SCULPTURE ARTIST TAMARA ROBERTSON EXHIBIT OPENING AT SAAC

The South Arkansas Arts Center welcomes Louisiana sculpture and installation artist Tamara Robertson and her exhibition "Peace by Piece" to the Merkle and Price Galleries October 12 – November 28. There will be an artist's reception on Saturday, October 14 from 6:00pm-7:00pm.  

 

ASMSA OPENS ADMISSIONS SEARCHES FOR CLASSES OF 2026 AND 2027

HOT SPRINGS — The Arkansas School for Mathematics, Sciences and the Arts has opened its search for the Classes of 2026 and 2027.

ASMSA is a public residential high school serving academically and artistically motivated students of all backgrounds from throughout the state of Arkansas. More than 250 students in 10^th, 11^th and 12^th grades attend classes and live on the Hot Springs campus in a community of learning unlike any other in the state.

 

The school was recently named the top public high school in Arkansas and among the top 50 in the nation by Niche.com, a website that provides in-depth profiles on thousands of colleges, school districts and individual K-12 schools across the nation. ASMSA was also named the best public high school for college prep as well as STEM education in the state.

 

“ASMSA provides an opportunity for families of high-achieving students all across Arkansas to choose a high school that best meets the needs of their student,” said Jason Hudnell, director of admissions.  “Our experienced and highly credentialed faculty coupled with a well-trained and innovative Student Life staff provide the resources and support needed to prepare all students for success. We are excited to open a new admissions cycle.”

 

ASMSA is an early college environment that combines the academic rigor, real-world research, creative opportunities as well as study abroad experiences of college with the supervision, safety, support systems and structure of high school.

 

All classes are taught on a college level, and the school offers 70 courses for college credit. Most students earn an average of 50 hours of college credit by the time they graduate with all students earning at least 30 hours — or a full year of credit. Since the inception of the school’s Global Learning Program, about 500 students have studied abroad.

 

“For more than three decades, ASMSA has helped lead the way for important discussions on school choice. Through the state’s support for the residential experience, students have access to world-class opportunities regardless of their ZIP code or family income,” Hudnell said.

Students apply to ASMSA through a competitive admissions process that evaluates high school coursework, ACT/SAT scores, responses to essay questions, recommendation forms and other accomplishments. Finalist candidates are invited to attend Interview Weekends in April. The process is similar to application at selective colleges and universities.

The rigorous applications process assists ASMSA in identifying for admission well-rounded young Arkansans who possess a strong sense of character, actively contribute to their communities and seek out the most challenging coursework available to them.

Students must submit their completed application packet no later than March 1, 2024. To learn more about ASMSA’s application process and the requirements for admission, visit asmsa.org/admissions, email admissions@asmsa.org or call or text 501.622.5235.

SAAC ANNOUNCES CAST FOR ONCE UPON A MATTRESS

Hear ye, hear ye! 

 

ARKANSAS RANKS SECOND IN NATION FOR PARENTAL EMPOWERMENT

LITTLE ROCK — Arkansas’ recent efforts to empower parents through the LEARNS Act earned the state a second-place ranking on the American Legislative Exchange Council’s 2023 ALEC Index of State Education Freedom: A 50-State Guide to Parental Empowerment report.

Arkansas, Florida, and Indiana are the only states in the nation to receive an A letter grade.

“Parental empowerment is a key component of Gov. Sanders’ LEARNS Act,” Arkansas Department of Education Secretary Jacob Oliva said. “We knew the LEARNS Act would result in progress, and the recent ranking from ALEC is evidence that we’re moving in the right direction. We are confident we’ll see similar outcomes in other categories in the future.”

To learn more about the report, visit https://alec.org/publication/the-alec-index-of-state-education-freedom-a-50-state-guide-to-parental-empowerment.

ATTORNEY GENERAL'S SPECIAL INVESTIGATIONS DIVISION

ARRESTS NORTH LITTLE ROCK MAN ON CHILD PORNOGRAPHY CHARGES

Griffin: ‘This sort of despicable victimization of children will not be tolerated’

LITTLE ROCK – Following the arrest Monday of Troy Moseley III, 24, of North Little Rock, Attorney General Tim Griffin issued the following statement:

“Special agents in my office’s Special Investigations Division made another arrest this week, charging Troy Moseley III of North Little Rock with 30 counts of distributing, possessing or viewing of matter depicting sexually explicit conduct involving a child. My office worked closely with the North Little Rock Police Department, the U.S. Marshals Service and the Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office to take him off the streets.

“I am grateful to the special agents in my office who led this investigation, as well as to our partner agencies for their invaluable support. This sort of despicable victimization of children will not be tolerated.”

Moseley was booked Monday into the Pulaski County Regional Detention Facility, where he is currently being held without bond.

 

BOOZMAN RECOGNIZED BY VETERAN SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS FOR ADVOCACY

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR), a leading voice in shaping veterans’ health care and benefits policies, was recently honored for his advocacy by a pair of Veteran Service Organizations.

 The Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) awarded Boozman its Congressional Leadership Award for his advocacy to strengthen earned support for the families of fallen servicemembers and veterans.

 “Senator John Boozman has been a longtime champion for Gold Star Families both in his home state of Arkansas and within the Halls of Congress. As a senior member of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, Senator Boozman joined Chairman Tester to re-introduce the Caring for Survivors Act of 2023. He continues to urge his Senate colleagues to pass this important legislation that will strengthen and expand DIC benefits for surviving spouses, and provide long overdue parity with other federal programs. We are proud to present Senator Boozman with the 2023 TAPS Congressional Leadership Award,” said Candace Wheeler, TAPS Director of Government and Legislative Affairs.

 The Blinded American Veterans Foundation also recognized Boozman for his leadership safeguarding veterans filing benefit claims with its George "Buck" Gillispie Congressional Award, honoring Members of Congress who have made significant contributions toward improving sensory-disabled veterans’ quality of life through public policy.

 “Senator Boozman’s bipartisan leadership efforts to safeguard veterans filing benefits with the GUARD VA Benefits Act will ensure that some of the nation’s most vulnerable veterans will have a trusted ally while filing for the benefits they have earned,” said BAV member Brian Donarski, Army (Ret).

 “As the son of a WWII veteran who served 23 years in the Air Force, I understand that military service is a family affair. We made a promise to veterans and their families and I’m proud to support policies to fulfill our nation’s commitment to these heroes. I look forward to continuing working with my colleagues and organizations veterans trust to advance legislation that strengthens the benefits servicemembers and their loved ones earned,” Boozman said.

 In addition to serving on the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, Boozman is the lead Republican on the appropriations subcommittee responsible for funding veterans benefits and services. This Congress he is also championing legislation to increase survivor benefits, support a comprehensive approach to address the veteran suicide crisis and strengthen oversight and quality of care at Department of Veterans Affairs medical centers. 

ARKANSAS DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION LAUNCHES NEW CUSTOMER SERVICE PORTAL, 'ASK ARDOT'

The Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) has launched a new customer service platform known as “Ask ARDOT.” 

 Ask ARDOT is a streamlined way for the public to submit questions and comments and communicate with ARDOT employees about topics pertaining to Arkansas’ highways and interstates – anything from construction project details to potholes to trucking permits to job applications.  

WESTERMAN STATEMENT ON THE CONTINUING APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2024 AND OTHER APPROPRIATIONS ACT

WASHINGTON - Today [September 30], Congressman Bruce Westerman (AR-04) released the passage of H.R. 5860, the Continuing Appropriations Act, 2024 and Other Appropriations Act:

"With just hours before a lapse in appropriations and a government shutdown, the House voted on a temporary spending bill to allow Congress 45 days to pass the remaining appropriations bills to fund our government through Fiscal Year 24.

"However, we had an opportunity on Friday to do the same thing, while also securing the border, cutting reckless government spending, and establishing a bicameral Fiscal Commission. Every single Democrat, and unfortunately, 21 Republicans voted against it. My priorities are very clear: I would rather secure the border than shut down the government.

"With the rejection of the conservative temporary spending and border security bill, Chuck Schumer began pushing a continuing resolution through the Senate that would not only have kept the government open, but would have given Biden $6 billion more Ukraine funding with no additional oversight.

"We have canceled our October district work period to remain in DC to debate and pass the appropriations bills in regular order. This will give us an opportunity to put conservative spending bills on the floor for a vote."

H.R. 5860 extends government funding for 45 days and: 

• Provides $16 billion in supplemental funding for disaster relief.
• Does not include $6 billion in supplemental funding for Ukraine.
• Extends key authorities and operations for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) through December 31, 2023.
• Extends the authorization and borrowing authority of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) through November 17, 2023.
• Continues Compacts of Free Association authorities through November 17, 2023.

STATE POLICE CID INVESTIGATING OFFICER-INVOLVED SHOOTING
September 28, 2023
Arkansas State Police’s Criminal Investigation Division is investigating an officer-involved shooting that occurred in Cross County just after 2 a.m. on Wednesday, September 27, 2023. A man and a woman connected to a violent felony in Etowah County, Alabama, fired on officers after evading law enforcement in a pursuit that crossed three counties.

One suspect died and the other was wounded in the incident.

Occupants of the vehicle were suspects in a shooting out of Hokes Bluff, AL. The suspects’ vehicle led law enforcement on a pursuit that began in Crittenden County, proceeded through a rural section of Poinsett County and entered Cross County, where spike strips were deployed on Highway 75.

Officers returned fire, striking suspects William Burchett, 54, and Tammi Naler, 47. Naler died of injuries sustained in the incident. Burchett, who is wanted in the Tuesday shooting of his mother in Hokes Bluff, AL, was transported St. Bernards Medical Center in Jonesboro.

Deputies from Crittenden, Poinsett and Cross counties were involved in the incident but were not injured. (No ASP Troopers were involved in the pursuit or the shooting.)

The deceased was transported to the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory, where manner and cause of death will be determined. The investigation is ongoing.

An investigative case file will be presented to the prosecuting attorney, who will determine whether the use of deadly force by officers was consistent with Arkansas law.
 

LITTLE ROCK CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU ANNOUNCES OCTOBER RIVER MARKET LIVE EVENTS
LRCVB's Live Music Series Gets Funky with Four Unique Acts
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (Sept. 29, 2023) — The Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau (LRCVB) announces the October lineup for River Market Live, the live, Thursday-night music series launched in the River Market District in August 2023. 

The four events scheduled for October feature a diverse lineup of outstanding local acts, including: 

October 5: Funkanites, an eight-piece ensemble based in Little Rock that will rock the River Market with a contemporary spin on late '60s and early '70's Afrobeat, soul and funk. With special guest: The International Council of Corvette Clubs (ICCC). Emcee: Ashley Crockett

October 12: Dazz & Brie, a woman-fronted, Emmy-nominated rock n' soul band that blends heavy rock instrumentation with heartfelt harmonies for a sound that will entice listeners of all ages. Emcee: Ashley Banks

October 19: Big John Miller Band, the long-running Arkansas-based act that has been a staple of the local music scene for over 30 years, thanks to original tunes and unique covers of old favorites that artfully blend soul, jazz, blues, funk and rock. Emcee: Kristin Veasey-Knox 

October 26: Little Rock native Bijoux, a one-of-a-kind vocalist who weaves her unique style from the music she heard growing up as the daughter of West African parents, including classic rock and roll, folk, county, R&B and makossa, a funk-influenced genre that originated in Cameroon. LRCVB encourages attendees to wear pink for a "Pink Out" to raise awareness for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Emcee: Ally Washington  

Events will take place every Thursday evening from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM in the River Market outdoor pavilions located at 400 President Clinton Avenue. 

“Now that the weather is getting cooler, we're so excited to bring these hot acts to River Market Live,” said Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau President & CEO Gina Gemberling. “The music scene here in Central Arkansas is so diverse, and we're proud to showcase that diversity in the heart of our city, the River Market District. The artists on deck for October truly feature something for every taste and every listener."    

The River Market Live series launched in August, is open to the public, and admission is free. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase on-site. Attendees are encouraged to support Little Rock restaurants before and after each event. Chairs will be provided, but people can bring their own. River Market Live is pet friendly.

River Market Live is a continuation of the LRCVB’s Big on Little Rock commitment of building local pride in Arkansas’s capital city by showcasing and celebrating its people and its amenities, including restaurants, attractions, entertainment venues, lodging options, retail shops and more. For more information about River M ket Live, please visit here.

STATE CAPITOL WEEK IN REVIEW FROM SENATOR MATT STONE
September 29, 2023
LITTLE ROCK – The state Transportation Department has written a plan to reduce carbon emissions by improving traffic flow and connecting highways more efficiently with railroad terminals and ports.

The department is due to receive $87 million from the federal government, between now and 2026, for projects that reduce carbon emissions.

According to federal studies, 26.6 percent of the carbon emissions in Arkansas come from transportation.

Trucks represent 4 percent of the registered vehicles in Arkansas, but large and mid-size trucks account for more than 4 percent of emissions for a couple of reasons. First, passenger car engines emit less carbon than heavy truck engines.

Secondly, a lot of the truck traffic in Arkansas was not counted in the energy study because they aren’t registered in Arkansas, but instead drive across the state on pass-through trips. Sections of Interstate 40 and Interstate 30 carry more than 20,000 trucks every day.

More than 2.1 million passenger vehicles are registered in Arkansas. In a typical year, Arkansas drivers are on the road less than the national average. Arkansas drivers average 26.6 miles a day, compared to 36.1 miles a day driven by the average American.

It stands to reason that if cars and trucks are stalled on the highway, the pollution they emit is greater than if they travel more quickly to their destination. That’s why the Department of Transportation will use some of the federal funding on traffic congestion and management.

For example, when a contractor wins a bid on a highway project, the Department uses a variety of techniques to minimize congestion in work zones.

If an accident is blocking lanes the Department can set up portable signs to alert drivers, so they have time to exit to another road and detour around the blockage.

In partnership with the State Police, the Transportation Department has trained 10,000 first responders to coordinate their duties at the site of an accident to clear the highway as quickly as possible. In 1,800 crashes that occurred in the first quarter of 2023, the median duration of lane blockage was 47 minutes.

Under state law, if you’re in a traffic accident in which there are no injuries, you’re expected to move your vehicle off the roadway. Removing your vehicle does not mean you are admitting liability, and it does not constitute a waiver of your rights to file a claim for personal injury.

Moving freight is an essential part of the Arkansas economy, and 18-wheelers move the bulk of it. Last year trucks moved 360 million tons of freight in Arkansas, compared to railroads moving 160 million tons and eight million tons being moved by waterway.

However, trains and barges are more efficient than trucks, in terms of the amount of air pollution they create. One barge can carry the tonnage of 16 train cars and 70 truck trailers. The Department can stimulate competition and lower carbon emissions at the same time, by improving connections between highways, train terminals and ports along waterways.

Other projects include expansion of bicycle and pedestrian paths, and building more roundabouts that eliminate waiting at red lights. Electronic vehicles are gaining market share, so the Department is developing plans to install charging stations along high-use corridors.

BOOZMAN SHARES SERVICE MEMORIES OF ARKANSAS WWII VETERAN ON 100TH BIRTHDAY
WASHINGTON- U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) recognized the service of Robert “Bob” Beaty in ‘Salute to Veterans,’ a series highlighting the military service of Arkansans, as Beaty celebrates his 100th birthday.

Beaty was born on September 29, 1923 and raised in Kansas City, Missouri. He grew up in a busy home with seven brothers and one sister. After graduating high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy on June 2, 1941, following in the footsteps of three of his brothers who were also serving in the military. Beaty said he chose the Navy so he could travel.

He rode on a train from Kansas City to Great Lakes, Illinois for basic training where he stayed for three weeks before additional training at the naval armory in Toledo, Ohio. It was there he learned morse code and flag signaling. “For visual training,” he said. “Learning how to visually communicate between ships.” While at the naval armory, Beaty contracted scarlet fever and was quarantined on a hospital ship for three weeks.

He completed his training in Chicago and said the Navy let him choose whether he wanted to be stationed on the West Coast or the East Coast. He selected the West Coast so he could see his family on the way to his duty station, Treasure Island, San Francisco. 

Although he had never been so far from home, Beaty said the ocean and Navy life suited him well. “I just liked the ocean,” he said about his adjustment to the new environment.

His first trip was as a signalman on the U.S.S. Calmar which carried mostly Coast Guard personnel and three total Navy members. “It was a Merchant Marine ship,” he said. “They were hauling war supplies to different parts of the world.” 

The Calmar took him all over the world, from Australia to New York. He was at sea and in foreign ports for months at a time, but in between assignments would take 30 days of leave to see his family.

Beaty said the ships he was assigned to usually traveled without military escort, even though they might be carrying weapons or bombs. “I never really thought about it, traveling with 6,000 tons of explosives,” he recounted.

Beaty said at one point he joined the crew of a modern ship that delivered supplies to locations including New Caledonia, an island in the South Pacific. 

On that trip the ship ran aground on a submerged reef and the crew was forced to abandon ship. Within a few days a battleship arrived to pull it off of the reef, but the crew had to stay on the island until another ship could pick them up. The journey finally ended in San Francisco where he was assigned to yet another ship transporting unrefined salt to Australia, Egypt and Sudan.

Beaty said he really enjoyed visiting different countries, finding unique souvenirs and eating the local foods. He recalled one stop when a shipmate wanted to find ivory. While they never found any, they traded a pocket knife for a different luxury. An islander “stopped at a banana tree, cut us off a bunch of bananas and told us ‘Take these back to the ship, sprinkle a little salt at the end where you cut ’em off and it’ll ripen faster.’ And I didn’t have anything to give him, so I gave the boy my pocket knife.”

Beaty maintains traveling was the best part of his service. He was discharged on October 30, 1945, and went home to Kansas City. He was married the following July to his wife Rosie, who had been his pen pal during the war.  

After his service, Beaty used the GI Bill to study chemistry at the University of Missouri in Kansas City for two years. He recalls the university being very crowded with other veterans taking advantage of their education benefits as well. From there, he used his chemistry knowledge to work for several different companies throughout his career, including one doing contract work for the Atomic Energy Commission.

Looking back on his service, Beaty says he was so young at the time that he didn’t fully appreciate the opportunities he had, but he believes military service is good for most young people because it “will help them grow up.”

Today, Beaty calls Bella Vista home.

“Robert Beaty served his county honorably. I am proud to recognizing him on his 100th birthday for his selfless dedication. Preserving his memories of service for future generations to learn about his sacrifice is a great way to honor him,” Boozman said.

This week, Boozman submitted Beaty’s entire interview to the Veterans History Project, an initiative of the Library of Congress’s American Folklife Center to collect and retain the oral histories of our nation’s veterans.

SCHOOL LETTER GRADES HOLD STEADY OR IMPROVE IN 2023
86.9 Percent of Schools Earned the Same Letter Grade or Higher
LITTLE ROCK – According to the accountability reports released today by the Arkansas Department of Education, 86.9 percent of schools earned the same letter grade or a higher grade in 2023. Letter grades reflect a school’s overall performance.

Compared to 2022, 72.4 percent (728 schools) earned the same grade, with 14.5 percent (148 schools) earning a higher grade. A total of 144 schools (14.1 percent) earned a lower grade. 

“The letter grades are of significant importance to families, as they serve as an easy-to-understand metric for how schools are performing,” ADE Secretary Jacob Oliva said. “While we are pleased that a majority of schools’ grades held steady or improved, we still have a lot of work ahead to ensure all students are reading on grade level and are prepared for college, career, and life. We are confident that the implementation of LEARNS will bring improved results this next school year.”

Letter grades are part of the state accountability reports. With the exception of letter grades in the state report, both the state and federal reports mirror each other in many ways and include data about student achievement and growth, graduation rates, and other indicators that measure student learning.

The reports, which are available on the department’s My School Info website https://myschoolinfo.arkansas.gov/, reflect trend data for multiple years, as well as data for student subgroups. To learn more about how to access the reports for each school, visit the 2023 ESSA School Index Public Release video at bit.ly/2023ESSASchoolIndex. Also, to see schools highlighted in this year's Schools on the Move campaign, visit https://dese.link/schools-on-the-move.

 

ELECTRIC VEHICLE INFRASTRUCTURE DEPLOYMENT PROGRAM REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
 September 27, 2023

The Arkansas Highway Commission is pleased to announce the issuance of the Request for Proposals for the Arkansas Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Deployment (EVID) Program. 

Proposals must be submitted at ardot.gov/nevi by November 27 at 4 p.m., Central Standard Time for funding consideration.

Virtual information sessions will occur on October 9 and 17 to inform potential eligible proposers of EVID requirements and responsibilities. Registration information for the sessions can be found at the web addresses listed below. 

The National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program is a $5 billion program established by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, funded through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration, to build a national network of 500,000 electric vehicle (EV) charging stations by 2030 along federally designated Alternative Fuel Corridors.  NEVI will provide funding to state governments through Federal Fiscal Year 2026 to strategically deploy Electric Vehicle charging station infrastructure and increase access to charging stations for the public to travel across the country in EVs.

General program guidelines may be obtained by visiting ardot.gov/nevi.

BOOZMAN, BOOKER LEAD MEASURE TO ENHANCE SUICIDE PREVENTION EFFORTS FOR COLLEGE ATHLETES
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Cory Booker (D-NJ) are championing enhancements to mental health services for college athletes by introducing legislation that would expand access to a federal grant aimed at campus suicide prevention.

The Targeting Emotional Mental Stability (TEAMS) Act would allow school-based initiatives supporting the mental health needs of college athletes to be eligible for the Garrett Lee Smith (GLS) Campus Suicide Prevention Grant Program. This grant targets mental health services at college students, including those at risk for suicide, depression, serious mental illness/serious emotional disturbances and/or substance use disorders that can lead to school failure.

“Collegiate athletics are incredibly demanding on student-athletes and create a unique pressure unfamiliar to most of their classmates. The TEAMS Act will improve access to resources and support their mental health needs as they navigate school, sports and other aspects of life. I’m proud to lead this initiative so we can help these competitors succeed on and off the field,” Boozman said.

“As a former college athlete, I know the immense stress and demands our college athletes face to excel both in sports and academics,” said Booker. “It is crucial that our college athletes have the mental health resources and care they need to succeed in all aspects of their lives on and off the field. This legislation will provide more access to mental health resources to provide the necessary support our college athletes need for their health and well-being.”

There is a growing need for innovative mental health programming and services for college athletes. A National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) survey found that student-athletes continue to report elevated levels of mental health concerns, with increased rates of mental exhaustion, anxiety and feelings of being depressed. Its research also discovered that less than half of student-athletes felt comfortable seeking mental health support from professionals on campus. 

Boozman and Booker are both former college football players at the University of Arkansas and Stanford University, respectively.

The TEAMS Act would allow for GLS Grant Program funding to be used in the creation of school-based mental health programs such as:
Mental health care services
Peer-to-peer counseling
24/7 crisis lines
Training for students and staff on how to respond to students exhibiting signs of mental distress
Campus-wide measures to address the stigma associated with seeking help 

Schools awarded funds under the grant program would be required to include a letter of support from athletic departments to ensure they are involved in the application process and the proposed activities benefit the athletes. 

The legislation is cosponsored by Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Roger Wicker (R-MS).

The TEAMS Act is endorsed by the following organizations: Colton Underwood Legacy Foundation, National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), the Southeastern Conference (SEC), Morgan’s Message, National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), Arkansas Hospital Association, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), Mental Health America (MHA), American Psychiatric Association (APA), American Psychological Association (APA), RADical Hope, Athletes For Hope, Katie’s Save, Sarah Schulze Foundation, Hilinski's Hope and Madison Holleran Foundation.

“As a former college athlete, I saw firsthand the immense pressure college athletes feel to perform – across both men’s and women’s athletics. Despite struggling with anxiety and depression, it took me years to seek help,” said Colton Underwood, former NFL player and founder of the Colton Underwood Legacy Foundation. “In many cases, national attention adds to the stress of balancing life as a full-time student and athlete, and colleges and universities must have a game plan for supporting the mental health needs of this population. The Legacy Foundation is grateful for Senators Boozman and Booker’s partnership in supporting the TEAMS Act. We are excited to continue working with our congressional champions to get this critical legislation across the finish line.”

“We applaud Senators Boozman and Booker for taking this much-needed bipartisan step forward for a safer mental health environment for athletes on college campuses,” said Dona F. Rodgers, co-founder and chairperson of Morgan's Message, a mental health non-profit organization established in the aftermath of her daughter's tragic death by suicide in July 2019. “With the support of school administrators, the NCAA and leading mental health organizations around the country, this legislation will help to ensure mental health programs and services are readily available to students when they are most needed.”

“Our youth are in a mental health crisis, and we see this impact our student-athletes far too often. We have to do more. The TEAMS Act will help ensure that these students receive the mental health support they need, when they need it,” said Hannah Wesolowski, Chief Advocacy Officer of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). “NAMI is proud to support the TEAMS Act and grateful to Senators Boozman and Booker for leading efforts to improve student-athlete mental health.”

“Young people today face overwhelming threats to their mental health, and college athletes face additional stresses,” said Mental Health America Chief Public Policy Officer Mary Giliberti. “The increased pressures from peers, college communities, family, and social media can affect mental health despite the benefits of being a student-athlete. Mental Health America commends the TEAMS Act, which will take a comprehensive approach to reducing stigma and providing help through services including peer-to-peer counseling.”

“Student and college athletes face unique challenges to their mental health as they balance the demands of academic studies and the high pressures of their sports,” said Laurel Stine, J.D., M.A., Executive Vice President and Chief Policy Officer at the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. “According to a recent NCAA survey, student-athletes have been reporting high levels of mental exhaustion, anxiety, and feelings of depression since 2020. The TEAMS Act would ensure that grant funding is available for colleges and universities to create and implement innovative school-based programs to address the specific mental health needs of these athletes. AFSP is grateful to Senator Boozman and Senator Booker for leading this important legislation.”

“The American Psychological Association commends Senators Boozman and Booker for their work on introducing the Targeting Emotional and Mental Stability (TEAMS) Act, which recognizes the unique pressures faced by college student-athletes that can often lead to mental health conditions, such as stress, anxiety, depression, or suicidality,” said Arthur C. Evans Jr., PhD, CEO of the American Psychological Association. “By ensuring that the Garrett Lee Smith Campus Suicide Prevention Grant—the only federal program dedicated to addressing college student mental health—specifically applies to student-athletes, this bipartisan legislation will help colleges and universities meet the mental health needs of athletes on their campuses.”

“College athletes face unique mental health challenges as they balance the demands of a postsecondary course load and competitive sports schedule,” said American Psychiatric Association CEO and Medical Director Saul Levin, M.D., M.P.A. “We applaud Senators Boozman and Booker for introducing the TEAMS Act, which would provide much needed targeted mental health programs and resources, including suicide prevention and behavioral health treatment, to college athletes.”

“There are over half a million student-athletes on college campuses across the country. We commend the leadership of Senators Boozman and Booker for recognizing our responsibility to support the mental as well as physical health of these young adults” said Liz Feld, CEO of RADical Hope. “Student-athletes express feelings of isolation and ‘silent suffering,’ fueled by an apprehension to show weakness or sadness. Through our program work, we know the power of peer-to-peer support in strengthening connections and building resilience. This legislation promotes resources and programs that can improve and save lives now.”

“While Arkansas hospitals are best known for the acute care they provide, they also embrace and promote endeavors that keep Arkansans healthy and thriving. Improving access to mental health resources for student-athletes is critical to supporting the unique challenges these competitors experience. The TEAMS Act will lead to higher achievements on and off the field. We appreciate Senator Boozman's leadership in proposing and advancing solutions that promote positive mental health outcomes for Arkansans,” said Arkansas Hospital Association President/CEO Bo Ryall.

MAN CHARGED IN APRIL DEATH OF 84-YEAR-OLD BACK IN CUSTODY AFTER BOND REVOKED
September 26, 2023
Darmel Dashun Batemon Jr., 20, of North Little Rock was arrested today for possession of a firearm and possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance. At the time of his arrest, Arkansas State Police also served Batemon with a bond revocation warrant issued by the Pulaski County Prosecutor earlier in the day.

Batemon was driving a Dodge Charger at about 2:30 p.m. on Interstate 30 near the Geyer Springs exit when law enforcement stopped him because the vehicle he was driving was the subject of an intelligence bulletin out of Oklahoma.

On September 13, ASP charged Batemon with manslaughter and second-degree battery, both felony offenses, in connection with a fatality wreck that occurred in Little Rock on April 8th. Three days later, Batemon and seven other Arkansas men were arrested on gun and drug charges in downtown Tulsa.

Police found ten firearms including Draco 7.62 pistols, two AR pistols, three pistols, one .22 UZI, and some body armor, according to the arrest and booking report.

Gerald Stuart Allen, 84, of Benton died in the April wreck and his wife, Lucille “Lucy” Kiser Allen, was seriously injured.

ASP investigators say Batemon and another motorist were racing on I-430 North on that Saturday afternoon when the fatality accident occurred near the 4-mile marker. 

Batemon was driving a 2012 Dodge Charger when he struck the Allen’s 2015 Toyota Avalon from the rear, forcing the vehicle off the roadway, where it struck a tree. Batemon was also injured.

“The Arkansas State Police will not forget Mr. Allen, and we will continue the fight to get justice for his family,” said ASP Colonel Mike Hagar. “We will again remind the public that racing and driving at high rates of speed endanger everyone on the road.”

Mr. Allen was an Arkansas Army National Guard veteran, serving as Commander of the 39th Support Battalion of the 39th Infantry Brigade. He retired with the rank of Colonel in 1986.

Mr. Allen’s obituary said, “The family asks that you consider contacting your state representative and requesting stronger penalties for those who are caught street racing on public roadways so that such senseless and tragic deaths and injuries may be prevented.”

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that in the past decade alone 800 people have lost their lives in incidents related to street races.
 

2023 RURAL FIRE SHOW TO BE HELD ON OCTOBER 7
LITTLE ROCK, AR – The Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Forestry Division and the Arkansas Rural and Volunteer Firefighters Association (ARVFA) will host the 2023 Rural Fire Show on Saturday, October 7. The event will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Conway Expo and Event Center.

The Rural Fire Show is a free event held in appreciation for Arkansas firefighters and their families to honor the service and protection they provide throughout the state. The event will include training opportunities, equipment demonstrations, resources and information, networking opportunities, and a catered lunch with door prizes.

“We have more than 850 rural fire departments that partner with the Forestry Division when we fight wildland fires,” said State Forester Kyle Cunningham. “We are proud to host this annual event with ARVFA to show our appreciation for those firefighters and their families.”

All firefighters are welcome to participate. Interested individuals can RSVP by emailing Lisa Clark at lisa.k.clark@agriculture.arkansas.gov. Learn more about the Forestry Division’s Rural Fire Protection Program at agriculture.arkansas.gov/forestry/rural-fire-protection-program/.

The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies and programs for Arkansas agriculture, forestry, and natural resources to keep its farmers and ranchers competitive in national and international markets while conserving natural resources and ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation. Visit agriculture.arkansas.gov/. The Arkansas Department of Agriculture offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
 

BOOZMAN SUBMITS ARKANSAS VETERANS’ MEMORIES OF SERVICE IN UNIFORM FOR PRESERVATION AT LIBRARY OF CONGRESS
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR), a longtime advocate of the Library of Congress Veterans History Project (VHP), hand-delivered interviews of Arkansas veterans for preservation in the collection to VHP Director Monica Mohindra.

Boozman submitted 14 interviews conducted by his staff with veterans of WWII, Korean and Vietnam wars as well as Operations Desert Storm and Desert Shield.

“The Veterans History Project is a unique collection that celebrates the service and sacrifice of the men and women who wore our nation’s uniform. We need to remember our history, and getting firsthand accounts is one of the best ways to help do that. My dad, who was a waist gunner on B-17s in World War II and served 23 years in the Air Force, didn’t often talk of his experiences during the war and I wish I had asked more about that time in his life. My office is working to make sure that other families don’t have this same regret. I’m proud to support this endeavor and submit the interviews of Arkansas veterans for the benefit of future generations,” Boozman said.

In 2000, Congress established the VHP to collect and retain the oral histories of our nation’s veterans.

Boozman’s staff has conducted dozens of interviews and trained more than 1,200 Arkansans to participate and spread awareness about this initiative. The senator regularly highlights the conversations in ‘Salute to Veterans,’ a  series highlighting the memories of their time in uniform. 

PURSUIT ENDS IN SUSPECT FATALITY
September 25, 2023
At approximately 9:20 p.m. on Sunday, September 24, 2023, an Arkansas State Police(ASP) Trooper executed a Tactical Vehicle Intervention (TVI) maneuver to stop a fleeing suspect at the Stanton Road overpass of Interstate 30 East.

The fleeing suspect, driving a 2006 BMW with fictitious tags, died from injuries he sustained in the incident.

The suspect was initially driving at excessive speeds westbound on I-30 when he failed to pull over for the Trooper. The motorist exited the interstate at Geyer Springs Road and drove through two red lights before getting back on I-30 going eastbound. The vehicle accelerated, exceeding 120 mph, and nearly collided with another motorist.

The suspect’s identity has not yet been confirmed. An FN Five-seven semi-automatic pistol was located in the vehicle.

“Fleeing from law enforcement is reckless and has serious consequences,” said ASP Colonel Mike Hagar. “Although we regret any loss of life, ASP Troopers put the lives of innocent motorists first.”

The incident is under investigation by ASP’s Criminal Investigation Division.

CAPITOL ART DISPLAY SPONSORED BY CONSULATE OF PERU
Exhibit will be up through November 1st
(LITTLE ROCK, ARK.) – Arkansas Secretary of State John Thurston welcomes visitors to the State Capitol to view a new temporary art display in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month.

The exhibit, Mochica Sacred Universe, features art by Roxana Rivero, focusing on the ancestral culture of the Moche civilization in the northern coastal region of Peru, near present-day Trujillo, Peru. The artist uses iconography from the site of the Lady of Cao, which archaeologists discovered in 2006. Also on display will be examples of ceremonial pre-Columbian indigenous pottery.

"We have many tourists and school children come through the State Capitol from all sorts of backgrounds and our exhibit galleries add an important educational component to their visit," said Secretary Thurston. "I am pleased that we can host this exhibit combining art, history and culture for Hispanic Heritage Month." 

The exhibit was coordinated by the Consulate of Peru in Dallas,Texas, which serves north Texas, Kansas, Arkansas and Oklahoma.

 

COTTON, SHAHEEN LAUD UNANIMOUS SENATE PASSAGE OF NATIONAL WARRIOR CALL DAY
Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) and Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-New Hampshire) announced their resolution to designate November 12, 2023, as “National Warrior Call Day” passed the Senate unanimously.

The lawmakers want to emphasize forming meaningful relationships with both those currently serving and veterans. Such relationships can help fight against mental illness and the epidemic of suicide among military members.

“Americans can never fully pay back those who serve in defense of America. We can, however, make sure that active military members and veterans have access to the support they need after serving to lead active and healthy lives. This bipartisan resolution will raise awareness on the importance of building relationships with those who defend our freedom,” said Senator Cotton.

“Those who have taken the oath to defend our country deserve our appreciation and support long after their service ends. I’m glad the Senate passed my bipartisan resolution that, if signed into law, would designate a National Warrior Call Day to help raise awareness and strengthen the relationship between veterans and civilians,” said Senator Shaheen.  

Cosponsors of the legislation were Senators John Boozman (R-Arkansas), Bob Casey (D-Pennsylvania), Elizabeth Warren (D-Massachusetts), Peter Welch (D-Vermont), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minnesota), John Thune (R-South Dakota), Mark Kelly (D-Arizona), John Hickenlooper (D-Colorado), John Fetterman (D-Pennsylvania), John Tester (D-Montana), Jackie Rosen (D-Nevada), James Risch (R-Idaho), John Hoeven (R-North Dakota), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Mississippi), Rick Scott (R-Florida), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Shelley Moore Capito (R-West Virginia), Eric Schmitt (R-Missouri), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), Richard Blumenthal (D-Connecticut), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-Rhode Island), Senator Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Marco Rubio (R-Florida), Michael Bennet (D-Colorado), Angus King (I-Maine), Raphael Warnock (D-Georgia), Joe Manchin (D-West Virginia), Tim Kaine (D-Virginia), Pete Ricketts (R-Nebraska), Bill Cassidy (R-Louisiana), Mark Warner (D-Virginia), Chris Van Hollen (D-Maryland), Jon Ossoff (D-Georgia) and Ed Markey (D-Massachusetts).

CAMDEN FAIRVIEW BOARD OF EDUCATION TO  MEET TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2023
The Camden Fairview Board Of Education will meet in regular session on Tuesday, September 26, 2023 at 6:30 p.m. at Garrison Auditorium. The agenda is as followe:

Call to order

Student Hearing

Approval of minutes of previous meetings

Unfinished Business
None

New Business
Presentation and recommendation regarding the School Resource Officers Agreement.
Presentation and recommendation regarding the 2023/2024 Camden Fairview School District budget.
Presentation and recommendation regarding facility rental policy.
Presentation and recommendation regarding Jim Golden Ford-Lincoln resolution.
Presentation and recommendation regarding Statement of Assurance for Programs under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965, as Amended by the Every Student Succeeds Act.
Resolutions honoring George Branch and Tommy Raines.
Facility Rentals
Student data and performance presentation- Tara Armstrong
Superintendent’s report to the Board
Financial report
Personnel
Hiring
Termination

 

CADC ANNOUNCES CLOSING OF 2023 SUMMER LIHEAP UTILITY ASSISTANCE
Benton – Central Arkansas Development Council (CADC) announced today the 2023 Summer LIHEAP Utility Assistance Program will end on September 29, 2023.For more information relating to CADC’s utility assistance program visit: https://www.cadc.com/utility-assistance CADC is a nonprofit Community Action Agency, an equal opportunity employer, and a United Way Agency. The mission of CADC is to alleviate the causes and conditions of poverty, to help vulnerable populations achieve their potential, and to build strong communities in Arkansas through community action.

STATE CAPITOL WEEK IN REVIEW FROM SENATOR MATT STONE
September 22, 2023
LITTLE ROCK – Even though Arkansas has taken major steps to improve foster care over the past several years, the Division of Children and Family Services intends to do even better at recruiting foster families and providing services to children at a younger age.

The division staff worked with educators, law enforcement, mental health professionals and non-profit organizations on a list of recommendations to better protect vulnerable children and strengthen families during times of crisis.

Children are placed in foster care for many reasons, and the most common ( 52 percent) is neglect by parents. Substance abuse by parents or guardians (48 percent) is the second most common reason, followed by the incarceration of a parent (20 percent), physical abuse (16 percent) and inadequate housing (12 percent).

The state offers services to families in trouble, but the goal of services tends to be correcting bad behavior, treating a mental health crisis or reacting to a traumatic event by placing the affected children in foster care. According to a report sent to the governor, “there are currently few available services for primary prevention of child abuse in Arkansas.

One way to prevent abuse is to make sure that families know what is available. For example, Access Arkansas is a web site that links to all kinds of services, such as help with child care, job training, Medicaid, food stamps and welfare. However, according to the report, “the vast majority of professionals and families are not aware of this one-stop shop for applying for public assistance…”

Families who need social services often lack Internet capacity and technical expertise. For that reason the working group recommended more local programs to provide “a human component to help them navigate and access resources.” that help with housing, legal issues, parenting, education and employment.

The work group was established by executive order of the governor. She said that Arkansas is the most pro-life state in the country “but the pro-life agenda doesn’t end when a child is born.”

In an average month there are 4,100 children in foster care in Arkansas, living in about 1,600 homes. The Division will continue working with Every Child Arkansas, a group of organizations that recruits foster families. In particular, they will try to recruit families willing to take in youths between 10 and 17.

Turnover among foster families is high. For example, last year 1,145 foster families were recruited but 989 foster families left. Screening and training families takes time and resources, so the turnover is a burden to Division staff that is already under intense pressure.

Turnover among family case workers is staggering. Last year it was 71 percent for all workers and for program assistants the turnover rate was 90 percent, although about a fourth of that turnover was due to assistants being promoted.

Turnover among supervisors was 34 percent. A survey indicated that front line staff worked under an average of 1.7 supervisors last year. Some worked for as many as 11 different supervisors.

Most supervisors work more than 40 hours a week and do not get paid overtime.

High turnover and dissatisfaction among staff “ultimately affects the families within the child welfare system,” the working group reported. It recommended an evaluation of salaries and reforms to improve retention of staff.

 

BOOZMAN PRESSES VA OFFICIALS ON IMPLEMENTATION OF SUICIDE PREVENTION PROGRAM SENATOR CHAMPIONED
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR), a senior member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, is overseeing the implementation and execution of a Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) program he championed to prevent and reduce veteran suicides. 

Boozman authored the Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program, which was included in comprehensive veterans mental health legislation that was signed into law in 2020. The VA grant program leverages and supports veteran-serving nonprofits and other community networks in order to reduce and prevent veteran suicides. The first grants were awarded in September 2022.

“We all know that suicide is really complex. It’s a complicated crisis. There is no single solution. We also know that if people are in the VA system, they’re less likely to commit suicide,” Boozman said in the committee hearing Wednesday. “One of the things that we’ve worked on is to make it such to capture those folks that are outside of the system, get them some help in the community and then ultimately bring them into the VA where they can get additional help.”

VA officials recommended updating the way grantees ask questions to veterans so that they may have the most flexibility possible to serve those who come to their organizations for help.

Boozman’s commitment to addressing the veteran suicide crisis has continued this Congress with the introduction of the Not Just A Number Act, legislation to ensure the VA is looking at a range of factors to help save the lives of veterans experiencing mental health challenges and make better data-driven policy decisions which can translate into real-world success preventing suicide.
 

WESTERMAN AND HIGGINS INTRODUCE LEGISLATION TO PROTECT AMERICAN TIRE MANUFACTURERS
WASHINGTON - Today, Reps. Bruce Westerman (AR-04) and Brian Higgins (NY-26) announced the introduction of the Protect American Tire Workers Act (H.R. 5593). The bipartisan bill makes critical updates to the Generalized System Preference (GSP) trade program to protect American tire producers like Sumitomo, Goodyear, Yokohama, Bridgestone, Titan Tire, and Kumho by excluding certain tire products from the program, to prevent imports from flooding the domestic market.

“The GSP is the largest and oldest U.S. trade preference program. Unfortunately, some countries have chosen to abuse the program to illegally dump their tire products on the market. I’m proud to introduce this common-sense legislation alongside Congressman Brian Higgins to correct this disparity and exempt certain tire products from the GSP, ensuring a more level playing field in the domestic market for our local manufacturers, like the Texarkana Goodyear facility in the 4th District,” said Congressman Westerman.

“GSP was put in place to promote economic growth in developing countries, while supporting trade priorities that benefit our own economy, but outdated rules are putting American tire manufacturers at risk,” said Congressman Higgins. “However, it is in desperate need of an update, as some countries in this long-standing trade preference program are saturating the market with tire products, which hurts local manufacturers like Sumitomo in Western New York. I am proud to join Congressman Westerman in introducing this bipartisan bill. It is an important step in protecting union workers and strengthening our trade programs in a way that helps our economy continue to grow.”

Background:

Established by the Trade Act of 1974, the GSP program promotes economic development in developing countries by eliminating duties on thousands of products imported from 119 designated countries and territories. However, the program is since expired and is in need of critical updates to ensure that it remains aligned with US trade goals, including the promotion of fair labor practices, sound environmental policy, and human rights across the world. 

Under the GSP program there has been a significant increase in tire imports. According to the United Steel Workers (USW), the largest union in tire manufacturing, volumes of tire-related imports increased by nearly 30 percent between 2016 and 2019. In 2019 import volumes totaled $462,672,880. This increase is competing directly against US manufacturers, undercutting domestic profitability, and impacting employment among USW workers at tire production plants across the country.

The Protect American Tire Workers Act would update the GSP program to add tire articles to the import-sensitive list, making the products ineligible for the program and discouraging countries from illegally flooding the market.

Some GSP countries are now the sites of tire plants built as part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative, such as Serbia. Additionally, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Thailand represent significant tire import volumes under the GSP program – all of which have well-documented labor and environmental abuses.

The Protect American Tire Workers Act adds another layer of protection against threats to domestic tire manufacturers. Reps. Higgins and Westerman have worked with USW to take the threat of increased dumping and subsidized tire imports seriously. USW has supported several successful anti-dumping and countervailing (AD/CVD) petitions against China and India. Current petitions against Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam are expected conclude in June or July of this year. Successful petitions and investigations have revealed that these illegal practices have lowered domestic sales, reducing hours and decreasing employment in the industry.

GOVERNOR SANDERS AUTHORIZES DEPLOYMENT OF ARKANSAS WILDLAND FIREFIGHTERS TO ASSIST LOUISIANA
LITTLE ROCK, AR – Governor Sanders has authorized a crew of six wildland firefighters from the Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Forestry Division to assist the State of Louisiana with their ongoing wildfire suppression efforts. Approximately 40,000 acres of wildland fire have impacted the State of Louisiana and a third of the state continues to experience extreme drought conditions.

Forestry Division employees are being mobilized as part of the South Central Interstate Forest Fire Protection Compact. The compact enables participating state forestry agencies to send wildland firefighting resources and personnel across state lines to assist with wildfire suppression.

The six-person crew will assist with the Tiger Island Fire for a two-week period beginning September 20. The primary role of the crew will be to check and maintain existing firebreaks. The Forestry Division will also send trucks and ATVs with water tanks to assist with the wildfire response efforts.

Governor Sanders previously authorized the Arkansas Department of Agriculture to send a Division Supervisor to supervise several fire suppression crews assigned to the Tiger Island Fire in Louisiana from September 8 to 23. The Tiger Island Fire is under the jurisdiction of the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry. For more information on the fire, visit inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident-information/lalas-tiger-island-fire.

Governor Sanders authorized two UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters from the Arkansas National Guard’s 77th Theater Aviation Brigade to assist the Louisiana National Guard’s wildfire suppression efforts from August 31 to September 7.

Similarly, the Governor has also previously authorized a four-person crew from the Arkansas Department of Agriculture Forestry Division to deploy to Oregon from August 7 to 27 to assist with wildfire suppression in the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest.

The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies and programs for Arkansas agriculture, forestry, and natural resources to keep its farmers and ranchers competitive in national and international markets while conserving natural resources and ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation. Visit agriculture.arkansas.gov/. The Arkansas Department of Agriculture offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
 

COTTON: NO IRANIAN AGENT RELEASED IN RANSOM DEAL SHOULD STAY IN AMERICA
Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) sent a letter today to Secretary of State Antony Blinken requesting information about the Biden administration’s $6 billion payment to Iran, as well as the release of five Iranian agents.

The letter notes that at least two of the Iranian agents reportedly plan to stay in the United States and urges Secretary Blinken to reverse the deal. Failing that, the secretary should ensure no Iranian agents remain in America.

Text of the letter may be found below.

September 18, 2023

The Honorable Antony Blinken
Secretary
U.S. Department of State
2201 C Street, NW
Washington, DC 20520

Dear Secretary Blinken,  

On the 22nd anniversary of the September 11 attacks, you approved a $6 billion ransom payment to Iran, as well as the release of five Iranian agents.

According to public news reports, your deal will also allow at least two of those Iranian agents to remain in the United States. One of them, Kaveh Afrasiabi, had been arrested for his work as an unregistered Iranian government operative and lobbied American officials on issues as sensitive as nuclear policy. It seems clear where his loyalties lie.

You should reverse your September 11 deal, which encourages Iran to take more hostages and gifts the regime billions of dollars. If the deal isn’t reversed, you should at a minimum remove all Iranian agents from American soil.

Please answer the following questions no later than 5:00PM on Friday, September 22, 2023:

(1)  Please provide the full details of the Biden administration’s September 11 agreement with Iran relating to prisoners, including any side-deals or related agreements.

(2)  Are the Iranian agents reportedly planning to remain in the United States deportable under our immigration laws? Why or why not?

(3)  What plan does the Biden administration have in place to monitor the activities and communications of the Iranian agents that it has agreed to release? 

Thank you for your prompt attention to this important matter.

Sincerely,

 

BOOZMAN, BOOKER TEAM UP TO IMPROVE PROSTATE CANCER DETECTION
September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Cory Booker (D-NJ) introduced legislation to expand insurance coverage for prostate cancer screenings.

The bipartisan Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Screening for High-risk Insured Men (HIM) Act would require private health insurance plans to cover preventive prostate cancer screenings without imposing any cost sharing requirements for men who are at high risk of developing prostate cancer. 

“Diagnosing prostate cancer early is imperative to successful treatment. I know from personal experience in my own family the impact this disease has on patients and their loved ones. Increasing access to early screening for at-risk men will save lives. I am proud to be a voice in Congress for all those affected, because together we can help keep prostate cancer treatable and raise needed awareness,” said Boozman. 

“Costs shouldn’t impose a barrier between people and lifesaving health screening services,” said Booker. “Prostate cancer is a serious health concern, especially for African-American men and men with family history of this disease as they are more likely to face diagnosis and mortality. This bipartisan legislation would make prostate cancer screenings more accessible to all high-risk men, so we can reduce health disparities and increase early detection to save lives.”

Prostate cancer affects one in eight American men in their lifetime. Individuals who have at least one close family member diagnosed with the disease are at least twice as likely to be diagnosed themselves. The risk increases with each additional family member affected.

Prostate cancer disproportionately affects African-American men as they are 1.8 times more likely to be diagnosed with the disease and 2.2 times more likely to die from it.

Currently, the Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test is the most effective tool for detection. When detected in Stage 1 it’s almost 100 percent survivable.

“Every step towards eliminating financial barriers to prostate cancer screening is a win for men and their families, particularly those at the highest risk for the disease, and the PSA for HIM Act is a significant step forward. We appreciate the leadership of Senator Booker and Senator Boozman and their efforts to make prostate cancer screening accessible to all,” said Courtney Bugler, President and CEO of ZERO Prostate Cancer. “By ensuring that every individual has the opportunity for early detection and timely intervention, we are advancing significant progress to safeguard the health of our communities.”

“Increasing the rate of prostate cancer early detection screening for Black men is vital to reducing the death rate disparity, which is the largest for any of the major cancers. The PSA Screening for HIM Act will be a strong catalyst to increase screening by removing the financial barrier that is faced by many. PHEN emphatically supports this legislation that will save countless lives and lead the way in addressing the prostate cancer racial disparity,” said Thomas A. Farrington, Prostate Health Education Network (PHEN) President and Founder.

“The introduction of the Senate companion to the PSA for HIM Act is a tremendous win for prostate cancer patients,” said Eugene Rhee, MD, MBA, chair of the American Urological Association’s Public Policy Council. “This legislation will ensure that people who are at a higher risk of being diagnosed with prostate cancer are able to access screenings without cost-sharing barriers. Receiving regular PSA screenings can be the difference between catching this cancer early and being diagnosed with metastatic disease.”

“Screening can help detect prostate cancer at an early stage before the disease becomes more advanced and more difficult to treat; however out-of-pocket costs such as co-pays can be a barrier to accessing early detection,” said Lisa A. Lacasse, president of the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network. “The PSA Screening for HIM Act would remove a significant barrier that prevents far too many at high risk for prostate cancer, including those in the Black community, from getting screened. We thank Sens. Booker and Boozman for introducing this bill and look forward to working with them to get it passed.”

The legislation endorsed by the following organizations: Active Surveillance Patients International, American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, Inc., American Urological Association (AUA), Cancer & Careers, Cancer ABC's, Cancer Support Community, CancerCare, FORCE (Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered), National Alliance of State Prostate Cancer Coalitions, Patient Empowerment Network, Prostate Cancer Foundation, Prostate Cancer Research Institute, Prostate Conditions Education Council, Prostate Health Education Network, RetireSafe, Seattle Children's Foundation, Sexual Medicine Society of North America, Society for Basic Urologic Research, Society of Urologic Nurses and Associates, Society of Urologic Oncology, Society of Women in Urology, Stand Up To Cancer, Triage Cancer, UsTOO Support Programs, ZERO Urology Care Foundation, Veterans Prostate Cancer Awareness Inc. and ZERO Prostate Cancer.

ARKANSAS DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION RELEASES CARBON REDUCTION STRATEGY FOR PUBLIC COMMENT
September 18, 2023
The Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) has developed a Carbon Reduction Strategy (CRS) in accordance with the requirements of Title 23 United States Code, Section 175 (23 U.S.C. 175) – Carbon Reduction Program.

The public is invited to review and comment on the contents of this document through October 6, 2023. Download the draft CRS from the ARDOT website at: www.ardot.gov/CRS.

Submit all comments regarding the CRS in writing to:
Carbon Reduction Strategy
Planning Division
Arkansas Department of Transportation
P.O. Box 2261
Little Rock, AR 72203
Email: CRS@ardot.gov

Anyone needing project information or special accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is encouraged to write to Ruby Jordan-Johnson, P.O. Box 2261, Little Rock, AR 72203- 2261, call (501)569-2379, fax (501)569- 2009, or email environmentalpimeetings@ardot.gov.

Hearing or speech impaired, please contact the Arkansas Relay System at (Voice/TTY 711).

Free language assistance for Limited English Proficient individuals is available upon request.

This notice is available from the ADA/504/Title VI Coordinator in large print, on audiotape and in Braille.

The Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) complies with all civil rights provisions of federal statutes and related authorities that prohibit discrimination in programs and activities receiving federal financial assistance. Therefore, ARDOT does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, color, age, national origin, religion (not applicable as a protected group under the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Title VI Program), disability, Limited English Proficiency (LEP), or /low-income status in the admission, access to and treatment in ARDOT's programs and activities, as well as ARDOT's hiring or employment practices. Complaints of alleged discrimination and inquiries regarding ARDOT's nondiscrimination policies may be directed to Civil Rights Officer Joanna P. McFadden (ADA/504/Title VI Coordinator), PO Box 2261, Little Rock, Arkansas 72203-2261, 501-569- 2298 (Voice/TTY 711), or to the following email address: Joanna.McFadden@ardot.gov. 

Free language assistance for Limited English Proficient individuals is available upon request

SANDER NAMED DIRECTOR OF SAFETY FOR AECC/AECI
Little Rock, Ark. — Sept. 18, 2023 — Scott Sander has been named as the director of safety for Arkansas Electric Cooperative Corporation (AECC) and Arkansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc. (AECI).

Sander has worked for the cooperatives in safety roles since 2016. Prior to joining the electric cooperatives, he worked more than 28 years in the safety and training field.

He earned a bachelor of science degree in engineering-industrial technology from Southern Illinois University. Sander is also a certified safety professional and holds many industry-related accreditations and certifications.

The Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas comprise 17 electric distribution cooperatives; Arkansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc. (AECI), a Little Rock-based cooperative that provides services to the distribution cooperatives; and Arkansas Electric Cooperative Corp. (AECC), a generation and transmission cooperative. The distribution cooperatives provide electricity to approximately 600,000 homes, farms and businesses in Arkansas and surrounding states.

ENTERGY AGAIN NAMED A TOP UTILITY IN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – For 16 consecutive years, Site Selection magazine has recognized Entergy Corporation as a top utility for economic growth in the communities we serve, which include some of the largest and most power-intensive industries in the United States. In 2022, Entergy Arkansas helped secure $3.6 billion in capital investments and create nearly 1,400 new jobs within the state of Arkansas.

“One of the important ways ‘We Power Life’ is to our help our state and communities be successful in economic development.  That’s been our commitment for the past 110 years, and we look forward to many more years of helping our friends and neighbors across the Natural State grow and prosper,” said Laura Landreaux, president and chief executive officer of Entergy Arkansas.

Site Selection magazine determines each year’s honorees by assessing criteria including each utility’s job-creating infrastructure and facility investment trends, innovative programs and incentives for businesses and website tools and data.

Customer investments
Capital investments in Arkansas over the last 16 years represent a variety of industries and companies from around the world, including Big River Steel, Tractor Supply and Amazon. Entergy Arkansas developed and launched virtual tours of our certified Select Sites and produced high caliber videos and 360 degree aerials promoting the sites and continues to partner with the University of Central Arkansas and the Arkansas Economic Developers and Chamber Executives in delivering training for local economic development professionals and elected officials This is just a sample of initiatives that demonstrate the scale and breadth of economic growth we have helped drive in our communities.

Economic partnerships
We understand that siting new or expanding industrial facilities can be a complex process, and our teams have built partnerships to enable economic development throughout our four-state service area. Site Selection magazine once again recognized Entergy for our extensive support of local economic development efforts. Our state-of-the-art site selection website, arkansassiteselection.com, empowers companies with the essential information they need to locate, expand and market their commercial and industrial properties within our state. The website currently features over 1,400 listings across our four-state region.

Community development
Since 2018, Entergy Corporation has delivered more than $100 million in economic benefits each year to local communities, philanthropy, volunteerism and advocacy across our four-state region through the Entergy Charitable Foundation.

Environmental sustainability
In 2022, Entergy Corporation reaffirmed our 2020 commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, and we expect to reach 50% clean, carbon-free power generation capacity by 2030. We also anticipate 50% reduction of our carbon dioxide emissions rate by 2030.

Site Selection magazine’s profile of Entergy may be viewed in the September 2023 print issue and online.

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About Entergy Arkansas
Entergy Arkansas, LLC provides electricity to approximately 730,000 customers in 63 counties. Entergy Arkansas is a subsidiary of Entergy Corporation, a Fortune 500 electric company. Entergy powers life for 3 million customers through our operating companies in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas. We’re investing in the reliability and resilience of the energy system while helping our region transition to cleaner, more efficient energy solutions. With roots in our communities for more than 100 years, Entergy is a nationally recognized leader in sustainability and corporate citizenship. Since 2018, we have delivered more than $100 million in economic benefits each year to local communities through philanthropy, volunteerism and advocacy. Entergy is headquartered in New Orleans, Louisiana, and has approximately 12,000 employees. For the latest news from Entergy, visit the Newsroom.
 

BOOZMAN HONORED BY WOUNDED WARRIOR PROJECT AS LEGISLATOR OF THE YEAR
WASHINGTON—Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) honored U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) with its 2023 Legislator of the Year award in recognition of his steadfast commitment to America’s veterans and championing legislation to improve their benefits and services.

“Senator Boozman has always been there, ready to meet with veterans and address their most pressing needs,” said Jose Ramos, vice president of government and community relations for WWP. “He is an outstanding champion of wounded warriors and the entire veteran community, and we’re so honored to be able to recognize him with our Legislator of the Year award for 2023.”

“Wounded Warrior Project has been a tireless advocate for veterans and their families, and it has been an honor to work together to strengthen benefits and services these heroes earned. I’m proud of what we’ve been able to accomplish. I look forward to continuing our productive collaboration to ensure our nation fulfills the promise made to those who have worn America’s uniform,” Boozman said.

In addition to recognizing Boozman’s advocacy for passing legislation enhancing breast cancer screenings for at-risk former servicemembers, making it easier for veterans with service-related conditions to receive the clothing allowance benefit they earned as well as enhancing support for survivors of military sexual trauma, WWP applauded the senator’s leadership in successfully delivering landmark legislation expanding care and benefits for toxic-exposed veterans and their families to the president’s desk.

“The PACT Act has been one of WWP’s key legislative priorities for years, and the bill faced significant hurdles in the Senate,” Ramos said. “Senator Boozman was with the veteran community every step of the way, and he deserves so much credit for the bill being signed into law.”

As a senior member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee and Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee responsible for Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) funding, Boozman has been a leader in delivering additional resources to support the needs of veterans and their families.

Boozman is currently leading the floor debate on the Fiscal Year 2024 Senate Military Construction and Related Agencies Appropriations bill. In recent days he introduced legislation to preserve veterans’ access to lifesaving emergency medical transportation and a bill to enhance oversight and accountability practices at VA medical centers.

ASP CHARGES MAN IN APRIL DEATH OF 84-YEAR-OLD VETERAN
September 15, 2023
Darmel Dashun Batemon Jr., 20, of North Little Rock was taken into custody Wednesday at Arkansas State Police (ASP) Headquarters in connection with a fatality wreck that occurred in Little Rock on April 8th.  Batemon was charged with manslaughter and second-degree battery, both felony offenses. (video of surrender below)

Gerald Stuart Allen, 84, of Benton died in the wreck and his wife, Lucille “Lucy” Kiser Allen, was seriously injured. (photo above)

ASP investigators say Batemon and another motorist were racing on I-430 North on that Saturday afternoon when the fatality accident occurred near the 4-mile marker.  
Batemon was driving a 2012 Dodge Charger when he struck the Allen’s 2015 Toyota Avalon from the rear, forcing the vehicle off the roadway, where it struck a tree. Batemon was also injured.

“My hope is that this senseless tragedy will serve to help us educate the public about the deadly consequences of street racing,” said ASP Colonel Mike Hagar. “Mr. Allen’s death was completely preventable. He and his wife should have enjoyed the retirement they earned. Racing and driving at high rates of speed endanger everyone on the road.”

Mr. Allen was an Arkansas Army National Guard veteran, serving as Commander of the 39th Support Battalion of the 39th Infantry Brigade. He retired with the rank of Colonel in 1986.

Mr. Allen’s obituary said, “The family asks that you consider contacting your state representative and requesting stronger penalties for those who are caught street racing on public roadways so that such senseless and tragic deaths and injuries may be prevented.”

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that in the past decade alone 800 people have lost their lives in incidents related to street races.

STATE CAPITOL WEEK IN REVIEW FROM SENATOR MATT STONE
September 15, 2023

LITTLE ROCK – In a four-day special session, the legislature lowered state taxes by almost $250 million this year.

Legislators also approved the governor’s proposal to prohibit state and local government officials from requiring proof of Covid vaccinations in order to qualify for services, employment or education. Arkansas had a ban in effect, but it expired in August.

Legislation to amend the Freedom of Information Act was approved to keep secret security measures in place for constitutional officers, justices of the Supreme Court and judges on the Court of Appeals.

If an agency needs to require proof of vaccinations in order to continue receiving federal funds, the agency may ask the Legislative Council for approval to do so.

Under the previous ban, agencies that offer health services had waivers permitting them to require employees to get vaccinated. Exemptions were granted to employees for religious or health-related reasons.

Legislation also was approved to clarify that schools must lock all doors leading outside during school time.

The tax cuts will benefit Arkansas in two ways. Income tax rates were lowered. The top rate will go down from 4.7 to 4.4 percent, beginning this year. That will save 1.1 million Arkansas taxpayers $75 million this year and $150 million next year.

The top rate for corporate income taxes will go down from 5.1 to 4.8 percent, saving 7,500 businesses $17.2 million this year and $34.5 million next year.

The tax relief measure includes a one-time credit of $150 for all taxpayers whose incomes is below $89,600. For taxpayers with incomes between $89,601 and $103,600 the amount of the credit gradually decreases. People whose income is $103,601 and above will not get a credit. The credit will save taxpayers about $156.3 million this year.

The legislature also created a reserve account and deposited into it $710.6 million from last year’s budget surplus. This reserve fund is a buffer for state government in the event of a downturn in the economy.

Arkansas operates under a strict balanced budget law. When economic activity slows down, people pay less in sales taxes and income taxes. When tax revenue drops, state government reduces spending proportionately.

If there is an economic downturn in the future that lowers tax revenue, legislators and state officials can draw from the new reserve fund to maintain essential state services. It will take approval from the Legislative Council, by a two-thirds majority vote, to draw from the reserve fund. If the legislature is in session, it will require a vote of two-thirds of the Joint Budget Committee.

Changing of the FOI law created the most drama of the special session. The original bill proposed by the governor generated opposition from groups who believed it would go too far in making government operations secret. After lengthy negotiations and lengthy public hearings in the Senate Committee on State Agencies and Governmental Affairs, senators reached a compromise that passed by a vote of 29-to-2.

The compromise restricts the public from accessing details about security measures in place to protect elected officials. The State Police are in charge of security for the governor, and recently there have been FOI requests seeking to discover details about the governor’s travel and security arrangements.

FRIENDS OF OLD STATE HOUSE HOSTS ANNUAL SUPPER EVENT
The Buffalo and Beyond: Arkansas Wild Natural and Beautiful
(LITTLE ROCK) — Help celebrate the "The Buffalo and Beyond: Arkansas Wild Natural and Beautiful" at the Old State House Museum Annual Supper fundraising event on Thursday, Oct. 12, 2023, from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., beginning with a reception on the front lawn of the Old State House Museum.

When John Naisbitt wrote "High Tech High Touch" in 1983 he foresaw the technology boom and predicted the need to balance our lives with access to nature. In Arkansas that balance is easily available, thanks to the 1984 Arkansas Wilderness Act.  This act expanded wilderness designations in Arkansas and expanded on the momentum for outdoors recreation begun with the national river designation of the Buffalo River in 1972.

Whether you are a fan of Arkansas' outdoors, the history of Arkansas' state parks or just the Old State House Museum, this promises to be an evening you won't want to miss. Join our moderator Roby Brock along with his panelists:

Former Congressman Ed Bethune, instigator of the Flatside Wilderness and Sponsor of the Arkansas Wilderness Act.

Austin Booth, Director of Arkansas Game and Fish Commission

Archie Schaffer III, administrative assistant to Governor Dale Bumpers when the Buffalo River was designated the first national river

Joe David Rice, former Arkansas Tourism Director (30 years) and Arkansas author

Rep. French Hill, former staffer to Sen. John Tower, TX, a co-sponsor of the Wilderness Act.  The Congressman is currently working to expand the Flatside Wilderness Area.

The museum is located at 300 W. Markham St. in Little Rock. A seated dinner and program will follow the reception in the museum’s historic 1885 House of Representatives Chamber on the second floor.

Seating is limited and early purchase of tickets is suggested. Tickets are $125 per person and can be purchased at www.oldstatehouseassociates.org, by mailing a check to P.O. Box 7640, Little Rock, AR 72217, or by calling 501-425-9641.

Stephens inc., Dillard’s Inc.. the Steven J. Landers Family Limited Partnership, Ed Bethune in honor of Lana Bethune and the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette are presenting sponsors of the event.

Each fall, Friends of the Old State House Museum hosts an Annual Supper in the 1885 House of Representatives Chamber. This fundraising event features speakers of historical, political or regional importance.

Friends of the Old State House Museum is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the Old State House Museum and its programs. Funds raised by the organization support programs and exhibits, such as the School Bus Fund, the Pillars of Power Exhibit and the First Ladies Gown Exhibit.

For more information, contact Rae Ann Fields at jfields@aristotle.net or call 501-425-9641.

The Old State House Museum
Construction on the iconic Greek Revival building that would house Arkansas’s first state capitol building began in 1833. The structure served numerous purposes until 1951 when the Old State House became the state’s museum dedicated to preserving the history of Arkansas from statehood to today. It received national accreditation in 1993 and again in 2003.
 

BECHTELHEIMER TO TEACH BEGINNING WATERCOLOR WORKSHOP
Artist Gay Bechtelheimer will lead beginning watercolor students through a two-day workshop at the South Arkansas Arts Center on October 14 and 15. The weekend class will be held in the newly renovated upstairs studio at SAAC, and will provide students with an interest in learning the fundamentals of watercolor the techniques and materials they need for a successful artistic practice.

“This class will be a wonderful way for those interested in watercolor to lay the foundation to work independently and enjoyably in the medium,” says Bechtelheimer. “Attendees will be given guidance on appropriate watercolor supplies, as well as the fundamentals and techniques of working with watercolor, and will apply these techniques to create works of their own.”

Bechtelheimer, a well-known artist and educator, brings years of experience in the watercolor medium to the classroom. She is passionate about lifelong learning in the arts, and has spent many years advocating for the arts on the local and national level. A retired educator, she teaches and lectures on art regularly at SAAC, and continues her own art education through her travels.

The workshop will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, October 14, and Sunday, October 15. The cost of the workshop is $150 for SAAC members, and $175 for general public. Supply list available upon registration. Register at www.saac-arts.org, or by calling 870-862-5474.

BOOZMAN, PADILLA PARTNER TO PUSH CREATION OF DISASTER RECOVERY AND RESILIENCE OFFICE
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Alex Padilla (D-CA) introduced legislation to formalize the Economic Development Administration’s (EDA) role in economic recovery efforts within communities impacted by natural disasters. 

The Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience Act would create an entity to expedite deployment of resources and improve service delivery to affected communities.

“Arkansans are unfortunately very familiar with the devastation caused by natural disasters. The EDA’s leadership is crucial to the recovery and resilience of communities during these challenging circumstances. Clearly defining the EDA’s role will help improve the federal response and long-term economic outcome,” Boozman said.

“Economic recovery and revitalization are crucial elements of post-disaster assistance,” said Padilla. “Even with federal assistance to rebuild damaged roads, bridges, and homes, communities can remain impacted for decades after a natural disaster. As extreme weather events become more frequent across the country, disaster recovery activities are increasingly critical to EDA’s mission of promoting more resilient economies. We must formalize EDA’s role in post-disaster assistance to better help communities prepare for, mitigate, and recover from the negative economic impacts of natural disasters.”

The legislation is endorsed by the National Association of Development Organizations, the National Association of Counties, and the International Economic Development Council.

“The creation of an Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience within the U.S. Economic Development Administration would not only help strengthen communities’ disaster readiness planning efforts, but would also help enhance the impacts of EDA’s disaster mitigation investments. This exciting legislation will help bolster the important role that EDA plays in supporting long-term community economic recovery,” said Joe McKinney, Executive Director, National Association of Development Organizations.

As a member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, Boozman participated in a June hearing to discuss reauthorizing the EDA. Little Rock Port Authority Executive Director Bryan Day testified before the committee to share about the EDA’s impact on growth in Central Arkansas.

PRYCE ROBERTSON RECEIVES CITATION FROM STATE SENATOR MATT STONE
Radio Works own Pryce Robertson received a Citation from State Senator Matt Stone yesterday. In a presentation prior to yesterday’s Senate session Senator Stone presented the Citation. Pryce, his parents Richard and Vicki Robertson and his Aunt Beth Smith stood alongside Pryce as he accepted the Citation. Audio of the presentation is above.
 

AG GRIFFIN, PROSECUTOR JONES ANNOUNCE GUILTY PLEA, 50-YEAR SENTENCE FOR MAN ON CHILD PORNOGRAPHY CHARGES
Griffin: Conviction ‘reaffirms our mission and promise to go after those who heinously exploit our most vulnerable through child pornography’
LITTLE ROCK – Attorney General Tim Griffin and Sixth Judicial District Prosecuting Attorney Will Jones today issued statements regarding the negotiated guilty plea of Robert Vincent Lahn, 44, to 30 counts of possession of child pornography and a sentence of 50 years in the Arkansas Department of Corrections.

“I am extremely grateful for the efforts of Sixth District Prosecuting Attorney Will Jones for securing this plea and the hard work of all those in my office’s Special Investigations and Special Prosecutions divisions—including Special Agent K9 Lucy—who worked on the search of Lahn’s home and executed the arrest that led to his guilty plea and sentencing,” Griffin said.

“This conviction is from the first arrest executed by my office after I became Attorney General. It reaffirms my mission and promise to go after those who heinously exploit our most vulnerable through child pornography,” Griffin added. “I especially thank Chief Wayne Bewley and Special Agents John Coleman, Amber Kalmer, Walt Mahone, JayP Massiet, Steve Moore and Jeremiah Terrell for their work.”

Jones said: “We are thankful for our relationship with the Attorney General's Special Investigations Division and value our partnership. Deputy Prosecutors Nichole Pace and Michelle Quiller worked hard to secure a sentence that will make our community safer.”

Special Investigations Division agents executed a search warrant for Lahn’s North Little Rock residence on March 28 and arrested him on April 5.
 

ARKANSAS DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE LEADERSHIP RECOGNIZED AT NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF STATE DEPARTMENTS OF AGRICULTURE ANNUAL MEETING
LITTLE ROCK, AR— This week, the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) held its annual meeting in Cheyenne, Wyoming where Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture Wes Ward was elected vice president for 2023-2024.

“It is a great honor to be elected as vice president of NASDA,” said Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture Wes Ward. “I am proud to represent Arkansas within the organization and look forward to continued collaboration with our nation’s states and territories to support U.S. agriculture.”

At the meeting, recipients of the 2023 NASDA Honor Awards were announced. Arkansas Department of Agriculture Deputy Secretary Cynthia Edwards received the Douglass-Irvin Administration Award. This award recognizes an individual for outstanding contributions within a state agency resulting in improved efficiency and impact. Edwards has served as Deputy Secretary since 2011.

NASDA, founded in 1916, is a nonpartisan, nonprofit association that represents the elected and appointed commissioners, secretaries, and directors of the departments of agriculture in all fifty states and four U.S. territories. NASDA grows and enhances American agriculture through policy, partnerships, and public engagement.

NASDA is governed by a 10-member board of directors which includes executive committee members who serve as officers of the association. Officers for the upcoming year are Blayne Arthur, Oklahoma, President; Wes Ward, Arkansas, Vice President; Amanda Beal, Maine, Second Vice President; and Derek Sandison, Washington, Secretary-Treasurer.

Learn more about NASDA at nasda.org/

The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies and programs for Arkansas agriculture, forestry, and natural resources to keep its farmers and ranchers competitive in national and international markets while conserving natural resources and ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation. Visit agriculture.arkansas.gov/. The Arkansas Department of Agriculture offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

BOOZMAN, SENATE VETERANS AFFAIRS COMMITTEE LEADERS FIGHT TO PRESERVE RURAL VETERANS’ ACCESS TO LIFESAVING EMERGENCY MEDICAL TRANSPORTATION
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) joined Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee Chairman Jon Tester (D-MT), Ranking Member Jerry Moran (R-KS) and Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) in introducing legislation to protect rural veterans’ access to quality, lifesaving emergency medical care and transport.

The VA Emergency Transportation Access Act would prevent the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) from reducing rates of pay and reimbursement for special mode transportation providers, including ground and air ambulances, unless VA meets certain requirements that ensure rate changes will not reduce veterans’ access to this essential service. Rate reductions below the actual cost of these emergency transports, without proper safeguards in place, would have catastrophic impacts if providers are forced to reduce services and even close access points due to an inability to absorb those costs.

“The VA must take into account the consequences its reimbursement proposal for emergency transports will have on veterans’ access to health care,” said Boozman. “Our bipartisan bill would protect access to emergency services for these heroes no matter where they live, ensuring this critical resource continues operating. I’m proud to champion this effort to help fulfill the promise made to America’s men and women who served in uniform.”

“In rural states like Montana, emergency air and ground transportation is a lifeline for veterans who can easily find themselves a long way from a hospital when a medical emergency happens,” said Tester. “Our bipartisan bill will ensure veterans can continue to access the timely, lifesaving emergency services they have earned, and that local emergency transportation providers are fairly reimbursed for their service to these heroes.”

“It is critical that VA continues to provide fair reimbursements for emergency transportation services so veterans, particularly those in rural areas, have no barriers standing between them and the health care they need,” said Moran. “VA’s recent rule making threatens to upend access to care for veterans and all Americans by disrupting the air and ground ambulance industry from coast to coast. This legislation would put a stop to that by establishing commonsense parameters for VA to follow when setting air ambulance reimbursement rates to make certain veterans across the nation receive lifesaving care when they need it most.”

“This proposed rule needs to be carefully considered before implementation, to prevent any negative consequences to timely health care and emergency services, especially for veterans in rural areas,” said Murray. “Before VA moves forward with this rule, they need to take a serious look at what its implementation would mean for those who rely on VA and ensure that any changes will not result in more limited access to emergency services. Congress must take seriously our responsibility to make sure veterans have the best possible access to the high-quality health care they deserve, and this legislation gives the Department time to fully consider whether this proposed rule keeps our promise.”

Veterans living in rural or hard-to-reach areas rely on emergency medical care and transports to access urgent, lifesaving medical care. In February, VA finalized a proposed rule change for special mode transportation service rates that would bring rates far below the actual costs of these services that would go into effect February 2024, despite significant opposition from Congress, providers and Veteran Service Organizations.

 

Rate reductions could cause emergency transportation providers to severely reduce services, close bases or even bill veterans for the balance of their costs in order to shoulder the financial impacts of this change. The department’s plan to reduce this negative impact through contracted rates above the base rates proposed in the rule is months behind and many aspects of the contracting plans are still not confirmed.

The VA Emergency Transportation Access Act would require the department to complete the following requirements before pursuing a change that would reduce reimbursement rates for Special Modes of Transportation:
Conduct a thorough review of the impact a change in rates would have on veterans’ access to care;
Consult industry experts, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, appropriate VA subject matter experts and Veterans Service Organizations when conducting the review;
Develop a formal process of updating the rates that protects or expands veterans’ current access to emergency transportation; and
Ensure the new rates reflect the actual costs of transportation.

The legislation is supported by Wounded Warrior Project, Paralyzed Veterans of America, The American Legion and the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Arkansas emergency medical service leaders also applauded the bipartisan effort to make certain VA maintains fair emergency transportation rates.

“Ambulance providers like Pafford Medical Services are at a breaking point as a result of Medicare reimbursement rates, a staffing crisis and high inflation costs. The VA’s proposal creates another hurdle to patient care and jeopardizes the EMS system across Arkansas. We are proud to support the VA Emergency Transportation Access Act and appreciate Senator Boozman’s leadership to ensure emergency services are fairly reimbursed,” said Jamie Pafford-Gresham, President & CEO of Pafford Medical Services.

CITY OF CAMDEN BOARD OF ALDERMEN MEET
Another 4 hour contentious meeting for the Board
The City of Camden Board of Aldermen met is regular session Tuesday, September 12th, 2023. in the Council Chambers of the Municipal Building.

Mayor Charlotte Young called the meeting to order promptly at 7:00 pm. Dr. Steve Watson, Pastor of the First Baptist Church, 348 W. Washington St. in Camden offered the invocation followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.

City Clerk Donna Stewart called the roll. Aldermen Chris Aregood, Gerald Castleberry, Marvin Moore, Ebony Gulley, Ed Winters, L.E. Lindsey, Joe Askew and William McCoy were all in attendance.

The Minutes from the Regular Meeting dated August 8th, 2023 were presented in print. Motion was made and seconded. The minutes passed by unanimous vote.

The Financial Report for August 2023 was presented in print. Motion was made and seconded. There were questions regarding expenditures for office supplies for Public Works. Public Works stated that it was an invoice that was possibly miscoded. Treasurer Lauren Robertson went and printed out the line-by-line report of expenses for Public Works for the month of August. There were some other questions on the Financial Report. Despite efforts by City Attorney Frey and City Treasurer Robertson to answer the questions some of the aldermen were not satisfied with the answers given.  Aldermen Lindsey, Winters Castleberry and Aregood voted to approve the Financial Report. Aldermen Gulley, Moore, Askew and McCoy voted no. Mayor Young voted yes and the Financial Report was approved.

During audience participation the Ordinance regarding stray dogs came up. The way the Ordinance is written, if a stray dog comes on your property and you provide food or water, the dog is considered yours. An instance had occurred with a resident who called Animal Control regarding a pregnant stray. This was in the heat of the summer. She was informed that the city pound didn't have any room for the dog. The woman's granddaughter gave the dog water. The woman got a ticket regarding the dog as it stayed on the property and had her puppies. The resident went to court and was found not guilty. Animal control came and got the dog the day of court. The Council agreed that the Ordinance needs to be looked at and possibly changed.

During the Mayor’s Report, David Richardson, Manager Camden Water Utilities gave the  Biannual Water & Sewer Report.

The Mayor reminded the residents about the Veterans Event that is taking place on Thursday and the cleanup in Camden coming up in October.

Mayor Young presented Michael Jackson as the Employee of the month. received a certificate and gift card from the Mayor. The Mayor said this employee has a great attitude. Mr. Jackson always does his job with question or complaint.

There were several Ordinances up for 2nd and third readings.  The third reading of Ordinance No. 03-23, an ordinance permitting an Official of the Camden Water and Sewer Commission to be inerested in contracts with the City of Camden, Arkansas was heard. The Official pulled his request.

The third reading of Ordinance No. 04-23, an ordinance repealing Camden Code Section 2-54 regarding advertising of bids for public improvements; and for other purposes was heard. Motion was made and seconded. Aldermen Gulley and Moore both stated that there was supposed to be a workshop. The ordinance was tabled until next month. It will be discussed at the workshop on September 26, 2023.

Next was the third reading of Ordinance No. 05-23, an ordinance amending Article II of the Camden Code; establishing rates and procedures for the collection of garbage for Commercial Customers; and for other purposes. Motion was made and seconded. After a discussion Lindsey made a motion to amend the Ordinance to include the changes that were discussed at an earlier workshop. Alderman Are good seconded the motion to amend. City Attorney Frey explained the changes that were made to the original ordinance. After a long discussion, Alderman Lindsey withdrew his motion to amend and made a motion to amend the original ordinance by changing the second section to strike the final sentence The motion to amend passed by unanimous vote. Alderman Gulley then made a motion to table the Ordnance until the water department can get the billing and rates correct. Aldermen Lindsey, Castleberry, Winters and Aregood voted no to table the vote. Aldermen Moore, Gulley, Askew and MC Coy voted yes to tabling the Ordinance. The Ordinance is tabled until next month.

The second reading of Ordinance No. 06-23, an ordinance repealing Ordinance No. 6-12 assessing a lien on certain property located 777 Bradley Ferry Road SE. was heard. Motion was made and seconded. Code Enforcement Officer Thomas Vaughan explained that the woman had offered and sent a check for $150. It got lost and was found recently. The Council generally will accept 20% of $2500.00 which would be $496.00. A motion was made to suspend the rules and put up for a third and final reading. The Ordinance to suspend passed by unanimous vote. The Ordinance passed by unanimous vote. The owner of the property will be informed that she can pay the difference between the offer of $150 she has sent the City and the $496 required by the city.

Next was the second reading of Ordinance No. 07-23, an ordinance amending Camden Code 2-46, 2-52 and 2-53, regarding purchases and contracts; and for other purposes. Motion was made and seconded.  The Ordinance will have its third and final reading next month.

The Board of Aldermen then moved on to new business. First up was Ordinance No. 08-23, an ordinance fixing the rate of taxation for the year 2024; declaring an emergency and other purposes. Motion was made and seconded. Motion was made to suspend the rules and put up the Ordinance for a third and final vote. The motion to suspend passed unanimously. The Ordinance passed by unanimous vote.

Resolution No. 52-23, a resolution amending the 2023 Annual Operating Budget for Police and Fire Salaries and employer payroll contributions. Motion was made and seconded. Resolution passed by unanimous vote.

Resolution No. 53-23, a resolution authorizing the mayor to enter into a contractual agreement with Michael Rogers Designs LLC, to provide architectural services for the City of Camden. Alderman Gulley made a motion to table the Resolution until the contract is available to see. Moore seconded the motion to table. Alderman Lindsey stated that he felt that the city should move forward to get this done so the grant for Teen Town can be applied for. Aldermen McCoy, Moore, Gulley and Askew voted to table the Resolution. Aldermen Lindsey, Winters, Castleberry and Aregood voted no to tabling the resolution. Motion failed. Aldermen Aregood, Winters, Castleberry and Lindsey voted yes to pass the resolution. Aldermen Moore, Gulley, Askew and McCoy voted no on the Resolution The Mayor voted yes to break the tie. The resolution passed.

Resolution No. 54-23, a resolution amending the 2023 Annual Operating Budget; providing pay raises for sworn police officers and dispatchers; and for other purposes. Motion was made and seconded. Alderman Gulley stated that the City has a limited use tax fund for Police and Fire. She questioned where that money was going. City Attorney pointed out in the budget the line items for the Police and Fire. He explained how the tax works and that the City is using the tax as it should be and some of the budget for police comes from the tax and the rest comes from the general fund. Alderman Gulley made a motion to amend the Resolution to include $2.00 an hour raises to non sworn personnel at the Police Department. That would add about $38,000.00 to what Chief Woody had requested. There was no second so the aldermen voted on the original Resolution. All Aldermen voted yes with the exception of Gulley who abstained. The Resolution passed.

Resolution No. 55-23, a resolution amending the Annual Operating Budget for 2023; and for other purposes. Motion was made and seconded. This was to move $5000.00 to the Claims fund.  The Resolution passed by unanimous vote.

Resolution No. 56-23, a resolution confirming the appointment of members to the Historic Advisory Commission; and for other purposes. Motion was made and seconded. The Resolution passed by unanimous vote.

Resolution No. 57-23, a resolution appointing LaRhonda Moore to the Civil Service Commission. Motion was made and seconded. Resolution passed by unanimous vote.

Resolution No. 59-23, a resolution authorizing the Chief Elected Official to sign an application for CDBG. Motion was made and seconded.  Passed by unanimous vote.

The meeting was adjourned at 10:58 pm.

The next regular meeting is scheduled for October 10, 2023.

 

CAMDEN FAIRVIEW SCHOOLS - CELEBRATING HOMECOMING 2023
If you or your organization would like to participate in the Homecoming Parade on September 29, 2023, you must pre-register your entry with Darla Stivers or Tavitha Wooten by the end of day on September 26, 2023. Registration forms will need to be picked up from Camden Fairview High School. There will also be a fee of $10.00 per entry (per vehicle) this year. All proceeds from the fees will go towards materials for next year's student floats. The theme for this year is “Game Night”. The slogan is “Cards Play to Win”.  The start time for the parade will be at 3:00 p.m. at the First Baptist Church.  No one will be allowed to participate in the parade without an entry form on file.

For more information, call:
Darla Stivers or Tavitha Wooten at Camden Fairview High School 870-837-1300 during school hours.

The last day to register will be September 26, 2023.

COTTON, ROMNEY, COLLEAGUES INTRODUCE BILL TO RAISE MINIMUM WAGE AND STOP EMPLOYMENT OF ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS
Washington, D.C. — Senators Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) and Mitt Romney (R-Utah) today introduced the Higher Wages for American Workers Act, a bill that would gradually raise the federal minimum wage to $11 by 2028 and
mandate E-Verify to ensure the wage increase only goes to legal workers.

The bill will also index future minimum wage increases to inflation and includes protections for small businesses. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-West Virginia), Bill Cassidy (R-Louisiana), Susan Collins (R-Maine), and J.D. Vance (R-Ohio) are co-sponsors of the legislation.

“American workers today compete against millions of illegal immigrants for too few jobs with wages that are too low—that’s unfair. Ending the black market for illegal labor will open up jobs for Americans. Raising the minimum wage will allow Americans filling those jobs to better support their families. Our bill does both,” said Senator Cotton. 

“Despite rising costs of living, the federal minimum wage has not been increased in more than a decade, which has left millions of Americans struggling to make ends meet. Our proposal would raise wages for millions of workers without risking jobs, and tether the wage to inflation to ensure it keeps up with rising costs. Additionally, requiring employers to use E-Verify would ensure that the wage increase goes to legal workers, which would protect American jobs and eliminate a key driver of illegal immigration,” said Senator Romney.

Background:
Gradually raises the federal minimum wage to $11 over four years, and then indexes it to inflation every two years moving forward.

Creates a slower phase-in for small businesses with fewer than 20 employees.

Mandates E-Verify for all employers, phasing in implementation over 18 months to allow small businesses additional time to comply.

Raises civil and criminal penalties on employers that hire unauthorized aliens and/or violate I-9 paperwork requirements.

Prevents fraud by requiring workers 18 and older to provide a photo ID to their employer for verification, which will be cross-referenced if a photo is available through the E-Verify system.

 

WESTERMAN LETTER TO BIDEN ADMINISTRATION CRITICIZING THE LISTING OF RIO GRANDE MUSSELS AS AN ENDANGERED SPECIES
WASHINGTON - House Committee on Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman (AR-04), House Budget Committee Chairman Jodey Arrington (TX-19), House Homeland Security Chairman Mark E. Green, M.D. (TN-07), and Border Security Caucus Co-Chairs Rep. Brian Babin (TX-36) and Rep. Andy Biggs (AZ-05) led a letter to President Biden and Secretary of the Department of the Interior Haaland inquiring about the July 25, 2023 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service proposed rule to list the Salina mucket and the Mexican fawnsfoot mussels as endangered and designate a critical habitat for the species. 

The Service has proposed nearly 300 river miles of critical habitat for the mussels along the border, an action which would impede Texas’ ability to protect the border and its citizens and prevent U.S. Border Patrol from accomplishing its mission of protecting the American people and safeguarding our borders.

“If the Biden Administration is so concerned with the well-being of these mussel species, they should use their authority to combat the illegal crossings impacting the habitats of the species, rather than blocking the Governor of Texas’ efforts. I’m proud to lead this effort with Chairman Arrington to seek answers about the Administration’s latest politically motivated rule that only fuels the ongoing ecological, humanitarian, and national security crisis at the border,” said Chairman Westerman.

“While Biden has failed to use federal powers to secure the border, he has no problem weaponizing the government to prevent states from doing so in his absence. Where was Biden's U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s concerns when millions of migrants trampled the mussel’s “critical habitat” while illegally crossing the Rio Grande? Clearly, Biden is more concerned about disrupting the habitat of the Mexican mussels than disrupting the operations of Mexican cartels who are destroying the lives of Americans and migrants alike. Governor Abbott has the constitutional authority to secure the border and protect his citizens. He should pay no attention to Biden’s shell game,” said Chairman Arrington.

“Texas has been forced to protect and defend itself because President Biden and Secretary Mayorkas won’t secure the border. The Biden administration is spending more time and effort trying to keep Texas from defending its ranchers, farmers, and others living in border communities than it is trying to fix the problem. The fact that Biden is now using the existence of mussels in the Rio Grande as a reason to block Texas from keeping its river barrier system in place is utter horse hockey. What’s next, moss? The situation at the border has reached critical levels—these political games impede the ability to carry out vital border security. I’m proud to join Chairman Arrington in shedding light on this ridiculous action by the Biden administration,” said Chairman Green.

“The Biden administration’s convenient declaration of an environmental hazard in response to Governor Abbott’s floating barrier is undoubtedly political,” said Rep. Babin. “If the White House genuinely cared about the mussels growing in the Rio Grande, it would secure the border and stop the hundreds of thousands of illegals from trampling across the river – or maybe clean up the tons of trash illegal immigrants and smugglers leave behind each year. Instead of prioritizing our national security, the president has once again acted to further open our southern border and erode our sovereignty.”

“The Biden Administration’s proposed rule to designate new critical habitat and endangered species in the Rio Grande Sector to halt border barrier construction is a brazen attempt to further unsecure our nation’s southern border. The timing of this rule amid the creation of a new floating border barrier in Texas confirms the rule is politically motivated and likely legally dubious,” said Rep. Biggs. “I applaud Congressman Arrington’s latest efforts to help better secure our southern border and require the Biden Administration to answer Congress.”

 

The Burn Ban in Ouachita County has been lifted.

CITY OF CAMDEN BOARD OF ALDERMEN TO MEET
The City of Camden Board of Aldermen will have their regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, September 12th, 2023, at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers of the Municipal Building.

The agenda is as follows:
A.    CALL TO ORDER
B.    INVOCATION – Dr. Steve Watson, Pastor – First Baptist Church, 348 W. Washington St., Camden,  Arkansas 71701
C.    PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
D.    ROLL CALL
E.    APPROVAL OF MINUTES
     1.   Minutes Regular Meeting August 8,  2023     
F.    ACCEPTANCE OF FINANCIAL REPORT
     1.   Financial Report for August 2023
G.    AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION
H.    MAYOR’S REPORT
1.   David Richardson, Manager Camden Water Utilities -  Biannual Water & Sewer Report

 I.    OLD BUSINESS   
     1.   Ordinance No. 03-23, an ordinance permitting an Official of the Camden Water and Sewer Commission tobe  interested in contracts with the City of Camden, Arkansas. (Third Reading)

      2.   Ordinance No. 04-23, an ordinance repealing Camden Code Section 2-54 regarding advertising of bids for public improvements; and for other purposes. (Third Reading)

      3.   Ordinance No. 05-23, an ordinance amending Article II of the Camden Code; establishing rates and procedures for the collection of garbage for Commercial Customers; and for other purposes. (Third Reading)

      4.   Ordinance No. 06-23, an ordinance repealing Ordinance No. 6-12 assessing a lien on certain property located 777 Bradley Ferry Road SE. (Second Reading)

      5.   Ordinance No. 07-23, an ordinance amending Camden Code 2-46, 2-52 and 2-53, regarding purchases and    contracts; and for other purposes. (Second Reading)

J.   NEW BUSINESS

      1.   Ordinance No. 08-23, an ordinance fixing the rate of taxation for the year 2024; declaring an emergency;and   other purposes.

      2.   Resolution No. 52-23, a resolution amending the 2023 Annual Operating Budget for Police and Fire Salaries and employer payroll contributions.

      3.   Resolution No. 53-23, a resolution authorizing the mayor to enter into a contractual agreement with Michael Rogers Designs LLC, to provide architectural services for the city of Camden.

      4.   Resolution No. 54-23, a resolution amending the 2023 Annual Operating Budget; providing pay raises for sworn police officers and dispatchers; and for other purposes.

      5.   Resolution No. 55-23, a resolution amending the Annual Operating Budget for 2023; and for other purposes.

      6.   Resolution No. 56-23, a resolution confirming the appointment of members to the Historic  Advisory Commission; and for other purposes.

      7.   Resolution No. 57-23, a resolution appointing LaRhonda Moore to the Civil Service Commission.

      8.   Resolution No. 59-23, a resolution authorizing the Chief Elected Official to sign an application for CDBG.

K.    OTHER BUSINESS         
L.    ADJOURNMENT
 

SMALL BUSINESSES APPLAUD GOVERNOR SANDERS’ CALL FOR SPECIAL SESSION TAX CUTS
NFIB Arkansas supports responsibly eliminating the state’s income tax
LITTLE ROCK (Sept. 8, 2023) – Upon Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders’ call for a special session to cut the state income and corporate tax rates, NFIB State Director Katie Burns applauded the announcement and urged lawmakers to keep small business owners in mind during the negotiations.

“NFIB-Arkansas members are grateful the Governor is working to uphold her commitment to responsibly phasing out our state’s income tax. The tax cuts from the regular session were just the first step of many. Once the income tax is fully eliminated, our state will be more competitive with neighboring states, and small businesses will be better positioned to create jobs, raise wages, and expand their operations. We look forward to working with lawmakers to ensure small businesses can continue to thrive."

Background:

NFIB Arkansas supported the $186 million tax relief passed during the 94th General Assembly’s Regular Session, which was retroactive and went into effect on January 1, 2023. The tax reform decreased the individual top rate from 4.9% to 4.7%. For Arkansas-based corporations, as well as those domiciled outside the state, the tax rate decreased from 5.3% to 5.1%. 

In today’s press conference, Governor Sanders announced her intent to support legislation that would cut personal income taxes by $250 million and corporate taxes by $58 million. This would result in a top rate of 4.4% and 4.8%, respectively. The Governor also announced that the legislation would establish a reserve fund of $155 million that would be available to those making less than $90,000, as the state works to phase out the state income tax. 
 

STATE CAPITOL WEEK IN REVIEW FROM SENATOR MATT STONE
September 8, 2023
LITTLE ROCK – Thanks to a Senate bill that became law earlier this year, thousands of Arkansas students will qualify for free lunches at school.

Act 656 of 2023 was approved by an overwhelming majority of senators. It benefits children from families with low incomes by eliminating the requirement that they pay a reduced price for lunch. Instead, lunch is free.

If their family income is below 130 percent of the federal poverty level, children qualify for free meals. That equates to an income of $39,000 for a family of four.

Children in a family of four qualify for reduced priced meals if their income is more than $39,000 but less than $55,550 a year. That is between 130 percent and 185 percent of the federal poverty level. The maximum amount that schools may charge for a reduced priced lunch is 40 cents.

During the height of the Covid pandemic school meals were free to all students due to waivers in federal nutrition regulations. Those waivers have expired and schools are returning to the guidelines that were in place before the pandemic. Some parents need a reminder that they need to apply in order for their children to qualify for free lunches.

The application is free and the paperwork isn’t difficult to fill out. Although the school year has already begun, it’s not too late to apply. In fact, a family can apply midway through the school year if their financial situation changes. School officials are required to keep your financial information confidential.

Once the application is approved, nothing about the children’s menu will change. They still will able to choose from the same menu options as students who pay full fare for meals.

There are additional benefits for applying. Students from low-income families may qualify for lower fees on college applications, and lower fees for taking standardized tests like Advanced Placement exams and college entrance tests like the ACT and the SAT. Some schools lower the fees that may be charged for participating in athletics and other varsity activities.

Last year about 46,000 students in Arkansas qualified for reduced-priced meals. There are about 477,000 students in Arkansas schools from kindergarten through grade twelve.

Under Act 656, the state Education Department shall report every year to legislators on the Senate and House Education Committees by November 15. The report shall be an overview of the state’s school nutrition programs, with figures on how many children are approved and how many are denied free lunches.

Legislative auditors will audit the state’s school nutrition program by December 15, 2023, to determine the extent of school districts’ participation in free lunch programs.

Revenue Report

During the first two months of the state fiscal year, tax revenue came in at 3.2 percent above forecast. That amounts to about $33.2 million more than predicted by state budget officials.

Net revenues in all categories were above forecast. The increase in sales tax revenue was driven by purchases of motor vehicles, spending at restaurants and sales of retail items.

The state fiscal year began on July 1. We are now in Fiscal Year 2024.
 

COTTON: DOD’S USE OF “THEMSELF” IN MILITARY AWARDS SHOWS MISPLACED PRIORITIES
Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) today sent a letter to Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin criticizing the Department of Defense’s (DoD) decision to use “gender neutral” language in decoration and award citations. Specifically, DoD will incorporate “themself” instead of “himself” or “herself.”

In part, Senator Cotton wrote:

“The Department’s embrace of far-left gender ideology doesn’t merely subvert the English language in ways that would astonish George Orwell. Worse, it exemplifies a Pentagon leadership consumed by the fads of the faculty lounge at a time when the Army can’t hit its recruiting goals, the Navy can’t keep ships out of dry dock, and the Air Force can’t find spare parts for planes.”

Full text of the letter may be found below.

September 8, 2023

 Secretary Lloyd J. Austin
Department of Defense
1000 Defense Pentagon
Washington, DC 22202

Dear Mr.[1] Secretary,

I write regarding the Department’s decision to incorporate “gender neutral” language into decoration and award citations. Our military apparently will now use “themself”—which is not even a word, I hasten to add—instead of “himself” or “herself” to describe heroic or distinguished actions. Here is the absurd model language:

“(Rank) First M. Last, Jr., United States (Military Service), distinguished themself by superior meritorious service in a position of significant responsibility as (position and duty assignment), from (month year) to (month year).”

The previous guidance simply referred to servicemembers as “himself or herself.” And, I want to stress, this language isn’t referring to unspecified personnel in the abstract or large numbers of troops—it refers to a specific, named person whose “preferred gender” is presumably known. 

On a related matter, by the way, the Secretary of the Army apparently disagrees with this gender-neutral approach because she—or should I say “xe” to be safe?—continues to man the ramparts against gender-neutral physical-fitness standards required by last year’s defense bill.

The Department’s embrace of far-left gender ideology doesn’t merely subvert the English language in ways that would astonish George Orwell. Worse, it exemplifies a Pentagon leadership consumed by the fads of the faculty lounge at a time when the Army can’t hit its recruiting goals, the Navy can’t keep ships out of dry dock, and the Air Force can’t find spare parts for planes.

Please answer the following questions no later than 5:00 p.m. on September 15, 2023:
1.     Did you personally approve the inclusion of Change 5 in the Manual of Military Decorations and Awards? If not, when did you first learn of the change?
2.     Under this updated guidance, may servicemembers request the use of the male or female pronoun on their award citations and at promotion and retirement ceremonies? How will those requests be treated?
3.     What other official documentation within DoD requires gender-neutral language, such as the replacement of “himself” and “herself” with “themself”?

I also would welcome a reply that this whole episode was just a practical joke, or a decision you immediately reversed when it came to your attention.

[1] If I may be so bold as to assume your “preferred gender.”

BOOZMAN CALLS FOR AGRICULTURE PFAS LIABILITY PROTECTIONS
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR), Ranking Member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, is fighting to deliver certainty to the agriculture community as Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rulemaking threatens the industry.

In August 2022, the EPA proposed a rule to designate per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) compounds as hazardous substances under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA) which would subject any entity with PFAS contamination to potential CERCLA liability from the EPA and third parties.

We must “protect farmers, ranchers and water utilities not directly responsible for PFAS contamination from being potentially held liable by the EPA or subject to sweeping private legal action that could wreak havoc on their ability to operate,” Boozman said in a Senate Environment and Public Works hearing Thursday.

Boozman is working to ensure farmers, ranchers and rural communities are not held liable under EPA’s misguided rulemaking.

In May, Boozman joined a package of legislative initiatives spearheaded by Sen. Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) to protect industries and municipalities from liability claims if the EPA designated PFAS compounds as hazardous substances. The covered entities in the bills either do not contribute to PFAS contamination or are required to use PFAS-containing substances through regulations.

ATTORNEY GENERAL GRIFFIN REQUESTS REVIEW OF SAFE ACT CASE BY FULL EIGHTH CIRCUIT
Griffin: ‘I am asking the full Eighth Circuit to hear our appeal now’
LITTLE ROCK – Attorney General Tim Griffin today announced that he filed a petition seeking review by the full United States Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit in Brandt v. Griffin, the litigation defending Act 626 of 2021, the Save Adolescents From Experimentation (SAFE) Act. After filing the petition, Griffin issued the following statement:
 
“I am asking the full Eighth Circuit to hear our appeal now rather than assigning this case to a three-judge panel. Two other federal courts of appeal have allowed similar laws protecting children from experimental gender-transition procedures in Tennessee, Kentucky and Alabama to go into effect. Those decisions demonstrate that last year’s three-judge panel decision upholding an order blocking Arkansas’s law was erroneous, and that’s why I am asking the entire court to overrule that decision.”

The South Arkansas Arts Center will launch the 2023-2024 season of Art Talks with Gay Bechtelheimer on September 14 at 6:30 pm. Pablo Picasso, whose universal presence and profound artistic genius continue to influence art and culture, will be the ART TALK TO FOCUS ON PABLO PICASSO  subject of the first Art Talk.  

These free, relaxed lectures are intended to present art and art history in an entertaining and enjoyable format to people of all ages and backgrounds. The evening begins with refreshments in the gallery, before Bechtelheimer’s presentation from the stage. 

This year, the three part series will highlight the European modernists, Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, and the German Expressionists, whose work transformed conventional methods of creating art in the 20th century. The Picasso lecture, sponsored by Melinda and Michael Verdesca, will provide just a glimpse into the artist’s incredible body of work.

“The most difficult aspect of Picasso is trying to whittle the vastness of his oeuvre into a few sentences or a 45-60 minute art talk,” says Bechtelheimer. “Guests will leave wanting to know and see more of his life and work.”

The event is free of charge and is presented with open seating. Reservations are encouraged; call 870-862-5474 or visit saac-arts.org.
 

ATTORNEY GENERAL GRIFFIN JOINS 54-AG COALITION URGING CONGRESS TO STUDY AI AND ITS HARMFUL EFFECTS ON CHILDREN
Griffin: ‘As technology advances, our means of protecting our children from harm must also advance’
LITTLE ROCK – Attorney General Tim Griffin today joined a bipartisan coalition of attorneys general from 54 states and territories calling on Congress to establish an expert commission to study the ways in which artificial intelligence can be used to exploit children. Griffin issued the following statement:

“I have vowed to fight the exploitation of children on every front—including taking on artificial intelligence. AI poses a very real threat to our children. This ‘new frontier for abuse’ opens the door for children to be exploited in new ways, including publishing their location and mimicking their voice and likeness in sexual or other objectionable content.

“As technology advances, our means of protecting our children from harm must also advance. That’s why I’ve joined this bipartisan effort to call on Congress to study this issue and eventually strengthen our laws related to internet crimes against children. My office’s Special Investigations Division and Special Prosecutions Division deal with such crimes daily, and I will continue to do everything I can to ensure the safety of our children.”

The letter references several ways in which AI could pose a threat to children, including its “being used to generate child sexual abuse material (CSAM). For example, AI tools can rapidly and easily create ‘deepfakes’ by studying real photographs of abused children to generate new images showing those children in sexual positions. This involves overlaying the face of one person on the body of another. Deepfakes can also be generated by overlaying photographs of otherwise unvictimized children on the internet with photographs of abused children to create new CSAM involving the previously unharmed children.”
 

ART TALK TO FOCUS ON PABLO PICASSO 
The South Arkansas Arts Center will launch the 2023-2024 season of Art Talks with Gay Bechtelheimer on September 14 at 6:30 pm. Pablo Picasso, whose universal presence and profound artistic genius continue to influence art and culture, will be the subject of the first Art Talk.  

These free, relaxed lectures are intended to present art and art history in an entertaining and enjoyable format to people of all ages and backgrounds. The evening begins with refreshments in the gallery, before Bechtelheimer’s presentation from the stage. 

This year, the three part series will highlight the European modernists, Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, and the German Expressionists, whose work transformed conventional methods of creating art in the 20th century. The Picasso lecture, sponsored by Melinda and Michael Verdesca, will provide just a glimpse into the artist’s incredible body of work.

“The most difficult aspect of Picasso is trying to whittle the vastness of his oeuvre into a few sentences or a 45-60 minute art talk,” says Bechtelheimer. “Guests will leave wanting to know and see more of his life and work.”

The event is free of charge and is presented with open seating. Reservations are encouraged; call 870-862-5474 or visit saac-arts.org.
 

COACH PITTMAN HELPS KICK OFF ASP DEFENSIVE LINE RECRUITMENT CAMPAIGN
September 1, 2023
Arkansas Razorbacks Coach Sam Pittman and Razorbacks football standout David Bazzel are supporting Arkansas State Police by rolling out a new recruitment video in time for Labor Day weekend.

"I'm recruiting for Arkansas State Police.They're Arkansas' real defensive line," Coach Pittman says playfully in the video. 

The social media campaign is part of the ASP's effort to embrace its heritage and return to the traditions of the Big Hat Law. The ASP is committed to remaining true to the original 1935-era Ranger values by staying focused on the ASP’s modern mission: Protecting the lives and property of Arkansans through law enforcement services.

Preparations are underway for Troop School 2024-A, a 10-week certified officer school, scheduled to begin February 18. 

Applicants must have completed a law enforcement academy and be off probation with their current agency by the training start date.

Visit the ASP Recruitment Page for details on the application process.

DEADLINE TO APPLY:
September 17, 2023 – 11:59 p.m.

BIG HAT LAW IS BACK. Do you have what it takes to wear one?

 

ARKANSAS SECRETARY OF STATE SEEKING DESIGN SUBMISSIONS FOR MONUMENT
Deadline for Submissions is September 30th
LITTLE ROCK, ARK.) – Act 310 of the 2023 Legislative Session, the Monument to Unborn Children Display Act, authorizes the Secretary of State to permit and arrange placement on the State Capitol grounds of a suitable monument commemorating unborn children aborted during the era of Roe v. Wade (1973).

The Capitol Arts and Grounds Commission shall oversee the selection of the artist and design of the monument with input from pro-life groups in Arkansas, and the Secretary of State shall have final approval of the selection of the artist and design of the monument selected by the commission prior to construction.

Interested artists and designers may submit their designs to Michael Harry, 500 Woodlane Ave., Ste. 256, Little Rock, AR 72201, or by email to michael.harry@sos.arkansas.gov. The deadline for submission is by close of business on September 30, 2023

 

WESTERMAN ANNOUNCES NEW SENIOR STAFF TRANSITIONS
WASHINGTON - Congressman Bruce Westerman (AR-04) released the following statement, announcing a new District Director, Cody Burkham, and a new Legislative Director, Murray Miller. 

“Since 2021, Murray Miller has been a valuable member of our team. Murray served as Senior Legislative Assistant with integrity and ambition, and I’m excited to announce that she will be stepping into the role of Legislative Director. Under her leadership, our legislative team will continue their work to advance forward-thinking solutions for the 4th District.

“I’m thrilled to welcome Cody Burkham back to Team Westerman to assume the role of District Director. A native Arkansan, Cody brings a wealth of knowledge to the position, and I look forward to working with him in this capacity. One of my top priorities as Congressman for the 4th District is constituent services, and Cody will be a great fit in leading our District staff in this effort.

“Murray and Cody are proven leaders. I look forward to seeing how they will lead Team Westerman alongside my Chief of Staff, Nancy Peele, and the rest of our communications, operations, legislative, and district staff.”

FARMERS BANK & TRUST DISTINGUISHED SPEAKER SERIES TO FEATURE TIM TEBOW ON OCTOBER 10, 2023
Two-time national champion, first-round NFL draft pick, and Heisman Trophy winner Tim Tebow is scheduled to present at the 18th annual Farmers Bank & Trust Distinguished Speaker Series on Tuesday, October 10, 2023, at the W.T. Watson Athletic Center at Southern Arkansas University. 

The football star and New York Times Bestselling author established the Tim Tebow Foundation in 2010, a charitable organization that helps make dreams come true for children with life-threatening illnesses. His foundation also builds Timmy’s Playrooms in children’s hospitals; provides life-changing surgeries to children in the Philippines through the Tebow CURE Hospital; sponsors Night to Shine, a nationwide prom and worldwide movement for people with special needs; and provides care for orphans in six countries and adoption aid grants for families who choose to adopt an international child with special needs. 

Proceeds from the annual Farmers Bank & Trust Distinguished Speaker Series fund the Dr. Bob Burns Distinguished Speaker Scholarship Endowment that provides annual scholarships to deserving students who are building their future by obtaining their education at SAU.

A private reception will be held with Tebow at 5:30 p.m. at the Farmers Bank & Trust main bank in Magnolia. 

The dinner and lecture will follow at 7 p.m. in the W.T. Watson Athletic Center.

Sponsorship opportunities are offered through the SAU Foundation.

A Gold Sponsorship, $2,500, includes the following: 10 tickets to the dinner, lecture and pre-dinner reception; premium dinner seating in the Gold Section with name or corporate logo prominently displayed on table; five premium parking passes; and, recognition during the event and in the program.

A Blue Sponsorship, $1000, includes the following: eight tickets to the dinner and lecture, two tickets to the pre-dinner reception, premium seating in the Blue Section with name or corporate logo prominently displayed on table, one premium parking pass, and recognition during the event and in the program.

Individual tickets to the reception, dinner, and lecture are $250 while dinner and lecture tickets are $125.

Reserve your table or ticket now at www.saudevelopment.com/FBT or by calling (870) 235-4287.

ASP RETURNS ESCAPEE AND ACCOMPLICES TO ARKANSAS
FORREST CITY -- At approximately 9:30 p.m. on Wednesday, August 30, 2023, an Arkansas State Police aircraft landed in east Arkansas carrying recaptured inmate Samuel Paul Hartman, 39, Hartman’s wife Misty Hartman, 39, and his mother Linda Annette White, 61.

ASP Criminal Investigation Division (CID) nvestigators interviewed Hartman before returning him to Arkansas Department of Corrections custody. The two women, also interviewed by ASP CID, were transported to the Woodruff County Jail.

ASP Troopers were responsible for securely transporting the Hartmans and White from West Virginia to Arkansas. The trio remained in ASP custody until approximately 1 a.m. today.

Hartman, who had been serving a life sentence at East Arkansas Regional Unit for rape, escaped on August 12, 2022, while on a work detail in a field near the detention facility, located in Brickeys.

The three were captured on Tuesday, August 29, at a motel in Lewisburg, West Virginia.  The U.S. Marshals, West Virginia State Police, Lewisburg Police Department and Greenbrier County Sheriff’s Office took them into custody.

Also taken into custody was White’s boyfriend Rodney Trent, 52, of Lester, West Virginia. The two women are alleged to have helped Hartman escape using a pickup truck and jet skis. Trent faces felony charges for allegedly harboring a sex offender and for assisting the trio while on the run.

A comprehensive investigation is underway. Additional information will be released as it becomes available.
 

CAPITOL DISPLAY HONORS FAMILIES OF FALLEN SERVICE MEMBERS
Temporary Art Exhibit Open August 30th Through September 8th
LITTLE ROCK, ARK.) – Arkansas Secretary of State John Thurston is honored to host a new temporary display at the State Capitol that pays tribute to fallen soldiers. The art exhibit entitled, Artistic Expression Through Grief: Hearts of our Heroes, is sponsored by Hearts of our Heroes, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing long-term support to families of fallen military service members.

Secretary Thurston said, "We are proud to work with military, veteran, and family support organizations at the Capitol. They represent the best of us and we want them to know they are always welcome here."

The display will be available for viewing in the fourth floor gallery until September 8th.

The Hearts of our Heroes Gala is Saturday, September 9th, 2023 and many of these art pieces were made and/or donated by survivors to share with those attending the gala.  

For more information on Hearts of our Heroes, visit www.heartsofourheroes.org

(LITTLE ROCK, ARK.) – Arkansas Secretary of State John Thurston is honored to host a new temporary display at the State Capitol that pays tribute to fallen soldiers. The art exhibit entitled, Artistic Expression Through Grief: Hearts of our Heroes, is sponsored by Hearts of our Heroes, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing long-term support to families of fallen military service members.

Secretary Thurston said, "We are proud to work with military, veteran, and family support organizations at the Capitol. They represent the best of us and we want them to know they are always welcome here."
 

2023 ARKANSAS DUCK STAMP UNVEILED  
Landmark Cache River featured in new artwork to be used on duck stamps and prints with proceeds going toward conservation work.
LITTLE ROCK — The 2023 Arkansas duck stamp was unveiled Aug. 26 during the 32nd annual Arkansas Outdoor Hall of Fame Banquet. The unveiling was witnessed by a record-breaking crowd of 1,800 gathered at the Little Rock Convention Center.

Arkansas artist Justin Madding of Danville created the artwork for the stamp entitled "Pintails Over Penn Bay." The scene depicts pintail ducks making their way to a small cove nestled in a bend of the treasured Cache River. 

"Being asked to paint the Arkansas duck stamp is a dream come true for me," Madding said. "To think that my art will benefit conservation efforts across the state I so dearly love is beyond thrilling.  It was an honor." 

Madding's art celebrates not only the legacy of hunting on Penn Bay but the Cache River Bottoms which has been as a sportsmen's paradise for generations of Arkansans.

"The scene reminds me of my childhood and captures what the Arkansas outdoors is all about," said TJ Lawhon, who chaired the banquet event with his wife, Mandy. "The Cache River is the lifeblood for communities across the region, supporting some of the largest contiguous bottomland hardwood forests remaining in North America. This area is vital to migratory birds and waterfowl and is a place we know well as a family along with thousands of hunters, anglers and wildlife enthusiasts."

This is Arkansas’s 42nd annual state duck stamp. In recent years, more than 100,000 state duck stamps have been sold annually, generating more than $1 million for conservation in The Natural State. The stamps and associated prints are an annual tradition for many hunting families and are prized by collectors in Arkansas and beyond. 

“The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission and Foundation continue the tradition of the duck stamp to remind Arkansans of our waterfowl legacy and celebrate the connection between Arkansans, world-renowned habitat and ducks," said Austin Booth, director of the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. "The Cache River is a special place for so many Arkansans to enjoy and make lifelong memories. I am excited that it is featured on this year's stamp."

The unveiling was just one event on the banquet's itinerary and also included recognition of this year's Arkansas Outdoor Hall of Fame inductees, silent auction, raffle and dinner. All told, the event raised $575,000 with which the AGFF supports AGFC initiatives as well as its own programming. Those wishing to support the group's work to improve habitat, access and outdoor activities for youth are asked to visit AGFC.com and purchase a waterfowl stamp for $7 for an Arkansas resident. Collectible duck stamp prints can be purchased by visiting www.arduckstamp.com.
 

CONVICTED FELON SENTENCED TO MORE THAN 7 YEARS IN FEDERAL PRISON FOR FIREARMS POSSESSION
HOT SPRINGS – A Hot Springs man was sentenced yesterday to 90 months in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release on one count of being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm. The Honorable Chief Judge Susan O. Hickey presided over the sentencing hearing in the United States District Court in Hot Springs.

According to court documents, on or about July 11, 2021, officers with the Hot Springs Police Department were dispatched to a residential neighborhood after receiving a report of a drive-by shooting on a residence.  Shortly after arrival to the area, Steven D. Young, age 41, arrived at the residence demanding to know who shot up his house.

As Young excited his vehicle, officers observed a .45 caliber handgun in the driver’s side floorboard.  Young was subsequently arrested.  The firearm was seized and determined to be loaded with live rounds of ammunition and to have previously been reported stolen. Investigating officers determined Young was a felon and prohibited from possessing firearms.

A Special Agent with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco & Firearms (ATF) confirmed that the firearm was manufactured outside the State of Arkansas and, thus, had traveled in interstate commerce.

U.S. Attorney David Clay Fowlkes of the Western District of Arkansas made the announcement. The Hot Springs Police Department and the ATF investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Bryan Achorn prosecuted the case.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

 

HOPE MAN SENTENCED TO MORE THAN 17 YEARS IN FEDERAL PRISON FOR DRUG TRAFFICKING
HOT SPRINGS – A Hope, Arkansas man was sentenced yesterday to 210 months in prison followed by 4 years of supervised release on one count of Possession of More Than Five (5) Grams of Methamphetamine with the Intent to Distribute. The Honorable Chief Judge Susan O. Hickey presided over the sentencing hearing in the U.S. District Court in Hot Springs.

According to court documents, Kaiven Wesley, age 42, was identified by law enforcement to be part of a Drug Trafficking Organization (DTO) distributing methamphetamine in the Malvern, Arkansas, geographical area.  The Drug Trafficking Organization was led by Jedadire Leshawn Nellums, age 46, who was sentenced to 240 months in federal prison in May of 2023.

On August 17, 2020, searches were conducted at multiple properties associated with the Nellums’ DTO, resulting in investigators locating and seizing over 1,400 grams of pure methamphetamine.   Additionally, Wesley was arrested on that same date and found to be in possession of an additional 49.04 grams of pure methamphetamine.

U.S. Attorney David Clay Fowlkes of the Western District of Arkansas made the announcement. The Drug Enforcement Administration investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Bryan Achorn prosecuted the case.

This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

SOUTH ARKANSAS ARTS CENTER OPENS TRAVELING EXHIBIT "A CAST OF BLUES"
Beginning Tuesday, September 5, visitors to the South Arkansas Arts Center's Merkle and Price Galleries will have the opportunity to experience the traveling art exhibit "A Cast of Blues." The exhibit is free to the public and will be on display at SAAC from 9am to 5pm, Monday-Friday, September 5-October 6. There will be an opening reception for this interactive and hands-on exhibition on Thursday, September 7 from 5:30-7:00pm.

A celebration of Mississippi’s rich musical heritage, "A Cast of Blues" features 15 resin-cast masks of blues-legends created by artist Sharon McConnell-Dickerson, as well as 15 color photographs of performers and of juke joints by acclaimed photographer Ken Murphy. The exhibition’s compilation of casts and photos create a compelling portrait of the men and women who defined—and continue to shape—the tradition of Mississippi blues.

The exhibition is fully accessible to all visitors, featuring braille labels and educational materials as well as a closed-captioned film about the Cast of Blues project. In addition, visitors are encouraged to touch the resin-cast masks. Says McConnell-Dickerson, “As a sculptural and visual art experience, feeling the life-made casts of these individuals and their facial expressions transfers their experiences directly to our fingertips.”  

McConnell-Dickerson, who is visually impaired, has said, “a life-cast is like a 3-D photograph to someone who is blind. It captures the flesh, muscle, bone, hair, and subtle expressions of emotion. I wanted to discover the faces behind the music I love, so I went to Mississippi to map out the visages of the real Delta blues men and women.”

Ken Murphy’s photographs are selected from the groundbreaking book Mississippi: State of Blues (published 2010 by Proteus/Ken Murphy Publishing). A longtime Mississippi resident, Murphy captures the essence of the blues through highly detailed, panoramic color pictures.  

Organized and toured by ExhibitsUSA, a national part of Mid-America Arts Alliance, "A Cast of Blues" was curated by Chuck Haddix, music historian, author, radio personality, and director of the Marr Sound Archives at the University of Missouri-Kansas City. ExhibitsUSA sends more than 25 exhibitions on tour to more than 100 small- and midsized communities every year. Based in Kansas City, Missouri, Mid-America is the oldest nonprofit regional arts organization in the United States. More information is available at www.maaa.org and www.eusa.org.

For more information about "A Cast of Blues" exhibit or to schedule a school tour, please call the SAAC office at 870-862-5474 or visit the website at www.saac-arts.org. South Arkansas Arts Center is located at 110 East Fifth Street, El Dorado, Arkansas.

SOUTH ARKANSAS ARTIST KACI MERRELL EXHIBIT OPENING AT SAAC  
The South Arkansas Arts Center welcomes south Arkansas artist Kaci Merrell and her exhibition "Eccentric Treasures" to the Lobby Gallery September 6 - October 13. There will be an artist's reception on Thursday, September 7 from 5:30pm-7:00pm. 

Merrell focuses on whimsical subjects using surrealism, "I use a bold, high intensity color scheme to highlight the beauty in objects that often go overlooked. I hope to appeal to those who are captivated by magic, fantasy, and a little mystery." Merrell strives for her audience to discover their own interpretations of what her art means to them, and it is her hope that everyone who views her art gives themselves permission to "feel." Outside of being a wife and mother, creating is her security and her lifeline. Kaci feels things very deeply and tries to convey these emotions in her pieces with moods such as joy, wholesomeness, somberness, and intrigue.  

Merrell is a self-taught, mixed media artist from Magnolia Arkansas. In 2020, she moved to El Dorado looking for a fresh start and has since been looking to get more involved in the arts. Even from a young age, art has been a great influence in her life. Her grandfather, also an artist, helped nurture and sculpt her talents from a very young age and always encouraged her to pursue art as a career. 

In her spare time, she likes to get involved in activities in her own hometown of Magnolia. She has competed for a number of years in the Magnolia Blossom Festival Sidewalk art show and has commissioned a number of art pieces over the past 10 years. Sharing her art with the community is her dream.

For more information on the Kaci Merrell exhibit at the South Arkansas Arts Center, please call the SAAC office at 870-862-5474 or visit the website at www.saac-arts.org. SAAC is located at 110 East Fifth Street, El Dorado, Arkansas.

UPDATE: CAMDEN FIRE DPARTMENT REPORTS TWO FATALITIES IN WEDNESDAY HOUSE FIRE
CAMDEN — A Wednesday structure fire in Camden resulted in the deaths of two people. The Camden Fire Department was dispatched at 2:18 p.m. Wednesday afternoon (August 23) to a reported residential fire with possibly trapped victims in the 100 block of Fairview Road SE.

Firefighters arrived on scene within three minutes — at 2:21 p.m. — finding heavy fire and smoke throughout the structure. Search and rescue efforts began immediately with firefighters entering the residence through a bedroom window, where an 84-year-old female victim was located. She was removed from the structure, and CPR
and other life-saving measures were started by firefighters on scene. This victim was transported by ambulance to Ouachita County Medical Center, where she was later pronounced dead.

Upon reentering the structure to continue searching, the second victim, a 74-year-old male, was also located. This victim was pronounced dead on scene by the Ouachita County Coroner’s Office.

After a fire department investigation into the origin and cause of the fire, it was determined that the fire was accidental in nature, starting in the  back bedroom of the home. Several extension cords were found with evidence of arcing and fusing. These extension cords were powering multiple appliances, including an air conditioner, which caused these cords to overheat and fail, igniting clothes and other household materials in the vicinity.

A total of 18 firefighters responded to the incident. Weather conditions were hot and humid at the time of the incident, with temperatures up to 102 degrees, and heat indexes reaching 117 degrees. Four were treated on scene for heat exhaustion.

The Camden Fire Department reminds the public that extension cords are designed for temporary use only, and should never be used to connect major appliances or other heavy electrical loads, as this canlead to overheating of the cord and connected equipment, increasing the risk of fire and electrical shock.

 When extension cords are used, they should not be run through walls, windows, doors, ceilings, or floors, and never covered with carpets, rugs, clothes, or other materials. In addition, make sure you have working smoke alarms throughout your home or business. Nationwide, approximately 60% of fire deaths happen in homes without working smoke alarms.

 

CITY OF CAMDEN HOLIDAY SCHEDULE
The City of Camden Offices and the Public Works offices will be closed on Monday, September 4, 2023, to observe the Labor Day Holiday.

No special picks will be done on that day. Garbage pickup will run the regular schedule for both commercial and residential. The City asks that all trash carts be placed curbside as soon as possible to avoid getting missed.

Thanks to all and the City of Camden Officials hope everyone enjoys their holiday

 

OUACHITA COUNTY HOLIDAY SCHEDULE
Monday September 4, 2023 the Ouachita County Courthouse and the Extension office will be closed on that day for Labor Day.

The Sanitation Department will run on regular schedule. They will not observe the Holiday.
 

SHADE TREES ON PLAYGROUNDS PROGRAM ACCEPTING SCHOOL APPLICATIONS THROUGH SEPTEMBER 15
LITTLE ROCK, AR— The Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Forestry Division (Forestry Division) is accepting applications for the 2023 Shade Trees on Playground (STOP) program through September 15, 2023. Arkansas schools needing additional shade on playgrounds can find the STOP program application and guidelines at agriculture.arkansas.gov/forestry/urban-community-forestry/stop-program/.

 

Selected schools receive up to five Arkansas native shade trees, mulch, watering supplies, and planting guidelines. Forestry Division staff will help plant the trees during a ceremony with students this fall.

The STOP program began 21 years ago to help lower adult skin care risk by reducing childhood exposure to direct sunlight on school playgrounds. Since then, approximately 165 Arkansas schools have received trees. The STOP program also provides teachers with curriculum resources about the environmental benefits of trees, how shade reduces skin cancer risks, and tips for keeping trees healthy.

“The STOP program combines hands-on, outdoor experiences with classroom curriculum about the importance of trees and how to care for trees,” said Kristine Kimbro, Urban and Community Forestry Coordinator. “We hope this program not only improves the health of Arkansas students but also leaves a lasting impression about the value of community trees and how to be good stewards of our natural resources.”

Trees native to Arkansas are chosen by Forestry Division staff to fit the region and conditions of each playground. Sycamores, oaks, tulip poplars, and black gum trees are common species for the program.

To participate in the STOP program, a school must meet the criteria below:

Have a lack of shade on a school playground.
Participate in a STOP workshop to be held virtually on October 2, 2023.
Use provided curriculum resource materials to emphasize the importance of trees during the week(s) leading up to the planting event.
Involve students in tree-related projects that culminate with a school-wide planting ceremony.
Hold a planting ceremony prior to December 21, 2023.
Have a plan for maintaining trees after planting.

Applicants may be any public or private Arkansas school serving grades pre-K through 12, or a non-traditional educational facility such as a juvenile detention center, residential childcare institution, or long-term care facility.

Learn more about the STOP program at agriculture.arkansas.gov/forestry/urban-community-forestry/stop-program/. For more information, please contact Kristine Kimbro at kristine.kimbro@agriculture.arkansas.gov or Harold Fisher at harold.fisher@agriculture.arkansas.gov.

The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies and programs for Arkansas agriculture, forestry, and natural resources to keep its farmers and ranchers competitive in national and international markets while conserving natural resources and ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation. Visit agriculture.arkansas.gov/. The Arkansas Department of Agriculture offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
 

ARKANSAS PROSTATE CANCER FOUNDATION KICKS OFF PROSTATE CANCER AWARENESS MONTH
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – The Arkansas Prostate Cancer Foundation (APCF) and prostate cancer survivors will join together on August 29 in advance of September to kick off Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. The September month-long effort includes a statewide awareness campaign and FREE screening events to help ensure that no man has to face prostate cancer alone.

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer affecting men and the second leading cause of cancer deaths, but it’s nearly 100% survivable IF detected early. Pandemic lifestyle changes resulted in many men putting off their regular health exams, potentially allowing a treatable condition to grow deadly.  

The American Cancer Society estimates that 2,510 new cases of prostate cancer will be diagnosed in Arkansas this year, the third year in a row with new diagnoses running this high in Arkansas. Having a father or brother with prostate cancer more than doubles a man’s risk of developing the disease and the risk of prostate cancer rises rapidly after age 50. Additionally, according to Dr. William Dahut, chief scientific officer at the American Cancer Society, “the incidence rate of prostate cancer in African American men is 70% higher than in White men and prostate cancer mortality rates in Black men are approximately two to four times higher than those in every other racial and ethnic group.” 

Please join the Arkansas Prostate Cancer Foundation and survivors from across the state to raise awareness, announce local screenings and make sure Arkansas men get the support they need.

What :    Prostate Cancer Awareness Month Kickoff Event
When:    Tuesday, August 29 at 11 a.m. CT
Where:  Old Supreme Court Room
               Arkansas State Capitol
               500 Woodlane Street
               Little Rock, AR 72201
Who:     Chris Collier, executive director, Arkansas Prostate Cancer Foundation
               Dr. Tim Langford, Head of Urology, UAMS
               John Wiley, prostate cancer survivor and APCF board member
               Julie Wiedower Kaylor, certified genetic counselor, Director of Medical Affairs for Guardant Health             
               managed care team, APCF board member

“Prostate cancer screening can be as easy as a simple blood test and we know it can save lives,” said Chris Collier, executive director of the Arkansas Prostate Cancer Foundation. “The key to surviving, though, is catching it early. We hope communities across the state can join us this September to make sure that no Arkansan has to face prostate cancer alone.”
 

60TH ANNUAL ARKANSAS STATE CHAMPIONSHIP HORSE SHOW SET FOR LABOR DAY WEEKEND 
Annual event returns to the Arkansas State Fairgrounds and Barton Coliseum 
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (August 29, 2023) — In 2023 The Arkansas State Championship Horse Show will celebrate its 60th anniversary in Little Rock on September 1 through 4. The event will pay tribute to the three visionary founding associations and their enduring legacy, marking six decades of equestrian excellence and camaraderie. 

The Arkansas State Championship Horse Show has been a cornerstone of competitive horsemanship, attracting participants and spectators from all corners of the state. The Arkansas State Championship Horse Show is held every year on Labor Day weekend at Barton Coliseum in Little Rock. The competition starts on Friday, September 1 and goes through Monday, September 4, in a range of 42 classes. 

The competition promises to captivate audiences and challenge contestants, culminating in the prestigious title of Champion – the ultimate state accolade. Last year's event saw a remarkable surge in participation, with over 1,600 entries spanning various categories. A staggering 700 horses vied for supremacy, while more than 4,000 enthusiastic spectators witnessed the spectacle over the four-day event. 

“The love for horses is seen over and over at all ages,” said Jamie Busby, Public Relations Representative for the Arkansas State Championship Horse Show Association. “Small kids’ eyes shine bright while receiving help from the riders that have been around for years. Each class champion takes pride in being named the best Arkansas has and enjoys those bragging rights for a full year.” 

The devotion of sponsors, vendors, and the entire show team is the driving force behind the event's remarkable growth and sustained success. This celebration of equine excellence is a testament to the shared passion that unites the community, highlighting the profound role that horses and horsemanship play in the cultural fabric of Arkansas. 

For more information, please contact Jamie Busby at 870-270-9248. 

ABOUT ARKANSAS STATE CHAMPIONSHIP HORSE SHOW 
Created in 1963, the Arkansas State Championship Horse Show Association is home to 12 associations throughout Arkansas. Each association hosts over 40 equine events in varied disciplines from judged western and gaited classes to timed events. The show season culminates Labor Day weekend with the largest open horse show in the United States, The Arkansas State Championship Horse Show. For more information, join the official Facebook page.

FARMERS BANK & TRUST ANNOUNCES SNAP YOUR TEAM CAMPAIGN
Magnolia, Ark. (Aug. 24, 2023) — Farmers Bank & Trust is proud to launch its “Snap Your Team” campaign. A new concept for the bank this year, Farmers Bank has launched 24 school spirit Snapchat filters for local high schools and universities. 

Anyone can access and use the Snapchat filters for free by scanning the QR code in the Farmers Bank & Trust football program ads, visiting www.myfarmers.bank/snapyourteam, or searching for their school within their Snapchat filters. Filters include a variety of school spirit mascot hats and team colors face paint. The filters were created locally with Southern Arkansas University professors and students.

The 24 schools included this year are Arkansas High, Ashdown, Benton, Broken Bow, Bryant, Camden, Chisum, De Queen, Hope, Idabel, Liberty Eylau, Magnolia, Malvern, Mineral Springs, Nashville, New Boston, Paris, TX, Pleasant Grove, Prairiland, Prescott, Prosper, Southern Arkansas University, Spring Hill, and Texas High.

“We are always looking for ways to be more than a logo on your debit card or more than a bank in our communities,” said Rachael Potter, Director of Marketing at Farmers Bank & Trust. “Supporting local education and athletics with our Snap Your Team campaign investment is a new, exciting way for Farmers Bank & Trust to help cheer on our teams and families.”

To further show school spirit, Farmers Bank & Trust has a collection of over 50 school mascot instant-issue debit cards available for local high schools, colleges, and universities in their Arkansas, Texas, and Oklahoma footprint. Visit a Farmers Bank & Trust branch or open an account online to receive a school mascot debit card. 

OFFICIAL STATE HOLIDAY BULLETIN
The State of Arkansas will observe Labor Day as an official state holiday on Monday, September 4, 2023.  

State Capitol offices and state buildings will be closed.  However, the State Capitol building will be open to the public from 10:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.  

STATE CAPITOL WEEK IN REVIEW FROM SENATOR MATT STONE
August 25, 2023
LITTLE ROCK – Participation in athletics at Arkansas institutions of higher education has increased in recent years, even as total enrollment at colleges and universities has gone down.

About 3,900 students participated in athletics at ten universities and seven colleges two years ago, the most recent school year for which statistics are available. That was a gain of more than 300 students over the previous year and the highest participation ever for a single academic year.

Total enrollment last year was almost 148,000. That included graduate students, private institutions, nursing students and everyone studying law, medicine, pharmacy and other careers.

Over the previous ten-year period, total enrollment in Arkansas went down my more than 24,000 students. Enrollment figures for the fall semester of 2023 will be released soon.

The state Division of Higher Education collects mountains of data from the four-year universities and two-year colleges supported by public funds. When the Arkansas Higher Education Coordinating Board meets, its members are presented with a list of lengthy reports, tables, graphs and spreadsheets. For example, at its July meeting, the board’s agenda was 143 pages.

Football was the most popular sport for student athletes, with 1,015 participating. Baseball was second, with 595 students participating. Coming in a close third was track and cross country, with 587 students participating.

The fourth most popular sport was men’s basketball, with 263 student-athletes participating. Next was soccer with 244 participants, softball with 226, women’s basketball with 223 and volleyball with 196.

Golf had 180 student athletes participating, swimming had 120 and tennis had 95. In miscellaneous other sports there were a combined 146 participants.

Of all the participants in college sports in Arkansas, 56.2 percent, or 2,185 students, received a partial scholarship. Only 14.3 percent, or 558 students, received a full scholarship.

The University of Arkansas at Fayetteville had the most student athletes, with 525, followed by the University of Central Arkansas at Conway with 478. The third highest number of student athletes, 438, attended Southern Arkansas University in Magnolia.

Henderson State had 412 athletes and Arkansas State at Jonesboro had 387. The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff had 305 and Arkansas Tech at Russellville had 282. The University of Arkansas at Little Rock had 276 and the University of Arkansas at Monticello had 266. Finally, the University of Arkansas at Fort Smith had 180 student athletes.

The combined budgets of all the state-supported colleges and universities that offer intercollegiate athletics will be $237 million this school year, according to data that each campus submitted to the Board of Higher Education Coordinating Board.

Of the total $237 million in spending on collegiate athletics, the Razorback program at Fayetteville is by far the largest, accounting for $152 million. ASU at Jonesboro is second, with an athletic program budget of $19.5 million. UCA at Conway is third, with an athletic program budget of $15.6 million.

UALR will spend about $10.4 million on athletics this school year. UAPB will spend an estimated $7.4 million on athletics and SAU in Magnolia will spend $6 million.

FALL ARTS ACADEMY CLASSES OPEN FOR REGISTRATION AT SAAC 
It’s time for another thrilling artistic adventure with South Arkansas Arts Center’s fall 2023 season of classes! Now is the time to sign your kid up for lots of fun and learning. Classes will begin the week of September 11-14. Stop by SAAC or go to https://saac-arts.org/childrens-classes/ to register. Many of SAAC’s beloved long-time instructors will be returning, as well as some new faces.

Artists Michaela Gross, Katie Harwell, and Maria Villegas will be teaching visual art classes for students in Pre-K through the 12th grade. Classes offered are Visual Art, 3-D Art, and Studio Art.  
SAAC has two new instructors for our ballet classes offered, Laura Day and her senior assistant Karis Flurry, along with returning instructor Caroline Callaway. Ballet classes begin with Pre-Ballet for ages 3-4 through Ballet Levels 1-5 for K through grade 12.  

For the Computer Arts & Science courses, Instructor Mike Means will be returning with Art Meet Science and Graphic Art for second grade and up. Students will learn how to become champions through Graphic Art or take a new and fascinating look at the science world through the “Art Meet Science” class.  

Instructor Cassie Hickman is returning with her adorable “Mommy & Me Monday” class. This is a great class to make fun memories with your kids! This is for kids aging from 1-4 years old with adult participation required. The class has six sessions: 9/18, 10/2, 10/16, 10/30, 11/13, and 11/27.  

SAAC has plenty of theatre class options for your kids who want to be stars of the stage. Instructors Cassie Hickman and Kaila Emery will be returning, and joining them will be “Mr. Mike” (Mike Means) as well. Classes include different levels of Drama for Pre-K-6 grade and Costume Design for 4-12 grade, as well as Theatre Improv Class for 4-8 grade.  Kaila Emery will also be giving private acting lessons as a schedule on request course. 

The Drama Club for grades 7-12 are getting an early start with auditions hosted or their performance of Once Upon a Mattress: Youth Edition on August 29 and 31. Director Lynn Gunter and Music Director Cassie Hickman will lead this fun twist on the story of The Princess and The Pea. Performances are November 10-11.  

Class offerings and online registration are available on the SAAC website, www.saac-arts.org or by calling the office 870-862-5474 for more information. Registration is on a first come, first paid basis. Waiting lists are available if the class you are interested in is full. SAAC is located at 110 East 5th St, El Dorado, Arkansas.  

ARKANSAS DELEGATION SUPPORTS GOVERNOR’S REQUEST FOR MAJOR DISASTER DECLARATION WASHINGTON— U.S. Senators John Boozman and Tom Cotton—along with Congressmen Rick Crawford, French Hill, Steve Womack and Bruce Westerman—wrote to President Joe Biden urging him to support Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders’ request for a major disaster declaration for Arkansas, Faulkner, Lonoke, Mississippi, Poinsett, Pope and Pulaski Counties due to severe storms, tornadoes and straight-line winds on June 25, 2023.

“The resourcefulness and resilience of Arkansans in recent months have been impressive; however, as losses mount, the people of our great state hope the federal government will join in these restoration efforts,” members wrote in the letter.

The letter can be found below:

Dear Mr. President, 
On behalf of the State of Arkansas, we are writing to support Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders’ request to declare a major disaster, pursuant to the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief Act, as a result of severe storms, tornadoes, and straight-line winds that occurred on June 25, 2023.

As Governor Sanders noted in her request, these storms created enormous amounts of debris, extensive power outages and resulted in the tragic death of two citizens. Thunderstorm activity produced up to grapefruit-sized hail; 60-100 mile per hour wind gusts across Arkansas, Faulkner, Lonoke, Mississippi, Poinsett, and Pulaski Counties; and tornados in Pope and Pulaski Counties. Multiple counties reported widespread power outages, downed trees, and damage to homes. In the aftermath of the storms, many counties were left without power for days, with the heat index in the state reaching up to 115°F in some areas affected. 

Based on preliminary damage assessments conducted by FEMA, an estimated $3,736,719 is needed to cover the cost of temporary housing, repairs, and replacement housing, as well as provide for other needs required by citizens of the seven counties mentioned above. The impact on local jurisdictions is staggering and cannot be overlooked. Due to this, we believe the severe magnitude of these weather events warrants supplemental federal assistance.

The resourcefulness and resilience of Arkansans in recent months have been impressive; however, as losses mount, the people of our great state hope the federal government will join in these restoration efforts. As you know, this has been a tumultuous year for extreme weather events in Arkansas, with two Presidential Major Disaster and Emergency Declarations already declared.

The entire Arkansas delegation is eager to assist in any way possible to ensure expedited evaluation of this request. Please do not hesitate to contact our offices with any questions. We thank you for your support and respectfully ask for your attention and assistance in providing the resources necessary to ensure the safety of Arkansas.

HOUSE FIRE CLAIMS LIVES OF TWO
The Camden Fire Department was toned for a structure fire with possible entrapment at 110 Fairview Road. Engines 1, 4, 343, Rescue 1 and FD40 responded. Engine 4 arrived on scene to find a small single story residential structure with heavy fire involvement and heavy smoke throughout the home.

Captain S. Covington, approached the front of the house where family members were outside screaming about their "momma still inside her bedroom". The Captain made entry through the bedroom window. The conditions was zero visibility with heavy smoke coming from the bedroom window. Firefighter Glass entered the room through the same window. They located the victim and immediately tried to extricate her but had difficulty.

The heat in the room climbed rapidly. Glass extricated himself from the room through the window. As the Captain tried to get out he realized my feet had gotten tangled and was not able to get out easily. Operator Glass pulled the Captain out of the window onto the porch. Chief Jeremy Covington then applied a short blast of water into the room to cool off the room and Operator Glass and Operator Kadwell reentered and removed the victim. CPR was immediately initiated and OCMC took the victim to the hospital. The victim was pronounced dead on arrival to the hospital.

Bystanders advised someone else was in the back room. Captain Covington went to get equipment and returned to back up Operator Kadwell for search. Due to heavy fire involvement they were told to get out.

Firemen went defensive on the back side of the house to knock down the bulk of the flames. Chief Covington and Captain Smith made entry through the front door for fire attack where Chief Covington found victim number 2. Flames began pushing out of the gable end of the attic. The crew inside were pulled out and water applied to the attic.

At this point majority of the firefighting crew began to rehab due to the heat index being well over 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

The firefighting effort continued while they prepared remove the body of victim #2. Operator Amerson, Operator Beaver, Captains Smith and S. Covington entered the front door of the house. After law enforcement took photos, victim #2 was removed from the structure.

The victims were a 84 year old woman and a 74 year old man. The cause of the fire has yet to be determined.
 

MAGNOLIA MAN SENTENCED FOR KILLING A BALD EAGLE
EL DORADO – A Magnolia man was sentenced on June 15, 2023, to 24 months of federal probation, with the first 60 days to be served on home detention and ordered to pay $2,025 dollars in restitution and fees on one count of Aiding and Abetting in the Taking of a Bald Eagle. The Honorable Magistrate Judge Barry A. Bryant presided over the sentencing hearing in the United States District Court in El Dorado.

According to court documents, on January 16, 2022, Officers with the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission were dispatched to Lake Columbia, which is within the Western District of Arkansas, El Dorado Division. Upon arrival, officers made contact with a witness who advised that he was duck hunting with his children when he observed a Bald Eagle fly over their location.  The witness observed a subject shoot the Bald Eagle.  The witness then observed a subject go out and retrieve the bird from the water. Shortly thereafter, officers made contact with Christopher Lane Shackelford, age 20. Shackelford initially denied shooting the Bald Eagle, but later confessed to the officers. 

Bald Eagles are protected by the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. The violations of these statutes can carry maximum criminal penalties of up to $250,000 and/or two years in federal prison.

U.S. Attorney David Clay Fowlkes of the Western District of Arkansas made the announcement. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney’s David  Harris, Bryan Achorn and Graham Jones prosecuted the case.

Anyone with information concerning violations of wildlife crimes is asked to call the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Office of Law Enforcement in Conway, AR at (501) 513-4470; or contact the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission at (833) 356-0824 or text your tip to TIP411 (847411) (charges may apply).

 

CAMDEN CITY COUNCIL TO HOLD WORKSHOP
The City Council will meet for a workshop on Thursday, August 31, 2023, at 6:00 pm in the Council Chambers of the Municipal Building located at 206 Van Buren NE.

Items to be discussed:
1. Commercial Dumpsters – fees
2. Police Department Salaries

 

NEW STATE CAPITOL EXHIBIT RECOGNIZES ARKANSAS DAUGHTERS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION
The Organization is Celebrating 130 Years of Promoting and Preserving History
(LITTLE ROCK, ARK.) – Arkansas Secretary of State John Thurston would like to invite the public to come view the latest exhibit at the State Capitol: Arkansas DAR Celebrates 130 Years of Service to God, Home and Country, 1893-2023.

The Arkansas State Society Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) began in 1893, three years after the National Society DAR. The organization currently has 40 chapters across the state. Its mission is to promote historic preservation, education, and patriotism.

The exhibit, featuring items sent in from members across the state, highlights the organization's history and its many activities and projects throughout Arkansas over the years. Secretary of State John Thurston said, "I applaud the ladies of Arkansas DAR and their commitment to promoting and preserving our shared history. Congratulations on 130 years of service!"

To become a member, a woman must be 18 years or older and must prove lineal descent from a Patriot of the American Revolution. For more information about the Arkansas State Society DAR, visit http://www.arkansas-dar.org.

The exhibit will be on display in the State Capitol's first floor galleries until November 10th.

 

ENTERGY ARKANSAS HELPS CUSTOMERS BEAT THE HEAT THIS SUMMER
Fan donations help residents overcome stress of high temperatures
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Summertime brings warmer temperatures, which can translate into financial stress for customers on a tight budget. Over the last several months, Entergy Arkansas has been committed to supporting Arkansans during the high-energy usage months of summer. Our “Beat the Heat” fan drive focuses on helping low-income customers and communities stay cool in the summer. This annual program is vital to many residents, as it can provide relief from the summer heat and offer potential cost savings on their energy bill.

“With it being so extremely hot right now, it’s important to be careful and safe. I need this fan to do that,” said Monica Williams, Entergy Arkansas customer. “My air filters in my home need to be replaced and I’m still waiting on building maintenance to do that. This fan will really help in the meantime.” 

Heating and cooling costs make up about 55% of an average customer’s electric bill, so taking steps to save energy can help customers better manage usage when temperatures are hot. Placing fans strategically throughout a room can help supplement the use of air conditioning and help the room feel several degrees cooler.

This summer’s hot weather and triple-digit temperatures across the Entergy Arkansas service area has resulted in higher energy usage. These conditions can be challenging to customers, and Entergy Arkansas wants to do whatever we can to help.

“The cost of living has gone up so much and to receive anything free that will help during the hot summer months is a blessing,” said Erie Blakely, Entergy Arkansas Customer. “I’ve been an Entergy customer for 40 years and this is a good project for the whole community.”

Entergy Arkansas has partnered with several organizations across the state to help distributed fans including:
Ozark Center of Hope – Mountain Home
Arkansas River Valley Area Council – Russellville
Mississippi County Arkansas Economic Opportunity Commission – Blytheville
Black River Area Development Corp. – Pocahontas
Watershed Human Community Development Agency – Little Rock
Area Agency on Aging – Pine Bluff

Since many of our customers are facing rising costs for everything from bills to groceries, Entergy Arkansas is doing our part to provide support where we can.

“We recognize the strain that summer energy usage costs can have on our customers,” said Laura Landreaux, Entergy Arkansas president and CEO. “We are committed to doing everything we can to help customers manage the summer heat and their utility bills.”

In addition to helping provide fans to customers in need, Entergy Arkansas is also equipping residential customers with information and tools to reduce the impact of high summer temperatures and increased energy usage, including partnering with community action agencies to:

Commit more than $230,000 to The Power to Care program, which provides bill assistance to older adults and customers with disabilities.

Provide an online platform that allows customers to apply for utility bill assistance through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). The addition of this online option has resulted in a dramatic increase in LIHEAP applications this summer compared to past years.

Promote Level Billing, Pick-a-Date, and Deferred Payment Arrangements (DPAs) to give all customers helpful options for payment.

Distribute $4.7 million in energy efficiency resources to customers.

For more information about Entergy Arkansas’ “Beat the Heat” program, visit www.entergy.com/answers.

 

NEW NFIB SURVEY: INCREASED FINANCING COSTS TOPS THE LIST OF CREDIT CONCERNS FOR SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS
Latest NFIB banking survey tracks small business financial activities and expenses
LITTLE ROCK (Aug. 21, 2023) – NFIB’s Research Center released a follow-up survey following NFIB’s first banking survey released earlier this year. This survey asked small business owners about their banking activities and their experience in accessing credit. The survey was conducted by email from July 20-26, 2023.

“The health of the financial system is essential to small business operations,” said Holly Wade, Executive Director of NFIB’s Research Center. “While most owners are currently satisfied with their ability to borrow, the escalating cost of financing associated with high interest rates is a significant issue for many.”

Although state-specific data is unavailable, NFIB State Director Katie Burns said:

“The day-to-day operations of our small business owners rely on a strong financial system. While many Kansas job creators struggle against inflation and the ongoing labor shortage, rising interest rates present yet another challenge. These compounding factors are making it harder to plan ahead.”

Key findings are below: 
Borrowing:
Twenty-one percent of owners borrowed or tried to borrow from a bank or credit union in the last three months. Of those borrowing, 32% were very satisfied with the amount and terms offered for the financing received. Another 33% were mostly satisfied and 19% were moderately satisfied. Seventeen percent of owners reported that they were not satisfied.

Three-quarters of small business owners did not borrow or try to borrow money for business purposes in the last three months, nearly the same as in April 2023.

Banking Concerns:
Over half (58%) of small business owners who borrowed or tried to borrow reported high interest rates as their largest complaint in accessing financing.

Fourteen percent of owners reported the amount of credit approved being too low as their largest complaint, and another 9% reported that the application, approval, or closing process was too slow.

Seven percent of owners reported too much paperwork, 6% reported that the repayment schedule was too short, and 3% reported collateral requirement was too big.

Experience Accessing Financing:
Forty percent of owners reported that interest rates were a significant issue. Twenty-three percent reported it was a moderate issue and 13% said it was a mild issue.

Regarding collateral requirements, 16% reported it was a significant issue in the process of accessing credit and another 16% reported it as a moderate issue. Fourteen percent reported it was a mild issue and 55% reported it was not an issue.

Six percent of owners reported that the repayment schedule was a significant issue, 15% a moderate issue, and 12% a mild issue. Sixty-eight percent of small business owners reported that the repayment schedule was not an issue.

Thirteen percent reported that the paperwork requirements associated with accessing financing were a significant issue. Fifty-eight percent reported it was not an issue.

The amount of approved credit was not an issue for 62% of owners. The application, approval, or closing process was not an issue for 60% of respondents.

Reasons to Seek Financing:
A third of owners reported that the main purpose to seek financing was to meet operating and inventory expenses, 26% reported to replace capital assets or make repairs, 20% reported to expand their business, and 13% reported other. Refinance or pay down debt was the main financing purpose for 5% of owners.

Loans:
Among those who borrowed, over half (56%) received a term loan. Thirty-seven percent received a line of credit, and none reported factoring.

Of those who received a term loan, about half (51%) reported receiving a 3-5 year loan and 19% reported a 6-10 year loan. Another 10% reported the term duration of their loans as longer than 10 years.

Among those who did not apply for financing in the last three months, 80% reported that the primary reason they did not was because they did not need financing. Three percent reported that credit costs were too high, and 1% did not think their application would be approved.

Line of Credit:
Fifty-three percent of small business owners currently have a line of credit for business purposes. For about half (54%), the total credit limit is $100,000 or more. Four percent reported less than $10,000, 20% reported between $10,000-49,999, and 19% reported $50,000-99,999.

 The vast majority (80%) of business owners with a line of credit have not had their bank change the terms or conditions of that loan in the last three months.

Concerns on the Health of the Bank:
Small business owners’ concerns over the health of their bank have eased significantly since last reported in April. Over half (54%) of owners were not at all concerned about the health of their bank, an increase from 31% in April. Four percent were very concerned, 13% were moderately concerned, and 29% were slightly concerned.

Seven percent of owners have reached out to their bank about concerns related to the most recent bank failures. Thirteen percent reported that their bank reached out to them, and 80% reported that they did not reach out to their bank and their bank did not reach out to them. 

Bank Stability:
Small business owners are generally confident in the stability of their bank and therefore not seeking out alternative financial institutions. Ninety-seven percent of owners have not changed their primary financial institution that they use for business purposes in the last three months. Only 6% of owners are considering changing their primary financial institution. 

Financial State of Business and Economy:
Twenty-six percent of owners reported the current financial state of their business as excellent, 45% reported good and another 25% reported okay. Only 5% said poor.

When asked about the current state of their local economy, 3% reported excellent, 33% reported good, and 44% reported okay. One-in-five reported poor.

 When it comes to the national economy, over half (58%) of owners assessed the national economy as poor, only 1% reported excellent, 9% reported good, and 32% reported okay. As for when the U.S. economy will enter the next recession, 52% of small businesses already think the U.S. is already in a recession. Two percent think the next recession will start in the July-September period, 17% believe a recession will occur in the October-December period, 20% reported the January-June 2024 period, and 10% reported July 2024 or later.

Bank Location and Size:
Forty-two percent of small business owners visit their bank in person more than once per week. Another 35% visit their bank several times a month and 15% said a few times a year. Sixty-four percent of small business owners use a small or regional bank. Eighteen percent use a large bank, 16% use a medium bank,
and 3% reported other.

Beneficial Ownership Requirements:
The vast majority (90%) of small business owners are not at all familiar with the new beneficial ownership federal regulation. Nine percent are somewhat familiar, and only 1% are very familiar. While most small business owners will be required to comply with the regulation, few owners currently know of its existence

 

CSC LEADERS EXPRESS CONCERN FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION WITHHOLDING FUNDS FROM SCHOOLS WITH SHOOTING SPORTS ACTIVITIES
WASHINGTON – Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus (CSC) leaders Reps. Bruce Westerman (AR-04), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Garret Graves (LA-06), and Jared Golden (ME-02) sent a letter to U.S. Department of Education Secretary Miguel Cardona expressing concern with how the Department of Education is implementing language within the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (BSCA) to withhold funds from schools with shooting sports activities in their curriculum.

Together, the members requested that the Department revisit the legislative intent of the BSCA and reissue guidance before millions of students are unintentionally impacted and before these important programs are delayed or canceled for the school year.

In part, the members wrote:
"Unfortunately, by misinterpreting the legislative intent of the BSCA, the Department will soon negatively impact millions of students across the country. These programs are popular among teachers and school personnel because success in archery, hunting, target shooting, and outdoor classes can be achieved by students of all genders, abilities, and backgrounds. Further, according to teachers engaged with these programs, student participation has been correlated with improvements in academic performance, behavior, and school attendance. In the case of school sponsored archery programs, such as the National Archery in the Schools Programs, there are more than 1.3 million students in nearly 9,000 schools across 49 states that participate each academic year. 

"We also point out that this misinterpretation will undermine opportunities to teach hunter education courses that have been credited with reducing fatalities and injuries in hunting by more than 80 percent since 1959. These programs provide unique opportunities for students to build camaraderie, learn responsibility, improve mental health, and develop important life skills, all while being introduced with the safe, responsible, and legal handling of a firearm or archery equipment."

Background:
On July 31st, the U.S. Department of Education confirmed to Fox News that through misinterpretation of language in the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, schools with hunting and archery programs will not receive funding previously earmarked under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965. The misinterpretation of the legislative intent of the BSCA will negatively impact millions of students across the country who participate in archery programs, hunter education classes, wilderness and outdoor classes, and school-sponsored target shooting teams. The misinterpretation will also undermine opportunities for hunter education courses that have been accredited with reducing fatalities and injuries related to hunting by over 80% since 1959.

FISH FOR FREE IN ARKANSAS AUG. 23
LITTLE ROCK — The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission unanimously approved a special free fishing day during today’s regularly scheduled meeting at AGFC Headquarters. Anyone will be able to fish in Arkansas without a fishing license or trout permit Aug. 23. 

The free fishing opportunity comes as a result of an update to the AGFC’s license system. The AGFC has been working with its license system vendor, PayIt Outdoors (formerly Sovereign Sportsman Solutions), to update the license purchasing experience for Arkansas hunters and anglers. The process will require the license-purchase system to be unavailable for data transfer Aug. 23, preventing anyone from purchasing or renewing their license on that day. All other fishing regulations will remain in place Aug. 23.

SOUTH ARKANSAS’ LARGEST ARTS & CRAFTS SHOW, THE CAMDEN BARN SALE IS NOW…THE CAMDEN CRAFT FAIR SATURDAY, SEPT. 30TH IN CAMDEN ARKANSAS
Camden Arkansas -Experience the appeal of Southern Living at South Arkansas’ Largest Arts & Crafts Show, the Camden Craft Fair, Saturday, September 30th, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., now located at the Historic COLEMAN STADIUM in Camden, AR. (302 Center Street, Camden, AR. 71701)

The Camden Craft Fair, formerly the Camden Barn Sale, has grown into one of Arkansas’ major tourist attractions. Join thousands from all around the region to shop at over 75 booths of vendors and artists from all over the US featuring traditional crafts and contemporary styles. The spacious historic Coleman sports stadium provides the perfect venue to support the growth of over 50 years in the Camden Craft Fair’s history.   With this larger venue to shop, expect to find even more handcrafted wooden pieces, ceramics, paintings, floral arrangements, handmade clothing, jewelry, stained glass, one-of-a-kind toys, and much more. Shop till your heart's content while browsing the crafts and original handmade works of art.

While shopping, enjoy a myriad of authentic foods as vendors from all over the South descend on the Craft Fair with their own unique southern favorites and festival treats. Entertainment takes place throughout the day.  It’s fun for the entire family complete with the Kids Zone fun & inflatables and festival traditions including the St. Louis Catholic Church Spaghetti Supper and much, much more.

For more information contact:
The Camden Area Chamber of Commerce, director@camdenareachamberofcommerce.org, 870-836-6426 or visit, www.explorecamden.com

APPLICATIONS FOR WILDLAND FIRE SUPPRESSION KITS ACCEPTED THROUGH OCTOBER 20
LITTLE ROCK, AR— The Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Forestry Division is now accepting applications for wildland fire suppression kits through October 20, 2023. The application can be found at cognitoforms.com/ArkansasAgriculture1/Application ForWildlandFireSuppressionKit.

The Forestry Division received $293,154 through a United States Forest Service grant to provide 85 kits this year to rural volunteer fire departments across the state. Since 2014, more than 670 wildland fire suppression kits have been distributed.

Volunteer fire departments are the primary partner to Forestry Division crews in wildfire response and suppression, but they are often in need of specialized equipment and gear necessary for safe wildfire suppression. The necessary equipment and gear in the kits include lightweight wildfire-resistant coveralls, wildland gloves, rakes, backpack water pumps, and leaf blowers.

Rural volunteer fire departments are encouraged to apply online, but paper applications are available upon request. Applications are scored according to specific criteria to include the population of the fire district, the number of square miles covered, the average number of wildfires a department responds to annually, and other factors.

The selected departments will be notified in November and kits will be delivered in the spring of 2024 or as soon as supplies are received.

Fire departments may contact Kathryn Mahan-Hooten at kathryn.mahan@agriculture.arkansas.gov or (501) 679-3183 with questions. More information about the program can be found at agriculture.arkansas.gov/forestry /rural-fire-protection-program/.

The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies and programs for Arkansas agriculture, forestry, and natural resources to keep its farmers and ranchers competitive in national and international markets while conserving natural resources and ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation. Visit agriculture.arkansas.gov/. The Arkansas Department of Agriculture offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

AJ BISTO TO PERFORM “KEY OF G LIVE!” IN CAMDEN, AR ON SEPTEMBER 7, 2023
Live On Stage, Inc. and the Ouachita County Community Concert Association announce Garth Brooks tribute as part of their 2023 - 2024 Concert Season
CAMDEN, Ark. – (August 21, 2023) – AJ Bisto brings all of Garth Brooks chart-topping hits to the stage in a special, high-energy concert at the Event Center at Fairview Park on Thursday, September 7, 2023 at 7:00 p.m.  Children 12th grade and under will be admitted free of charge when accompanied by a paid adult.  For more information, please call 870-807-6915 or 870-818-2131, or visit www.camdenliveonstage.com.

AJ Bisto started singing when he was five years old, and has been entertaining ever since. Having performed as Garth Brooks in a cruise line variety show, Bisto was inspired to create his own tribute to the #1 selling solo artist of all time, and thus Key of G Live! was born. This high-energy show features a six-piece band performing all of Brooks’ biggest hits, including “Ain’t Goin Down,” “Rodeo,” “The Thunder Rolls,” “Callin’ Baton Rouge,” “If Tomorrow Never Comes,” “Amarillo By Morning,” “Friends In Low Places,” and so much more! Click Here To View A Video Of Key of G Live! starring AJ Bisto.

The Ouachita County Community Concert Association has been presenting world-class entertainment to the Camden community since 1947! An enthusiastic group of volunteers work tirelessly to provide family entertainment and educational outreach performances to educate and entertain adults and students alike.

Live On Stage, Inc. provides excellent, affordable, entertainment attractions and support services to an American community of concert presenters.  View a video about Live On Stage.  

 

2023 SOUTH ARKANSAS RURAL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CONFERENCE
Theme: “Breaking Barriers:  Engaging Minds, Empowering Success”
Providing small and emerging business owners with the innovative skills, tools, and contacts needed to create and grow their enterprises and better engage in job creation activities are the goals of an upcoming business conference to be held in Pine Bluff, Arkansas.  Funded by the USDA Rural Development, and Arkansas Human Development Corporation (AHDC), the 2023 South Arkansas Rural Business Development Conference, with a theme of “Breaking Barriers:  Engaging Minds, Empowering Success” will bring together approximately twenty (20) private, quasi-state, state, federal, non-profit, and national organizations to provide conference participants with needed resources to grow their existing business or develop new business endeavors.     

Partners invited to participate include but are not limited to: Arkansas Capital Corporation, Arkansas Department of Workforce Services (ADWS), Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center (ASBTDC), Arkansas APEX Accelerator, Small Business Administration (SBA), Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce, and the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB).  The hybrid conference will be held Friday, September 8, 2023 from 8:30am – 2:00pm via Zoom.  In-person participation will be limited to fifty (50) including presenters at conference site located at the Pine Bluff (Main) Library, 600 South Main Street, Pine Bluff, AR 71601.  Topics will include but are not limited to: building effective partnerships, securing capital, selling goods and services to the government, social media and how to access the many business support services offered by the ASBTDC to start and grow your business.

Please join us at 8:30 am for a “Breakfast with the Lenders Roundtable,” where conference participants will network with local, regional and statewide lenders. Lenders invited to participate include but are not limited to: Arkansas Capital Corporation, FORGE, Relyance Bank, Simmons Bank, USDA Rural Development-Business and Cooperative Programs.  The Lenders Roundtable will be facilitated by a representative of the U.S. Small Business Administration.  Rev. Cory Anderson, Chief Innovation Officer, Winthrop Rockefeller foundation, will be the luncheon speaker.  

Don’t miss the opportunity to help your community create needed small businesses and JOBS by acquiring the resources to help your small business GROW and INNOVATE!

An investment of time is the cost to attend but registration is encouraged.

You may register by calling Arkansas Human Development Corporation at (800) 482-7641, emailing dharrison@arhdc.org or online at https://t.ly/kaiVM 

CITY OF CAMDEN TO HOLD PUBLIC HEARING - UPDATE
The Public Hearing has been cancelled and re-scheduled for Tuesday, August 29, 2023, at 5:00 PM. It will still be in the Council Chambers of the Municipal Building. 

The City of Camden in alliance with SWAPPD (The Southwest Arkansas Planning and Development District) will hold a Public Hearing. The purpose of this meeting is to hear the public’s concerns about the needs in the community and to discuss the grant for renovations at Carnes Park Teen Town Building.

NHTSA AND ARKANSAS LAW ENFORCEMENT REMIND DRIVERS: DRIVE SOBER OR GET PULLED OVER
August 16, 2023
During the Labor Day holiday period, including the end of summertime and the busy holiday weekend, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) will be working alongside law enforcement in Arkansas to decrease impaired driving. From August 18 through September 4, Arkansas law enforcement will be participating in the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over high-visibility enforcement campaign. During this time, you’ll see officers working together to take drunk drivers off the roads in support of law enforcement’s dedication to protecting the lives of residents in their communities. No matter how you plan to celebrate the end of summer this year, make sure you plan to do it safely.

  For this year’s campaign, the National Park Service (NPS), and NHTSA Region 7, which includes Arkansas , Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, and Iowa, are again partnering to emphasize the importance of driving sober and saving lives on America’s roadways in and around our region’s National and State Parks. There will be an increased presence of state and local law enforcement officers along with NPS rangers during this campaign, whose expanded efforts to protect against impaired driving will be conducted in a fair and equitable way. Campaign activities will be highlighted by NHTSA at a press conference in St. Louis, Missouri at the Gateway Arch on August 25. Law enforcement officers in all regions will be participating in the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign throughout the Labor Day weekend. 

According to NHTSA, 13,384 people were killed in drunk-driving crashes in 2021 — that’s one person every 39 minutes. On average, more than 11,000 people were killed in drunk-driving crashes each year from 2017 to 2021. This is why Arkansas law enforcement officers are working together with NHTSA to remind drivers that drunk driving is not only illegal; it’s a matter of life and death. As you head out to festivities during the end of summer and Labor Day weekend, remember: Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over.

  “We want our community members to understand that it’s our first priority to keep people safe, so we’re asking everyone to plan ahead if they know they’ll be out drinking,” said Colonel Mike Hagar, Arkansas Public Safety Secretary, and the Governor’s Highway Safety Representative. “In addition to enforcement, the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign is an awareness effort to get the message out that drunk driving is illegal and it takes lives. Let’s make this a partnership between law enforcement and drivers− help us protect the community and put an end to this senseless behavior,” he said. 
, Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, and Iowa, are again partnering to emphasize the importance of driving sober and saving lives on America’s roadways in and around our region’s National and State Parks. There will be an increased presence of state and local law enforcement officers along with NPS rangers during this campaign, whose expanded efforts to protect against impaired driving will be conducted in a fair and equitable way. Campaign activities will be highlighted by NHTSA at a press conference in St. Louis, Missouri at the Gateway Arch on August 25. Law enforcement officers in all regions will be participating in the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign throughout the Labor Day weekend. 

According to NHTSA, 13,384 people were killed in drunk-driving crashes in 2021 — that’s one person every 39 minutes. On average, more than 11,000 people were killed in drunk-driving crashes each year from 2017 to 2021. This is why Arkansas law enforcement officers are working together with NHTSA to remind drivers that drunk driving is not only illegal; it’s a matter of life and death. As you head out to festivities during the end of summer and Labor Day weekend, remember: Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over.

  “We want our community members to understand that it’s our first priority to keep people safe, so we’re asking everyone to plan ahead if they know they’ll be out drinking,” said Colonel Mike Hagar, Arkansas Public Safety Secretary, and the Governor’s Highway Safety Representative. “In addition to enforcement, the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign is an awareness effort to get the message out that drunk driving is illegal and it takes lives. Let’s make this a partnership between law enforcement and drivers− help us protect the community and put an end to this senseless behavior,” he said. 

OUACHITA COUNTY TO RECOGNIZE VETERANS AND PATRIOTS
Ouachita Judge Robbie McAdoo has designated September as “Veteran’s and Patriot’s Awareness & Appreciation Month”.

Our veterans and patriots will be honored throughout the month of September culminating with a dinner on September 14th at 6 pm held at Cullendale First Baptist Church.   All veterans are invited and encouraged to attend the event.  Please note - this is an event to honor our veterans and is not political; therefore, no political paraphernalia in any form will be allowed.

Local businessman Josh Steed, who has spearheaded veteran recognition for years, joins additional sponsors of the event this year - Ouachita County Judge Robbie McAdoo, the Camden Area Chamber of Commerce, the Hubert J. Purifoy VFW Post 4554, Josh Steed with Deluxe Barber Shop and Pit Stop Quick Lube, the Shoppers Guide, Cullendale First Baptist Church, Lockheed Martin, Area Industries and various other local area businesses. Local individuals and businesses that would like to donate items or offer coupons and/or discounts for this year’s event should contact Jim Bob Davis at 870-837-2216.  

According to the Veterans Administration Office of Actuary there are currently 1,800 veterans in Ouachita County.  During this month, local businesses are encouraged to offer discounts to veterans to show their support; if such discounts are available, please notify the Chamber of Commerce of those discounts so that we can disseminate that information to Veterans.

Contacts:
Robbie McAdoo                                                                              
Ouachita County Judge                                                  
870-837-2210     
judge@ouachitacounty.org                                                         

Jim B. Davis                                                      
County Veterans Service Officer
870-837-2216
jimdavis@ouachitacounty.org

Cindy Green-Director
Camden Area Chamber of Commerce
870-836-6426
director@camdenareachamberofcommerce.org

Josh Steed
Deluxe Barber Shop/Pit Stop Quick Lube
870-818-9453
joshsteed1980@gmail.com

FARMERS BANK FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES 4TH ANNUAL SOUTH ARKANSAS OUTDOOR SOCIAL TO BENEFIT ARKANSAS GAME AND FISH FOUNDATION
Magnolia, AR (Aug. 15, 2023) – The Farmers Bank Foundation proudly presents the fourth South Arkansas Outdoor Social. The multi-day event benefits the Arkansas Game & Fish Foundation (AGFF) and includes a Fishing Tournament and free Fishing Derby on Friday, Sept. 29, followed by a competitive Trap Shooting Tournament on Saturday, Sept. 30. Events will take place at Lake Erling near Taylor, Arkansas, and at Southern Arkansas University campus locations in Magnolia, Arkansas.

The weekend will kick off Friday morning with a competitive Fishing Tournament at Lake Erling. The event will meet and launch at AGRED Park. The tournament begins at safe light and ends at 3 p.m. First prize is $1,000 (based on 25 entries), or 60% of entry fees collected. The remaining 40% of entry fees will be donated to AGFF. Entry fee per boat is $100. There will also be a $10 per boat Big Bass pot with 100% payback per boat. For more Fishing Tournament details and registration information, please call Chris Boswell at 870-949-1772.      

On Friday evening, a Fishing Derby will take place from 5 to 7 p.m. at the SAU Engineering/Armory Pond. The Fishing Derby is free to attend, and no sign-up is required, but a fishing license is needed. Fishing equipment and license sign-ups will be available on-site by the AGFF. The pond will also be stocked by AGFF, and participants will be allowed to take their catch per the legal limit. The event is open to children ages 16-and-under, and adults 65 or older. A disabled fishing license holder, or properly licensed persons between 16 and 64, may fish if accompanied by a person under 16 who is actively fishing. Prizes are presented by the AGFF. Food will be provided by the Farmers Bank Foundation. 

On Saturday, Sept. 30, 2023, a trap shooting tournament will occur at the Farmers Bank & Trust Trapshooting Range at Southern Arkansas University’s Governor Ben T. Laney Farm. The event will begin at 8 a.m. It is currently accepting five-person teams. The entry fee is $100 per person for 50 targets, and ammunition is included in the fee. In addition to the tournament, there will be a 50-50 money shoot. The entry fee for the money shoot event is $20 per person, and the winner splits the pot with the AGFF. 

Trap Shooting Tournament sponsors and teams can sign up by contacting Candace Rankin at candace.rankin@myfarmers.bank or by calling 870-235-7003. The registration deadline is Monday, Sept. 25, 2023.  Additional sponsorship opportunities are also available. 

 

ARREST MADE IN SCOTT COUNTY CHILD DEATH
August 14, 2023
On August 8, 2023, Rodger Sorg, 24, was charged with first-degree murder in the August 2, 2023, death of 3-month-old Kyzer Fry.

The Mansfield Police Department asked Arkansas State Police to investigate the death after they were called to a home on Huntington Avenue by the child's mother, Samantha Dotson. Dotson told investigators that she discovered the child unresponsive when she returned home from work.

Kyzer and two other children were in Sorg's care. 

Sorg is being held at the Scott County Detention Center.

FORMER DIERKS WATER OFFICIAL SENTENCED TO 6 YEARS, RESTITUTION
August 14, 2023
On August 10, 2023, Cheryl Delarosa was sentenced to six years in the Arkansas Department of Corrections and ordered to pay $501,000 in restitution to the City of Dierks by the Howard County Circuit Court. 

In June, Delarosa pled guilty to Class B Felony Theft of Property and Class B Felony Abuse of Public Trust.  Delarosa is the former manager of the Dierks Water Department.

The 9th West Judicial District Prosecutor asked Arkansas State Police to investigate in November 2020 after an audit revealed a misappropriation of funds in excess of $500,000 from 2015 through 2020.   
 

LITTLE ROCK CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU INVITES COMMUNITY TO PARADE & PEP RALLY ON SEPTEMBER 1 IN PREPARATION FOR ARKANSAS RAZORBACKS GAME
“Paint the Town Red Parade and Pep Rally” builds excitement around season opener and Labor Day Weekend
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (August 14, 2023) — The Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau (LRCVB) invites the community to be a part of the Paint the Town Red Parade and Pep Rally on Friday, September 1, 2023, in Little Rock’s River Market District. The LRCVB, City of Little Rock and the Little Rock Regional Chamber have partnered with the University of Arkansas to bring the University’s Razorback Marching Band, Spirit Squads and the official live mascot of the Arkansas Razorbacks, TUSK VI, to lead the festivities. This partnership aims to unite visitors and locals alike in a grand showcase of excitement and unity leading up to the much-anticipated Razorbacks game at War Memorial Stadium, promising an unforgettable Labor Day weekend experience.

“We are thrilled the University’s 2023 football season will kick off right here in our capital city,” said LRCVB President and CEO Gina Gemberling. “Arkansas Razorbacks games played in Little Rock have long been a time-honored tradition for local and statewide residents,” she added. “Friday’s Paint the Town Red Parade and Pep Rally will certainly set the tone for Saturday’s big opener,” she concluded. 

Spectators are encouraged to gather along the parade route and follow the fun to the pep rally at First Security Amphitheater. The parade will begin at 7:00 p.m. at the Little Rock Regional Chamber and make its way down President Clinton Avenue to Riverfront Park where a pep rally finale will take place at the First Security Amphitheater. Both events will serve as a precursor to the Hogs’ game against Western Carolina on Saturday, September 2 at War Memorial Stadium.

“We are appreciative to the Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau, the City and the Little Rock Regional Chamber for helping roll out the Razorback red carpet for our upcoming trip to Central Arkansas,” University of Arkansas Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics Hunter Yurachek said. “Throughout Arkansas, fans come together as One Razorback to support our athletic teams. We look forward to kicking off another exciting season in the capital city and encourage all Razorback fans to pack War Memorial Stadium to cheer on Coach Sam Pittman and the Razorback Football team.”

The Paint the Town Red Parade and Pep Rally serves as the ideal prelude to a weekend filled with joyous festivities, where visitors and locals can plan ahead to enjoy the vibrant spirit of the city. As the City joins forces to Paint the Town Red, the LRCVB invites businesses to embrace the spirit of celebration and join the festivities. Encouraging all to wear their Razorback red, businesses are invited to engage with the community by hosting special events or promotions, welcoming the teams on their marquees and showcasing the renowned hospitality for which Little Rock is known. 

“The Little Rock Regional Chamber is proud to partner with both the City and the Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau as we welcome the University of Arkansas back to Little Rock,” said Little Rock Regional Chamber President and CEO Jay Chesshir. “Razorback games have always been an exciting time for families and fans to gather to celebrate our Hogs, and nothing says ‘community’ quite like a game played at War Memorial Stadium,” he added. “Not only does this event bring Razorback fans together, but it also showcases our beautiful city along with the restaurants, entertainment venues and friendly atmosphere that residents and visitors alike have come to love.”

Little Rock Mayor Frank Scott Jr. expressed his excitement about the events, stating, “Game days at War Memorial are a true highlight for the state’s capital city and they’re an experience unlike any other,” Scott said. “The City of Little Rock is proud to host the Razorbacks as we also celebrate the 75th year of War Memorial Stadium. The stadium and War Memorial Park have been the site of so many great memories for Hog fans over the years, and we’re excited about the season opener,” the mayor added. 

For more information about the anticipated game at War Memorial Stadium, visit littlerock.com/arkansas-razorbacks-at-war-memorial-stadium. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at arkansasrazorbacks.com or by calling (800) 982-HOGS.

SAAC MAKES AUDITION CALL FOR ONCE UPON A MATTRESS - TWICE
Hear ye, Hear ye! The South Arkansas Arts Center is proud to announce the audition call for two upcoming productions of “Once Upon a Mattress". This fairy-tale musical is a fun rendition of “The Princess and The Pea”.  The SAAC Theatre Committee is hosting a community theatre production of the full-length musical on October 19-29, and the SAAC Arts Academy Teen Drama Club is presenting the one-hour youth edition on November 9-10. The Theatre Committe as well as for the Drama Club will hold auditions the last week of August. 

The Community Theatre production, sponsored by Nexans AmerCable and Southern Bancorp, will host auditions August 28-29 with registration starting at 6:30pm and auditions starting promptly at 7:00pm. Attend either or both days. Expect there to be cold scene readings, some singing, and dress for movement. A song list will be provided, and you will need to choose a song to sing a 30-45 second cut at auditions. Callbacks will be held August 30th at 6:30pm.

The Drama Club production, sponsored by Southern Airways Express, will host auditions for the youth edition August 29 & 31 from 4pm. Students grades 7-12 can attend either or both days. Select a 45 second cut from a song of your choice to sing, and bring the music track. There will also be a selection of monologues from the show provided. Make sure to prepare a monologue from that selection. Also, expect to learn a short-dance exercise. Callbacks will be September 5 at 4pm, and scene reading will be provided. 

Many moons ago in a far-off place, Queen Aggravain decreed no couples could marry until her son, Prince Dauntless, found a bride. Princesses came from far and wide to win the hand of the prince, but none could pass the impossible tests given to them by the Queen. That is, until the “shy” swamp princess, Winnifred the Woebegone, showed up. Would she be able to pass the Sensitivity Test, marry her prince and help Lady Larkin and Sir Harry to the altar? Carried on a wave of wonderful songs, by turns hilarious and raucous, romantic and melodic, this rollicking spin on the classic tale "The Princess and the Pea" provides some side-splitting shenanigans. For after all, a princess is a delicate thing.

Auditions for both productions will be held in the Callaway Theatre at South Arkansas Arts Center, which is located at 110 E 5th Street. Come and be a part of this fairy-tale adventure. Your destiny awaits you! For more information call SAAC at 870-862-5474 or visit the website www.saac-arts.org

For more on these and other stories, visit www.yesradioworks.com/news

CITY OF CAMDEN TO HOLD PUBLIC HEARING
The City of Camden in alliance with SWAPPD (The Southwest Arkansas Planning and Development District) will hold a Public Hearing on Thursday, August 17, 2023, at 2:00pm in the Council Chambers of the Municipal Building.  The purpose of this meeting is to hear the public’s concerns about the needs in the community and to discuss the grant for renovations at Carnes Park Teen Town Building.

PEDESTRIAN, BICYCLE SAFETY TIPS TO PROTECT KIDS HEADING BACK TO SCHOOL
August 10, 2023
As a new school year approaches, it is a good time to review some principles of pedestrian and bicycle safety.

Walking or biking to school is fun, encourages physical activity, and helps form healthy habits that could last a lifetime. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that children and adolescents get one hour or more of physical activity daily; walking or bicycling to school could help many students meet this recommendation. However, according to the National Household Travel Survey, only 10% of children ages 5–17 walk or bike to school in the United States.

Arkansas communities are working in various ways to encourage young people to be active. Communities can apply to the Arkansas Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) for grants to make walking and biking to school safer. Groups in Northwest Arkansas are partnering with All Kids Bike to teach elementary students to ride a bike. College students in the state are also benefiting from expanded pedestrian and biking access on campuses. For example, the Fayetteville Traverse trail is a shared-use trail that connects the University of Arkansas campus with parks and trails throughout Fayetteville. Arkansas State University encourages students to use the Pedestrian and Cyclist Paths system, which includes almost 10 miles of marked bicycle accommodations.

It is everyone’s responsibility to keep students safe while they are actively commuting to school. Here are some tips to consider:

Pedestrians
Always walk on the sidewalk. If there is no sidewalk, pedestrians should walk facing traffic.
Use crosswalks when available. Look left, right, and left again before crossing the street.
Children under age 10 should cross the street with an adult because they may not be able to judge the speed and distance of oncoming cars.
Avoid distracted walking by putting away phones and paying attention to your surroundings.

Cyclists
Wear a good-fitting helmet.
Check your bike before riding. Make sure tires are properly inflated and that the brakes work.
Ride in a straight line. so that you are predictable, and signal your moves to others.
Always stay alert. Do not wear headphones so that you can hear traffic and avoid dangerous situations.
Follow the rules of the road. Trailblazers has a helpful resource  on cycling laws in Arkansas.

Drivers
Reduce your speed when approaching crosswalks.
In Arkansas, drivers must yield to pedestrians crossing within any marked crosswalk or within any unmarked crosswalk at an intersection.
Be alert in school zones. Arkansas prohibits cell phone use in school zones during school hours when students are present. Fines for a first offense range from $25 to $250, and from $50 to $500 for each additional offense. If the driver is in an accident or collision, the fines double. Individuals could be found guilty of a Class A misdemeanor if the accident resulted in a serious physical injury or death. In addition to penalties, a court may order 100 hours or less of public work service.

Stop for school buses. Vehicles must stop at least 30 feet from a school bus when the warning signals are displayed.

Additional Tips
Know the route to and from school. Parents should walk or bike the route with kids in advance to make sure they know the way.
Encourage children to walk in groups or with a buddy. There is safety in numbers, and walking together can deter potential dangers.
Avoid using secluded shortcuts.
Ensure your children have identification and emergency numbers in their backpacks.
Most accidents happen during poor lighting conditions. When commuting at night, wear bright colors and reflective materials. If riding a bike, make sure the bike has a white light on the front and a red light or reflector on the rear.
Raise awareness in the community about the importance of slowing down in school zones and being cautious around young pedestrians.

 

KNOW WHAT’S BELOW – EVERY DIG REQUIRES A CALL
811 protects you and the community. Stay safe by knowing where utility lines are buried.
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Entergy Arkansas is reminding customers to call 811 before doing any digging in the ground. August 11 (8/11) is designated as “Call before you dig day,” and the company is reminding homeowners and professional contractors to use the free 811 service before digging to reduce the risk of striking an underground utility or gas line.

“The safety of our customers is always our top priority,” said Michael Considine, Entergy Arkansas’ vice president of reliability. “August 11 is the perfect time to remind everyone to take the extra step and call 811 before any digging project, large or small. Making that call is important to avoid service interruptions and, most of all, personal injury or worse.”

The depth of underground utility lines varies and there may be multiple utility lines in one common area. The risk of striking underground utility lines exists even when digging only a few inches.

Entergy Arkansas hopes August 11 will serve as an important reminder to all people who excavate or dig to call 811 at least two full business days before digging to have the approximate location of their utility lines marked. This process helps prevent injuries, property damage and inconvenient utility outages.

After you make the call to 811, professional locators mark the approximate locations of underground lines at the requested digging site with flags, paint or both. Markings show the location of underground lines and help prevent undesired consequences such as injury, service disruptions or costly fines and repair costs.

“Regardless of what you plan to do, how deep you plan to dig or even if you’ve called before for a similar project, every job requires a call first,” said Considine. “Not only is it the safe thing to do, but it’s also the law.”

Calling 811 before you dig helps prevent serious consequences that could occur from digging without knowing what’s below the surface – not only now, but year-round.

If you suspect utility damage of any kind, leave the area immediately and call 1-800-ENTERGY (1-800-368-3749) or call 911. A gas leak could be occurring if you smell the distinctive natural gas odor, hear a hissing or whistling sound near a gas appliance or see dead vegetation or bubbles near a gas line.

For more information, visit our website: https://www.entergy.com/safety/dig/

CITY OF CAMDEN BOARD OF ALDERMEN MEET
The City of Camden Board of Aldermen met in regular session on Tuesday, August 08, 2023. in the Council Chambers of the Municipal Building. Mayor Young called the meeting to order promptly at 7:00 p.m. The invocation was given by Rev. Jim Lockhart, Interim Pastor at Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church,  675 Viser Street SE, Camden. The invocation was followed by the Pledge of Allegiance

City Clerk Donna Stewart called the roll. Aldermen Chris Aregood, Gerald Castleberry, Marvin Moore, Ebony Gulley, Ed Winters, L.E. Lindsey, Joe Askew and William McCoy were all in attendance.

The Minutes from the Regular Meeting dated July 11, 2023 were presented in print. Motion was made and seconded. Alderman McCoy noted that h it was mentioned that he left. In the past, others have left and it wasn't noted. Alderman Askew made a motion to amend the minutes to remove Alderman McCoy name. Motion to amend was made and seconded. The minutes passed as amended by unanimous vote

The Financial Report for July 2023 was presented in print. Motion was made and seconded. Alderman Askew asked about the line item under Parks and Recreation. Treasurer stated she will pull a report and email to him. Passed with 7 votes for and Alderman Gulley abstaining.

The Mayor reported that the Fire Department has received the rescue boat. She told Council Members to Stop by Station 3 and see it. Ida B. Moore building at Ivra Clark Park has a new roof. Beach Volleyball is now being utilized at Carnes Park. National night out was a great success.

The Employee of the Month award was presented to Mr. Earl Portia. He was presented with a certificate and gift card by Mayor Young. She stated that he has Great enthusiasm and a get it done attitude.

The Council turned to old business beginning with  Ordinance No. 03-23, an ordinance permitting an Official of the Camden Water and Sewer Commission to be interested in contracts with the City of Camden, Arkansas. This was the second reading of the Ordinance. Motion made and seconded. Motion was made to suspend the rules and put it up for the final vote. Aldermen Gulley stated that she had said she would not vote but since that time she has decided to vote. Aldermen Gulley, Moore and McCoy voted no. Motion to suspend the rules failed as there must be a 2/3 vote for in order to pass so the motion failed. The Ordinance will be back for a third reading next month.

Ordinance No. 04-23, an ordinance repealing Camden Code Section 2-54 regarding advertising of bids for public improvements; and for other purposes. This was the second reading of the Ordinance. Motion was made and seconded to suspend the rules and put it up for a third and final vote.  Alderman Gulley stated that and amount has not been set so it should not be voted on.  Motion to suspend the rules failed with Aldermen Gulley, Moore, Askew, Winters and McCoy voting no so it will be back up for a third and final reading next month. There will be a workshop to discuss the issue further,

Ordinance No. 05-23, an ordinance amending Article II of the Camden Code; establishing rates and procedures for the collection of garbage for Commercial Customers; and for other purposes. This was the second reading of the Ordinance. Motion made and seconded. Alderman Lindsey has been working on numbers and hasn't gotten quite finished with his research. Ordinance will be on the agenda next month for a third and final reading.

Moving on to new business the Council heard Ordinance No. 06-23, an ordinance repealing Ordinance No. 6-12 assessing a lien on certain property located 777 Bradley Ferry Road SE. Motion was made and seconded. A motion was made to suspend the rules and put the Ordinance up for a final vote. Motion was seconded.The motion failed with only Aldemen Lindsey and Aregood voting yes. The Ordinance will be on the agenda next month for a second reading.

Ordinance No. 07-23, an ordinance amending Camden Code 2-46, 2-52 and 2-53, regarding purchases and contracts; and for other purposes. Motion was made and seconded. This Ordinance would require competitive bidding for any purchase over $20,000.00. The Ordinance will be on the agenda next month.

Resolution No. 49-23, a resolution confirming the appointment of Gisela Perez to the Advertising and   Promotion Commission. Motion was made and seconded. The resolution passed by unanimous vote.

Resolution No. 50-23, a resolution confirming the re-appointment of Michael Tidwell to the Advertising and Promotion Commission. Motion was made and seconded. The resolution passed by unanimous vote.

Resolution No. 51-23, a resolution amending the Annual Operating Budget for 2023; and for other purposes. Motion was made and seconded. This Resolution was to approve money for a drainage issue at the River Valley Credit Union. The money was approved in last year’s budget but was never used. The Credit Union is now ready to have the work done so the Council had to approve it again as it wasn’t included in this years budget The vote was a tie so Mayor Young voted to approve and the Resolution passed. Mayor Young stated that is was an agreement that was approved last year so she felt that the City should honor it.

 Alderman Lindsey made a motion to suspend the rules and add resolution 52-23 to the agenda. Motion was made and seconded. Resolution was to provide raises for our Policemen and Dispatchers. Aldermen Castleberry and Lindsey voted yes. All others voted no. The issue will be discussed at a future workshop.

The meeting was adjourned at 925 pm. The next scheduled Council meeting is September 11, 2023.

ARKANSAS ANIMAL AT LARGE REPORTING FORM NOW AVAILABLE 
LITTLE ROCK, AR— The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is pleased to announce the launch of the Arkansas Animal at Large online reporting form. This new reporting form was developed to implement Act 594 which was enacted during the 2023 Regular Session of the Arkansas General Assembly and will provide a state-wide method of notification of lost livestock. 

Both those who have found livestock and those who have lost livestock may post notifications with photographs and descriptions of the animals, the dates they were lost or found, and the county in which they were lost or found. The posted information will serve as the Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s publicly accessible record of all livestock currently in the custody of impounders within the state.

“The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is pleased to offer this new resource to our state’s citizens,” said Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture Wes Ward. “The Animal at Large reporting process gives agricultural producers a new tool to find lost livestock and ensure safe return.”

Act 594 was sponsored by Senator Ben Gilmore and Representative Howard Beaty and had broad support from the Arkansas agriculture industry. In addition to providing better avenues for enforcement and resolution of disputes, Act 594 updated, modified, and clarified 27 statutes and repealed 59 antiquated laws regarding livestock running at large. Prior to Act 594, many of the statutes regarding fencing and livestock running at large dated back to the 1800s, with some statutes not being substantially altered since the 1940s.

Access the Animal at Large reporting forms at mip.agri.arkansas.gov/livestock/public /home/fencing _home. Act 594 can be found at arkleg.state.ar.us/Home/FTP Document?path=%2FACTS%2F2023R% 2FPublic%2FACT594.pdf.

The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies and programs for Arkansas agriculture, forestry, and natural resources to keep its farmers and ranchers competitive in national and international markets while conserving natural resources and ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation. Visit agriculture.arkansas.gov/. The Arkansas Department of Agriculture offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

ENTERGY ARKANSAS GETS GREEN LIGHT FOR COMMERCIAL CUSTOMERS TO GO ZERO
Clean energy offering will help businesses be more environmentally friendly
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – The Arkansas Public Service Commission recently approved Go ZERO, a new offering that gives commercial and industrial customers customizable options for clean energy.

Go ZERO, which stands for Zero Emissions Resource Options, allows customers to acquire clean energy attributes associated with the output of Entergy Arkansas’ existing emissions free resources, as well as additional renewable energy resources as they come online.

“We are thrilled to be able to provide our customers with these clean energy options,” said Laura Landreaux, president and CEO of Entergy Arkansas. “Go ZERO will help customers meet their sustainability goals 24/7 by using our nuclear and hydroelectric plants and our growing portfolio of renewable energy resources. It was designed with input from our customers, who need sustainability solutions to reduce their emissions.”

Companies that have already expressed interest in subscribing, including Arkansas Steel Associates, Big River Steel and newly announced Hybar LLC. But Go ZERO may benefit all varieties of commercial and industrial customers of Entergy Arkansas.

In fact, the federal government also is participating. As announced last year via a memorandum of understanding, the General Services Administration worked with Entergy Arkansas in the development of Go ZERO as a means to meet their goal of sourcing 100% of the federal government’s electricity from carbon pollution-free electricity sources by 2030, including 50 percent on a 24/7 basis. GSA said such an offering could be a model for the rest of the country.

Go ZERO’s clean energy options can also be a critical economic development tool to help the state recruit new businesses and support expansion of existing businesses in Arkansas.

“In addition to price and reliability, companies are looking for clean energy sources, which Entergy Arkansas can offer to prospective customers seeking to locate in Arkansas. We believe Go ZERO helps set Arkansas apart as the place to do business,” Landreaux said.

Go ZERO will provide three options for customers to meet their sustainability goals:

A subscription to Asset-Backed Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) from renewable resources, with the RECs retired on behalf of the subscribing customer

A vehicle for providing customers with Asset-Backed Zero-Emission Alternative Energy Certificates (AECs) for the customer’s share of existing nuclear and hydro resources, with the AECs retired on behalf of the subscribing customer

24/7 Time-Match Reporting of the customer’s Scope 2 emissions associated with the customer’s retail purchases of electricity

To subscribe to Go ZERO or get more information, visit renew.entergy.com. You may also contact the Entergy Business Center at 1-800-766-1648 or email GoZEROArkansas@entergy.com.

SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS CONTINUE TO MANAGE CHALLENGING ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT IN JULY
Labor quality is the top business concern for small businesses
LITTLE ROCK (Aug. 8, 2023) – The NFIB Small Business Optimism Index increased 0.9 of a point in July to 91.9, marking the 19th consecutive month below the 49-year average of 98. Twenty-one percent of owners reported that inflation was their single most important problem in operating their business, down three points from June.

“With small business owners’ views about future sales growth and business conditions dismal, owners want to hire and make money now from solid consumer spending,” said NFIB Chief Economist Bill Dunkelberg. “Inflation has eased slightly on Main Street, but difficulty hiring remains a top business concern.”

Although state-specific data isn’t available, NFIB State Director Katie Burns said:

“Our job creators are uneasy about the future, making it difficult to know how best to prepare and plan. And though prices remain elevated, hiring continues to pose an even greater challenge to our small businesses. With our state’s labor force participation rate behind the national average, qualified applicants are in short supply, forcing business owners to fill in the gap.”

Key findings include:
Owners expecting better business conditions over the next six months improved 10 points from June to a net negative 30%, 31 percentage points better than last June’s reading of a net negative 61%. This is the highest reading since August 2021 but historically very negative.

Forty-two percent of owners reported job openings that were hard to fill, unchanged from June but remaining historically very high.

The net percent of owners raising average selling prices decreased four points to a net 25% seasonally adjusted, still a very inflationary level but trending down. This is the lowest reading since January 2021.

The net percent of owners who expect real sales to be higher improved two points from June to a net negative 12%, a very pessimistic perspective.

As reported in NFIB’s monthly jobs report, 61% of owners reported hiring or trying to hire in July, up two points from June. Of those hiring or trying to hire, 92% of owners reported few or no qualified applicants for the positions they were trying to fill. Thirty-three percent of owners reported few qualified applicants for their open positions and 23% reported none.

 

Fifty-five percent of owners reported capital outlays in the last six months, up two points from June. Of those making expenditures, 38% reported spending on new equipment, 22% acquired vehicles, and 15% improved or expanded facilities. Eleven percent spent money on new fixtures and furniture and 6% acquired new buildings or land for expansion. Twenty-seven percent of owners plan capital outlays in the next few months. 

A net negative 13% of all owners (seasonally adjusted) reported higher nominal sales in the past three months, down three points from June and the lowest reading since August 2020. The net percent of owners expecting higher real sales volumes improved two points to a net negative 12%.

The net percent of owners reporting inventory gains was unchanged at a net negative 3%. Not seasonally adjusted, 14% reported increases in stocks and 14% reported reductions. A net negative 4% of owners viewed current inventory stocks as “too low” in July. By industry, shortages are reported most frequently in retail (15%), transportation (14%), manufacturing (11%), and services (9%). Shortages in construction (6%) have been reduced. A net negative 2% of owners plan inventory investment in the coming months, up one point. 

Falling four points from June, the net percent of owners raising average selling prices dropped to a net 25% (seasonally adjusted), the lowest since January 2021. Twenty-one percent of owners reported that inflation was their single most important problem in operating their business. Unadjusted, 14% reported lower average selling prices and 40% reported higher average prices. Price hikes were the most frequent in finance (53% higher, 13% lower), retail (52% higher, 10% lower), wholesale (44% higher, 15% lower), and construction (43% higher, 6% lower). Seasonally adjusted, a net 27% plan price hikes.

Seasonally adjusted, a net 38% reported raising compensation. A net 21% plan to raise compensation in the next three months, down one point from June. Ten percent of owners cited labor costs as their top business problem, up two points. Twenty-three percent of owners said that labor quality was their top business problem.

The frequency of reports of positive profit trends was a net negative 30%, down six points from June. Among owners reporting lower profits, 30% blamed weaker sales, 19% blamed the rise in the cost of materials, 18% cited labor costs, 9% cited lower prices, 5% cited usual seasonal change, and 4% cited higher taxes or regulatory costs. For owners reporting higher profits, 44% credited sales volumes, 34% cited usual seasonal change, and 9% cited higher selling prices.

Three percent of owners reported that all their borrowing needs were not satisfied. Twenty-five percent reported all credit needs were met and 62% said they were not interested in a loan. A net 6% reported their last loan was harder to get than in previous attempts. Four percent reported that financing was their top business problem. A net 23% of owners reported paying a higher rate on their most recent loan.  To date, Fed policies raising interest rates and reducing their portfolio have not had a significant impact on small firms. 

The NFIB Research Center has collected Small Business Economic Trends data with quarterly surveys since the fourth quarter of 1973 and monthly surveys since 1986. Survey respondents are randomly drawn from NFIB’s membership. The report is released on the second Tuesday of each month. This survey was conducted in July 2023.
 

SECOND STAGE ANNOUNCE CAST FOR UPCOMING PRODUCTION OF "FLUNG" AUGUST 17-19 AT SAAC
The Second Stage Acting Troupe is proud to present its fourth production, "Flung" by Lisa Dillman, at SAAC’s Callaway Theatre. Box office is now open to the public. Performances are August 17-19 with a 7:30pm curtain.  

“This show has been challenging to put together. From the start, we had to create a family, finding their feelings and motivations for their interactions and behaviors,” said Director Ruth Griffin. “Even after we started rehearsals, we discovered new details about characters and why they make certain choices.”  Griffin, who works at EHS teaching musical theatre, technical theatre, and costuming; has participated with community theatres for over thirty years and directed in a school setting for fourteen years.

Flung is a drama that focuses on the Cotter families' four adult siblings; Matthew (Hayden Nooner), Meryl (Hannah Faith Davis), Win (Mary Catherine White), and their half-sister Jade (Emilia Meinert). Other members of this production include Meryl’s husband Jim (Matthew Power), Winn’s husband Doug (Rhett Davis), Jade’s boyfriend Devon (Levi Nesbitt), and Jade’s mother Ginny (Traci Stevenson).  

Families come in all shapes and sizes, they fight, they laugh, they cry. They may look happy on the outside to others, but many families have underlying drama. The Cotters are no different. Powerful theatre hits you right where it matters, and this story brings the rights hooks and stiff, left jabs. With the death of the father of two families’ passes away, the Cotter families must reunite to disperse his ashes. As his ashes are ‘Flung,’ the family members recall the events that shaped their memory of him. Despite the mistakes of the father, how will the family rekindle their own fires in his stead? This is their story and how the Cotter family picks up the pieces, no matter how jagged they may be.  

“As all the characters converge to pay tribute to their family patriarch, secrets are revealed,” Griffin commented. “This show digs deep and bares how the characters are dealing with each of their own life situations, many of which connect to their relationship with their father. We are able to get an insight into what each character feels through the use of monologue memories, woven through the Fourth of July gathering.”

Tickets for this production are $10 for SAAC Members and $15 for the General Public. Stop by SAAC or go to their website to get your tickets now! South Arkansas Arts Center is located at 110 East 5th Street in El Dorado, Arkansas.  www.saac-arts.org

CITY OF CAMDEN BOARD OF ALDERMEN TO MEET
The City of Camden Board of Aldermen will have their regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, August 08, 2023, at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers of the Municipal Building.

The agenda is as follows:
A.    CALL TO ORDER

B.    INVOCATION – Rev. Jim Lockhart, Interim Pastor – Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church,  675 Viser Street SE, Camden, Arkansas 71701
C.    PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

D.    ROLL CALL

E.    APPROVAL OF MINUTES
      1.   Minutes Regular Meeting July 11, 2023

F.    ACCEPTANCE OF FINANCIAL REPORT
      1.   Financial Report for July 2023

G.    AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION

H.    MAYOR’S REPORT
      1.   Kyle Gatling & Jason Fletcher – Report on Airport 

 I.    OLD BUSINESS
      1.  Ordinance No. 03-23, an ordinance permitting an Official of the Camden Water and Sewer Commission to be interested in contracts with the City of Camden, Arkansas. (Second Reading)
      2.   Ordinance No. 04-23, an ordinance repealing Camden Code Section 2-54 regarding advertising of bids for public improvements; and for other purposes. (Second Reading)
     3.   Ordinance No. 05-23, an ordinance amending Article II of the Camden Code; establishing rates and procedures for the collection of garbage for Commercial Customers; and for other purposes. (Second Reading)

 J.   NEW BUSINESS
      1. Ordinance No. 06-23, an ordinance repealing Ordinance No. 6-12 assessing a lien on certain property located 777 Bradley Ferry Road SE.
      2.   Ordinance No. 07-23, an ordinance amending Camden Code 2-46, 2-52 and 2-53, regarding purchases and contracts; and for other purposes.

      3.   Resolution No. 49-23, a resolution confirming the appointment of Gisela Perez to the Advertising and   Promotion Commission.
      4.   Resolution No. 50-23, a resolution confirming the re-appointment of Michael Tidwell to the Advertising and Promotion Commission.
     5.   Resolution No. 51-23, a resolution amending the Annual Operating Budget for 2023; and for other purposes.

K.    OTHER BUSINESS
L.    ADJOURNMENT
 

ENTERGY ARKANSAS GETS GREEN LIGHT FOR COMMERCIAL CUSTOMERS TO GO ZERO
Clean energy offering will help businesses be more environmentally friendly
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – The Arkansas Public Service Commission recently approved Go ZERO, a new offering that gives commercial and industrial customers customizable options for clean energy.

Go ZERO, which stands for Zero Emissions Resource Options, allows customers to acquire clean energy attributes associated with the output of Entergy Arkansas’ existing emissions free resources, as well as additional renewable energy resources as they come online.

“We are thrilled to be able to provide our customers with these clean energy options,” said Laura Landreaux, president and CEO of Entergy Arkansas. “Go ZERO will help customers meet their sustainability goals 24/7 by using our nuclear and hydroelectric plants and our growing portfolio of renewable energy resources. It was designed with input from our customers, who need sustainability solutions to reduce their emissions.”

Companies that have already expressed interest in subscribing, including Arkansas Steel Associates, Big River Steel and newly announced Hybar LLC. But Go ZERO may benefit all varieties of commercial and industrial customers of Entergy Arkansas.

In fact, the federal government also is participating. As announced last year via a memorandum of understanding, the General Services Administration worked with Entergy Arkansas in the development of Go ZERO as a means to meet their goal of sourcing 100% of the federal government’s electricity from carbon pollution-free electricity sources by 2030, including 50 percent on a 24/7 basis. GSA said such an offering could be a model for the rest of the country.

Go ZERO’s clean energy options can also be a critical economic development tool to help the state recruit new businesses and support expansion of existing businesses in Arkansas.

“In addition to price and reliability, companies are looking for clean energy sources, which Entergy Arkansas can offer to prospective customers seeking to locate in Arkansas. We believe Go ZERO helps set Arkansas apart as the place to do business,” Landreaux said.

Go ZERO will provide three options for customers to meet their sustainability goals:

A subscription to Asset-Backed Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) from renewable resources, with the RECs retired on behalf of the subscribing customer

A vehicle for providing customers with Asset-Backed Zero-Emission Alternative Energy Certificates (AECs) for the customer’s share of existing nuclear and hydro resources, with the AECs retired on behalf of the subscribing customer

24/7 Time-Match Reporting of the customer’s Scope 2 emissions associated with the customer’s retail purchases of electricity

To subscribe to Go ZERO or get more information, visit renew.entergy.com. You may also contact the Entergy Business Center at 1-800-766-1648 or email GoZEROArkansas@entergy.com.
 

ARKANSAS DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE ANNOUNCES NEW WEBSITE CALENDAR FEATURE FOR AGRICULTURE EVENTS
LITTLE ROCK, AR— The Arkansas Department of Agriculture (Department) is pleased to introduce a new interactive calendar feature on the Department website. This feature allows producers, industry stakeholders, and members of the public to submit events to be included in the calendar.

“The new calendar feature will provide a reliable resource for industry stakeholders as well as interested individuals on upcoming events that promote all aspects of Arkansas’s agriculture industry,” said Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture Wes Ward.

The new feature allows a user to submit an event to be considered for placement on the Department website calendar. In addition to filling out the date(s) and time(s), users can also provide location information, location maps, a link to the event website, and provide additional information such as organizer contact information and registration costs.

All submitted calendar entries are published on the Department webpage upon approval. To submit an event for consideration, visit mip.agri.arkansas.gov/agtools /Calendar/Home/Submit_Event. To view the Department’s calendar of events, visit mip.agri.arkansas.gov/agtools/Calendar/Home/ Month. For additional questions, contact Amy Lyman at amy.lyman@agriculture. arkansas.gov.

The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies and programs for Arkansas agriculture, forestry, and natural resources to keep its farmers and ranchers competitive in national and international markets while conserving natural resources and ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation. Visit agriculture.arkansas.gov/. The Arkansas Department of Agriculture offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

 

GOVERNOR SANDERS DECLARES AUGUST AS CATFISH MONTH
LITTLE ROCK, AR— On August 3, Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders joined agriculture leaders and industry partners in declaring August as Arkansas Catfish Month. The proclamation highlights the state’s catfish industry and the value it contributes to Arkansas’s economy.

“As the third-biggest catfish producer in the nation, our catfish farmers power the economy in communities across Arkansas,” said Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders. “My administration will continue to support our great farmers – keeping our farming here and healthy for the next generation.”

“Catfish production in Arkansas is a great example of why agriculture is our state’s largest industry, with catfish consistently ranking in Arkansas’s top agricultural commodities,” said Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture Wes Ward. “Catfish month is a great time to recognize this industry and the dedicated producers who work hard to maintain Arkansas as a national leader in agriculture.”

Representatives from The Catfish Institute, Catfish Farmers of Arkansas, Catfish Promotion Board, Arkansas Farm Bureau, and other agriculture industry stakeholders attended the event.

King Kat of Carlisle, Arkansas catered a catfish luncheon that also featured watermelons from Cave City and Hope.

Photographs from this event can be found at flic.kr/s/aHBqjAPRNR

The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies and programs for Arkansas agriculture, forestry, and natural resources to keep its farmers and ranchers competitive in national and international markets while conserving natural resources and ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation. Visit agriculture.arkansas.gov/. The Arkansas Department of Agriculture offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
 

STATE CAPITOL WEEK IN REVIEW FROM SENATOR MATT STONE
AUGUST 4, 2023
LITTLE ROCK – Most of the bills that were approved by the legislature earlier this year became law on August 1.

Among the most important measures taking effect is the LEARNS Act, which raises teacher minimum salaries to $50,000 a year and makes sweeping changes in the public school finance formula.

LEARNS is an acronym that stands for Literacy, Empowerment, Accountability, Readiness, Networking, School Safety.

Another important bill is Act 659, the Protect Arkansas Act, which lengthens prison sentences for violent offenders and requires prison inmates to work harder to qualify for parole. Making offenders serve longer sentences would bring Arkansas sentencing guidelines more in line with those used by federal prisons, where people convicted of federal crimes serve almost all of their sentence.

To more effectively implement Act 659, lawmakers approved funding in separate legislation for 3,000 more prison beds.

Act 584 creates a new felony of “death by delivery” for dealers who lace their illegal drugs with fentanyl, resulting in the death of users. The penalties range from 20 years to life.

Act 264 tightens up requirements for scrap metal dealers who must maintain records of buying recycled parts, such as catalytic converters. The bill also makes it a Class C felony to possess stolen converters. It will be illegal to buy or possess a catalytic converter if it has been removed from a car the person does not own.

Act 629 prohibits the sale of Delta 8 products, a marijuana product made legal by the passage of federal Farm Bill in 2018, which legalized hemp production. The law has a loophole that allows for extraction of the ingredients that go into Delta 8. Previously, it was sold in stores with no regulation of packaging or marketing. The act has been challenged by manufacturers and sellers of the product.

Another high-profile bill has been challenged in the courts. Act 372 gives parents more options to have offensive material relocated or removed from local libraries and school libraries.

After making an objection to the librarian and if necessary making an appeal to the library board, parents then can appeal to the county Quorum Court or City Council. Both are composed of people elected by voters.

Act 372 removes the current exemption that protects librarians from criminal prosecution. If librarians knowingly maintain material that is deemed obscene, they could be prosecuted.

Act 612 makes pornography websites liable for harm they cause to minors, and requires them to make reasonable efforts to require age verification. For example, they can require a digital ID before allowing viewers to access the site.

Act 689 would require social media sites to verify the age of users, and users under the age of 18 would need parental permission. Prosecutors could seek fines of $2,500 per violation against the social media companies.

Other new laws affect transgender people, and physicians who perform medical procedures to change genders. Act 274 allows medical malpractice lawsuits against physicians who perform gender transformation procedures on children, for up to 15 years after the minor turns 18. In most medical malpractice cases the limit is two years after the injury.

Act 777 clarifies that you don’t need a permit to carry a concealed firearm in Arkansas.

SALES TAX HOLIDAY
Beginning at 12:01 a.m. on Saturday August 5, 2023, and ending at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday August 6, 2023, the State of Arkansas will hold its sales tax holiday allowing shoppers the opportunity to purchase certain Electronic Devices, School Supplies, School Art Supplies, School Instructional Materials, and Clothing free of state and local sales or use tax.
  
All retailers are required to participate and may not charge tax on items that are legally tax-exempt during the Sales Tax Holiday.
 

WHO WANTS TO BE A BILLIONAIRE?
That's the question the Arkansas State Lottery (ASL) is asking Arkansans ahead of tomorrow night's $1.25 billion Mega Millions drawing. Tickets remain on sale for tomorrow’s drawing at any of the more than 2,000 affiliated ASL retailers across the state.

Ashley McNatt, Advertising and Marketing Director the Arkansas Scholarship Lottery, stresses you don't want to miss a chance on winning the grand prize of $1.25 billion.

You don't have to get all the winning numbers right to get a chance at tonight's jackpot. Players are eligible to win a share of the jackpot at various tiers depending on how many winning numbers they correctly guess. The Aug. 2 drawing saw nearly five million people across the country win a cash prize - including 23,000 winning tickets in Arkansas alone.

The Arkansas Scholarship Lottery stresses that no one is a loser when they play - even non-winning tickets contribute to the thousands of scholarships awarded to Arkansas students each year. Over a billion dollars and more than 700,000 scholarships have been awarded for Arkansas students since the creation of the lottery.

Again, don't forget to get your ticket today ahead of tomorrow's drawing for the Mega Millions $1.25 billion jackpot. And for more information on the Arkansas Scholarship Lottery, visit www.myarkansaslottery.com.

ARKANSAS BASS TEAM TRAIL
Are you ready to rumble???  Happening this weekend our open bass team tournament on the Ouachita River in Camden!  $2500 payout guaranteed plus some awesome prizes from our amazing sponsors!

Sign up here: https://www.arkansasbassteamtrail.net/.../rumble-on-the...Camden, Arkansas | STIK5 Rods | Frogg Toggs

CADC TO DISTRIBUTE USDA COMMODITIES AUGUST 16 AND 17, 2023 IN OUACHITA AND CALHOUN COUNTIES
The Central Arkansas Development Council will distribute USDA Commodities in Ouachita and Calhoun Counties Wednesday, August 16, and Thursday, August 17, 2022, in Camden and Hampton.  Distribution will begin at 9 am. 

Food Items May Include:
UHT Milk, Fruit Mix (Fruit Cocktail), Peaches, Raisins, Peas, Cream of Chicken Soup, Sliced White Potatoes, Kidney Beans, Hazelnuts, Mac & Cheese, Can Chicken, Corn

In Ouachita County, commodities will be distributed at CARNES PARK, Carnes Park Dr, Camden

In Calhoun County, commodities will be distributed at the CADC Office, 210 South Lee Street, Hampton, AR
(870) 626-0553

All customers receiving commodities must present identification. Photo ID Preferred

Must Meet Income Guidelines       

In accordance with federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation), disability, age, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity. Program information may be made available in languages other than English. Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication to obtain program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language), should contact the responsible state or local agency that administers the program or USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TTY) or contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. To file a program discrimination complaint, a Complainant should complete a Form AD3027, USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form which can be obtained online at:

https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/USDA-OASCR%20P-ComplaintForm-0508-0002-508-11-28-17Fax2Mail.pdf, from any USDA office, by calling (866) 632- 9992, or by writing a letter addressed to USDA. The letter must contain the complainant’s name, address, telephone number, and a written description of the alleged discriminatory action in sufficient detail to inform the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights (ASCR) about the nature and date of an alleged civil rights violation. The completed AD-3027 form or letter must be submitted to USDA by: 1. mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights 1400 Independence Avenue, SW Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; or 2. fax: (833) 256-1665 or (202) 690-7442; or 3. email: program.intake@usda.gov This institution is an equal opportunity provider. 

DETAILS ON JUNE 30TH PURSUIT RELEASED BY THE ARKANSAS STATE POLICE
August 1, 2023
Due to recent interest in a June 30th incident in which a Trooper performed a Tactical Vehicle Intervention (TVI) maneuver on a fleeing motorist, the Arkansas State Police (ASP) wishes to clarify details on the incident.

“We stand by our Trooper,” said ASP Colonel Mike Hagar. “And we stand by the decision he made, considering the totality of the circumstances.”

ASP was involved in only the final few seconds of the pursuit that Little Rock Police Department (LRPD) officers began. Before ASP engaged, LRPD had pursued the motorist for approximately 5 miles. During that time, the motorist had tail lights off, reached 115 mph and accelerated even after LRPD employed blue lights. Also of note is that the motorist passed at least two hospitals on Interstate 630, refusing to stop for LRPD.

Neither the driver, who later said she was transporting a passenger for medical treatment, nor the passengers in the vehicle were injured in the TVI, which occurred near Baptist Medical Center in Little Rock. The driver was charged with Misdemeanor Fleeing, not a felony, as was erroneously reported earlier this week and has since been widely circulated.

Troopers are trained to consider numerous factors to reduce risk of serious physical injury or death to innocent members of the public, the officer, and the suspect.  It is ASP’s duty to put the safety of the public ahead of all other factors.

Little Rock Police Chief Heath Helton expressed his appreciation for the strong partnership between his agency and Arkansas State Police. He explained that LRPD and ASP routinely work together to manage emergencies in the safest way possible.

“The Little Rock Police Department has a responsibility to protect and serve members of the public in this city,” Chief Helton said. “If there is a threat of criminal activity of any kind, we are obligated to pursue and investigate the threat. To that end, we enjoy partnerships with all local law enforcement agencies, including the Arkansas State Police, as we each work to combat issues of public safety.”

Any medical emergency that would warrant high rates of speed necessitates calling an ambulance or dialing 911. In this case, the motorist should have pulled over for law enforcement, who have emergency medical training and who could have aided in safe transport to the closest medical facility. Driving to the emergency room does not give someone a free pass to speed, violate laws and endanger the public.

“It’s very important for the public to trust their law enforcement. We also need to be able to trust our media partners and to know that what they’re saying is true,” Colonel Hagar said. “We’ve made a real effort in the past 7 months to build relationships and improve responsiveness and transparency. Providing comprehensive information and important context to the public is key to that. We will continue to be professional, open and responsive in hopes that ASP will be afforded the same courtesy.”

 

BOOZMAN, CARDIN PARTNER TO ENSURE VETERANS AND SERVICEMEMBERS RECEIVE HOME LOAN BENEFIT INFORMATION
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Ben Cardin (D-MD) introduced legislation to increase awareness and utilization of Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) home loan benefits. VA home loans offer lower down payments, interest rates and closing costs, likely saving veterans thousands of dollars over the life of the loan.

The VA Loan Informed Disclosure (VALID) Act of 2023 would provide potential homebuyers a comprehensive picture of veterans’ financing options through a side-by-side comparison of conventional, Federal Housing Administration and VA home loans. This legislation will help veterans make more informed choices about their financing options and potentially increase the utilization of VA home loans, which only up to 15 percent of veterans report using currently.

 “We can help fulfill the dream of homeownership by informing veterans about the benefits they have earned. VA’s home loans are underutilized, but this bipartisan legislation will provide the men and women who served in uniform another opportunity to learn about resources available to them to save money and meet the needs of their families,” said Boozman, a senior member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee.

“Buying a home often is the most expensive purchase an individual makes in their lifetime. For our veterans and servicemembers who have earned these benefits through service to our nation, we need to make it easier for them to learn about and access the savings they deserve.” said Cardin. “Far too many of our veterans are missing out on tens of thousands of dollars of savings; we aim to change that by making the disclosures and comparisons clear and upfront,” 

The legislation is supported by the Veterans Association of Real Estate Professionals (VAREP).

“As part of its ongoing commitment to veterans, VAREP applauds Senators Ben Cardin and John Boozman for support of expansion of legislation to include VA loans in the Informed Consumer Choice Disclosure, addressing a key informational gap. This change will empower veterans and servicemembers to make fully informed home loan decisions as they set their sights on the American dream of homeownership,” said G2 Varrato, National Legislative Committee Director of the Veterans Association of Real Estate Professionals (VAREP).

 

SENATE APPROVES PERMANENT ELECTRONIC DUCK STAMP 
Boozman, Manchin, Marshall, King Legislation Advances to House
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Senate unanimously advanced legislation led by U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR), Joe Manchin (D-WV), Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-KS) and Angus King (I-ME) to authorize an electronic stamp for use through the entirety of a waterfowl hunting season. 

The bipartisan Duck Stamp Modernization Act of 2023 will allow hunters immediate access to an electronic duck stamp via their smart phone to meet the requirement that they purchase a Federal Duck Stamp and carry it while in the field.

“This is an important step to improving access to Arkansas’s world-class duck hunting. This legislation incorporates technology in an easy-to-use manner for hunters to comply with license requirements while supporting conservation efforts. I’m proud the Senate has advanced this legislation and I look forward to swift consideration in the House of Representatives so we can get it to the president’s desk to be signed into law,” said Boozman, a member of the Migratory Bird Conservation Commission, which invests federal funds generated by the Duck Stamp in wetland preservation.

“As Co-Chair of the Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus and as an avid sportsman myself, I know firsthand how important our hunting and fishing culture is to who we are as West Virginians and Americans,” said Manchin. “I’m proud the Senate passed our bipartisan legislation to authorize a simple, electronic duck stamp that hunters in West Virginia and across the country can use for the entire waterfowl season. I will continue to work with my House colleagues to bring this commonsense bill to the president’s desk and expand access to enjoying duck hunting and the great outdoors.”

"Growing up, some of my best memories were out hunting with my dad,” Marshall said. “I think about how much the world has changed since those days, and it's a no-brainer to me that we would need to update and modernize our processes to keep up with the 21st century. The important part of this is that the traditions live on, and now, this bipartisan legislation makes it easier than ever to get outdoors and experience America's vast wilderness."

“From Bean Boots to Old Town Canoes, generations of Maine people have pioneered innovations to make getting outdoors easier. Decades later, this same commitment still drives sportsmen and women across our state and is the guiding principle of the Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus,” said King. “The Duck Stamp Modernization Act of 2023 embraces 21st century technology to put required duck hunting stamps just a phone tap away – making the great outdoors more accessible than ever. I’m proud to join my fellow Sportsmen Caucus members in unanimously passing this bill and hope we can continue making recreational activities a simple pursuit for all.”

The legislation was backed by a number of leading conservation and wildlife organizations.

 

COTTON, COLLEAGUES RECOGNIZE AUGUST AS NATIONAL CATFISH MONTH
Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas), along with eleven of his colleagues, introduced a resolution that would establish August as National Catfish Month. The resolution recognizes the contribution of catfish to the American economy and commends catfish farmers and workers.

“With Arkansas producing the third-most catfish in America, I’m proud to introduce this resolution recognizing August as National Catfish Month. We should celebrate this American classic that is important to both Arkansas and our country’s economy,” said Senator Cotton.

Senators Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi), John Boozman (R-Arkansas), Mike Braun (R-Indiana), Katie Britt (R-Alabama), Bill Cassidy (R-Louisiana), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Mississippi), John Kennedy (R-Louisiana), Thom Tillis (R-North Carolina), Tommy Tuberville (R-Alabama), and Raphael Warnock (R-Georgia) co-sponsored the resolution.
 

COTTON ACCEPTING SERVICE ACADEMY NOMINATIONS
Washington, D.C. – Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) announced today that he is accepting applications for service academy nominations. To be considered for a nomination, applicants must submit by Wednesday, November 1, 2023.

"Students who attend U.S. service academies and go on to serve their country in uniform are the pride of Arkansas, and I encourage each young Arkansan with a sincere interest to apply," Senator Cotton said.

Interested students can find the application, along with information on eligibility and other requirements, here. Please contact Nicole Millar (501) 223-9081 for any additional questions.

PURSUIT ENDS IN SUSPECT FATALITY
July 29, 2023
At approximately 10 p.m. on Friday, July 28, 2023, an Arkansas State Police (ASP) Trooper executed a Tactical Vehicle Intervention (TVI) maneuver to stop a fleeing suspect at the 283-mile marker of Interstate 40 East.

Suspect Demarcus Clark, 32, of West Memphis died from injuries he sustained in the incident. Clark was endangering the lives of other motorists by exceeding 120 mph and driving recklessly. The Marion Police Department initiated the pursuit earlier in the evening and requested assistance from ASP after the suspect fled from a traffic stop.

“As ASP Troopers, we take our duty to protect the public seriously,” said ASP Colonel Mike Hagar. “Last night, our Troopers put into action their oath to always put the lives of innocents ahead of their own and ahead of a suspect who made the reckless choice to flee from law enforcement. Although we regret any loss of life, we thank God that our brave Troopers made it home safe to their families.”

Immediately after the TVI, the suspect’s vehicle collided with another Trooper’s vehicle, injuring an ASP Sergeant, who was treated and released from a local hospital. Traffic on I-40 East was disrupted for more than 3 hours.

The incident is under investigation by ASP’s Criminal Investigation Division.

FORMER OFFICER CHARGED IN DEATH
July 28, 2023
Former West Fork Police Officer Chris Cordeiro, 34, was arrested Thursday and charged with Class A misdemeanor negligent homicide in connection with the Dec. 29, 2022, in-custody death of Michael Hanna.

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office asked the Arkansas State Police (ASP) Criminal Investigation Division to conduct an investigation into the death.

The Arkansas Commission on Law Enforcement Standards and Training (CLEST) is considering a request made by the West Fork Police Department to revoke Cordeiro’s certification, which would prevent him from law enforcement employment in Arkansas. 

Both ASP and CLEST are part of the Department of Public Safety.

 

TWO NEW EXHIBITS GRACE THE WALLS AT SAAC
The South Arkansas Arts Center welcomes two new art exhibits to its galleries for the month of August.  "Joie de Vivre" by Ruston artist Loretta Shadow will hang in the Merkle and Price Galleries and “Beginnings” by El Dorado artist John Ginger will be on display in the Lobby Gallery. These two exhibits will run August 2-20, with an artist’s reception on Saturday, August 5th from 6:00-7:30pm.

Born and raised in El Dorado, John Ginger did not come to art by a direct route. A 2005 graduate of El Dorado High School, he faced many challenges during his younger years. While he has never studied art formally, John had always felt connected and moved by it, from the first time he saw Van Gogh’s “Starry Night.” On January 7, 2022, John walked into a local art supply store and purchased a few items and started painting. According to John, “I felt like a new man.” 

After a friend saw his blossoming interest in art, she invited him to Gay Bechtelheimer’s watercolor studio class at the South Arkansas Arts Center. He joined the class, and it changed his life for the better. John said, “I owe everything to her and to everyone in that class. I don’t think I’ve ever been happier or more excited about my future.” 

John’s main objective with his exhibition is to inspire people to try something different that they might not otherwise try. “You never know. You might like it and discover that you are good at it. I sure did, and I think it is one of the best decisions I have ever made.” 

“I want to give a huge amount of credit to Gay and to the South Arkansas Arts Center. I really look forward to Gay’s class every week because it is fun and relaxing. I think I owe everything to Gay. Mrs. Bobbi introduced her to me, so I do also want to give credit to everyone that has encouraged me along the way. I feel like I am an all-around better person than I ever have been or ever would have been had I never started painting.”

Loretta Shadow said about her art, “As an artist, it is a joy to share with you, and the world, this myriad of color, fun, joy, and passion for life.  For me, painting is a process rather than a product.  It is the evolution of my very being leaping forth onto the paper or canvas!  Each piece is like a child and each piece goes through a life process for being born to being complete.  Painting is a spiritual experience where I encounter the presence of God and feel that my art pieces are co-created with our God who loves and cares for us all - each one.”

It is my hope that someone, somewhere, will be touched and moved to feel, to smile, to remember, and even, perhaps, to laugh or shed a tear when they encounter my work.  It is a reflection of my journey and a window into my soul.  To God be the Glory.”

Loretta Shadow Owens began painting in 1989 at the age of 40.  She enjoys working in water media and oils, and also has a passion for the process of drawing and painting.  Her paintings and drawings sometimes cause smiles and even laughter among fellow artists and outsider viewers. Her debut showing of her art was in May of 2001 in Ruston, Louisiana at the Townsend House during the Spring Artist Studio Tour.  Her drawing of Christ was published in a teaching book about compositions produced by M. Douglas Walton. 

Loretta holds two Bachelor of Science degrees from Louisiana Tech University - Home Economics Education and Animal Science. She also earned a Master of Science degree from the University of Tennessee.  She has studied at the University of Hawaii and Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge as well as in Europe on an extensive fashion and textiles tour with Stout State University in Menomonie, Wisconsin.

For more information about these two exhibits, please call SAAC at 870-862-5474 or visit the website at www.saac-arts.org.  SAAC is located at 110 East Fifth Street in El Dorado and gallery viewing hours are Monday- Friday 9:00-5:00.
 

ATTORNEY GENERAL GRIFFIN NAMES FORMER SENATE PARLIAMENTARIAN AND CHIEF LEGAL COUNSEL TO ESG OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE
Griffin: 'I can think of no better choice than Steve Cook to serve on the ESG Oversight Committee”
LITTLE ROCK – Attorney General Tim Griffin today issued the following statement announcing the appointment of former Senate Parliamentarian and Chief Legal Counsel Steven “Steve” Cook to the ESG Oversight Committee created by Act 411 of 2023:

“For the eight years I served as Lieutenant Governor, Steve Cook was a trusted advisor and friend who demonstrated integrity and wisdom. Steve recently retired from the role of Parliamentarian and Chief Legal Counsel for the Senate after 44 years of distinguished service to Arkansas. I am delighted he has agreed to accept this appointment to the ESG Oversight Committee. Steve will serve the people of Arkansas well. I can think of no better choice than Steve Cook to serve on the ESG Oversight Committee.”

Act 411 created the ESG Oversight Committee “to determine a list of financial services providers that discriminate against energy, fossil fuel, firearms, or ammunition companies or otherwise refuse to deal based on environmental, social justice, and other governance-related factors.” Public entities may not invest cash funds with any provider appearing on the list.

Cook began his career in the legislature in 1979 as a bill drafter and committee staff analyst for the Bureau of Legislative Research before becoming the Assistant Chief of Staff for the Senate in 1985. He earned his bachelor’s degrees in history and political science from Arkansas Tech University and his Juris Doctorate from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville School of Law.

SPEED ENFORCEMENT CAMERAS NOW LEGAL IN ARKANSAS INTERSTATE WORK ZONES
ALL COUNTIES | July 28, 2023
Beginning August 1, Arkansas law enforcement officers will have a new tool to help enhance safety by utilizing automated speed enforcement cameras in Interstate work zones.

Senator Kim Hammer (R) and Representative Lanny Fite (R) introduced the legislation, which was approved by the Arkansas State Legislature and signed by Governor Sarah Sanders earlier this year.  The law allows for the use of automated speed enforcement devices to capture images of speeding vehicles in Interstate work zones. Information regarding the speeding vehicle will be transmitted to an officer stationed downstream, who will then have the authority to issue a warning or citation.  

“This technology will help save lives,” said ARDOT Director Lorie Tudor. “I want to thank the Arkansas State Legislature and the Governor for enacting this law in the interest of worker and motorist safety across the State.”

This technology is solely used to assist officers in enforcing speed limits in Interstate work zones. It will not be used to issue tickets by mail. An officer must be present for a warning or ticket to be issued. Signs will alert drivers when they are entering a work zone that may have automated speed enforcement devices in use. The law stipulates that data captured from these devices shall not be retained except when it is used to issue a warning or citation.

“With the ongoing shortage of law enforcement officers, this technology will help supplement our existing officers’ efforts to keep Arkansas roadways safe,” said Arkansas Highway Police Chief Jeff Holmes. “The automated camera’s presence in the work zone means we can have an officer stationed downstream to safely perform traffic stops outside of the work zone, keeping everyone safer.”

STATE CAPITOL WEEK IN REVIEW FROM SENATOR MATT STONE
July 28, 2023
LITTLE ROCK – The Arkansas Highway has held four events around the state to commemorate the 31 projects paid for with a half-cent sales tax approved by voters 10 years ago.

In 2012 Arkansas voters approved the sales tax increase and since then it has generated about $1.8 billion in revenue, which has paid for improvements to about 200 miles of highway.

The projects are collectively called the Connecting Arkansas Program, or CAP, and they represent one of the largest highway programs in the history of the state.

In 2011 the legislature voted to place the sales tax measure on the 2012 ballot, and it was approved in a statewide election by 58 percent of Arkansas voters.

In 2019 the legislature referred to the ballot a proposal to make the half-cent for highways permanent. It had been scheduled to expire in 2023, after being in effect for 10 years. In 2020 Arkansas voters approved the proposal, with 55 percent of voters in favor of making the half-cent sales tax permanent.

Approval of a sales tax as a funding source for highway programs was an important milestone. Historically, the major source of revenue for road improvements had been the motor fuels tax, which is paid by motorists at the gas pump.

The state motor fuels tax on gasoline is 24.5 cents per gallon, and for diesel it’s 28.5 cents a gallon.

With motor fuels taxes as the foundation of highway funding, the problem for highway officials is that revenue has been steadily declining even as costs of construction goes up. For one thing, cars and trucks are much more fuel efficient nowadays.

Typically, to build a new interstate costs $9.4 million to $14 million per mile. A rural two-line highway costs $4 million a mile.

For example, 30 years ago a typical sedan used 30 gallons to drive 400 miles, and today a sedan is capable of going 400 miles on just 15 gallons. In other words, that typical family sedan now pays half in motor fuels taxes what it did 30 years ago.

Sales tax revenue increases with inflation. If the price of a candy bar goes from one dollar to two dollars, the sales tax collected by the state is doubled. However, even when inflation raises the price of a tank of gas, the state Transportation Department does not collect more in motor fuels taxes.

It doesn’t matter if it costs $3 a gallon or $4 a gallon, if you buy 10 gallons of gas the state will collect 24.5 cents a gallon, or $2.45 for each 10 gallons of gasoline you buy.

The federal government also collects a motor fuels tax, in addition to the state taxes. They are 15.44 cents a gallon for gas and 21.44 cents per gallon of diesel. Arkansas has been getting on average about $780 million a in federal highway grants.

Arkansas has 16,454 miles of state highway, built and maintained by the state Transportation Department. We are the 12th largest state highway system in the country. Also, there are 65,553 miles of county roads and 17,240 miles of city streets in Arkansas.

The state maintains 7,356 bridges. Counties maintain 4,267 bridges and cities maintain 1.096 bridges.
 

LITTLE ROCK CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU HOSTS ‘TRAVELING WITH DENELLA RI'CHARD’ TRAVEL SHOW FEATURING LITTLE ROCK
Web and TV series promotes city's attractions, outdoor amenities, and eateries
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (July 28, 2023) — The Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau (LRCVB) announces a new web and television series, Traveling with Denella Ri'chard, highlighting Little Rock. The syndicated series will begin airing July 29, 2023 weekend in multiple national and international markets.

Traveling with Denella Ri’chard is a lifestyle and culture series that takes viewers on immersive journeys to some of the world’s most intriguing and memorable locations. In this episode, the show's host, Denella Ri'chard, will share her captivating journey as she explores Arkansas's capital city.

“Denella's authentic approach to travel resonates with people from various backgrounds, making her an ideal partner for us and our goal of reaching national and international attention for our city,” said Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau Vice President of Marketing, Communications & Community Engagement Kasey Summerville. “The Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau looks forward to welcoming travelers from near and far who’ve learned about our city through Denella’s segment,” she added.

The Bureau's partnership with Denella Ri'chard stemmed from the LRCVB’s 10-year Tourism Master Plan for Little Rock, which has been instrumental in guiding efforts to promote the city as a top leisure travel and convention destination. The Ri’chard collaboration aligns with the Bureau’s goal of exploring new avenues in reaching diverse audiences across the country and world.

The episode is set to air the weekend of July 29th. The show airs on various ABC, CBS, NBC and CW affiliate stations, as well as streaming platforms GFNTV, GoTraveler, and Tubi. SHOW LINK: Little Rock, Arkansas - Traveling with Denella Ri'chard - GFNTV

To learn more about the series Traveling with Denella Ri’chard visit travelingwithdenella.com .

 

FOUR ARKANSAS EDUCATORS NAMED TEACHER OF THE YEAR STATE SEMI-FINALISTS
LITTLE ROCK – At a recognition event at the Governor’s Mansion, Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders and Arkansas Department of Education Secretary Jacob Oliva announced the four Arkansas educators selected as 2024 Arkansas Teacher of the Year State Semi-Finalists. The finalists were chosen among 14 regional finalists, who also were recognized.

“I’m so proud to host this year’s Teacher of the Year and our 2024 finalists," Gov. Sanders said. "As Capri Salaam steps into her new role, I’m glad to know that our 14 finalists to be next year’s Teacher of the Year bring equally strong passion and resumes. After all, a quality education isn’t possible without quality educators.”

“Congratulations to this year’s state semi-finalists,” Oliva said. “It’s clear that these educators exhibit excellence in the classroom, among their peers, and in their community. I look forward to announcing one of them this fall as the next Arkansas Teacher of the Year.”

Each of the state semi-finalists listed below received a $1,000 prize provided by the Walton Family Foundation as a regional finalist and an additional $1,000 prize as a state semi-finalist.

Nicole Franklin
English Language Arts and Social Studies, Grades 4-5
Orr Elementary School
Fort Smith School District
Guy Fenter Education Service Cooperative

Jeremy Kennedy
AP English Language and Composition, Grade 11
Greenbrier High School
Greenbrier School District
Arch Ford Education Service Cooperative

Beau McCastlain
Career and Technical Education — Television Production, Grades 10-12
De Queen High School
De Queen School District
De Queen-Mena Education Service Cooperative

Kassadi Seidenschnur
Library Media, Grades K-5
Hurricane Creek Elementary School
Bryant School District
Dawson Education Service Cooperative

The Arkansas Teacher of the Year program is part of the National Teacher of the Year program, which honors educators for their teaching and leadership skills. Site visits will be conducted for each of the four state semi-finalists, and the 2024 ATOY will be named this fall. The state winner will be eligible to apply for the national program.

To learn more about the ATOY program, visit https://bit.ly/3jiLkL2.
 

SAAC TO OFFER POPPIN' RED HOT POPPY PAINTING CLASS ON AUGUST 15 
The South Arkansas Arts Center invites you to "pop" in and get out of the heat so you can uncork your creativity at the August Corks and Canvas art class!  This month’s Corks and Canvas class is being led by popular local artist Marla Tomlinson and will be held on Thursday, August 15 from 6-9pm. This will be a fun-filled night of painting designed for people who have always wanted to try their hand at art while also having some fun along the way.  

This month, our artist Marla has chosen an acrylic painting of poppin' red hot poppies for the project. The red poppy is known to symbolize remembrance, resilience, and peace.  You will create your own 12x 12 painting of this bold and beautiful wildflower that you can hang in your home.  

Marla, who is originally from Northwest Florida, moved to El Dorado in 2014. "One of the first things I discovered was the arts center," she said. "I joined as a member and I have exhibited work in the SAAC shows every year since as well as hosted a solo exhibition in 2020." In addition to teaching corks and canvas, Marla has also served as member of the visual arts committee at SAAC. 

Corks and Canvas classes have something for everyone from the newbie to the seasoned artist. No experience is needed. Enjoy a time of relaxation with your friends re-creating the featured painting of the night. Paints, brushes, and all the supplies are provided.  Participants are welcome to bring their own drink of choice. 

You can register for the hands-on workshop on SAAC’s website, www.saac-arts.org or call the office at 870-862-5474.  Limit of 12 participants. The workshop fee is $40. 

SAAC is located at 110 East Fifth Street, El Dorado, Arkansas. 

MISSING BEARDEN MAN’S FAMILY ASKS FOR HELP IN SEARCH
**CASH REWARD OFFERED**
The Ouachita County Sheriff's Department is requesting everyone to please be on the lookout for Mr. Johnny Strong. He is 70 years old, stands 6’0” tall, has brown eyes and balding grey hair. Mr. Strong was last seen in the Bearden area wearing a gray shirt, blue jeans, and a dark hat.

If you know Mr. Strongs location or come across him please call 911 Or 870-231-5300 X1

The Family of Mr. Strong is offering a substantial cash reward for information that leads to the finding of Mr. Strong. After information is provided

If you know Mr. Strongs location or come across him please call 911 Or 870-231-5300 extension 1

Mr. Strong has been missing since 7/19/23 from the Bearden, Holly Grove area. According to the family, there are no leads but are not giving up on finding him. There will be a search this Saturday in the community where he was last seen, Everyone is asked to come out on Saturday for a little while just to broadcast the search. The family will pay any fees. This is a well-known man in the community, business owner, hard worker with nothing but a great reputation for being a hardworking man.

Meeting time Saturday: 7:00am
Meeting location: 1676 Hwy 9 Bearden, AR 71720 

LEMONADE STAND DAYS-YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS
Ouachita Partnership for Economic Development , SAU Small Business and Technology Development Center and Camden Area Chamber of Commerce-AR Working With The Community And Future Young Entrepreneurs!!
Thank you Generations Bank of Camden and Camden Downtown Network for allowing Ouachita Partnership for Economic Development , SAU Small Business and Technology Development Center and Camden Area Chamber of Commerce-AR partnering with you on Lemonade Days . We have a great group of Future Entrepreneur's.

Our own Florence Nunn with SAU Small Business and Technology Development Center gave an seminar to the Young Entrepreneurs at OPED on “How to start your Business” and gave them some business tips on marketing and social media!!

Ouachita Partnership for Economic Development , SAU Small Business and Technology Development Center and Camden Area Chamber of Commerce-AR will be helping with Social Media so stay tuned to our Facebook pages for where these Young Entrepreneur’s stands will be and go out and support them!!

Lemonade Days are part of the Camden Downtown Network-Camden Staycation Events happening July 31st through August 5th!!

Also, Attached is picture of one of our first Young Entrepreneurs that has already named her project and set a date of where she will be!! You will be getting more E-Blasts from the Chamber when we have more Entrepreneurs schedule their dates, please stay tuned!!

One of our first Lemonade stand owners has set her first day that she will be open!!

 “It’s in the Bag Lemonade Stand” can be found Tuesday-August 1st 5:30p-8:30p @ Carnes Park for the National Night Out.

CashApp will also be accepted @ $KennedyPennywell #LemonadeDay2023
 

TREASURER OF STATE MARK LOWERY TO LIE IN STATE IN ARKANSAS STATE CAPITOL ROTUNDA FRIDAY,
JULY 28TH SET ASIDE FOR PUBLIC TO PAY RESPECTS
(LITTLE ROCK, ARK.) – Arkansas Secretary of State John Thurston announced Thursday that the late Treasurer Mark Lowery will lie in state in the second floor rotunda of the Arkansas State Capitol on Friday, July 28, 2023 from 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. Friends, family, staff, and the public are welcome to come and pay their respects.

 

BOOZMAN CALLS FOR ROBUST OUTREACH IN RURAL AREAS TO CONNECT VETERANS WITH INFO ON PACT ACT BENEFITS
Encourages Eligible Veterans to File Claims
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) pressed Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) officials on their outreach efforts to inform former servicemembers about expanded benefit eligibility as a result of historic legislation that became law last year delivering all eras of toxic-exposed veterans VA health care.

Boozman previously championed the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring Our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act of 2022, helping secure its passage.

Since its enactment, the VA has received more than 744,000 PACT Act-related claims, including more than 8,700 in Arkansas, and enrolled more than 2,200 Natural State veterans in VA health care.

During a Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee hearing Wednesday, Boozman shared the need to target rural communities for outreach. 

“One of the concerns that we have coming from Arkansas, and really all the states represented here - we have very rural areas,” Boozman said. “That’s where so many of our veterans come from.”

Veterans and survivors must file a claim before August 9 to be eligible for retroactive compensation. Post-9/11 combat veterans discharged more than 10 years ago and not enrolled in VA health care must enroll by October 1 to avoid a phased-in enrollment.

The law includes Boozman-backed provisions to expand benefits to Vietnam War-era veterans who served on military bases in Thailand as well measures to bolster recruitment and retention of the VA workforce in order to respond to the increase in benefit claims.

Boozman continues to advocate additional improvements to attracting highly qualified VA health professionals so the department can deliver the care veterans earned. In January, the senator joined Chairman Jon Tester (D-MT) to introduce the VA CAREERS Act to help fill critical roles at VA hospitals and clinics.

ARKANSAS STATE TREASURER MARK LOWERY PASSES           
Officials with the Arkansas Treasury confirmed Wednesday that State Treasurer Mark Lowery has died at the age of 66.

This statement came from the State Treasurers’ Facebook page.
“The Arkansas State Treasury staff is sad to announce the passing of Treasurer Mark Lowery.
Our focus now is to honor Treasurer Lowery and continue doing the work on behalf of all Arkansans that he entrusted us with. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.
“And who knows but that you have come to your position for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:14)
Mark Dale Lowery March 28, 1957 - July 26, 2023”

The news of Lowery’s passing comes just one day after it was announced Lowery was planning to retire his office at the end of September.

Lowery has faced several recent health issues following a two of strokes this year, one in March and a second more-severe stroke in June.

After being sworn in as Arkansas Treasurer of State on January 10, 2023, Mark Lowery served five terms in the Arkansas Legislature, the last two terms as House Chair of the Insurance and Commerce Committee, a member of the Education Committee as well as the Arkansas Legislative Council.

He was previously appointed by former Governor Asa Hutchinson to represent Arkansas on the Southern Regional Education Board (SREB) and has served on the Education Committee of the Southern Legislative Conference (SLC).

Lowery was lead sponsor of Arkansas’ Voter ID law passed in the 2017 session. He has also been the sponsor of every homeschool law passed since 2013 earning him the Family Council Trailblazer Award. Governor Hutchinson tapped Lowery to also be lead sponsor for Arkansas’ Outcomes-based funding model for higher education after he chaired the Higher Education task force examining duplication in degree programs and examining the possible need for assigning independent two- and four-year campuses to one of the two existing university systems.

In 2013, Lowery was the sponsor of legislation affirming Arkansas’ support for joint custody and co-sponsored the 2021 legislation requiring rebuttable presumption in joint custody.

Treasurer Lowery was a graduate of the University of Arkansas – Fayetteville earning a MA and BA in Communication. Prior to serving in the Arkansas House, Lowery has been a newspaper editor, taught Communications at the University of Central Arkansas and Henderson State University. Lowery also served as Chief of Staff in the office of Lt. Governor Mike Huckabee in the mid 90’s and later was the lobbyist and Executive Director of the Arkansas chapter of the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) from 2003 to 2011.

STATE AUDITOR, FORMER TREASURER DENNIS MILLIGAN ISSUES STATEMENT ON DEATH OF STATE TREASURER MARK LOWERY
Lowery succeeded Milligan as Treasurer in 2023
July 26, 2023 (Little Rock, Ark.) – Auditor of State Dennis Milligan, who took office on Jan. 10th, issued the following statement today regarding the death of his successor, State Treasurer Mark Lowery:

“I am shocked and disheartened to hear of the passing of State Treasurer Mark Lowery. The death of a fellow Constitutional officer and public servant is terrible news to hear.

 

“My prayers first and foremost are with his family, especially his children and grandchildren, as they navigate the enormously difficult process of losing someone so dear to them. I’m also keeping in my heart the wonderful staff at the Treasury, many of whom I served alongside during my tenure as Treasurer.

“Most importantly, I pray that everyone affected by this unexpected loss experience God’s peace that He speaks of in Philippians, the peace which surpasses all understanding.”

Milligan served as Treasurer of State from 2015-2023, prior to being elected State Auditor. Lowery, a former State Representative, was elected Treasurer in 2022 and took office in January.

SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE FOR STUDENTS STUDYING AGRICULTURE OR VETERINARY MEDICINE
LITTLE ROCK, AR— The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is now accepting applications for two scholarship programs for students enrolled in or entering an undergraduate or post-graduate degree program related to agriculture or a post-graduate degree program related to veterinary medicine. Applications will be accepted through August 31, 2023, and can be found at agriculture.arkansas.gov/scholarships/.

“The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is pleased to administer Act 706 which was sponsored by Senator Ricky Hill, Senator Missy Irvin, Senator Greg Leding, and Representative Deann Vaught during the 2023 legislative session and will provide scholarship funding for students seeking agriculture and veterinary careers in Arkansas,” said Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture Wes Ward.

Recipients of the agriculture scholarship for an undergraduate program may receive up to $8,000 per year for up to four years. Applicants must be enrolled in or entering an undergraduate degree program or a post-graduate degree program related to agriculture. Applicants must agree to work full-time in Arkansas for at least two years upon graduation.

Recipients of the rural veterinary scholarship may receive up to $15,000 per year for up to four years. Applicants must be enrolled in or entering a post-graduate degree program in veterinary medicine at an institution of higher education. Applicants must agree to work full-time upon graduation in rural Arkansas or for a licensed veterinary practice with at least 50 percent of the practice being food animals.

Selections will be based on academic achievement, character, leadership, career plans, and financial need.

More information about the scholarship programs can be found at agriculture.arkansas.gov/scholarships/. Please contact Amy Lyman at amy.lyman@agriculture.arkansas.gov with questions regarding the scholarship programs.

The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies and programs for Arkansas agriculture, forestry, and natural resources to keep its farmers and ranchers competitive in national and international markets while conserving natural resources and ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation. Visit agriculture.arkansas.gov/. The Arkansas Department of Agriculture offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
 

SENATE PASSES COTTON BIPARTISAN RESOLUTION AFFIRMING AMERICAN SUPPORT FOR ISRAEL
Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) released the following statement after the Senate passed his bipartisan resolution reaffirming American support for Israel:

“I’m pleased that a bipartisan group of my colleagues supported this resolution upholding that Israel is not a racist state, that Congress rejects any form of antisemitism, and that America will always be a staunch supporter of Israel. It is unfortunate that Democrat attacks on Israel necessitated Congress passing this legislation,” said Senator Cotton.

Co-sponsors of the resolution are Senators John Barrasso (R-Wyoming), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tennessee), John Boozman (R-Arkansas), Mike Braun (R-Indiana), Katie Britt (R-Alabama), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Ted Budd (R-North Carolina), Shelley Moore Capito (R-West Virginia), Bob Casey (D-Pennsylvania), Bill Cassidy (R-Louisiana), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Steve Daines (R-Montana), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Deb Fischer (R-Nebraska), Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Bill Hagerty (R-Tennessee), John Hoeven (R-North Dakota), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Mississippi), John Kennedy (R-Louisiana), Jerry Moran (R-Kansas), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Marco Rubio (R-Florida), Eric Schmitt (R-Missouri), Rick Scott (R-Florida), Tim Scott (R-South Carolina), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Thom Tillis (R-North Carolina), and J.D. Vance (R-Ohio).

CAMDEN AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NAMES NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
The Board of Directors of the Camden Area Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that Cindy Green has been named the new executive director of the Chamber. As the new Executive Director, Cindy will be focused on the three primary functions the Chamber strives to achieve: acting as spokesperson for the business and professional community translating into action the group thinking of its members; rendering specific services of a type that can be most effectively provided by a community organization both to its members and to the community as a whole; and serving as a driving force for recruiting business and industry to the area and aiding in the expansion of existing business and industry. Cindy will focus on economic, educational, and recreational growth benefitting small family businesses to high-technology industries located in Ouachita and Calhoun Counties.

A proud third generation Camdenite, Cindy is the daughter of Bobby Green and the late Regina Jennings Green and sister of Cathey Green Roberts and Charles Green. She graduated from Camden Fairview High School then continued her education at Southern Arkansas University where she received a Bachelor of Business Administration with an emphasis in Marketing.

After a multi-faceted career encompassing a variety of cultures both domestically and internationally, Cindy returned home to Camden during the pandemic. She most recently was a recruiter for SAU Tech, Camden’s hometown University, guiding potential students toward a path of academic and vocational preparation for successful careers involving applied science and modern technology within the community.

Cindy believes this is the optimal time for the Chamber to focus on research and strategic planning designed to benefit the entire community through both expanded and new economic opportunities, educational programming to prepare our future workforce, and exciting recreational experiences that make Camden a unique and desirable hometown, as well as a destination for visitors. Cindy’s conviction is that a great place to live is a great place to visit. She believes involving people in the conversation is crucial for them to feel they’ve been heard and are an important part of the process to drive our community forward. Green is honored to join the Chamber’s Board of Directors in their work to align with residents, businesses, industries, and government to make Camden and the surrounding areas an even greater place for residents to live, work and raise their families. 

Chamber President Gregory Nettles stated, “After an extensive search for a new executive director for the Camden Area Chamber of Commerce, the Board of Directors believe we have found the complete person in Cindy to direct future of the Chamber”. 

Cindy officially starts in her new role full-time on August 14. She looks forward to connecting with the business community and beyond and invites you to reach out to her at The Chamber in the historic Missouri-Pacific railroad depot.

OPERATION X-TENDED STAY RESULTS IN 186 ARRESTS
July 24, 2023
Last week the U.S. Marshals Service Eastern Arkansas Fugitive Task Force partnered with the Arkansas State Police (ASP), Little Rock Police, North Little Rock Police, Maumelle Police, Jacksonville Police, and the Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office in a joint initiative to remove wanted and repeat offenders from the streets of Central Arkansas.

Operation Xtended Stay was a coordinated dragnet that resulted in the arrests of almost 200 wanted individuals.

ASP contributed 25 Emergency Response Team members, provided air support and hosted the operation’s Unified Command Center. ASP made 71 arrests, including 12 felony charges, and issued 627 traffic citations.

“Arkansas State Police will always support and assist our federal, state and local law enforcement partners,” said ASP Colonel Mike Hagar. “Operation X-Tended Stay is an extension of our other recent efforts, such as Operation Safe Streets, to saturate Pulaski County, combating criminal activity that had been on the rise in recent months.”

Operation Safe Streets, which kicked off in May, is an Arkansas State Police initiative to saturate the Little Rock metropolitan area with an enhanced law enforcement presence intent on shutting down criminal activity. The ongoing stratagem has been enormously successful, with a running grand total of 2,404 officer violation contacts, with 1,473 arrests that include 53 DWI violations and 202 excessive speed violations.

The combined efforts of these law enforcement agencies resulted in the apprehension of three homicide suspects, four persons wanted on Battery 1st warrants, eight Aggravated Assaults, 19 weapons violations, four Robbery suspects, 12 convicted sex offenders wanted for failing to register, 59 felony narcotic offenses, three individuals wanted for federal probation violations, and eight state probation/parole absconders.

Also during this effort, nine illegal firearms were seized, along with significant quantities of methamphetamine, Ketamine, and fentanyl being taken off the streets.

2023 AAA GOVERNING BODY MEETING RESULTS
Little Rock - The Arkansas Activities Association held their annual governing body meetings on Monday inside the Statehouse Convention Center as schools voted on eight proposals.

Results
Proposal 1: Junior High Travel: 102 for, 0 against. Passed.
Proposal 2: Coaches Education: 293 for, 2 against. Passed.
Proposal 3: Financial Aid - Service Providers: 274 for, 15 against. Passed.
Proposal 4: Electronic Distribution: 294 for, 0 against. Passed.
Proposal 5: Non-Athletic Activities - National Contests/Events: 288 for, 1 against. Passed.
Proposal 6: 4A Basketball, Baseball & Softball Conferences: 185 for, 4 against. Passed.
Proposal 7: Competitive Equity - Football: 145 for, 44 against. Passed.
Proposal 8: Competitive Equity - Two Year Lookback: 172 for, 19 against. Passed.

Proposals No. 6, 7 & 8 were expected to be the most intriguing of the afternoon and required a super majority (2/3 vote) to pass. A link to each full proposal is at the bottom of this release.

Proposal No. 6, which was submitted from activity district 2 would change the format in class 4A for baseball, basketball and softball. Instead of having six conferences of eight teams, the proposal would change the format to eight conferences of six teams. The purpose of the proposal would be to provide more opportunities to reduce travel and to increase postseason participation. In the current format, only 12 teams reach the state tournament for the three sports while the new format would see that number increase to 16.

Proposal No. 7 is a football only proposal and would change a rule that was put into place just last year, which placed private schools into conferences after the public schools were divided up into classifications and conferences. In the current format, the 16 largest public schools are placed into conferences in 7A, the next 16 into 6A, the next 32 into 5A, and so on. After the public schools were divided, the non-public schools were then placed into a conference based on competitive equity factors and enrollment size. That caused some leagues to have more than eight teams. The new proposal would cap conferences at eight teams and then push public schools down and into a smaller classification.

Proposal No. 8 would change the current format for competitive equity factor look back. As it stands entering the vote, the lookback is over a four-year period with 10 points or more being considered dominant. Under the new proposal, the lookback would be two years and five points would be considered dominant. If a team accrues enough points and is considered dominant, they would move up one classification.

The points awarded for competitive equity would not change and are as follows:
1 point: A winning conference record
2 points: A state playoff or state tournament win
3 points: A state championship game appearance
4 points: A state champion

A team can earn a maximum of four points in a season.

BOOZMAN SHARES SERVICE MEMORIES OF BELLA VISTA VETERAN
WASHINGTON– U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) recognized the service and sacrifice of Gerald Vnuk in ‘Salute to Veterans,’ a series recognizing the military service of Arkansans. 
Vnuk grew up in Minnesota with six sisters. While his father was unable to serve in uniform, some of his uncles had military experiences, and he followed their example after being drafted in 1953 for the Korean War. Once he received his draft card, Vnuk was sent to Chicago before heading to Fort Lewis, Washington.

From his short time in the barracks, what stood out to him were the sleeping quarters. “It was unbelievable. The bunks were stacked three high. About 500 men in the room,” Vnuk recalled.

He rode a train to Washington, but his training was delayed because his records were lost. “The group that went with me were already two weeks in basic training, so I was put into another artillery company for basic training. That probably saved my life because the Korean War ended while I was in basic training,” he said.

Although he was not stationed overseas, Vnuk has many memories of his time in basic training and from working on base. He recalled one nighttime training exercise. “Some of the things they did you have to go out and sleep in a foxhole. One time they had special fox holes that you went in and then they run over you with a tank, so you had the experience of what to do when a tank was coming at you,” Vnuk said.

At Fort Lewis, he was initially part of the Illinois 44th Infantry Division National Guard, but was reassigned to headquarters to work in the AWOL Apprehension Division after his superiors learned he could type. Vnuk explained that the phrase “cut orders” in the military was when someone like him had to cut the stencil by hand to type orders for others. When he would type out orders for the warrant officers, he had to list their rank and name. “One time I typed up a letter for him to sign and instead of C.W.O, I put C.O.W. He came back and he said ‘I’m not a cow’ and I said well you are now,” the Army veteran remembered.

Vnuk was stationed at Fort. Lewis for nearly two years. Following military service he pursued higher education before accepting a job at a manufacturer of wool, ceiling tiles and bonded fiber materials. He started out as a tester then worked up to a manager and remained with the company for 37 years.

Looking back on his service, he said it helped him come out of his shell and be less shy. Vnuk has fond memories of training, saying there was good fellowship with others and that his service was “good for me and good for the country.”

Once he got his discharge papers, he joined the American Legion and later became involved with a post in Arkansas when he moved to The Natural State. He has been a member for over 35 years. He and his late wife Katherine, who were married for 45 years, were very active in the organization with Katherine even being named Woman of the Year for the American Legion.

For many years the couple volunteered at the Fayetteville VA Medical Center where Gerald worked in the x-ray department. “I just filed the records and all that and checked people in. It was interesting and there were good people to be around.”

Today, Gerald is 90 years old and calls Bella Vista home. His message to future generations is to “be patriotic.”

“When we honor the sacrifices of the men and women who served in uniform, it is important to remember all the many roles that need Americans to fill them to keep us safe. Gerald Vnuk honorably served our country, and I am grateful for his decades of dedicated engagement in his community and with his fellow veterans. Preserving his memories for the Veterans History Project is a great way to show our appreciation for his time in uniform,” Boozman said.

Boozman will submit Vnuk’s entire interview to the Veterans History Project, an initiative of the Library of Congress’s American Folklife Center to collect and retain the oral histories of our nation’s veterans.

MUSICFEST CELEBRATES 35TH ANNIVERSARY WITH A WEEKEND OF MUSIC, ATTRACTIONS AND FUN!

EL DORADO, AR (July 21, 2023) — Main Street El Dorado is inviting you to celebrate 35 years of live music, attractions, food and fun with MusicFest 2023 which is set for Friday, October 6, and Saturday, October 7, in historic Downtown El Dorado! What began as a one-day event in 1987 has grown into one of the largest outdoor festivals in South Arkansas and a highly anticipated weekend event that has been named Festival of the Year a record-setting seven times by the Arkansas Festivals and Events Association. Some of the most notable contemporary and classic artists of all time have graced MusicFest stages over the past three decades, spanning musical genres that include country, rock, pop, R&B, Latin, folk, jazz and more! The festival also showcases local and regional talent, while offering a variety of family-friendly entertainment, food vendors with delectable festival fare, beer gardens, and plenty of craft/sales vendors and community booths. Main Street El Dorado has spent the past six months planning entertainment and activities befitting a milestone anniversary celebration, Executive Director Beth Brumley said. "Me, personally, I'm excited! I was involved with the 25th and the 30th anniversaries and to still be around for the 35th and to have MusicFest back in the streets of downtown — we're just super excited!" said Brumley. Headliners were announced at the MusicFest Artist Announcement Party sponsored by Mustard Seed Wealth Management Thursday, July 20 at the soon-to-open Barefoot Bistro, Bakery and Catering building located at 101 E Main. MusicFest organizers have stacked the talent roster with +30 musical acts who will occupy three stages to keep the party going all weekend long. The Standard Lithium Main Stage will feature performances by TONIC, Payback: A Tribute to James Brown, Mad Hatters Dueling Pianos and DJ Kn0x on Friday night. The Cadillac Three, Lorrie Morgan and Jesse Keith Whitley will take the stage on Saturday night. The Cadillac Three Spending their formative years playing music together in basements and garages laid the foundation for THE CADILLAC THREE to put their own spin on each new record. They open a time capsule of their musical history together and expand on some of the grooves from COUNTRY FUZZ release with a new offering titled TABASCO & SWEET TEA via Big Machine Records. Dropping the sonic swirl with little warning, the new album is a welcome interruption to the mundane and stress felt around the globe. Jaren’s gritty vocals explode over unexpected guitar riffs as Kelby pounds out taut yet voluptuous bass lines mixed Neil’s gnarly, syncopated rhythms. Their boisterous, yet good-natured freewheeling vibe erupts with the title track and caps off the sequence with a calling-card biography, “Sabbath On Cornbread” to reinforce the electricity of their live show. Known across the globe for their unpredictable concerts – equally impressive and amped in a sweaty club or festival main stage – TC3 delivers. TONIC Tonic is an American rock band, formed in 1993 by Emerson Hart and Jeff Russo. Later members have included Dan Lavery, Kevin Shepard, and Dan Rothchild. Signed to a recording contract in 1995, the band released its debut album Lemon Parade in 1996. The single "If You Could Only See" reached No. 11 on the Billboard Airplay Hot 100 in 1997, and Lemon Parade itself reached platinum status. Outside of Tonic, each musician made a pronounced musical impact of his own. As a sought-after composer for film, television, and video games, Jeff wrote the score for HBO’s critically acclaimed The Night Of in addition to composing for Legion, Counterpart, Star Trek: Discovery, and more. He garnered the 2017 Primetime Emmy® Award in the category of “Outstanding Music Composition for a Limited Series, Movie, or Special” for Fargo. Dan played bass in the multiplatinum pop rock outfit The Fray before going on to establish himself as a writer and producer. In recent years, he’s been involved in artist management, working with the likes of Joe Jonas and Adam Lambert. Meanwhile, Emerson ignited a successful solo career, including albums such as Cigarettes and Gasoline [2007], Beauty in Disrepair [2014], and his 2019 third full-length 32 Thousand Days. No matter what, the members of Tonic find themselves coming back together, hitting the road every year. Lorrie Morgan Lorrie Morgan, the first woman in her genre to begin her career with three consecutive Platinum albums, is back in the studio with award-winning producer Richard Landis, working on a new album. It is sure to be yet another collection showcasing the rainbow of emotions, from darkest heartache to bright, shiny humor, that is the hallmark of Morgan’s range. Morgan is known for her lustrous vocal phrasing and the down-to-earth believability of her torchy performances. On records such as “A Picture of Me Without You" and "I Guess You Had to Be There," the ache is palpable. She is feisty and sassy on "Watch Me," "What Part of No" "Five Minutes" and "I Didn't Know My Own Strength." She has kicked up her stiletto heels in fun on her hits "Except for Monday" and "Go Away." On her epic "Something in Red" she is an honest, struggling everywoman. Jesse Keith Whitley Jesse Keith Whitley has generations of country music pumping through his veins. The son of Lorrie Morgan and the late Keith Whitley, and grandson of Grand Ole Opry legend George Morgan, Jesse was born with the gift of singing and songwriting. At age 23, Jesse has launched into his own career by signing with Octabrook Entertainment for touring and recording projects. Jesse has toured with his mother, playing popular venues in the Nashville area and all across the country. His performances have driven packed houses to their feet as he delivers his own brand of country, a mix of heartfelt ballads, southern rock and hard drivin’ country. It is clear that Jesse Keith Whitley is eager to craft his own distinctive style as both a singer and songwriter while still tipping his hat to tradition. This third generation singer/songwriter is here to work and here to stay. Local and regional acts will round out the PJ's Coffee and Canfor Southern Pine Acoustic stages. The lineup includes Grayson May, Crutchfield, The Taylormade Band, Brody McKinney, Blane Howard, the Side Street Steppers, Jimmy Lewis and 8 Second Ride, BlackStrap, Jayy Tune, Los de la Haacienda, Chris Loggins, Brooklyn Fogle, Jordan Sheppard, J.T. Lee, Cavin Kemble and local school bands, orchestras, and choirs. "I think we've got a well-rounded lineup and we've added some new things this year and we continue to grow and evolve," Brumley said. To learn more about MusicFest headliners, visit www.musicfesteldorado.com. Attractions and the Delek Kidz World MusicFest weekend will be chock-full of paid attractions and other activities for families and children. New to the festival this year will be the Roseburg GlowFest, a Friday Night Glow-Foam DANCE party for children ages 8 - 15. Music will be provided by DJ Kn0x. MusicFest attractions include the 4-Man Jumper System, Vertigo carnival ride, Fear Factory Ropes Course, Camouflage Camp inflatable obstacle course, a rock-climbing wall, laser tag and more! Kidz World, sponsored by the Delek Hope fund, will offer a host of free activities, including face-painting, putt-putt golf, archery and so much more including The Little Rock Zoo with Animal Ambassadors holding an animal meet-and-greet and Otto the Otter, the mascot for the Keep Arkansas Beautiful Commission, will be on hand to mingle with the crowds. Competitions Festival goers will be able to enter the RRCU Rib Cookoff, Murphy Pitard Jewelers Commemorative Necklace Drawing, South Arkansas Regional Hospital 5K/10K Run or Walk and Cole's Jewelers Miss MusicFest Pageant, which will be held on Sunday, Oct. 1 at the Municipal Auditorium. Volunteers Volunteers are needed for MusicFest XXXV to work two, four, and six+ hour shifts on both days. Volunteers will receive a volunteer t-shirt and depending on the number of hours that are worked, a choice of wristband for admission/concert or unlimited access to attractions. To sign up to volunteer please email ivolunteer@mainstreeteldorado.org with your Name, Age, Date and Hours you are available and which area you prefer to work. Tickets Tickets for MusicFest XXXV went on sale at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, July 20. Purchase at www.musicfesteldorado.com or mainstreeteldorado.org under the MusicFest tab. Main Street El Dorado is using the EventBrite website host for this ticketed event! Tickets will also be available at the gate during the festival with cash. Admission is free until 3 p.m. on Saturday, October 7. Children who are 10 years old and younger are admitted free all weekend. Early-Bird discount Weekend passes will $50 from July 20 - August 20 and will increase to $60 from August 21 - September 20. Discount weekend passes will NOT be available after September 20. Early-Bird discount gate admission for Friday only will be $35 from July 20 - August 20 and will increase to $40 from August 21- October 6. Early-bird discount tickets for Saturday only are $45 from July 20 - August 20. Saturday-only ticket prices will increase to $50 from August 21 - October 7. Pit passes are an additional $10 per day, per person and allows access to the barricaded area in front of the Main Stage. Also new this year…we are also offering the public a VIP concert experience!!! The add-on VIP ticket is $40 in addition to your gate/admission concert ticket and is only available to those aged 21+. It will offer a premium, side-stage experience with no huge crowds, air conditioned-private bathrooms, tables, chairs, unique MusicFest swag, hors d'oeuvres to snack on and two drink tickets per purchased ticket. Wristbands for all-day access to attractions are $10 on Friday and $20 on Saturday. MusicFest sponsors as of Announcement Party: MusicFest Sponsorship are still available until August 3rd. See sponsorship information and levels https://www.mainstreeteldorado.org/musicfest-sponsorship or email director@mainstreeteldorado.org Main Street El Dorado Main Street El Dorado is a nonprofit, Main Street America™ Accredited program that is committed to continued downtown revitalization. Main Street builds on the total image of downtown with an incremental approach that utilizes four elements: organization/membership, design, promotion and economic vitality. Main Street El Dorado, also celebrating 35 years, is among a national network of more than 1,200 neighborhoods and communities who share both a commitment to creating high-quality places and to building stronger communities through preservation-based economic development. All Main Street America™ Accredited programs meet a set of National Accreditation Standards of Performance as outlined by the National Main Street Center. For more general information or sponsorship opportunities contact Beth Brumley via email at director@mainstreeteldorado.org Call the Main Street office at 870-862-4747 View online at www.mainstreeteldorado.org or email Holly McDonald, Main Street El Dorado Executive Assistant at assistant@mainstreeteldorado.org.

 

 

 

STATE CAPITOL WEEK IN REVIEW FROM SENATOR MATT STONE
July 21, 2023
LITTLE ROCK – Every year the sales tax holiday is the first weekend in August. This year it will be Saturday, August 5, and Sunday, August 6.

Consumers will not have to pay sales tax on any articles of clothing that cost less than $100. The exempted items include not only ordinary clothing such as pants, shirts, dresses and shoes. Also free from sales tax are bathing suits, baby blankets, underwear, raincoats, uniforms, hats and caps, aprons, neckties, scarves and steel-toes boots.

Diapers, even disposal diapers, are included on the list of exempt items.

Accessories are also on the list of exempted items, as long as they cost less than $50. The list of articles is extensive, and includes handbags and purses, sunglasses, jewelry, hair notions, wallets, watches and wigs.

More than 65 categories of cosmetics are exempt from the sales tax, such as mascara, many types of hair products, fingernail polish and fingernail remover, bath salts, artificial eyelashes, perfume and stretch mark cream.

School supplies will be exempt from the sales tax. Officially the first weekend of August is called the sales tax holiday, but many people refer to it as the “Back to School” sales tax holiday. That’s because the legislature intentionally scheduled it for early August, to benefit families with children going to school.

School supplies include pens, pencils and paper as well as art supplies.

Thanks to Act 944 of 2021, approved by the legislature earlier this year, some electronic and computer equipment were added to the list of tax exempt items.

Laptops, desktops, tablets, printers, keyboards, calculators, cell phones, e-readers and monitors are exempt from the sales tax.  However, video games, stereos and televisions are not included.

Arkansas families will save an estimated $2.6 million on purchases of electronic and computer equipment.

The sales tax exemption applies to single articles, and is not based on the overall cost of everything you buy. For example, you can buy three shirts $25 each and a pair of pants for $50 and you will not be charged the sales tax, even though the total is $125. Because each item is less than $100, the exemption is applied.

However, if you buy a pair of shoes for $120, you will have to pay the sales tax on the full amount of the purchase.

Essentially, there is no limit on the number of exempt items you can purchase, as long as each item costs less than $100 for clothes or $50 for accessories.

There is no price limit on electronics and computer equipment, nor is there one on school supplies.

The exemption applies to all sales taxes, not just state sales taxes. That means exempt items are free of all city, county and local sales taxes.

All retailers have to participate. Articles cannot be separated in order to lower their price under the $100 and $50 thresholds. Men’s suits and pairs of shoes, which normally are sold as one unit, cannot be split into separate purchases.

ACT ASPIRE RESULTS SHOW LITTLE TO NO REBOUND FROM PRE-PANDEMIC LEVELS LITTLE ROCK – Statewide preliminary ACT Aspire results for Grades 3-10, released today by the Arkansas Department of Education, show little to modest increases from 2022, with many grades and subject areas reflecting decreases. Due to COVID-19, administration of the assessment was cancelled during the spring of 2020. When using 2019 test scores as a baseline for pre-pandemic student performance, 2023 scores show little to no rebound. Grade 3 reading scores showed the most alarming drop, declining from 35 percent of students reading at or above ready in 2022 to 32.2 percent in 2023. Even though modest gains were seen in Grades 4, 5, 8, 9, and 10, only Grade 8 reflects half of the students meeting grade-level expectations. “These scores demonstrate the profound need for the transformative change offered by the Arkansas LEARNS Act,” ADE Secretary Jacob Oliva said. “These results are a wake-up call, and we must stop the red-light, green-light tug of war with implementation and act with urgency. It’s time we move forward and focus on evidence-based approaches outlined in LEARNS that will result in increased student learning. Our students deserve nothing less.” The LEARNS Act offers numerous strategies to improve student outcomes. By empowering parents and investing in teachers, which includes raising salaries to some of the highest in the nation, students will have access to classrooms that best meet their needs. The act also includes provisions to hire statewide literacy coaches and provides funding for parents to employ high-impact tutors to assist struggling students. Additional highlights of this year’s assessment are below. Math scores experienced the sharpest declines from 2019. When compared to 2022, scores remained flat in Grade 5. Increases were noted in Grades 3, 4, 6, and 7, with declines noted in Grades 8-10. Science scores in Grades 3, 7, and 9 showed gains, with Grade 3 showing the most significant increase from the previous year. Grades 4-6, 8, and 10 saw a decrease from 2022. Spring 2023 was the eighth and final administration of the ACT Aspire assessment for Grades 3-10, as ACT is no longer offering the ACT Aspire test. Final ACT Aspire scores will be available in the fall of 2023.   ADE is developing an Arkansas-specific test – the Arkansas Teaching and Learning Assessment System (ATLAS) – which will be administered in the spring of 2024. ATLAS will align with Arkansas’ newly-adopted academic standards for math and English Language Arts.    To learn more, visit https://dese.link/2023TestScores.

CAMDEN WATER AND SEWER COMMISSION HOLD SPECIAL CALLED MEETING
The Camden Water and Sewer Commission held a Special Called meeting on July 20,2023 @3:00pm. The purpose of the meeting is to approve the minutes from the Water and Sewer Commissions regular meeting on July 18,2023.  In this meeting the Commission declared an Emergency to approve the Manager to purchase a used 2017 Freightliner Jet/Vaccum Truck because after 3 months of searching parts cannot be found to repair the 2003 Vacon Truck that is  in Camden Water Utilities fleet. This piece of equipment plays a vital roll in Camden Water Utilities being able to stay in Compliance with ADEQ by Preventing and correcting sewer overflows.           

 

ARKANSAS DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE TO HOST ARKANSAS FARM TO SCHOOL PILOT INSTITUTE
LITTLE ROCK, AR— The Arkansas Department of Agriculture (Department) is pleased to announce that the Department’s Farm to School and Early Childhood Education Program will host the first Arkansas Farm to School Institute (Institute). The Institute is a year-long professional development program where Arkansas farm to school teams will develop action plans for the 2023-2024 school year. 

“Farm to school initiatives play a crucial role in improving the health of students, building relationships between producers and schools, and strengthening the local food system through local procurement and education,” said Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture Wes Ward. “We look forward to providing Arkansas schools with the resources and training to build on existing farm to school efforts.” 

The Institute will begin with a summer retreat held from July 24 to 26, 2023, at the Winthrop Rockefeller Institute, and continue into the following school year. Teams will meet throughout the year to discuss action plan progress and provide feedback to Arkansas Farm to School and Early Childhood Development Program staff and coaches.

“The Institute provides a unique opportunity for the Department to support the growth of existing farm to school programs across the state,” said Jessica Chapman, Farm to School and Early Childhood Education Program Coordinator. “From the retreat to the end of the school year, we get to assist schools in the implementation of a school-wide plan that integrates all three aspects of farm to school – school gardens, education, and local procurement.”

To learn more about the Arkansas Farm to School and Early Childhood Education Program, visit arfarmtoschool.org/. For more information on the Institute, contact Jessica Chapman at jessica.chapman@agriculture.arkansas.gov.

The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies and programs for Arkansas agriculture, forestry, and natural resources to keep its farmers and ranchers competitive in national and international markets while conserving natural resources and ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation. Visit agriculture.arkansas.gov/. The Arkansas Department of Agriculture offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

 

WESTERMAN INTRODUCES JUVENILE JUSTICE REFORM LEGISLATION FOR VICTIMS OF SEX TRAFFICKING AND ABUSE
WASHINGTON - Today, Reps. Bruce Westerman (R-AR-04), Tony Cárdenas (D-CA-29), David Trone (D-MD-06), and Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-CA-37) introduced the Child Sex Crimes Victims Protection Act, legislation to reform the way juvenile victims of sex trafficking and abuse are sentenced if they retaliate against their abusers. 

“The United States is one of the only nations in the world that allows for sexually abused children who retaliate against their abusers to grow up in prison with no hope for parole or rehabilitation,” said Congressman Bruce Westerman (R-AR-04), member of the Bipartisan Second Chance Task Force. “That’s why I’m introducing the Child Sex Crimes Victims Protection Act to ensure that juvenile victims of abuse and trafficking have a second chance at life. We cannot turn our backs on the children of our country, and we cannot allow those who have experienced unimaginable circumstances to be left behind because they chose to fight back.”

"Judges should consider a child's experience and history when sentencing a juvenile," said Congressman Tony Cárdenas (D-CA-29). "Children must be treated with care, compassion, and understanding. The Child Sex Crimes Victims Protection Act is a step towards a more balanced, trauma-informed system that centers on healing and rehabilitation, rather than throwing a child’s life away and leaving them stuck in a cycle of incarceration."

“Our children must be given a second chance. We cannot allow their futures to be thrown away due to punitive and often discriminatory sentencing practices. The Child Sex Crimes Victims Protections Act, formerly known as Sara’s Law, provides our juveniles with the protections they deserve,” said Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-CA-37) “I am glad to introduce this bipartisan legislation with Congressman Westerman to eliminate the requirement to serve a mandatory minimum for those found guilty of crimes against persons who sexually trafficked or abused them, allow for the consideration of the culpability of juveniles compared to adults, and prohibits life in prison without parole sentencing practices. We must reform our system to rehabilitate individuals – not further traumatize them with these arcane practices.”

"We are one of few countries around the world that sentences children to die in prison. We ought to be ashamed of that," said Congressman David Trone (D-MD-06), co-founder and co-chair of the Bipartisan Second Chance Task Force. "A sentence of life in prison without out any possibility of release is excessively harsh for children, who do not have the same capacity as adults. In many cases, these children are themselves victims of abuse or neglect. We need a justice system centered around rehabilitation, and banning this sentence for young people will provide them with a chance to grow, learn from their mistakes, and lead productive lives once they've served their time."

Background:

The Child Sex Crimes Victims Protection Act provides that juveniles found guilty of crimes against persons who sexually trafficked, abused, or assaulted them shall not be required to serve the mandatory minimum sentence otherwise associated with the crime.

The bill also gives the court the ability to suspend any portion of a sentence imposed on a child who committed crimes against their abuser.

WESTERMAN VOTES TO SUPPORT AMERICAN AVIATION SAFETY AND INFRASTRUCTURE
WASHINGTON - Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 3935, the Securing Growth & Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act, legislation that will reauthorize the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for five years and improve American aviation safety and infrastructure. Congressman Bruce Westerman (AR-04) released the following statement on its passage:

“As a member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and Aviation Subcommittee, I was proud to play a role in passing this historic, bipartisan bill to reauthorize the FAA. This legislation affects more than just pilots and passengers. It also benefits other aviation associated groups like farmers, business owners, health care providers, and everyday folks. The passage of this bill is critical to American aviation safety and infrastructure and will ensure that the U.S. remains a global leader in aviation.”

Background:
H.R. 3935, the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act will benefit the El Dorado/Camden, Hot Springs, Texarkana, and Mena airports and will make significant advancements to support the agricultural aviation industry in the 4th District.

In part, the bill:
Improves efficiency at the FAA.
Supports the general aviation community.
Encourages aviation innovation.
Invests in U.S. airport infrastructure.
Enhances the passenger experience.
Upholds America’s gold standard in safety.
Strengthens the aviation workforce.
Authorizes the National Transportation Safety Board.

Congressman Bruce Westerman introduced two amendments that were included in H.R. 3935.

Westerman #96:
Makes technical corrections to Section 204 of the bill to ensure data privacy and safety of General Aviation aircraft, crew, and passengers.

This amendment will allow General Aviation aircraft to ask the FAA to block the plane’s aircraft code from the public.

Following incidents where people have tracked private planes and harassed passengers/compromised their safety, this amendment allows private planes to attest to a safety threat to the FAA and request that the FAA remove any public notice of the plane’s identification codes.

The FAA and other necessary air space users would still have the necessary information they need to properly steer air traffic and ensure airport logistics.

Westerman #97:
Ensures that the safety of manned aircraft is specifically taken into account when the FAA promulgates rules for Beyond Visual Line of Site (BVLOS) Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS).

UAS, or drones, operating in low altitude areas beyond the visual line of sight of the drone operator may potentially interfere with General Aviation aircraft and put pilots in jeopardy.

This amendment, cosponsored by Rep. Rick Crawford (AR-01), requires the FAA to ensure the safety of manned aircraft when making these regulations.

Click here to learn more about H.R. 3935, the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act
 

RURAL EDUCATORS HONORED BY ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES OF ARKANSAS
Magnolia and Rector Teachers Named Rural Teachers of the Year
Little Rock, Ark. — July 18, 2023 — The 2023 Arkansas Rural Education Association’s Teachers of the Year are Christy Owen of the Magnolia School District and Lauren Dorman of the Rector School District.

Owen and Dorman were each presented with a crystal apple gift and a check for $1,000 from the Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas. The Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas have sponsored the Rural Teacher of the Year Award since 2004.

Teacher-of-the-year nominations are vetted by the state’s 15 educational cooperatives, which then submit a finalist for each educational cooperative district to the Arkansas Rural Education Association for consideration.

The winners each agreed that teaching at rural schools can present challenges, but strong, consistent relationships and support by their communities and parents far outweigh the challenges.

The Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas comprise 17 electric distribution cooperatives; Arkansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc. (AECI), a Little Rock-based cooperative that provides services to the distribution cooperatives; and Arkansas Electric Cooperative Corp. (AECC), a generation and transmission cooperative. The distribution cooperatives provide electricity to approximately 600,000 homes, farms and businesses in Arkansas and surrounding states.

COTTON: STATES SHOULD FIGHT TRUE CHILD ABUSE, NOT PUNISH PARENTS FOR REJECTING SEX CHANGES FOR MINORS
Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas), along with Senator J.D. Vance (R-Ohio), Josh Hawley (R-Missouri), and Marco Rubio (R-Florida), introduced legislation to stop state governments from discriminating against parents who oppose ‘gender transitions’ for children. The Guaranteeing Unalienable and Anatomical Rights for Dependents (GUARD) Act would make a state government ineligible for Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (CAPTA) funds if that state discriminates against a parent or guardian in custody disputes for opposing medical treatment, clothing changes, or social changes related to a child’s subjective “gender identity.”

“If you don’t let your kid ‘transition’ to the opposite sex, certain state governments will help remove them from your custody. It sounds like dystopian science fiction, but it’s happening in the United States of America. Our bill would take funding away from states that abuse their power by taking away parents’ rights simply for opposing radical gender experiments,” said Senator Cotton.

“It is deeply disturbing that states like California, Oregon and Washington, are threatening to separate families if the parents don’t agree that their little boy is really a little girl. The GUARD Act will help protect parents, ensuring that they can make decisions in the best interest of their children without interference from overreaching state authorities,” said Senator Rubio.

The GUARD Act would:
Make any state government ineligible for Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (CAPTA) funds if they discriminate in child custody disputes, child services or cases against a parent or guardian based on their opposition to medical, surgical, pharmacological, psychological treatment or clothing and social changes related to affirming the subjective claims of so-called “gender identity” expressed by any minor, if such claimed identity is at odds with the minor’s biological sex.

Create a private right of action for individuals to sue if they were subject to the prohibited discrimination. If a suit is successful, CAPTA funds granted to the state are required to be returned to the Treasury. 

Background:
The California legislature is currently pushing a bill to require judges to consider whether a parent or guardian is “gender affirming” when deciding custody disputes. This violates the religious freedom, conscience, and medical rights of parents.

This practice isn’t new: Left-leaning states such as California, Oregon, and Washington have been removing children from their non-affirming parents’ care for years.

In the case of Abby Martinez, her daughter was removed from her care and ultimately committed suicide.

STATE POLICE PURSUIT ENDS IN SUSPECT FATALITY
At approximately 8:40 a.m. on July 17, 2023, an Arkansas State Police (ASP) Trooper executed a Tactical Vehicle Intervention (TVI) maneuver to stop a fleeing suspect at the 17-mile marker of Highway 67 North.

Andrew Muggs, 25, of Lonoke County died from injuries sustained in the incident. Muggs was endangering the lives of other motorists by exceeding 100 mph and passing vehicles on the left shoulder during the 14-mile pursuit, which was initiated on Landers Road by the Sherwood Police Department.

“We regret any loss of life,” said ASP Colonel Mike Hagar. “We will use this unfortunate occasion to remind the public that our Troopers will always put the lives of innocent motorists ahead of their own and ahead of a suspect who makes the reckless and selfish choice to flee from law enforcement.”

The incident is under investigation by ASP’s Criminal Investigation Division
 

ASCL DIRECTOR KERMIT CHANNELL TO RETIRE; J.R. HOWARD TO SERVE AS ACTING DIRECTOR
July 17, 2023
Arkansas State Crime Lab (ASCL) Director Kermit Channell announced today he will retire, effective August 31.

Arkansas Public Safety Secretary Colonel Mike Hagar announced that J.R. Howard will serve as acting ASCL director.

Howard brings with him a wealth of knowledge and experience, having served as ASCL director from April 2004 to May 2007, when he was inducted as U.S. Marshal for the Eastern District of Arkansas. He also served more than 34 years with the Arkansas State Police, which included a 16-month stint as director beginning in 2011. 

Channell began working at the ASCL in 1987 in the Medical Examiner’s Office. A decade later, he helped establish the DNA database program in Arkansas and assisted in the advancement of convicted offender legislation. During his tenure, he served in a number of capacities before being appointed as director in 2007.

“The State of Arkansas is indebted to Kermit for his many years of service and for shepherding the crime lab through an important time,” Colonel Hagar said. “We appreciate that J.R. has again agreed to take a break from his retirement to lead the ASCL until a new director is selected.”
 

SUNBLOCK YOUR SUMMER BUDGET – UTILITY BILL TIPS FROM ENTERGY ARKANSAS
Little Rock, Ark. – Each season of the year has its own impact on energy bills, with summertime usually trending bills up. Increasing energy usage during hot summer temperatures can lead to higher bills – burning up summer funds. Entergy Arkansas is sharing tips to help customers sunblock their utility budgets during the summer heat!

Entergy Arkansas offers a variety of energy efficiency programs and resources to help keep bills affordable – from easy do-it-yourself tips such as changing air filters and closing curtains, to products like free fans, energy efficiency kits and low-cost programmable thermostats. Because cooling costs make up approximately 55% of an average customer’s electric bill, Entergy Arkansas urges customers to combine these tips and products to help keep summer energy usage down.

For customers who are already facing high bills from the summer heat, we are doing everything we can to make payment assistance available. We offer these bill management tools to help them gain a better understanding of their energy usage and manage their payment options:

LIHEAP – LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) is a program that provides money to help people with energy bills and other energy-related expenses. LIHEAP is funded through the federal government and works with local community action agencies to help customers pay for and keep electric service in their homes. Summer LIHEAP bill assistance is open July 10 – September 30.

Level Billing – Entergy averages your bill over a rolling 12-month period, so you have a consistent bill each month of the year. Pay about the same every month, with no surprises.  

Pick-A-Date – Choose what day of the month you get billed to line up with your budget and manage your cash flow. 

Deferred Payment – Talk with us about your situation and we may be able to make deferred payment arrangements. Call 1-800-ENTERGY (1-800-368-3749). 

PaperFREE – Billing allows customers to get their Entergy bill delivered directly to their email as soon as it posts. 

AutoPay – Allows customers to avoid late fees, writing checks and paying for postage by having their bill automatically deduct from their bank account. 

Payment Extension – Qualifying customers who need additional time to pay their bill can call our automated answering system at 1-800-ENTERGY (1-800-368-3749) or request an extension through myEntergy. 

Power to Care – Through Entergy's The Power to Care program, local nonprofit agencies can provide emergency bill payment assistance to seniors and disabled individuals in crisis. 

In addition to do-it-yourself tips and products, Entergy Arkansas provides free in-home energy assessments and rebates through the Entergy Solutions program to help reduce the up-front cost of installing energy-efficient equipment, such as high-efficiency HVAC tune-ups, insulation, air sealing and duct sealing. Customers can access these benefits at www.entergy-arkansas.com/energy_efficiency/main/.

Customers with an advanced meter are encouraged to download the mobile app to understand how factors like weather and usage levels impact costs before the next bill arrives. 

Customers who may be having difficulty paying their bills are encouraged to visit www.entergy.com/answers/ or call 1-800 ENTERGY (1-800-368-3749). Customer service representatives can review your account and describe available bill help options that may work best for you and your family.

 

ARKANSAS STATE BROADBAND OFFICE LAUNCHES SURVEY, COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT EFFORT TO BUILD DIGITAL SKILLS AND OPPORTUNITY PLAN
The final report, due in November 2023, will lay out an action plan to get all residents the digital skills needed to enhance education, healthcare, agriculture, local economies and more.
Little Rock, Ark (July 17, 2023) – The Arkansas State Broadband Office (ASBO) recently launched its Digital Skills and Opportunity Survey as part of the state’s larger planning process to better understand the complexities of the digital divide. As part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act that Congress passed in 2021, Arkansas received more than $840,000 to study the state’s digital divide, create a plan to address its digital skills gap, and learn more about the unique challenges that stand in the way of various segments of the state’s population affording and using high-speed internet. This comes on top of an additional $5 million investment to create a five-year action plan for internet access.

The ASBO is overseeing all work related to the development of both plans and is committed to expanding access to affordable, high-speed internet to all Arkansans. To ensure the agency engages with all segments of the population, the office has contracted with Heartland Forward, a Bentonville-based nonprofit organization, to coordinate engagement with Arkansas counties, mayors, community members, and other key stakeholders across the state – such as members of the Arkansas Connectivity Coalition including the University of Arkansas, University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture Cooperative Extension Service, Winrock International, Communities Unlimited and the Arkansas Black Mayors Association. These partners are working with the ASBO to conduct focus groups, along with other information gathering efforts, that will inform the state’s final plan.

“Ensuring that all Arkansans have the digital skills essential for the 21st Century digital economy is critical for our state’s future success,” said Arkansas Secretary of Commerce Hugh McDonald. “Understanding – and eliminating – the digital skills gap is an important element in developing the state’s workforce and providing a brighter future for Arkansans.”

Specific work undertaken by these stakeholders includes assembling the Digital Skills and Opportunity Survey to collect additional information on how and why people use the internet, including challenges they experience and the resources that would be helpful to them in the future. These partners will work with organizations and individuals across the state who have relationships with community members to help the ASBO disseminate these surveys, both online and in paper formats. Additionally, the ASBO and its partners will host a series of community listening sessions, focus groups and interviews to directly engage with communities targeted through the plan.

“Building out broadband access to every single home and business in the state of Arkansas is only one piece of the puzzle,” said Glen Howie, Arkansas State Broadband director. “To positively impact lives for the better, we must see to it that all Arkansans are empowered with the digital skills and resulting opportunities to take full advantage of universal broadband access.”

All stakeholders in the planning believe that getting this right will advance the state's potential for future economic success in addition to improving quality of life in every community across the state.

“Digital opportunity means making sure all Arkansans, whether they're in the center of Little Rock or 20 miles away from the closest public library, can quickly and affordably get online,” said Solomon Graves, director of public policy at Heartland Forward. “Getting Arkansas as close as possible to a reality where all people and communities have the infrastructure and technology they desire will make a huge impact in boosting our state’s education, healthcare, agriculture, economic development and overall quality of life.”

The final Digital Skills and Opportunity plan is due to the federal government by mid-November. Thirty days prior to its submission to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), a version will be available for all Arkansans to review and share feedback through a public comment process. The current planning process is particularly important because Arkansas’ report will set the state up to be competitive with other states and territories for additional investments in closing the digital divide going forward.

 

SENATE COMMITTEE APPROVES BOOZMAN LANGUAGE TO IMPROVE SEC RULEMAKING
WASHINGTON––Following U.S. Senator John Boozman’s (R-AR) push for an audit of the Securities and Exchange Commission’s (SEC) rulemaking process, the Senate Appropriations Committee Thursday adopted provisions in its Fiscal Year 2024 Financial Services and General Government (FSGG) bill to improve the agency’s rulemaking practices and ensure proper oversight.

“The SEC has issued an immense number of proposals at an unprecedented pace in this administration. The scope and scale of the rulemaking has been hurried resulting in critical steps in the process being skipped, including cost-benefit analyses. It’s also left stakeholders with little time to assess impacts and provide meaningful input. Incorporating measures to hold the agency accountable and ensure it’s following proper procedure is commonsense. I look forward to supporting this legislation on the Senate floor,” Boozman said. 

In March, Boozman authored a letter signed by FSGG Ranking Member Bill Hagerty (R-TN) and other Senate Republicans to the Acting Inspector General calling for an audit of the SEC. The senators also shared their concerns about the limited comment periods and the challenges for stakeholders.

 

COTTON WARNS TOP LAW FIRMS ABOUT RACE-BASED HIRING PRACTICES
Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton today sent letters to 51 law firms detailing the possible federal civil rights laws they and their clients may be violating with Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs, if those programs treat people differently based on race. The letter advises the law firms to preserve documents relevant to those DEI practices in preparation for congressional oversight and private lawsuits over illegal racial discrimination in DEI programs. 

In part, Senator Cotton wrote:

“Federal law has long prohibited treating employees differently because of their race. Employers should take to heart the Supreme Court’s recent declaration that ‘eliminating racial discrimination means eliminating all of it.’ Congress will increasingly use its oversight powers—and private individuals and organizations will increasingly use the courts—to scrutinize the proliferation of race-based employment practices.”

Full text of the letters may be found below.

July 17, 2023
Dear _______,

I write regarding your firm’s employment law practice. In recent years, many major corporations have adopted race-based hiring quotas and benchmarks as part of their “Diversity, Equity & Inclusion” (“DEI”) initiatives. This is often driven by investment firms like BlackRock that pressure companies to implement DEI hiring policies to satisfy their “Environmental, Social, and Governance” mandates. These initiatives are both unpopular and unlawful. Your firm has a duty to fully inform clients of the risks they incur by making employment decisions based on race.

The Supreme Court recently struck down racial discrimination in college admissions. Though that case focused on colleges, the same principles and indeed the plain text of federal law also cover private employers. Title VI of the Civil Rights Act already prohibits federal fund recipients from discriminating based on race. Title VII likewise prohibits private employers from basing hiring decisions on race, prompting a U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commissioner to recently warn that “diversity programs pose both legal and practical risks for companies.”

Federal law has long prohibited treating employees differently because of their race. Employers should take to heart the Supreme Court’s recent declaration that “eliminating racial discrimination means eliminating all of it.” Congress will increasingly use its oversight powers—and private individuals and organizations will increasingly use the courts—to scrutinize the proliferation of race-based employment practices. To the extent that your firm continues to advise clients regarding DEI programs or operate one of your own, both you and those clients should take care to preserve relevant documents in anticipation of investigations and litigation.

Sincerely,

STATE CAPITOL WEEK IN REVIEW FROM SENATOR MATT STONE
July 14, 2023
LITTLE ROCK – The governor announced that the state would provide about $11 million to local school districts to help them pay the steeply rising costs of property insurance premiums.

In her announcement, the governor said premiums are going up for schools by an average of 130 percent, and the state aid would help them pay for about 30 percent of the increase.

The Legislative Council will consider the governor’s proposal, which was developed with input from lawmakers over the past several weeks.

An insurance plan purchased by the Arkansas School Boards Association covers 179 districts and a plan purchased by the state Insurance Department covers 78 districts, according to news reports.

Part of the dramatic increase in premiums is attributed to the cost of repairing damage caused by severe weather events such as tornadoes, flooding and sudden freezes. The increased insurance costs are not limited to Arkansas, but are being experienced nationwide. Not only schools but also homeowners are seeing increases in the cost of insuring property.

Education Week, a national news magazine that focuses on issues affecting schools, reported that in Davis, Oklahoma, the cost of liability insurance has increased more than threefold percent since the 2019-2020 school year, when the cost of insurance to the district was about $68 per student. It is now $167 per student and is going up to $290 per student.

According to the superintendent, the district pays $261,000 for property insurance. That amount would cover the pay of two teachers, or an entire grade level of math and science text books, he said.

The article in Education Week said that other factors, in addition to severe weather events, are causing rates to go up. New laws allowing more lawsuits over sexual abuse have contributed to rate increases.

Cybercrimes were cited also. The Little Rock School District was victimized last year by computer hackers who demanded and received $242,000 in extortion payments. They had stolen sensitive information such as Social Security numbers and other types of identification.

Shakeout within the insurance industry is also a factor. In markets where some companies have stopped writing policies, there is less competition and therefore less pressure to hold down rates.

Major companies have stopped issuing new homeowner policies in California because of the prevalence of wildfires. Spokesmen for the insurance companies attributed their decisions in part to inflation and the higher costs of re-building homes and structures.

New Drug Laws
Earlier this year the legislature approved Act 584, which creates a new felony of “death by delivery” for dealers who lace their illegal drugs with fentanyl, resulting in the death of users. The penalties range from 20 years to life.

Prosecutors in Searcy relied on Act 584 when they filed felony charges recently against a couple who allegedly sold drugs laced with fentanyl to two people who died from overdoses.

Last year 487 people in Arkansas died from a drug overdose, and so far this year 133 Arkansans have died from fatal doses of drugs. In the past few years fentanyl has become the leading cause of fatal overdoses.

So far this year, emergency medical personnel and first responders have administered almost 2,000 doses of Naloxone to Arkansans at risk of death from an overdose.

WESTERMAN AND WOMACK AMENDMENT INCLUDED IN THE NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT
WASHINGTON – Rep. Bruce Westerman (AR-04) and Rep. Steve Womack (AR-03) introduced an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act that will give the Department of Defense authority to provide grant funding to the Army-Navy Hospital in Hot Springs, Arkansas for on-site security and other site-planning activities.

“The Army Navy Hospital is rich with history, and it’s a shame that it’s become a victim to time, unauthorized access, and vandalism. For too long, there hasn’t been a clear-cut path for the future of this site that holds so much value for not just Hot Springs, but the entire state of Arkansas,” Rep. Westerman said. “I was grateful for the opportunity to work with my friend and colleague, Congressman Womack, to have this amendment included in the NDAA. This is the next step in a whole of government approach to properly secure the site and put it on a clear path to more beneficial use in the future.”

“The abandoned Army-Navy hospital is a liability in the Hot Springs area that must be addressed quickly and effectively.  The passage of the amendment today is a step toward this goal,” Rep. Womack said. “I’m proud to join my friend Mr. Westerman in his efforts to keep Arkansans safe.”

Background:
The site of the former Army-Navy Hospital in Hot Springs, Arkansas, which sits atop the city’s downtown on National Park Service land, is rapidly falling into disrepair. The current major buildings, built by the U.S. Government in the early 1930s, once served as the first general hospital in the country to serve Army and Navy patients. The site was deeded by the Army to the State of Arkansas and became a state-run rehabilitation center in 1960; later being converted into the Arkansas Career Training Institute. In 2019, the State ceased all operations at the site, and since then, the site has been vacant. As many Hot Springs residents know, the buildings and surrounding grounds have been targets of vandalism and unauthorized access in recent years, leading to serious safety and fire.
 

WESTERMAN APPLAUDS PASSAGE OF FY24 NDAA
WASHINGTON - Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the National Defense Authorization Act for FY 2024.

Congressman Bruce Westerman (AR-04) released the following statement:
“This year’s NDAA delivered on many Republican priorities, bolsters our national defense programs, and saves taxpayer dollars – all while remaining within the Fiscal Responsibility Act’s FY 24 defense discretionary spending level. While it took a lot of late nights and conversations across the aisle to get to this point, it’s a win for democracy. This NDAA includes key provisions that focus on capitalizing on innovation to increase lethality of the Joint Force, strengthening capabilities to counter the Chinese Communist Party’s increased military aggression, adequately equipping our warfighters to complete their missions, and ensuring vigorous oversight of taxpayer dollars at the Pentagon. This NDAA will ensure the U.S. remains a global defense leader and supports those in the Natural State who work in national defense industries. For that, I was proud to vote in favor.”

Background:
The National Defense Authorization Act authorizes the procurement for CH-53 and CH-47 helicopters whose  parts are manufactured in Magnolia and Hot Springs, bolsters the  modernization of our Nuclear Triad, adds additional F-35s, and facilitates manufacturing of guided multiple launch rocket systems (GMLRS), which all have a production footprint in Camden, AR. This year’s NDAA funnels key investments to the Fourth District and supports hundreds of jobs through investment in missile systems, aircraft, and explosive ordinances that all proudly have manufacturing or assembly done in Arkansas' Fourth District.

 

BOOZMAN PRESSES FOR COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH TO VETERAN SUICIDE PREVENTION ADVOCATES PASSAGE OF BIPARTISAN NOT JUST A NUMBER ACT
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) is urging the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee to advance legislation supporting a comprehensive approach to addressing the veteran suicide crisis.

In a hearing Wednesday, Boozman pressed Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) officials on the need for a more complete picture of the factors contributing to veteran suicide to help save more lives.

Boozman and Chairman Jon Tester (D-MT) introduced the Not Just a Number Act earlier this year that would require the VA to expand its data collection to examine the relationship between VA benefits and suicide outcomes as well as analyze which benefits have the greatest impact on preventing suicide.

“I believe that the issue is more complex than just viewing it from a clinical perspective. There are other root causes of suicide we need to be looking at such as food insecurity, lack of housing and financial strain,” Boozman said.

In testimony before the committee, Dr. Matthew Miller, Director of the Suicide Prevention Program in the Office of Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, agreed on the importance of understanding correlations between Veterans Benefit Association programs and clinical care that prevent veterans from taking their lives.
 

SENATE ADVANCES BOOZMAN-BACKED LEGISLATION REQUIRING WHISTLEBLOWER TRAINING FOR VA EMPLOYEES 
WASHINGTON–– The U.S. Senate Thursday passed legislation championed by U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) that would require the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to provide training to employees on reporting waste, fraud and abuse.

The VA OIG Training Act of 2023, bipartisan legislation Boozman introduced with Sen. Maggie Hassan (D-NH), would enhance cooperation between VA staff and the VA Office of Inspector General (VA OIG).

“An important step to fulfilling the promise we made to the men and women who wore our nation’s uniform is ensuring the VA is effective, transparent and accountable. Empowering VA employees with the tools to identify and report wrongdoing will help safeguard the benefits veterans earned. I urge the House of Representatives to pass this bill so we can strengthen the services veterans rely on,” said Boozman, a senior member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee.

Currently, the VA offers an optional, 45-minute whistleblower training to employees. However, many VA employees opt out of the training and often lack the skills to spot the early indicators of fraud and other potential crimes. This bill would make the one-time training mandatory for new employees of the department in order to reduce fraud and protect taxpayer dollars, in addition to allowing the VA OIG to contact VA employees via email at least twice per year without having to seek permission from the VA Secretary, as currently is the case.

BROOKSHIRE GROCERY CO. ANNOUNCES SALE OF PHARMACY BUSINESS WALGREENS
Conversion from BGC to Walgreens pharmacies will provide expanded pharmacy and healthcare services for patients in Texas, Louisiana and Arkansas
TYLER, TEXAS, [July 11, 2023] – Brookshire Grocery Co. (“BGC”) today announced an agreement whereby Walgreens will acquire BGC’s 120 pharmacies in Texas, Louisiana and Arkansas, which includes pharmacy customer prescription files and related pharmacy inventory. The vast majority of these locations are being converted to Walgreens pharmacies that will operate inside of BGC’s stores.

“We are excited to take this next step with Walgreens to strengthen our pharmacies and further our commitment to our employee-partners and customers that make up our BGC family,” said Brad Brookshire, Chairman and CEO of Brookshire Grocery Co. “The pharmacy industry has become increasingly complex over the past few years, and it was important to us to find a business leader that has the capabilities to focus on providing exceptional pharmacy services and value to our customers.”

Eligible BGC pharmacy employees are being offered employment opportunities with Walgreens. In addition, pharmacy customers do not need to not take any action for their prescriptions to be transferred over. Customers’ prescriptions will transfer to Walgreens automatically. Customers will receive notification in the mail along with details about their prescriptions.

“Walgreens has a long history of serving communities throughout the U.S., and we look forward to providing BGC’s customers with greater access to a wide range of trusted pharmacy and healthcare services,” said Brad Ulrich, Vice President of Pharmacy and Retail Operations for Walgreens. “Our pharmacists are playing a critical role in healthcare today, and we truly value the importance of the pharmacist-patient relationship. As part of our commitment to ensuring a seamless transition, we’re excited to also be providing employment opportunities for BGC’s existing pharmacy staff.”

As part of the agreement, a select few pharmacy locations will close. Those patient files will transfer to either another in-store pharmacy at BGC’s or nearby Walgreens retail pharmacy. BGC and Walgreens are committed to finding employment opportunities for substantially all eligible pharmacy employee-partners in other BGC or Walgreens locations. Customers of these locations will be notified, and prescription files will transfer automatically in the coming weeks to nearby Walgreens or BGC in-store pharmacy locations. 

The pharmacies in BGC’s Reasor’s stores in Oklahoma are not included in this transaction and will remain under BGC brand and ownership. BGC will continue to operate and invest in its retail grocery business in its more than 205 stores located across Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas and Oklahoma. Together with its dedicated employee-partners, BGC remains focused on its vision of being the premier regional grocery retailer in the markets it serves.

“My grandfather laid the foundation for our core values in 1928 which continue to be supported by our team providing excellent service, showing integrity and doing our best every day. With this next step, we will remain focused on creating and delivering exceptional value to our customers,” added Brookshire.

Sidley Austin, LLP acted as lead legal advisor for Walgreens, along with Weil, Gotshal & Manges, LLP.  The Food Partners served as strategic and financial adviser and Greensfelder, Hemker & Gale, P.C. and Kilpatrick Townsend, and Haynes and Boone served as legal counsel to BGC.

DELTA DENTAL OF ARKANSAS INTRODUCES VIRTUAL DENTIST VISITS
Partnership with TeleDentistry.com Provides Safe 24/7 Access to Dental Consults
LITTLE ROCK, ARK—Dental emergencies can happen anytime, anywhere—on vacation, during a job interview or at a wedding. That’s why Delta Dental of Arkansas has launched a new partnership with TeleDentistry.com to offer its members 24/7 access to virtual dental visits at https://teledentistry.com/delta-dental-arkansas.

The service is offered as a covered insurance benefit to most members. They can access safe and immediate high-quality dental consultations with their smartphone, tablet or computer with audio/visual capabilities.

Virtual visits don’t replace routine preventive care checkups with a dentist but deliver expert guidance, prescriptions and referrals to a Delta Dental network dentist if and when needed.

“TeleDentistry.com fills an urgent need for dental care for oral health emergencies that happen after hours or away from home or for people who don’t have an established dentist,” said Thomas Redd, DDS, VP of Professional Relations at Delta Dental of Arkansas. “Virtual visits with a dental professional through TeleDentistry.com can give our members peace of mind and a low-cost alternative to expensive trips to the emergency room.” 

Through TeleDentristry.com, Delta Dental network dentists can provide virtual consultations and write prescriptions when appropriate. They can also offer a referral to a Delta Dental network dentist if additional treatment is needed.

TeleDentistry.com services are a covered insurance benefit for most Delta Dental of Arkansas members. Members should contact Delta Dental of Arkansas to verify coverage through their group plan. A Virtual Visit is counted as a problem-focused, limited examination and counts as a regular preventive oral exam.

Members can use Virtual Visits provided through TeleDentistry.com for dental issues that arise after hours, on weekends, holidays or out-of-town trips or when they don’t have an established dentist. 

“TeleDentistry.com is dedicated to improving access to dental care,” said Dr. Vilas Sastry, CEO of TeleDentistry.com. “We are proud to partner with Delta Dental of Arkansas to help support their members with a virtual dentist anytime, anywhere.”

More information about Virtual Visits through TeleDentistry.com may be found at https://teledentistry.com/delta-dental-arkansas.
 

SECRETARY OF STATE THURSTON ELECTED TO NASS EXECUTIVE BOARD
Will Serve as Member-at-Large Through July 2024
WASHINGTON, D.C.) – Arkansas Secretary of State John Thurston was sworn in Wednesday, July 12th to the Executive Board of the National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS). He will serve in the position of Member-at-Large (ACR Section).

The Administrative Codes & Registers (ACR) Section of NASS comprises officials involved in the state-level administrative rules process. In Arkansas, state agencies, boards and commissions are required to file rules and regulations with the Secretary of State, who maintains a database of those documents. 

Thurston said, "It is an honor to continue to represent Arkansas as Secretary of State and to join with my counterparts from across the country to discuss and search out regulatory and technological opportunities that best serve our constituents.."

In addition to this responsibility, Thurston has served NASS as co-chair of the Business Services Committee and as a member of the Elections, Cybersecurity, and International Relations Committees. He will serve on the Executive Board until the conclusion of the NASS 2024 Summer Conference.

 

 

WESTERMAN DENOUNCES DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS SECRETARY'S POORLY WRITTEN LETTER
WASHINGTON - Congressman Bruce Westerman (AR-04) denounced the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Secretary Denis McDonough's poorly written interim response to a previous inquiry. In a letter, Westerman wrote:

“Thank you for your poorly written, meaningless interim response to my inquiry. It’s obvious from your lack of sentence structure, punctuation, and overall lack of attention to detail that this issue is a very low priority to you and the VA.

“Please be assured that my communications to the Appropriations Committee and my colleagues in the House will be much more organized and better articulated when I lobby them to cut funding to your political staff and others who are advocating and implementing these political issues in what should be an apolitical agency.”

Background:

On June 6th, Congressman Westerman cosigned a letter to VA Secretary McDonough expressing concern for the display of Pride flags at VA facilities.

On July 3rd, the VA sent this interim response, containing clear lack of proof-reading.
 

COTTON BILL TO PROTECT MAINSTREET INVESTORS FROM ESG RISK
Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) today introduced the Ensuring Sound Guidance (ESG) Act, legislation that will protect Americans’ savings and retirement accounts from politically-motivated asset managers. This legislation would require investment advisors and retirement plan sponsors to consider principally financial factors such as maximizing returns and minimizing risk unless a client gives them explicit permission to consider non-pecuniary factors, such as a company’s use of fossil fuels.

The legislation will maintain investor choice while ensuring that focusing on the best investment outcome is the default practice for funds managing Americans’ investment and retirement savings.

Senators Mike Braun (R-Indiana), Ted Budd (R-North Carolina), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), James Risch (R-Idaho), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tennessee), and Rick Scott (R-Florida) are co-sponsors of the legislation. Congressman Andy Barr (Kentucky-06) introduced companion legislation in the House in June.

“Investment funds like Blackrock that millions of Americans’ trust with their hard-earned savings should prioritize investments that result in the highest returns—not fund ESG scams. My bill will make sure investment fund managers are making the best financial decisions on behalf of their clients,” said Senator Cotton.

“Asset managers should be in the business of maximizing returns for investors, not pushing their own political agenda at the expense of everyday Americans. Our proposed legislation safeguards the savings efforts of hardworking Americans. This critical legislation not only guarantees that advisers make prudent investment choices based on financial factors, but also empowers savers to decide how their money is invested, contrary to the Department of Labor's (DOL) finalized rule. We must take significant action to protect retail investors and retirees from the cancer within our capital markets that is ESG, which prioritizes higher-fee, less diversified and lower return investments,” said Congressman Barr.

MEMORIAL TRIBUTE TO THE HONORABLE CHARLIE DANIELS CEREMONY AT STATE CAPITOL ON FRIDAY, JULY 14TH AT 10:00 A.M.
Friends, Former Staff, Colleagues and Public Welcome to Attend
LITTLE ROCK, ARK.) – Arkansas Secretary of State John Thurston will host a memorial tribute to The Honorable Charlie Daniels at the Arkansas State Capitol on Friday, July 14th at 10:00 a.m. in the Capitol's second floor rotunda. 

Having been elected as Secretary of State, Commissioner of State Lands, and Auditor of State, Daniels was one of the longest-serving state government officials in Arkansas history. He was also a veteran of the United States Air Force.

Secretary Thurston said, "It is my honor to pay tribute to Charlie and to open the Capitol as a place for his friends and family to mourn his passing and celebrate his life. He served Arkansas with distinction and will be long remembered."

Friends, former staff, colleagues and the public are welcome to attend the ceremony. 

FORREST CITY MAN GUILTY, SENTENCED TO LIFE IN I-40 DEATH
July 11, 2023
The Forrest City man who shot and killed a 21-year-old passenger of a car on Interstate 40 nearly two years ago will spend the rest of his life in prison.

Justin Mays, 26, was found guilty on June 28th of capital murder, two counts of terroristic acts, and two counts of first-degree battery. Mays was sentenced to a life term plus 10 years in Arkansas Department of Corrections custody.

In the early morning hours of August 21, 2021, Mays opened fire on a vehicle traveling on I-40 near Morgan, striking Kindylen Roberts, of Marion. Roberts later died at a local hospital, and two others were injured.

Arkansas State Police apprehended Mays the same day and led the investigation.

“This case is a successful collaboration made possible by solid police work, a meticulous investigation and careful analysis of evidence,” said ASP Colonel Mike Hagar, who also serves as Arkansas Public Safety Secretary and was Troop A Commander in August 2021. “This case was a team effort that really highlights the value of the Department of Public Safety and the importance of strong relationships with our prosecutorial partners.”

ASP’s Criminal Investigation Division spent an untold number of hours on the case, scouring over phone records, consulting with prosecutors, working with the Arkansas State Crime Lab, and keeping the Roberts family apprised to ensure the case would find a successful conclusion. 

“We have made it a priority to strengthen our communication and cooperation with law enforcement,” said Sixth Judicial District Prosecuting Attorney Will Jones. “The safety of our citizens depends on this relationship. This case is a great example of the value of that partnership, and the outcome was the result of hard work on the part of the Arkansas State Police and the Sixth Judicial District Prosecuting Attorney’s Office.”

 

WINNERS ANNOUNCED FOR THE 2023 COMPUTER SCIENCE STUDENTS OF DISTINCTION AWARDS
Sixty-one students from 13 Arkansas high schools were named the 2023 Computer Science Students of Distinction by the Arkansas Academy of Computing (AAoC). Each has been recognized by their school and will be added to the over 137 awardees from previous years on the Academy’s website.

The Computer Science Students of Distinction Award (CSSoD) program was created in 2019 by the Arkansas Department of Education’s Division of Elementary and Secondary Education to recognize high school juniors and seniors for their academic achievements in computer education. The Arkansas Academy of Computing partnered with the Department, CSforAR, IMPAC, the Arkansas Computer Science Teacher Association, the Arkansas STEM Coalition, and the Arkansas Community Foundation to promote the program.

The application process is open to students currently enrolled in the 11th and 12th grades in an Arkansas public, private, or home school. The criteria used to select the recipients are accomplishments in:
• Computer Related Academics
• Competitive Achievements
• Personal Growth
• Service to others

The students recognized represent the following high schools (total recipients are noted):
• Arkansas School for Mathematics, Sciences, and the Arts – 20
• Fort Smith Southside - 11
• Bentonville - 10
• Bentonville West - 4
• Haas Hall Academy - Rodgers – 4
• Stuttgart - 4
• Fayetteville - 2
• Conway - 1
• El Dorado - 1
• eSTEM - 1
• Hot Springs World Class High School - 1
• Lake Hamilton - 1
• Lavaca - 1

To see a list of the 2023 Computer Science Students of Distinction Award Winners visit: https://www.araoc.org/2023-CSSoD-Winners

“The Arkansas Academy of Computing proudly recognizes this year’s honorees who demonstrated their willingness to seek out challenges, tackle complex problems and persevere. These characteristics bode well for the organizations they will impact,” said David Douglas, President of the AAoC. “Further, the Academy thanks the outstanding teachers who mentored, inspired, and encouraged this year’s winners.”

“Our academy was founded to advocate for the positive impact that computing and information technology education can have on our state, our communities, and the people of Arkansas,” said Eugene Jones, Past President of AAoC. “The Computer Science of Distinction Award is an inspiring way to do that at the beginning of this ‘pipeline’ of innovation and vocational skills development. These students will lead us into the next wave of our rapidly changing world. We are especially grateful that so many other great partners also see this program as a powerful and positive opportunity for high school students in Arkansas.”

 

SAAC WELCOMES NEW ART EXHIBIT FROM DINAH VAN HOOK
The South Arkansas Arts Center is pleased to announce a wonderful new exhibit from well-known El Dorado artist, Dinah Van Hook, entitled “Southern Impressions and Portraits”.  This exhibit, sponsored by Drew and Suzy Sheppard, will hang in the Price and Merkle Galleries July 10-30, 2023.  An artist’s reception is scheduled for Thursday, July 13th, 5:30-7:00pm. 

Dinah Van Hook began studying art and painting at an early age.  At age eleven, she was enrolled in studio classes under her childhood mentor, Marjorie Chamberlain.  Under Chamberlain’s guidance, Dinah developed a lifelong passion for art.  Art Studies continued at undergraduate school at Southern Arkansas University, UCLA, University of Arkansas and finally Louisiana Tech University where she obtained a Master’s in Art Education.  After college, Dinah began a long teaching career beginning with El Dorado and Norphlet Public Schools and culminating at South Ark College where she taught for 32 years. During her long teaching career, she continued to study with many nationally known artists such as Everett Raymond Kinstler, Daniel Greene, Doug Walton, Robert E. Wood and Charles Reid.

After retiring in 2017, Dinah has had much more time to paint and has enjoyed the freedom to paint whatever she wants.  She has always been known as a portrait and figure painter, but after retirement she has worked more on landscape and still life.  She has endeavored to move away from realism and work more expressively like the early impressionist painters.  Her main subjects are from southern culture, whether people, places or still life.   Currently she is working on a series focusing on landscape and people along the Quachita River. 

Professional memberships include Oil Painters of America, American Impressionist Society and Mid-Southern Watercolor Society (signature member).

For more information on this exhibit, please call the SAAC office at 870-862-5474 or visit the website at www.saac-arts.org. Gallery viewing hours are Monday- Friday 9:00-5:00pm. SAAC is located at 110 East Fifth Street, El Dorado, Arkansas.

ARKANSAS LAW ENFORCEMENT URGE DRIVERS TO SLOW DOWN
July 10, 2023
This summer, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is teaming up with Arkansas law enforcement to keep drivers and passengers safe by raising awareness about the dangers of speeding and urging drivers to obey speed limits. From July 17 through July 31, law enforcement officers will be on higher alert for speeding vehicles while participating in the Speeding Slows You Down campaign. If you’re pulled over for speeding, you can expect to be issued a ticket for breaking the law.

Not only is speeding illegal, it’s deadly. In 2020, speeding killed 11,258 people, accounting for more than one-quarter of all traffic fatalities. Tragically, there was a dramatic increase (17%) in speeding-related fatalities from 2019-2020, with a projected 5% increase from 2020-2021. NHTSA and Arkansas law enforcement officers remind drivers that, no matter how experienced you are as a driver, ultimately, Speeding Slows You Down.

Much like impaired driving, speeding is a selfish choice that can have deadly consequences for the driver, vehicle passenger, and pedestrians. Speeding reduces a driver’s ability to steer safely around another vehicle, a hazardous object, or an unexpected curve. Even the safest cars with the newest technologies are limited in reducing the odds of a crash and the injuries or death that may result.
“Speed limit signs are not suggestions. They are the law,” said Arkansas Public Safety Secretary Colonel Mike Hagar. “They are posted for the safety of the driver and others on the road. If you’re killed in a crash, or if you kill someone else, there’s no second chance. Speeding just isn’t worth the risk.”

According to NHTSA, local roads are more dangerous than highways for speeders: In 2020, 87% of all speeding-related traffic fatalities on American roads occurred on non-interstate roadways.

Additionally, young drivers and motorcyclists are especially susceptible to high speeds, and they represent the largest demographic involved in speeding-related crashes. In 2020, 27% of males ages 18-44 and 17% of female drivers ages 18-34 involved in fatal crashes were speeding.
Alcohol and weather also increase the likelihood of a crash while speeding. In 2020, 37% of the drivers involved in fatal crashes were speeding and had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher, compared to 17% of non-speeding drivers. The chances of a crash on wet roads also increases drastically when a vehicle is speeding. 

Whether it’s the type of roadway, weather conditions, age of the driver, or impairment, speeding is dangerous for everyone involved. Don’t risk it, obey the posted speed limits and avoid the consequences. Remember, Speeding Slows You Down.

For more information, please visit www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/speeding or call the Arkansas Highway Safety Office at (501) 618-8136. For more on Arkansas’ ongoing Toward Zero Deaths campaign to eliminate preventable traffic fatalities, visit www.TZDArkansas.org

LIHEAP APPLICATION OPENS FOR SUMMER UTILITIES BILL HELP
Most eligible Energy Arkansas customers can apply online for assistance
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Entergy Arkansas customers who need help paying their summer utility bills can apply now for
up to $475 through the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). The program’s application period runs today through Sept. 30, officials said, or until funds are expended.

LIHEAP is funded through several federal programs and is designed to lower the energy cost burden by paying benefits for home energy bills for low-income households, who pay a higher proportion of household income for home energy costs. Bill assistance is available for all utilities, with an online application available for most Entergy Arkansas customers, based on which community action agency serves them. Applications can also be made in person at local community-based organizations.

In Arkansas, the Arkansas Department of Energy & Environment manages the program, but applications for assistance must be made through a community-based organization. Eligibility is determined by household size and income. For example, a single individual with a maximum monthly countable income of $1,859 and a family of four with $3,574 would both be eligible.

The program is offered in all 75 counties in the state through community-based organizations, which can be found online at https://www.adeq.state.ar.us/energy/assistance/caad.aspx, along with a complete list of eligibility and required documentation to complete the application.

Once approved for LIHEAP funding, Entergy Arkansas allows agencies the opportunity to “pledge” on an account to prevent disconnection. LIHEAP funds can also be used to reconnect a customer account.

For additional ways to help with managing your Entergy Arkansas bill, such as Level Billing or Pick A Date, visit https://www.entergy-arkansas.com/residential/, where energy efficiency tips can also be found.
 

STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION TAKES EMERGENCY ACTION TO SAVE MARVELL-ELAINE SCHOOL DISTRICT
LITTLE ROCK – Due to a politically motivated lawsuit that is delaying enactment of the LEARNS Act, the State Board of Education had to take emergency action to save the Marvell-Elaine School District or risk further harming students and putting them behind their peers in the state.

The board voted to remove the district’s superintendent and limited authority board. As a result of the board’s actions, this allows Arkansas Department of Education Secretary Jacob Oliva to name a new superintendent and proceed with planning for an August 1 LEARNS enactment to keep the district open.
 
“At the April board meeting in Marvell, community members overwhelmingly expressed their desire for the district to remain open,” Oliva said. “It’s unfortunate that a frivolous, politically motivated lawsuit is interfering with the department’s efforts to carry out the wishes of the school and local community. Every day that passes that delays enactment, student learning is in jeopardy.”
 
At its meeting in April, the State Board rescinded its previous decision in November to consolidate the district into neighboring districts. The board instead voted to place the district under state authority, retain the superintendent through the 2022-2023 school year, and keep a limited authority board. The State Board also directed the district to enter a transformation contract with a third party to run the day-to-day operations of the district this fall. 
 
The State Board considered multiple options during its meeting including reversing its decision in April and moving forward with consolidation of the district. In the interest of what is best for the community and students, the board voted to keep the district open. The secretary, acting in lieu of the board, will now name a superintendent to run the daily operations of the district.

CITY OF CAMDEN BOARD OF ALDERMEN TO MEET
The City of Camden Board of Aldermen will have their regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, July 11, 2023, at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers of the Municipal Building.

The agenda is as follows:
A. CALL TO ORDER
B. INVOCATION – Minister Donald Juniel, Associate Minister – Zion Hill Baptist Church, 117 Maul Road, Camden, Arkansas 71701
C. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
D. ROLL CALL
E. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1. Minutes Regular Meeting June 13, 2023
2. Minutes Special Called Meeting June 29, 2023
F.    ACCEPTANCE OF FINANCIAL REPORT
1.  Financial Report for June 2023
G. AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION
H. MAYOR’S REPORT
I.  OLD BUSINESS
J.  NEW BUSINESS
1. Ordinance No. 03-23, an ordinance permitting an Official of the Camden Water and Sewer Commission to be interested in contracts with the City of Camden, Arkansas.
2. Ordinance No. 04-23, an ordinance repealing Camden Code Section 2-54 regarding advertisement of bids for  public improvements; and for other purposes.
3. Ordinance No. 05-23, an ordinance amending Article II of the Camden Code; Establishing Rates and   Procedures for Collection of Garbage for Commercial Customers; and for other purposes.
4.  Resolution No. 43-23, a resolution amending the Annual Operating Budget for 2023; for Police Department Radio Equipment and for other purposes.
5. Resolution No. 44-23, a resolution amending the Annual Operating Budget for 2023; appropriating funds for overtime in the Public Works department; and for other purposes.
6.  Resolution No. 45-23, a resolution amending the Annual Operating Budget for 2023; ``for Airport maintenance; and for other purposes.
7.  Resolution No. 46-23, a resolution authorizing the mayor to apply for a Parks and Tourism Grant; and forother purposes.
8.  Resolution No. 47-23, a resolution waiving the nepotism prohibition of the Personnel Policies and Procedural Manual.
K.  OTHER BUSINESS
L.  ADJOURNMENT

ASP INVESTIGATES SHOOTING FOR PINE BLUFF POLICE DEPARTMENT
July 6, 2023
At about 10 p.m. on Wednesday, July 5, 2023, the Pine Bluff Police Department asked Arkansas State Police to investigate a shooting that occurred on Brentwood Drive because a parttime PBPD employee was involved in the incident, which has been described as a domestic disturbance.

Homeowner Whitney Bradley, 37, called 911 after reportedly firing her service weapon at Brandon Stringfellow, 40, who was visiting her home. Stringfellow was taken by ambulance to Jefferson Regional Medical Center for medical treatment.  He is reported to be in stable condition.

Bradley, who is a parttime PBPD patrol officer, was placed on administrative leave with pay until the investigation is concluded, which is standard protocol.
 

STATE CAPITOL WEEK IN REVIEW FROM SENATOR MATT STONE
July 7, 2023
LITTLE ROCK – Arkansas celebrated Independence Day this year the same way it always does, by closing out the state fiscal year with a balanced budget and beginning a new fiscal year with a balanced budget in place.

The state fiscal year ends on June 30 and begins on July 1, so technically July 4 is not the first day of the new fiscal year. However, it usually takes a day or two for budget officials to complete their final tally of the state’s fiscal performance during the past year.

Fiscal Year 2023, which just ended, was one of the best in Arkansas history. The state closed out the fiscal year with a budget surplus of $1.161 billion.

The grand total of general revenue collections was $8.85 billion, although some of that was returned to taxpayers as refunds and credits, or used to settle claims.

Some categories within the budget performed better than others, but overall the state saw revenue grow by 0.9 percent over the previous year.

The size of the surplus is proof that the legislature budgets very conservatively. Since 2015, in every regular session the legislature has reduced taxes, therefore the increase in state revenue from one year to the next cannot be attributed to higher tax rates. Instead, it is due to the general strength of the Arkansas economy.

The secretary of the Department of Finance and Administration said that the Arkansas economy outperformed expectations, and the state’s strong economy resulted in the surplus.

Revenue from the state sales tax is a measure of how much consumers are buying. In Fiscal Year 2023 the total was $3.4 billion. That was 8.4 percent greater than the previous year.

Individual income taxes were down by 6.1 percent, largely due to tax cuts enacted by the legislature.

Generally, fluctuations in revenue from the income tax are a gauge of employment trends. Income taxes are deducted from their paychecks, so they indicate how many people are working and how well they’re being paid,

State budget officials expected the drop in revenue caused by the income tax cuts. But even after they lowered their estimate of revenue in the official forecast, actual collections continued to be greater than predicted. For example, individual income tax revenue in fiscal 2023 was 1.1 percent above forecast.

Another reason for the surplus was that the legislature performed its duty to hold down spending levels for state agencies, based on the economic forecast.

Arkansas will be able to celebrate next July 4 because no matter what happens over the course of the current fiscal year, spending will fall in line with revenue forecasts. That’s because of the Arkansas balanced budget law known as the Revenue Stabilization Act.

The act mandates that spending decisions by state government are similar to financial decisions made by families over the kitchen table.

Basically, if revenue slows down, so does spending. If the legislature’s conservative budgeting produces yet another large surplus, there will be more money for reserve funds and emergencies. Also, there will be further consideration of possible tax cuts.

 

COTTON: TARGET’S RACE-BASED PROGRAMS ARE DISCRIMINATORY
Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) today sent a letter to Target CEO and Chair Brian Cornell about the company’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) program. Senator Cotton noted that the Supreme Court’s recent decision to strike down affirmative action in higher education also applies to private employers, and Target’s DEI program is discriminatory.

In part, Senator Cotton wrote:

“In September 2020, Target publicly pledged to impose a racial quota for hiring decisions, announcing that it would increase the number of black employees by 20%. This is not the only racially discriminatory plan in Target’s DEI initiatives; Target also promised to direct more than $2 billion to businesses selected based on the skin color of the owners.”

Full text of the letter may be found below.

July 7, 2023

Brian C. Cornell
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
Target Corporation
1000 Nicollet Mall
Minneapolis, MN 55403

Dear Mr. Cornell,
I write regarding Target’s so-called “Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion” (DEI) program. Last week, the Supreme Court struck down affirmative action programs in higher education, holding that those programs impermissibly discriminated between college applicants based on race. Though that case focused on colleges, the same principles and indeed the plain text of federal law also cover private employers. Target’s DEI program applies the same race-based criteria to job offers, promotions, and business partnerships, and is similarly prohibited under federal civil rights laws.

In September 2020, Target publicly pledged to impose a racial quota for hiring decisions, announcing that it would increase the number of black employees by 20%. This is not the only racially discriminatory plan in Target’s DEI initiatives; Target also promised to direct more than $2 billion to businesses selected based on the skin color of the owners.

The Supreme Court was clear in its recent opinion that “eliminating racial discrimination means eliminating all of it.” As Justice Gorsuch, joined by Justice Thomas, explained in a concurring opinion, private employers (including not just universities, but also companies like Target) are also prohibited from treating employees or job applicants differently based on race.

I urge you to immediately end all of Target’s race-based employment and partnership practices. If you fail to do so, in the wake of the Supreme Court’s recent decision you should expect significant and likely costly litigation.

Tom Cotton
United States Senator

STATE CAPITOL EXHIBIT TO CELEBRATE 100 YEARS OF ARKANSAS STATE PARKS
LITTLE ROCK, ARK.) – In partnership with the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism, Arkansas Secretary of State John Thurston would like to welcome the public to the State Capitol to view the newest exhibit celebrating 100 Years of Arkansas State Parks.

Established in 1923, the state park system now includes 52 parks and over 55,000 acres of land for the public to enjoy.

"As an avid outdoorsman, I hope this exhibit will encourage more people to get out and enjoy what a treasure we have in our state parks," said Thurston. "It is truly a gift to live in The Natural State and enjoy it's beauty."

Whether you enjoy hiking, boating, fishing, picnicking, bird watching, cycling, camping, visiting historic sites, or beautiful mountain views, Arkansas State Parks offer all of that and more. No matter where you live in Arkansas, you can enjoy a state park within an hour's drive.

The Arkansas State Parks Centennial Exhibit will be on display in the State Capitol's first floor galleries until August 9th.

For more information about state park centennial events, visit www.ArkansasStateParks.com/centennial.
 

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE FOOD & NUTRITION SERVICE ADMINISTRATOR TO VISIT ARKANSAS
Little Rock, Arkansas – The Arkansas Hunger Relief Alliance is pleased to host USDA-FNS Administrator Cindy Long on Thursday, July 13.  Administrator Long's visit to Arkansas aims to show support for the USDA-FNS Summer Food Service Program, which was enhanced by the passage of the Consolidated Appropriations Act (also referred to as the omnibus spending bill). During her visit, she will observe a newly authorized rural non-congregate summer meal site at Searcy School District and SNAP Employment & Training (SNAP E&T) programs at Our House in Little Rock.

“We are honored to host Administrator Long. We love to share success stories when it comes to improving children’s access to healthy foods,” said Alliance CEO Kathy Webb. “We owe special thanks to Sen. Boozman for championing changes that have expanded access to summer meals. And we appreciate his continued support for a Farm Bill with strong programs for Arkansas families and farmers.”

Administrator Long begins the day with a visit at 10:30 a.m. to Searcy Middle School’s summer meal site. By taking advantage of the newly approved rural, non-congregate summer meal service provisions included in the FY23 Consolidated Appropriations Act passed by Congress in December 29, 2022, Searcy School District, like many other districts in rural Arkansas, can now offer summer meals in innovative ways to more students, whether they are on-site at school or not.  Non-congregate meal service allows for nutritious meals to be delivered to children who are not able to participate in on-site, “congregate” programs because of lack of access and/or transportation. In Searcy, the Southwest Middle School provides a week’s worth of meals (five breakfasts and five lunches) for pick up through the end of July.  The Searcy School District is inviting local dignitaries and community leaders to attend the visiting session. The Alliance is pleased to announce Searcy School District recently received a 2023 No Kid Hungry Summer Nutrition Program grant from our national No Kid Hungry partner, Share Our Strength, to support their summer meal service.

Administrator Long will visit Our House in Little Rock at 3 p.m. to observe their meal service and implementation of SNAP E&T. This program helps SNAP participants gain skills and find work that moves them forward to self-sufficiency. Each state is required to operate a SNAP E&T program and receives federal funding annually to operate and administer the program. These programs also help to reduce barriers to work by providing support services – such as transportation and childcare – as participants prepare for and obtain employment.

During her visit, Administrator Long will discuss the USDA-FNS’s newest nutrition program, Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT), which provides families whose children are eligible for free school meals with grocery benefits on a debit-type card during the summer months. Summer EBT, made permanent under the newly passed Consolidated Appropriations Act, has been proven to decrease food insecurity among children and will help close the summer hunger gap.

Members of the media are welcome to attend as Administrator Long visits Searcy School District and Our House in Little Rock on Thursday, July 13. For media inquiries or to RSVP, please contact Jessica Crenshaw, jcrenshaw@arhungerallianc.org or 501-240-4715.

 

FAYETTEVILLE TEEN SERVES AS U.S. SENATE PAGE
WASHINGTON–– Haas Hall Academy student Joshua Ofodile spent part of his summer navigating the halls of the U.S. Capitol serving as a Senate Page.

“It was my honor and privilege to play a role in the processes of the greatest deliberative body in the world. Witnessing senators make speeches, debates, and votes with nationwide implications was an eye-opening and life-changing experience,” Ofodile said.

Ofodile served as one of 48 Senate Pages who prepared the Senate chamber for the day’s business by distributing documents to the senators’ desks, assisting in the cloakrooms, supporting chamber staff; and, when Congress is in session, sitting near the dais waiting to help senators.

The 17-year-old rising senior in Fayetteville earned his appointment to the position from S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR).

“This was a unique opportunity for Joshua to engage in the legislative process. I appreciate all the help he provided the Senate while serving as a Page. I’m certain it is an experience he will always remember. Arkansans can be proud of him representing our state in this prestigious program,” Boozman said.

Ofodile is an accomplished high school student. He placed first in the Arkansas Economics Challenge and served as head delegate at Arkansas Model Arab League. He was also selected as a University of Notre Dame 2023 Leadership Seminars Program participant. He has a passion for serving his community and hopes to pursue a career in public service.

Joshua is the son of Uche Ofodile. 

The Senate Page program started in 1829 when Senator Daniel Webster appointed the first Senate Page. Today, the program is a unique, highly selective opportunity for high school juniors with a strong academic standing to learn firsthand about the institution often referred to as “the world’s greatest deliberative body.”

COTTON TO SECRET SERVICE: RELEASE INFORMATION ABOUT COCAINE FOUND IN WHITE HOUSE
Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) today sent a letter to Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle requesting that she release information about reports of a Secret Service officer finding cocaine in the West Wing of the White House.

Senator Cotton also requested that Director Cheatle provide the Secret Service’s procedures to keep the White House complex secure.

Text of the letter may be found below.

July 5, 2023
Kimberly A. Cheatle
Director
United States Secret Service
950 H St NW #7800
Washington, DC 20223

Dear Director Cheatle,

I write regarding the Secret Service’s recent discovery of white powder, reportedly confirmed to be cocaine, inside the White House. According to public reports, the Secret Service has not yet confirmed where in the West Wing the cocaine was found. I urge you to release that information quickly, as the American people deserve to know whether illicit drugs were found in an area where confidential information is exchanged.

If the White House complex is not secure, Congress needs to know the details, as well as your plan to correct any security flaws. Please answer the following questions as soon as practicable, but in any event no later than 5:00PM on Friday, July 14. Further, please contact my staff to arrange a briefing on this matter, as well as the provision of any answers that are classified or law enforcement sensitive.

Who has access to the White House complex without passing through any security screening? Please provide a complete list of all such individuals.

Who has access to the White House complex while subject to lesser security screening requirements than the most complete screening required of individuals accessing the West Wing? Please provide a complete list of all such individuals, along with a description of the lesser screening requirements and the reasons such individuals are not subject to complete screening.

The Secret Service’s Annual Report for FY2022 notes that the Secret Service’s Personnel Screening K-9 program screens approximately 10 million “visitors to the exterior of The White House each year.” How many visitors to the interior of the White House are screened by the Secret Service’s K-9s each year? Please provide a description of the circumstances under which the Secret Service chooses not to use K-9 screening for West Wing visitors.

In the past five years, how often has the Secret Service encountered illegal drugs at the White House complex? How often were these drugs detected during security screenings, and how often were these drugs encountered inside secure areas?

Section 3056A of Title 18, U.S. Code, provides members of the United States Secret Service Uniformed Division with the authority to “make arrests without warrant for any offense against the United States committed in their presence, or for any felony cognizable under the laws of the United States if they have reasonable grounds to believe that the person to be arrested has committed or is committing such felony.” Illegally possessing cocaine is a crime under federal law. If the Secret Service discovers the identity of the individual who brought illicit cocaine into the White House complex, will they make an arrest under this provision?

How often does the Secret Service audit its security procedures for the White House complex and adjust those procedures to correct potential flaws? Please provide details regarding the most recent complete audit, including whether it was conducted by the Secret Service or another entity.

Volunteer fire departments interested in participating in the program must submit an application to the RFP. The applications are scored according to specific criteria including fire district population, the size of the response area, wildfire equipment response needs, and other factors. The next application period is expected to begin in August 2023.

Fire departments should receive an application by mail, or they can be found at agriculture.arkansas.gov/ forestry/rural-fire-protection-program/ when the application period opens. For more information, fire departments should contact Kathryn Mahan-Hooten, RFP administrator, at kathryn.mahan@agriculture. arkansas.gov or (501) 679-3183.

The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies and programs for Arkansas agriculture, forestry, and natural resources to keep its farmers and ranchers competitive in national and international markets while conserving natural resources and ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation. Visit agriculture.arkansas.gov/. The Arkansas Department of Agriculture offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

 

STATE CAPITOL WEEK IN REVIEW FROM SENATOR MATT STONE
June 30, 2023
LITTLE ROCK – Arkansas officials announced that the state is about to receive more than a billion dollars in federal funding for expanding broadband access throughout the state.

Before the end of the year, the state Broadband Office will submit a five-year plan with details of how we intend to spend the funds.

The Broadband Office is within the state Commerce Department, whose secretary called the federal grant “an economic game changer.”

In announcing the award of $1.024 billion, he reiterated what educators, economic development recruiters and public health officials in Arkansas have been saying: access to high speed Internet is not a luxury but a necessity for communities to prosper.

The governor praised the award, calling it “transformational.” It will allow Arkansas to close the digital divide between rural and urban areas, she said. It will level the playing field between isolated and urban areas, and unlock the economic potential for businesses, schools and ordinary people who live without Internet access, she said.

Officials in the Broadband Office said that a priority would be addressing the lack of Internet access in about 215,000 households and businesses across the state.

Also, some of the funding will pay for improvements at vital community centers, such as hospitals, libraries and schools. Some funding will be used to enhance training in digital skills among the workforce.

Expenditures from the broadband grant will go through the legislature’s review and appropriation process, according to the state Commerce Department’s announcement.

Under current Broadband Office guidelines and its Rural Connect Grant Program, the standard for high speed Internet is universal access with download speeds of 100 megabits per second and upload speeds of 20 Mbps.

Arkansas is one of 19 states that is due to get more than $1 billion for broadband access. Texas will receive the largest award of $3.3 billion. Nationwide, the federal Commerce Department is distributing $42.5 billion.

The federal agency within the Commerce Department that is distributing the funds is called the National Telecommunications and Information Administration. Its mission is similar to that of the Rural Electrification Administration, a federal agency that subsidized construction of transmission lines to bring power to farms across the country. In the early 1930s an estimated 90 percent of farms lacked electric power.

The cost of running power lines was too high for most rural residents. In a city, the electric utility would spread the cost of building a ten-mile power line among thousands of customers. However, in the country those same costs would be shouldered by just a few families. For that reason, government funding was essential for bringing electricity to Arkansas and rural America.

Water Projects
The state Natural Resources Commission approved $702 million in loans and grants for 122 water and waste water projects, which will benefit more than 1.2 million Arkansas residents. With some of the loans, the principle will be forgiven.

It is the largest single distribution of money for water and waste water projects in state history.

SUPREME COURT AGREES WITH ARKANSAS ON STUDENT DEBT RULING
Griffin: ‘Congress writes the laws, and it’s up to Congress to decide how to address student debt’
LITTLE ROCK – Attorney General Tim Griffin today issued the following statement in response to the decision of the Supreme Court of the United States in Nebraska v. Biden:

“Today, the Supreme Court agreed with Arkansas and our coalition partners that President Biden can’t unilaterally cancel student debt and stick taxpayers with the nearly half-a-trillion-dollar bill. Under our Constitution, Congress writes the laws, and it’s up to Congress to decide how to address student debt. The Court’s decision reaffirms that. The President can’t act like a king—an important lesson to recall as we approach the Fourth of July holiday.”

Arkansas joined the states of Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska and South Carolina in the suit.

WESTERMAN STATEMENT ON SUPREME COURT RULING TO REJECT BIDEN'S STUDENT LOAN PROGRAM
WASHINGTON - Congressman Bruce Westerman released the following statement in response to the U.S. Supreme Court's ruling to reject President Biden's student loan forgiveness program:

"The Biden student loan forgiveness program was clearly unconstitutional, as ruled by the Supreme Court. However, the damage to the American taxpayer has already been done with this unconstitutional action costing the public $482 billion (35% of the deficit) in 2022 alone, according to the CBO. This administration must be held accountable for their unconstitutional actions and should develop a plan to reimburse America."

BOOZMAN STATEMENT ON SUPREME COURT’S RULING ON STUDENT LOAN CANCELLATION
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) released the following statement following the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling on the president’s student loan cancelation overreach.

“I’m pleased the Supreme Court overturned this attempt to bail out likely high-income earners at the expense of taxpayers who never went to college and those who fulfilled their obligation to pay off their debt. This reckless plan wasn’t authorized by Congress, but the solution to higher education affordability must include the legislative branch. I support legislation that increases access to college opportunities without excessive financial burdens.”

Boozman supported a Congressional Review Act resolution to overturn the president’s student debt cancelation earlier this month. In February, Boozman joined Republican senators in filling an amicus brief to the Supreme Court challenging the Biden administration’s student loan cancelation program.

 

 

ADEM ISSUES EXTREME HEAT SAFETY TIPS
North Little Rock, AR -- With dangerously high temperatures expected in the coming weeks, the Arkansas Division of Emergency Management (ADEM) urges Arkansans to take precautions to reduce the risk of heat overexposure.

Find cooling centers in your area: Cooling Centers - Arkansas Governor - Sarah Huckabee Sanders

ADEM, a division of the Arkansas Department of Public Safety, recommends getting educated on watches and warnings.  
Excessive Heat Watch
Forecasters expect a prolonged period (2 to 3 days) of exceedingly hot and humid weather conditions. 
Heat Advisory
Issued within 12 hours before dangerous heat conditions are expected. Daytime heat indices of 100ºF–104ºF for two or more hours. The heat index is a measure of how hot it feels when relative humidity is factored in with air temperature.
Excessive Heat Warning
Daytime heat indices of greater than or equal to 105°F for two or more hours.

Extreme heat can be very dangerous – even life-threatening – if people do not take precautions to maintain a normal body temperature. Some individuals are at a greater risk of heat overexposure than others, such as children, the elderly and those who are disabled or have medical conditions. No one is immune, however. It’s important to monitor yourself and others for signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses.

Heat-related Illnesses include:
HEAT CRAMPS are muscular pains and spasms caused by heavy sweating that usually occur in the legs or abdomen. Get the affected person to rest in a comfortable position in a cooler place. Give them water or fluids with electrolytes to help them rehydrate.
HEAT EXHAUSTION occurs when people overexert themselves in a warm, humid place and often affects those doing strenuous work in hot weather. Body fluids are lost through heavy sweating and blood flow to the skin increases, which causes the blood flow to vital organs to decrease. This results in a form of mild shock.

Symptoms of heat exhaustion include skin that is cool, moist, pale or flushed, nausea, dizziness, headache, weakness and/or exhaustion.

Treat it by helping the affected person rest in a comfortable position in a cooler place. Remove or loosen tight clothing and apply cool, wet cloths (such as towels or sheets). If the person is conscious, give them half a glass of cool water or fluids with electrolytes every 15 minutes, making sure that they drink slowly. Watch them carefully for changes in their condition and call 9-1-1 if it doesn’t improve.
HEAT STROKE is the most serious heat emergency and is life-threatening. It develops when systems in the body begin to stop functioning due to extreme heat. Heat stroke may cause brain damage or death if the body is not cooled quickly. 

Symptoms include extremely high body temperature, hot and red skin (dry or moist), loss of consciousness, changes in level of responsiveness rapid and weak pulse, rapid and shallow breathing, vomiting, confusion and/or seizures. Someone suffering from heat stroke needs immediate assistance. Call 9-1-1 and move the person to a cooler place. Immerse the individual in a cool bath, wrap in cold wet sheets, or cover the person in bags of ice if possible.

During times of extreme heat, it is important to: 
-- Stay indoors as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun. 

-- Do not leave pets outside for extended periods of time.
-- Find air conditioning, if possible.
-- Check on family members and neighbors – especially those without air conditioning.
-- Avoid strenuous activities.
-- Watch for signs and symptoms of heat-related illness (such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke).
-- Wear light-colored, loose-fitting and lightweight clothing.
-- If you must be outdoors, limit your outdoor activity to the morning and evening hours.

-- Try to rest often in shady areas so your body temperature will have a chance to recover. 

-- Use sunscreen with a high SPF and wear a wide-brimmed hat.
-- Drink plenty of water even if you aren’t thirsty. (Avoid drinks containing alcohol and high amounts of sugar and caffeine.) Make sure that pets have access to water.
-- Eat regular meals that are well balanced and light.
-- Never leave people or pets in a closed car, even with the windows cracked open. 

For more information from FEMA about managing extreme heat: Extreme Heat (fema.gov)

PUBLIC HEARING – CAMDEN WATERSHED PROJECT
There will be a Public Hearing on the Watershed Project Thursday, July 13, 2023, at 6:00 P.M. in the Council Chambers of the Municipal Building.

OUACHITA COUNTY HOLIDAY SCHEDULE
The Ouachita County Courthouse and the Ouachita County Extension Office will be closed Monday July 3rd and  Tuesday July 4th for Independence Day.

The Ouachita County Sanitation Department will run on regular schedule.

LEARNS ACT IMPLEMENTATION FULLY UNDER WAY
LITTLE ROCK – From the launch of the Education Freedom Account portal and the hiring of literacy coaches to the formation of all six work groups, the Arkansas Department of Education has made great progress in implementing key components of Gov. Sanders’ landmark education reform law – the LEARNS Act.

“When Gov. Sanders tasked ADE with implementing LEARNS, the department hit the ground running,” ADE Secretary Jacob Oliva said. “We are proud to announce we are ahead of schedule with implementation. Arkansas’ students, families, and teachers will benefit from the progress made this first year of implementation.”

LEARNS Website
To promote transparency and serve as a one-stop source of information about the LEARNS Act and the department’s implementation efforts, ADE recently launched a LEARNS website. It includes links to executive orders, LEARNS work groups, meeting resources, and the Education Freedom Account system.

Literacy Coaches
To directly support public schools, the department recently began interviewing applicants for the literacy coach positions. Job offers have been extended to 26 educators, with additional interviews and offers planned in the future.

As part of LEARNS, the department will hire approximately 120 literacy coaches to assist teachers with the training and support they need to ensure students are reading on grade level by the end of third grade.

Education Freedom Account Portal
ADE recently launched the Education Freedom Account portal for parents and schools who are interested in participating in the program this fall. Since the launch of the portal, more than 1,500 applications from families have been submitted, with close to 400 in the process of applying. Additionally, more than 50 private schools have submitted applications to serve as education providers in the program.

The department currently is reviewing applications to determine eligibility under the LEARNS Act. Interested families and schools have until July 31 to apply.

Work Groups
When ADE issued the call to action to serve on a work group, the response was overwhelming – the department received more than 1,200 applications representing a cross-section of stakeholders from around the state.

Participants for the initial three work groups — Career Readiness, Educator Workforce, and Parental Empowerment — were announced in May and have begun discussions to develop rules and policy recommendations for LEARNS.

In addition to these work groups, the department recently notified Arkansans selected for the remaining three work groups — Early Learning, School Safety, and Teaching and Learning.

Early Childhood Program Transition
ADE continues to collaborate with the Arkansas Department of Human Services regarding the transition of the Early Childhood Program to ADE. Beginning July 1, approximately 200 Early Childhood employees will transition from DHS to ADE. This allows ADE the opportunity to streamline and align education programs and services that support the birth to career continuum.

 

THE INNOVATION HUB SECURES THIRD CONSECUTIVE GRANT TO SUPPORT WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT EFFORTS
The PPG Foundation grants funding to continue Innovation Hub’s workforce development efforts through its Skills to Launch Program.
North Little Rock, Ark. The Arkansas Regional Innovation Hub’s Skills to Launch program is a 10-week intensive program, designed to provide skills training to individuals, 18 and older, in a variety of interesting trades, such as industrial maintenance, construction, production welding, HVAC, and Information Technology. The Hub provides individuals with the opportunity to receive this training through technical partners, such as the University of Arkansas Pulaski Technical College, Arkansas Center for Data Sciences, Seal Solar, and others. In addition, the participating individuals receive soft skills development training that includes financial literacy, resume building, career advising, and communications skills.

Through these multifaceted connections, graduates of the program can expect to find employment that offers living wages and opportunities for advancement while contributing to the local job market and labor field and generating a positive multiplier effect in surrounding communities.

The PPG Foundation has been a funding partner of the Skills to Launch Program for three consecutive years as part of its efforts to support workforce development initiatives that provide training and opportunities that introduce students to the diverse and high-tech career paths within skilled trade professions. The Hub is excited to utilize the funds to continue to provide scholarships to individuals in minority and marginalized communities who are committed to beginning a career in the skilled trade industry but are lacking the resources and the technical and soft skills needed to be successful in today’s job market.

“At PPG, we understand the importance of educating students with the advanced skills needed for career placements in technical fields,” said David LeSieur, Manufacturing Director, PPG Protective & Marine Coatings, US & CA. He added, “The PPG Foundation’s commitment to the Skills to Launch program connects students with access to the tools and training needed for a vast range of career possibilities.”

Mary Stafford, Program Manager, said, “The PPG Foundation’s generosity towards the Skills to Launch program has allowed multiple students to achieve their dreams of having a career in Production Welding and Industrial Maintenance. We are grateful for their continued support and commitment to programs like Skills to Launch that allow our participants access to hands-on training, resources, and life-changing careers.”

To date, 111 students have graduated from the program and 85% are employed thanks to this program.

To learn more about the Hub’s Skills to Launch program, visit arhub.org/skills-to-launch.

 

CAMDEN CITY COUNSEL TO HOLD SPECIAL MEETING
The Camden Board of Aldermen/woman will have a Special Called Meeting on Thursday, June 29, 2023, at 6:00pm in the Council Chambers of the Municipal Building.

Agenda:  A Resolution to give the Mayor the authority to extend the days off for employees when a holiday falls close to the weekend.

USACE REMINDS EVERYONE TO BE WATER SAFE THIS INDEPENDENCE DAY WEEKEND
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. -- Independence Day weekend is typically one of the three busiest weekends of the year on the region’s lakes and rivers. If your holiday plans include time on the water, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Little Rock District wants you to enjoy yourself but please be safe.

Remember to always wear your life jacket when on or near water, don’t drink alcoholic beverages and operate a boat, never swim alone and stick to designated swim areas. 

Following these safety tips can help make your family’s holiday a safe and enjoyable one.

Recreation information can be found on the Internet at www.swl.usace.army.mil, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/littlerockusace and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/usacelittlerock.

ASP INVESTIGATING OFFICER-INVOLVED SHOOTING
June 28, 2023
Earlier today, the Cabot Police Department (CPD) asked Arkansas State Police's Criminal Investigation Division to investigate an officer-involved shooting.

On Wednesday, June 28, 2023, at approximately 12:11 a.m., CPD was dispatched to Cabot Emergency Hospital after receiving a call that Douglas Nutter, 51, was involved in an altercation there. According to reports from officers, Nutter failed to comply with officer commands to stop, driving to a residence on Shady Lane in Lonoke County, where he again failed to comply with orders. During the encounter, CPD officers fired their services weapons, striking Nutter in the hand.

Nutter was taken into custody and transported to the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) in Little Rock for non-life threatening injures to his right hand. Nutter was later released from UAMS and transported to Cabot Police Department. He will be charged with two counts of Aggravated Assault on a Law Enforcement Officer, Felony Fleeing and Reckless Driving.

 

SAAC ANNOUNCES CAST FOR “NEWSIES” 
The South Arkansas Arts Center is pleased to announce the cast for the upcoming production of Disney’s “Newsies”, which will run July 20-23 and 26-30, 2023. Based on the Disney musical, SAAC’s production of “Newsies” is sponsored by Murphy USA. 

 “It has been a joy to come in and work with the fantastic talent that is at the South Arkansas Arts Center,” said director Ian Aipperspach. “The level of talent and the maturity of acting has been incredible to see and hear, which made casting the show a tough adventure, but everything fell into place, and we have the right actors to bring each character to life. I have enjoyed making new friends and ‘Seizing the Day’ with each and every one that has walked through the doors.” 

 Jack Kelly (Clayton Evers) and Katherine Plumber (Hannah Hickman) have a unique relationship. He is a handsome, charismatic, plainspoken young man who becomes the unlikely face of a strike for fair wages for newspaper workers. She is the daughter of Joseph Pulitzer, publisher of “The World,” and is trying to make a name for herself as a beat writer. Although she is prim and proper, she takes on the cause of helping Jack and his ragtag group of Newsies challenge her father for fair wages. 

 The Newsies are the hard-working kids of New York City. The heart of the Newsies resistance is Jack’s best friend Crutchie (Levi Nesbitt). The brains of this operation is book-smart Davey (Carmelo Brown) with his fearless little brother Les (Wiley Taylor) tagging along. Joining them is the proud leader of the Brooklyn Newsies, Spot Conlon (Grant Baker). The Newsies of New York City also consist of Race (Madeline Couture), Romeo (David Valero), and Specs (Ellis Lyles). Filling out the roles of the Newsies are Braelyn Allen, Georgia Blackmon, Austin Crank, Lexi Dorrell, Sarah Kellett, Hailee Lawrence, Luke Legg, Will Legg, Sarah Kelley, Crista Hopson, Gracie Robertson, Kaylee Sullivant, Parker Thomas and Zoe Pyle. 

An ally to the Newsies is theatre owner Medda Larkin (Hannah Hopson) along with her Bowery Beauties (Avery Hall and Summer Shipp) and Stage Manager (Charlie Hankins). The main villain is Joseph Pulitzer (Gary Hall), the owner of “The World.” Working for Pulitzer are his bookkeeper Bunsen (Austin Groves), secretary Hannah (Addie Bosanko), editor Seitz (Keith Dixon) and the brutish Delancey brothers (Matthew Power and Parker Lacy) that “handle” the newsies. Additional ensemble members are the crooked warden of the orphanage, Snyder (Kennedy Langston), Policeman (Blake Goff), Mayor of New York City (Hayden Nooner), and Governor Theodore Roosevelt (Mike Means).  

For more information or reserve tickets for this fun show, please call the SAAC office at 870-862-5474 or visit the website at www.saac-arts.org. Disney’s “Newsies” is licensed by Music Theatre International. Ticket prices are $10 for students, $20 for SAAC members and $30 for general admission.  SAAC is located at 110 East Fifth Street, El Dorado, Arkansas. 

PROTECT YOUR FREEDOM THIS INDEPENDENCE DAY: DRIVE SOBER OR GET PULLED OVER
June 26, 2023
This Independence Day, protect your freedom and the lives of others by committing to sober driving. Arkansas law enforcement will be teaming up with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over high-visibility impaired driving enforcement campaign. The primary goal of the increased law enforcement presence will be to help prevent tragedies previously seen around the July 4th holiday.

According to NHTSA, 13,384 motor vehicle crash-related deaths in 2021 involved alcohol-impaired drivers. This represented 31 percent of all traffic fatalities in the United States for the year, and a 14.2 percent increase from 2020. That same year, 538 people died in motor vehicle traffic crashes over the July 4th holiday alone (6 p.m. July 2 to 5:59 a.m. July 6). Thirty-nine percent (212) of those fatalities occurred in alcohol-impaired-driving crashes. With many Fourth of July festivities wrapping up in the evening or late at night, more cars are on the roads at night. Over the 2021 July 4th holiday period, of the 212 people who died in alcohol-impaired motor vehicle traffic crashes, 82% of those fatalities occurred in nighttime crashes (6 p.m.–5:59 a.m.).

“During the July 4th holiday, we will pull over and arrest drunk drivers,” said Colonel Mike Hagar, Arkansas Public Safety Secretary. “We have zero tolerance. Everyone knows the law: It is illegal to drink and drive. Still, people ignore the danger and drive after consuming alcohol. We know how to spot a drunk driver on the road. Drunk driving is selfish and arrogant, and it endangers the drivers, their passengers, and other people on the road.”

Remember: A few dollars spent on a ride is a lot cheaper than a DWI, which can cost up to $10,000. Something else to consider: Don’t ever be too proud or embarrassed to ask for a ride. Allowing a sober driver to help you get home keeps you and others safe. Want to know what’s more embarrassing than drunkenly asking for a sober ride home? Spending the night in jail. Having your car impounded. Losing your job or your security clearance. Take your pick.

Always have a plan before you head out for the evening. If you wait until after you’ve been drinking to figure out how to get from one place to the next, you might already be too impaired to make the right choices.

The Arkansas Highway Safety Office recommends these safe alternatives to drinking and driving:
- Designate a sober driver or plan to use public transportation or a ride service to get home safely.
- If you see a drunk driver on the road, call 9-1-1.
- If you know someone who is about to drive a vehicle or operate a motorcycle while impaired, help them make other arrangements to get to their destination safely.
- Buckle up, always. Your seat belt is your best defense against a drunk driver.

For more information on impaired driving, visit https://www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drunk-driving or call the Arkansas Highway Safety Office at (501) 618-8136. For more on Arkansas’ ongoing Toward Zero Deaths campaign to eliminate preventable traffic fatalities, visit www.TZDArkansas.org
 

SECRETARY OF STATE MOBILE OFFICES SCHEDULED
(LITTLE ROCK, ARK.) – Outreach staff for Arkansas Secretary of State John Thurston will be conducting mobile offices around the state in the next couple of weeks. These mobile offices will allow citizens to get information about the various services the Secretary of State offers, including voter registration, business services, notary training, and more.

"Not everyone can come to Little Rock to access these services. Our staff will help them take care of business where they live," said Thurston. "We want to make doing business with the state as easy as possible," he said.

The upcoming mobile office times and locations are listed below.

 June 26, 11:00 - 1:00
Lawrence County
Walnut Ridge City Hall
300 West Main
Walnut Ridge, AR 

June 27, 10:00 - 12:00
Bradley County
Bradley County Courthouse
100 East Cedar Street
Warren, AR 

 June 27, 11:00 - 1:00
Craighead County
Bay City Hall
220 Elder Street
Bay, AR

June 29, 11:00 - 1:00
Cross County
Wynne City Hall 
206 South Falls Blvd. 
Wynne, AR

July 6, 9:00 – 11:00
Polk County
Polk County Library
410 8th Street
Mena, AR

 July 13, 10:00 - 12:00
Baxter County
Baxter County Library
300 Library Hill
Mountain Home, AR

 

CELEBRATING A CENTURY OF GAME-CHANGERS: U.S. AIR FORCE HONORS 100 YEARS OF AERIAL REFUELING WITH GLOBAL FLYOVER EVENTS
KEY FIELD AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, Miss. – The United States Air Force invites the American public to join on June 27 to observe flyovers of our air refuelers above communities across the country and around the world, honoring 100 years of aerial refueling excellence.

The flyover beginning from Key Field Air National Guard Base, Mississippi, will feature the KC-135R, and other fighters and cargo aircraft from a three-state area. The route of flight will be visible from landmarks in Mississippi, Arkansas and Louisiana. Landmarks and approximate local times are as follows.

9:15 a.m. Meridian, Miss.—Threefoot Hotel
9:45 a.m. Mississippi Gulf Coast, Pascagoula
10:00 a.m. Mississippi Gulf Coast, Waveland1
0:30 a.m. Natchez, Miss.--Vidalia Bridge
10:40 a.m. Vicksburg, Miss.--Vicksburg National Military Park
10:50 a.m. Jackson, Miss.--Mississippi State Capitol
11:55 a.m. Fayetteville, Ark.---Arkansas Razorback Stadium
12:10 p.m. Fort Smith, Ark.
12:30 p.m. Little Rock, Ark.--Arkansas State Capitol
1:40 p.m. Baton Rouge, La.—U.S.S. Kidd
1:55 p.m. New Orleans, La.---Super Dome/Jackson Square

With 100 years of experience, today’s U.S. Air Force air refueling capabilities deliver unrivaled rapid global reach for U.S. forces and our Allies and partners through the mobility air forces fleet of KC-46, KC-135 and KC-10 tankers. Aerial refueling serves as a force multiplier, increasing the speed, range, lethality, flexibility and versatility of combat aircraft. Tankers also carry cargo and passengers, perform aeromedical evacuations, and enable strategic deterrence for the United States.

“Air refueling propels our Nation’s air power across the skies, unleashing its full potential,” said Gen. Mike Minihan, Air Mobility Command commander. “It connects our strategic vision with operational reality, ensuring we can reach any corner of the globe with unwavering speed and precision. Air refueling embodies our resolve to defend freedom and project power, leaving an indelible mark on aviation history.”

OPERATION SAFE STREETS NETS ANOTHER 788 ARRESTS
June 23, 2023
The numbers are in for the third stage of Operation Safe Streets, which occurred over the June 17-18 weekend. Arkansas State Police is reporting 788 arrests for violations including 121 driving at excessive speeds and 24 driving while intoxicated.

More than 45 Troopers from Arkansas' 12 Troops, including members of ASP's command staff, made contact with 1,274 violators during the 48-hour effort.

Operation Safe Streets, which kicked off May 13 and has included three weekends, is an initiative to saturate the Little Rock metropolitan area with an enhanced law enforcement presence intent on shutting down criminal activity. The ongoing stratagem has been enormously successful, with a running grand total of 2,404 officer violation contacts, with 1,473 arrests that include 53 DWI violations and 202 excessive speed violations.

HONORS AWARDED TO TOP ASP TROOPERS AND STAFF 
Arkansas State Police Colonel Mike Hagar introduced keynote speaker Bill Buford, retired ASP Bomb Squad Commander and former ATF Agent in Charge, at the 2023 Arkansas State Police Awards Ceremony today.

"In the 25 years I was Agent in Charge here ... I never had State Police turn me down once," Buford said. "It always felt so good when we rolled up on the scene and saw a State Police car. I would think, 'Thank God the big hats are here.' "

Buford was the resident Agent in Charge of the ATF's Little Rock office when he was seriously injured during the February 1993 standoff at the Branch Davidian compound near Waco, Texas. 

During today's ceremony, hosted by the Arkansas State Police Foundation, Lt. Philip L. Hydron Jr. was named Arkansas State Police Trooper of the Year for 2022.  Lt. Hydron is Assistant Commander of Troop D and a member of ASP SWAT.

Lt. Hydron was seriously injured on Dec. 15, 2022, while ASP SWAT attempted to arrest a homicide suspect who had barricaded himself with a hostage inside a Stuttgart residence. Stuttgart Police Sgt. Donald Scoby was killed in the incident. During the gun battle, the suspect shot Lt. Hydron in the left forearm.

Jeff Taylor, Digital Evidence Lab Manager for Arkansas State Police, was awarded the Arkansas State Police Civilian Employee of the Year. Mr. Taylor is responsible for overseeing 90% of the electronic evidence processed by ASP.  Mr. Taylor’s work has impacted dozens of arrests and successful prosecutions during the past year.

Others recognized:
Official Commendations
Trooper Isaac Lawson
TFC Shawn Ellis
Corporal Mark Morton
Trooper Jeb Little
Corporal Joshua Berry
Trooper Shane Caviness

Lifesaving Awards
Corporal Josh Porter
TFC Jimmy Plyler Jr.
Sgt. Andrew Ault
Trooper Cody Brown
TFC Spencer Morris
Sgt. Steven Roberts
Trooper James Byrd
Corporal Herbert Glen Bates
Corporal Todd Harris
Trooper Adrienne Belcher
Trooper Austin Duncan
Trooper Matthew Foreman
Trooper Michael Austin Kennedy

Distinguished Service Awards
Jason Eugene Starke
Christopher Kleist
Jerod L. Harness
Otto Edward Collins
Marshall Sexson

Medal of Valor
Corporal Anthony Maggitt
Corporal Logan Hall
Sgt. Brandon Bennett
Sgt. Shawn Mason
Corporal Justin Harmon|
Corporal Dakotah Bailey
TFC Remington Lively
Corporal Shane Alkire
Capt. Jeff Sheeler
Lt. Philip Hydron
Capt. Craig Teague
Lt. Brandon Margis
Sgt. Brandon Bennett
SA Aaron Middleton
Corporal Justin Harmon
Corporal Joseph Gilliland
TFC Jackson Dorman
TFC Remington Lively

Troopers’ Cross
TFC John Bass

Gold Shield
Lt. Philip Hydron
 

OVER $700 MILLION PROVIDED FOR ARKANSAS WATER AND WASTEWATER PROJECTS
LITTLE ROCK, AR— On June 22, 2023, the Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Commission (ANRC) approved $702,318,258 in funding for 122 water and wastewater projects serving more than 1,253,000 Arkansans. This is the largest allocation of funds awarded for water and wastewater in the state of Arkansas to date.

 

“Water and wastewater infrastructure systems are critically important to the everyday lives of every Arkansan. The Department of Agriculture and the Natural Resources Commission are pleased to have approved a record level of funding for 122 water and wastewater projects that will serve over one-third of our state’s population,” said Wes Ward, Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture.

The ANRC approves and provides financial assistance to eligible Arkansas entities from five different programs through loans, loans with principal forgiveness, and grants. A total of $633,138,145 was provided in loans, $68,957,100 in loans with principal forgiveness, and $223,013 in grants.

 

A complete list of the projects funded can be found at agriculture.arkansas.gov/

natural-resources/news/announcements/.

 

In addition to project funding, the ANRC approved two grants to the Arkansas Rural Water Association, totaling $190,000, to provide technical assistance to communities for water and wastewater infrastructure across the state. The Commission also approved a $43 million General Obligation Bond Series Resolution, conservation district board appointments, and $1.2 million in funding to conservation districts.

 

More information about the Natural Resources Division’s water and wastewater programs can be found at agriculture.arkansas.gov/natural-resources/divisions/water-development/water-and-wastewater-funding/ or by contacting Debby Dickson at debra.dickson@agriculture.arkansas.gov or 501-682-0548.
 

The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies and programs for Arkansas agriculture, forestry, and natural resources to keep its farmers and ranchers competitive in national and international markets while conserving natural resources and ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation. Visit agriculture.arkansas.gov/. The Arkansas Department of Agriculture offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
 

STATE CAPITOL WEEK IN REVIEW FROM SENATOR MATT STONE
June 23, 2023
LITTLE ROCK – In 2021 the legislature approved Act 626, making Arkansas the first state in the nation to prohibit physicians from performing gender transition procedures on minors.

Since then at least 19 other states have enacted similar laws to prohibit procedures such as hormone therapy and surgery for adolescents under 18 who wish to change their genders.

Legal challenges were quickly filed against Act 626, and on June 20 a federal judge struck the law as unconstitutional. His ruling received national media attention and it probably will be referenced in the legal challenges filed in others states against their laws that seek to prohibit gender transition procedures for minors.

The law is called the Safe Act, which stands for the Arkansas Save Adolescents from Experimentation Act. It passed the Senate by a vote of 28-to-7 and the House of Representatives by a vote of 70-to-22. The governor at the time vetoed it, saying it went too far by denying care to adolescents who were already receiving medical treatment. The legislature overrode his veto.

Since the Safe Act was passed in 2021, Arkansas has elected a new governor and a new attorney general. The current governor criticized the federal judge’s ruling and the current attorney general said that the state would appeal it.

The federal judge ruled that Act 626 violates the equal protection clause of the Constitution because transgender adolescents would be denied medical care recommended by their physicians after consultation with their parents.

Every parent has the right to seek medical care for their children, the judge ruled, adding that the state’s evidence was insufficient to support its claims that the procedures banned by Act 626 are more dangerous than other medical procedures that are allowed for children.

The parents of adolescents who have received gender transition medical treatment testified that it helped their children. The state did not rebut their testimony. Several physicians and expert witnesses testified about the positive effect of gender transition medical treatment, and the state presented no evidence to dispute them.

The state presented only one expert witness who has experience treating adolescents with gender issues. The judge said he was a credible witness. However the witness’s testimony revealed a conflict between his scientific knowledge and his faith.

Another expert witness for the state is a sociologist. The judge did not credit his testimony because he lacked relevant experience and his evidence did not support his conclusions.

The judge said that another expert witness for the state, a physician who does plastic surgery, was not qualified to offer opinions in the case.

The state’s expert witnesses cited public health guidelines in the United Kingdom, Sweden and Finland to defend Act 626. However, the judge ruled that evidence shows that those countries do not prohibit gender transition care for minors.

“Most of the state’s expert witnesses … were unqualified to offer relevant expert testimony and offered unreliable testimony,” the judge said in his ruling. On the other hand, the expert witnesses presented by the plaintiffs all showed deep knowledge of the subject matter, and provided credible testimony relevant to the case.

The judge said on numerous occasions in his 80-page ruling that testimony presented by the state was lacking, or insufficient or irrelevant.

According to the evidence presented at trial, Act 626 would prohibit medical procedures that benefit adolescents, the judge ruled. His order prevents the state from enforcing it.

SENATE APPROPRIATIONS COMMITTEE ADVANCES BOOZMAN-LED BILL DELIVERING FUNDS TO ARKANSAS
WASHINGTON – The Senate Appropriations Committee advanced legislation produced by U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR), ranking member of the Senate Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies (MilCon-VA) Appropriations Subcommittee, that delivers $83 million to the future pilot training center in Fort Smith, raises quality of life standards for servicemembers and their families, and increases resources for veterans’ health care and benefits. 

“This bill bolsters our military infrastructure through critical investments that will enhance our capabilities to defend our nation’s interests against global security threats, including by funding the future pilot training center in Fort Smith,” Boozman said. “It also helps ensure our country lives up to the promises we made to our veterans, honoring their service and sacrifice with improvements to telehealth measures, health services for women and suicide-prevention initiatives. This bipartisan measure reflects our strong commitment to the men and women who wear America’s uniform – past, present and future.”

 Funding Boozman secured for Arkansas will help improve military readiness and oncology care in the state: 

$83 million to the Air National Guard to support the future pilot training center at Ebbing Airfield.

$10 million to expand collaboration between the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical centers and National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated comprehensive centers to new sites. Arkansas currently is one of 14 states without an NCI-designated center.

This legislation also includes critical support for the construction of national defense facilities, family housing, and military hospitals and schools in addition to providing funding for veterans’ health care, benefits and modernization of the VA’s electronic health records system.

COTTON, BOOZMAN, COLLEAGUES REINTRODUCE BILL TO REQUIRE CONGRESSIONAL VOTE ON IRAN SANCTIONS RELIEF
Washington, D.C. — Arkansas Senators Tom Cotton and John Boozman joined Senator Bill Hagerty (R-Tennessee) and twenty-three of their colleagues in reintroducing the Iran Sanctions Relief Review Act (ISRRA). The legislation would ensure that the president submits any sanctions relief relating to Iran for congressional review. The bill would also provide a backstop if the executive branch attempts to evade the legal requirements for congressional review of any agreement related to Iran’s nuclear program contained in the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act.

“As President Biden continues efforts to resurrect the failed Iran nuclear deal, Congress should review any sanctions relief Iran receives. Iran’s leaders have made it abundantly clear they wish the destruction of America—there is no reason we should let them access funds to help them do so. This legislation will provide a check on the Biden administration if they try to circumvent Congress during negotiations,” said Senator Cotton and Senator Boozman.

“As Iran’s terror-sponsoring regime continues to pursue nuclear weapons to harm Americans and our regional partners and allies, it is critical to provide insurance if President Biden keeps trying to run around Congress and relieve sanctions on Iran. My legislation will make it abundantly clear to the Biden administration that any agreement made with Iran that involves sanctions relief must be submitted for congressional review,” said Senator Hagerty.

Background:
Cotton and Boozman first cosponsored the Iran Sanctions Relief Review Act in April 2021 as the Biden Administration announced that it was prepared to lift sanctions on Iran as part of its effort to rejoin the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).

The Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act (INARA)—which passed the Senate by a 99-1 vote in 2015—requires the president to submit any “agreement with Iran relating to the nuclear program of Iran” for congressional review, including a potential vote in each chamber on a joint resolution of disapproval.

Recent news reports, however, have suggested that the Biden administration may pursue “an informal understanding with Iran” because “[a]ny formal agreement or even a less formal understanding, which appears far more likely, could force a review in Congress, where Republicans and some Democrats strongly oppose a nuclear deal with Iran.”

At a recent event hosted by a non-governmental organization and posted on social media, Tess Bridgeman—who served as Deputy Legal Adviser to the National Security Council from 2014 to 2017—explained the executive branch’s apparent approach. “With elections coming up, we are not going to see the Administration do anything that will require a vote in Congress, so I think it is important to keep in mind as we propose alternatives that they be in that realm of discretionary unilateral gestures,” Bridgeman said, adding: “Something that is written down on a piece of paper for all sides to try to implement is a recipe for Congress making it impossible.”

ISRRA draws on the precedent found in the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA, Public Law 115-44).   Section 216 of CAATSA authorizes congressional review—including a potential vote in each chamber on a joint resolution of disapproval—of certain actions relating to sanctions imposed with respect to the Russian Federation.

ISRRA applies the same standard of congressional review procedures described in Section 216 of CAATSA to certain actions relating to sanctions imposed with respect to Iran. In other words, ISRRA preserves and protects the role of Congress if the executive branch, under any Administration, attempts to circumvent INARA, including by using an unwritten agreement that includes sanctions relief relating to Iran.

AEDC’S RURAL SERVICES DIVISION AWARDS $692,435 TO 49 ARKANSAS COMMUNITIES
LITTLE ROCK, Arkansas (June 20, 2023) – The Arkansas Economic Development Commission’s Rural Services Division recently awarded grants totaling $692,435 to 49 Arkansas cities and counties through two grant programs.

AEDC Executive Director Clint O’Neal, AEDC Deputy Director Neil Greathouse, Director of Rural Services Becca Caldwell, and the Arkansas Rural Development Commission presented the grants to the recipients during the Arkansas Rural Development Conference, held May 23-25 at the Oaklawn Event Center in Hot Springs, Arkansas.

A total of $75,000 was awarded to the Lead Hill Fire Department under the Rural Services Block Grant Program. This grant program funds new construction or renovation of community centers, fire stations, or multi-purpose buildings, as well as the purchase of fire trucks (pumper, tanker, brush, or certain service trucks). Applicants from incorporated towns of less than 3,000 in population and unincorporated rural areas with low to moderate incomes of 51 percent or higher are eligible for up to $75,000 in funds under the program with a 10 percent match.

A total of $542,435 was awarded to 48 cities and counties under the Rural Community Grant Program  to fund projects such as baseball fields, community parks, walking trails, community centers, fire stations, fire trucks, and other fire protection-related equipment. Applicants from incorporated towns of less than 3,000 in population and unincorporated rural areas are eligible for up to $15,000 in matching funds under the program.

Photos of grant recipients can be viewed HERE.

For cities and counties interested in applying for Fiscal Year 2024 grants, the next application cycle deadline is August 10, 2023. More information about the programs, as well as deadlines, can be found at www.arkansasedc.com/Rural-Services/division

 

THE EVENTS CENTER AT FAIRVIEW PARK, INC. ANNOUNCES SUMMER ARTS ACADEMY
The Events Center Summer Arts Academy is excited to offer three opportunities for area youth to participate in affordable Arts Classes and experience new creative arts forms, in a non-threatening environment.

Art Camp, June 26 – 29, will be led by Amanda Cornwell and Lindsey Cornwell – both experienced in leading art camp classes. Amanda is a teacher leader in SAU Kids College, and experienced Children’s Ministry coordinator in Magnolia.

Lindsey is a rising sophomore SAU student studying Education with an emphasis in Art.
Classes Monday  through Thursday
Ages 5 – 8 years:   9:30am – 11:30 am;
Ages 9 – 14: 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Art Show and Reception Thursday 6:00 pm

Interested older youth are invited to serve as Junior Counselors.

Stage 37 Theater Camp will be directed by Lynn Gunter for 4th grade – 12th grade students. The Camp theme will be “The Snow Queen”, an original script written by the director.  Additional information  and supply list are available, on request.

The Class is Monday – Friday from 9 am – 3:00 pm
Performance Friday  6:00 pm

Hand slapping – toe tapping Musical Dance Camp will be led by Rebecca Gunter Carpenter, college  student and frequent dance Instructor at SAAC in El Dorado. The theme will be based on the music from Grease. This class is designed for youth: rising 6th graders – graduating Seniors.

Classes are Monday – Thursday 9:30 am – 3:00 pm
Performance: Thursday, 6:00 pm

Additional information and Application links are available on The Events Center at Fairview Park Facebook page, emailing theeventscenter37@gmail,  or by contacting Amanda T. Wunnenberg 870-510-9332

 

ENTERGY ARKANSAS PROVIDES SUMMER ENERGY EFFICIENCY TIPS
Little Rock, Ark. – Signs of summer are already here. Entergy Arkansas cares about our customers and wants to help them save both energy and money. Taking time to prepare your home for higher temperatures can ultimately help you save money on your utility bills.

During the warmer months, cooling costs make up more than 55% of an average customer’s electric bill. This means that taking steps to save energy can help lower your electric bills when temperatures are hot. You can manage your energy usage and save money by installing energy efficient upgrades through the Entergy Solutions program for Entergy Arkansas customers. Examples of products and services available at little to no cost include LED bulbs, smart thermostats, AC tune-ups, duct sealing and insulation.

Additionally, the program offers home assessments that yield energy efficiency recommendations. A Home Performance with ENERGY STAR assessment reduces the up-front cost of installing energy efficiency upgrades.

Customers also can save money with these quick and easy energy efficiency tips:
Change air filters. Air filters on some air conditioning units require monthly cleaning or replacing.
Setting the thermostat to 78 degrees or the highest comfortable temperature. Every degree lower than 78 can raise a bill as much as 3%.
Buy a programmable thermostat. A programmable thermostat can help manage costs, is controllable, and can help monitor usage.  
Use fans to cool off. Ceiling fans, box fans and oscillating fans use very little electricity to circulate the air. Make sure ceiling fans are rotating in the right direction – counter-clockwise during summer – to push cooler air down into the room. Be sure to turn all fans off in unused rooms.
Close blinds, shades and curtains to keep the sun out and the cool air in. Also, close air conditioning vents in rooms that are not in use.
Seal cracks and holes around doors, windows and ductwork. Weather stripping and caulk will help keep the cold air in and the hot air out.
Use the myAdvisor tool on myentergy.com. The usage and cost tool can compare usage history by month, day and hour.

For customers struggling to pay their bill, Entergy offers a number of payment options, such as level billing, auto-pay and more, as well as tools and programs designed to help customers manage energy usage. For more information, visit myentergy.com/s/programs or call 1-800-ENTERGY (1-800-368-3749) to speak with a customer service representative.

There also are third party agencies that provide utility bill assistance for seniors, disabled individuals and programs that are income-based. Through Entergy's The Power to Care program, local nonprofit agencies provide emergency bill payment assistance to seniors and disabled individuals. You also may be eligible to receive federal payment assistance through the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program or LIHEAP.

For any additional questions or information regarding customer bills, please visit entergy.com/answers.

About Entergy Arkansas
Entergy Arkansas, LLC provides electricity to approximately 730,000 customers in 63 counties. Entergy Arkansas is a subsidiary of Entergy Corporation, a Fortune 500 electric company. Entergy powers life for 3 million customers through our operating companies in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas. We’re investing in the reliability and resilience of the energy system while helping our region transition to cleaner, more efficient energy solutions. With roots in our communities for more than 100 years, Entergy is a nationally recognized leader in sustainability and corporate citizenship. Since 2018, we have delivered more than $100 million in economic benefits each year to local communities through philanthropy, volunteerism and advocacy. Entergy is headquartered in New Orleans, Louisiana, and has approximately 12,000 employees.

STATE CAPITOL EXHIBIT FOCUSES ON HISTORY OF U.S. MARSHALS SERVICE IN ARKANSAS
LITTLE ROCK, ARK.) – Arkansas Secretary of State John Thurston would like to invite the public to view the latest exhibit at the State Capitol.

In this exhibit, we celebrate the United States Marshals Service, the nation's oldest law enforcement agency, and showcase a brief history of the Marshals who brought law and order to our state.

Today, the role of the Marshal Service has expanded to include security to the federal judiciary and manages the witness security program. It manages and sells seized or forfeited assets of criminals, is responsible for the confinement and transportation of federal prisoners who have not yet been turned over to the Bureau of Prisons, and is the primary federal agency responsible for fugitive investigations.

On September 24, 2014, the 225th anniversary of the U.S. Marshals Service, a groundbreaking ceremony was held in Fort Smith for the United States Marshals Museum; the museum is scheduled to open on July 1, 2023. 

Secretary Thurston said, "The new U.S. Marshals Museum will be a showcase for Arkansas, encouraging tourism and serving as a true educational experience for those interested in our nation's history. We are proud to partner with them on this exhibit at the Capitol."

The Secretary of State’s Office would like to thank the following for their contributions to this exhibit: David Kennedy, Curator, United States Marshals Museum; Dave Lumbert; David Turk, National Historian, United States Marshals Service; and U.S. Marshal Jeremy Hammons.

The display is located in the fourth floor gallery and will be available for viewing through August 21st.
 

GOVERNOR SANDERS APPOINTS KYLE CUNNINGHAM AS STATE FORESTER
LITTLE ROCK, AR— The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is pleased to announce that Governor Sanders has appointed Kyle Cunningham as the State Forester for Arkansas. The State Forester serves as the director of the Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Forestry Division. Cunningham is replacing Joe Fox who is retiring at the end of June.

 

“Kyle’s decades of experience in the forestry industry make him the ideal steward of our state’s forest health and conservation. I know he’s the right candidate to take over this position and shepherd the Forestry Division’s important role in Arkansas’ economy and natural heritage,” said Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders.

Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture Wes Ward said, “Kyle’s experience and leadership in working with a wide range of industry partners and stakeholders will serve the Forestry Division and our state well. We look forward to working with him at the Arkansas Department of Agriculture.”

 

Cunningham has worked in several capacities at the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture (UADA) over the last 19 years and most recently served as an associate professor of forestry at the UADA.  His work at UADA consisted of conducting research on all facets of the forestry industry, providing outreach to the public, developing successful grant programs, and developing a hardwood management education program in Arkansas. Cunningham holds a bachelor’s degree in forestry from Mississippi State University (MSU), a master’s degree in forest management from MSU, and a doctorate degree in applied science from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.

 

“I am honored to be appointed to serve as the State Forester and have the opportunity to lead the Forestry Division within the Arkansas Department of Agriculture,” said Cunningham. “I have always appreciated and respected the role and services that the department provides to the public. I look forward to working alongside Forestry Division staff, commissioners, and partners to protect the health and safety of Arkansas’s forests and promote Arkansas’s forestry industry.  

The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies and programs for Arkansas agriculture, forestry, and natural resources to keep its farmers and ranchers competitive in national and international markets while conserving natural resources and ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation. Visit agriculture.arkansas.gov/. The Arkansas Department of Agriculture offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

 

BOOZMAN, ROSEN, BLUMENTHAL INTRODUCE BIPARTISAN BILL TO GROW USE OF DRONE TECHNOLOGY FOR INFRASTRUCTURE INSPECTIONS
Legislation Would Also Invest in Workforce Development for New Drone Technology Jobs
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR), Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) introduced the Drone Infrastructure Inspection Grant (DIIG) Act to help utilize drone technology to inspect critical infrastructure. This bipartisan bill would authorize $100 million in competitive grants to help local governments fund more opportunities to use American-made drones in critical infrastructure inspections, maintenance or construction projects.

“There’s no reason not to utilize drone technology that’s produced right here in America to more efficiently and effectively assess the safety of our bridges, railways and other infrastructure,” said Boozman. “In Arkansas, we’ve seen the numerous benefits they offer – from precision agriculture to law enforcement missions and enhancing manual inspections – but we’re also at the forefront of guarding against reliance on foreign-based manufacturers to supply unmanned aircraft systems. Our bipartisan bill helps expand this vision nationwide and invests in educational opportunities necessary to create more skilled operators and technicians.”

“As we implement the historic investments to update our nation’s infrastructure, we must use the latest technology to identify structures that need to be fixed,” said Rosen. “This bipartisan legislation I’m introducing will help local governments invest in drones to better inspect their infrastructure for safety and reliability, while preparing our workforce for jobs of the future.”

“These grants are an important investment to ensure state and local inspection officials have the resources they need to keep our infrastructure and communities safe,” said Blumenthal. “Drone technology can be a valuable tool to help us modernize our roads and bridges. The next generation of highly-trained workers are key to a sustainable, world-class transportation network.”

Drones have been used to help inspect infrastructure projects and prevent catastrophes. In 2021, drone footage helped reveal a severe crack in the I-40 bridge connecting Arkansas and Tennessee, which carries an estimated 40,000 vehicles across the Mississippi River every day.

“Drones are being relied on as indispensable tools for critical operations, including infrastructure inspections – and that role will only continue to grow as the technology advances further. The future of aviation leadership is in autonomy, and the United States must invest in supporting the drone industry and growing workforce. This bill accomplishes both goals by providing states with grants to funding to acquire and utilize secure drones for infrastructure inspection and to train the workforce to conduct these critical missions," said Michael Robbins, Chief Advocacy Officer at the Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI). “The U.S. cannot afford to fall behind in the drone industry’s ability to attract capital, investment, and workforce. Congress should pass this commonsense legislation to help level the playing field for the U.S. drone industry and to encourage the infrastructure and workforce benefits the DIIG Act would bring to communities nationwide.”

This legislation would also enable research universities to access grants for programs geared toward training the next generation of workers who operate drones.

COTTON LEADS BIPARTISAN LETTER TO COMMERCE DEPARTMENT URGING REFORM OF TARIFF EXCLUSION PROCESS FOR AMERICAN ALUMINUM PRODUCERS
Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas), along with six of his colleagues, sent a letter to Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo urging the administration to revise tariff exclusion rules previously approved for aluminum extrusion products. The letter details how the Department of Commerce’s General Approved Exclusion Rules have placed unnecessary burdens on domestic aluminum manufacturers and has facilitated a surge of foreign imports.  

Co-signing the letter are Senators Mitt Romney (R-Utah), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Debbie Stabenow (D-Michigan), Raphael Warnock (D-Georgia), Bob Casey (D-Pennsylvania), and Marco Rubio (R-Florida). 

In part, the senators wrote:
“As a result of these exclusions, extruded aluminum imports have risen 82 percent and American producers have lost millions of tons of possible sales since 2019. Foreign market penetration now exceeds 25 percent, the highest level in over a decade. 

Full text of the letter may be found below.

June 7, 2023

The Honorable Gina Raimondo
Secretary
Department of Commerce
1401 Constitution Ave NW
Washington, DC 20230

Dear Secretary Raimondo,

We write to urge the Department of Commerce to reform its Section 232 exclusion process for extruded aluminum imports.

In 2018, the Department of Commerce reported that rising aluminum imports “are ‘weakening our internal economy’ and threaten to impair the national security as defined in Section 232” and imposed a 10 percent tariff in response. As a result, aluminum imports fell by 31 percent and domestic production rose by nearly a billion dollars between 2018-2021. You have noted in public remarks that “the data show that those tariffs have been effective.”

Although these tariffs have curbed unfair foreign competition for primary aluminum producers, they have not sufficiently protected aluminum extruders. This is because the Department of Commerce has adopted overly broad tariff exclusion rules.

Your department’s General Approved Exclusions rules allow American purchasers to import extruded aluminum products tariff-free if the product cannot immediately “be produced in the United States in a sufficient and reasonably available amount or of a satisfactory quality.” If an American aluminum extruder objects to an exclusion, they must prove their company can either produce the extruded product in eight weeks or produce the extruded product faster than any specified foreign competitor. While the spirit of the requirements is reasonable, these rules have placed an unfair burden on American extruders.

American aluminum extruders employ over 60,000 workers, possess hundreds of presses, and can produce over five million custom shapes. This robust industry requires product dimensions and specifications to acquire the tooling necessary for individual manufacturing jobs, which can take weeks. This is not the result of extruder lethargy or a lack of productive capacity. Instead, it is the nature of custom manufacturing. The Department of Commerce nonetheless grants importers exemptions as if they were dealing with shelf-ready mass producers. Aluminum extruders in turn have difficulty overturning these exclusions.

As a result of these exclusions, extruded aluminum imports have risen 82 percent and American producers have lost millions of tons of possible sales since 2019. Foreign market penetration now exceeds 25 percent, the highest level in over a decade. Extruded aluminum imports from Mexico, which is suspected of accommodating Chinese transshipment, have risen an astonishing 150 percent. 

American extruders have been forced to cut shifts, capital investment, and production. Since the third quarter of 2022, the Aluminum Extruders Council estimates that America’s extruder industry has been forced to lay off 15 percent of its workforce—costing our nation nearly 9,000 jobs. Extruder plants could be shuttered if these trends continue, which would hurt American workers and undermine America’s defense industrial base.

We respectfully urge the Department of Commerce to reform its tariff exclusion process for extruded aluminum products. We are confident that the department can find reasonable accommodations for this important industry.

Sincerely,

CITY OF CAMDEN BOARD OF ALDERMEN MEET
The City of Camden Board of Aldermen met in regular session on Tuesday, June 13, 2023 in the Council Chambers of the Municipal Building. Mayor Charlotte Young called the meeting to order promptly at 7:00 PM

The Invocation was given by Rev. Roby Compston, Pastor of the Camden Bible Church, 1245 California Avenue in Camden The Invocation was followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.

City Clerk Donna Stewart called the roll. Aldermen Ebony Gulley, William McCoy, L.E. Lindsey, Chris Aregood, Marvin Moore, Ed Winters, and Joe Askew were all present. Alderman Gerald Castleberry was absent.

The Minutes of Regular the regular meeting dated May 9, 2023 were presented in print.
Ebony Gulley pointed out she felt that there were inaccuracies in the minutes. Alderman Moore asked when the proper time to answer questions that residents bring forth during audience participation. City Attorney Fry said there is no obligation to give a direct response. Alderman Lindsey stayed that if there was a discussion to be had, the end of the meeting would be an appropriate time. Alderman Askew stated that if there was an issue, the resident should be given an answer even if it is at a later date. The discussion returned to the May minutes. Alderman Gulley made a motion that the minutes be amended to clarify statements she made that were inaccurately recorded. Alderman Lindsey seconded the motion. Motion to amend passed. Alderman Moore returned to the discussion of answering the questions asked by residents A back and forth discussion ensued. Alderman Gulley repeated what Alderman Moore had said. Alderman Lindsey called for the vote. The minutes were finally approved as amended.

The Financial Report for the month of May was presented in print. Motion was made and seconded. There was no discussion or questions regarding the Financial Report however, the report was accepted with a vote of  4 Aldermen voting for and 3 Aldermen voting against.

Several members of the Community spoke during the Audience Participation portion of the meeting. Subjects ranged from potholes to problems at Riverside Court with unattended children playing in the street. There was a resident concerned with things for Senior Citizens to do.

Kevin Franklin, Public Works Director gave the  Bi-annual Report on the Publicity Works Department.
The report is as follows:
Public Works 2022-2023

Street Department - 11 employees
The street dept. has completed 53 street cuts/water cuts. 22 sewer cuts. The average size of the street cut is 4X6 foot and the average size of a sewer cut is 4X10. That totals up to 75 cuts. We have spread somewhere around 97 yards of concrete. We have spread over 84 tons of Cold mix. We have fixed 11 culverts and 25 washouts. Our bush hogs have cut over 2000 acres of city property. Street sweeper has made over 10 rounds through every ward cleaning street. FYI the street sweeper only works on areas that have curbs.

They also worked several windstorms that left a ton of trees for us to clean up.

We also worked a tremendous winter storm that knocked trees down all over our city.

We cleaned about 70 percent of Wadleigh Creek behind Super 1 Foods which had not been done in over 15 years.

The street dept. also helped fire station 3 with concrete removal and dirt removal. We also tore down 22 houses from this time last year until now.

Sanitation Department - 17 employees
The sanitation Dept has completed over 464 special pickups which includes, brush, trash or house hold furniture. Total tonnage for class 4 is 61,000 tons which is mostly construction debris. Our storm debris which is located beside the dog pound totals around 44,000 tons.

We hauled 196 loads to Smackover. For those that don't know, all of the trash we collect is hauled to Smackover daily.

Construction has begun on installation of 2 1,500-gallon tanks in the ground as a means of maintaining the leachate problem that exist behind the transfer station. Leachate water is defined as any contaminated water percolating through a solid waste disposal site. We have started the transfer of our straw and leaf pile due to them being overloaded.

Parks Department - 8 employees
We cut grass at River Front, Sandy beach, The Trace, Greenwood cemetery, Tech Center on Adams, Shop on Progress, Madison Street Park, Cotton belt loop, Newspaper Hill, Stenson Park, Fort Southerland, Wesley Park. Carnes Park, Ida B. More park. Assisted with getting Boys Club up and running.

Got the pool operations up and running on time. We have cut 15-20 trees in Carnes Park that were dead and dangerous to the public. We have cut several thousand acres of grass. We have assisted with parades and First Friday events.

Central Garage
 We have changed oil in over 55 vehicles. Serviced every automobile in our fleet. We have serviced every piece of heavy equipment that we own. We have purchased with the help of the council. A 2023 Residential trash truck, 2020 long haul truck, 2023 knuckle boom, 2023 dump truck, 2023 front end loader. 2 light duty trucks, 2023 utility trailer, 2 zero turn mowers, 1 side by side.

General Maintenance
Repaired or installed 50 signs. Reset stop lights at every intersection in the city multiple times. Painted lines on Cash rd. Repaired Chlorine system at the pool. Repaired multiple leaks at the pool. Installed new hoist at the welding shop. Repaired dumpsters at Taco Bell, Popeyes, and the Middle School. Repaired leaks on the trace. Painted the offices at the Municipal Building. Installing septic tanks at Sanitation

The entire team helped out when we had trash trucks down. The entire team helps during certain storms.

Director Franklin also reported that the Carnes Park Pool will be open Sunday and Monday for the Juneteenth Celebration. Sunday and Monday are usually the days the pool is closed.

Police Chief Boyd Woody discussed raises for the Camden Police Department. El For ado is advertising 12% raises for Police Officers and are actively recruiting Camden Officers. Chief Woody says Camden's force is down 25%. Chief Woody is asking for the help of the Council to rectify the problem with Officer retention. Alderman Gulley asked that pay of all city employees be addressed sting that she had been asking for Public Works to get raises since the beginning of the year and to be fair, all City Employees pay scales should be looked at. There will be a workshop to discuss the matter at a later date.

Mayor Young said that Fire Chief has been hired. Jeremy Covington has been named as Fire Chief. There was some discussion among the Aldermen regarding nepotism as Covington’s brother is a Fire Fighter. The Mayor as well as Chief Covington explained that it had been discussed in the hiring process and it was decided that it would not be a problem. After a long discussion it has been decided that Attorney Fry will look at the legalities of the nepotism issue and bring a report back to the Council.

Employee of the month this month is Lance Teague. Mayor Young presented Captain Teague of the Camden Fire Department with a plaque and gift card.

There was no old business, so the Council moved on to new business. Resolution No. 40-23, a resolution amending the Operating Budget for 2023; and for other purposes. Motion was made and seconded. This was for Airport Improvements. Alderman Gulley questioned the line item was $48,500 but the resolution was for $80,000. $48,500 was budgeted.  The remaining $39,500 will come from the reserve. Resolution was amended to reflect the proper numbers. The Airport Commission has their own money, but expenditures must be approved by the Council. The resolution passed by unanimous vote.

Resolution No. 41-23, a resolution authorizing the Mayor to enter into an agreement for the Watershed Flood Prevention Operation Program. Motion was made and seconded. A discussion ensued regarding who would oversee the project. It was discussed in a workshop earlier this month that Mayor Young and Alderman Gulley and Assistant to the Mayor Jennifer Horn will watch over the work and be point of contact for the project. Motion was made and seconded. Motion passed with all Aldermen voting yes with the exception of Alderman Aregood who voted no.  The discussion returned to the original Resolution. Alderman Lindsey pointed out that there is a list of about 30 items the city will be responsible for. The council was told in the workshop that many of the items on the list would not be the responsibility of the city. What the council was told verbally and what is in the document are conflicting. Because of the list of the City’s responsibilities Aldermen Lindsey, Winters and Aregood voted no. Aldermen Askew, Moore, Gulley and Askew voted yes. The Resolution required 5 votes to pass so the Mayor voted yes and the resolution passed.

There was discussion regarding several things in the “Other Business” portion of the meeting. There is some concern with the way the group operating the Concession stand at the Pool was selected.

There was another resolution that was to be introduced by Alderman Aregood on the agenda that would have limited Councilmen’s remarks to 5 minutes. Alderman Gulley asked Aregood if it was pulled because Alderman Castleberry was absent. Alderman Aregood explained that he pulled it from the agenda as he wanted it “tweeked” before moving forward with it.

The Council revisited the issues of City Employees working on the Ball Fields at the Ouachita County Recreational Center. Attorney’s for the City and OCRC are working on the wording for the city to take back over the Ball Park but it takes time to get details hammered out. Alderman McCoy stated that he is on the School Board and that the agreement will have to meet with School Board approval before they will sign off on the City taking the control of the Ball Park. Alderman Gulley asked if OCRC had re-imbursed the city for the work that was done. The answer was no. Public Works Director Kevin Franklin was asked how many hours had been spent working on the fields. He could not provide the number of total hours but stated that they had done a lot of work to get the fields ready for ball season. After the meeting, Mayor Young was asked about a baseball tournament coming up in July at the facility. She said that yes, there will be a tournament in July that will bring somewhere in the neighborhood of 1000 people to Camden for 5 days. This will provide an economic boost to the City in that all the visitors will be staying, eating and shopping in Camden while they are here.

The issue of the $300,000 grant money that was to begin work on “Teen Town” turned back was discussed again. It was again explained that by turning the grant back, the City can start the process to re-apply in August for a larger amount of money so more improvements can be made to the building. If the original grant money had been accepted, the City would not have been able to re-apply for 2 years.

The meeting was adjourned at 10:27 PM.

 

CADC ANNOUNCES 2023 SUMMER LIHEAP UTILITY ASSISTANCE START DATE
Benton, AR - JUNE 2023 - Central Arkansas Development Council (CADC) announced today the 2023 Summer Utility Assistance program will begin the week of Monday, July 10, 2023, and continue as long as funds are available. This program will assist with paying all fuels throughout the Summer program. Crisis assistance will also be available.

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps keep families safe and healthy through initiatives that assist families with energy costs. We provide federally funded assistance in managing costs associated with home energy bills and energy crises.

LIHEAP can help you stay cool in the summer through programs that reduce the risk of health and safety problems that arise from unsafe cooling practices.

CADC operates the LIHEAP program in the following counties in Arkansas;

Calhoun, Clark, Columbia, Dallas, Hempstead, Hot Spring, Howard, Lafayette, Little River, Lonoke, Miller, Montgomery, Nevada, Ouachita, Pike, Pulaski, Saline, Sevier and Union.

For more information about CADC’s Utility Assistance Program visit:

https://www.cadc.com/utility-assistance

CADC is a non-profit Community Action Agency, an equal opportunity employer and a United Way Agency. The mission of CADC is to alleviate the causes and conditions of poverty, to help vulnerable populations achieve their potential and to build strong communities in Arkansas through community action.
 

GOVERNOR SANDERS DECLARES JUNE 11-17 AS ARKANSAS FARMERS MARKET WEEK
LITTLE ROCK – Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders has proclaimed June 11-17 as Arkansas Farmers Market Week to highlight the important benefits that farmers markets provide to Arkansas’s agricultural producers, consumers, and communities.

“Farmers markets play an important role in connecting producers to consumers while developing local food systems and supporting the economy of our rural communities,” said Wes Ward, Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture. “We are proud to have more than 112 farmers markets in Arkansas, and we appreciate the opportunity to celebrate the value they provide to Arkansas agriculture during this farmers market season.”

On June 9, the Arkansas Department of Agriculture (Department) joined industry partners at an event dedicated to celebrating Arkansas farmers markets. Cynthia Edwards, Deputy Secretary of Agriculture, was joined by Arkansas Farmers Market Association/Arkansas Coalition for Obesity Prevention (ArCOP) President Katrina Betancourt; Steve Powell, ArCOP Health Outreach Coordinator; Mark Nelson, Oak Forest Community Garden Manager; and other farmers market managers, partners, leaders, stakeholders, and community members at Oak Forest Community Garden in Little Rock. Photos from the event can be found at flic.kr/s/aHBqjAHaCT.

ASP REMOVES 146 LBS OF COCAINE FROM STREETS 
June 13, 2023
During a traffic stop Monday, June 12, 2023, on Interstate 40, Arkansas State Police seized approximately 146 pounds of cocaine. The street value of the illegal drugs is estimated to be over $6.5 million.

“Anyone thinking about transporting illegal drugs on Arkansas interstates should think twice,” said ASP Col. Mike Hagar. 

Two suspects were taken into custody and will be charged accordingly after Troopers stopped a truck hauling a track hoe at around 8:20 p.m. on I-40 near Lonoke. During a search, Troopers seized 146 pounds or 66 kilograms of cocaine.

ENTERGY ARKANSAS AWARDS POLYETHYLENE CONTAINERS, INC. NEARLY $1 MILLION IN INCENTIVES
Decrease your electricity usage by implementing energy efficiency practices
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Entergy Arkansas recently awarded Polyethylene Containers, Inc. with $969,505.71 in incentives as part of its Large Commercial & Industrial Program through Entergy Solutions, a program which provides technical and financial support to help customers identify and implement projects that reduce energy use. The Large Commercial & Industrial Program is offered to commercial or industrial customers with a valid Entergy Arkansas account and at least 100kW in cumulative peak demand for any given billing period over the past 12 months.

“We’ve worked extensively with Entergy Arkansas for the past five years identifying and executing improvement and replacement projects,” said Walter Tyson, Polyethylene Containers, Inc. Chairman and CEO. “Thanks to Energy Arkansas’s support, both technical and financial, we were able to complete twelve projects at our El Dorado facilities. Not only did these projects result in energy savings, but they also increased productivity and reliability at our facilities.”

The energy efficiency projects recently completed at Polyethylene Containers, Inc. included retrofitting lighting, fixing compressed air leaks, and replacing a process chiller and multiple injection molding machines. As a result of these energy efficiency upgrades, Polyethylene Containers, Inc. is expected to save approximately 10 million kWh annually, which is the equivalent to eliminating the carbon dioxide emissions from 797,437 gallons of gasoline. However, there is more work to be done. Polyethylene Containers, Inc. expects to implement two additional energy efficiency projects that will result in approximately 4-6 million kWh annual energy savings.

Chris Wasson, Region Manager for Customer Service at Entergy Arkansas stated, “It’s exciting to see customers, such as Polyethylene Containers, Inc., take advantage of the Entergy Solutions program. Not only are they reducing their monthly electric bill, but they are also being more environmentally responsible by means of electrical efficiency.”

Entergy Arkansas has an award-winning portfolio of energy efficiency programs for both residential and business customers. To learn more about these programs, visit entergy-arkansas.com/energy_efficiency.

About Polyethylene Containers, Inc.
Polyethylene Containers, Inc. is a veteran-owned business and proud member of the Independent Lubricant Manufacturers Association. For more than 40 years, Polyethylene Containers, Inc. has provided high-quality pails, drums, feeders and other rigid containers to virtually every type of industry. Their advanced engineering, design and manufacturing ensures that customers get containers built with exceptional durability. Due to increased demand, Polyethylene Containers, Inc. recently expanded their facilities to accommodate more product lines. This recent expansion brought numerous jobs to South Arkansas.

About Entergy Arkansas
Entergy Arkansas, LLC provides electricity to approximately 730,000 customers in 63 counties. Entergy Arkansas is a subsidiary of Entergy Corporation, a Fortune 500 electric company. Entergy powers life for 3 million customers through our operating companies in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas. We’re investing in the reliability and resilience of the energy system while helping our region transition to cleaner, more efficient energy solutions. With roots in our communities for more than 100 years, Entergy is a nationally recognized leader in sustainability and corporate citizenship. Since 2018, we have delivered more than $100 million in economic benefits each year to local communities through philanthropy, volunteerism and advocacy. Entergy is headquartered in New Orleans, Louisiana, and has approximately 12,000 employees.

COTTON, COLLEAGUES: EPA’S PROPOSED EMISSION STANDARDS RULE INCREASES COSTS FOR AMERICANS
Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) sent a letter to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Michael Regan detailing how the agency’s recent proposed federal emission standards will limit choices and increase costs for Americans when buying vehicles. The letter also notes that the rules would make the U.S. more dependent on China for critical minerals and asks the administrator to respond to these concerns.

Co-signing the letter are Senators Roger Marshall (R-Kansas), Markwayne Mullin (R-Oklahoma), Bill Cassidy (R-Louisiana), and Pete Ricketts (R-Nebraska).

Full text of the letter may be found below. 

 June 14, 2023
Dear Administrator Regan: 

 We write regarding the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) recent proposed rule on federal emission standards.

 On April 12th, 2023, the EPA announced a new proposed rule on federal emissions standards for light-duty vehicles, the “Multi-Pollutant Emissions Standards for Model Years 2027 and Later Light-Duty Vehicles.” The proposed rule would require nearly two-thirds of new passenger vehicles sold in the United States to be completely electric by 2033, limiting choices and increasing costs for Americans.

 At the end of 2022, the average price of an electric vehicle was $61,488 and this rule would worsen than exorbitant price tag by putting further pressure on overextended energy supply chains.

 Like many other supposedly pro-environment proposals, this rule would also enrich the People’s Republic of China at the expense of Americans. It takes a decade to receive proper permitting to mine the minerals needed for the vehicles mandated by this rule, so American automakers would be forced to rely more on China, which processes 85 percent of the world’s rare earth minerals. American companies, like Ford, are already dependent on Chinese battery technology, and this rule would exacerbate the problem. 

 Please answer the following questions as soon as possible, but in any case, no later than June 30, 2023.

 What is EPA’s plan to ensure that this rule does not make our critical mineral supply chain more dependent on Chinese producers?

 What is EPA’s plan with the Department of Energy to ensure our electric grid is stable and secure despite increased demand on the grid as a result of this rule?

 How much would this proposed rule increase costs on the average customer? What is the EPA’s plan to decrease overall cost of electric vehicles?

Sincerely,

CITY OF CAMDEN JUNETEENTH HOLIDAY SCHEDULE
The City of Camden Offices will be closed on Monday, June 19, 2023 In observance of the the Juneteenth Holiday. Sanitation will run on regular schedule.

AIRPORT COMMISSION TO MEET
The City of Camden Airport Commission Will have their regularly scheduled meeting on Friday, June 16, 2023 at 11:30 a.m. at the Airport Terminal located at 255 Airport Road, Camden, Arkansas.
 

SENATOR BOOZMAN DISCUSSES VARIOUS ISSUES CURRENTLY BEING DISCUSSED IN WASHINGTON D.C.
Radio Works recently had the chance to speak with U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) on a broad range of topics ranging from news on the latest debt ceiling deal to aerial drones and funding for improvement projects for outdoor recreation facilities managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Boozman discussed the deal reached earlier this month to raise the nation's debt ceiling and trim spending by the federal government. Boozman said he believes that all-in-all, the process to reach a deal resulted in an overall win for conservatives - especially given the political hurdles in the way.

Boozman also talked about his work on the current Farm Bill. The bill, last updated in 2018, is renewed every five years and serves as an important safety net for not just America's farmers, but also the rural areas with economies highly dependent on agriculture.

Boozman is one of the Senate leaders working to craft the next Farm Bill and discussed a few details regarding the legislation.

Boozman stressed the basic importance of agriculture to the nation and especially its rural economies. He said the Farm Bill will bolster resources for farmers while also funding additional research to provide more resistant and drought-tolerant varieties of crops.

Our wide-ranging discussion with Sen. Boozman also focused on the newly announced Drone Infrastructure Inspection Grant Act and the LAKES Act he's cosponsoring in Congress. We'll return with more on those topics in part two of our interview later this week. 

ON 75TH ANNIVERSARY OF ARMED FORCES’ PERMANENT OPENING TO WOMEN, BOOZMAN SHARES SERVICE MEMORIES OF BELLA VISTA VETERAN
WASHINGTON– On the 75^th anniversary of the signing of the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act into law allowing women to serve in the U.S. Armed Forces as permanent, regular members of all branches of the military, U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) recognized the service and sacrifice of Lora Burch in ‘Salute to Veterans,’ a series recognizing the military service of Arkansans. 

Growing up in a small town and in a military family, Lora believed the Armed Forces would provide many opportunities. At 19, she enlisted in the Navy.

“I was always an adventure seeker. That’s why I went in,” she said.

“My father was in the Army during World War II. He was in London, and he kind of resisted me going in when I got that idea, but my mother was more than happy to have me move out. She was ready to be an empty nester,” said Lora. While her father did not have fond memories of military service, she recalled a love of listening to the military march songs – specifically “Anchors Away,” the official Navy song – while growing up and truly looked up to her father and her brother-in-law for their service.

Lora went to Maryland for bootcamp and served a three-year tour processing security clearance paperwork before leaving active duty. However, she decided to re-enlist and made a request of her Iowa-based recruiter. “I said I’ll go back in if you give me the West Coast and send me to a school.” Lora was then stationed in San Diego for one year followed by an assignment at Lowry Air Force Base in Denver, Colorado where she received training as an Intelligence Specialist. “I was one of the first women that went through that school. They had just opened it up to women.”

Lora’s next assignment took her to Guam. “What I did there was I would brief the pilots before they took off on a P3 that was spying on Russia off the Sea of Japan and then I would be in touch with them by phone. During the nine months only once did I get a call where they had been shot at, so I had to run down the hall and tell the real top-secret people,” she said.

Being the only woman in her detachment presented different challenges, but Lora was always eager to do things other women didn’t do including going on a rest and recuperation trip to South Korea. “I said ‘I wanna go,’ so I was the only girl on the whole flight, and they actually took me up to the front and I got to push a button and the whole plane banked and it was kind of fun,” she said.

While in Japan, Lora married a man from her hometown she met while they were both stationed in San Diego. She has fond memories of their honeymoon along the bullet train up and down Japan. After returning stateside she had her first child and decided to go into the U.S. Navy Reserves and eventually retire to be able to better support her family.

Lora used the GI Bill to earn a college degree and to pay for child care while she worked. Over the years, she worked in city government, for nonprofits and as a career counselor at Crowder College in Missouri where she received her master’s degree.

Although she faced many obstacles as a woman in the military, Lora believes the strength and skills she gained from the experience shaped her critical ways. Military life taught her the importance of speaking up for herself, which helped when she moved to a town where she didn’t know anyone at a new job. “I really had to fall back on that I think, the strength I had learned in the military,” Lora remembered.

Today, Lora calls Bella Vista home. Looking back on her own service, she believes serving in the military helps people mature and that serving others, whether in the military or in the community, has a positive impact on everyone who takes the opportunity.

“I am grateful to Lora Burch for her service to our country. As we celebrate Women Veterans Recognition Day this month, let us always remember the key role she and all women in uniform have played in protecting our freedoms and serving their country. Preserving her memories for the Veterans History Project is a great way to show our appreciation for her service,” Boozman said.

Boozman will submit Burch’s entire interview to the Veterans History Project, an initiative of the Library of Congress’s American Folklife Center to collect and retain the oral histories of our nation’s veterans.

CITY OF CAMDEN BOARD OF ALDERMEN TO MEET
The City of Camden Board of Aldermen will have their regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, June 13, 2023, at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers of the Municipal Building.

The agenda is as follows:
A. CALL TO ORDER
B. INVOCATION – Rev. Roby Compston, Pastor – Camden Bible Church, 1245 California Avenue,  Camden, AR
C. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
D. ROLL CALL
E. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
     1. Minutes of Regular Meeting, May 9, 2023
F. ACCEPTANCE OF FINANCIAL REPORT
      1.  Financial Report for May 2023            
G. AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION
H.  MAYOR’S REPORT
     1.   Discussion on raises for Camden Police Department - Boyd Woody, Police Chief     
 I. OLD BUSINESS
J. NEW BUSINESS
1. Resolution No. 40-23, a resolution amending the Operating Budget for 2023; and for other purposes.
2. Resolution No. 42-23, a resolution amending Resolution No. 01-23 and adopting procedural rules.
K. Other Business
L. Adjournment

RELEASE FROM CAMDEN CITY HALL REGARDING TEEN TOWN GRANT
Recently, the City of Camden chose to decline funding for the 2022 CDBG program and to instead pursue a much higher level of funding to make significant improvements on the building known as "Teen Town" in the Carnes Park campus. While the City did decline the amount of $300,000, our intention is to re­apply for $500,000 instead. The significant increase in funds would allow the City to make far greater improvements to the facility.

It is no secret that construction costs have greatly increased in the last few years. In order to make a

significant upgrade to the Teen Town facility, we need a substantial amount of funding to do so in today's dollars. Multiple offices within the City government were consulted in this decision and after careful

review and consideration, it was unanimous that the current grant of $300,000 was not in the City's best interest and that we should pursue $500,000 instead.

If the City were to accept the $300,000 grant, we would not be eligible to request any additional funding for the next two years. We are eligible to seek the $500,000 instead in August. Additionally, only one

contractor bid on this project and in the interest of fairness and cost savings, multiple bids should have been obtained. When the City reviewed the actual scope of work that was to be performed, it became very apparent that the amount of work for $300,000 would not be in the best interest of the taxpayers. Furthermore, the architect went over the grant amount by $40,000 -before construction and only addressing the roof and bathrooms. The City would have had to supply those additional funds.

"We understand the importance of grant funding for our City," said Mayor Charlotte Young. "But we have decided that this particular grant amount is not in the best interest of the City or Carnes Park as it stops us from pursuing far greater funding in the near term. If we have the ability to request and possibly

receive $500,000 instead of $300,000, why would we not pursue the much higher funding amount? This would allow a significantly greater amount of work to be done on the Teen Town facility. Our parks are in great need of improvements, and they are a personal priority for me. We simply believe our citizens deserve more than "that's better than nothing" when so much more is possible. Camden's families deserve clean, safe, and updated parks."

The City of Camden remains dedicated to its mission of United Camden for All and continues to provide valuable support and resources to the community it serves. The organization will continue to evaluate its programs and projects to ensure that they remain aligned with its goals and objectives.
 

ASP REMOVES $2 MILLION WORTH OF FENTANYL FROM THE STREETS 
June 9, 2023
During a routine traffic stop Monday on Interstate 40, Arkansas State Police seized approximately 50,000 Fentanyl pills and a firearm.  The street value of the illegally manufactured drugs is estimated to be over $2 million.

“There’s no telling how many lives were saved by taking such a massive quantity of this deadly substance out of circulation,” said ASP Col. Mike Hagar. “We’re so proud of our Troopers for the courageous and important work they’re doing every day to protect Arkansans.”

The driver and a passenger were taken into custody after a Trooper stopped the vehicle at around 8 a.m. for an improper lane change between Protho Junction and the I-440 interchange. During a search of the vehicle, the Trooper seized 11.83 pounds or 5 kilograms of Fentanyl.

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine. 

Even in small doses, it can be deadly. One kilo of Fentanyl has the potential to kill 500,000 people.

Even 2 milligrams of Fentanyl can be lethal, depending on a person’s body size, tolerance and past usage. 

STATE CAPITOL WEEK IN REVIEW FROM SENATOR MATT STONE
June 9, 2023
LITTLE ROCK – The Arkansas Human Services Department has officially petitioned the federal government for authority to make changes in the Medicaid expansion program.

The program is known as ARHOME and provides health coverage to about 312,000 Arkansas residents. The state has to first get approval from the federal government before making significant changes, because the state provides 10 percent of the funding and the federal government provides 90 percent.

People are eligible for ARHOME if their income is less than 138 percent of the federal poverty level. This year, the poverty level is $30,000 for a family of four and $14,580 for an individual.

Arkansas Medicaid officials are seeking authority to focus on the most poor of the ARHOME recipients, the people whose income is only 20 percent of the poverty level. The Department will assign them a “success coach” if they are not on track toward meeting certain requirements of the ARHOME program.

Success coaches will develop an individual plan to help them meet their health-related needs. If they still do not engage in taking care of their lives and their health, after three months they will be moved from ARHOME to the traditional Medicaid program. There is an incentive to take advantage of the opportunities made available through the success coach because many people consider ARHOME care to be better than traditional Medicaid.

In the ARHOME program, the government buys private health insurance for the recipient. Under traditional Medicaid, the government reimburses physicians, hospitals and pharmacies for treating Medicaid patients.

Some physicians don’t accept Medicaid patients because the reimbursement rates are less than they get from private health insurance companies.

Another change sought by state officials is in how to gauge whether or not recipients are complying with requirements to work, volunteer or continue their education. State officials say the goal is to simplify the process so that recipients don’t have to fill out paperwork to prove that they spent the required amount of time looking for work or attending class.

Instead, ARHOME officials will rely on computer data to track whether recipients are working toward self-reliance. For example, if they have taxable income it can be assumed that they have a job. The amount of income will indicate whether they work part-time or full-time.

If they get food stamps, it’s assumed they’re complying with work requirements and if they’re enrolled in adult education, it’s presumed they are taking classes. If they live with someone who has a disability, or with a dependent child or an elderly person, it is presumed that they are caregivers.

ARHOME puts a special focus on helping the most vulnerable, such as residents of rural areas with mental health problems, veterans, young people who have been incarcerated or who have lived in foster homes and pregnant women.

The Human Services Department will train 100 existing employees to be success coaches, and another ten employees to be supervisors.

More than 1.1 million Arkansas residents qualified for Medicaid services earlier this year, but state officials are trying to lower than number by requiring them to re-apply for eligibility.

This fiscal year the program will cost an estimated $9.7 billion, with the federal government paying $7.8 billion and Arkansas providing almost $1.9 billion in matching funds.

OUACHITA COUNTY JUNETEENTH HOLIDAY SCHEDULE
The Ouachita County Courthouse and the Ouachita County Extension Office will be closed Monday June 19th for the Juneteenth Holiday.

The Ouachita County Sanitation Department will run on regular schedule.

 

ENTERGY ARKANSAS CREWS HELP MAKE NEIGHBORHOODS SHINE BRIGHTER FOR CUSTOMERS AS PART OF TORNADO RESTORATION EFFORTS
More than 300 LED installations currently underway in devastated areas
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Entergy Arkansas has been working with the City of Little Rock to illuminate dark areas and add energy efficient LED street lighting as part of their efforts to “Build Back Stronger” following the March 31 tornado.

Residents in the Walnut Valley community and other areas hardest hit by the tornado will see brand new poles and lights in their community, as the restoration process has allowed Entergy Arkansas to simultaneously make improvements as they rebuild. Adequate streetlighting is important to customers, and the new LED streetlights will provide enhanced lighting for neighborhood residents by shining brighter, lasting longer and being more energy efficient.

New lights had to be ordered and debris had to be cleared before the work to replace the streetlights could begin. Crews are scheduling work by neighborhood, with a goal of having all lights replaced by early August. Entergy Arkansas has been regularly coordinating with city officials about debris removal and the lighting progress.

“We currently have around 300 lighting poles to install and more than 600 streetlights we are replacing,” said Chris Cook, manager for customer service at Entergy Arkansas. “The last several months have been a dark time for our customers who suffered damages from the tornado and we hope these new installations will help make things a little brighter for them.”

Replacement poles and streetlights have already been installed along North Shackelford to ensure the main travel routes in the community are well covered. Regional crews are working each day on completing these installations throughout damaged neighborhoods in the area.

Residents displaced by the tornado should contact Entergy Arkansas as repairs are made and homes are rebuilt. Once service to the home has been reestablished, private lighting repairs and replacements will be made promptly.

“Power must be safely restored to homes in the area before any new poles or lights can be installed,” Cook said. “Customers with Entergy Arkansas lights installed on their private property that have not been repaired should contact us to let us know there is an outage we may not be aware of.”

Customers who have questions or concerns regarding outdoor lighting or any restoration efforts on their street should call 1-800-ENTERGY and speak to a customer service representative.

About Entergy Arkansas
Entergy Arkansas, LLC provides electricity to approximately 730,000 customers in 63 counties. Entergy Arkansas is a subsidiary of Entergy Corporation, a Fortune 500 electric company. Entergy powers life for 3 million customers through our operating companies in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas. We’re investing in the reliability and resilience of the energy system while helping our region transition to cleaner, more efficient energy solutions. With roots in our communities for more than 100 years, Entergy is a nationally recognized leader in sustainability and corporate citizenship. Since 2018, we have delivered more than $100 million in economic benefits each year to local communities through philanthropy, volunteerism and advocacy. Entergy is headquartered in New Orleans, Louisiana, and has approximately 12,000 employees.

 

BOOZMAN, ROSEN, BLUMENTHAL INTRODUCE BIPARTISAN BILL TO GROW USE OF DRONE TECHNOLOGY FOR INFRASTRUCTURE INSPECTIONS
Legislation Would Also Invest in Workforce Development for New Drone Technology Jobs
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR), Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) introduced the Drone Infrastructure Inspection Grant (DIIG) Act to help utilize drone technology to inspect critical infrastructure. This bipartisan bill would authorize $100 million in competitive grants to help local governments fund more opportunities to use American-made drones in critical infrastructure inspections, maintenance or construction projects.

“There’s no reason not to utilize drone technology that’s produced right here in America to more efficiently and effectively assess the safety of our bridges, railways and other infrastructure,” said Boozman. “In Arkansas, we’ve seen the numerous benefits they offer – from precision agriculture to law enforcement missions and enhancing manual inspections – but we’re also at the forefront of guarding against reliance on foreign-based manufacturers to supply unmanned aircraft systems. Our bipartisan bill helps expand this vision nationwide and invests in educational opportunities necessary to create more skilled operators and technicians.”

“As we implement the historic investments to update our nation’s infrastructure, we must use the latest technology to identify structures that need to be fixed,” said Rosen. “This bipartisan legislation I’m introducing will help local governments invest in drones to better inspect their infrastructure for safety and reliability, while preparing our workforce for jobs of the future.”

“These grants are an important investment to ensure state and local inspection officials have the resources they need to keep our infrastructure and communities safe,” said Blumenthal. “Drone technology can be a valuable tool to help us modernize our roads and bridges. The next generation of highly-trained workers are key to a sustainable, world-class transportation network.”

Drones have been used to help inspect infrastructure projects and prevent catastrophes. In 2021, drone footage helped reveal a severe crack in the I-40 bridge connecting Arkansas and Tennessee, which carries an estimated 40,000 vehicles across the Mississippi River every day.

“Drones are being relied on as indispensable tools for critical operations, including infrastructure inspections – and that role will only continue to grow as the technology advances further. The future of aviation leadership is in autonomy, and the United States must invest in supporting the drone industry and growing workforce. This bill accomplishes both goals by providing states with grants to funding to acquire and utilize secure drones for infrastructure inspection and to train the workforce to conduct these critical missions," said Michael Robbins, Chief Advocacy Officer at the Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI). “The U.S. cannot afford to fall behind in the drone industry’s ability to attract capital, investment, and workforce. Congress should pass this commonsense legislation to help level the playing field for the U.S. drone industry and to encourage the infrastructure and workforce benefits the DIIG Act would bring to communities nationwide.”

This legislation would also enable research universities to access grants for programs geared toward training the next generation of workers who operate drones.

SENATORS COTTON, KELLY, VANCE INTRODUCE BIPARTISAN BILL TO BOOST DOMESTIC MANUFACTURING AND STRENGTHEN SUPPLY CHAINS 
Washington, D.C. — Senators Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas), Mark Kelly (D-Arizona), and J.D. Vance (R-Ohio) today introduced the ONSHORE Act, bipartisan legislation that will help bring critical supply chains back to America by assisting communities of all sizes with the site development needed to attract manufacturing facilities.

The U.S. faces a shortage of shovel-ready sites with the necessary infrastructure and workforce for companies to quickly begin construction on new manufacturing facilities. The ONSHORE Act creates a Critical Supply Chain Site Development Grant Program within the Economic Development Administration, which would assist communities, including small towns and tribal communities, with site development to attract manufactures from critical industries to build new facilities in their area.

“We cannot rely on other countries like China for our essential technologies. The technologies of tomorrow should be tested, researched, and made in America. This legislation will help make the necessary investments in our communities to make that possible,” said Senator Cotton.

“As we work to bring manufacturing supply chains for critical industries from microchips to critical minerals back to America, we have to maximize this opportunity by making sure there are enough sites with the infrastructure and workforce needed for new facilities. For a lot of small towns and tribal communities, the biggest barrier to attracting investment is the cost of getting sites ready for development. We’re working to fix that, which will boost manufacturing and create good-paying jobs in every corner of our states and the country,” said Senator Kelly.

“As our nation takes the necessary steps to reshore critical supply chains and spur innovation, everyone in America should reap the rewards. This bill would deploy capital broadly to ensure the foundations of tomorrow’s industry and growth are laid in underdeveloped regions. If enacted, it will deliver good-paying jobs, build vibrant communities, and strengthen supply chains—in Ohio and around the country,” said Senator Vance.

Background:  
Disinvestment in manufacturing and offshoring of industrial capabilities has left the U.S. vulnerable to supply chain shocks. Strengthening domestic manufacturing capabilities, especially for industries of the future, is critical for economic and national security. As companies rebuild their supply chains, there is a significant opportunity to revive the industrial base of regions throughout the country. 

A primary factor affecting where a new manufacturing facility is built is whether a site has the basic infrastructure (like road access or water and power utility hookups) and workforce to enable a company to quickly begin construction on a facility and hire enough qualified talent to begin operations. The U.S. shortage of shovel-ready sites jeopardizes opportunities to boost domestic manufacturing and build resilient supply chains.

The EDA’s Critical Supply Chain Site Development Grant Program would support site and utility readiness, workforce development, distribution, and logistics, to prepare strategic and regionally impactful sites for new industrial investment, including in rural and tribal communities, and regions with high unemployment. This dedicated funding would enable the U.S. to prepare sites where companies can rapidly scale to begin construction of new domestic manufacturing facilities, better positioning the U.S. to compete against adversaries like China.  

ARKANSAS STATE POLICE RETURN TO RANGER BADGES 
June 6, 2023
Thanks to a generous contribution from the Arkansas State Police Foundation Board, our Troopers are once again proudly wearing the original Arkansas State Police Rangers badge. The first Arkansas Rangers were 13 men hired in 1935.

"We are committed to embracing our heritage and getting back to being the Big Hat Law," said ASP Colonel Mike Hagar. 

In 1935, Governor Junius Marion Futrell tasked the newly impaneled Arkansas State Police Commission to hire the first Rangers, saying, “They should be gentlemen, incorruptible, highly intelligent, good judge of human nature, self-possessed, good listener, not too talkative, independent by environment and nature …” 

Today, Col. Hagar and his command staff are committed to remaining true to Ranger values by staying focused on the ASP’s modern mission: Protecting the lives and property of Arkansans through law enforcement services.
 

HANNAH PREGNANCY RESOURCE CENTER ONLINE AUCTION FUNDRAISER TO SUPPORT THE HANNAH PREGNANCY RESOURCE CENTER
What: “Christmas in July!” Online Auction
When:  Wednesday, July 12th @ 8:00AM through Sunday, July 16h @ 8:00PM!
Where:  www.hannahprc.com
Who:  Hosted by Hannah Pregnancy Resource Center

It’s not too early to start shopping for Christmas! Wednesday, July 12th beginning at 8 AM, the Hannah Pregnancy Resource Center will host its 9th annual online auction fundraiser.

The nonprofit center offers a variety of free services to those who find themselves facing an unplanned pregnancy.  Services include free pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, parenting classes, abstinence education, material needs, post abortive counseling, and other resources. Since 2000, the pregnancy center has served countless women and their families in need of help. Supporting this organization by participating in the auction will help them continue meeting a great need in Columbia, Ouachita and Union Counties.

This online event will have many items for auction. Local businesses have donated items and services in order to partner with the center as a way to serve their community. From home décor, to car detailing, to socket sets, to gift certificates to local restaurants and retailers, there is sure to be something for everyone.

The auction will run for 5 days and can be accessed this Wednesday, July 12th at 8 AM through the Hannah PRC website: www.hannahprc.com. Click on the “Hannah Auction” banner. The auction will close at 8PM on Sunday, July 16th.   If you would like to know more, please call the Hannah Pregnancy Resource Center office at 870-862-1317. 

Shop and support a worthy cause!

I-55 MISSISSIPPI RIVER BRIDGE CLOSURE - I-55 AND CRUMP INTERCHANGE WORK CONTINUES
The Arkansas Department of Transportation is releasing the following information from the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) to make drivers aware of bridge work that is scheduled to begin Friday, June 9. 

MEMPHIS, Tennessee – The Tennessee Department of Transportation contract crews will be closing the I-55 Mississippi River Bridge to continue construction activities on the I-55 and Crump interchange. Activities include setting beams for the new Wisconsin Bridge, construction of a cross-over at the east end of the I-55 bridge, and repair work on the I-55 bridge. All work is weather dependent.

Friday, June 9 from 8:00 pm until Monday, June 12 at 6:00 am
I-55 SB will be closed at Bridgeport Road in Arkansas
I-55 NB will be closed at South Parkway* in Tennessee
*Local traffic will be allowed to continue to the McLemore exit

I-55 SB ramp will be closed
Crump Boulevard WB will be closed**
**Local traffic only at South Third Street / will have to exit at Metal Museum Drive

Crump Boulevard EB from Alston will be open
Crump Boulevard WB ramp to Riverside Drive NB will be closed
Riverside Drive NB will be closed
Metal Museum Drive to I-55 NB will be closed
A detour will be posted.

Beginning Monday, June 12 at 6:00 am the below will describe the new traffic patterns.
I-55 SB outside lane will be closed from the west end of the I-55 bridge through the project site and the SB inside lane will cross over at the east end of the I-55 bridge and share the current I-55 NB cloverleaf ramp with I-55 NB
I-55 NB outside lane of the cloverleaf ramp will be closed to allow for I-55 SB use
Crump Boulevard WB will be closed (local traffic only beyond South Third Street)***

 

COTTON, COLLEAGUES: INSPECTOR GENERAL SHOULD INVESTIGATE COLIN KAHL
Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) and nine of his colleagues sent a letter to the Department of Defense Inspector General referring Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Colin Kahl for investigation. The letter describes how Under Secretary Kahl, after the Chinese surveillance balloon was publicly revealed, provided members of the media classified information about previous Chinese surveillance balloons.

Co-signers of the letter include Senators Ted Budd (R-North Carolina), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Bill Hagerty (R-Tennessee), James Lankford (R-Oklahoma), Roger Marshall (R-Kansas), Eric Schmitt (R-Missouri), Rick Scott (R-Florida), Thom Tillis (R-North Carolina), and Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi).

In part, the senators wrote:
“This is not the first time that Under Secretary Kahl has mishandled classified information. Worse, Under Secretary Kahl’s leak, like his previous leaks, appears to have been made for partisan political purposes. Given Under Secretary Kahl’s repeated and blatant mishandling of classified information for political purposes, we urge you to investigate this conduct.”

Text of the letter may be found below.

June 6, 2023

The Honorable Robert Storch
United States Department of Defense
Office of the Inspector General
4800 Mark Center Drive
Alexandria, VA 22350

Dear Inspector General Storch:

We write regarding the intentional leak of classified national defense information by Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Colin Kahl. It has come to our attention that, soon after the Chinese surveillance balloon was publicly revealed earlier this year, Under Secretary Kahl provided reporters with classified information regarding prior Chinese surveillance balloons. The selective leak falsely portrayed prior incursions as similar incidents and suggested that the previous administration was similarly ineffective in responding to known surveillance threats. In fact, it was later revealed that the prior incursions were not discovered at the time and leaders of the previous administration did not have an opportunity to respond to the threat. Nonetheless, Under Secretary Kahl’s leak appears intended to distract from the Biden administration’s own conduct by attacking political opponents. To date, we have received no indication that the materials leaked by Under Secretary Kahl were first declassified through the proper channels.

Intentionally leaking classified information is a violation of U.S. law, as well as a violation of the Classified Information Nondisclosure Agreement (SF-312) that Kahl signed. That agreement expressly contemplates the termination of a security clearance as a consequence of mishandling sensitive materials. Further, federal law provides serious penalties for intentionally mishandling classified information. For example, 18 U.S.C. § 793(d) provides for up to ten years in prison for willful unauthorized disclosure. Finally, other federal laws such as the Hatch Act also prohibit the use of one’s official position in the executive branch for partisan political purposes.

This is not the first time that Under Secretary Kahl has mishandled classified information. Worse, Under Secretary Kahl’s leak, like his previous leaks, appears to have been made for partisan political purposes. Given Under Secretary Kahl’s repeated and blatant mishandling of classified information for political purposes, we urge you to investigate this conduct.

Thank you for your prompt attention to this important matter.

Sincerely,

DEADLINE FOR ARKANSAS ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIP APPROACHING
July 1 is the deadline to apply for the Arkansas Academic Scholarship for students planning to enroll in a two- or four-year college or university in the fall. Applicants can be new high school graduates, students already enrolled in college and older, non-traditional students wanting to further their education. To apply, simply visit sams.adhe.edu and click on “Students.”

The Arkansas Academic Scholarship is just one of several scholarships funded through the state’s lottery program. Ashley McNatt, Advertising and Marketing Director for the Arkansas Scholarship Lottery (ASL), said the program has helped raise more than $1.2 billion in scholarship monies since the first ticket was sold in 2009. Hundreds of thousands of Arkansas students have benefited from this financial aid.

McNatt stressed that Arkansas lottery-funded scholarships are open to just about every Arkansan – from the high school graduate and current college student, to an older adult seeking to enroll in college for the first time.

To be eligible for the scholarship, a student must be an Arkansas resident for at least 12 months prior to enrollment and receive at least a 19 on the ACT. To maintain eligibility, students must keep a 2.5 GPA.

The lottery also helps fund three other scholarships:
-The Arkansas Workforce Challenge Scholarship, available for those attending technical schools.
-The Arkansas Concurrent Challenge Award, which provides financial incentives to eligible high school students who want to get an early start on college courses.
-And, new this year, the Arkansas Legislature created the Arkansas Challenge Plus Scholarship. This scholarship provides additional funding for students already receiving the Arkansas Academic Scholarship, but who face greater income barriers. Students can begin applying for this scholarship in the fall of 2024.

McNatt said Arkansans should be proud to know lottery sales have contributed to the investment in so many young people’s educations.

 Again, for more information on the Arkansas Scholarship Lottery, visit sams.adhe.edu. The deadline to apply is July 1. 

NICOLE MCADAMS TO OFFER "INNER GLOW" CORKS AND CANVAS AT SAAC
Kick back and relax as you join us at the South Arkansas Arts Center where Nicole McAdams, local artist as well as art teacher at both the SAAC Arts Academy and at Yocum Elementary, will lead the June Corks and Canvas art class!  This month’s Corks and Canvas class "Inner Glow" will be held on Thursday, June 15 from 6-9pm. This will be a fun-filled night of painting that is designed for people who have always wanted to try their hand at art and also have some fun along the way.  

Our artist this month has chosen an acrylic neon-paint project where you will paint mandalas. Mandalas are generally created as a form of meditation. During this Corks and Canvas class, participants will create their own mandalas in a serene environment by exploring layers of organic and geometric shapes. For a fun twist, we will use neon paints and blacklights as we discover the inner layers of our own creativity.  McAdams said, "Mandalas are a fun project for me because no matter your artistic ability you can create an interesting mandala. The process of creating mandalas is peaceful, relaxing and doesn't require much thought which is often how I love to create art."

No experience is needed. Paints, brushes, and all the supplies are provided, and SAAC will also be providing snacks.  Participants are welcome to bring their own drink of choice.

 

WESTERMAN STATEMENT ON PASSAGE OF THE FISCAL ACT
WASHINGTON - Today, the U.S. House voted to pass H.R. 3746, The Fiscal Responsibility Act, which responsibly raises the debt ceiling and cuts federal spending. Congressman Bruce Westerman released the following statement: 

“It is a win for conservatives, and I was happy to vote in support. I reviewed every section of this bill, and if you do the same, you'll see that conservative ideas came out on top in every section. It cuts federal spending below the current levels for next year and sets us on a better fiscal trajectory. The Fiscal Responsibility Act is our nation's largest deficit reduction bill in history.

“Let’s remember what it took to get us to this point. For 100 days, President Biden refused to negotiate, and Senate Democrats were missing in action, but House Republicans didn't sit around. We passed a bold, sensible debt ceiling solution that forced President Biden to come to the table, and then we negotiated a plan that will take a big step in getting our nation back on the right fiscal track. Many Republican priorities were included in the Fiscal Responsibility Act, including permitting provisions to streamline critical energy and infrastructure projects, something I worked closely with my friends Speaker Kevin McCarthy and Rep. Garret Graves to ensure made it across the finish line. Permitting reform can save taxpayers trillions of dollars on public infrastructure alone, not to mention the positive impacts it will have on U.S. energy production, mining, American jobs, and national security.

“The Fiscal Responsibility Act is not the end of the road, it’s another step forward in reforming Washington's out-of-control spending habits. There's still a lot of work to do. I look forward to working with my colleagues on each of the twelve appropriations bills to continue making fiscally responsible decisions for the American people, and I hope we can work together to tackle the critical issue of uncontrolled mandatory spending increases.”

Click here for the full bill text.
Click here for a section-by-section. 
Click here for a one-pager. For more on these and other stories visit www.yesradioworks.com/newsII

COTTON AMENDMENT RESTORES VITAL DEFENSE SPENDING
Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) today filed an amendment to the debt ceiling package to prevent even further cuts to critical defense spending. Specifically, the amendment would use the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023 as the baseline for sequester instead of the 2022 omnibus spending bill. Unless the amendment is adopted, a sequester would slash defense spending while increasing domestic spending, empowering Democrats to demand even more domestic spending to avoid devastating cuts to defense. 

Amendment text may be found here.

LOCKHEED MARTIN’S CAMDEN OPERATIONS HOSTS SIGNING DAY FOR LOCAL HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES
CAMDEN, Ark., May 30, 2023 – Lockheed Martin’s Camden Operations facility will welcome more than a dozen local high school graduates to its highly skilled workforce this month. A signing event was recently hosted at the site, where graduates were recognized by Lockheed Martin senior leadership and given letters of intent for employment. 

“As the demand for our products continues to rise and our site continues to expand, it is imperative for us to continue to find new and innovative ways to build our workforce,” said Aaron Huckaby, Site Director, Lockheed Martin’s Camden Operations. “Establishing a talent pipeline into our local high schools and recruiting students who are interested in entering the workforce after graduation is a great way for us to find the talent that we need.”

Thirteen graduates were hired as assemblers through this initiative. In April, students, parents and faculty from local high schools toured the HIMARS and M270 production lines, and attended informational sessions with hiring managers and human resources. Events like these will help Lockheed Martin attract the best of the best talent to develop tailored solutions that address our customers’ current and future challenges. 

Lockheed Martin’s Camden Operations facility is a manufacturing, final assembly, test and storage operation for Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control (MFC) programs. Located in the Highland Industrial Park in Camden, it occupies a combined manufacturing and support function floor space on nearly 2 million square feet spread out over more than 2,000 acres of land. More than 1,000 employees work in the facility’s manufacturing and support buildings.

For additional information regarding career opportunities at Camden Operations, visit our website: www.lockheedmartin.com/camden-careers.

About Lockheed Martin Headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, Lockheed Martin Corporation is a global security and aerospace company that employs approximately 116,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services.

2023 SOUTHWEST ARKANSAS RURAL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CONFERENCE
Theme: “Breaking Barriers: Engaging Minds, Empowering Success”
Providing small and emerging business owners with the skills, tools, and contacts needed to create and grow their enterprises and better engage in job creation activities are the goals of an upcoming business conference to be held via Zoom, with two small on-site audiences in Magnolia and Monticello, Arkansas. Funded by the Arkansas Human Development Corporation (AHDC), Arkansas Small Business & Technology Development Center (ASBTDC), Arkansas Business Navigator program, FORGE Community Loan Fund, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), and USDA Rural Development, the 2023 Southwest Arkansas Rural Business Development Conference, with a theme of “Breaking Barriers: Engaging Minds, Empowering Success” will bring together approximately 20 private, quasi-state, state, federal, non-profit, and national organizations with a singular focus of equipping existing and aspiring entrepreneurs with the resources to start and grow their businesses.

Confirmed and/or invited partners include the Arkansas Division Of Workforce Services (ADWS), Arkansas APEX Accelerator, AHDC, ASBTDC, Southwest Arkansas Planning and Development District, U.S. Small Business Administration, and USDA, Rural Development. The conference will be held Friday, June 9, 2023, from 8:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. via Zoom and in-person. In-person participation will be limited to approximately fifty (50) at each conference site, (1) the University of Arkansas at Monticello Student Success Center, Room 102, 350 University Drive, Monticello, AR 71656, or (2) the Southwest Arkansas Planning and Development District, 101 Harvey Couch Boulevard, Magnolia, AR 71754-0767. Topics will include but are not limited to, building effective partnerships, securing capital, selling goods and services to the government, and social media for small businesses.

Join us at 8:30 a.m. for a “Breakfast with the Lenders Roundtable,” where conference participants will network with local, regional, and statewide lenders. Some lenders to be invited include Arkansas Capital Corporation Group, Bodcaw Bank, Cadence Bank, Communities Unlimited, Farmers Bank, FORGE, RMI, Inc., and USDA, RD B&I. The Lenders Roundtable will be facilitated by Mr. Christian Pennington, Lender Relations Specialist, SBA. Ms. Adriene Brown, Arkansas District Director, U.S. Small Business Administration, will be the luncheon speaker.

Don’t miss the opportunity to help your community create needed small businesses and JOBS by acquiring the resources to help your small business GROW and INNOVATE!

AN INVESTMENT OF TIME IS THE COST TO ATTEND BUT REGISTRATION IS ENCOURAGED.

You may register by calling Arkansas Human Development Corporation at (800) 482-7641, extension 0, or online for Magnolia at: https://t.ly/I6DC and online for Monticello at: https://t.ly/i-lx.

ENTERGY ARKANSAS WARNS CUSTOMERS OF SEARCH ENGINE SCAMS
Customers should only use Entergy website to find bill payment options
Little Rock, Ark. – Entergy Arkansas recognizes that many customers turn to search engines when looking for quick answers to their questions about utility services. But scammers are highly aware of these search habits, and plot ways to take advantage of customers’ trust in online resources. Entergy Arkansas customers should only depend on information from Entergy’s own sites to conduct business.

One online scam is duping customers with a website and phone number that look legitimate, but it’s actually luring customers into a trap. When customers use the incorrect phone numbers they find online to pay their bills, the bad actors make fraudulent charges. And in some instances, the scammers have also used the victim’s information to establish an account with Entergy, resulting in multiple charges to the person’s bank account.

Customers can call 1-800-ENTERGY (1-800-368-3749) to speak with an Entergy customer service representative to create an account or to inquire about their current account. Customers can also go directly to www.entergy.com for links to stop, start or move service, pay your bill, or access other account management programs.

“Unfortunately, scammers have sophisticated tactics to gain access to your personal information and can cause real harm if they are successful. We will continue to report these scams to the appropriate authorities, but we want our customers to remain vigilant,” said Ventrell Thompson, Entergy Arkansas Customer Service Vice President. “We urge customers to never share any of their personal information with anyone without first verifying the source.”

Here are some tips to help protect your personal information from scammers:

Do not use unauthorized payment methods. You should only use authorized payment options that are provided on www.myEntergy.com to make a bill payment transaction.

Never give out your banking information by email or phone. Entergy does not demand banking information by email or phone or force you to provide this information to a representative as your only option.

Don’t pay any Entergy bill with a gift card, cash reload card, wiring money or cryptocurrency. Entergy does not demand or accept gift cards like iTunes or Amazon, cash reload cards like MoneyPak, Vanilla, or Reloadit, or cryptocurrency like bitcoin.

While far less common than other scams, in-person imposters have been known to pose as utility workers and go door-to-door. In most instances, the scammers claim they need access to your property to provide repairs, offer free inspections, or to get power back on first following an outage or disconnect for an upfront payment. Entergy will contact you via phone or provide written notice if we need to access your property for any reason. Our employees will also be clearly identified with branded uniforms and badges. If you’re unsure, call Entergy to verify that a service representative should be on-site. We will also NEVER demand or accept payment at your door to reconnect your power.

Customers who believe they are a victim of a scam are encouraged to notify the proper authorities, such as the local police, the state attorney general’s office, or the Better Business Bureau. If you believe your Entergy account has been affected, you should call 1-800-ENTERGY (1-800-368-3749) to speak with a customer service representative. For more information, visit entergy.com/scams.

About Entergy Arkansas
Entergy Arkansas, LLC provides electricity to approximately 730,000 customers in 63 counties. Entergy Arkansas is a subsidiary of Entergy Corporation, a Fortune 500 electric company. Entergy powers life for 3 million customers through our operating companies in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas. We’re investing in the reliability and resilience of the energy system while helping our region transition to cleaner, more efficient energy solutions. With roots in our communities for more than 100 years, Entergy is a nationally recognized leader in sustainability and corporate citizenship. Since 2018, we have delivered more than $100 million in economic benefits each year to local communities through philanthropy, volunteerism and advocacy. Entergy is headquartered in New Orleans, Louisiana, and has approximately 12,000 employees. For the latest news from Entergy, visit the Newsroom.
 

SAAC WELCOMES NEW EXHIBIT BY LOCAL ARTIST SANDY BENNETT
The South Arkansas Arts Center is pleased to welcome SAAC veteran Sandy Bennet and her new exhibit "Through the Cracks" to the Lobby Gallery.  These works will hang June 2-30.  Sponsored by Cadence Bank, there will be an opening champagne reception on Friday, June 2 at 7:00pm.

This new exhibit is Sandy Bennett's 4th at the South Arkansas Arts Center with her last being in 2017. "Art is my therapy.  It is my everything.  It's what gets me up in the mornings and keeps me going," said Bennett.  Her first love is watercolor, but she enjoys experimenting with different techniques and media.  Bennett's art in this exhibition highlights flowering weeds using mixed media and watercolors. These weeds - the ones that come up "through the cracks" - represent strength and resilience. One of Bennett's pieces in this exhibition entitled "Tickled Pink" almost didn't make the cut.  According to Bennett, "It was a blobby mess that had been laying around for weeks…then in desperation, I mixed Chinese White watercolor with my blue which made it very opaque.  Some more darks added with colored pencil brought it to life, I think.  So…'Tickled Pink' it is!"  

Sandy Bennett grew up in Little Rock and then went to college at Henderson State University in Arkadelphia.  While there, she met and married her husband Jim and they moved to El Dorado in 1971 where they both found jobs teaching in Strong.  A little later in life when her kids were in high school, Bennett was asked to substitute for the art teacher at Parker's Chapel High School.  Bennett had never had any formal training in art at this point, so she began to study art so that she could teach the students. "I had to learn it so I could teach it," she said.  Ironically, the art teacher that she subbed for never returned, and Bennett then served as the art teacher at Parker's Chapel High School for 12 additional years.  Bennett finally retired from teaching in 2002. That's when she started painting full-time.

Bennett has served the Board of Directors for the South Arkansas Arts Center.  Additionally, she is a member of the Oil Painters of America, Arkansas Pastel Society, Arkansas League of Artists, and a Signature member of the Texas Watercolor Society. Bennett’s artwork has been juried into several national competitions and has earned a number of awards. Her work hangs in private and corporate settings.   

For more information on this exhibit, please call the SAAC office at 870-862-5474 or visit the website at www.saac-arts.org.  Gallery viewing hours are Monday-Friday 9:00-5:00pm.  SAAC is located at 110 East Fifth Street, El Dorado, Arkansas.

STATE POLICE RESPOND TO SEVERAL INCIDENTA OVER THE HOLIDAY WEEKEND
MARIANNA SHOOTING LEAVES ONE DEAD, FOUR INJURED
May 28, 2023
Marianna Police Department has asked the Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division to investigate a shooting that occurred Saturday, May 27, 2023.

At approximately 11 p.m., police responded to reports of a shooting in the parking lot of the O'Reilly Auto Parts on Chestnut Street. 

Olanda Bender, 37, of Jonesboro was transported to Forrest City Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead.  Tracy Ewans, 36, of Little Rock was transported to Forrest City Medical Center and then airlifted to UAMS Medical Center in Little Rock (UAMS). She is in critical condition. Jerome Smith, 31, of Little Rock was airlifted to the Regional One Medical Center in Memphis. His condition is unknown. Markel Ellis, 27, of Lexa was transported to Helena Regional Medical Center and then airlifted to UAMS. He is in critical condition.Jaquasia Davis, 20, of Marianna was airlifted to UAMS, where she is in critical condition.

 The deceased was transported to the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory, where manner and cause of death will be determined. The investigation is ongoing.
 

STAMPS SHOOTING LEAVES ONE DEAD, ONE INJURED
May 27, 2023
The Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division is investigating an early morning shooting in Stamps that killed an 18-year-old and left a 16-year-old seriously injured.

On Saturday, May 27, 2023, at 1:24 a.m., Lafayette County 911 received calls of gunshots at a block party on 2nd Street in Stamps. The Stamps Police Department responded and learned that two gunshot victims had been transported to the Magnolia Regional Medical Center in separate private vehicles. 

Jaquarious D. Easter, 18, of Waldo was pronounced dead. A 16-year-old from East Camden is being treated at Children's Hospital in Little Rock for injuries that are not believed to be life threatening.

Anyone with information about the shooting should contact ASP CID at (870) 777-4641.

The deceased was transported to the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory, where manner and cause of death will be determined. The investigation is ongoing.

TWO FOUND DEAD IN ROCKPORT HOME
May 27, 2023
The Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division is investigating the shooting deaths of a husband and wife found dead Friday, May 26, 2023, in their Rockport home. Investigators suspect the deaths are the result of a homicide/suicide.

David W. Lewis, 55, and Kesha L. Lewis, 49, were found dead at 351 Military Road, Rockport, by a family member making a welfare check.

The deceased were transported to the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory, where manner and cause of death will be determined. The investigation is ongoing.

SUSPECT IN MAY 20 PURSUIT NETS MULTIPLE CHARGES
May 26, 2023
A suspect with outstanding warrants was taken into custody May 20, 2023, after fleeing from Troopers and endangering the public by driving at speeds of up to 120 mph through heavy central Arkansas weekend traffic.

"Our top priority is protecting the lives of Arkansans," said Arkansas State Police Colonel Mike Hagar. "Our families and loved ones deserve to be able to travel safely on a Saturday afternoon. I thank God for protecting innocent citizens and our Troopers during this incident."

No motorists were injured as the suspect fled from Troopers on I-40 in North Little Rock, I-30 in Little Rock, Springer Avenue and Roosevelt Road.

The suspect in this pursuit, Christopher Monroe, 42, of Little Rock, had a felony fleeing warrant out of Rockwall County, Texas, and a felony narcotics violation warrant out of Sherwood.

Before the May 20 pursuit and within the past month, Monroe had been involved in high-speed pursuits with Rockwall County Sheriff's Office; Sherwood Police Department; and ASP Troops E and A. 

He was charged in the Eastern District of Arkansas by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Little Rock Office. Charges include:
- Trafficking fentanyl and cocaine
- Possession of schedule 1 narcotics*
- Possession of methamphetamine*
- Felony fleeing
- Simultaneous possession of drugs and a firearm
- Aggravated assault of law enforcement
- Criminal mischief

* with purpose to deliver

2023 SOUTHWEST ARKANSAS RURAL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CONFERENCE
Theme: “Breaking Barriers: Engaging Minds, Empowering Success”
Providing small and emerging business owners with the skills, tools, and contacts needed to create and grow their enterprises and better engage in job creation activities are the goals of an upcoming business conference to be held via Zoom, with two small on-site audiences in Magnolia and Monticello, Arkansas. Funded by the Arkansas Human Development Corporation (AHDC), Arkansas Small Business & Technology Development Center (ASBTDC), Arkansas Business Navigator program, FORGE Community Loan Fund, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), and USDA Rural Development, the 2023 Southwest Arkansas Rural Business Development Conference, with a theme of “Breaking Barriers: Engaging Minds, Empowering Success” will bring together approximately 20 private, quasi-state, state, federal, non-profit, and national organizations with a singular focus of equipping existing and aspiring entrepreneurs with the resources to start and grow their businesses.

Confirmed and/or invited partners include the Arkansas Division Of Workforce Services (ADWS), Arkansas APEX Accelerator, AHDC, ASBTDC, Southwest Arkansas Planning and Development District, U.S. Small Business Administration, and USDA, Rural Development. The conference will be held Friday, June 9, 2023, from 8:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. via Zoom and in-person. In-person participation will be limited to approximately fifty (50) at each conference site, (1) the University of Arkansas at Monticello Student Success Center, Room 102, 350 University Drive, Monticello, AR 71656, or (2) the Southwest Arkansas Planning and Development District, 101 Harvey Couch Boulevard, Magnolia, AR 71754-0767. Topics will include but are not limited to, building effective partnerships, securing capital, selling goods and services to the government, and social media for small businesses.

Join us at 8:30 a.m. for a “Breakfast with the Lenders Roundtable,” where conference participants will network with local, regional, and statewide lenders. Some lenders to be invited include Arkansas Capital Corporation Group, Bodcaw Bank, Cadence Bank, Communities Unlimited, Farmers Bank, FORGE, RMI, Inc., and USDA, RD B&I. The Lenders Roundtable will be facilitated by Mr. Christian Pennington, Lender Relations Specialist, SBA. Ms. Adriene Brown, Arkansas District Director, U.S. Small Business Administration, will be the luncheon speaker.

Don’t miss the opportunity to help your community create needed small businesses and JOBS by acquiring the resources to help your small business GROW and INNOVATE!

AN INVESTMENT OF TIME IS THE COST TO ATTEND BUT REGISTRATION IS ENCOURAGED.

You may register by calling Arkansas Human Development Corporation at (800) 482-7641, extension 0, or online for Magnolia at: https://t.ly/I6DC and online for Monticello at: https://t.ly/i-lx.

10,000 TREES GIVEN AWAY DURING ARKANSAS DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE "FREE TREE FRIDAYS" CAMPAIGN
LITTLE ROCK – The Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s third annual “Free Tree Fridays” campaign resulted in the distribution of 10,000 trees during 28 events held across the state each Friday from March 17 through April 28. The events were hosted by the Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Forestry Division in honor of National Arbor Day, which is celebrated annually on the last Friday of April.

The Arbor Day act of planting a tree gives hope that the tree will grow to provide clean air and water, cooling shade, habitat for wildlife, healthier communities, and natural beauty. The idea for the annual Free Tree Fridays campaign started in 2021 when Grant County Ranger Troy Wood requested an Arbor Day celebration giveaway in his county

“We’re always getting calls from the public asking for trees or information about where to buy trees, so I thought a giveaway would be a great way to get trees to them and help them learn more about the work of the Forestry Division,” said Wood. “This way we can talk to landowners about our programs, and what better time to give away trees than Arbor Day?”

“This program is an excellent way to provide access to trees for people who may never have planted a tree,” said Kristine Kimbro, Urban and Community Forestry Coordinator. “Arbor Day celebrates trees, and through Free Tree Fridays, we are able to promote proper planting techniques for bare root and potted trees, as well as the importance of planting native species.”

For more information about community development opportunities regarding trees, visit agriculture.arkansas.gov/forestry/urban-community-forestry/ or contact Kristine Kimbro, Urban and Community Forestry Coordinator, at kristine.kimbro@agriculture.arkansas.gov.

The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies and programs for Arkansas agriculture, forestry, and natural resources to keep its farmers and ranchers competitive in national and international markets while conserving natural resources and ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation. Visit agriculture.arkansas.gov/. The Arkansas Department of Agriculture offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

 

BILL GOSSAGE NAMED CHIEF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS OFFICER FOR ARKANSAS ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE CORPORATION
Little Rock, Ark. — May 25, 2023 — Bill Gossage has been named Chief External Affairs Officer for Arkansas Electric Cooperative Corporation (AECC) and Arkansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc. (AECI).

“In Bill’s time with Arkansas’ electric cooperatives, he has excelled at ensuring the cooperative message of reliability, affordability and responsibility is communicated with state and federal officials,” said Vernon “Buddy” Hasten, president/CEO for the Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas. “He and his team will continue to ensure that the cooperatives work to improve the quality of life for Arkansans and educate our publics on key issues.”

Gossage joined the cooperatives as vice president of governmental affairs in 2022. Prior to his most recent position, he served as former-Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson's deputy chief of staff of external affairs. Gossage served four years in the Arkansas House of Representatives representing District 82. He is a retired assistant superintendent for the Ozark School District, with 34 years as an educator. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Arkansas Tech University and a master’s degree from the University of Arkansas.

“Arkansas’ electric cooperatives are truly dedicated to the interests of the 1.2 million electric cooperative members throughout Arkansas,” Gossage said. “We look forward to expanding our efforts to fully educate state officials, our members, and the general public about the many challenges facing the electricity sector in Arkansas and the United States.”

The Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas comprise 17 electric distribution cooperatives; Arkansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc. (AECI), a Little Rock-based cooperative that provides services to the distribution cooperatives; and Arkansas Electric Cooperative Corp. (AECC), a generation and transmission cooperative. The distribution cooperatives provide electricity to approximately 600,000 homes, farms and businesses in Arkansas and surrounding states.

 

STATE CAPITOL WEEK IN REVIEW FROM SENATOR MATT STONE
May 25, 2023
LITTLE ROCK – As soon as the 2023 legislative session adjourned, the Senate and House Committees on Education began work on school funding in preparation for the 2025 session.

Every two years the committees issue an adequacy report that sets a level of state funding of public schools that will comply with the state Constitution and state Supreme Court orders in school funding cases.

The adequacy report issued by the Education Committees are the starting point for the entire legislature’s financial decisions on school funding. The committees determine funding levels for numerous categories of education expenditures, such as teacher and principal salaries, ratios of teachers to students, health insurance and other benefits, transportation and instructional materials.

Those categories are set out in a matrix. The bottom line of the matrix is the total foundation funding per student. This year it is $7,413 per student.

In addition to foundation funding there are a few categories of extra funding, also calculated on a per student basis.

For example, school districts receive an additional $366 for each student who does not speak English as their native language. Districts get bonus funding if they have high percentages of students from low-income families.

There is a category in the funding matrix for special education teachers. There is another funding category for schools that have an above-average number of special education students.

The Senate and House Education Committees will begin in earnest preparing an adequacy report in January of 2024. It will take much of 2024 to finalize, and will be the basis for the funding matrix approved by legislators during the 2025 regular session.

In October the committees will examine different funding models, such as the one used in Tennessee and models developed by the Education Commission of the States.

The chair of the Senate Education Committee said that she expected no big decisions to be made, but it would be helpful for Arkansas legislators to know about the funding models in other states.

During the 2023 session, the House of Representatives passed HB 1689 to change the school funding act. However, it failed in the Senate by a vote of 12-to-14.

Supporters of the bill said that the current funding model may be outdated, and that small schools are not receiving enough state aid. The major elements of the current model are about 20 years old and were approved by the legislature in response to state Supreme Court rulings in the Lake View school funding case.

Lake View was a small, rural district in eastern Arkansas that sued the state over school funding. It went through the courts for ten years, and Lake View won.

It was a landmark case that made clear it is a constitutional mandate for the state to provide an adequate and equitable education for every child in Arkansas.

The legislature has the constitutional duty to appropriate state funds, so ultimately it is the duty of legislators to ensure that the state complies with the Constitution and with state Supreme Court orders in the Lake View case.

HOUSE PASSES WESTERMAN COSPONSORED BILL TO PROTECT AMERICANS FROM ILLICIT FENTANYL
WASHINGTON - The U.S. House of Representatives passed legislation cosponsored by Congressman Bruce Westerman to protect Americans from deadly fentanyl.

H.R. 467, the HALT Fentanyl Act will:
Make the temporary class-wide scheduling order for fentanyl related substances permanent.
Supply law enforcement with the tools and resources needed to keep extremely lethal and dangerous drugs off our streets.
Support research on fentanyl-related substances so we can better understand its overall effects on people’s health.

“Illicit fentanyl is pouring through our southern border at unprecedented rates. Fentanyl doesn’t care if you’re a Republican, Democrat, or Independent. It’s a lethal substance that is plaguing our communities and killing more Americans than ever before,” Congressman Bruce Westerman said. “That’s why I cosponsored the HALT Fentanyl Act – it will ensure our law enforcement officers have the tools to keep illicit fentanyl off the streets and away from our younger generations. The passage of this bill is an important step in the right direction in protecting our nation from this epidemic that has already claimed far too many lives.”

COTTON, SHAHEEN, COLLEAGUES SEEK TO ESTABLISH NATIONAL WARRIOR CALL DAY AHEAD OF MEMORIAL DAY
Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) and Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-New Hampshire) recently introduced a resolution to designate November 12, 2023, as “National Warrior Call Day.” As Americans observe Memorial Day by honoring service members who sacrificed their lives in defense of our country, the lawmakers want to emphasize forming meaningful relationships with both those currently serving and veterans. Such relationships can help fight against mental illness and the epidemic of suicide among military members.

Co-sponsoring the resolution are Sens. John Boozman (R-Arkansas), Bob Casey (D-Pennsylvania), Elizabeth Warren (D-Massachusetts), Peter Welch (D-Vermont), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minnesota), John Thune (R-South Dakota), Mark Kelly (D-Arizona), John Hickenlooper (D-Colorado), John Fetterman (D-Pennsylvania), John Tester (D-Montana), Jackie Rosen (D-Nevada), James Risch (R-Idaho), John Hoeven (R-North Dakota), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Mississippi), Rick Scott (R-Florida), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Shelley Moore Capito (R-West Virginia), Eric Schmitt (R-Missouri), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-Rhode Island), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), and Marco Rubio (R-Florida).

“Americans can never fully pay back those who serve in defense of America. We can, however, make sure that active military members and veterans have access to the support they need after serving to lead active and healthy lives. This bipartisan resolution will raise awareness on the importance of building relationships with those who defend our freedom,” said Senator Cotton.

“Those who have taken the oath to defend our country deserve our support long after their service ends. This bipartisan resolution to designate a National Warrior Call Day will help to strengthen the relationship between veterans and civilians, providing them the support they earned during their years of service,” said Senator Shaheen.

CAMDEN A & P COMMISSION TO MEET
The Camden A & P Commission will meet on May 30, 2023 in the Council Chambers of the Municipal Building. The agenda is as follows:

Welcome
Approval of April Minutes
Approval of April Finances
Old Business
1.   Mike Sherman – Updates on Ivra Clark, Carnes and Fairview Park
New Business
1.   Thomas Vaughn-Roof at Ivra Clark Ida B. Moore Community Center
2.   Jennifer Horn - Outdoor Recreation Matching Grant
3.   Filling the Chairman’s Position (Tim Wilson resigned)
Adjourn
 

WHAT'S THE COOLEST THING MADE IN ARKANSAS?
That's the question Arkansans are being asked to answer as part of the 2023 "Coolest Thing Made in Arkansas" campaign. Hosted by Arkansas Business, in partnership with the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce and Entergy, the promotion seeks to highlight the state's manufacturing sector and the vital role it plays on both the national and international scene.

Bonnie Jacoby, Vice President of Sales and Training at Arkansas Business, said the campaign launched last year after a casual conversation she had with Randy Zook, president and CEO of the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce.
The 2022 inaugural competition resulted in 16 finalists in a single-elimination bracket-style contest. Those products ranged from snack foods to industrial equipment pioneered by Arkansas-based companies like Nabholz and Nucor. The winner, however, was a clear choice for the Coolest Thing Made in Arkansas - Lockheed Martin's High Mobility Artillery Rocket System, or HIMARS [pronounced HIGH-MARS].

The HIMARS is produced in Camden and has received widespread international attention as a critical part of the U.S. assistance package to Ukraine in its defense against the ongoing Russian invasion.

Jacoby said the HIMARS was a bit of a surprise winner of the 2022 competition because many Arkansans - and even a few Lockheed Martin officials - had no idea this sophisticated weapons system was produced right here in Arkansas. Jacoby stressed, however, that Arkansas products don't have to be as impressive as the HIMARS to become a finalist in the Coolest Thing Made in Arkansas campaign.
 
The campaign's primary goal is to highlight the products made in Arkansas and the needs they fill not just within the state, but across the nation and globe. Jacoby hopes the effort will encourage Arkansans to be even prouder of the state's manufacturing sector.

The nomination period for the 2023 Coolest Thing Made in Arkansas Campaign remains open through June 2. Nominating a product couldn't be easier - just visit www.coolestthinginarkansas.com and cast your vote. This year's winner will be announced in October.

Again, for more information on this year's campaign, and to nominate an Arkansas-made product, visit www.coolesthinginarkansas.com.

STATE POLICE CID INVESTIGATING DEATHS
May 23, 2023
The Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division is investigating the homicides of two men discovered early this morning off Arkansas Highway 161, south of Scott in Pulaski County.

The deceased were transported to the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory, where manner and cause of death will be determined. The investigation is ongoing.

ENTERGY ARKANSAS LAUNCHES REFRIGERATOR AND FREEZER INITIATIVE
Customers receive $25 incentive and a free appliance pick-up
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Entergy Arkansas has launched a new recycling program for residential customers to make replacing their outdated refrigerator or freezer easier. The Entergy Solutions’ Point of Purchase Solutions (POPS) Program allows customers to schedule a free pick-up of a working refrigerator or freezer and receive a $25 incentive check for recycling their old appliance.

Entergy Arkansas is pleased to offer this convenient way to remove and recycle old, energy-inefficient refrigerators and freezers and thereby reduce your energy costs. According to ENERGY STAR®, residents can save up to $260 per year on their energy bill by running more efficient ENERGY STAR certified appliances- not only will the collected appliances not end up in a landfill, but after they are dismantled by recycling technicians, 95% of the materials – including plastic, metals, and glass – will be recycled.

“Our Entergy Solutions programs play an integral role in helping us offer Arkansans safe and reliable energy,” said Energy Efficiency Manager Denice Jeter, “Our appliance recycling initiative is a great resource to help customers manage their energy usage efficiently by providing a convenient way to recycle old refrigerators and freezers. Additionally, the POPS program offers Entergy Arkansas residential customers a $50 rebate when they purchase an ENERGY STAR certified compact, chest or upright freezer.”

Signs that it is time to retire and recycle your old refrigerator or freezer include the accumulation of excess ice, signs of moisture, a broken seal, the appliance generating heat or a constantly running motor. Since refrigerators are always running, their energy costs can really add up. Fortunately, refrigerators have become more efficient, with newer models costing less to operate and using less energy than older models.

To be eligible for this initiative, the resident must be an Entergy Arkansas residential customer with a working- condition refrigerator or freezer that is between 10 and 32 cubic feet in size. The appliance must be empty, clean and plugged in at the time of pickup, with the water line disconnected.

Scheduling a pick-up is easy – customers can email EntergyARrecycling@clearesult.com or call 833-748-7329 to schedule. Customers should have the following information ready in order to schedule:
Entergy Arkansas residential account number
Name on account and physical address
Appliance information (appliance type, brand and model, cubic feet, estimate age/year)
Email address and phone number

The $25 rebate will be mailed within six weeks of appliance pickup. There is a limit of one refrigerator and one freezer per household per seven-year period.

The Entergy Solutions portfolio of programs are energy-efficiency programs administered by Entergy Arkansas that help both residential and business customers save energy and money by reducing the upfront cost of a variety of power-saving upgrades. The programs work with participating partners, local trade allies and retailers to help customers find ways to save energy through the implementation of energy efficiency measures.

This appliance recycling offering is part of the POPS Program, which provides ways for Entergy Arkansas customers to save money on energy-efficient products for their homes. Whether customers buy a product that is eligible for a rebate or purchase directly from the Entergy Arkansas Marketplace, they can save on products that use less energy and save money. From smart thermostats to dehumidifiers and advanced power strips, there are discounts and rebates that allow Entergy customers to make their homes brighter and more comfortable, for less.

For more information about Energy Star products and programs, visit https://www.energystar.gov/about. For more information about appliance recycling and residential Entergy Solutions programs, visit entergyarkansas.com/recycle.  

 

ARKANSAS BLACK MAYORS ASSOCIATION TO CONDUCT COMMUNITY OUTREACH FOR WATERSHED IMPROVEMENT PLANS THROUGHOUT SOUTHERN & EASTERN ARKANSAS
Final Selection of Project Planning Consultants Announced
LITTLE ROCK, AR (MAY 22, 2023) – On Monday, the Arkansas Black Mayors Association (ABMA) announced the engineering teams that will lead community outreach and development of plans for watershed improvements in 14 areas around the state. These public meetings will be conducted in conjunction with the selected engineering teams, with the first meeting being held in the City of Helena-West Helena on Wed., May 31 at 6:00 p.m. in Central High School’s auditorium, 103 School Rd. Subsequent public meetings in June and July will also be announced in the future. Details on upcoming community meetings and these projects overall can be found at www.abmawatershedproject.com.

The development of the Watershed Project Plans is a critical step towards addressing flooding faced by many communities throughout Arkansas. The plans will encompass a total of 14 project areas across Eastern, Southeastern, Southern, and Southwestern Arkansas and will be developed with input from the consultants to ensure their effectiveness.

The project areas, which comprises cities, their surrounding communities, and watersheds are:

1.     Hughes and Jennette
a.     Blackfish Bayou Watershed
b.     Tenmile Bayou – Fifteenmile Bayou Watershed 

2.     Dumas
a.     Cypress Creek – Headwaters Boeuf River Watershed
b.     Oak Log Bayou – Cypress Bayou Watershed
c.      Canal No. 43 Watershed
d.     Amos Bayou Watershed

3.     El Dorado
a.     Haynes Creek Watershed
b.     Salt Creek Watershed
c.      Boggy Creek Watershedd.     City of El Dorado – Bayou de Loutre Watershed
e.     Dry Creek – Little Cornie Bayou Watershed
f.       Holmes Creek Watershed

4.     Madison
a.     L’Anguille River – St. Francis River Watershed

5.     Altheimer
a.     Little Bayou Meto Watershed

6.     Stamps and Lewisville
a.     Lake Erling – Bodcau Creek Watershed 

7.     Turrell
a.     Big Creek Watershed

8.     Eudora
a.     Grand Lake – Bayou Macon Watershed
b.     Caney Bayou Watershed
c.      Tiger Bayou Watershed
d.     Paps Slough – Bayou Macon Watershed

9.     Wilmot
a.     Overflow Creek Watershed
b.     Camp Bayou Watershed

10.  Forrest City, Haynes, and Marianna
a.     Larkin Creek – L’Anguille River Watershed

11.  Camden
a.     Freeo Creek – Ouachita River Watershed
b.     North Bayou – Two Bayou Watershed

 12.  Pine Bluff
a.     Bayou Bartholomew Headwaters Watershed
b.     Caney Creek – Caney Bayou Watershed
c.      Caney Creek – Arkansas River Watershed
d.     Plum Bayou – Arkansas River Watershed
e.     Cousart Bayou Headwaters – Lake Alice Watershed
f.       Imbeau Bayou Watershed
g.     Nevins Creek Watershed
h.     Upper Deep Bayou Watershed
i.       Boggy Bayou – Bayou Bartholomew Watershed

13.  Helena-West Helena
14.  Helena-West Helena, Lake View, and Marvell
a.     Lick Creek – Big Creek Watershed

The selected engineering teams for these project areas, pending contract negotiations, are:

·  Freese and Nichols, Inc. (cities of Hughes and Jenette, and El Dorado)
·   Michael Baker International, Inc. (cities of Dumas, Turrell, and Camden)
·   ICONIC Consulting Group, Inc. (cities of Madison, Forrest City, Haynes and Marianna, Helena-West Helena, Lake View, and Marvell for the Lick Creek – Big Creek Watershed)
·  KEE Concrete and Construction, Inc. (cities of Altheimer and Helena-West Helena for the Long Lake Bayou – Little Bee Bayou Watershed)
·  EJES – FTN Associates JV (cities of Stamps and Lewisville, and Pine Bluff)
·  Headway Environmental (cities of Eudora and Wilmot)  

Lewisville Mayor and ABMA President Ethan Dunbar said “We are excited to move forward with this important initiative to improve the health of our watersheds, the safety of our communities, and protect the environment for future generations. The selection of qualified engineering and natural resources planning consultants is crucial to this initiative, and the Arkansas Black Mayors Association looks forward to working closely with them to ensure that these plans benefit the communities we serve.”

The consultants will follow the policy set forth in the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Title 390, National Watershed Program Manual (NWPM), Part 501 to ensure that the plans are developed in accordance with industry standards. 

For more information about these projects, future public meetings, and updates, go to www.abmawatershedproject.com, or follow the ABMA’s Facebook page.

ARKANSAS DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE RELEASES SURVEY FOR THE PUBLIC TO REPORT PINE TREE DISCOLORATION AND MORTALITY
LITTLE ROCK – The Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Forestry Division (Forestry Division) has released a survey for members of the public to report pine tree discoloration and/or mortality, specifically in southeast Arkansas. The survey can be found at arcg.is/1HyHCu0.

The increase in pine tree discoloration and mortality is an issue that has been observed in Arkansas and neighboring states. No specific cause has been identified and several possible causes are being considered.

This survey will provide Forestry Division staff and partners with data to further investigate this issue. The survey will collect information about the date and location of the observation, the environment where the observation occurred, and other general observations.

To analyze the causes of pine tree mortality and identify solutions, the Forestry Division is working with multiple partners, including the University of Arkansas at Monticello College of Forestry, Agriculture, and Natural Resources; the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture Cooperative Extension Service; and the Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Plant Industries Division.

For more information about pine tree discoloration and/or mortality, visit agriculture.arkansas.gov/forestry/arkansas-forestry-health/arkansas-loblolly-pine-decline/.

The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies and programs for Arkansas agriculture, forestry, and natural resources to keep its farmers and ranchers competitive in national and international markets while conserving natural resources and ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation. Visit agriculture.arkansas.gov/. The Arkansas Department of Agriculture offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
 

CAMDEN CITY COUNCIL TO HOLD WORKSHOP
The City of Camden Board of Aldermen will meet for a workshop on Thursday, May 25, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers of the Municipal Building.

STATE OF ARKANSAS, OUACHITA COUNTY AND CITY OF CAMDEN MEMORIAL DAY CLOSING
The City of Camden Offices will be closed on Monday 29, 2023 to observe Memorial Day.

The Ouachita County Courthouse and the Ouachita County Extension Office will be closed Monday May 29, 2023 in observance of Memorial Day.

The State of Arkansas will observe Memorial Day as an official state holiday on Monday, May 29, 2023.   

State Capitol offices will be closed for business. However, the Capitol building will be open to the public from 8:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.