Womack responds to Netanyahu’s Address to Congress

Washington, DC—July 24, 2024…Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) released the following statement after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed a Joint Meeting of Congress in the Hall of the U.S. House of Representatives today:

Netanyahu - Wikimedia

Congressman Womack said, “Prime Minister Netanyahu’s speech reaffirmed the longstanding relationship between our nations, emphasizing America’s responsibility to support our allies in war against our common enemies. He did a great job of giving context to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and its importance to the global nature of the axis of evil we face. Our country must stand firmly with Israel in its fight to exist and defeat murderous terrorists who are still holding Americans hostage.”

Congressman Womack has made strengthening the U.S.-Israel alliance a priority during his time in Congress. He has continually backed military assistance that supports the safety of Israeli citizens and stability in the region.

Recent actions Congressman Womack has taken to support Israel:

• Voted for the House-passed Antisemitism Awareness Act of 2023, which codifies President Trump’s Executive Order that discrimination against Jewish students may violate Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and requires the Department of Education to take into account the 2016 International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s definition of antisemitism and its contemporary examples as part of its assessment of whether antisemitic discrimination transpired.

• Voted for the House-passed Further Consolidated Appropriations Act, which fully funds the U.S.-Israeli cooperative missile defense programs and holds the United Nations accountable for its blatant bias against our ally Israel by prohibiting any taxpayer dollars from going to the United Nations Commission of Inquiry against Israel and the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA).

• Voted for the House-passed H.R. 6126, the Israel Security Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2024.

• Voted for the House-passed H.Res. 771, Standing with Israel as it defends itself against the barbaric war launched by Hamas and other terrorists. 

• Voted for the House-passed H. Res. 798, Condemning the support of Hamas, Hezbollah, and other terrorist organizations at institutions of higher education, which may lead to the creation of a hostile environment for Jewish students, faculty, and staff.

• Voted to support the expansion of the Abraham Accords to encourage nations to normalize relations with Israel and express continued support for bilateral cooperation across economic, security, and civilian issues.

• Voted to condemn the rise of antisemitism and call on elected officials to identify and educate others on the contributions of the Jewish American community.

• Voted to establish a Special Envoy for the Abraham Accords at the Department of State to strengthen and expand the Abraham Accords.

• Voted for the House-passed FY25 NDAA which reaffirms U.S. support to Israel against Iran, Hamas, and Hezbollah.

• Voted for the House-passed FY25 State and Foreign Operations Appropriations bill, which includes $3.3 billion in Foreign Military Financing for Israel to defend itself against terrorist attacks and prohibits funding for the International Criminal Court, International Court of Justice, UNRWA, and the United Nations Commission of Inquiry against Israel.

Arkansas Secretary of State defends rejection of proposed abortion amendment

KUAR | By Tess Vrbin / Arkansas Advocate

From the Arkansas Advocate:

Arkansas Secretary of State John Thurston continued to argue in a court filing Monday that a ballot question committee did not file required paperwork when it submitted a proposed constitutional amendment that would create a limited right to abortion.

Thurston’s filing was in compliance with a state Supreme Court order on Friday that his office respond to a complaint filed July 6 by Arkansans for Limited Government.

The response denied most of the allegations in AFLG’s July 16 legal complaint and reiterated many of Thurston’s previous reasons for rejecting the proposed amendment, which the ballot question committee submitted to his office July 5 with more than 102,000 signatures.

Arkansas Secretary of State defends rejection of proposed abortion amendment

Tess Vrbin/Arkansas Advocate

A supporter of the Arkansas Abortion Amendment holds up a sign in an Arkansas Capitol hallway while petitions to put the amendment on the November ballot are delivered in boxes to the Secretary of State on Friday, July 5, 2024.

Arkansas panel OKs voucher program with ‘substantive change’ for public schools

KUAR | By Mary Hennigan / Arkansas Advocate

Arkansas public schools will soon have an opportunity to collect money from the state’s new school voucher program, according to a rule passed out of a state subcommittee Tuesday.

With minimal discussion, the Administrative Rules Subcommittee of the Arkansas Legislative Council unanimously reviewed and approved a permanent rule governing Education Freedom Accounts, which included a “substantive change” from previously approved emergency rules.

Under the revised rule, public schools will be listed as “education service providers” and will be eligible to receive funding reimbursements for services given to non-public school students. Public institutions were previously excluded from this distinction.

Arkansas panel OKs voucher program with ‘substantive change’ for public schools

Mary Hennigan/Arkansas Advocate

Administrative Rules Subcommittee of the Arkansas Legislative Council meets to discuss education-related rules on July 30, 2024.

UAMS MASH Program Introduces High School Students to Health Care Careers

By Philip Allison

First held in 1988, MASH is a two-week program held at UAMS Regional Campuses and community hospitals across Arkansas. A similar program, condensed into a single week known as miniMASH, is also offered. Participants must be entering the 11th or 12th grades and have at least a 2.5 grade point average. In a related program, students who will be entering eighth, ninth or 10th grade are eligible for a one-week intensive Community Health Applied in Medical Public Service (CHAMPS) program.

This year, 27 different sessions were held in 23 cities around the state. The program is free for students, thanks to a partnership with Arkansas Farm Bureau. In 2023, Arkansas Farm Bureau pledged a gift of $500,000 over five years to create the Farm Bureau Fund for Excellence, which will support health career recruitment efforts.

The MASH program offers a variety of hands-on activities and in-person experiences, such as:

• Tour of the UAMS mobile unit

• Suturing

• Casting

• Blood typing

• Porcine heart dissection

• Respiratory therapy

• Mock trauma simulation

• Sonography

• Genetic counseling

UAMS MASH Program Introduces High School Students to Health Care Careers

Nine Decades of helping families: National Extension Association of Family & Consumer Sciences marks its founding in 1934

By Nina Roof
Assistant Vice President – Family and Consumer Sciences
Cooperative Extension Service

Nina Roofe, head of FCS efforts in Arkansas, writes about the 90th anniversary of the National Extension Association of Family and Consumer Sciences in a guest column.

At a time when the world suffered deeply from the Great Depression and the lingering effects of a pandemic that may have killed up to 50 million people, a group dedicated to supporting families was born: The National Extension Association of Family and Consumer Sciences.

The year was 1934. The Spanish Flu still burned in recent memory. Bread and soup lines extended for blocks as the Depression shut down jobs and the Dust Bowl shut down agriculture. Daily life marked by economic hardship, resiliency, and creativity for survival spurred the establishment of an organization dedicated to supporting educators and professionals in family and consumer sciences whose work improves the quality of life for individuals and families.NEAFCS is not just a group of professionals but a support system for educators and professionals in family and consumer sciences — a field that touches so many aspects of an individual’s or family’s lives. Its establishment was not just about fostering collaboration, professional development, and advocacy but about significantly enhancing the quality of life for individuals and families. NEAFCS's education in food science, nutrition, financial management, family relationships, and health and wellness has left a lasting impact.NEAFCS's members, who typically work within the land-grant university system, are not just researchers. They are community advocates, providing practical, research-based resources and programs that directly address the needs of their communities. NEAFCS's role in facilitating networking opportunities, conferences, and workshops is not just about promoting professional growth but about sharing best practices that can make a real difference in the lives of individuals and families.

Unemployed men queued outside a depression soup kitchen opened in Chicago by Al Capone, 02-1931 (Image courtesy National Archives at College Park, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons)

Over the last 90 years, the field of Family and Consumer Sciences has significantly contributed to families in Arkansas  through:

1. Education and Skill Development: FCS programs provide education on essential life skills such as budgeting, nutrition, cooking, and child development, helping families make informed decisions. Cooperative Extension work in Arkansas started in 1905 with Farmers’ Institutes and Farmers’ Cooperative Demonstration Work. In 1908, 4-H club work started, and in 1911, home demonstration work began.  Over the last 90 years, this work has expanded from canning and sewing clubs to an evidence-based, comprehensive family and consumer sciences education and skills-based training program. The first home demonstration work in my home in Faulkner County, Arkansas, was done by boys and girls in tomato, poultry, and pig clubs. Then, in 1912, Blanche Wilson became the first Home Demonstration Agent in Faulkner County. 

2. Families, Mental Health and Technology: Programs emphasize the importance of strong family relationships and communication, providing resources that support parenting, conflict resolution, and family dynamics. An essential part of this work is in the mental health arena. We still have a long way to go, but over the last 90 years, we have witnessed increased awareness and decreased stigma associated with mental health diagnoses. Equipping Arkansans to recognize signs of anxiety, stress, depression, and red flags for suicide and how to respond appropriately can de-escalate stressful situations and save lives. Digital citizenship and internet safety were not needed 90 years ago. Unfortunately, today, these are essential components of a comprehensive FCS Extension education program designed to protect citizens of all ages.

3. Financial Management: FCS offers guidance on financial literacy, helping families learn about budgeting, saving, and investing, contributing to better financial stability. Education on consumer rights and responsibilities has helped families navigate the marketplace and make informed choices about products and services. Lessons learned during the Great Depression equipped Extension professionals to arm families of today to make wise financial decisions. Their work moves individuals and families from living paycheck to paycheck to saving, investing for the future, managing resources, and pulling families out of the cycle of poverty.

4. Food Science and Nutrition: Initiatives focus on promoting healthy eating, addressing obesity and chronic diseases, meal planning, and addressing malnutrition and nutrient deficiencies due to economic challenges and a lack of farming knowledge. Ninety years ago, our nation had an issue of malnutrition and nutrient deficiencies due to economic difficulties and a lack of farming knowledge. Through gardening and food preservation education, low-income support, and education, families can grow their groceries and contribute to their families' health and wellness.

5. Health Management and Wellness: Initiatives focus on promoting healthy lifestyle choices, addressing obesity through environmental changes, embracing aging, and incorporating movement for all ages. Impacts of these community-based education programs include Arkansans incorporating physical activity into their daily lives, managing their health care, talking to their doctor, and making wise medication decisions. Policy, systems, and environmental change strategies have come a long way in 90 years to make health care more accessible. A recent example is the Delta Rides program in Phillips County, providing free rides for residents to go to their doctor's office, pharmacy, and other vital health-related destinations.

6. Community Engagement: FCS involves families in community service and engagement projects, fostering community and connectedness among residents. Whether this is in the local schools, community centers, churches, grocery stores, pharmacies, expo centers, or senior centers, an FCS professional can meet residents where they live, laugh, learn, and love to provide the information they need to improve their lives. The venues may have changed over the past 90 years, but the delivery of evidence-based information has never changed. These programs provide valuable life skills, leadership training, and opportunities for personal development, benefiting families by empowering future generations or providing an opportunity to give back to their community. Volunteer programs part of the Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service include:

1. Arkansas 4-H, 1908

2. Arkansas Homemakers’ Council, 1912

3. Arkansas Master Gardener Program, 1988

I joined NEAFCS when I started working for the Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service in 2023. This organization provides valuable resources including leadership development, networking, scholarships, and educational opportunities are geared specifically toward those upholding the missions of land grant universities. All of this supports me and my faculty, program associates, program technicians, and county agents to be successful in our careers. In turn, this allows us to serve the individuals, families, and communities of Arkansas to improve their lives.

Unemployed men queued outside a depression soup kitchen opened in Chicago by Al Capone, 02-1931 (Image courtesy National Archives at College Park, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons)

Arkansas Latino Hall of Fame announces inaugural class

by Talk Business & Politics staff (staff2@talkbusiness.net)

The Arkansas Latino Hall of Fame (ALHOF) revealed the names of its inaugural class of inductees — four individuals and one organization – that have made significant contributions to the state and their respective fields.

The inductees, who will be honored at the inaugural ceremony on Thursday, October 24th, at Wyndham Riverfront Hotel in North Little Rock, are Andre Guerrero, Ph.D., Roberto Martinez, Fabricio Medina-Bolivar, Ph.D., Lisette Yang, and El Centro Hispano.

Roberto Martinez -UA Cossatot Image

Roberto Martinez
Roberto Martinez, a resident of Sevier County, Ark., has been realizing his dreams since moving from Chicago in 1980. Inspired by Arkansas’ “Land of Opportunity” slogan, he settled between Horatio and De Queen, embracing a dramatic lifestyle change from city to rural life. Martinez faced challenges, including establishing credit and credibility, but his perseverance led to significant achievements in agriculture. In 1987, his family was honored as the Sevier County Farm Family of the Year, and later that year, they won the district title. Martinez’s success inspired many, and today, Sevier County boasts the highest number of Latino farmers in Arkansas. Martinez brings valuable insights into agriculture and regional industry to the many boards he has served and is currently serving on the Little Rock Federal Reserve Board of Directors, University of Arkansas Cossatot Board of Visitors, and Christus St. Michael Hospital. Martinez also owns Rancho La Esperanza and serves on the Board of Visitors for Cossatot Community College, the Arkansas Farm Bureau, and the Sevier County Farm Service Agency.

Arkansas Latino Hall of Fame announces inaugural class

Womack Travels to West Point for Summer Training, Leads Board of Visitors Meeting

West Point, NY—July 26, 2024…Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3), Chairman of the West Point Board of Visitors (BOV), traveled to the United States Military Academy at West Point to observe cadet summer training, meet with cadets and academy leadership, and lead the West Point Board of Visitors meeting.

Chairman Womack said, “One of my highlights each summer is observing cadet training and meeting with our next generation of Army leaders, particularly those from Arkansas’ Third District. As Chairman of the West Point Board of Visitors, I focused today's board meeting on the cadets’ developmental experience and ensuring USMA remains the world’s preeminent leadership institute. I’m incredibly proud of these cadets, who commit themselves every day to the values of Duty, Honor, and Country.”

Today, Chairman Womack observed cadet summer training and led the Board of Visitors meeting, where board members received briefings on West Point’s academic, physical, and military priorities. Faculty and cadets also led discussions on a range of topics, including developing leaders of character, building diverse and effective teams, modernizing readiness capabilities, strengthening partnerships, and the importance of investments in military readiness.

The U.S. Military Academy at West Point Board of Visitors provides independent advice and recommendations on academy matters, including morale and discipline, curriculum, instruction, physical equipment, fiscal affairs, academic methods, and other issues deemed appropriate by board members. 

Chairman Womack was first appointed to the BOV in 2012 by Speaker John Boehner and subsequently elected BOV Chairman in 2017. He is currently the only congressional representative from Arkansas to serve on the board.

Faulkner County teen wins Arkansas 4-H Governor's Award

By Tracy Courage
U of A System Division of Agriculture

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Kacie Clark of El Paso is the third member of her family to be a finalist for the Arkansas 4-H Governor’s Award, and on July 24, she clinched the highest honor awarded in Arkansas 4-H and received a $3,000 scholarship.

WINNER — Kacie Clark of Faulkner County is the 2024 Arkansas 4-H Governor's Award winner. Left to right: John Thomas, managing director of the Arkansas 4-H Foundation; John D. Anderson, Cooperative Extension Service director; Debbie Nistler, assistant vice president for 4-H and youth development for the Division of Agriculture; Joel Anderson, chancellor emeritus of the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and award sponsor; Kacie Clark; and Deacue Fields, vice president of the Division of Agriculture. (Division of Agriculture photo.) 

Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders announced Clark, 18, as the winner in a recorded message played during the Arkansas 4-H Awards of Excellence ceremony at the University of Arkansas.

More than 250 4-H members from across the state are convened on the campus for the annual Arkansas 4-H State O-Rama. During the week-long event, 4-H members elect new officers and participate in more than 30 competitive events, ranging from archery and ATV safety to public speaking, poultry judging and performing arts.

“I feel like I’m going out with a bang,” Clark said of her 13 years in 4-H. “I feel very honored. All of us have done so much in 4-H. Any one of the other finalists would have deserved it.”

Three other 4-H members were finalists for the award with Clark: Connor Henry of Arkansas County; Josiah Lillard of White County; and Zach Gardner of Washington County. They each received a $1,000 scholarship.

“All four of you have achieved amazing things for yourself and your communities,” Gov. Sanders said. “I’m proud of each of you.”

Finalists are chosen based on their accomplishments in leadership, citizenship, community service, 4-H projects and activities, and overall contributions to Arkansas 4-H. The four scholarships are sponsored by 4-H alumni Dr. Joel Anderson, chancellor emeritus of the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. The 4-H Governor’s Award winner’s silver tray is sponsored by former 4-H member and agent Darlene Millard.

A winning spirit

“I am struck by the level of passion and excitement each of our finalists demonstrated,” said Debbie Nistler, assistant vice president for 4-H and youth development for the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture. “They are amazing examples of the spirit of 4-H, and Kacie truly embodies that spirit.”

Earlier Thursday, Clark competed in the performing arts vocal competition, singing “Deeper than the Holler” by Randy Travis. After she took her seat, she clapped and called out encouragement to her competitors. 

The 4-H way is to learn by doing through project work, and Clark has learned something new every year. On Thursday, she competed in interior design for the first time.

Clark joined 4-H when she was 5 years old, and she showed a pig at a county fair during her first year. She has had projects in healthy living, fine arts, performing arts-vocals, public speaking, forestry and poultry. She helped organize the first 4-H Food Challenge team to compete in culinary skills and has served as a 4-H camp counselor and a Teen Leader. For the past year, she has served as vice president on the 4-H State Officer Team.

Clark plans to attend Arkansas State University-Beebe this fall and then transfer to ASU-Jonesboro or the University of Arkansas to pursue a degree in agricultural business.

That doesn’t mean she’s done with 4-H. Clark said she plans to remain active in 4-H as a volunteer and wants to lead a Cloverbud Club in Faulkner County.

Clark’s two older brothers, Brent and Travis, both previously served as 4-H state presidents and were finalists for the Governor’s Award.

Shortly after Clark received the award, text messages began arriving from her family watching via livestream.

Her brother, Travis, texted his one-word congratulations: “Nice!”

To learn about 4-H, contact your local Cooperative Extension Service agent or visit 4h.uada.edu.  

To learn about extension programs in Arkansas, contact your local Cooperative Extension Service agent or visit www.uaex.uada.edu. Follow us on X and Instagram at @AR_Extension. To learn more about Division of Agriculture research, visit the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station website: https://aaes.uada.edu. Follow on X at @ArkAgResearch. To learn more about the Division of Agriculture, visit https://uada.edu/. Follow us on X at @AgInArk. 

Electric cooperatives to build $2 billion in power plants to ensure system reliability

by Jeff Della Rosa (JDellaRosa@nwabj.com)

Buddy Hasten, president and CEO of Arkansas Electric Cooperative Corp. (AECC) and Arkansas Electric Cooperatives Inc. (AECI), said at least $2 billion in new electricity generating capacity would meet energy demand amid rising reserve margins and power plant retirements.

To pay for the new capacity, consumers can expect a 14% rate increase, split into four smaller increases from 2025 to 2028.

On Monday (July 29), Hasten discussed the plans at the 2024 Directors’ Summer Conference that the Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas hosted at Embassy Suites in Rogers. Little Rock-based AECC recently celebrated its 75th anniversary. It was incorporated on July 11, 1949, and is the wholesale power provider for the state’s 17 electric distribution cooperatives.

Electric cooperatives to build $2 billion in power plants to ensure system reliability

Jim Matheson, CEO of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, speaks at the 2024 Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas Directors’ Summer Conference in Rogers.

UAMS’ Michael Birrer, M.D., Ph.D., Publishes Study Results in JAMA Oncology on Treatment for Incurable Cervical Cancer

By Marty Trieschmann

The results of an international clinical trial led by Michael Birrer, M.D., Ph.D., director of the Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS), on the use of a novel bispecific antibody for women with recurrent or metastatic cervical cancer were published today in JAMA Oncology.

Cervical cancer is a leading cause of cancer and death in women worldwide with approximately 660,000 new cases and 350,000 deaths each year. It is estimated that 13,820 women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with cervical cancer this year, and 4,360 women in the U.S. will die from cervical cancer this year. Arkansas has one of the highest incidence and mortality rates per capita for cervical cancer in the U.S., with 720 cases reported between 2017 and 2021. The overall five-year survival rate for cervical cancer is 67%.

Recognized nationally and internationally as an expert in gynecologic oncology, Birrer led the two-year, multisite study of the bispecific antibody, Bintrafusp alpha, in 146 women with recurrent or metastatic cervical cancer that had progressed during or after receiving platinum-based chemotherapy. The treatment resulted in tumor response in 22% of the patients, with 56% responding to the treatment consistently over a period of six months or more.

UAMS’ Michael Birrer, M.D., Ph.D., Publishes Study Results in JAMA Oncology on Treatment for Incurable Cervical Cancer

Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute Director, Michael Birrer, M.D., Ph.D., led a two-year international clinical trial to test a novel treatment for a deadly form of cervical cancer. Image by Bryan Clifton

Abortion amendment volunteer signature count falls short of threshold

KUAR | By Josie Lenora

An Arkansas abortion advocacy group does not have enough signatures to put an amendment legalizing the procedure on the November ballot.

On Thursday, Leslie Bellamy on behalf of the secretary of state's office signed an affidavit saying the group only collected 87,675 signatures. This is less than the over 90,000 signatures needed to put the amendment on the ballot. 912 other signatures were thrown out on a technicality.

The signatures were gathered by Arkansas For Limited Government, a group aiming to pass an amendment in Arkansas to legalize abortion up to the 18th week of pregnancy.

Abortion amendment volunteer signature count falls short of threshold

Cotton, Scott, Colleagues introduce bill to sanction Palestinian leadership and institutions that reward terrorism

Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) and Senator Tim Scott (R-South Carolina) today introduced the PLO and PA Terror Payments Accountability Act, legislation that would impose sanctions on foreign persons and entities that provide payments to Palestinian terrorists and the families of terrorists as part of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) and Palestinian Authority’s (PA) system of terror compensation. 

Senators Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Pete Ricketts (R-Nebraska), Ted Budd (R-North Carolina), Eric Schmitt (R-Missouri), Marco Rubio (R-Florida), Bill Hagerty (R-Tennessee), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Rick Scott (R-Florida), John Cornyn (R-Texas), and Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) are cosponsoring the legislation. Congressmen Mike Lawler (New York-17) and Doug Lamborn (Colorado-05) are introducing bipartisan companion legislation in the House with 27 cosponsors.

“The Palestinian Authority and the Palestine Liberation Organization continue to support terrorism against Israel by providing hundreds of millions of dollars per year in their reprehensible ‘pay-for-slay’ program. Anti-Semitic Palestinian terrorists know they can expect payment as a reward for killing Israelis and Americans–with thousands of Palestinian terrorists tied to October 7 eligible for these terror payments. Our bill will ensure that the PA, PLO and their institutions that reward acts of terrorism are punished,” said Senator Cotton.

“For years, the Palestinian Authority has incentivized brutal attacks against Israelis—and even American citizens—through its horrific 'pay for slay' policies. Strong words and failed negotiations aren’t enough to stop these acts of terror. We need to actually use the authorities at our disposal to impose real economic pain against those who support and facilitate so-called 'martyr payments,' and I am proud to partner with Senator Cotton and our Republican colleagues to do just that,” said Senator Scott.

Text of the bill may be found here.

The PLO and PA Terror Payments Accountability Act would impose sanctions on:

• Foreign persons who serve as an employee of the PLO and PA that has facilitated the payments, provided payments themselves, or knowingly provided significant financial, technological, or material support and resources as part of the PLO and PA’s system of compensation supporting acts of terrorism. 

• Entities that facilitate the PLO and PA system of compensation supporting acts of terrorism including the Commission of Prisoners and Released Prisoners, the Institute for the Care of the Families of the Martyrs and the Wounded, the Palestine National Fund, and National Association of the Families of the Martyrs of Palestine.

• Foreign financial institutions that participate in a financial transaction that is part of the PLO and PA’s system of compensation supporting acts of terrorism. 

Boozman helps preserve memories of Arkansas veterans in Library of Congress Collection

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR), a champion of the Library of Congress Veterans History Project (VHP), presented interviews with Arkansans for preservation in the national collection. The new submissions mark more than 100 interviews conducted by Boozman’s office.

“The Veterans History Project is a unique collection of personal reflections that teaches our nation’s history from the perspective of those who have stood in defense of our freedoms. It also represents an opportunity for families to learn more about the selflessness of their loved ones, which is something I personally understand as the son of veteran of WWII who served in the Air Force for 23 years yet didn’t share much about his experiences in the military. This initiative preserves these patriotic Americans’ legacies so they live on for future generations. I’m honored to be part of this rewarding endeavor, ” Boozman said.

The senator submitted seven interviews conducted by his staff with veterans of the Cold War, Vietnam War, Desert Storm and War on Terror. 

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 raise awareness about this initiative. The senator regularly highlights the conversations in ‘Salute to Veterans,’ a series highlighting memories of their time in uniform. 

Senator Boozman meets with Veterans History Project Director Monica Mohindra to submit interviews with Arkansas veterans to the Library of Congress collection.

Attorney General Griffin names Arkansas chef to compete in 20th Annual Great American Seafood Cook-off

LITTLE ROCK – Attorney General Tim Griffin today issued the following statement announcing that he has nominated Executive Chef Payne Harding, owner of Cache restaurant in Little Rock, to represent Arkansas in the 20th Annual Great American Seafood Cook-Off on August 3, 2024, in New Orleans:

“Arkansas, with its abundance of quality ingredients and unique culinary traditions, has produced some of the best chefs around. I look forward to Chef Harding continuing the tradition of Arkansas chefs participating in this competition, which is hosted by my good friend Louisiana Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser.

“Chef Harding’s attention to detail—both in the running of Cache and his use of ingredients—has made his restaurant a ‘go-to’ place in Little Rock. I fully expect him to apply that same level of skill in this competition and help highlight the culinary excellence that Arkansas has to offer the nation.”

Harding opened Cache in 2014. He is a 2009 graduate of the University of Central Arkansas and a 2012 graduate of the Culinary Institute of America. He was also named a Certified Executive Chef by the American Culinary Federation in 2019.

Gov. Sanders and Col. Hagar release statement on arrest of illegal immigrant, following assault of ASP Trooper

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Today, Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders slammed Vice President Harris and President Joe Biden for their creation of the worst border crisis in American history and hailed two women as heroes for their quick action to stop an illegal immigrant who refused arrest and assaulted an ASPTrooper. 

Last night, a female Trooper engaged a suspect, Angel Zapet-Alvarado, an illegal immigrant from Guatemala, after he was speeding on I-49, who refused to exit the vehicle and resisted the Trooper’s efforts to remove him. A female motorist who witnessed the altercation stopped her vehicle and assisted the Trooper.

“These two women who put their lives on the line to make sure their communities are safe, are heroes and thanks to their quick, brave action, a criminal illegal immigrant is in custody and off the streets. Even though they deny it and the media covers it up, Joe Biden and Kamala Harris have created the worst border crisis in history and they must be held responsible,” said Gov. Sanders.

“I pray every day for the safety of our Troopers as they sacrifice their own safety for the sake of our innocent civilians. I thank God today that He kept our Trooper alive and that He placed an unbelievably brave civilian by her side during her time of need,” said Col. Mike Hagar. “I have the same fear and frustration any time someone assaults one of our Troopers, but it’s even more disturbing that this suspect is an undocumented, illegal immigrant from Guatemala. That shows another level of lawlessness that will not be tolerated in our state.”

Zapet-Alvarado was transported to Mercy Hospital Northwest Arkansas, where he was treated and released to law enforcement. He was transported to the Benton County Sheriff’s Office Detention Center and charged with Second-Degree Battery and placed on hold for Homeland Security Investigation (HSI). Additional charges are pending.

The Trooper was treated for non-life-threatening injuries she sustained when Zapet-Alvarado assaulted her.

ASP’s Criminal Investigation Division is investigating the incident.

Arkansas medical marijuana sales down 4% through June

by Michael Tilley (mtilley@talkbusiness.net)

Arkansas’ medical marijuana sales totaled $135.5 million in the first half of 2024, down from the $141 million in the same period of 2023, a year with record sales of $283 million, according to the state’s Department of Finance and Administration.

The Arkansas Department of Health reports 105,039 active patient cards as of July 23, up 7.9% compared with the 97,374 active patient cards as of Jan. 9. State tax revenue collection on medical marijuana during the second quarter was $7.9 million, bringing the total since the industry launched in 2019 to $136 million.

Taxes collected are 6.5% of regular state sales tax with each purchase by a patient and a 4% privilege tax on sales from cultivators to dispensaries. Most of the tax revenue is placed in the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences National Cancer Designation Trust Fund. The state also collects a cultivator privilege tax, which means tax revenue is not always tied to how much product is bought by consumers at dispensaries and the price for the product sold to dispensary customers.

Arkansas medical marijuana sales down 4% through June

Bass Reeves portrait to be on display in the Arkansas Capitol

by Michael Tilley (mtilley@talkbusiness.net)

Artists will soon be solicited to paint a portrait of Deputy U.S. Marshal Bass Reeves for display in the Arkansas Capitol building. Reeves will be the first African-American and first non-governor to have a portrait in the Capitol, according to the Arkansas Secretary of State’s office.

Reeves was a U.S. Deputy Marshal under U.S. Federal Judge Isaac C. Parker. Reeves was born a slave in Texas in 1838 and died in Muskogee, Okla., on Jan. 12, 1910. Reeves was an African-American and illiterate, but captured more outlaws than anyone else, according to the book, “Black Gun, Silver Star: The Life and Legend of Frontier Marshal Bass Reeves,” written by Art Burton. Burton wrote that Reeves was an expert tracker and detective, and was able to memorize the warrants for every lawbreaker he was to arrest and bring to trial. Reeves was the first African-American inducted into the Great Westerners Hall of the National Cowboy Hall of Fame in Oklahoma City in 1992.

A 25-foot tall monument of Bass Reeves was unveiled in downtown Fort Smith in May 2012. It was created by sculptor Harold T. Holden. The larger-than-life statue of Reeves also includes his horse, Blaze, and his trusty dog, named simply “Dog.”

Bass Reeves portrait to be on display in the Arkansas Capitol

Photo of Bass Reeves and his monument in downtown Fort Smith.

Attorney General investigating Fort Smith company for potential China connections

by Michael Tilley (mtilley@talkbusiness.net)

An investigation is underway on 4811 S. Zero Street LLC, in Fort Smith, a company state officials suspect has connections to Chinese foreign nationals who may want to be near the foreign military pilot training center at Ebbing Air National Guard Base in the city.

Arkansas Agriculture Secretary Wes Ward sent a letter dated July 23 to Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin asking him to investigate the company which was created June 14, with the incorporator being Pei-Te Lin. The company’s agent address is 300 S. Spring St., in Little Rock.

The building at 4811 S. Zero St., is the former Trane manufacturing plant that closed in 2017 and was recently sold in an auction. The building and property sold for $5 million, according to Sebastian County Assessor Zach Johnson.

Attorney General investigating Fort Smith company for potential China connections

Former Trane manufacturing plant at 4811 S.Zero St., in Fort Smith.

Attorney General Griffin Hails Decision in Title IX case as a win for Arkansas women and girls

LITTLE ROCK – Attorney General Tim Griffin today issued the following statement regarding the preliminary injunction issued by the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Missouri in Arkansas v. U.S. Department of Education halting the implementation of the Biden-Harris administration’s new rule interpreting Title IX:

“Today’s ruling is a victory for women and girls in Arkansas and across the nation as yet again a federal court has stopped the Biden-Harris administration from going around Congress to implement a ridiculous, nonsensical, and illegal election-year move.

“Congress enacted Title IX to protect and promote educational opportunities for women and girls. This preliminary injunction halts the administration’s plan to allow men into women’s and girls’ locker rooms, restrooms, and showers. It stops the administration’s plan to allow males onto girls’ sports teams. It also protects teachers, administrators, and students from the threat of investigation or sanction for disagreeing with the gender ideology of the Biden-Harris White House. And it comes just in time before the start of the new school year.

“I congratulate Solicitor General Nicholas Bronni and Deputy Solicitor General Dylan Jacobs for their diligence that led to today’s victory.”

Griffin filed the suit on May 7 and was joined by the attorneys general of Missouri, Iowa, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, and an Arkansas high-school athlete.

To read the order, click here.

To read the original lawsuit, click here.

Cotton, colleagues introduce bill to sanction non-citizens convicted of crimes while protesting

Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) today introduced the No Visas for Violent Criminals Act, legislation that would terminate any visa and require deportation within 60 days of any non-citizen convicted of a criminal offense during a protest. Senators Ted Budd (R-North Carolina) and Marsha Blackburn (R-Tennessee) are cosponsoring the legislation. Congressman Jim Banks (Indiana-03) is leading companion legislation in the House.

“The Biden administration’s inaction against pro-Hamas mobs has only emboldened these extremists. Our legislation makes clear that a green card does not give individuals the right to break our laws in support of anti-Semitic views,” said Senator Cotton.

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“For months, pro-Hamas rioters have terrorized communities across the U.S. without consequence. Foreigners who come here to spread antisemitism, block highways, and deface statues and other public property must be deported immediately. Senator Cotton’s and my bill would do exactly that,” said Congressman Banks.

Text of the bill may be found here.

The No Visas for Violent Criminals Act would immediately terminate any visa and require deportation within 60 days of any non-citizen convicted of:

• Any offense involving the obstruction of highways, roads, bridges, or tunnels.

• Any offense related to the individual’s conduct at and during the course of a protest that takes place at an institution of higher education or religious institution in the United States.

• Any offense involving the defacement or destruction of federal property (including but not limited to monuments and memorials). This also applies to any aggravated felony (as defined in 8 U.S.C. § 1101 (43)).