Sevier News

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VIDEO: U.S. Senator John Boozman at UA Cossatot De Queen Tuesday

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U.S. Senator John Boozman made a stop at our UA Cossatot De Queen campus on Tuesday afternoon to talk about the YouthBuild program, COVID-19, and the political climate in America, among other things. (Please excuse the audio issues during the first few minutes) The Senator will visit Ashdown later today and will be in Nashville on Wednesday.

Senior United States Senator for Arkansas, John Boozman, visited UA Cossatot's De Queen Campus on Tuesday, August 18, 2020. Senator Boozman met with UA Cossatot representatives to receive an update about the college and its programs. Local elected delegates were also invited to attend the private meeting to discuss issues, news, and accomplishments for Sevier County.

UA Cossatot Chancellor, Dr. Steve Cole, introduced Senator Boozman at the start of the meeting and welcomed him and his staff to the college. Dr. Cole informed everyone at the meeting that Senator Boozman was instrumental in UA Cossatot receiving the funding to start their new YouthBuild program, which officially began at UA Cossatot on Monday, August 17.

UA Cossatot YouthBuild Instructor, Steve McJunkins, provided an update to the senator about the program. McJunkins stated that they expect to have approximately ten students in the program this semester by the end of the week. In response to helping students during the current COVID-19 crisis, UA Cossatot has extended fall registration through this Friday, August 21, 2020. McJunkins added that they are also expecting a large number of students to enroll in the YouthBuild program in the spring, especially since they will have more time for student recruitment.

McJunkins explained that students in the program could choose two career pathways to gain employment. Students ages 16-24 accepted into the program will have the option to choose the Industrial Maintenance/Welding pathway or the Construction/Carpentry pathway. McJunkins stated both paths provide excellent skills training for the students and many benefits for their local communities.

UA Cossatot Director of Adult Education, Jennifer Black, thanked the senator for his help and involvement in helping UA Cossstot obtain only the second YouthBuild program in the state. Mrs. Black stated that students who are already enrolled in the program are working on achieving their OSHA 10 certification and CPR training in their first two weeks in the program to further their job opportunities.

The college's Vice-Chancellor of Academics, Dr. Ashley Aylett, provided an update about how the first week of fall classes are going at UA Cossatot and plans for the fall 2020 semester. Dr. Aylett shared that most courses that are not online this semester can easily transition to an online format if health and safety conditions worsen due to COVID-19. She also mentioned that UA Cossatot has personally reached out to each student to discuss any concerns or issues that they may have to help each student feel more comfortable this semester.

Senator Boozman received updates about the college's skilled and technical programs and an update on the college's agriculture program. UA Cossatot Agriculture Instructor, Kelli Harris said at the meeting that her students were adjusting well to embracing technology in their classes, and that they are very flexible.

"Technology is a great part of the future of agriculture. It is great for production and the environment, and I think it is great that UA Cossatot incorporates it in the classroom," said Senator Boozman.

When asked about the future of technical programs, Senator Boozman stated that these programs are the future. Senator Boozman said, "We need people in these careers as we move forward. These careers will lead to good jobs where individuals can support their families, and I appreciate UA Cossatot helping in that effort."

Senator Boozman congratulated UA Cossatot on its successful programs and said he plans to continue working with UA Cossatot to help Arkansas residents.

Dr. Cole and De Queen City Mayor, Jeff Brown also provided information about community news currently taking place. Mayor Brown said, "We do have families in our community that are struggling due to COVID-19. Thankfully, many people have shown support and offered assistance including our public schools. Our businesses in De Queen and throughout the county are doing well though. Our business owners have been doing a great job, and the community has chosen to support them."

Dr. Steve Cole mentioned that community leaders in Sevier County are encouraging more residents to respond to the U.S. Census, something Senator Boozman endorsed. "The U.S. Census is critical, and every person that is not counted is a loss," said Senator Boozman.

As the Chair of the Sevier County Hospital Board, Dr. Cole also provided an update about plans for the future Sevier County Medical Center to be built in De Queen. "In mid-October, an 18-month construction process will begin on the new hospital. The hospital is set to open in early 2022, and it will also provide approximately 113 new jobs," said Dr. Cole.

Senator Boozman showed his support for Sevier County's growth and stated that he would help introduce the Sevier County Hospital Board to grants and letters to help support the $1.2 million sewer project that will occur due to the new hospital location.

As the meeting ended, Senator Boozman thanked everyone for their excellent work. He mentioned that he looks forward to returning to UA Cossatot and working together with its employees and with local community members

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Wednesday's Arkansas Department of Health COVID-19 Case Numbers

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COVID-19 Metrics for Sevier County
Cases
  Total Positive: 1,074
  Active Positive: 67
  Recovered: 996
  Deaths: 11
  Negatives: 5,231

COVID-19 Metrics for Howard County
Cases
  Total Positive: 376
  Active Positive: 53
  Recovered: 319
  Deaths: 4
  Negatives: 2,950

COVID-19 Metrics for Little River County
Cases
  Total Positive: 227
  Active Positive: 36
  Recovered: 187
  Deaths: 4
  Negatives: 1,355

COVID-19 Metrics for Polk County
Cases
  Total Positive: 177
  Active Positive: 37
  Recovered: 139
  Deaths: 1
  Negatives: 2,796

COVID-19 Metrics for Pike County
Cases
  Total Positive: 146
  Active Positive: 44
  Recovered: 101
  Deaths: 1
  Negatives: 1,604

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Tuesday's COVID-19 Updates

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COVID-19 Metrics for Sevier County
Cases
  Total Positive: 1,067
  Active Positive: 70
  Recovered: 986
  Deaths: 11
  Negatives: 5,206

COVID-19 Metrics for Howard County
Cases
  Total Positive: 376
  Active Positive: 55
  Recovered: 317
  Deaths: 4
  Negatives: 2,938

COVID-19 Metrics for Little River County
Cases
  Total Positive: 219
  Active Positive: 35
  Recovered: 181
  Deaths: 3
  Negatives: 1,354

COVID-19 Metrics for Polk County
Cases
  Total Positive: 171
  Active Positive: 35
  Recovered: 135
  Deaths: 1
  Negatives: 2,767

COVID-19 Metrics for Pike County
Cases
  Total Positive: 144
  Active Positive: 45
  Recovered: 98
  Deaths: 1
  Negatives: 1,595

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Weekly Update from State Representative DeAnn Vaught

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Beginning in-person school again in Arkansas is not easy. A lot has changed since March 2020. Everyone has a lot of questions.

In an effort to help answer questions from educators and parents, the Arkansas Department of Education has made new resources available.

This week, the department released the Arkansas Ready to Learn Healthy School Guide. We have posted a copy on our website www.arkansashouse.org .

Home - Arkansas House of Representatives

ARGIRLSLEAD #ARGIRLSLEAD is a movement started by women serving in the Arkansas House. Each of them have a unique story to share about their journey on the road to their current leadership position. Kids In The House Who says civics can't be fun?

The guide was written and assembled by a team of medical, behavioral health, and education experts from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Arkansas Children’s, the Arkansas Department of Health, the Arkansas Division of Elementary and Secondary Education, and partners. The goal of the guide is to bring together good health information.

This information includes the latest scientific advice, guidelines, and best practices. Every school is different. This guide can help school officials, educators, and families plan for in-person learning.

In addition to the guide, the Arkansas Department of Education has established a Ready for School Resource Call Center. The purpose of the call center is to provide Arkansans with information and resources regarding the reopening of schools. The Ready for School Resource Help Line: 1-833-353-6050.

The Help Line is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. Bilingual support is available. The Help Line is made possible through a partnership between the Arkansas Department of Education and the Arkansas Department of Health, Arkansas Bilingual Resource Network, Arkansas Children’s, Republic of the Marshall Islands Consulate, and UAMS.

The Arkansas Department of Health and Arkansas Department of Education also have a hotline available for school district and school questions about:

• Students or staff who may have COVID-19

• How to isolate students or staff so they don’t spread the virus if they have it

• How to quarantine people who may be close contacts to students or staff who may have COVID-19

The ADH and ADE hotline number: 1-833-504-0155.

The Department of Education is making decisions every day. Some decisions may change as we learn new information about the virus that causes COVID-19. We will continue to pass along information as it becomes available.

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Being Social is Good for your Health

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Did you know being social is good for your health?

Research has found that being socially active is as equally healthy as quitting smoking or exercise. In a study published in the journal PLoS Medicine, BYU professors Julianne Holt-Lunstad and Timothy Smith report people with stronger social relationships had a 50% increased likelihood of survival than those with weaker social relationships.

"When someone is connected to a group and feels responsibility for other people, that sense of purpose and meaning translates to taking better care of themselves and taking fewer risks," Holt-Lunstad said.

"This effect is not isolated to older adults," Smith said. "Relationships provide a level of protection across all ages."

Extension Homemakers Club (EHC) members not only benefit from being socially active they also gain knowledge and skills through monthly program topics, special interest workshops and project activities. Members come up with ideas for programs, which are developed cooperatively with the Extension agent to meet interests. Education is a character builder! A lifelong process that is never finished. Arkansas Extension Homemakers Council (AEHC) members keep up to date in these rapidly changing times through lessons on all phases of family living and special interest topics presented by speakers, educators and other club members.

In addition to being social and educated, they also give back to their community by choosing a yearly volunteer service project according to their interests.

And, of course, we like to have fun, too!

EHC members are just like you! They work, shop, and sit next to you at ballgames. They like to learn everything from A to Z to better themselves for their families, neighborhoods and for their community. They are young and old, men and women, working or retired. They come from diverse backgrounds and a rich history. They’ve come a long way from the home demonstration era of the 1900's.

Gather your friends and give us a call. We currently have two clubs that would love to have new members, but we would be happy to start a new club just for you and your friends! Their meeting schedules are:

DeQueen EHC - 2nd Wednesday each month - REA Building in DeQueen at 9:30 a.m.

Gillham EHC – 2nd Friday each month - members’ homes in Gillham at 10:00 a.m.

For more information, please contact Janet Cantrell, Sevier County Extension Agent-Family and Consumer Sciences at 870-584-3013 or jcantrell@uaex.edu.

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Students Are Back Today for the Beginning of the Fall Semester at UA Cossatot Campuses

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Welcome back! First day of the fall semester at UA Cossatot with indoor, outdoor, and online classes. Fall registration continues thru tomorrow, Tuesday, August 18th, at 4:00 pm. For more info, check out our website, www.cccua.edu or call us at (870) 584-4471.

Students preparing for Lynze Greathouse's Monday morning class on the De Queen campus.

Students preparing for Lynze Greathouse's Monday morning class on the De Queen campus.

Kelli Harris' agri students took advantage of the mild August morning temps to start their first day of the Fall 2020 semester!

Kelli Harris' agri students took advantage of the mild August morning temps to start their first day of the Fall 2020 semester!

Hayden Harp and Quinshaun Bennett-Hale log on at the ERC.

Hayden Harp and Quinshaun Bennett-Hale log on at the ERC.

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Bill and Nancy Wilson Scholarship to Ismael Montero

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The UA Cossatot Foundation is excited to highlight Ismael Montero as a 2020-2021 scholarship recipient of the Bill and Nancy Wilson Scholarship. Ismael is a 2020 De Queen High School graduate. This scholarship awards full tuition and general fees for the fall and spring semester. Please help us congratulate Ismael!

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COVID-19 Maps and Numbers for Monday

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COVID-19 Metrics for Sevier County
Cases
  Total Positive: 1,058
  Active Positive: 69
  Recovered: 978
  Deaths: 11
  Negatives: 5,110

COVID-19 Metrics for Howard County
Cases
  Total Positive: 374
  Active Positive: 55
  Recovered: 315
  Deaths: 4
  Negatives: 2,701

COVID-19 Metrics for Little River County
Cases
  Total Positive: 218
  Active Positive: 37
  Recovered: 178
  Deaths: 3
  Negatives: 1,330

COVID-19 Metrics for Polk County
Cases
  Total Positive: 161
  Active Positive: 26
  Recovered: 134
  Deaths: 1
  Negatives: 2,715

COVID-19 Metrics for Pike County
Cases
  Total Positive: 140
  Active Positive: 48
  Recovered: 91
  Deaths: 1
  Negatives: 1,517

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Sunday's COVID-19 Numbers and Maps

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COVID-19 Metrics for Sevier County
Cases
  Total Positive: 1,053
  Active Positive: 68
  Recovered: 974
  Deaths: 11
  Negatives: 5,096

COVID-19 Metrics for Howard County
Cases
  Total Positive: 367
  Active Positive: 54
  Recovered: 309
  Deaths: 4
  Negatives: 2,691

COVID-19 Metrics for Little River County
Cases
  Total Positive: 215
  Active Positive: 40
  Recovered: 172
  Deaths: 3
  Negatives: 1,323

COVID-19 Metrics for Polk County
Cases
  Total Positive: 159
  Active Positive: 25
  Recovered: 133
  Deaths: 1
  Negatives: 2,681

COVID-19 Metrics for Pike County
Cases
  Total Positive: 138
  Active Positive: 48
  Recovered: 89
  Deaths: 1
  Negatives: 1,508

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Governor Hutchinson’s Weekly Address | Leveling the Broadband Playing Field

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LITTLE ROCK – COVID-19 has highlighted some of the shortcomings of our broadband connectivity, but the pandemic also has created opportunities for us to accelerate our expansion of internet service, which I’d like to talk about today.

Earlier this year, I created a steering committee to study our needs and recommend the best use of federal money that is returning to the state through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act, also known as the CARES Act. The members of the committee recognized that many rural communities in our state are in dire need of better access to high-speed internet.

Senate President Jim Hendren and House Speaker Matthew Shepherd of the General Assembly advocated for the expenditure of $100 million for Arkansas Rural Connect, a great program to assist our local communities in expanding internet access.

The coronavirus has limited many of our normal activities, such as attending school and visiting a doctor. The internet has allowed us to adapt to the difficulties. Without effective broadband, many Arkansans would not be able to adapt and access distance learning or keep a telemedicine appointment with a doctor.

The state has made grants to seven companies: $1.6 million to Arkansas Telephone Company to serve parts of Fairfield Bay; $1.9 million to Pinnacle Communications for parts of Ozark; $2 million to CableSouth Media 3 to serve Lonoke and $2 million for Hamburg; $449,000 was granted to Premier Holdings for Nashville; Hillbilly Wireless will receive $497,000 for Cotton Plant and another $804,000 for Cave City. Magazine Telephone Company will receive a little more than a million dollars in non-CARES Act money for Magazine.

In another of our ongoing efforts to expand broadband service, the legislature created the Rural Broadband I.D. Expenses Trust Fund. This money is being awarded as one-time grants to help service providers meet rigorous requirements for due diligence for large federal grant programs with the United States Department of Agriculture and the Federal Communications Commission.

Rural Broadband I.D. is based at UAMS’s Office of Digital Health and Innovation. With Rural Broadband I.D., we are deploying a broader and more detailed strategy for expanding broadband across the most rural parts of our state.

Broadband service must download at a rate of at least 25 megabits per second and upload at 3 megabits per second, which would load a normal song in one second and a two-hour movie in 10 minutes.

Broadband at these speeds will level the playing field as we compete on a global scale. Arkansans in rural communities will have access to the same information and services as people in Fort Smith and Fayetteville.

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Book Aims to Ease Kids' Fears of Masked Teachers

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To help little ones cope with fears that may come with having an instructor with a partially covered face, Arkansas State University Childhood Services and the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences partnered to create an informational book called My Teacher Wears a Mask. The book helps children understand the mask is for safety and contains activities adults can complete with kids to help them feel more comfortable with masks.

https://www.kuaf.com/post/book-aims-ease-kids-fears-masked-teachers

Book Aims to Ease Kids' Fears of Masked Teachers

To help little ones cope with fears that may come with having an instructor with a partially-covered face, Arkansas State University Childhood Services and the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences partnered to create an informational book called My Teacher Wears a Mask .


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Friday's COVID-19 Updated Numbers and Maps

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COVID-19 Metrics for Sevier County
Cases
  Total Positive: 1,017
  Active Positive: 48
  Recovered: 958
  Deaths: 11
  Negatives: 4,588

COVID-19 Metrics for Howard County
Cases
  Total Positive: 362
  Active Positive: 55
  Recovered: 303
  Deaths: 4
  Negatives: 2,593

COVID-19 Metrics for Little River County
Cases
  Total Positive: 193
  Active Positive: 27
  Recovered: 164
  Deaths: 2
  Negatives: 1,244

COVID-19 Metrics for Polk County
Cases
  Total Positive: 157
  Active Positive: 22
  Recovered: 134
  Deaths: 1
  Negatives: 2,366

COVID-19 Metrics for Pike County
Cases
  Total Positive: 126
  Active Positive: 41
  Recovered: 84
  Deaths: 1
  Negatives: 2,953

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