Logan Dallas, Lizbeth Hernandez, Valentin Hernandez & Alondro Calderon
Monday Southwest Arkansas' COVID-19 Case Numbers and Maps
COVID-19 Metrics for Sevier County
Total Active Cases: 52
Active Confirmed Cases: 6
Active Probable Cases: 46
COVID-19 Metrics for Howard County
Total Active Cases: 28
Active Confirmed Cases: 9
Active Probable Cases: 19
COVID-19 Metrics for Little River County
Total Active Cases: 13
Active Confirmed Cases: 6
Active Probable Cases: 7
COVID-19 Metrics for Polk County
Total Active Cases: 26
Active Confirmed Cases: 22
Active Probable Cases: 4
COVID-19 Metrics for Pike County
Total Active Cases: 33
Active Confirmed Cases: 23
Active Probable Cases: 10
Apply Now for UA Cossatot Scholarships
The 2021-2022 UA Cossatot Online Scholarship Application is open! The scholarship application can be found here: cccua.awardspring.com
We currently have a variety of scholarships open for spring 2021! Check them out here: https://www.cccua.edu/pay-for-college/scholarships
UA Cossatot Receives $400,587 Grant For Fiber Upgrades At The Lockesburg Campus And For Virtual Reality Welding Simulators
WASHINGTON, Feb. 25, 2021 – The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced it is investing $42.3 million to help rural residents gain access to health care and educational opportunities (PDF, 255 KB). Rural areas are seeing higher infection and death rates related to COVID-19 due to several factors, including a much higher percentage of underlying conditions, difficulty accessing medical care, and lack of health insurance. The $42.3 million in awards includes $24 million provided through the CARES Act. In total, these investments will benefit 5 million rural residents.
As part of this program, UA Cossatot has been awarded $400,587. This Rural Development investment will be used to implement a distance learning system with virtual reality welding simulators at five rural sites in Sevier, Little River and Howard counties. The system will allow Cossatot Community College to offer distance learning skilled sciences courses to additional rural students at multiple locations. The grant will fund network fiber upgrades at Cossatot’s Lockesburg campus . The college expects to train 30 students in welding technology at five end-user sites annually. The equipment also will be available for special training sessions in evenings and on weekends for workers and industry partners.
UAC Chancellor Steve Cole said, "We will be receiving $400,000 to pilot, beginning next school year, a virtual welding program that will link our four campuses and Dierks High School. We are excited to see the success we can have if we keep being progressive and proactive when it comes to technical education. This will allow students to access a welding learning environment from a distance, ensuring we can continue to teach students even if they are quarantined or live in extremely remote areas. We look forward to putting this in motion."
LIVE VIDEO: Sevier County Quorum Court Meeting Friday, 02/26/21
UA Cossatot Drawdown Set for April 2nd
UA Cossatot will host TWO drawdowns for UA Cossatot’s Colts and Lady Colts! The drawdowns will be held on Friday, April 2, 2021. The first drawdown starts at 5:30 PM and the second drawdown at 7:30 PM at the UA Cossatot Bank of Lockesburg Gymnasium. Loren Hinton and Jon Bunyard will emcee the event. Head Coach and Athletic Director, Robert Byrd and the entire Colts and Lady Colts teams will be in attendance to root on each ticket holder!
How does a Drawdown work?
Tickets are eliminated until only one is left. The last ticket on the board is the winner of the Drawdown prize. The last ten (10) people holding tickets are given the option to keep drawing and eliminating tickets or to split the money among themselves. All must agree to split or keep drawing until they all agree or only one is left as the winner. Winner does not have to be present to win.
Why would you want to buy a $50 Drawdown Ticket?
· With only 120 tickets being sold per drawdown, each ticket has a 1 in 120 chance of winning $2,500!
· Each ticket includes a delicious fried fish dinner for 2 (can take order to-go)
· Fun fellowship with friends and excitement to see whose ticket is drawn next (Can also watch on Facebook live from home)!
· Door prizes
· Proceeds benefit the UA Cossatot Colts and Lady Colts
How do I buy a ticket?
Tickets are available by contacting Dustin Roberts at 870-584-1172 or email droberts@cccua.edu. Tickets can also be purchased online by texting the word Cossatot to 41444 or by clicking this link: igfn.us/form/M9JcFg
We accept cash, check, or credit card!
Health Talk with Dr. Randy Walker of De Queen
De Queen Soccer Discussion
Friday COVID-19 Update from the Arkansas Department of Health
Governor Asa Hutchinson provided today's update on Arkansas's COVID-19 response.
In its Thursday update, the Arkansas Department of Health reported 726 new cases; 4,720 active cases; 522 hospitalized, which is up 26 from Wednesday; 108 on ventilators, which is up 8 from Wednesday; deaths added today, 10, for a total of 5,397; a total of 318,122 cases; 243,843 recoveries; PCR tests, 8,548; antigen tests, 1,182.
The Health Department reported that the top counties for new cases are Pulaski, 74; Benton, 71; Garland, 61; Washington, 54; and Hot Spring, 35.
Governor Hutchinson released the following statement on today’s COVID-19 numbers:
"We continue to vaccinate Arkansans at a high level. I want to give credit to our staff at the Department of Health, Col. Ator and all our provider partners for their tireless efforts to ensure we can get vaccines into the arms of Arkansans. If Johnson & Johnson's single-dose vaccine is approved, it will provide another tool in our arsenal in the fight against COVID-19."
Here are today's COVID-19 statewide numbers:
Here are today's COVID-19 vaccine statewide numbers:
COVID-19 Metrics for Sevier County
Total Active Cases: 54
Active Confirmed Cases: 9
Active Probable Cases: 45
COVID-19 Metrics for Howard County
Total Active Cases: 26
Active Confirmed Cases: 6
Active Probable Cases: 20
COVID-19 Metrics for Little River County
Total Active Cases: 10
Active Confirmed Cases: 4
Active Probable Cases: 6
COVID-19 Metrics for Polk County
Total Active Cases: 30
Active Confirmed Cases: 24
Active Probable Cases: 6
COVID-19 Metrics for Pike County
Total Active Cases: 36
Active Confirmed Cases: 21
Active Probable Cases: 15
UA Cossatot Releases Fall 2020 Honor Students and List of Graduates
PRESS RELEASE
183 College Drive, De Queen, AR 71832
870-584-1124
www.cccua.edu
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 24 February 2021
CONTACT: Ben Renfrow, Marketing Coordinator
UA Cossatot Releases Fall 2020 Honor Students and List of Graduates
The University of Arkansas Cossatot Office of the Registrar releases fall 2020 Chancellor’s List and Vice Chancellor’s List as well as the names of the fall 2020 graduates.
100 students were named to the Chancellor’s list maintaining a minimum of 4.0 semester GPA while taking a minimum of twelve college credit hours. 78 students were named on the Vice Chancellor’s list maintaining a minimum of a 3.5 semester GPA while taking a minimum of twelve college credit hours.
The UA Cossatot Fall 2020 Chancellor’s List Includes:
Amity: Destiny Bright and Hannah Coffman
Ashdown: John Turner, Kasey Barton, Mackynze Dollarhide, Breana Noble, and Paige Smith
Ben Lomond: Molly Parker
Buckner: Maegan Taylor
Cove: Sophie Jackson
Delight: Camri Kirkham
De Queen: Carlos Aparicio, Guillermo Boquin, Israel Bustamante, Elvis Castro, Ashley Contreras, Kynnedi France, Johnny Guerrero, Maya Hallman, Patrick Hanson, Liliana Hernandez, Haylee Leeper, Jeffrey Manns, Brenda Mera Leon, Ismael Montero, Fernando Morales, America Pulido-Rojas, Giovany Salgado, Sydney Thistlethwaite, Alan Villamil, Brian Mckinney, Sondra Reynolds, Nohemi Carreon, Ana Martinez, Jose
Martinez, Lesly Herndez, Lysia Lovell, Abel Resendiz, Magali Cornelio, Vanessa Hernandez, Miguel Montero, Jasmine Montiel, Guillermo Ramirez, Angeles Rojas-Duran, and Jorge Soto Ramirez
Dierks: Brayden Buck, Jace Jackson, Savannah Morris, Aiden Oglesby, Jaycee Runnels, Jauger Spray, Blayn Turner, and Haylin Halcombe
Foreman: Johnny Carter and Kori Southerland
Gillham: Andrew Shelton
Glenwood: Vivian Angeles and Vasti Hernandez
Grannis: Brandon Marrufo
Horatio: Carson Brackett, Bryan Carrillo, Ryne Ernest, Austin House, Grace Wagner, and Alberto Sandoval
Idabel: Andrea Linville
Lockesburg: Hannah Fisher, Hannah Norman, Garrett Sharp, and Trent Sharp
Mena: Joshua Swint
Mineral Springs: Marquise Bryant and Kasia Ragland
Murfreesboro: Hope Littles
Nashville: Jonathon Claiborne, Audri Couch, Caiden Erwin, Lacie Grace, Dennis Guzman, Jacquelyn Howard, Adam Nix, Anna Rhodes, Heidi Buck, Amber Hampton, Marcus Luester, Lizbeth Hernandez, Kymberly Stanek
New Boston: David Balderas
Newhope: Jewel Bennett
Ozan: La Shonna Cooper and David Tozcano
Prescott: Jacob Ojeda
Royal: Aubree Gauldin
Texarkana: Charles Wise
Umpire: Christopher Moore
Winthrop: Benjamin Hendrix
The UA Cossatot Fall 2020 Vice Chancellor’s List Includes:
Amity: Randi Markham
Ashdown: Benjamin Adkison, Jaden Altenbaumer, Ty Buchanan, Jaliana Clinton, Andeligh Patrick, Spencer Patterson, Kentarian Williams, Susan Hill, David Mitchell, Colby Dellinger, and Weston Lawrence
Delight: Amy Campbell, Daniel Golden, Bobbie Craig
De Queen: Kaylee Brooks, Abbygail Ponce, Brayan Ramirez, Madison Runnels, Mikayla Scott, Ethan Wolcott, Jennifer Garibay, Misty Goings, Jessica Swan, Kelli Bahena, Jaramillo Carlos, Jordan Rogers, Willie White, Aracely Ortiz, Kendra Rodriguez, and Angela Vertiz
Dierks: Chantal Alonso, Ali Barfield, Elian Hernandez, Cason Launius, Ashley Jackson, and Heather Lovewell
Fayetteville: Destiny Jackson
Fouke: Kristen Sewell
Garvin: Hannah Honey
Hope: Shelby Pogue
Horatio: Nicole Pierce and Amanda Taylor
Little Rock: James Abbott
McCaskill: Cameron Lane, Jorge Torres, Corta Young
Mena: Cadie Cannon
Mineral Springs: William McAlister, Brooklyn Nutt, Jaselyn Sirmon, and Matthew Stone
Murfreesboro: Kyla Collins and Jessica Parker
Nashville: La Tambra Anderson, Zachary Backus, Alexis Byers, Sarah Cobb, Tyler Gordon, Kendra Miller, Diana Morris, Reif Nolte, Mattison Steele, Wyatt Talley, Kinsey Westfall, Decen Barton, Maya Fant, Takela Stewart, and Shalene Cardenas
Newhope: Alleigh Tucker
Star City: Megan Lovelis
Texarkana: Shannon Burkland, Crystal Morgan, and Coleman Newberry
Wickes: Miguel Ortiz
Winthrop: Autumn Hofmann
22 students graduate with Summa Cum Laude honors, meaning that they graduate with a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.9 to 4.0. 15 students graduate with Magna Cum Laude honors meaning that they graduated with a cumulative GPA of 3.75 to 3.89. 19 students graduate with Cum Laude honors meaning that they graduate with a cumulative GPA of 3.5 to 3.74.
Students graduating fall 2020 with Summa Cum Laude Honors:
Allyson Braley of Nash, Israel Bustamante of De Queen, Bryan Carrillo of Horatio, Johnny Carter Jr. of Foreman, Jesus Cisneros of De Queen, Alondra Galvez of Lockesburg, Haylin Holcombe of Dierks, Amber Hampton of Nashville, Rhonda Harton of Prairie Grove, Luis Herrera of De Queen, Riley House of Delight, Brandon Marrufo of Grannis, Sebastian Medina of Wickes, Damara Milianta – Peterson of Long Lake, Jordan Myers of Arkadelphia, Adam Nix of Nashville, Spencer Reed of Ashdown, Giovany Salgado of De Queen, Alberto Sandoval of Horatio, Garrett Sharp of Lockesburg, Andrew Shelton of Gillham, and Ronnie Willis of Horatio.
Students graduating fall 2020 with Magna Cum Laude Honors:
Allie Anderson of Ashdown, Carlos Aparicio of De Queen, Clayton Ashmore of Mineral Springs, Eduardo Benitez Jr. of De Queen, Sarah Carnes of Texarkana, Maria Dominguez Cuellar of De Queen, Lauren Gay of Prescott, Julie Gomez of De Queen, Orlando Herrera of De Queen, Destiny Jackson of Fayetteville, Talia Lambert of Springdale, Jasmine Montiel of De Queen, Connor Pearce of e Queen, Amitshaidet Victorio Bahena of De Queen, and Krista Womack of Ashdown.
Students graduating fall 2020 with Cum Laude Honors:
Morgan Allen of Dierks, Chantal Alonso of Dierks, Denise Angelese of Horatio, David Balderas of Ogden, Linda Carlisle of De Queen, Madison Falgout of Nash, Trinity Geierman, Susan Hill of Ashdown,
Brittany Jones of Texarkana, Karina Lopez-Balderas of Gillham, Juan Montero of De Queen, Tyeisha Nelson Shoals of Foreman, Miguel Ortiz of Wickes, Kailee Parker of Nashville, Jerardo Perez of De Queen, Saleni Rojas-Duran of De Queen, Ashley Smallwood of De Queen, Ashley Thompson of Ashdown, and Blayn Turner of Dierks.
238 students graduate with a certificate of proficiency, technical certificate, or associate degree. Some students earned multiple certificates and degrees allowing for 373 fall 2020 awards.
UA Cossatot Students Graduating Fall 2020 Include (Listed with Highest Degree(s) Earned):
Amity: Sean Palavicini, Certificate of Proficiency: MIG Welding and Kaitlen Reid, Certificate of Proficiency: Emergency Medical Technician
Arkadelphia: Jordan Myers, Technical Certificate: General Studies
Ashdown: Allie Anderson, Associate of Applied Science: Physical Therapy Assistant; Zack Bertling, Certificate of Proficiency: SMAW Welding, Ty Buchanan, Technical Certificate: Welding; Keara Cross, Associate of General Studies; Mychelle Crussell, Associate of Applied Science: Registered Nursing; Colby Dellinger, Certificate of Proficiency: Mechanical Devices; Christopher M. Dunn, Technical Certificate: Welding; Susan Hill, Associate of Applied Science: Administrative Assistant; Braden Jackson, Certificate of Proficiency: Mechanical Devices; Jade Kendrick, Associate of Science: Teaching: K-6; Madison Mills, Associate of Science: Criminal Justice; Samantha Moss, Technical Certificate: General Studies; Alia Oliver, Certificate of Proficiency: Medical Transcription; Alexander Parson, Associate of Applied Science: Registered Nursing; Spencer Reed, Associate of General Studies; Dara Sivley, Technical Certificate: General Studies; Timothy Smith, Certificate of Proficiency: Engine Repair and Climate Control; James Sullivan, Certificate of Proficiency: Mechanical Devices; Matthew Swilley, Certificate of Proficiency: MIG Welding; Ashley Thompson, Associate of Applied Science: Physical Therapy Assistant; Kentarian Williams, Certificate of Proficiency: SMAW Welding; Kristi Williams, Certificate of Proficiency: Emergency Medical Technician; and Krista Womack, Technical Certificate: Medical Assisting
Ben Lomond: Matthew Harrison, Certificate of Proficiency: Mechanical Devices
Blevins: Ernan Gomez, Certificate of Proficiency: Industrial Motor Controls; and Katzumi Venegas Technical Certificate: Cosmetology
Castor: Angela Rushing, Associate of Applied Science: Registered Nursing
Delight: Riley House, Associate of Applied Science: Physical Therapy Assistant.
De Queen: Carlos Aparicio, Associate of Science: Teaching: K-6; William Athey, Certificate of Proficiency: Fluid Power; Anthony Behena, Certificate of Proficiency: Brakes, Suspension, and Steering; Eduardo Benitez Jr., Associate of Applied Science: General Technology; Hector Blanco, Certificate of Proficiency: Engine Repair and Climate Control; Guillermo Boquin, Certificate of Proficiency: Engine Repair and Climate Control; Israel Bustamante, Technical Certificate: Welding; Mackenzie Cardenas , Technical Certificate: General Studies; Linda Carlisle, Associate of Applied Science: Registered Nursing; Yuliani Castillo, Technical Certificate: Medical Assisting; Elvis Castro, Certificate of Proficiency: SMAW Welding; Dillon Cheater, Technical Certificate: General Studies; David Cisneros, Certificate of Proficiency: SMAW Welding; Jesus Cisneros, Associate of Arts; Magali Cornelio, Certificate of Proficiency: Pipe Welding SMAW; Johnny Daley Jr., Certificate of Proficiency: TIG Welding; Maria Guadalupe, Associate of General Studies, Trinity Geierman, Technical Certificate: Health Professions; Julie Gomez, Technical Certificate: General Studies; Adrian Gonzalez, Certificate of Proficiency: SMAW welding, Jarel Gonzalez, Certificate of Proficiency: Engine Repair and Climate Control; Guadalupe Guerrero, Technical Certificate: General Studies; Johnny Guerro, Certificate of Proficiency: Engine Repair and Climate Control; Patrick Hanson, Certificate of Proficiency: Diesel Engines; Alexis Hernandez, Associate of Science: Business; Jonathon Hernandez, Certificate of Proficiency: Brakes, Suspension, and Steering; Jose Hernandez, Certificate of Proficiency: TIG Welding, Lissette Hernandez, Associate of General Studies; Marisol Hernandez, Technical Certificate: Health Professions; Luis Herrera, Associate of Applied Science: Physical Therapy Assistant; Orlando Herrera, Technical Certificate: Automotive Service Technology; Jared Hickson, Certificate of Proficiency: Brakes, Suspension, and Steering; Blake Lacefield, Certificate of Proficiency; Brakes, Suspension, and Steering; Eda Lopez, Associate of Applied Science; General Technology, Toni Manzella, Associate of Applied Science:
Occupational Therapy Assistant; Aaron Martinez, Certificate of Proficiency: Pipe Welding SMAW; Jose Martinez, Associate of Applied Science: Registered Nursing; Leonardo Martinez, Certificate of Proficiency: Mechanical Devices; Brian McKinney, Certificate of Proficiency: Engine Repair, and Climate Control; Juan Montero, Associate of Applied Science: General Technology; Jasmine Montiel, Associate of Applied Science: Criminal Justice; Fernando Morales, Certificate of Proficiency: Engine Performance: Cristopher Munoz, Certificate of Proficiency: Pipe Welding GMAW/ FCAW; Connor Pearce, Technical Certificate: Diesel Technology; Jerardo Perez, Technical Certificate: Welding; Diana Ramirez, Associate of General Studies; Guillermo Ramirez, Certificate of Proficiency: TIG Welding; Brency Ramirez Torres, Associate of Science: Business; Abel Resendiz, Technical Certificate: Welding; Tori Roberson, Certificate of Proficiency; Accounting; Saleni Rojas-Duran, Associate of Science: Business; Carlos Rojo Jr., Certificate of Proficiency: Diesel Brakes; Giovany Salgado, Technical Certificate: Pipe Welding; Misael Sanches, Certificate of Proficiency: Brakes, Suspension, and Steering; Yesenia Sanchez, Associate of Applied Science: Registered Nursing; Ashley Smallwood, Associate of Applied Science: Registered Nursing; Zuleyma Sotelo, Technical Certificate: Administrative Assistant; Jorge Luis Soto Ramirez, Certificate of Proficiency: Pipe Welding SMAW; Ulyses Tepozotlan, Certificate of Proficiency: Mechanical Devices; Ariel Varela, Associate of General Studies; Randy Valazquez, Certificate of Proficiency: TIG Welding; Amitshaidet Victorio Bahena, Associate of Science: Teaching K-6; and Alan Villamil, Certificate of Proficiency: Engine Repair and Climate Control
Dierks: Morgan Allen, Associate of Applied Science: Occupational Therapy Assistant; Chantel Alonso, Associate of Applied Science: Accounting; Melodee Archer, Technical Certificate: Health Professions; Brayden Buck, Certificate of Proficiency: Mechanical Devices; Jarod Cogburn, Certificate of Proficiency: Industrial Motor Controls; Haylin Halcombe, Associate of Arts; Elian Hernandez, Certificate of Proficiency: Mechanical Devices, Ashley Jackson, Associate of Applied Science: Administrative Assistant; Jace Jackson, Certificate of Proficiency: Mechanical Devices; Aiden Oglesby, Certificate of Proficiency: Mechanical Devices; Jauger Spray, Certificate of Proficiency: Diesel Brakes; and Blayn Turner, Associate of General Studies
Dubach: Jalyn Crellin, Associate of Applied Science: Registered Nursing
Eagletown: Kody Underwood, Associate of Applied Science: Registered Nursing
El Dorado: Tracie Ford, Associate of Applied Science: Registered Nursing
Fayetteville: Destiny Jackson, Associate of Science: Psychology
Foreman: Thomas Butler, Associate of Science: STEM, Johnny Carter Jr., Technical Certificate of General Studies; Kristan Mauger, Certificate of Proficiency: Medical Transcription; Tyeisha Nelson Shoals, Technical Certificate: Medical Assisting; Parker Smith, Certificate of Proficiency: Mechanical Devices; Savannah Townsend, Associate of General Studies
Fouke: Myka Lemley, Associate of Applied Science: Physical Therapy Assistant; Alyssa Sinyard, Associate of Applied Science: Registered Nursing
Fulton: Summer King, Technical Certificate: Medical Assisting
Gillham: Karina Lopez-Balderas, Technical Certificate: General Studies; Caterra Morphew, Technical Certificate: Health Professions; Jeff Overturf, Certificate of Proficiency: MIG Welding; Andrew Shelton, Technical Certificate: Welding; Vanessa Whitney, Associate of Applied Science: Registered Nursing; and Travis Yarbrough, Certificate of Proficiency: Brakes, Suspension, and Steering
Grannis: Brent Craver, Certificate of Proficiency: Pipe Welding GTAW; Brandon Marrudo, Technical Certificate: Welding; Brently Morris, Certificate of Proficiency: Brakes, Suspension, and Steering
Homer: Sharonda Shelton, Associate of Applied Science: Registered Nursing
Horatio: Denise Angeles, Technical Certificate: General Studies; Collin Blackmon, Associate of Science: Business; Carson Brackett, Certificate of Proficiency: Mechanical Devices; Bryan Carrillo, Technical Certificate: Pipe Welding; Orey Chandler, Certificate of Proficiency: TIG Welding; Brandon Delgado, Certificate of Proficiency: MIG Welding; Javian Hernandez Jr., Certificate of Proficiency: Mechanical Devices; Manuel Hernandez, Certificate of Proficiency: Mechanical Devices; Manuel Hernandez, Certificate of Proficiency: Mechanical Devices; Austin House, Certificate of Proficiency: SMAW Welding Adrian Patlan, Certificate of Proficiency: Mechanical Devices; Brittaney Salgado, Technical Certificate: General Studies; Alberto Sandoval, Technical Certificate: Pipe Welding; Amanda Taylor, Certificate of Proficiency: Accounting;
Marco Tinajero, Certificate of Proficiency: Mechanical Devices; Jacob Trusley, Certificate of Proficiency: Brakes, Suspension, and Steering; Ronnie Willis, Associate of Applied Science: General Technology
Idabel: Erica Ristrim, Certificate of Proficiency: Medical Transcription
Kirby: Elica Vasquez, Certificate of Proficiency: Medical Transcription
Lewisville: Lacey Morton, Associate of Applied Science: Physical Therapy Assistant
Lockesburg: Cheyenne Ballard, Associate of Applied Science: Registered Nursing; Landon Brackett, Certificate of Proficiency: Mechanical Devices; Blayne Buster, Certificate of Proficiency: Mechanical Devices; Alondra Galvez, Associate of Applied Science: Physical Therapy Assistant; Holly Hamilton, Associate of Applied Science: Registered Nursing; Cole Hanney. Certificate of Proficiency: MIG Welding; Jason Huesca, Certificate of Proficiency: TIG Welding; Amanda Jacobson, Certificate of Proficiency: Emergency Medical Technician; Autumn Jester, Associate of Applied Science: Registered Nursing; Mason Marshall, Certificate of Proficiency: Mechanical Devices; Tyler Miller, Certificate of Proficiency: Mechanical Devices; Tamberlyn Nelson, Technical Certificate: Industrial Electricity; Amber Rapp, Associate of Applied Science: Business Management; Garrett Sharp, Technical Certificate: General Studies; Sarah Sharp, Associate of Applied Science: Teaching: K-6; Braden Smart, Technical Certificate: Industrial Technology; Kade Smith, Certificate of Proficiency: Mechanical Devices; Courtney Thomas, Associate of Applied Science: Registered Nursing; and Rachael Vallee, Technical Certificate: Cosmetology
Long Lake: Damara Milianta-Peterson, Associate of General Studies
Marion: Kambri Phillips, Associate of Applied Science: Registered Nursing
McCaskill: Cameron Lane, Certificate of Proficiency: Mechanical Devices; Jorge Torres, Certificate of Proficiency: SMAW Welding; and Corta Young, Certificate of Proficiency: Mechanical Devices
Mena: Joshua Swint, Certificate of Proficiency: Engine Repair & Climate Control and Christopher Thacker, Certificate of Proficiency: Engine repair and Climate Control
Mineral Springs: Clayton Ashmore, Technical Certificate: Automotive Service Technology; Rhonda Conway, Associate of Science: Teaching K-6; Christian Hart, Certificate of Proficiency: Mechanical Devices;
Katelyn Hipp, Technical Certificate: General Studies; and Betsabe Mercado, Technical Certificate: General Studies
Murfreesboro: Anthony Hill, Certificate of Proficiency: SMAW Welding; Jack Manlove Jr., Associate of General Studies; and Ryan Roberts, Associate of Science: Natural Resources
Nash: Allyson Braley, Associate of Applied Science: Occupational Therapy Assistant and Madison Falgout, Associate of Applied Science: Occupational Therapy Assistant
Nashville: Zachary Backus, Certificate of Proficiency: Mechanical Devices; Deven Barton, Certificate of Proficiency: Accounting; Heidi Buck, Associate of Applied Science: Registered Nursing; Karina Cogburn, Technical Certificate: General Studies; Aubrie Combs, Technical Certificate: General Studies; Taurean Coulter Jr., Associate of Arts; Casen Drummond, Associate of General Studies; Amber Hampton, Technical Certificate: Cosmetology; Jhamilex Hernandez-Ortiz, Associate of Applied Science: Administrative Assistant; Rosalinda Hernandez, Technical Certificate: General Studies, Fabian Mercado, Certificate of Proficiency: TIG Welding; Kimberly Moore, Certificate of Proficiency: Medical Transcription; Adam Nix, Technical Certificate: Welding; Jorge Padilla, Technical Certificate: Welding; Kailee Parker, Associate of Applied Science: Accounting; Jhonny Pioquinto, Certificate of Proficiency: SMAW Welding, Hilda Sanchez, Associate of Science: Teaching K-6; Savannah Smead, Associate of Arts; Kymberly Stanek, Certificate of Proficiency: Engine Repair and Climate Control; Shania Swift, Technical Certificate: General Studies; and Levi Wester, Certificate of Diesel Engines
Newhope: Brian Burk, Certificate of Proficiency: Mechanical Devices; Andrew Jacoby, Certificate of Proficiency: MIG Welding; and Karley Stapp, Technical Certificate: General Studies
Ogden: David Balderas, Technical Certificate: Welding; Ashley Garrett, Certificate of Proficiency: Child Development; and Micah Stafford, Certificate of Proficiency: Mechanical Devices
Ozan: Margaret Cooper, Associate of Applied Science: Registered Nursing
Prairie Grove: Rhonda Harton, Technical Certificate: General Studies
Prescott: Lauren Gay, Associate of Applied Science: Occupational Therapy Assistant and Jacob Ojeda, Certificate of Proficiency: SMAW Welding
Springdale: Talia Lambert, Associate of Applied Science: Accounting
Texarkana: Sarah Carnes, Associate of Applied Science: Occupational Therapy Assistant; Minerva Gray, Associate of Applied Science: Registered Nursing; Jordan Hatley, Certificate of Proficiency: Emergency Medical Technician; Brittany Jones, Technical Certificate: Health Professions; Katherine Malca, Associate of Applied Science: Physical Therapy Assistant; Kayla Mills, Associate of Applied Science: Physical Therapy Assistant; Coleman Newberry, Technical Certificate: Welding; Grant Nolen, Technical Certificate: Health Professions; Jayci Pettigrew, Associate of Applied Science: Occupational Therapy Assistant; Samantha Spears, Associate of Applied Science: Occupational Therapy Assistant; Jackie Taylor, Associate of Applied Science: Registered Nursing; Kylie Thrash, Associate of Applied Science: Occupational Therapy Assistant; Shaglista Ware, Associate of Applied Science: Registered Nursing; and Sherica Williams, Associate of Applied Science: Registered Nursing
Umpire: Christopher Moore, Certificate of Proficiency: Mechanical Devices
Wickes: Hector Hernandez, Certificate of Proficiency: TIG Welding, Sebastian Medina, Technical Certificate: Welding; Aubry Reel, Certificate of Proficiency: Medical Transcription; Vanessa Rundel, Technical Certificate: Business Management
Winthrop: Kiarra Young, Associate of Science: Business ###
Legislative Update From State Representative Deann Vaught
Since the filing period began, there have been more than 540 bills filed in the House. In the Senate, 380 have been filed.
More than 120 bills so far have been signed into law.
This afternoon, the House advanced several more, including the following:
HB1353-This bill states that a medical marijuana cultivation facility or dispensary shall not use any of the following images within an advertisement:
** A cross of any color
** A caduceus
** Any other symbol that is
commonly associated with the
practice of medicine or the
practice of pharmacy.
HB1426-This bill establishes the Arkansas Fair Food Delivery Act. It states that a food delivery platform shall not arrange for the delivery of a food order from a food facility without first entering into an agreement with the food facility expressly authorizing the food delivery platform to take orders and deliver food.
HB1434-This bill creates the Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Advisory Council. The council will research the needs and services available to the nearly 50,000 Arkansans living with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.
SB136-This bill allows public utilities to recognize renewable natural gas and allow gas utilities to remove barriers to purchase the alternative fuel.
SB165-This bill brings Arkansas law into alignment with federal law to allow termination or cancellation of a residential lease when a soldier or airman is assigned to a permanent change of duty station that is located more than 50 miles from his or her primary residence or when he or she is discharged or released under honorable conditions from active military service.
The House will convene on Wednesday at 1 pm.
News from the UA Cossatot Agriculture Department
UA Cossatot and UA Fayetteville Bumpers College of Agriculture recently signed an articulation agreement for a direct transfer of UAC’s Agriculture Business Program to the Bumpers College at the University of Arkansas Fayetteville. Kelli Harris, Agri Instructor/Advisor at UAC has been working with students to transfer their Ag Business degree from Cossatot to Fayetteville for a while but this official document signing makes the process more transparent and easier for students. Students who complete the 60-hour Associate of Science degree in Agri-Business are eligible to transfer to UA Fayetteville and pay the same tuition rate that they were paying at UA Cossatot.
The Division of Professional Studies is continuing to work with the Bumpers College to develop similar agreements for Natural Resources and Animal Science.
Tuesday COVID-19 Update from the Arkansas Department of Health
Governor Asa Hutchinson provided today's update on Arkansas's COVID-19 response.
In its Monday update, the Arkansas Department of Health reported 245 new cases; 4,899 active cases; 588 hospitalized, which is up 11 from Sunday; 109 on ventilators, which is down 5 from Sunday; deaths added today, 6, for a total of 5,363; a total of 315,759 cases; 242,135 recoveries; PCR tests, 1,979; antigen tests, 482.
The Health Department reported that the top counties for new cases are Pulaski, 34; Garland, 21; Benton, 18; Pope, 16; and Sevier and White with 13 each.
Governor Hutchinson released the following statement on today’s COVID-19 numbers:
"New and active cases continue to remain lower than we've seen in the past few weeks. We're distributing vaccine doses throughout the state and encourage those who are eligible to make sure they're signed up. We expect vaccine and testing numbers to increase this week with clear roads across the state."
Here are today's COVID-19 statewide numbers:
Here are today's COVID-19 vaccine statewide numbers:
COVID-19 Metrics for Sevier County
Total Cumulative Cases: 2,571
Confirmed Cases: 1,738
Probable Cases: 833
Total Active Cases: 48
Active Confirmed Cases: 19
Active Probable Cases: 29
COVID-19 Metrics for Howard County
Total Cumulative Cases: 1,506
Confirmed Cases: 986
Probable Cases: 520
Total Active Cases: 24
Active Confirmed Cases: 10
Active Probable Cases: 14
COVID-19 Metrics for Little River County
Total Cumulative Cases: 1,117
Confirmed Cases: 847
Probable Cases: 270
Total Active Cases: 8
Active Confirmed Cases: 8
Active Probable Cases:
COVID-19 Metrics for Polk County
Total Cumulative Cases: 1,859
Confirmed Cases: 1,594
Probable Cases: 265
Total Active Cases: 39
Active Confirmed Cases: 29
Active Probable Cases: 10
COVID-19 Metrics for Pike County
Total Cumulative Cases: 948
Confirmed Cases: 726
Probable Cases: 222
Total Active Cases: 22
Active Confirmed Cases: 11
Active Probable Cases: 11
Career Pathways Offers Financial Assistance for UA Cossatot Students
PRESS RELEASE
183 College Drive, De Queen, AR 71832
870-584-1124
www.cccua.edu
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 22 February 2021
CONTACT: Ben Renfrow, Marketing Coordinator
Career Pathway’s team members: Crystal Bell-Hunter, Linda Young, and Hanna Sharp
The Career Pathways department at UA Cossatot was created in July of 2005 and still exists today to financially assist students, who are parents, in achieving their personal and professional goals while also helping them develop the skills they need to boost their resumes or job applications. Students and potential students who are parents are encouraged to contact the Career Pathways department at UA Cossatot to determine Career Pathways eligibility.
Students who qualify for Career Pathways services can receive gas vouchers, financial assistance with childcare, certain testing fees, school supplies, and even help with tuition and fees.
To qualify for Career Pathways, the student must be a parent and be a citizen of Arkansas and the United States. Annual income requirements vary upon family size to receive Career Pathways services.
The Career Pathways department at UA Cossatot includes Career Pathways Director Crystal Bell-Hunter, Career Pathways Site Coordinator Linda Young, and Career Pathways Site Coordinator Hanna Sharp.
Crystal Bell-Hunter says, “College can at times be financially stressful, especially for non-traditional students. Career Pathways is here to help with that, and we offer many services to help students continue on their path to a brighter future.”
For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact Career Pathways at UA Cossatot at 870-584-1119 or e-mail Career Pathways at careerpathways@cccua.edu.
Message from the Sevier County Water Association
Sevier County Water Association
Everyone’s pipes are starting to thaw out and we are seeing a large increase in water usage. It would be very helpful if you would check your lines for any leaks. Check outside faucets and under trailers. Any and all help is greatly appreciated. Thanks!
Water usage in rural areas of Sevier County is up significantly and it is possible that there may be leaks that were caused by last week's sub-zero temps. The Sevier County Water Association is asking that you check for water leaks at your home and on your property.
Monday Arkansas COVID-19 Case Numbers and Maps
COVID-19 Metrics for Sevier County
Total Active Cases: 51
Active Confirmed Cases: 24
Active Probable Cases: 27
COVID-19 Metrics for Howard County
Total Active Cases: 29
Active Confirmed Cases: 14
Active Probable Cases: 15
COVID-19 Metrics for Little River County
Total Active Cases: 10
Active Confirmed Cases: 7
Active Probable Cases: 3
COVID-19 Metrics for Polk County
Total Active Cases: 44
Active Confirmed Cases: 31
Active Probable Cases: 13
COVID-19 Metrics for Pike County
Total Active Cases: 23
Active Confirmed Cases: 12
Active Probable Cases: 11
Weekly Update from State Representative DeAnn Vaught
From the workers clearing our roads to the utility employees doing their best to keep houses warm, we want to extend our deepest appreciation to our essential workers this week.
The General Assembly took an extended recess due to the winter weather across our state. However, House members plan to be back at the Capitol on February 22.
In the upcoming days, the House is expected to vote on two tax relief bills which were advanced by the House Revenue and Taxation Committee on February 9.
SB236 would exempt unemployment benefits paid in 2020 and 2021 from state income tax.
In previous years, an average of 45,000 Arkansans received unemployment. Last year, due to the pandemic, more than 280,000 Arkansans received unemployment benefits. That is approximately 18% of Arkansas taxpayers and $2.6 billion in payments. Taxes are not withheld from unemployment benefits.
SB236 would ensure those Arkansans would not have to pay state taxes on those benefits they received this year and in 2020. The Department of Finance and Administration estimates the bill will have a $51 million impact on revenue for the current fiscal year.
SB236 passed the Senate with unanimous support.
Another tax relief bill before the House next week is HB1361.
HB1361 would exempt COVID-19 relief loans for small businesses, such as the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), from state income tax.
More than 42,000 PPP loans totaling $3.3 billion were distributed to small businesses in Arkansas last year. These loans are currently exempt from federal income tax.
The unemployment rate in Arkansas is now 4.2%. Recent reports show our state general revenue is $298.7 million or 8.4% more than this time last year.
Net available revenue is 12.3% above forecast. The results include collection increases tied to the income tax due date shift to July from April in the prior fiscal year. These reports help to guide our decision making when considering tax cut proposals.
As a reminder, you can find agendas and links to live streams for all House committee and floor proceedings at www.arkansashouse.org.
Sunday COVID-19 Update from the Arkansas Department of Health
COVID-19 Metrics for Sevier County
Total Active Cases: 59
Active Confirmed Cases: 27
Active Probable Cases: 32
COVID-19 Metrics for Howard County
Total Active Cases: 34
Active Confirmed Cases: 14
Active Probable Cases: 20
COVID-19 Metrics for Little River County
Total Active Cases: 12
Active Confirmed Cases: 8
Active Probable Cases: 4
COVID-19 Metrics for Polk County
Total Active Cases: 53
Active Confirmed Cases: 36
Active Probable Cases: 17
COVID-19 Metrics for Pike County
Total Active Cases: 23
Active Confirmed Cases: 12
Active Probable Cases: 11
Secondary Roads Across SW Arkansas Still Have Patchy Ice; Drive With Caution
Photos were taken Thursday Evening,02/18, and Friday Morning, 02/19, by Jon Bunyard
Photo 1: 9th Street, De Queen, Friday Morning
Other 2 Photos at Bellah Mine Thursday Evening
Friday COVID-19 Update from the Arkansas Department of Health
COVID-19 Metrics for Sevier County
Total Cumulative Cases: 2,549
Confirmed Cases: 1,737
Probable Cases: 812
Total Active Cases: 63
Active Confirmed Cases: 31
Active Probable Cases: 32
COVID-19 Metrics for Howard County
Total Cumulative Cases: 1,500
Confirmed Cases: 982
Probable Cases: 518
Total Active Cases: 43
Active Confirmed Cases: 16
Active Probable Cases: 27
COVID-19 Metrics for Little River County
Total Cumulative Cases: 1,112
Confirmed Cases: 844
Probable Cases: 268
Total Active Cases: 18
Active Confirmed Cases: 9
Active Probable Cases: 9
COVID-19 Metrics for Polk County
Total Cumulative Cases: 1,846
Confirmed Cases: 1,582
Probable Cases: 264
Total Active Cases: 59
Active Confirmed Cases: 36
Active Probable Cases: 23
COVID-19 Metrics for Pike County
Total Cumulative Cases: 943
Confirmed Cases: 724
Probable Cases: 219
Total Active Cases: 25
Active Confirmed Cases: 12
Active Probable Cases: 13
Governor Hutchinson Provides Today’s COVID-19 Update
LITTLE ROCK – Governor Asa Hutchinson provided today's update on Arkansas's COVID-19 response.
In its Thursday update, the Arkansas Department of Health reported 253 new cases; 7,323 active cases; 625 hospitalized, which is up 23 from Wednesday; 107 on ventilators, which is down 1 from Wednesday; deaths added today, 10, for a total of 5,323; a total of 314,445 cases; 239,586 recoveries; PCR tests, 2,155; antigen tests, 820.
The Health Department reported that the top counties for new cases are Washington, 42; Benton, 37; Sebastian, 20; Pulaski, 16; and Garland and Independence with 10 each.
Governor Hutchinson released the following statement on today’s COVID-19 numbers:
"Our vaccine numbers have slowed over the past few days, and we anticipate these numbers to increase once the roads clear up throughout the state. We hope that vaccine uptake will continue among those who are eligible. I ask that, once it's your turn, you roll up your sleeve and help protect your community."
Here are today's COVID-19 statewide numbers:
Here are today's COVID-19 vaccine statewide numbers:
