Sunday COVID-19 Active Cases and Vaccines Update from the Arkansas Department of Health

Active Cases Data for Sevier County
Total Active Cases: 1
Active Confirmed Cases: 0
Active Probable Cases: 1

Active Cases Data for Howard County
Total Active Cases: 4
Active Confirmed Cases: 2
Active Probable Cases: 2

Active Cases Data for Little River County
Total Active Cases: 9
Active Confirmed Cases: 4
Active Probable Cases: 5

Active Cases Data for Polk County
Total Active Cases: 15
Active Confirmed Cases: 12
Active Probable Cases: 3

Active Cases Data for Pike County
Total Active Cases: 5
Active Confirmed Cases: 3
Active Probable Cases: 2

Friday COVID-19 Active Cases and Vaccines Update from the Arkansas Department of Health

Active Cases Data for Sevier County
Total Active Cases: 2
Active Confirmed Cases: 0
Active Probable Cases: 2

Active Cases Data for Howard County
Total Active Cases: 2
Active Confirmed Cases: 1
Active Probable Cases: 1

Active Cases Data for Little River County
Total Active Cases: 9
Active Confirmed Cases: 4
Active Probable Cases: 5

Active Cases Data for Polk County
Total Active Cases: 9
Active Confirmed Cases: 7
Active Probable Cases: 2

Active Cases Data for Pike County
Total Active Cases: 6
Active Confirmed Cases: 5
Active Probable Cases: 1

In its Thursday update, the Arkansas Department of Health reported 161 new cases; 1,923 active cases; 171 hospitalized, which is down 4 from Wednesday; 22 on ventilators, which is down 2 from Wednesday; deaths added today, 3, for a total of 5,711; a total of 334,222 cases; PCR tests, 4,672; antigen tests, 965.

The Health Department reported that the top counties for new cases are Pulaski, 22; Benton, 13; and Craighead and Faulkner with 9 each.

Governor Hutchinson released the following statement on today’s COVID-19 numbers:

“Today's report shows a decline in new cases compared to last week and a slight decrease in active cases from yesterday. As we vaccinated the 1 millionth Arkansan today, around one-third of our population has received at least one dose. These are good numbers, but we can do better. Do your part by getting your vaccine as soon as possible.”

Here are today's COVID-19 statewide numbers:

Aerial Photos of New Sevier County Medical Center Construction Site

Photos Courtesy of Monte Bartek

VIDEO: Summer and Fall Technical Programs Registration Underway at UA Cossatot

Registration for summer and fall classes is underway at UA Cossatot. We offer a wide range of technical programs at UAC including automotive technology, diesel technology, and welding. For our complete catalog of classes, visit: www.cccua.edu

Horatio FFA Livestock Judging Team Crowned Arkansas State Champions

The Livestock team evaluates and ranks cattle, hogs, sheep, and goats. They study Expected progeny differences or EPDS and use them in a given scenario to choose the best animals to keep as breeding pieces on their farms. Then they stand before strangers and articulate from memory the reasons that they made their choices. This team attends many summer camps and travels countless miles in the spring attending practice contests in Oklahoma, Missouri, Texas and Arkansas. This year looked a little different as they sat in the classroom and looked at stock virtually more than any of them wanted too. But their tenacious work paid big dividends as they were named the 2021 State Champions. They were second in the virtual state qualifying contest that took them to state for eighth year in a row. Our livestock team members were: Gabbi Litchford, Raylee VanVoast, Madison Bagley, Hunter Frachiseur, Megan Midgett, Blake Sawyer and coach Nicki Litchford. Madison, Gabbi, Hunter and Raylee went on to mark as the senior team at the state contest where Madison Bagley was 2nd high individual, Hunter Frachiseur was 4th high, Raylee VanVoast was 15th, and Gabbi Litchford was 19th. They will compete in the National Competition this Fall.

Daily Legislative Update From State Representative Deann Vaught

With a vote of 82-9, the House voted in favor of SJR10. This is a proposed constitutional amendment which, if approved by voters, would allow the General Assembly to call a special session upon the submission of a written proclamation with signatures from at least 2/3 of both the House and Senate membership. Currently, only the Governor can call for a special session.

The House also voted in favor of HR1048. This resolution would allow the House to consider a third proposed constitutional amendment, SJR14, the Arkansas Religious Freedom Amendment.

The House also passed the following bills on Thursday:

HB1926-This bill defines virtual currency under Arkansas Code. It also defines rights of ownership and the process for adverse claims against the currency.

HB1944-This bill provides definitions of advanced plastic recycling technologies in an effort to help facilitate the growth and investment of these facilities.

SB181-This bill amends the Sales Tax Holiday to exempt certain electronic devices from sales tax during the first weekend in August.

SB513-This bill amends the law concerning the suspension or revocation of a person’s driver’s license for failure to pay a fine or failure to appear. This would allow judges to restrict a license rather than suspend to allow the defendant to drive for essential purposes.

The House will convene on Monday at 1 pm.

UA Cossatot Receives NSF ATE Grant

UA Cossatot is the recipient of a National Science Foundation (NSF) Advanced Technological Education (ATE) grant for its "GIS-Skilled Technicians in Agriculture-Related Sciences (GSTARS)" proposal within the College's Agriculture and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) programs. The primary goal of the GSTARS project is to design and implement a curriculum that meets the region’s need for technician-level GIS skills in agriculture and related science industries. The $299,635 grant will create pathways for future GIS Technicians to enter the local workforce.

The National Science Foundation’s Advanced Technological Education program supports the development of innovative approaches for educating highly skilled technicians for the industries that drive the nation’s economy. The program involves partnerships between academic institutions and industry to promote improvement in the education of science and engineering technicians at the undergraduate and secondary institution school levels.

The GSTARS program will include the integration of GIS skills into existing agriculture and science courses, the creation of a new course (Introduction to GIS in Agriculture) within the agriculture department, and the addition of a Certification of Proficiency in GIS Technology through the agriculture program. Students will use applications of analysis of spatial data using ESRI’s ArcGIS tools in data collection, remote sensing, map design, and spatial analysis.

The GSTARS team includes agriculture faculty and primary investigator (PI), Kelli Harris; co-PI’s Robert Guillory, science faculty, and, Crystal Sims, Chair of the Division of General Education; and external

evaluators, The New Growth Group. New Growth is an evaluation and analytics firm based in Cleveland, Ohio, specializing in workforce development. Several industry representatives will also serve on the program's advisory board to assist in curriculum development and provide important career insight to students enrolled in this program. Some of the local employers represented on the board include Arkansas Game and Fish Commission and Arkansas Forestry Division.

“This grant will offer an innovative pathway for students pursuing careers in agriculture and science, and it will provide valuable skills in emerging technology. These skills are crucial to the success of our students and our economy. We are excited to help these students achieve their dreams and support a vibrant, high-tech workforce in southwest Arkansas" said GSTARS team leader and agriculture faculty, Kelli Harris.

Funding will begin in July 2021 and will enable the UA Cossatot team to receive training and develop GIS curriculum that will include exploring mapped data; learning to utilize remote sensing technologies; recording, analyzing, and presenting spatial data using GIS analysis tools from ESRI ArcGIS; and creating maps, images and apps to communicate spatial data. As a step towards diversifying the workforce, UA Cossatot’s collaboration with the public schools will place special emphasis on recruiting underrepresented minority students in skilled technician positions.

To learn more about this grant, contact kharris@cccua.edu. ###

Thursday COVID-19 Active Cases Update from the Arkansas Department of Health

Active Cases Data for Sevier County
Total Active Cases: 2
Active Confirmed Cases: 0
Active Probable Cases: 2

Active Cases Data for Howard County
Total Active Cases: 3
Active Confirmed Cases: 1
Active Probable Cases: 2

Active Cases Data for Little River County
Total Active Cases: 9
Active Confirmed Cases: 4
Active Probable Cases: 5

Active Cases Data for Polk County
Total Active Cases: 8
Active Confirmed Cases: 7
Active Probable Cases: 1

Active Cases Data for Pike County
Total Active Cases: 6
Active Confirmed Cases: 5
Active Probable Cases: 1

In its Wednesday update, the Arkansas Department of Health reported 352 new cases; 1,943 active cases; 175 hospitalized, which is down 2 from Tuesday; 24 on ventilators, which is unchanged from Tuesday; deaths added today, 2, for a total of 5,708; a total of 334,061cases; PCR tests, 4,150; antigen tests, 1,028.

The Health Department reported that the top counties for new cases are Washington, 44; Benton, 43; and Pulaski, 39.

Governor Hutchinson released the following statement on today’s COVID-19 numbers:

“The increase in new cases from today's report is a serious reminder of the importance to get vaccinated. It is also a reminder that the virus is still here along with the more contagious variants. Our best defense is the vaccine. We have plenty of doses available, so if you're 16 and older, schedule your appointment today.”

Here are today's COVID-19 statewide numbers:

FRIENDS Board of Directors Meeting

Perla Zapata - De Queen Lions Club Student of the Month

Perla Zapata, a senior at De Queen High, was awarded De Queen Lions Club Student of the Month in Tuesday’s noon meeting. Perla is a member of the National Honor Society, the FCCLA, Gifted & Talented, Spanish Club, Young Voters, Tennis Team, Basketball Team, and Soccer Team. Perla attended the FCCLA National Conference in Atlanta, GA and received a gold medal for a group project. She was a senior maid at De Queen Homecoming this year and was voted Miss Congeniality and People’s Choice at the De Queen High School Pageant. She is president of the Student Council and will be an honor graduate this year at De Queen High. Perla plans to attend UCA and has been accepted in the University Scholars Program.

VIDEO: Christy McCullough New Executive Director of De Queen/Sevier County Chamber

Introducing the new Executive Director of the De Queen / Sevier County Chamber of Commerce, Christy McCullough. Christy and Chamber President Callie Miller came by our Ed 88 studios in De Queen this morning for a quick visit!

Sevier County 4-H’ers Compete in Chicken BBQ

Sevier County 4-H held their annual Chicken BBQ on April 3. Twenty-two youth signed up to compete for a chance to go on to District 4-H BBQ. Each 4-H’er cooked a whole chicken, cut in half, on a charcoal grill. The 4-H’er could use the seasoning of their choice. They were judged on how well they could start a charcoal fire, control the fire, food safety and handling, and how well they cooked the chicken. When the chicken was done, they picked their best half to be judged on appearance, color, doneness, and taste.

The Brothers Keepers Motorcycle Club 34 were very helpful in judging the competition and Pilgrim’s Foods donated the chicken.

The top two Senior 4-H’ers will compete at the District Poultry BBQ that will be held at the Clark County Fairgrounds in Arkadelphia on May 7. They will be given the choice to cook either a chicken or a turkey breast.

The top two seniors that will represent Sevier County at the District BBQ are Laikyn Morris and Alley Stinson.

Tuesday's COVID-19 Active Cases and Vaccines Update from the AR Dept of Health

Active Cases Data for Sevier County

Total Active Cases: 2
Active Confirmed Cases: 0
Active Probable Cases: 2

Active Cases Data for Howard County

Total Active Cases: 2
Active Confirmed Cases: 0
Active Probable Cases: 2

Active Cases Data for Little River County

Total Active Cases: 7
Active Confirmed Cases: 4
Active Probable Cases: 3

Active Cases Data for Polk County

Total Active Cases: 2
Active Confirmed Cases: 2
Active Probable Cases: 0

Active Cases Data for Pike County

Total Active Cases: 6
Active Confirmed Cases: 5
Active Probable Cases: 1

LITTLE ROCK – Governor Asa Hutchinson provided today's update on Arkansas's COVID-19 response.

In its Monday update, the Arkansas Department of Health reported 59 new cases; 1,789 active cases; 164 hospitalized, which is up 3 from Sunday; 22 on ventilators, which is up 1 from Sunday; deaths added today, 5, for a total of 5,699; a total of 333,511 cases; PCR tests, 1,553; antigen tests, 200.

The Health Department reported that the top counties for new cases are Pulaski, 16; Benton, 5; and Garland and Washington with 4 each.

Governor Hutchinson released the following statement on today’s COVID-19 numbers:

“Today we saw fewer new cases with more testing than this time last week. The increase in vaccine doses was larger this week than last Monday. Our combined efforts are keeping the numbers low, but we will lose momentum if we do not increase our vaccination numbers.”

Here are today's COVID-19 statewide numbers:

Daily Legislative Report From State Rep Deann Vaught:

On Thursday, the House advanced a proposed constitutional amendment. HJR1005 would require statewide ballot initiatives to receive 60% of the vote before becoming law. If approved by the Senate, HJR1005 would be placed on the ballot in November of 2022.

The House also passed the following:

HB1391-This bill amends the law concerning consumer protection of seniors from predatory practices. It states that if a financial services provider has reasonable cause to suspect that financial exploitation may have occurred or is being attempted, the financial services provider may refuse or delay the execution of a financial transaction.

HB1012-This bill would require a buyer of a used catalytic converter other than a scrap metal recycler to file an electronic record of the used catalytic converter purchase.

SB298-This bill is titled the Arkansas Sovereignty Act of 2021. It states that all acts, laws, orders, rules, and regulations of the United States Government that infringe on the people's right to keep and bear arms as guaranteed by the Second Amendment to the United States Constitution and Arkansas Constitution are invalid in this state and shall not be recognized.

SB59-This bill states that a personal firearm, a firearms accessory, or ammunition that is manufactured commercially or privately in Arkansas and that remains within the borders of Arkansas is not subject to federal law or federal regulation.

SB536-This bill establishes the Buffalo River Conservation Committee.

The House will convene on Monday at 1 pm.

Friday COVID-19 Active Case and Vaccine Update from the Arkansas Department of Health

Active Cases Data for Sevier County
Total Active Cases: 3
Active Confirmed Cases: 0
Active Probable Cases: 3

Active Cases Data for Howard County
Total Active Cases: 3
Active Confirmed Cases: 0
Active Probable Cases: 3

Active Cases Data for Little River County
Total Active Cases: 4
Active Confirmed Cases: 2
Active Probable Cases: 2

Active Cases Data for Polk County
Total Active Cases: 3
Active Confirmed Cases: 2
Active Probable Cases: 1

Active Cases Data for Pike County
Total Active Cases: 7
Active Confirmed Cases: 6
Active Probable Cases: 1

In its Thursday update, the Arkansas Department of Health reported 283 new cases; 1,843 active cases; 153 hospitalized, which is up 2 from Wednesday; 18 on ventilators, which is down 2 from Wednesday; deaths added today, 6, for a total of 5,686; a total of 332,949 cases; PCR tests, 5,038; antigen tests, 963.

The Health Department reported that the top counties for new cases are Pulaski, 35; Benton, 31; and Washington, 26.

Governor Hutchinson released the following statement on today’s COVID-19 numbers:

“Even with the pause on the J&J vaccine, we were able to pivot and vaccinate over 25,000 Arkansans yesterday. When the new COVID-19 cases go up, it is a reminder we must get our shot in the arm.”

Here are today's COVID-19 statewide numbers:

Rain Continues Friday in Arkansas, Weather Update from the National Weather Service

Today and Tonight...

Showers and thunderstorms will be ongoing today ahead of an
approaching upper level disturbance with a surface low and a cold
front this evening. A few strong storms containing hail cannot be
ruled out along with some isolated areas of flooding possible as
storms train over the same areas, especially south of I-20.
No other hazardous weather is expected.

Saturday through Thursday...

Cooler and drier weather is expected for the rest of the weekend
into the start of the new work week with arriving high pressure.
Another reinforcing cool front will arrive late on Tuesday with
limited moisture allowing for lesser amounts of rainfall.

Complete Listing of Sevier County Waste Disposal Facilities

UA Cossatot CARES Grant Application Re-Opens

UA Cossatot recently received an additional $387,000 in HEERF II funds for student financial relief. UA Cossatot will re-open the application to distribute Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act funds for spring 2021 students on April 15, 2021.

Students who qualify for the grant will receive $500 if they are enrolled in 9 credit hours or more. Students who qualify for the grant will receive $250 if they are enrolled in 3 to 8 credit hours. There will be no deadline to apply; however, funds are limited. Eligible students will continue to be awarded until all funds are disbursed. A change in the most recent award guidelines now allows dual-enrolled high school students to apply for the new HEERF II funds.

The CARES Grant is intended to help offset expenses students experienced because of the COVID-19 health emergency. Student applicants need to indicate their financial needs as a result of COVID-19 on their application. According to Chancellor Dr. Steve Cole, “We will continue to get this federal funding into the hands of UA Cossatot students as quickly as possible to help them with their financial needs caused by the ongoing pandemic. We also will have additional application windows this summer and next fall as long as we continue to receive HEERF funding. We want to make sure that UA Cossatot students can continue to pursue their educational goals and us getting this funding to them is our most important job”.

UA Cossatot CARES Grant applications will be sent to student’s college and personal emails as well as a mailed letter with a QR code to apply.

For more information on eligibility requirements and a list of Frequently Asked Questions please visit www.cccua.edu/CARES.

Daily Legislative Report From State Rep Deann Vaught:

On Tuesday, the House passed bills outlining several tax credits and exemptions.

HB1157 would double the income tax deduction for a teacher's qualified classroom expense from $250 to $500.

HB1513 creates an income tax credit for up to $3,500 for retired law enforcement officers who work cold cases for Arkansas State Police.

HB1196 would provide a sales and use tax exemption for water used by a poultry farm.

HB1054 allows for sales tax exemptions of isolated sales at special events.

The House also passed the following:

HB1879-This bill allows tuition waivers for dependents of disabled veterans, prisoners of war or a person declared missing in action or killed in action to be used at private and non-profit institutions of higher education. The amount of the waiver would be capped at the maximum amount of those at state-supported institutions.

HB1849-This bill states a vehicle shall not be driven upon the left lane of a multilane highway, except as follows:

(1) When overtaking and passing another vehicle proceeding in the same direction under the rules governing that movement

(2) When all other lanes for traveling in the same direction are closed to traffic while under construction or repair

(3) When all other lanes for traveling in the same direction are in disrepair or are in an otherwise undrivable or unsafe condition

(4) When a vehicle is preparing to exit the multilane highway on the left

HB1767-This bill allows the operation of a personal delivery device in pedestrian areas and certain streets.

HB1547-This bill states that a state agency or a state or local official shall not mandate an individual to receive a vaccine for COVID-19. It also states that if a state-controlled facility desires to mandate an individual to receive a vaccine, then the agency can make the request to the Arkansas Legislative Council. If a variant of COVID-19 occurs and mutates to be a more virulent strain that impacts children within two years from the date that the United States Food and Drug Administration approved the vaccine, then the Department of Health can request a meeting with the Public Health, Welfare, and Labor Committee.

SB139-This bill allows a student applying for the Arkansas Governor’s Scholars Program or the Minority Teacher Scholarship Program to use his or her ACT super score.

The House will convene on Thursday at 1 pm.

Recent Construction Site Aerial Photos of the New Sevier County Medical Center

. (Pictures courtesy of Monte Bartek)