Saturday's COVID-19 Update from the Arkansas Department of Health

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

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

Active Cases Data for Little River County
Total Active Cases: 6
Active Confirmed Cases: 3
Active Probable Cases: 3

Active Cases Data for Polk County
Total Active Cases: 8
Active Confirmed Cases: 3
Active Probable Cases: 5

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

In its Friday update, the Arkansas Department of Health reported 222 new cases; 2,176 active cases; 175 hospitalized, which is down 2 from Thursday; 37 on ventilators, which is up 3 from Thursday; deaths added today, 2, for a total of 5,759; a total of 337,170 cases; PCR tests, 3,086; antigen tests, 573.

The Health Department reported that the top counties for new cases are Benton, 37; Pulaski and Washington with 24 each; and Faulkner, 17.

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

“We continue to see similar case numbers to last week's report. Our vaccine supply in the state is plentiful, and we are prepared to vaccinate any Arkansan 16 and older. Check with the Department of Health to find a vaccine appointment near you.”

Here are today's COVID-19 statewide numbers:

Severe Weather Briefing from the National Weather Service

The threat for strong to severe thunderstorms will exist Sunday afternoon and evening across the Four State Region along and ahead of a weak cold front that will shift southeast into the area. Damaging winds, large hail, and locally heavy rainfall will be the main threats with these storms, before they gradually diminish Monday morning. However, additional showers and embedded thunderstorms will become more numerous across the region Monday night through Wednesday north of the front, with the threat for heavy rainfall and localized flooding of low lying, poor drainage areas possible.

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: 1
Active Probable Cases: 1

Active Cases Data for Howard County
Total Active Cases: 6
Active Confirmed Cases: 3
Active Probable Cases: 3

Active Cases Data for Little River County
Total Active Cases: 4
Active Confirmed Cases: 3
Active Probable Cases: 1

Active Cases Data for Polk County
Total Active Cases: 8
Active Confirmed Cases: 3
Active Probable Cases: 5

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

In its Thursday update, the Arkansas Department of Health reported 188 new cases; 2,151 active cases; 177 hospitalized, which is down 4 from Wednesday; 34 on ventilators, which is down 1 from Wednesday; deaths added today, 3, for a total of 5,757; a total of 336,948 cases; PCR tests, 3,565; antigen tests, 819.

The Health Department reported that the top counties for new cases are Benton, 26; Craighead, 18; and Faulkner, 16.

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

“When the first vaccines were distributed in December, we had over 1,000 hospitalizations and nearly 21,000 active cases. Looking at today's report, we can tell the vaccine is effective. Getting vaccinated protects you, your neighbors, and all those you care about.”

Here are today's COVID-19 statewide numbers:

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: 1
Active Probable Cases: 1

Active Cases Data for Howard County
Total Active Cases: 6
Active Confirmed Cases: 3
Active Probable Cases: 3

Active Cases Data for Little River County
Total Active Cases: 4
Active Confirmed Cases: 3
Active Probable Cases: 1

Active Cases Data for Polk County
Total Active Cases: 8
Active Confirmed Cases: 3
Active Probable Cases: 5

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

In its Wednesday update, the Arkansas Department of Health reported 298 new cases; 2,152 active cases; 181 hospitalized, which is down 11 from Tuesday; 35 on ventilators, which is up 7 from Tuesday; deaths added today, 2, for a total of 5,754; a total of 336,760 cases; PCR tests, 3,760; antigen tests, 1,000.

The Health Department reported that the top counties for new cases are Faulkner, 73; Benton, 29; and Washington, 27.

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

“Our case numbers are similar to last week, continuing the trend we've seen for weeks. While these numbers are lower than the first few months of this year, we can still work to lower them even further by getting vaccinated and encouraging your neighbors to do the same.”

Here are today's COVID-19 statewide numbers:

New Non-Profit Group Completes Artwork Project in De Queen

NEWS RELEASE

Minority Affairs Council Contact: 720-477-9659

May 5th, 2021 DQUnity@Gmail.com

New Non-Profit Group Completes Artwork Project in De Queen

DE QUEEN, AR— A new inclusive local organization has brought a “Welcome to De Queen” mural to Sevier County as their first community project this month.

The Minority Affairs Council of Southwest Arkansas (MAC) launched the effort after a series of vandalisms emerged around the town late last year. To bring the project to life, the group rallied area partners, hired an artist and collaborated with the community to develop a vision for the design.

The multi-panel work of art was created by Texarkana-based artist Darlene Taylor and features a splash of colors and characters, along with greetings in Spanish, Choctaw, Marshallese and various languages. On May 1st, a dedication and prayer gathering was held by MAC and open to the community. The painting site is located at the “Storage-N-Lock” building owned by De Queen Schools Librarian Betty Stone on the Eastern edge of town.

In addition to covering up graffiti and bringing a new work of art the city, MAC also wanted to complete the mural project as an example of how residents can take action to create change in their community.

After holding open forums in the fall of 2020 and early 2021 to generate interest, MAC formed with the purpose of bringing area residents from different backgrounds, ethnicities, religions, genders and socioeconomic status together with a common goal: Unity.

The group has committed to organizing events and projects that will uplift the underserved and unite the Sevier County Community as a whole.

Local partners who helped organize and support the “Welcome to De Queen” mural project include artist funding by SmartPhone EMT De Queen, paint provided by James and Suzanne Babb purchased from Bailey Discount Building Supply, videography by Chris Chandler, fuel sponsorship from MAC members and beverages for the artist sponsored by Jitterbug Java in De Queen.

The group would like to say “Thank you” to all supporters and invite the public out to the next meeting, Friday May 7th at 6:30 pm at The De Queen Sportsplex. (Alternate location to be determined in the event of inclement weather.)

All meetings are open to the public and available on Facebook live. Ideas for the next group project are welcome and can be submitted to @DQunity@gmail.com or the “Minority Affairs Council” Facebook page online.

Brentley Morris Student of the Month at De Queen Lions Club Meeting

Brentley Morris, a senior at De Queen High, was awarded Lions Club Student of the Month at the noon meeting Tuesday in De Queen. Brentley is a member of the FFA and has been a member of the Forestry Judging Team. In sports, Brentley played baseball and basketball for the Leopards and was awarded 6th Man of the Year for the basketball team. Brentley will be an honor graduate from De Queen High on May 17th.

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: 1
Active Probable Cases: 1

Active Cases Data for Howard County
Total Active Cases: 6
Active Confirmed Cases: 3
Active Probable Cases: 3

Active Cases Data for Little River County
Total Active Cases: 2
Active Confirmed Cases: 2
Active Probable Cases: 0

Active Cases Data for Polk County
Total Active Cases: 8
Active Confirmed Cases: 5
Active Probable Cases: 3

Active Cases Data for Pike County
Total Active Cases: 6
Active Confirmed Cases: 2
Active Probable Cases: 4

In its Monday update, the Arkansas Department of Health reported 61 new cases; 1,939 active cases; 172 hospitalized, which is up 1 from Sunday; 29 on ventilators, which is up 3 from Sunday; deaths added today, 4, for a total of 5,747; a total of 336,166 cases; PCR tests, 1,307; antigen tests, 106.

The Health Department reported that the top counties for new cases are Benton, 11; Pulaski, 9; and Faulkner, 8.

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

“Today's report shows a higher level of vaccinations than this time last week. Thanks to everyone for doing your part. We are continuing to monitor new cases and variants across the state, but the best way to prevent the spread is by getting vaccinated. Get your shot today.”

Here are today's COVID-19 statewide numbers:

Central Arkansas Development Council Area Food Distributions

Emergency Food Distribution

This Week we will be in:

Nashville and Murfreesboro on Tuesday May 4

Mt. Ida and Glenwood on Wednesday May 5

Little Rock on Thursday May 6.

All distributions will begin by 9am and go until we run out.

Severe Weather Briefing for Arkansas

Another round of severe weather is possible over the region tonight through Tuesday morning. The latest forecast indicates that an overnight complex of thunderstorms may track across the state, posing a threat for large hail early in the overnight period, with the primary hazard transitioning to damaging winds.
Additionally, there could be some locally heavy rainfall, which could lead to flash flooding and aggravate existing flooding issues along some area rivers.

Sunday 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: 1
Active Probable Cases: 1

Active Cases Data for Howard County
Total Active Cases: 7
Active Confirmed Cases: 3
Active Probable Cases: 4

Active Cases Data for Little River County
Total Active Cases: 2
Active Confirmed Cases: 2
Active Probable Cases: 0

Active Cases Data for Polk County
Total Active Cases: 16
Active Confirmed Cases: 11
Active Probable Cases: 5

Active Cases Data for Pike County
Total Active Cases: 6
Active Confirmed Cases: 2
Active Probable Cases: 4

Kris Hundley and Police Dog, Raptor, at De Queen Lions Club

Kris Hundley and police dog, Raptor, were at Tuesday’s meeting of the De Queen Lions Club. Hundley talked about Raptor’s training and work.

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

Active Cases Data for Little River County
Total Active Cases: 2
Active Confirmed Cases: 2
Active Probable Cases: 0

Active Cases Data for Polk County
Total Active Cases: 14
Active Confirmed Cases: 10
Active Probable Cases: 4

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

In its Thursday update, the Arkansas Department of Health reported 240 new cases; 1,961 active cases; 166 hospitalized, which is up 1 from Wednesday; 29 on ventilators, which is up 2 from Wednesday; deaths added today, 9, for a total of 5,735; a total of 335,529 cases; PCR tests, 4,135; antigen tests, 973.

The Health Department reported that the top counties for new cases are Benton, 35; Pulaski, 33; and Washington, 22.

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

“Our vaccine numbers were lower today than last week. We have plenty of doses across the state, and all Arkansans 16 and older are eligible. Check the Department of Health website or call 1-800-985-6030 if you need assistance finding a location to get vaccinated.”

Here are today's COVID-19 statewide numbers:

Daily Legislative Update From State Representative Deann Vaught

The House is now in an extended recess. We will return in the fall to address redistricting.

House members returned to the chamber shortly after midnight to concur in an amendment to HB1957.

HB1957 states all acts, laws, orders, rules, and regulations of the United States Government that were enacted on or after January 1, 2021, 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, Article 2, § 5, are invalid in this state, shall not be recognized by this state, are specifically rejected by this state, and shall be considered null and void and of no effect in this state. The amendment helped to clarify exceptions.

On Tuesday, the House passed the following:

SJR14- This is a proposed constitutional amendment titled the “Arkansas Religious Freedom Amendment”. It state government may burden a person's freedom of religion only if the government demonstrates that application of the burden to the person is in furtherance of a compelling government interest and is the least restrictive means of furthering that compelling government interest.

SB691-This bill states that any advertisement using the image of an elected official appearing in any newspaper, television, radio, or electronic medium which is paid by taxpayer funds shall clearly contain the words “Paid advertisement” or “paid ad” and the name of the state entity, county, or constitutional officer that paid for the ad.

SB336-This bill creates an exemption from the sales and use tax for coins, currency, and bullion.

SB484-This bill states that a nonresident individual who is paid a salary, lump sum payment, or any other form of payment that encompasses work performed both inside and outside of Arkansas shall pay Arkansas income tax only on the portion of the individual's income that reasonably can be allocated to work performed in Arkansas.

SB693-This bill would abolish the state and public school life and health insurance board and transfer the duties to the state board of finance.

We will continue to update you during the interim.

Summer Jobs Open

SUMMER EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY!

Husqvarna, L&G facility, is currently accepting high school and college student applications for employment during the summer months on second shift. Pay range $15.25- $17.00 per hour. Students must meet the minimum age requirement.

When applying, write "SUMMER" at the top of the application.

Students can apply online through Facebook and/or Indeed. If they want to come in person we are having our Student Program Open House/Job Fair next Saturday, May 8th, from 10:00 – 12:00 p.m. They will get a plant tour, and we will have refreshments for them while they fill out their application.

Interested applicants may apply at:

Husqvarna

1 Poulan Drive

Nashville, AR

Showers and Thunderstorms Continue Thursday; Flash Flood Watch in Effect for SW AR

...FLASH FLOOD WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT THROUGH THIS AFTERNOON... The Flash Flood Watch continues for * Portions of southwest Arkansas...southeast Oklahoma and northeast Texas, including the following areas, in southwest Arkansas, Howard, Little River and Sevier. In southeast Oklahoma, McCurtain. In northeast Texas, Bowie, Franklin, Red River and Titus. * Through this afternoon * Rainfall totals of 2 to 4 inches, with isolated higher amounts possible. * Flooding may occur in urban and poor drainage areas. Heavy rainfall may also cause flooding of creeks, streams, and rivers.

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

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

Active Cases Data for Howard County
Total Active Cases: 7
Active Confirmed Cases: 3
Active Probable Cases: 4

Active Cases Data for Little River County
Total Active Cases: 2
Active Confirmed Cases: 2
Active Probable Cases: 0

Active Cases Data for Polk County
Total Active Cases: 15
Active Confirmed Cases: 11
Active Probable Cases: 4

Active Cases Data for Pike County
Total Active Cases: 7
Active Confirmed Cases: 4
Active Probable Cases: 3

In its Wednesday update, the Arkansas Department of Health reported 291 new cases; 1,908 active cases; 165 hospitalized, which is up 8 from Tuesday; 27 on ventilators, which is up 1 from Tuesday; deaths added today, 1, for a total of 5,726; a total of 335,289 cases; PCR tests, 4,677; antigen tests, 1,055.

The Health Department reported that the top counties for new cases are Washington, 43; Benton, 34; and Pulaski, 28.

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

“Today's report shows lower active cases and fewer new cases compared to last week. Our vaccination efforts continue as we have doses of all three vaccines available in every county. These vaccines are safe, effective, and offer us the best path forward toward the end of this pandemic.”

Here are today's COVID-19 statewide numbers:

Arkansas Forecasted Rain For the Week from the National Weather Service

Showers and isolated thunderstorms will return to portions of the region today, generally north of the Interstate 30 corridor near a stationary cool front. By this evening, the front will start to slowly push southeastward, bringing increased rain chances to Southeast Oklahoma, adjacent southwest Arkansas, and portions of East Texas. Although the overall threat for severe weather is limited, the Storm Prediction Center has issued a Marginal Risk for these same general areas, with a Slight Risk for the extreme western sections of McCurtain County Oklahoma and Red River County in Texas. Damaging winds and large hail are the main threats. Also, these same locations could see locally heavy rainfall. Localized amounts up to 3 inches will be possible, which could lead to a some isolated flash flooding. In addition to the rain, expect winds to increase today from the south to near 15 mph, with gusts up to 25 mph. A Lake Wind Advisory is in effect from 9 AM to 7 PM this evening, as strong winds will create hazardous conditions on area waterways.

Rain chances will continue to spread across the entire area, as a cool front slowly moves across the region Thursday into Friday morning. Although the overall threat for severe weather is limited, a few strong thunderstorms cannot be ruled out, with locally heavy rainfall possible. Some slightly cooler and drier air will filter into the area in wake of the front, but rain chances will return for the weekend, as an upper level trough moves across the region.

Tuesday's COVID-19 Active Case and Vaccine Updates from the AR Dept of Health

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

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

Active Cases Data for Little River County
Total Active Cases: 7
Active Confirmed Cases: 2
Active Probable Cases: 5

Active Cases Data for Polk County
Total Active Cases: 14
Active Confirmed Cases: 11
Active Probable Cases: 3

Active Cases Data for Pike County
Total Active Cases: 4
Active Confirmed Cases: 3
Active Probable Cases: 1

In its Monday update, the Arkansas Department of Health reported 63 new cases; 1,805 active cases; 170 hospitalized, which is up 18 from Sunday; 27 on ventilators, which is up 3 from Sunday; deaths added today, 2, for a total of 5,720; a total of 334,769 cases; PCR tests, 1,158; antigen tests, 106.

The Health Department reported that the top counties for new cases are Benton, 12; Craighead, 7; and Pulaski and Washington with 6 each.

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

“We have resumed administration of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine today. This is great news, and it will allow us to increase the number of doses administered in the coming days and weeks. If you haven't gotten vaccinated, schedule your appointment today.”

Here are today's COVID-19 statewide numbers:

Weekly Update from State Representative DeAnn Vaught

This week, the Joint Budget Committee advanced two bills outlining the proposed budget for the next fiscal year.

The Revenue Stabilization Act prioritizes and categorizes state spending. It is typically one of the last bills passed every session. This year, the RSA is outlined in two identical bills SB702 and HB1949.

The proposal disburses $5.84 billion in general revenue. While fully funding our obligations, it decreases overall state spending by $50 million.

Proposed increases can be found in Medicaid, corrections, and State Police. The budget also includes the largest percentage increase in educational adequacy in 15 years.

The state’s long-term reserve fund is expected to reach over $700 million by the end of this fiscal year. This savings helps the state to secure lower interest rates and bond ratings.

This week, the House also passed a bill to reduce the sales tax from 6.5% to 3.5% on used cars priced from $4,000-$10,000.

HB1912 passed both chambers and is now awaiting the Governor’s signature.

Other tax measures passing the House this week include HB1719 and HB1456.

HB1719 creates the Reboot Pilot Program. It would provide income tax credits for employers who hire former felony offenders who were released from his or her first term of incarceration in the last year. The maximum amount of this credit is $3,000.

HB1456 creates an income tax in an amount equal to 50% of an eligible railroad track maintenance expenditures. The maximum amount of the credit is $5,000 per mile of track.

On Thursday, 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 previously passed HJR1005 would require statewide ballot initiatives to receive 60% of the vote before becoming law.

Proposed constitutional amendments approved by the General Assembly will be on the November 2022 ballot.

The House expects to enter an extended recess beginning Tuesday, April 27, and return in the fall to address congressional redistricting. The Governor has also indicated he intends to call a special session in the fall to address additional tax cuts.

You can find all House agendas and links to live streams at www.arkansashouse.org.

Monday's SW Arkansas COVID-19 Active Case Numbers and Vaccines

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

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

Active Cases Data for Little River County
Total Active Cases: 8
Active Confirmed Cases: 3
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