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

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

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

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

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

Text of the bill may be found here.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In 2000, Congress established the VHP to collect and retain the oral histories of our nation’s veterans. 

Boozman’s staff has conducted dozens of interviews and trained more than 1,200 Arkansans to participate and raise awareness about this initiative. The senator regularly highlights the conversations in ‘Salute to Veterans,’ a series highlighting memories of their time in uniform. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ASP’s Criminal Investigation Division is investigating the incident.

Arkansas medical marijuana sales down 4% through June

by Michael Tilley (mtilley@talkbusiness.net)

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

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

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

Arkansas medical marijuana sales down 4% through June

Bass Reeves portrait to be on display in the Arkansas Capitol

by Michael Tilley (mtilley@talkbusiness.net)

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

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

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

Bass Reeves portrait to be on display in the Arkansas Capitol

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

Attorney General investigating Fort Smith company for potential China connections

by Michael Tilley (mtilley@talkbusiness.net)

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

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

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

Attorney General investigating Fort Smith company for potential China connections

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

To read the order, click here.

To read the original lawsuit, click here.

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

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

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

Wikimedia Image

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

Text of the bill may be found here.

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

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

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

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

Lake Fayetteville monitoring reveals peak months for harmful algal blooms

By John Lovett
University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture
Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Five years of water quality monitoring at Lake Fayetteville is shedding light on the cycles of waterborne nutrients and bacteria-produced toxins, offering a better way to measure the risk to recreational users.

WATER QUALITY — Brad Austin, research scientist with the Arkansas Water Resources Center, monitors the water quality as part of studies on Lake Fayetteville (U of A System Division of Agriculture photo by Paden Johnson)

Water quality scientists with the Arkansas Water Resources Center, a part of the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station, have been examining cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms, or HABs, in the 194-acre body of water since 2018. The lake was created in 1949 to supply the city’s water, but is now used for fishing, kayaking and other recreational uses.

“It’s a small watershed and recreational lake that is heavily influenced by human activity,” said Brian Haggard, director of the Arkansas Water Resources Center and a professor of biological and agricultural engineering. “Now, the watershed is urban, with still some agricultural lands, so it provides a unique opportunity to study a system that has become hypereutrophic.”

Hypereutrophic means the water has high concentrations of nutrients such as phosphorus and nitrogen. While these are necessary for plant growth, when there’s too much, they can spark a “bloom” — an explosive growth of cyanobacteria, which can produce toxins like microcystin. 

“Microcystins are the most studied cyanobacterial toxins, and many species of cyanobacteria can produce this toxin under certain conditions,” Haggard said. “There is a lot of nitrogen and phosphorus that can be released from the lake bottom, which might influence when cyanobacteria produced toxins.”

The nutrients which drive cyanobacterial growth can come from the watershed, especially during storm events which transport nutrients to the lake, he explained. However, the “legacy” nutrients, or nutrients stored within the lake bottom, can also drive harmful algal blooms and toxin production by the cyanobacteria.

Haggard said long-term monitoring of Lake Fayetteville offers practical guidance for people who use the lake, especially kayakers and dog owners, to avoid exposure to microcystins, which can make both people and animals sick.

Even though the City of Fayetteville, which owns the lake, put up a sign recognizing the potential for toxic cyanobacterial blooms, Haggard envisions a more comprehensive and data-driven approach.

“What we would like to move towards is something similar to what the forest service uses for fire risk,” Haggard said. “Are there some parameters we can measure rather easily that can help let us know if the chance of elevated toxins is high?”

Haggard said that expensive toxin analyses could be replaced by simple measurements such as water temperature and the fluorescence of phycocyanin, a pigment used for photosynthesis by cyanobacteria. These more cost-effective measurements could be used as a proxy to decide on whether the microcystin toxin concentration is too high in the lake for safe recreational use.

Since the Arkansas Water Resources Center began routine monitoring at the lake, microcystin has been observed in measurable concentrations greater than the reporting limit of 0.3 micrograms per liter throughout the year. In 2019, microcystin concentrations were measured up to 15 micrograms per liter at the lake — nearly double the recommended limit for contact in a recreational water.

Findings over five years

Haggard and his team at the Arkansas Water Resources Center published a study last year in the Journal of the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers examining a subset of the monitoring data taken in summer 2020 at Lake Fayetteville. The study is titled “Microcystin shows thresholds and hierarchical structure with physiochemical properties at Lake Fayetteville, Arkansas, May through September 2020.”

“Lakes with HABs often have a pattern to when toxins are elevated, and Lake Fayetteville tends to have greater total microcystins during late spring, early summer and then again in fall,” Haggard said. “These peaks in total microcystin coincide with natural hydrodynamics of the lake, that is stratification – when the warm and cold layers set up – and turnover – when those layers remix bring nutrients from the bottom waters up to the upper layers.

“It’s not always this simple, but this has been the pattern at Lake Fayetteville. The cyanobacteria seem to produce more toxins during these periods.”

All lakes with deep enough water experience “turnover.” During the spring, the surface water warms when the deep water stays cooler. However, “when the colder water down there is not mixing with the surface any longer, you can lose all the oxygen.”

When the oxygen is gone or limited, a group of bacteria called facultative anaerobes use nitrates to “breathe,” removing nitrogen from the lake bottom waters through a process called denitrification. After the nitrate is gone, these bacteria seek manganese and iron to metabolize for energy.

Once the bacteria move to manganese and iron, they’re dissolving manganese and iron oxides in the sediments, which have phosphorus and ammonium and other things attached to them, Haggard explained. When metabolizing the manganese and iron, the anaerobic bacteria free up phosphorus and ammonium that goes into the lake bottom water and further builds nutrients.

“In the fall, when the lake mixes, this can bring nutrients up into the water,” Haggard said. “This happens when we see the fall peak in cyanobacterial toxins.”

Haggard’s co-authors on the microcystin thresholds study included Erin Grantz and Brad Austin with the Arkansas Water Resources Center; former graduate students Abbie Lasater with the University of Arkansas biological and agricultural engineering department, and Alyssa Ferri with the crop, soil and environmental sciences department; Nicole Wagner with the biology department at Oakland University; and Thad Scott with the biology department and Center for Reservoirs and Aquatic System Research at Baylor University.

Toxin-risk framework

CASE STUDY — Lake Fayetteville offers scientist with the Arkansas Water Resources Center a case study in an urban lake once mostly surrounded by agricultural land. (U of A System Division of Agriculture photo by Paden Johnson)

Members of Haggard’s team also recently published a peer-reviewed paper in the journal of the University Council on Water Resources. The paper focused on developing a strategy to help inform recreational users of Lake Fayetteville when total microcystins might be elevated. The study is titled “Chlorophyll and phycocyanin raw fluorescence may inform recreational lake managers on cyanobacterial HABs and toxins: Lake Fayetteville case study.” It is this initial study that the Arkansas Water Resources Center is building on to help create a toxin-risk framework like that used to warn of fire danger in forests.

“The goal is to help inform the recreational users when the risk of cyanobacterial HABs that might be producing elevated toxins is low, medium, high and very high,” Haggard said. “This way the signage about cyanobacterial HABs and toxins can be updated on a more timely basis, and it does not become a static sign that people often disregard.”

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

Department of Agriculture warns of invasive plant species spreading in state

by George Jared (gjared@talkbusiness.net)

The Arkansas Department of Agriculture has issued a public service announcement to raise awareness about the presence and potential threats posed by invasive plant species recently identified in Arkansas. The three are cogongrass (Imperata cylindrica), Manchurian wild rice (Zizania latifolia), and water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes).

Invasive species, whether plants, animals, or other organisms, are non-native to an ecosystem and can cause significant economic, environmental, or health-related harm upon introduction.

The Arkansas Department of Agriculture, through various programs and in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Agriculture Cooperative Agricultural Pest Survey Program, actively monitors and surveys for invasive species to mitigate their impact.

Department of Agriculture warns of invasive plant species spreading in state

Practice caution to prevent heat-related illness

By Rebekah Hall
U of A System Division of Agriculture

LITTLE ROCK — With summer 2024 on track to be the hottest summer on record for many cities in the U.S., it’s important to follow heat safety guidelines to prevent sunburns, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

Bryan Mader, extension assistant professor of health for the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, said people should practice caution when temperatures reach above average highs for their specific region.

STAYING SAFE IN THE HEAT — Bryan Mader, extension assistant professor of health for the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, said it's important for people to take precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat rash and heat cramps. (Division of Agriculture graphic.) 

“While there is not a specific temperature — such as 100 degrees Fahrenheit — at which we should be more concerned than another, a simple way to think about being extra cautious around heat is when temperatures and humidity are above average for a given geographic area,” Mader said. “Because some places are hotter than others, this depends on what’s considered average for a particular location at that time of year. Humid and muggy conditions can make it seem hotter than it really is.”

Heat-related illnesses are preventable if precautions are taken, Mader said. These illnesses, such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke, occur when the body is not able to properly cool itself.

“While the body normally cools itself by sweating, during extreme heat, this might not be enough,” Mader said. “In some cases, a person’s body temperature rises faster than it can cool itself down. This can cause damage to the brain and other vital organs.”

Though everyone is susceptible to heat-related illness, Mader said there are special populations who should take extra caution during heat exposure. Those at increased risk include adults 65 and older, infants and children, pregnant women and people with chronic illnesses such as heart disease or cancer. People without access to air conditioning, athletes and outdoor workers are also at a higher risk.

Signs of heat-related illness

• Heat stroke: A high body temperature greater than 103 F; hot, red or dry skin; fast pulse; dizziness, nausea, confusion and loss of consciousness.

• Heat exhaustion: Heavy sweating; cold, pale and clammy skin; fast, weak pulse; nausea or vomiting; muscle cramps, tiredness or weakness; dizziness; headache and fainting.

• Heat cramps: Heavy sweating during intense exercise; muscle pain or spasms.

• Heat rash: Red clusters of small blisters that look like pimples on the skin, usually on the neck, chest, groin, elbows or on the anterior side of arms.

Heat-related illness prevention tips

• Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothes to improve airflow and aid in natural cooling.

• Stay indoors when able, and avoid using appliances that give off heat.

• Do not leave children, or anyone else, in cars unattended. Double check all the seats in your vehicle before walking away.

• Schedule outdoor activities with a plan in place. Try to limit outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day. Rest, often, in shaded areas to limit heat exposure.

• Wear sunscreen to protect your skin, and wear hats, long sleeves and pants when able, and when it does not restrict your movements or your ability to sweat naturally.

• Drink plenty of fluids, and do not consume sugary or alcoholic beverages when you are in the heat.

• Replace salts and minerals, such as electrolytes, frequently during heat exposure. Sweating eliminates electrolytes, which can be replaced using a sports drink, or another source for replenishing minerals.

• Stay informed about changes in the weather, especially related to extreme temperatures, humidity and UV exposure.

• Use a buddy system, especially for outdoor workers or athletes, to ensure safety.

• Check on those who are at high risk, especially if they do not have air conditioning in their home or place of employment.

Mader said that while working in the heat, it is recommended to drink at least 8 ounces of water every 15-20 minutes. This translates to approximately 24-32 ounces per hour of heat exposure.

For more information about healthy living, visit the Cooperative Extension Service’s Health in Arkansas website.

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

Governor Sanders announces Taber Extrusions expansion in Russellville, Arkansas

FARNBOROUGH, U.K. – Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders joined Taber Extrusions at the Farnborough Airshow to announce the company is expanding its facility in Russellville, Arkansas, and introducing the largest direct extrusion press in North America. The company is investing over $60 million in the expansion and expects to create 70 new jobs.

Governor Sanders joined company executives and state economic development officials for the announcement of the expansion at the 2024 Farnborough International Airshow, where the Governor is meeting with aerospace and defense businesses to encourage them to invest in Arkansas. The announcement was made at the Forum Main Stage at the USA Partnership Pavilion.

“Announcements like this don’t happen by accident,” said Governor Sanders. “It took pro-growth policies in Little Rock, a pro-business mentality in Russellville, and a proactive presence at events like the Farnborough Airshow to secure Taber’s investment. I’m grateful to this great Arkansas company for their continued commitment to the Natural State.”

“We are excited for this expansion as it provides the capability and capacity needed in the large shape extrusion market,” said Chuck Stout, President of Taber Extrusions. “This investment highlights our commitment to continue to serve our national defense, aerospace, and large industrial market partners.”

This expansion is designed to meet the rigorous demands of the aerospace industry and is expected to go live in 2026. Taber Extrusions has been in business in the Russellville area for five decades, though considered several other states for this expansion. Russellville beat out the alternative choices because of its convenient location, strong local workforce, and competitive state incentives.

“It’s an honor to join Taber Extrusions at the Farnborough International Airshow to announce its latest expansion in Russellville Arkansas,” said Clint O’Neal, Executive Director of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission. “Taber Extrusions has operated in Arkansas since 1976, and we look forward to many more years of business success for them. Congratulations to the City of Russellville on this economic development win, which creates 70 new jobs in the River Valley region.”

“As someone who calls Russellville home, I am proud that Taber Extrusions has chosen our vibrant community for their expansion,” said Dr. Megan Selman, President and CEO of the Russellville Area Chamber of Commerce. “This decision speaks volumes about the strength of our local economy and the high quality of life in Russellville. Our strategic location and dynamic business environment make it the ideal place for companies to grow and succeed.” 

“Taber Extrusions has been a cornerstone of Russellville for as long as I can remember,” said Russellville Mayor Fred Teague. “The presence of the Taber brand in our community exemplifies how local efforts can have a global impact. Our residents create products that touch lives around the world, and I am thrilled to witness the Taber brand’s local expansion. I look forward to collaborating with everyone involved in this exciting development. I am confident that this expansion will bring new job opportunities, benefiting both Russellville and many families in our area.”

“Taber Extrusions has been a steadfast partner, employer, and manufacturer in our community for half a century,” said Pope County Judge Ben Cross. “As one of the bedrock fabricators of some of the world’s most premier aluminum products, this investment in our county will ensure good quality jobs and local growth in this sector, keeping “Made in America” at the forefront of their commitment to excellence.  I applaud Taber Extrusions, the Arkansas Economic Development Commission, and the Russellville Regional Alliance for Economic Development, on their combined efforts to see this day come to fruition.”

Arkansas Supreme Court orders Secretary of State to count abortion ballot signatures

by Roby Brock (roby@talkbusiness.net)

The Arkansas Supreme Court on Tuesday (July 23) granted an expedited hearing and ordered Secretary of State John Thurston to perform an initial count of signatures collected by a group seeking to qualify an abortion amendment for the November ballot.

The court order said: “Arkansas Secretary of State is ordered to perform the initial count of signatures collected by volunteer canvassers” according to Arkansas code by Monday, July 29 at 9am.

“The court reserves the right to issue further orders and proceed in accordance with state law,” it reads.

Three Supreme Court justices signed the order, including Chief Justice John Dan Kemp, Justice Karen Baker and Justice Courtney Hudson.

Arkansas Supreme Court orders Secretary of State to count abortion ballot signatures

Amazon Prime Day sales rise 11% to $14.2 billion

by Kim Souza (ksouza@talkbusiness.net)

Consumers showed up big for Amazon’s annual Prime Day sales event spending 11% more this year thanks in part to deeper discounted prices, according to Adobe Analytics. Sales for the two-day event (July 16-17) totaled $14.2 billion, up $1.2 billion from last year’s event.

Adobe reports consumers spent $7.2 billion on day one and $7 billion on day two. Most of the spending growth resulted from bigger demand rather than inflation.

The event was held more than a week later this year to be closer to back-to-school shopping. Adobe said spending on backpacks, lunch boxes, stationery and school supplies was up 216% in the two days compared to the average daily spend for those items during June 2024. Also, spending on youth apparel rose 165% in the same period.

Amazon Prime Day sales rise 11% to $14.2 billion

Attorney general requests dismissal of Arkansas Abortion Amendment lawsuit

KUAR | By Mary Hennigan / Arkansas Advocate

Attorney General Tim Griffin on Friday filed a motion asking the Arkansas Supreme Court to dismiss a lawsuit challenging Secretary of State John Thurston’s recent rejection of the proposed Arkansas Abortion Amendment of 2024.

Arkansans for Limited Government (AFLG), the ballot question committee supporting the proposed constitutional amendment, filed a lawsuit Tuesday asking the state Supreme Court to order Thurston to count the more than 101,000 signatures the group submitted in support of the measure on July 5.

The group also asked the court to expedite the case with a temporary restraining order or preliminary injunction overruling Thurston’s decision not to count the signatures.

Attorney general requests dismissal of Arkansas Abortion Amendment lawsuit

Courtesy Photo/Facebook

Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin

Farm transition planning focus of upcoming conference

By Drew Viguet
National Agricultural Law Center
U of A System Division of Agriculture

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — The transition of farms from one generation to the next is vital to the success of U.S. agriculture, and an upcoming conference is designed for professionals invested in farm transition planning.

The Cultivating Connections Conference brings together professionals from across the country to discuss an important topic: the successful transition of farms from one generation to the next. The second annual conference is Aug. 5-6. (U of A System Division of Agriculture photo by Mary Hightower)

The average age of U.S. farmers continues to increase. According to the 2022 USDA Census of Agriculture, the average producer is 58.1 years old, 0.6 years older than in the 2017 Census and 9.4 years older than the 1945 Census, the first to report an average age. Further, data from the 2022 Census also shows that over 60 percent of all producers are 55 years of age or older.

While creating a farm transition plan is an important aspect of ensuring a farm continues to the next generation, it can also be overlooked. The Cultivating Connections Conference provides a learning and discussion forum on farm transition plans.

The conference, which will be held Aug. 5-6 at the University of Cincinnati College of Law, brings together attorneys, accountants, appraisers, educators and other farm transition planners to connect and learn about strategies for successful transition plans.

“The Cultivating Connections Conference targets the professionals who enable a critical issue today: the successful transfer of agricultural operations from one generation to the next,” Peggy Hall, director of The Ohio State University Agricultural and Resource Law Program, said.

The conference is a joint effort, hosted by The OSU Agricultural and Resource Law Program and co-sponsored by the Center for Agricultural Law and Taxation at Iowa State University (CALT) and the National Agricultural Law Center (NALC). Speakers include attorneys, accountants, academics and appraisers. NALC Senior Staff Attorney Elizabeth Rumley is speaking at the event during a session on replenishing rural practice.

Registration for the conference, including in-person and virtual options, is available online until Aug. 2. Conference organizers have applied for Continuing Legal Education credits for Ohio and Iowa as well as IRS Continuing Education credits.

“One of the NALC’s strongest assets is its partners, and the Cultivating Connections Conference is a great development out of that partnership,” NALC Director Harrison Pittman said. “It brings together a talented network of skilled professionals focused on a very important topic — helping families preserve their farms as well as the communities and industries that depend upon families’ success.”

Hall said the conference, which is in its second year, is an opportunity for farm transition planners to learn effective strategies for planning and network with other professionals who share the same goals. Following the inaugural conference in 2023, The OSU Agricultural and Resource Law Program, CALT and the NALC partnered to create the Association of Farm Transition Planners, a network whose mission is increasing the number of skilled professionals assisting farmers with succession and transition planning. The association connects conference participants to helpful resources throughout the year.

“This event aims to build strong relationships and foster a supportive community dedicated to preserving the legacy and sustainability of family farms for future generations,” Hall said.

U.S. News Names UAMS a Best Medical School for Primary Care, Rural Practice

By Linda Satter

LITTLE ROCK — The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) continues to climb U.S. News & World Report’s list of Best Medical Schools.

The magazine’s annual ranking of medical and osteopathic schools across the country was released today, showing that for 2024, UAMS ranked fourth nationally for primary care education, ninth for the most graduates practicing in health professional shortage areas and 11th nationally for graduates practicing in rural areas.

UAMS was the only medical or osteopathic school in Arkansas to be recognized.

“We are proud to be recognized again as a national leader in educating and training graduates who go on to practice primary care and in rural areas,” said Steven A. Webber, M.D., executive vice chancellor of UAMS and dean of the College of Medicine. “We are working hard to generate more primary care physicians for communities across our state, to ensure all Arkansans have access to high-quality primary care. The latest Best Medical Schools rankings demonstrate our progress and success in this crucial area.”

U.S. News Names UAMS a Best Medical School for Primary Care, Rural Practice

U.S. News & World Report ranked the UAMS College of Medicine fourth nationally for graduates going into primary care, ninth for the most graduates practicing in health professional shortage areas and 11th nationally for graduates practicing in rural areas.

Arkansas State Board of Election Commissioners sued over 'wet signature rule'

KUAR | By Josie Lenora

Get Loud Arkansas was using snail mail to register people to vote. Sounds simple, but it proved to be tricky. Most voter forms, sent through the mail, weren't being filled out and sent back.

“We had a huge drop off at that point,” she said. “We sent them out their applications and the applications never got turned in. About 33% actually made it all the way through the process.”

That's Kristin Foster, Deputy Executive Director of Get Loud Arkansas. The group's main purpose is to get more people signed up to vote. In 2022, she went to the polls to cast a ballot, and got an idea.

Arkansas State Board of Election Commissioners sued over 'wet signature rule'

Mary Hennigan/Arkansas Advocate

State Board of Election Commissioners approved the signature decision at a meeting.

ICYMI: Womack secures numerous Third District wins in FY25 appropriations bills

Washington, DC—July 19, 2024…Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3), a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee and Chairman of the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD) Subcommittee, authored, secured, and voted to pass funding for Third District priorities within the Fiscal Year 2025 Appropriations bills, all of which have advanced out of the committee as of last week.

Congressman Womack said, “Arkansans sent me to Congress to deliver results that will have real impacts on their daily lives. Whether the project focuses on improving infrastructure in Northwest Arkansas, preparing Fort Smith for the FMS mission, or supporting our hardworking firefighters' efforts to keep us safe, I want to ensure the needs of our growing region are met. Securing wins to improve the quality of life for Third District Arkansans remains my priority on the House Appropriations Committee.”

Below are the FY25 Appropriations bills that contain direct wins for Arkansas’ Third District with details about each provision’s impacts.

Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies

• Arkansas Highway 112 – $6 million

• This project will fund the construction of safety, operational and congestion improvements on various segments of Highway 112 from Bentonville to Fayetteville. These improvements will include major widening, raised medians, pedestrian improvements, traffic signal upgrades, and roundabouts.

• Benton County Water System Improvements – $1.75 million

• This project will upgrade the current water system to a loop system and provide newer, larger pipes that can keep up with the water demand of the growing area.

• Construction of Future Interstate 49 – $3 million

• This project will fund the construction of a segment of future Interstate 49 and provide congestion relief for the cities of Fort Smith and Van Buren.

• Farmington Bridge Repairs – $6.5 million

• This project will provide funds to replace two functionally obsolete bridges that are located on Double Springs Road in Farmington, Arkansas.

• Huntsville Water System Improvements – $3 million

• This project will provide upgrades to the Huntsville water system, including building a water tower and upgrading the sewer lines and plant.

• Mulberry Food Pantry – $500,000

• This project will provide funds to the City of Mulberry to update the Community Food Pantry to increase its capacity and comply with the American Disabilities Act.

• Northeastern Benton County Fire Station Improvements – $1.25 million

• This project will provide funds for facility construction and upgrades, including structure material, heating and air, a new water line and additional equipment, including a new fire truck.

• North Central Crawford County Water Systems Improvements – $4.4 million

• This project will provide funds for a water system extension to serve approximately 350 users in North Central Crawford County who currently do not have access to a potable water supply.

• Springdale Northern Bypass – $59 million

• This funding will help complete the U.S. Highway 412 Springdale Northern Bypass by constructing a four-lane, divided highway with fully controlled access built to interstate standards.

• Towson Avenue Improvements – $12.5 million

• This project will provide funds to improve Highway 71B/Towson Ave. in Fort Smith by enhancing pedestrian accommodations and improving drainage.

Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies

• Ebbing Air National Guard Academic Training Center – $70 million

• The funding would be used to construct a F-35 Academic Training Center and Liquid Oxygen Supply Storage facility for the Foreign Military Sales F-35 program’s Pilot Training Center. The facility will provide spaces for training classrooms, flight simulator spaces, conference rooms, and administrative support spaces for the F-35 FMS Pilot Training Center mission.

Defense

• Ebbing Air National Guard Base Foreign Military Sales Mission – $36.743 million

• This funding will support continued infrastructure investments required to stand up the Foreign Military Sales mission at Ebbing Air National Guard Base.

Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration

• Berryville Hospital MRI –$1.376 million

• This funding will go toward equipment for an MRI unit for Berryville Hospital.

• Pea Ridge Fire Station – $2.75 million

• This funding will go toward the construction of a new fire station for the City of Pea Ridge’s Fire Department, which will provide increased fire and EMS capacity.

Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies

• Elkins Water System Improvements – $3.75 million

• This project will provide upgrades to the current water systems and help provide ratepayer relief.

• Springdale Water System Improvements – $3 million

• This project will provide funds to expand sewer infrastructure over very difficult and challenging terrain to the eastern border of Springdale.

Read about each of the FY25 Appropriations bills here.