LITTLE ROCK – The inauguration of President Joe Biden was like no other in our history. I have had the privilege of attending five inaugurations before President Biden’s this week, and the atmosphere this year was understandably more somber than the others. With all that our nation has been through over the past year, including the recent attack on the U.S. Capitol, it was if the nation was holding its breath. But as we always have, the United States peacefully transferred authority from one administration to the next.
This year, I attended the inauguration as a member of the opposition party. After more than two months of angry debate about the outcome, Democrats and Republicans put the arguments in the past and convened peacefully in the nation’s capital to witness our new president swear that to the best of his ability, he will “preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States.”
The inauguration of President Reagan was special for me, even though I watched it from a distance. He followed Jimmy Carter when the country was still healing from the Vietnam War, and we were struggling with high inflation in a sluggish economy. The two main political parties were as divided as they ever had been.
But we handed off the baton without incident. In his inaugural address, President Reagan noted that Americans take for granted the peaceful quadrennial transfer of power.
He said, “The orderly transfer of authority as called for in the Constitution routinely takes place, as it has for almost two centuries, and few of us stop to think how unique we really are. In the eyes of many in the world, this every-four-year ceremony we accept as normal is nothing less than a miracle.”
At this year’s inauguration, my seat was about fifteen yards behind the 46th President of the United States as he delivered his first speech as our Commander in Chief. When you are there, you can’t help but think of all the other presidents and significant Americans who have walked on that very ground over the past two centuries to participate in this wonder of self-government.
This year’s inauguration was no less a miracle than the fifty-eight others that preceded it. Amanda Gorman, the 22-year-old youth poet laureate who delivered her poem, The Hill We Climb, captured it beautifully when she said: “And yet the dawn is ours before we knew it. Somehow we do it. Somehow we weathered and witnessed a nation that isn’t broken, but simply unfinished.”
One of the most difficult hand offs was in 1801 when selection of the president fell to the House of Representatives, who elected Thomas Jefferson over the incumbent John Adams. In a letter that President Jefferson wrote to President Adams towards the end of their lives, Mr. Jefferson recalled that time through the long lens of history. When it was all said and done, he wrote, they had fought for the same cause. He wrote, “It carries me back to the times when, beset with difficulties and dangers, we were fellow laborers in the same cause, struggling for what is most valuable to man … Laboring always at the same oar, with some wave ever ahead threatening to overwhelm us, and yet passing harmless ... we rode (safely) through the storm.”
Once again, the United States has sailed safely through the storm of an election and the transfer of power. It’s a journey I don’t take for granted.
As President Reagan said: “That's our heritage; that is our song. We sing it still. For all our problems, our differences, we are together as of old, as we raise our voices to the God who is the Author of this most tender music. And may He continue to hold us close as we fill the world with our sound—sound in unity, affection, and love—one people under God, dedicated to the dream of freedom that He has placed in the human heart, called upon now to pass that dream on to a waiting and hopeful world.”
These words still ring true today.
Sunday's COVID-19 Update from the AR Dept of Health
COVID-19 Metrics for Sevier County
Total Active Cases: 39
Active Confirmed Cases: 24
Active Probable Cases: 15
COVID-19 Metrics for Howard County
Total Active Cases: 57
Active Confirmed Cases: 33
Active Probable Cases: 24
COVID-19 Metrics for Little River County
Total Active Cases: 54
Active Confirmed Cases: 34
Active Probable Cases: 20
COVID-19 Metrics for Polk County
Total Active Cases: 117
Active Confirmed Cases: 99
Active Probable Cases: 18
COVID-19 Metrics for Pike County
Total Active Cases: 46
Active Confirmed Cases: 32
Active Probable Cases: 14
Landmark Legislation Provides Improved VA Care to Women Veterans
The Deborah Sampson Act is an omnibus bill signed into law Jan. 5, intended to remove barriers to and improve women veterans' medical care at U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs medical centers across the country. Roseanne Harris, RN, Women Veteran Program manager at the Veterans Health Care System of the Ozarks in Fayetteville, details the expanding medical care.
https://www.kuaf.com/post/landmark-legislation-provides-improved-va-care-women-veterans
Health benefits for women are expanding says Roseanne Harris, RN, Women Veteran Program manager at the Veterans Health Care System of the Ozarks.
COURTESY / VHSO
Round Two of Paycheck Protection Program Now Open to Applicants
The Coronavirus Response and Relief Appropriations Act of 2021, approved by Congress in late December, includes $284 billion dollars to assist small business and the self-employed, under a second round of the Paycheck Protection Program. Collaborating with the Small Business Administration, lending institution web portals in Northwest Arkansas are now open for loan applications. Mary Beth Brooks, director of the Small Business Technology Development Center at the University of Arkansas, explains the process.
https://www.kuaf.com/post/round-two-paycheck-protection-program-now-open-applicants
Mary Beth Brooks is director of the Small Business Technology Development Center at the University of Arkansas.
COURTESY / UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS
Friday COVID-19 Update from the Arkansas Department of Health
COVID-19 Metrics for Sevier County
Total Active Cases: 37
Active Confirmed Cases: 22
Active Probable Cases: 15
COVID-19 Metrics for Howard County
Total Active Cases: 44
Active Confirmed Cases: 28
Active Probable Cases: 16
COVID-19 Metrics for Little River County
Total Active Cases: 49
Active Confirmed Cases: 30
Active Probable Cases: 19
COVID-19 Metrics for Polk County
Total Active Cases: 118
Active Confirmed Cases: 103
Active Probable Cases: 15
COVID-19 Metrics for Pike County
Total Active Cases: 58
Active Confirmed Cases: 37
Active Probable Cases: 21
LITTLE ROCK – Governor Asa Hutchinson provided today's update on Arkansas's COVID-19 response.
In its Thursday update, the Arkansas Department of Health reported 3,106 new cases; 20,618 active cases; 1,160 hospitalized, which is down 19 from Wednesday; 195 on ventilators, which is down 17 from Wednesday; deaths added today, 55, for a total of 4,496; a total of 279,220 cases; 205,950 recoveries; PCR tests, 10,413; antigen tests, 2,825.
The Health Department reported that the top counties for new cases are Benton, 360; Pulaski, 344; Washington, 249; Sebastian, 217; and Garland, 135.
Governor Hutchinson released the following statement on today’s COVID-19 numbers:
"The increase in new cases is disappointing & a reminder that we cannot let up in following the public health guidelines. Our vaccines are getting into the arms of Arkansans, but remember, we are totally dependent upon the supply that comes from manufacturers. Right now it is limited."
Here are today's COVID-19 statewide numbers:
Arkansas Senate Passes 'Stand Your Ground' Legislation, Now Heads To House Committee
A bill that would establish a “Stand Your Ground” law in Arkansas was approved Tuesday by the state Senate and now advances to a House committee.
Senators voted 27-7 to pass the bill, with Republicans and one Democrat making up the 27 yes votes, while one Republican joined Democrats in voting no.
Senate Bill 24, which made it through the Senate Judiciary Committee last week, removes the "duty to retreat" in instances of self-defense. The policy, which at least 36 other states have adopted in some form, including all that surround Arkansas, has garnered criticism that it increases violent crime.
Sen. Joyce Elliott, D-Little Rock was one of five Democrats and one Republican to speak against the legislation.
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Demand Outstrips Supply As State Gets Fewer Than 38,000 COVID-19 Vaccine Doses a Week
This week, two groups of people in Phase 1B of the COVID-19 vaccination rollout are eligible to receive the vaccine. They include people over the age of 70, as well as educators and staff at K-12 schools, higher education and daycare facilities. While there's a lot to be excited about, Dr. Jennifer Dillaha, with the Arkansas Department of Health, says the current demand for the vaccine outstrips supply as the state is receiving fewer than 38,000 doses per week.
https://www.kuaf.com/post/demand-outstrips-supply-state-gets-fewer-38000-covid-19-vaccine-doses-week
Pesticide Applicator Training Offered in Sevier County
Submitted by: Rex Herring
Phone: (870) 584-3013
Pesticide Applicator Training Offered
Sevier County Extension Service will hold Pesticide Applicator Training (PAT) sessions on Tuesday, February 9 and on Thursday, February 11, 2021. Pre-registration is required by calling Dana at (870) 584-3013. Due to COVID-19 guidelines, each class is limited to only nine participants. You must wear a mask and follow social distancing guidelines.
Federal Work Study Available for UA Cossatot Students
Wednesday COVID-19 Update from the AR Department of Health
COVID-19 Metrics for Sevier County
Total Active Cases: 51
Active Confirmed Cases: 28
Active Probable Cases: 23
COVID-19 Metrics for Howard County
Total Active Cases: 29
Active Confirmed Cases: 16
Active Probable Cases: 13
COVID-19 Metrics for Little River County
Total Active Cases: 50
Active Confirmed Cases: 32
Active Probable Cases: 18
COVID-19 Metrics for Polk County
Total Active Cases: 120
Active Confirmed Cases: 100
Active Probable Cases: 20
COVID-19 Metrics for Pike County
Total Active Cases: 61
Active Confirmed Cases: 40
Active Probable Cases: 21
Second Round Of Paycheck Protection Loans Open To Arkansas Businesses
By DANIEL BREEN
Arkansas businesses can now apply for a second round of loans through the Paycheck Protection Program, or PPP.
The second set of loans from the federal program opened to businesses getting loans from lenders with under $1 billion in assets late last week, and will open for all other businesses Tuesday.
https://www.ualrpublicradio.org/post/second-round-paycheck-protection-loans-open-arkansas-businesses
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Arkansas Governor Gets COVID-19 Vaccine Calling It Safe And Effective
As Arkansas began the next phase Monday of vaccinating people for the coronavirus, Gov. Asa Hutchinson pulled up his sleeve to get a shot. It happened the same day the state reported 32 additional deaths, but with a sharp decline in active cases and fewer new cases compared to previous Mondays.
The 70-year-old governor told reporters at the Arkansas Department of Health that he wanted to show he and First Lady Susan Hutchinson have confidence in the safety of the vaccine.
Gov. Asa Hutchinson getting a COVID-19 vaccine Monday at the Arkansas Department of Health.
CREDIT MICHAEL HIBBLEN / KUAR NEWS
Two New Members Inducted into De Queen Lions Club Tuesday
Two new members were inducted into De Queen Lions Club Tuesday, Manya Wood and Robert Byrd.
Manya Wood is the District Judge for Sevier County and was sponsored by Chief Scott Simmons of the De Queen Police Department.
Robert Byrd is the Athletic Director and UA Cossatot Colts and Lady Colts Head Coach. He was sponsored by Jon Bunyard, also of UA Cossatot.
Halle Harp, De Queen Lions Club Student of the Month for December
Halle Harp was recognized as Student of the Month for December at Tuesday’s Lions Club meeting. Halle is a senior at De Queen High and is a member of the National Honor Society and cross country and track teams. She is in the Gifted and Talented Program and is student council reporter. Halle was the 2020 Homecoming Queen at De Queen High. She is a DHS Cheerleader, 2-time All American Cheerleader and is cheer captain. She was selected twice to cheer in Orlando, FL at Varsity Spirit Spectacular.
Allen Hong, De Queen Lions Club Student of the Month for January
Allen Hong was recognized for Student of the Month for January at Tuesday’s meeting of the De Queen Lions Club. Allen, a senior at De Queen High School, is an office worker and is a member of the Leopard football, cross country, tennis, basketball, track and soccer teams.
"Starting a Business in Arkansas" Virtual Workshop January 28th
State and local organizations of Arkansas have teamed up to provide information and resources for spanish-speaking entrepreneurs in the natural state this month. The "Starting a Business in Arkansas" workshop will be held virtually on Thursday, January 28th from 6:30-830pm and this event will be delivered in spanish.
Information presented will include legal requirements, licensing, key issues for success in small businesses and more.
This workshop is free of charge and is being sponsored by CREATE BRIDGES, The De Queen/Sevier County Chamber of Commerce, Arkansas Small Business Technology Development Center(ASBTDC), U.S Small Business Administration (SBA) and Henderson State University School of Business.
For Questions, Please contact 870-230-5184 to reach ASBTDC.
LIVE VIDEO: CARES Act Steering Committee Meeting Tuesday (01.19.21) 4PM
The CARES Act Steering Committee, created by Governor Asa Hutchinson to recommend the best use of federal COVID-19 aid, meets virtually at 4 p.m. Tuesday, January 19, 2021.
LIVE VIDEO: Governor Hutchinson Provides Weekly COVID-19 Update Tuesday (01.19.21) 130PM
Governor Asa Hutchinson provides an update to media on Tuesday, January 19, 2021, live at 1:30 p.m. regarding Arkansas's COVID-19 response.
Weekly Update from State Representative DeAnn Vaught
House members are now ready to begin the second week of the 2021 Regular Session.
Nearly 200 bills have been filed so far in the House and more than 135 have been filed in the Senate.
House members elected to serve in the 93rd General Assembly took the oath of office in the House Chamber on Monday. Upon swearing-in, members then voted to name Rep. Matthew J. Shepherd of El Dorado as the Speaker of the Arkansas House. This will be his second full term to serve as Speaker.
Speaker Shepherd announced the chairs for all House committees. You can find a complete list of committee assignments at www.arkansashouse.org.
On the second day of the Regular Session, Governor Asa Hutchinson addressed the General Assembly and outlined his legislative goals for this session.
He said he will be asking the General Assembly to affirm the current health emergency order and direct federal COVID-19 relief funds for vaccine distribution.
The Governor’s legislative agenda also includes the following:
· Increase teacher pay by $2,000 over the next 2 years
· Reduce the used car sales tax
· Reduce income tax for new Arkansas residents
· Appropriate $30 million for increased broadband in rural areas
· Implement a computer science requirement for high school graduation
· Increase sentencing for hate crimes
On Thursday, the House passed resolutions outlining new rules and changes to procedure due to COVID-19. These include mask requirements, changes to committee agendas, and remote voting options for members.
The House will not meet on the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday or on Wednesday during the Presidential Inauguration. We will meet on Tuesday and Thursday next week. Schedules and agendas will be available on our website.
As a reminder, the House live streams all of our meetings on the website. We also posted the guidelines for members of the public who wish to participate in the process at the Capitol.
Tuesday's COVID-19 Numbers and Maps
COVID-19 Metrics for Sevier County
Total Active Cases: 55
Active Confirmed Cases: 30
Active Probable Cases: 25
COVID-19 Metrics for Howard County
Total Active Cases: 38
Active Confirmed Cases: 24
Active Probable Cases: 14
COVID-19 Metrics for Little River County
Total Active Cases: 51
Active Confirmed Cases: 32
Active Probable Cases: 19
COVID-19 Metrics for Polk County
Total Active Cases: 139
Active Confirmed Cases: 113
Active Probable Cases: 26
COVID-19 Metrics for Pike County
Total Active Cases: 65
Active Confirmed Cases: 42
Active Probable Cases: 23
