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

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:

Demand Outstrips Supply As State Gets Fewer Than 38,000 COVID-19 Vaccine Doses a Week

By ZUZANNA SITEK

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

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.

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

De Queen Public Schools Preparing Procedures for Valentine’s Day Deliveries

De Queen Public Schools understands that Valentine’s Day brings a lot of excitement for our students, families, and local businesses. We understand that our local florists and other businesses depend on the income generated with the excitement surrounding Valentine’s Day. Having said that, the health of our students and staff remains our top priority, especially during this challenging time. Below are guidelines and procedures for Valentine’s day deliveries. These guidelines and procedures are to ensure a smooth and safe school day on Friday, February 12th.

● We highly encourage parents/guardians to deliver their V-Day gifts on Thursday, February, 11th from 3:30 to 5 PM.

● District staff will be on hand to accept the deliveries

● We are asking flower shops to deliver 3:30 to 5 PM on Thursday, February, 11th.

● There will be no outside food accepted.

We want to again thank you for your continued patience and support during this difficult school year. It is because of that patience and support that De Queen Public Schools continues to have a great school year despite the Covid-19 pandemic.

Beau McCastlain

De Queen Public Schools

Communications Director

Sunday COVID-19 Update from the Arkansas Department of Health

COVID-19 Metrics for Sevier County
Total Active Cases: 63
Active Confirmed Cases: 31
Active Probable Cases: 32

COVID-19 Metrics for Howard County
Total Active Cases: 54
Active Confirmed Cases: 34
Active Probable Cases: 20

COVID-19 Metrics for Little River County
Total Active Cases: 61
Active Confirmed Cases: 36
Active Probable Cases: 25

COVID-19 Metrics for Polk County
Total Active Cases: 171
Active Confirmed Cases: 135
Active Probable Cases: 36

COVID-19 Metrics for Pike County
Total Active Cases: 84
Active Confirmed Cases: 51
Active Probable Cases: 33

Friday COVID-19 Arkansas Health Department Update

Governor Hutchinson Provides Today’s COVID-19 Update

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

In its Thursday update, the Arkansas Department of Health reported 2,491 new cases; 24,740 active cases; 1,295 hospitalized, which is down 67 from Wednesday; 241 on ventilators, which is down 14 from Wednesday; deaths added today, 42, for a total of 4,228; a total of 264,511 cases; 193,321 recoveries; PCR tests, 12,294; antigen tests, 3,161.

The Health Department reported that the top counties for new cases are Pulaski, 327; Washington, 212; Benton, 175; Garland, 127; and Sebastian, 99.

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

"Today's report shows over 800 fewer cases with higher testing than this time last week. We also saw a decrease in hospitalizations and ventilator usage. This will relieve some of the strain on our health care system as we continue to distribute vaccine doses."

Here are today's COVID-19 statewide numbers:

COVID-19 Metrics for Sevier County
Total Cumulative Cases: 2,225
Confirmed Cases: 1,606
Probable Cases: 619
Total Active Cases: 62
Active Confirmed Cases: 32
Active Probable Cases: 30

COVID-19 Metrics for Howard County
Total Cumulative Cases: 1,217
Confirmed Cases: 864
Probable Cases: 353
Total Active Cases: 47
Active Confirmed Cases: 34
Active Probable Cases: 13

COVID-19 Metrics for Little River County
Total Cumulative Cases: 924
Confirmed Cases: 738
Probable Cases: 186
Total Active Cases: 55
Active Confirmed Cases: 36
Active Probable Cases: 19

COVID-19 Metrics for Polk County
Total Cumulative Cases: 1,502
Confirmed Cases: 1,308
Probable Cases: 194
Total Active Cases: 164
Active Confirmed Cases: 131
Active Probable Cases: 33

COVID-19 Metrics for Pike County
Total Cumulative Cases: 813
Confirmed Cases: 641
Probable Cases: 172
Total Active Cases: 80
Active Confirmed Cases: 54
Active Probable Cases: 26

Continuing Education Classes at UA Cossatot

Our Continuing Education & Workforce Development Department has announced a wide range of classes at UAC for the Spring 2021 semester!

Weekly Update from State Representative DeAnn Vaught

Public participation is an essential part of our democracy. In preparation for the upcoming session, House and Senate leadership have agreed to a few rules so Arkansans can participate in an environment that is as safe and healthy as possible.

With limited exceptions, a mask or other cloth face covering will be required to enter committee rooms and public comment holding rooms. All individuals will be submitted to a temperature check and onsite health screening at the entrance to either the State Capitol Building or the adjacent MAC Building.

We have provided nearby space for committee rooms for members of the public to watch the live stream while they wait for their turn to testify for or against a bill. These rooms will provide ample space for social distancing.

Staff will direct you to sign up sheets and they will be available at www.arkleg.state.ar.us .

In an effort to prevent crowds in committee rooms, the rules call for revised committee agendas. These are designed to let the public know what bills will be heard on a given day. Committee agendas will be divided into three categories.

(A) Regular Agenda–bills to be considered by the committee on the date of the agenda.

(B) Consent Agenda–bills on the committee agenda for which there is no known opposition or expected public testimony and that may be taken up at any time by the committee.

(C) Deferred Bills–bills for which committee consideration has been deferred either for failure of the sponsor to appear or at the request of the sponsor.

Committee agendas will be posted at least eighteen (18) hours prior to the committee meeting.

There is limited public seating in the House chamber. Our chamber proceedings and every committee is live streamed and archived on our websitewww.arkansashouse.org.

On Monday, January 11, members will be sworn into office and officially elect the Speaker for the 93rd General Assembly.

On Tuesday, January 12, the Governor will give his State of the State address in the House Chamber.

We will continue to update you during the session.

Single Parent Scholarships Awarded

Single Parent Scholarship Fund of Sevier County

Our Spring semester application process is now open. Just go to aspsf.org to apply for a single parent scholarship. Click on find my county for Sevier County and submit your application. Please include all required forms and downloads before the May 2nd. Deadline. Only fully completed applications will be awarded scholarships.

Election Information from the Sevier County Clerk's Office for the Upcoming School Election

ELECTION INFORMATION FROM THE SEVIER COUNTY CLERK'S OFFICE FOR UPCOMING SCHOOL ELECTION: May 18, 2021

First Day for School Board Candidates to begin getting petition signatures was December 1, 2020.

Filing dates for School Board Candidates begins on Monday, February 22 at 12:00 Noon and ends on Monday, March 1 at 12:00 Noon

Positions to be elected in 2021 are as follows:

Horatio School District – Zone 1, Incumbent is Joe Jones

Zone 4, Incumbent is Sherri Hodges

De Queen School District – Zone 3, Incumbent is Gloria Caldwell

Filing requirements are a Political Practices Pledge, an Affidavit of Eligibility, and a Petition with required number of signatures. ( 20 signatures – be sure to get extra)

The last day to register to vote in the May School Elections will be April 19, 2021.

The last day to transfer from another county in Arkansas is Friday, May 14.

Early voting begins Tuesday, May 11 Early voting is from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Mon. – Fri.

Early voting ends on Monday May 17 at 4:30 p.m.

If you have questions please feel free to call the Sevier County Clerk’s office at 870-642-2852.

ANYONE INTERESTED IN BEING AN ELECTION WORKER IN THE UPCOMING ELECTIONS SHOULD CONTACT THE COUNTY CLERK’S OFFICE AT 870-642-2852.

BE SURE TO MAKE ADDRESS OR NAME CHANGES TO YOUR VOTER REGISTRATION PRIOR TO ELECTION DAY!

IDENTIFICATION WILL BE REQUIRED FROM ALL VOTERS IN THE UPCOMING ELECTIONS.

FRIENDS Foundation Established for Sevier County

Sevier County Economic Development Director Tiffany Maurer has announced that a foundation has been created to benefit Sevier County. The foundation is called FRIENDS, and it recently became an official 501 (c) (3) with the IRS allowing donors to receive tax credits. This foundation aims for funds to be raised from donations to assist Sevier County and its residents in cultivating and completing economic development projects and activities.

FRIENDS stands for Funding Retention and Increasing Efforts for Notable Economic Development in Sevier County. It was created last year with citizens of Sevier County in mind. Anyone who donates a minimum of $100 automatically becomes a member of the FRIENDS Foundation and funds raised will help Sevier County grow financially while also providing the Sevier County Economic Development department with the opportunity to receive money for business development, training, advertising, and assistance with projects to benefit Sevier County residents. The foundation will look for projects within opportunity zones while keeping site selection, business retention, and training efforts in mind to help with business development.

The annual FRIENDS Foundation meeting for 2021 will take place at the Herman Dierks Park Community Building in De Queen on Friday, February 5, 2021, at 11:30 a.m. The meeting is open to the public.

Topics to be discussed at the meeting will include future projects, funding progress toward the annual budget, and potential projects to establish the Sevier County Opportunity Zone Investment Fund. Masks will be required, and social distancing will be encouraged.

For questions on becoming a FRIENDS member or to RSVP for the FRIENDS Foundation’s annual meeting, please contact Sevier County Economic Development Director Tiffany Maurer at tmaurer@cccua.edu or 870-584-1184

New Sevier County Hospital Photos of Progress (Click on Photos to Scroll)

Progress continues on the construction of the new Sevier County Medical Center north of De Queen. These excerpts were taken from this week's field observation report filed by the Little Rock architectural firm Wittenberg, Delony, and Davidson.

De Queen Rotary's Boulevard of Flags

January 31st is the application deadline for the De Queen Rotary Club's "Boulevard of Flags" project.