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Sevier County Hospital Board Update From Chairman Dr. Steve Cole

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We have completed / executed these contracts that all relate to construction: (Company name listed first)

1. Terracon (Phase One Environmental Study) ($2300), SOILS Engineering and Soil Borings ($14,000)) This company will be on site next week to begin prep work and prepare for groundbreaking.

2. Bond Consulting (Civil Engineering) ($113,000) This company will also begin work immediately.

3. BXS ($6,519) D and O Insurance

4. GE (Capital Medical Equipment) (2.3 Million in the form of a long-term lease agreement)

5. We have had one conference with Network Solutions to develop a scope of work for IT. We have also reached out to Edafio of North Little Rock for IT services.

6. As of 4-16-2020 the County officially owns the land on which the hospital will be built.

7. We are keeping up with the bond market and right now, it would not be prudent to sell bonds at this time. We are still very much in a state of flux with our finances due to COVID-19. We will continue to monitor the economy and rely on bond counsel for the proper time to sell bonds.

8. We are currently preparing to erect a sign to put on our property that shows the hospital and expected completion date. We hope to secure a local vendor to complete this work.

In all, even though COVID-19 is making work difficult, the board continues to move forward where we can. We appreciate each and every person in this community for their support and because of the current health care crisis, we all have an even greater appreciation of the need for our own hospital close to home.

Dr. Steve Cole

Chancellor

UA Cossatot

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Weekly Update from State Representative DeAnn Vaught

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While we are facing difficult and uncertain times, Arkansans should know that essential services in state government will continue.

This week during the 2020 Fiscal Session, the Arkansas General Assembly passed a balanced budget for the next fiscal year prioritizing funding for education, health care, and public safety.

The 2021 Fiscal Year begins July 1.

The Revenue Stabilization Act passed this week prioritizes $5.9 billion in spending for the next fiscal year. By law, the RSA prioritizes spending in categories with Category A spending first. This year’s RSA creates 5 categories: A, A1, B, C, and D.

Category A includes $5.3 billion in funding. Every state agency receives the majority of funding in Category A. This category also includes $60 million to the Restricted Reserve Fund which can be accessed for any urgent or unforeseen funding needs.

Category A1 includes $181.4 in funding for elementary and secondary education, Medicaid, and the Department of Correction to ensure these essential services are fully funded.

The total funding outlined in categories A, A1, B, and C total $5.67 billion. This is equal to the amount of revenue currently forecasted.

Due to the economic downturn created by the pandemic, the Department of Finance and Administration recently reduced the 2021 forecast for net general revenue available by $205.9 million.

To accommodate that reduction, $212 million of the budget is listed in Category D. Should the economy bounce back above the current forecast, the funds would be distributed as outlined in that category.

The Governor is reviewing guidance from medical experts on how to safety to re-engage businesses after Arkansas sees a decline in COVID-19 cases. The peak is expected around May 4. We do not anticipate our economy will slow down, but rather that we are on pause.

The House will reconvene on Friday, April 24 at noon to address any unfinished business and officially adjourn the 2020 Fiscal Session Sine Die.

You can watch live and recorded sessions of the House on our website. We have also posted a link to the legislation outlining next year’s budget. Visit: www.arkansashouse.org

Home - Arkansas House of Representatives

ARGIRLSLEAD #ARGIRLSLEAD is a movement started by women serving in the Arkansas House. Each of them have a unique story to share about their journey on the road to their current leadership position. Kids In The House Who says civics can't be fun?

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Governor Hutchinson Announces New Economic Recovery Task Force

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LITTLE ROCK – Governor Asa Hutchinson has created the Governor’s Economic Recovery Task Force to develop an industry-specific strategy and make recommendations to the Governor for Arkansas’s economic recovery from the effects of COVID-19, the Governor announced at a news conference today.

The task force, established by Executive Order 20-20, will include 27 leaders from the private sector and public agencies who will examine the impact of COVID-19 on businesses and industries in the state. The task force will recommend a strategy to the Governor for our economy to shift out of low gear consistent with public-health guidance.

On Friday, Governor Hutchinson set May 4 as the date he hopes to begin to ease restrictions in Arkansas. The task force will meet next week.

Steuart L. Walton, a business leader and philanthropist who holds degrees in business administration and law, will chair the committee.

“Steuart’s Arkansas roots run deep, and he knows and loves the state,” Governor Hutchinson said. “Steuart is engaged in the hospitality, manufacturing, and retail industries. He understands the needs of small business. He is engaged in philanthropy across Arkansas. He is the perfect choice to lead this task force to help restore our economy.”

Members of the Governor’s Economic Recovery Task Force are:

  • Steuart Walton, Runway Group (Chair)

  • Wes Ward, Department of Agriculture

  • Mike Preston, Department of Commerce

  • Stacy Hurst, Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism

  • Ted Thomas, Public Service Commission

  • Randy Zook, Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce

  • Sylvester Smith, National Federation of Independent Business

  • Joey Dean, Associated General Contractors of Arkansas

  • Annemarie Jazic, Dillard’s Inc.

  • Charlie Spakes, Arkansas Grocers and Retail Merchants Association

  • Montine McNulty, Arkansas Hospitality Association

  • Kelly Eichler, Indoor Recreational Facilities

  • Deke Whitbeck, Arkansas Game and Fish Foundation

  • Lance Taylor, Arkansas Activities Association

  • Hunter Yurachek, University of Arkansas

  • Shannon Newton, Arkansas Trucking Association

  • Charles Frazier, Rock Region METRO

  • Lorrie Trogden, Arkansas Bankers Association

  • Dr. Sonny Tucker, Arkansas Southern Baptist Convention

  • Bishop Gary Mueller, Arkansas Conference of United Methodists

  • Bishop Michael Mitchell, African Methodist Episcopal Church 12th District

  • Dr. Richard Abernathy, Arkansas Association of Educational Administrators

  • Andy Goodman, Arkansas Independent Colleges and Universities

  • Andrea Henderson, Arkansas Association of Community Colleges

  • Dr. Chuck Welch, Arkansas State University System

  • David Wroten, Arkansas Medical Society

  • Bo Ryall, Arkansas Hospital Association

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Telemedicine takes Root in Sevier County with Positive Results

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For the complete story, visit:

https://www.dequeenbee.com

Telemedicine takes root in Sevier County with positive results

It was only a few weeks ago that the fledgling industry of telemedicine was being hailed as the future of medical care that would one day become the norm. Then came the coronavirus and covid-19 and visiting the doctor's office began to be discouraged as it was fast becoming just another opportunity to catch the virus that is taking a toll on healthcare professionals and the communities they serve.

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Maurer to Assume Role of Sevier County Economic Development Director

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Tiffany Maurer of De Queen has been chosen to be the new Economic Development Coordinator for Sevier County, replacing Lisa Taylor, who recently took the same job in Durant, Oklahoma.
“Tiffany’s hiring came the day before the COVID-19 outbreak in Arkansas”, according to Rural Development Authority Chair, Dr. Steve Cole, “So Tiffany has not really had a chance to get out in the public and meet people.”
Maurer comes to the position after serving more than four years in the Financial Aid department at UA Cossatot. Cole added, “What Tiffany lacks in top-level economic development experience, she more than makes up for with energy, drive, and a natural understanding of what true economic development is and means for the community”.
Maurer’s job activities have been limited by the recent COVID-19 outbreak, but she has still been busy, making key contacts with local, state and regional leaders plus helping the Sevier County Chamber of Commerce create and design the new Sevierly Strong – Stronger Together “We’re Open” campaign, the new campaign designed to let everyone know that Sevier County businesses are open for business.
“Over the next several weeks, and after the COVID-19 restrictions are relaxed, Tiffany will be gaining momentum on all of our economic development efforts to improve Sevier County and our way of life”, added Cole.
The Sevier County Economic Development position is officially recognized by the Arkansas Economic Development Commission as the Economic Developer, Property Manager, and Community Editor for the county and is a collaborative effort between the Rural Development Authority, the City of De Queen, Sevier County, the De Queen Industrial Board, and UA Cossatot.

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AUDIO: Governor Hutchinson’s Weekly Address | Improving the Unemployment Benefits System

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LITTLE ROCK – Today I’d like to a talk about the improvements we’ve made to our unemployment benefits system. I want to assure the thousands of Arkansans who have lost a job because of the COVID-19 pandemic that we are working diligently to get the benefits out the door.

Eighty state employees are answering the telephones at the call center seven days a week from 6 a.m. until 4 p.m. Then they work until 6 p.m to make sure applicants are getting what they need.

The Division of Workforce Services has just launched a new one-stop website that will accelerate the process for those who need answers or who need to file an unemployment claim.

ARunemployment.com includes a link to EZARC, where the unemployed can file a claim. The new website will provide regularly updated information regarding COVID-19-related unemployment benefits.

The COVID-19 pandemic has forced us to rearrange almost everything about our lives. As painful as these adjustments have been, they were right and necessary. The health of Arkansans continues to be my highest priority.

As we dealt with the devastating impact of the physical health of Arkansans, we also have had to deal with the economic health of the state and the financial health of thousands of Arkansans who have been thrown out of work.

We have taken some steps to lighten the load for the newly unemployed, including a temporary waiver of the requirement to search for a new job while you receive unemployment.

It is not an exaggeration to say that this health crisis has been a blow to the Arkansas economy. For several years, we have enjoyed business expansion and job creation that produced the lowest unemployment rates in the state’s history.

Then the coronavirus came ashore, and suddenly the unemployment rate has increased significantly.

The current crisis is not over, but it will end. We will recover. This has stalled us, but it hasn’t cracked the solid economic foundation we’ve built through the achievements of Arkansans who have created hundreds of businesses big and small. We have created a business environment that attracts business.

Arkansas is a small state, but we have built a reputation that is bigger than our boundaries and population. We have built a state that is bigger than a historic flood or a worldwide health crisis. The people of Arkansas care for each other.  

As to the future, we will get back to business and growth, but we must continue to follow the public health guidelines to make sure our citizens stay healthy and safe.

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Public Health Emergency Regulatory Suspensions Pursuant to Executive Order 20-06 and 20-16

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On March 17, 2020, Governor Asa Hutchinson issued Executive Order 20-06, ordering state agencies to “identify provisions of any regulatory statute, agency order or rule that in any way prevents, hinders, or delays the agency’s ability to render maximum assistance” to Arkansans during the COVID-19 health emergency. The Order instructed state agencies to identify regulatory statutes, orders, and rules that are hindering or preventing the rapid response necessary to combat the spread of and recovery from COVID-19. The Order requires agencies to identify any such statutes, orders, or rules on its website. Once posted, the statute, rule, or order is deemed suspended for thirty (30) days from the effective date of EO 20-06. On April 13, 2020, Governor Asa Hutchinson issued Executive Order 20-16, extending the suspension until this emergency subsides.

The Secretary of Health has identified certain statutes and rules issued by the Department that he deems a hindrance to mitigating the spread of COVID-19.

They include the following:

Dept of HealthMedical Marijuana patient applicationsArkansas Medical Marijuana Amendment of 2016:
Amendment 98

Extending the expiration dates on cards expiring in the 30 day period until emergency declaration is concluded and crisis passes.

Telehealth for the PWC is temporarily allowed until emergency declaration is concluded

Dept of HealthHome Health Agencies20-10-806 and Rules for Home Health AgenciesSurveys and inspections are temporarily suspended, with the exception of immediate jeopardy complaints:

  • Suspended RN supervisory visits

  • Allow extension of current care.

Dept of Health, HospitalTerm: “Physician” is assumed to be that of a medical doctor.

Emergency Definition:

“Physician” means Qualified Medical Professional, working within their scope of practice.

Qualified Medical Professional also includes:

  • Physician assistant

  • Nurse practitioner

  • Clinical nurse specialist

  • Certified registered nurse anesthetist

  • Certified nurse-midwife

  • Clinical social worker

  • Clinical psychologist

  • Anesthesiologist’s Assistant

  • Registered dietician or nutrition professional

Dept of HealthState Hospital RulesThe Medical Staff will be responsible for assuring these professionals provide quality care, they also can approve roles and responsibilities (privileges) to members.

Section 6: Medical Staff

B.  Medical Staff Bylaws

1.  Medical Staff shall be responsible to the Governing Body of the facility for the quality of medical care provided for patients in the hospital and for the clinical and professional practices of members.Dept of HealthArkansas Rules for Hospitals and Related Institutions, Section 11.E.1There shall be no more beds maintained in the building than the number of beds for which the hospital is licensed except in the case of a public disaster or national emergency and then only as a temporary measure.There is no need to request an increase in licensed beds at this time as we are under a National/State Emergency with the Covid-19 outbreak.Dept. of HealthNewborn Screening Program20-15-301 and Act 113 of 1995CAH programs do not provide direct services for newborn screening or infant hearing. CAH programs oversee the following statutes and rules which require person-to-person contact during service delivery. Each of these services occur following birth of a child where person-to-person contact is required.Dept. of HealthInfant Hearing ProgramAct 1559 of 1999. 20-15-1501CAH programs do not provide direct services for newborn screening or infant hearing. CAH programs oversee the following statutes and rules which require person-to-person contact during service delivery. Each of these services occur following birth of a child where person-to-person contact is required.Dept. of HealthLicensed Lay MidwiferyLLM Rule 302.01Risk Assessments.Dept. of HealthLicensed Lay MidwiferyLLM Rule 302.02Required Antepartum Services at or Near the Initiation of Care.Dept. of HealthLicensed Lay MidwiferyLLM Rule 302.04.01Routine antepartum visits must be made approximately every four (4) weeks during the first 28 weeks of gestation, approximately every two (2) weeks from the 28th to 36th weeks, and weekly thereafter until delivery.Dept. of Health

Licensed Lay Midwifery

LLM Rule 302.05Required Antepartum Services at 24-28 weeksRow►Dept. of Health

Licensed Lay Midwifery

LLM Rule 302.06Required Antepartum Services at 35 to 37 weeksDept. of Health

Licensed Lay Midwifery

LLM Rule 302.07.01Pre-Delivery Home VisitDept. of HealthEmergency Medical ServicesLicensure Renewal ExtendedDept. of HealthEMS/Trauma

  1. Aligning with NREMT and allow for provisional licensure for paramedic, EMT and AEMT licenses. Looking at the data, we will only have 24 paramedic candidates who could be eligible for this provisional certification, provided the students pass the paramedic course and the cognitive exam. We have an additional 118 paramedic candidates that will possibly be eligible by September. With clinical and field internships delayed, these student’s graduation dates may be delayed. While this may not gain a large number of individuals, under these particular circumstances, some may be better than none.

  2. EMS providers that did not recertify within the past 4 years, be looked at for temporary licensure as well. These individuals could not have had their license revoked or suspended by the Agency, but that were in good standing when they relinquished their license. All EMS providers work under the direction of a medical director, EMS agencies could vet these candidates with "temp" licenses and use them should their personnel get ill or are otherwise restricted from work.

Dept. of HealthSECTION IV. GROUND AMBULANCE SERVICE LICENSURE CLASSIFICATION STANDARDS B. 6.

Tiered Response: A licensed ambulance service which has its own dispatch center and uses a dispatch process with certified emergency medical dispatchers that is recognized by the Section and is reliably able to differentiate and categorize the severity of the emergency call may assign the appropriate level of ambulance to that call. Services utilizing a tiered response dispatch process shall meet the following provisions:

a. The emergency call must be answered and screened by a certified Emergency Medical Dispatcher (EMD). EMD Certification must be obtained and maintained by a National Recognized Certifying body that is recognized by the Section of EMS.

b. The EMD Center must have Medical Direction oversight.

c. The service shall be required to have a quality assurance program in place to insure compliance with their service protocols and shall be reviewed by the Medical Director within 30 days of the call date.

d. All tiered responses that require a higher level intercept shall be tracked separately and reported to the section on a quarterly basis.

e. The service shall have a process in place that would specifically and reliably identify which calls are appropriate for less than the highest level of permitted ambulance and track all calls in which this dispatch process is implemented.

f. All requirements are met for the ambulance that is responding for equipment, personnel and licensure standards set forth in regulation.

 

Dept. of HealthSECTION IV. GROUND AMBULANCE SERVICE LICENSURE CLASSIFICATION STANDARDS A. 2 -4

2. Licensed Paramedic Services shall have fifty percent (50%) or more ambulances permitted at the Paramedic level. Only licensed Paramedic Services may operate Paramedic ambulances.

3. Licensed Advanced EMT Services shall have fifty percent (50%) or more ambulances permitted at the Advanced EMT level. Only Advanced EMT and Paramedic Services may operate Advanced EMT ambulances.

4. Licensed EMT Services shall have ambulances permitted only at the EMT level. Paramedic and Advanced EMT Services may also operate EMT ambulances.

Dept. of HealthD. Specific Standards 1. B., 3. B., 4. B., 5.B.Temporary Rule to Implement:
Remove the 2-minute reaction time. This will also for proper triage and screening to ensure the protection of the responding providers and allow for proper PPE to be used and ambulance to be configured if needed.Dept. of HealthSECTION V. PERMITTING OF GROUND EMERGENCY VEHICLES B. Vehicle General Standards 5., 9., 10

5. New ambulances replacing a permitted vehicle or being added to an existing service license must be inspected and permitted prior to being placed in service.

9. Only ambulances of a Paramedic or Advanced EMT Service shall be equipped with ALS Equipment unless a prior request for an upgrade has been made and approved by the department.

10. Temporary upgrades and downgrades of permitted ambulances are for mechanical reasons only and must be for a temporary period of time. Notice shall be made in writing on approved forms to the Department prior to any changes in equipment or staffing of permitted ambulances. Upgrades and downgrades are not permitted for the purposes of staffing. Permanent upgrades and downgrades shall follow the same guidelines as a new vehicle permit.

Dept. of HealthSECTION V. PERMITTING OF GROUND EMERGENCY VEHICLES C. Ambulance Staffing Requirements 1-7Temporary Rule to Implement:
Allow ambulance services to staff their ambulance with the highest trained personnel available to respond for service. This may include adding physicians, nurses, or other licensed healthcare providers.
Allow ambulance services to staff their ambulance with a driver who is not currently licensed as an EMS provider.Dept. of HealthSECTION IX. EDUCATION, TESTING AND LICENSURE OF PERSONNEL B. 5.Emergency Vehicle Operator: a. Successful completion of a National recognized First Responder Course of a minimum of 40 hours of training. b. Copy of a current signed Healthcare Provider CPR card (Must follow current American Heart Association Guidelines and require a hands on skills component) documenting completion of a CPR course designed specifically for healthcare providers. c. Emergency Vehicle Operator Course d. 10 hours of refresher training every two years to include emergency vehicle operations.Dept. of HealthSECTION IX. EDUCATION, TESTING AND LICENSURE OF PERSONNEL C. 1-2Directive already issued to extend relicensure deadline to June 30, 2020 See directive at https://www.healthy.arkansas.gov/images/uploads/pdf/license_renewal_extension.pdf.Dept. of HealthOther Suggestions

  1. Mechanisms for temporary licensure of EMS providers who have lapsed licensure within the past 5 years. We could modify licensure and credentialing procedures to meet the exigencies of the situation while assuring public health and safety.

    • The state could implement a just-in-time training program, combined with appropriate and coordinated information to the EMS medical directors and EMS providers, that will help to ensure appropriate and competent medical care.

  2. All EMS providers to include points of referral for patients who need information but do not need emergency care or transport. Allow EMS Services to not transport patients that would not need emergency transport, but provide information of health alternatives, or connect them to a COVID evaluation hotline. the appropriate care may be to have individuals stay at home and practice social distancing and quarantine measures rather than be transported to a healthcare facility.

    • EMS Treat and Release - Community containment strategies designed to limit the spread of the virus may require patients be treated and released without transport. Additionally, healthcare facilities may become overwhelmed with patients, making it necessary to consider alternative options for patients who can be safely treated without transport.

    • If a treatment without transport role is deemed appropriate for EMS providers, the EMS medical director, in coordination with local public health authorities, should establish criteria and reporting requirements.

    • “Treat and release” and “treatment without transport” protocols require oversight by EMS medical directors.

    • EMS agencies and EMS medical directors should coordinate with the local public health authorities to pre-determine the destination of both suspected COVID-19 and positive COVID-19.

      • Appropriate education programs for EMS personnel, physicians, and the public should be established before the implementation of non-transport policies. 

Dept. of Health Rules pertaining to Tuberculosis (2020)Temporarily suspending baseline screening for health care workers and long-term care

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From the Office of the Chancellor

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The COVID-19 outbreak continues to be the dominating presence in our daily lives and at UA Cossatot. From day one of this outbreak, we have been focused on the safety of our students, staff, and stakeholders and as we move forward, we will continue to do just that. According to most models that predict the peak of the COVID-19 outbreak for the United States, the peak in Arkansas is expected to occur around May 2nd. With this information, and input from colleagues around the state, it makes good sense for all of us at UA Cossatot to continue what we are presently doing. This means until at least May 1st, our campuses will continue to be closed to students and visitors and our employees will continue to work on campus, or from home if they are set up to do so. Those that do come to campus to work will be under strict guidance to practice social distancing and when at all possible, wear masks to protect each other.

We will continue to serve and provide all the resources our students need to be successful in their online learning environment. We do have a plan in place to take care of our hands-on, technical course students. That will occur after May 1st, providing it is safe to do so and we have the proper permissions from the UA System.

As for the summer and fall semesters, our registration is open for both semesters. We have made our entire registration process available online for the safety and convenience of our students. Our website contains all the information students need to register: https://www.cccua.edu.

Our summer term will feature ONLY online courses, including some new and innovative courses that our faculty have put together to accommodate our students.

We are planning on a full and normal fall 2020 semester.

These are unprecedented and unexplored times but we will all make it through by working together. You can always find more UA Cossatot information on Facebook (ED88 and UAC) and on our ed88radio.com and CCCUA.EDU website.

Cossatot Community College

UA Cossatot embraces diversity and is committed to improving the lives of those in our region by providing quality education, outstanding service, and relevant industry training. The University of Arkansas - Cossatot Community College offers degrees and certificates in more than two dozen fields.

Thank You,

Dr. Steve Cole

Chancellor, UA Cossatot

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UA Cossatot Summer and Fall 2020 Registration Now Open

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UA Cossatot’s summer and fall registration is now open to everyone with the summer semester set to begin on Monday, June 1, 2020. Students can sign up for classes by contacting a Student Services Advisor online, over the phone, through text message, or through Facebook messenger.

The complete full class schedule for the summer and fall courses can be viewed at UA Cossatot’s website at www.cccua.edu/enroll.

Cossatot Community College

Click the following links to access the PDF version of the current or upcoming semester's full course schedule. Summer 2020 Schedule (3.26.2020) Fall 2020 Schedule (4.16.2020 Find specific courses through Campus Connect Course Search. There's no need to login.

All classes offered this summer will be available online, and several online options are available this fall. The college if offering courses for specific programs as well as general education.

Incoming students or prospective students can take steps to enroll in any UA Cossatot course by contacting any one of the seven Student Services Advisors at UA Cossatot. Advisors include: Addison Hill, Rachel Barfield, Jocelin Galvez, Lizz Garza, Sheila McCandless, Holly Norman, and Suzanne Ward.

Their individual e-mail addresses and phone numbers can be viewed on UA Cossatot’s website under the employee directory by clicking on their name at www.cccua.edu/directory. On Facebook, students can search the advisor’s name at UA Cossatot to locate them and send them a message.

Cossatot Community College

©2020 Cossatot Community College of the University of Arkansas

Due to Covid-19, UA Cossatot’s Campuses are currently closed to the public, but Student Services Advisors are still working from home.

For any questions, please contact UA Cossatot at 870-584-4471.

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Boozman, Cotton & Womack Honor Arkansas Sailor Who Died of COVID-19

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A photo provided by the U.S. Navy shows Chief Petty Officer Charles Robert Thacker Jr., 41, of Fort Smith, Ark., assigned to the U.S.S. Theodore Roosevelt, who died from the coronavirus Monday, April 13, 2020, at U.S. Naval Hospital Guam. …

A photo provided by the U.S. Navy shows Chief Petty Officer Charles Robert Thacker Jr., 41, of Fort Smith, Ark., assigned to the U.S.S. Theodore Roosevelt, who died from the coronavirus Monday, April 13, 2020, at U.S. Naval Hospital Guam. 

U.S. Navy/AP

WASHINGTON— U.S. Senators John Boozman and Tom Cotton—along with Congressman Steve Womack—honored the service and life of Fort Smith, Arkansas native Chief Petty Officer Charles Robert Thacker, Jr. who died as a result of coronavirus related complications after serving aboard the USS Theodore Roosevelt.

“Chief Petty Officer Charles Thacker, Jr. honorably served our country in uniform. His dedication to our nation was perhaps only surpassed by the tremendous love he had for his dear family. Petty Officer Thacker’s appreciation for the special things in life – particularly his loved ones and passions – reminds us how precious time really is and how this virus poses a threat to all of us, even the warriors dedicated to defending America. My thoughts and prayers are with the Thacker family and all who counted Petty Officer Thacker as a friend or loved one. We honor his life and service in uniform, and pledge to keep this proud son of Arkansas’s legacy alive in the years to come,” Boozman said.

“I’m saddened to hear of the passing of Chief Petty Officer Charles Thacker, Jr. His service to the country has earned my utmost gratitude, and my deepest condolences go to his family, friends, and crewmates,” Cotton said.

Womack said, “Today, Fort Smith and the State of Arkansas mourn the passing of a brave patriot and sailor. Chief Petty Officer Charles Robert Thacker, Jr. defended our nation and upheld his duty to serve and protect freedom. This is a great loss against an unprecedented enemy, and we must continue to amplify resources on all levels to defeat this virus and safeguard personnel. My deepest condolences go out to the Thacker family, his loved ones, and fellow service members. Though no words can heal the pain, our community sends prayers of comfort and strength during this time.”

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61% of All Courses at UA Cossatot are Textbook-Free

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As summer and fall registration takes place, UA Cossatot is proud to announce that 61% of all courses do not require a textbook. Five years ago, UA Cossatot became the first two-year college in Arkansas to abandon its traditional campus bookstore and create an internal textbook rental and open educational resource (OER) program. UA Cossatot quickly became a state leader in the OER movement with faculty using more open resources than any other two-year college in Arkansas. The college also became the first in the state to join the Open Textbook Network, which elevated its use of OER.

Instead of asking students to purchase an expensive textbook, the college chooses to help students financially by offering courses that do not require a textbook at all and instead use open resources that maintain high academic quality. This move has saved UA Cossatot students over 1.6 million dollars.

UA Cossatot Director of Educational Resources and OER Specialist, Relinda Ruth said, “With the current Covid-19 situation changing the way we traditionally function, many more faculty are choosing open resources to ensure students have access to free high-quality academic resources. In the fall, the business department will be 81 % OER, and the English department will be 100 % OER, which is a major accomplishment for our college and a tremendous benefit to UA Cossatot students!”

As UA Cossatot continues to be a leader in online education, students at UA Cossatot can expect more classes to use OER, which makes higher education more affordable. A chancellor-appointed OER Board reviews all open resources to ensure the college’s high standard for academic quality continues.

For more information about UA Cossatot’s textbook rental/OER program, please contact Relinda Ruth at rruth@cccua.edu.

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Governor Asa Hutchinson Announces Appointments

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LITTLE ROCK – Governor Asa Hutchinson today announced the following appointments:

Judge Mark Pate, Searcy, as Circuit Judge of the Seventeenth Judicial District, Division 2.  Appointment begins May 1, 2020, and expires December 31, 2020.  Replaces Judge Robert Edwards.

Judge-elect Eric Kennedy, Des Arc, as State District Court Judge of the Twenty-Third District, Division 1.  Appointment begins May 1, 2020, and expires December 31, 2020.  Replaces Judge Mark Pate.

Judge Keith Caviness, Plainview, as District Judge for the Northern District of Yell County.  Appointment expires December 31, 2020.  Replaces Judge Carol Collins.

Blair Allen, Little Rock, to the State Parks, Recreation, and Travel Commission.  Appointment expires January 14, 2026.  Replaces Bill Barnes.

Bob Connell, Fairfield Bay, to the State Parks, Recreation, and Travel Commission.  Appointment expires January 14, 2026.  Replaces Bob Knight.

Molly Jackson, Blytheville, to the State Parks, Recreation, and Travel Commission.  Appointment expires January 14, 2026.  Replaces Cindy Smith.

Mike Wilson, Little Rock, to the State Parks, Recreation, and Travel Commission.  Appointment expires January 14, 2026.  Reappointment.

Amy Arnone, Cabot, to the State Council for the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children. Appointment expires August 15, 2022. Replaces Ronald Harder.

Donald Morton, Jr., Des Arc, to the Arkansas Soybean Promotion Board. Appointment expires June 30, 2021. Reappointment.

Joy Blankenship, Pine Bluff, to the Arkansas Motor Vehicle Commission. Appointment expires January 14, 2027. Reappointment.

Steven Blackwood, Little Rock, to the Department of Human Services State Institutional System Board. Appointment expires June 30, 2022. Replaces Nelson Driver.

Timothy Atkinson, White Hall, to the Arkansas State Board of Athletic Training.  Appointment expires January 14, 2023.  Reappointment.

Joe Mounts, Ozark, to the Technology Equipment Revolving Loan Fund Committee. Appointment expires June 30, 2022. Replaces Scott Jones.

Mary Jean Campo, Hot Springs, to the Technology Equipment Revolving Loan Fund Committee. Appointment expires June 30, 2022. Replaces April Hamilton.

Allen Trammell, Alexander, to the Arkansas Home Inspector Registration Board. Appointment expires January 26, 2022. Reappointment. 

William McBride, Benton, to the Arkansas Home Inspector Registration Board. Appointment expires January 26, 2022. Reappointment. 

Daniel Burkhead, Benton, to the Arkansas Home Inspector Registration Board. Appointment expires January 26, 2022. Replaces Wayne Pace.

Mark Taylor, Hector, to the Arkansas Early Childhood Commission. Appointment expires June 30, 2020. Replaces Deb Tackett.

Tiffany Sharp, Brookland, to the Arkansas Early Childhood Commission. Appointment expires June 30, 2021. Replaces Ava Coleman.

Dr. Cheri Smith, Searcy, to the Arkansas Early Childhood Commission. Appointment expires June 30, 2022. Replaces Glenda Ezell.

Matthew Hyneman, Jonesboro, to the Boll Weevil Eradication Committee. Appointment expires July 1, 2023. Reappointment.

Pace Hindsley, Marvell, to the Boll Weevil Eradication Committee. Appointment expires July 1, 2023. Reappointment.

Scott Bray, Alexander, to the Boll Weevil Eradication Committee. Appointment expires July 1, 2020. Replaces Butch Calhoun.

Ed Vance, Benton, to the State Board of Collection Agencies. Appointment expires January 1, 2023. Reappointment.

Sandra Jackson, Maumelle, to the State Board of Collection Agencies. Appointment expires January 1, 2022. Reappointment. 

Warner Smith, Smackover, to the State Board of Collection Agencies. Appointment expires January 1, 2022. Reappointment.

Tyler Steele, Bentonville, to the State Board of Collection Agencies. Appointment expires January 1, 2023. New Position.

Terrance Scott, Cotton Plant, to the Arkansas Wheat Promotion Board. Appointment expires June 30, 2021. Replaces Jackie Prince.

Blake Swears, Carlisle, to the Arkansas Wheat Promotion Board. Appointment expires June 30, 2021. Reappointment.

Kenneth Clark, Newport, to the Arkansas Wheat Promotion Board. Appointment expires June 30, 2021. Reappointment.

Tony Schwarz, Weiner, to the Arkansas Wheat Promotion Board. Appointment expires June 30, 2021. Reappointment.

David Wallace, Jr., Crawfordsville, to the Arkansas Wheat Promotion Board. Appointment expires June 30, 2021. Reappointment.

Dr. Charles Bower, Springdale, to the Universal Newborn Hearing Screening, Tracking, and Intervention Advisory Board. Appointment expires January 14, 2022. Reappointment. 

Dr. Hillary Jones, Jonesboro, to the Universal Newborn Hearing Screening, Tracking, and Intervention Advisory Board. Appointment expires January 14, 2023. Replaces Nannette Nicholson. 

Dr. Jennifer Rigsby, Maumelle, to the Universal Newborn Hearing Screening, Tracking, and Intervention Advisory Board. Appointment expires January 14, 2022. Reappointment. 

Dr. Rachel Glade, Fayetteville, to the Universal Newborn Hearing Screening, Tracking, and Intervention Advisory Board. Appointment expires January 14, 2023. Replaces Judith Eddington.

Dr. Tammy Vanover, Little Rock, to the Universal Newborn Hearing Screening, Tracking, and Intervention Advisory Board. Appointment expires January 14, 2023. Reappointment. 

Una Carroll, North Little Rock, to the Universal Newborn Hearing Screening, Tracking, and Intervention Advisory Board. Appointment expires January 14, 2022. Reappointment.

Dr. Cassondra Williams-Stokes, Little Rock, to the Arkansas State Independent Living Council. Appointment expires February 1, 2023. Reappointment. 

Thomas Connell, Hope, to the Arkansas State Independent Living Council. Appointment expires February 1, 2023. Reappointment. 

Dewey Graves, Jonesboro, to the Arkansas State Independent Living Council. Appointment expires February 1, 2023. Reappointment. 

Shannon Davis, Monette, to the Arkansas State Independent Living Council. Appointment expires February 1, 2023. Replaces Ezell Breedlove.

Kimberly Gatewood, Little Rock, to the Arkansas State Independent Living Council. Appointment expires February 1, 2023. New Position.

Darnell Rice, Mabelvale, to the Arkansas State Independent Living Council. Appointment expires February 1, 2023. Replaces Worthie Springer, III.

Paul Hastings, Little Rock, to the Marine Sanitation Advisory Committee. Appointment expires October 5, 2021. Reappointment. 

Tom Jones, Little Rock, to the Marine Sanitation Advisory Committee. Appointment expires October 5, 2020. Reappointment. 

Todd Gadberry, Royal, to the Marine Sanitation Advisory Committee. Appointment expires October 5, 2022. Reappointment. 

Clay Crump, Kirby, to the Marine Sanitation Advisory Committee. Appointment expires October 5, 2021. Reappointment. 

Amanda Furgerson, Damascus, to the Marine Sanitation Advisory Committee. Appointment expires October 5, 2022. Replaces Kevin Lorenz. 

Scott Bramlett, Clinton, to the Marine Sanitation Advisory Committee. Appointment expires October 5, 2020. Replaces Scott Landers. 

Christopher Sanborn, Mountain Home, to the Marine Sanitation Advisory Committee. Appointment expires October 5, 2021. Reappointment.

Dr. Toby Vancil, Little Rock, to the Tobacco Prevention and Cessation Advisory Committee. Appointment expires October 1, 2023. Replaces James Meserow.

Daphne Gaulden, Little Rock, to the Tobacco Prevention and Cessation Advisory Committee. Appointment expires October 1, 2021. Replaces Louise Scott.

Jonathan Wilson, Little Rock, to the Tobacco Prevention and Cessation Advisory Committee. Appointment expires October 1, 2023. Replaces Carole Garner.

Dr. Rhonda Mattox, Roland, to the Tobacco Prevention and Cessation Advisory Committee. Appointment expires October 1, 2022. Replaces William Greenfield.

Dr. Jennifer Redmond-Knight, Little Rock, to the Tobacco Prevention and Cessation Advisory Committee. Appointment expires October 1, 2020. Replaces Wonder Lowe. 

Dr. Pebbles Fagan, Little Rock, to the Tobacco Prevention and Cessation Advisory Committee. Appointment expires October 1, 2020. Replaces Stephen Copley.

Shelly Brown, Austin, to the Tobacco Prevention and Cessation Advisory Committee. Appointment expires October 1, 2021. Replaces Edward Rhodes.

Jerri Clark, Cabot, to the Tobacco Prevention and Cessation Advisory Committee. Appointment expires October 1, 2023. Reappointment.

Chelsea Conway, Smithville, to the Tobacco Prevention and Cessation Advisory Committee. Appointment expires October 1, 2020. Replaces Dr. J. David Busby.

Ruthie Johnson, Pine Bluff, to the Tobacco Prevention and Cessation Advisory Committee. Appointment expires October 1, 2023. Replaces Jerry Lewis.