Daniel Martínez of UA Cossatot and resident of Lockesburg, Arkansas was recently appointed to the Arkansas Law Enforcement Task Force by Governor Asa Hutchinson on June 11, 2020. Daniel has been selected to represent Southwest Arkansas. He will work with other task force members throughout the state to make recommendations and suggestions to the Governor to enhance trust between law enforcement and communities.
Governor Hutchinson created this task force and selected its members to study and analyze the best practices and procedures for recruiting, training, and maintaining law enforcement officers in the state. The task force members include individuals in law enforcement, community members, and activists.
Martinez plays an active role in his community. He serves on many boards and civic organizations while also volunteering to help make a difference.
After graduating from Lockesburg High School in 2008, Daniel enrolled in college at UA Cossatot. In 2010 he graduated from UA Cossatot with an Associate of Arts degree. In 2013, he became an Administrative Officer for Tres Agaves, and in 2017 he was hired at UA Cossatot for the position of Marketing Coordinator.
Daniel has served on a three-year term as a member of the Board of Directors for the Sevier County De Queen Chamber of Commerce, serving his final year as President in 2019. He is currently in an advisory position to the board as a past president.
Martinez is a member of the De Queen Lion’s Club, and for the past two years, has been a part of the Sevier County Edge (Economic Development for Growth and Excellence) Council. He has also assisted the Sevier County Tourism Committee in the development and creation of the Sevier County tourism logo.
When asked about his new position, Daniel said, “I look forward to representing my community in Southwest Arkansas. I look forward to working with other task force members to help Arkansas Law Enforcement and its communities move forward. I also want to encourage anyone that would like to share concerns or ideas to please contact me via e-mail at dmtz.swark@gmail.com.”
Daniel will work with the Arkansas Law Enforcement Task Force for the remainder of the year to address the pressing issues and concerns that have been discussed across Arkansas and the United States. The task force will make its final recommendations to Governor Hutchinson by December 31, 2020.
Fit 4 Life with Dr Andi Reeves
This week on Fit-4-Life, Dr Andi talks about Pee Wee Boot Camp at Rehab Specialists
Howard County Farmers' Market in Nashville Friday
We will be having the Farmers Market on Friday, 17 July 2020 starting at 7am. We recommend you get there as soon as we open for the best selection. The Farmers Market will be open until 11am or vendors sell out. Friday’s forecast is for a 20% chance of rain. So put an umbrella in the car just in case!
We also request you wear protective masks and follow social distancing of 6 feet separation from others as you shop at the market. Most importantly, please stay home if you are experiencing flu-like symptoms. We want everyone to have a safe time while at the market.
Our vendors will be bringing the following to the market:
- Jamison Orchards –
JulyPrince yellow-fleshed freestone peaches
- Columbus AR Gardens –
Various types of house, herb, and vegetable plants
- Wenta Farm -
Hand-picked blueberries, figs
- Green’s Farm -
Delicious plum jelly, pound cake, tea cakes, apple plum jelly
- Heirloom Farm -
Vine-ripened squash, kale
- Wildflowers -
Garden fresh potatoes, onions, carrots, cucumbers, tomatoes, beans, honey, jams & jellies
- Salinas Farm -
Freshly harvested tomatoes, okra, cantaloupes, cucumbers, zucchini, jams & jellies
- Dupree & Myers Farm
Squash, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, zucchini bread, facemasks, hand sanitizer
- Jamison Orchard -
Wonderful peaches – FirePrince & JulyPrince yellow fleshed, plums
- Threat Farm -
Free-range eggs
- Double J Farm -
Raw Honey
- Carolyn’s Kitchen -
Various freshly baked goods
- Pounds Farm –
Purple hull peas
If more vendors contact the market manager then we will update this post. WIC and SNAP Accepted by participating vendors. We thank you for your patronage!
Baptist Health Center Needs Volunteers for Clinical Research for COVID-19 Vaccine Study
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (News release)- Baptist Health Center for Clinical Research is conducting a late-stage, Phase 3 study on a potential COVID-19 vaccine, and is recruiting volunteers to participate.
Baptist Health Center for Clinical Research announces COVID-19 vaccine study, needs volunteers
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (News release)- Baptist Health Center for Clinical Research is conducting a late-stage, Phase 3 study on a potential COVID-19 vaccine, and is recruiting volunteers to participate. Baptist Health Center for Clinical Research's involvement is part of its Arkansas COVID Vaccine Initiative. Baptist Health is the only site in the state offering this [...]
VIDEO: Governor Hutchinson Provides COVID-19 Update Thursday (07.16.20) 130PM
Governor Asa Hutchinson provides an update to media on Thursday, July 16, 2020, live at 1:30 p.m.. regarding Arkansas's COVID-19 response.
Talk Business and Politics Survey: Most Arkansas Education Union Members Concerned About Schools Reopening
The Arkansas Education Association’s survey of members finds that a supermajority of respondents are concerned about reopening schools this fall in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The survey, released Wednesday, fielded more than 6,100 responses from members with more than 88% being from teachers. Of those teachers, roughly 44% are from the elementary level, 20% teach middle school, 27% cover high school grades, and 9% were classified as other.
Survey: Most Arkansas Education Union Members Concered About Schools Reopening
The Arkansas Education Association's survey of members finds that a supermajority of respondents are concerned about reopening schools this fall in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. The survey, released Wednesday, fielded more than 6,100 responses from members with more than 88% being from teachers.
Red Cross Provides Antibody Testing to Blood Donors
The American Red Cross is in need of donations from donors of all blood types. This summer, the nonprofit is testing all blood, platelet and plasma donations for COVID-19 antibodies as an additional health service to their donors.
https://www.kuaf.com/post/red-cross-provides-antibody-testing-blood-donors
Red Cross Provides Antibody Testing to Blood Donors
The American Red Cross is in need of donations from donors of all blood types. This summer, the nonprofit is testing all blood, platelet and plasma donations for COVID-19 antibodies as an additional health service to their donors.
University of Arkansas Gets $194.7 Million Grant to Fund Research Institute
On Tuesday, the Walton Family Charitable Support Foundation announced it was awarding the University of Arkansas $194.7 million to establish the Institute for Intergrative and Innovative Research with the goal of increasing collaborative scientific research and encouraging commercialization and entrepreneurship. The gift also set aside funds for a building, 20 new faculty and the founding of a Bentonville campus.
https://www.kuaf.com/post/u-gets-1947-million-grant-fund-research-institute-bentonville-campus
U of A Gets $194.7 Million Grant to Fund Research Institute, Bentonville Campus
On Tuesday, the Walton Family Charitable Support Foundation announced it was awarding the University of Arkansas $194.7 million to establish the Institute for Intergrative and Innovative Research with the goal of increasing collaborative scientific research and encouraging commercialization and entrepreneurship. The gift also set aside funds for a building, 20 new faculty and the founding of a Bentonville campus.
Thursday COVID-19 Numbers and Maps
COVID-19 Metrics for Sevier County
Cases
Total Positive: 822
Active Positive: 62
Recovered: 751
Deaths: 9
Negatives: 3,769
COVID-19 Metrics for Howard County
Cases
Total Positive: 157
Active Positive: 38
Recovered: 118
Deaths: 1
Negatives: 1,733
COVID-19 Metrics for Little River County
Cases
Total Positive: 54
Active Positive: 13
Recovered: 41
Deaths: 0
Negatives: 930
COVID-19 Metrics for Polk County
Cases
Total Positive: 94
Active Positive: 14
Recovered: 80
Deaths: 0
Negatives: 1,714
COVID-19 Metrics for Pike County
Cases
Total Positive: 23
Active Positive: 12
Recovered: 11
Deaths: 0
Negatives: 2,059
Heat Advisory Again for Southwest Arkansas Thursday
...HEAT ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 7 PM CDT THIS EVENING...
* WHAT...Afternoon maximum heat index values will range between
105-110 degrees.
* WHERE...Southeast Oklahoma, Southwest Arkansas, Northern
Louisiana, and portions of Northeast and Deep East Texas.
* WHEN...Through 7 PM CDT this evening.
* IMPACTS...Heat and humidity will significantly increase the
potential for heat related illnesses, particularly for those
working or participating in outdoor activities.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...
Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out
of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young
children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles
under any circumstances.
Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When
possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or
evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat
stroke. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when
possible. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational
Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent
rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone
overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location.
Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 9 1 1.
Walmart Requiring Shoppers To Wear Masks Beginning Monday
Walmart says shoppers must wear masks inside its stores starting Monday — the largest retailer to join a growing list of companies making face covering mandatory across the nation.
Walmart and Sam's Club — as well as Kroger — are joining Costco, Starbucks, Best Buy, Panera Bread and others in implementing a nationwide requirement for customers to wear masks inside their stores.
Walmart Will Require Shoppers To Wear Masks; Other Retailers Urged To Follow
Walmart says shoppers must wear masks inside its stores starting Monday - the largest retailer to join a growing list of companies making face covering mandatory across the nation. Walmart and Sam's Club - as well as Kroger - are joining Costco, Starbucks, Best Buy, Panera Bread and others in implementing a nationwide requirement for customers to wear masks inside their stores.
VIDEO: CARES Act Steering Committee Meeting Wednesday (07.15.20)
The CARES Act Steering Committee, created by Governor Asa Hutchinson to recommend the best use of federal COVID-19 aid, will meet virtually at 3:30 p.m. Wednesday.
Arkansas Lottery Director Bishop Woosley To Resign Early August
Bishop Woosley, director of the Arkansas Scholarship Lottery, has submitted his resignation effective Aug. 3 to pursue other opportunities. Department of Finance and Administration Secretary Larry Walther made the announcement Tuesday.
Michael Helms, chief counsel for lottery, will serve as interim director as the search is underway for a new director. A timetable for finding a new director was not released. What other opportunities Woosley plans to pursue also wasn’t noted.
https://www.ualrpublicradio.org/post/arkansas-lottery-director-bishop-woosley-resign-next-month
Arkansas Lottery Director Bishop Woosley To Resign Next Month
Bishop Woosley, director of the Arkansas Scholarship Lottery, has submitted his resignation effective Aug. 3 to pursue other opportunities. Department of Finance and Administration Secretary Larry Walther made the announcement Tuesday. Michael Helms, chief counsel for lottery, will serve as interim director as the search is underway for a new director.
Arkansas County Clerks Begin Issuing Absentee Ballot Applications
Registered voters seeking to avoid crowded voting centers this upcoming General Election during the COVID-19 pandemic can vote absentee, according to a recent directive from Arkansas Secretary of State John Thurston. Applications are required and now available online and via mail by request.
https://www.kuaf.com/post/arkansas-county-clerks-begin-issuing-absentee-ballot-applications
Arkansas County Clerks Begin Issuing Absentee Ballot Applications
Registered voters seeking to avoid crowded voting centers this upcoming General Election during the COVID-19 pandemic can vote absentee, according to a recent directive from Arkansas Secretary of State John Thurston. Applications are required and now available online and via mail by request.
De Queen School Board Met Monday, July 13th
The De Queen School District School Board met in regular session Monday, July 13th, 2020 in the high school cafeteria. During the Superintendent’s report, the board listened to Superintendent Jason Sanders and High School Principal Bryan Blackwood as they explained the proposed procedures and logistics for the Class of 2020 Commencement Ceremony scheduled to be held on Friday, July 31st. Mr. Sanders also described to the board how the district is preparing for the 2020-2021 school year under the "Ready for Learning" guidance from the Arkansas Department of Education. Details of the two topics discussed are below:
Class of 2020 Graduation
The board approved the district to go forward with the proposed plans to hold graduation for the Class of 2020 on Friday, July 31st at Leopard Coliseum. In order to provide a safe environment and to be in line with CDC/ADH guidelines, the graduation ceremony will be divided into three separate sessions. Mr. Blackwood explained that this would allow for enough space for the graduates to be socially distanced on the arena floor. Students will be allowed tickets for up to ten family members which will allow enough room for social distancing in the seating area. The sessions will be separated by enough time to allow the arena to be disinfected, sanitizer stations will be available, and masks will be required for everyone except for children under the age of ten.
Mr. Blackwood and his staff are currently reaching out to members of the Class of 2020 to confirm if they are attending in order to establish an accurate count. Once, the count is established, more information will be released on the times of each session and which session each student will attend.
The high school is also working on providing a live video stream of the event. The graduation plans will be presented this week for state approval. If you have any questions, you are encouraged to call the high school office at 870-642-2426.
Return to School/Ready for Learning Planning:
Mr. Sanders explained to the board that the administration has been busy studying the “Ready for Learning” guidelines and is currently creating plans to follow those guidelines. He explained this district has the challenge of finding a delicate balance of providing a safe environment while providing an effective education to the extent possible.
The “Ready for Learning” guidelines require districts to implement blended learning systems that deliver curriculum, instruction, and assessment both on and off-site through virtual methods. The district recently released a survey to district parents that asked questions regarding internet/cell phone service in their areas and their feelings toward the return to school this fall. More than 600 responded to the survey and the district is currently making plans to address some of the challenges and concerns discovered from the survey.
Mr. Sanders also explained to the board that teachers are the ones closest to the challenges that will come with the return to school and that the district is currently taking steps to hear their concerns and input. Teachers and staff are encouraged to contact their building principal with any questions or concerns they may have as soon as possible. Principals and the administration will meet with teacher representatives on Wednesday, July 13th to hear those concerns and go through a detailed building by building plan for the return to school and ensure that all buildings follow CDC/ADH guidelines to the fullest extent possible.
Wednesday's Arkansas COVID-19 Update from the AR Department of Health
COVID-19 Metrics for Sevier County
Cases
Total Positive: 819
Active Positive: 75
Recovered: 735
Deaths: 9
Negatives: 3,757
COVID-19 Metrics for Howard County
Cases
Total Positive: 154
Active Positive: 38
Recovered: 115
Deaths: 1
Negatives: 1,731
COVID-19 Metrics for Little River County
Cases
Total Positive: 50
Active Positive: 9
Recovered: 41
Deaths: 0
Negatives: 928
COVID-19 Metrics for Polk County
Cases
Total Positive: 90
Active Positive: 12
Recovered: 78
Deaths: 0
Negatives: 1,698
COVID-19 Metrics for Pike County
Cases
Total Positive: 20
Active Positive: 10
Recovered: 10
Deaths: 0
Negatives: 2,044
Wednesday, Another Heat Advisory for SW AR from the NWS
...HEAT ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 7 PM CDT THIS EVENING...
* WHAT...Heat index values between 105 to 109 degrees.
* WHERE...Portions of Northeast Texas, Southeast Oklahoma, and
Southwest Arkansas.
* WHEN...Through 7 PM CDT this evening.
* IMPACTS...Hot afternoon high temperatures and high humidity may
cause heat illnesses to occur.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...
Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out
of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young
children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles
under any circumstances.
Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When
possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or
evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat
stroke. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when
possible. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational
Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent
rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone
overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location.
Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 9 1 1.
VIDEO: Governor Hutchinson Provides COVID-19 Update from Conway (07.15.20) 130PM
Governor Asa Hutchinson provides an update to media from Conway on Wednesday, July 15th, live at 1:30 p.m. regarding Arkansas's COVID-19 response. (Click on Play Button Above)
NWS Issues Heat Advisory Again Tuesday for Southwest Arkansas
...HEAT ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 7 PM CDT THIS EVENING...
* WHAT...Heat index values between 105 to 109 degrees.
* WHERE...Portions of Northeast Texas, Southeast Oklahoma, and
Southwest Arkansas.
* WHEN...Through 7 PM CDT this evening.
* IMPACTS...Hot afternoon high temperatures and high humidity may
cause heat illnesses to occur.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...
Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out
of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young
children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles
under any circumstances.
Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When
possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or
evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat
stroke. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when
possible. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational
Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent
rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone
overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location.
Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 9 1 1.
Arkansans Ready for Football Poll by Talk Business & Politics
After months of social distancing, Arkansans are ready to play some football, but less than a majority think college football should resume this fall.
A new Talk Business & Politics-Hendrix College Poll of 869 likely statewide voters tested the issue and found that a plurality supports the resumption of the fall’s most popular sport, but apprehension abounds.
Q: Based on what you know today about the coronavirus in Arkansas, in your opinion should colleges and universities play football this fall?
45% Yes
29% No
26% Unsure
https://talkbusiness.net/2020/06/poll-arkansans-are-ready-for-some-football/
Poll: Arkansans are ready for some football - Talk Business & Politics
After months of social distancing, Arkansans are ready to play some football, but less than a majority think college football should resume this fall. A new Talk Business & Politics-Hendrix College Poll of 869 likely statewide voters tested the issue and found that a plurality supports the resumption of the fall's most popular sport, but apprehension abounds.