Governor Asa Hutchinson provides an update to media on Monday, August 10, 2020, live at 1:30 p.m. regarding Arkansas's COVID-19 response.
Sunday's COVID-19 Update
COVID-19 Metrics for Sevier County
Cases
Total Positive: 988
Active Positive: 55
Recovered: 923
Deaths: 10
Negatives: 4,545
COVID-19 Metrics for Howard County
Cases
Total Positive: 336
Active Positive: 74
Recovered: 259
Deaths: 3
Negatives: 2,478
COVID-19 Metrics for Little River County
Cases
Total Positive: 180
Active Positive: 72
Recovered: 107
Deaths: 1
Negatives: 1,221
COVID-19 Metrics for Polk County
Cases
Total Positive: 140
Active Positive: 12
Recovered: 127
Deaths: 1
Negatives: 2,258
COVID-19 Metrics for Pike County
Cases
Total Positive: 101
Active Positive: 26
Recovered: 74
Deaths: 1
Negatives: 2,864
Governor Hutchinson’s Weekly Address | Arkansas’s New Secretary of Health
LITTLE ROCK – I have appointed Dr. José Romero as Secretary of the Arkansas Department of Health, and today I’d like to share some things about the man who is assuming this job in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic.
Dr. Romero moved to Arkansas in 2008 as Director of the Section of Pediatric Infectious Diseases at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. He also served in a similar position at the Arkansas Children’s Hospital. He served as the Director of Clinical Trials Research at Arkansas Children’s Research Institute from 2008-2019.
Dr. Nate Smith, our former Secretary of Health who has now taken a position with the Centers for Disease Control in Atlanta, named Dr. Romero as the department’s chief medical officer in the spring. When Dr. Smith left for his new job, I named Dr. Romero interim secretary. And this week, I offered him the job as secretary.
It was an easy choice. Dr. Romero has devoted his career to public health, and he has earned a distinguished national reputation for his work in infectious diseases.
Dr. Romero was born in Mexico, where his grandfather worked the land, taught himself to read and write, and eventually owned a small grocery story. His grandfather’s goal for his children was simple. He wanted them to learn to read and write. Shortly after Dr. Romero was born, his parents moved to Michigan, where his father earned a master’s degree in civil engineering. Many of the bridges he designed in California are still standing.
Dr. Romero, who was a competitive swimmer as a teenager, spent most of his childhood in California. His brothers and sister were born in the United States. He became a citizen when he was in the sixth grade. At his naturalization ceremony, the judge asked young José to recite the Pledge of Allegiance.
He knew from a young age that he wanted to be a doctor, and he returned to Guadalajara for medical school, where he graduated in the top 1 percent of his class.
His resume includes an impressive list of jobs, appointments, and accomplishments. He is chairman of the Center for Disease Control’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, which is providing guidance nationally on the development and administration of a COVID-19 vaccine.
Much of his work has involved the study of pediatric infectious diseases. In his well-rounded career, Dr. Romero has done almost everything – from research to leading hospital departments – which has prepared him well to lead the Arkansas Department of Health.
We are blessed that Dr. Romero chose to make Arkansas his home. I am grateful he has agreed to become our Secretary of Health at this difficult time.
Governor Hutchinson Proclaims COVID-19 A Valid Reason to Vote Absentee; Order Also Gives Elections Officials Extra Time to Process Ballots
LITTLE ROCK – Governor Asa Hutchinson issued an executive order today that allows Arkansans to vote absentee if they are concerned that voting in person may be a risk to their health or the health of others because of COVID-19. Executive Order 20-44 also allows elections officials to start processing the absentee ballots a week earlier than usual to allow for an anticipated increase in the number of absentee voters. He issued the executive order in response to an official request from the Arkansas Association of County Clerks.
“This order affirms Secretary of State John Thurston’s position that the fear of exposure to COVID-19 or of exposing others at the polls is reason enough for a voter to cast an absentee ballot,” Governor Hutchinson said. “If a significant number of voters chooses that option, elections officials could be overwhelmed. We’ve already seen a significant increase in the number of applications for absentee ballots. This executive order builds in extra time for them to process and authenticate absentee ballots to ensure an accurate count and a fair election.”
The additional number of days for processing ballots will coincide with the 15-day early voting period. During that time, elections officials will be allowed to process only the registration information from the outer envelopes of an absentee ballot. By Arkansas law, they will not be permitted to open the ballots and count absentee votes until 8:30 a.m. election day. The deadlines for applying for an absentee ballot and submitting a completed ballot remain the same.
The application for absentee ballots and the deadlines are available on the Secretary of State’s website.
Executive Order 20-44 is on Governor Asa Hutchinson’s website.
Friday's COVID-19 Updated Numbers and Maps
COVID-19 Metrics for Sevier County
Cases
Total Positive: 969
Active Positive: 49
Recovered: 910
Deaths: 10
Negatives: 4,478
COVID-19 Metrics for Howard County
Cases
Total Positive: 322
Active Positive: 68
Recovered: 251
Deaths: 3
Negatives: 2,446
COVID-19 Metrics for Little River County
Cases
Total Positive: 164
Active Positive: 69
Recovered: 94
Deaths: 1
Negatives: 1,209
COVID-19 Metrics for Polk County
Cases
Total Positive: 137
Active Positive: 13
Recovered: 123
Deaths: 1
Negatives: 2,202
COVID-19 Metrics for Pike County
Cases
Total Positive: 91
Active Positive: 21
Recovered: 69
Deaths: 1
Negatives: 2,784
Public Comments Being Heard on Southwest Trail Linking Little Rock and Hot Springs
Seven years after a proposal was announced for a pedestrian and cycling trail linking Little Rock and Hot Springs, a key step toward creation of the Southwest Trail is underway. A virtual public hearing is taking place online through Aug. 26 allowing people to view the preferred alignment for the route, an interactive map, and offer comments on the project which has an estimated construction cost of $43 million.
Public Comments Being Heard On Southwest Trail Linking Little Rock And Hot Springs
Seven years after a proposal was announced for a pedestrian and cycling trail linking Little Rock and Hot Springs, a key step toward creation of the Southwest Trail is underway. A virtual public hearing is taking place online through Aug.
Low Response Rate on 2020 Census Could Cost Arkansas Billions
Arkansans could lose billions in federal funding as a result of changes to the 2020 census. Earlier this week, the U.S. Census Bureau announced the deadline for states to accept responses is now September 30, a full month earlier than previously planned.
According to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau, Arkansas's response rate of 57.7% is among the lowest in the nation. The national self-response rate is 63%. The census count, which is taken once every decade, is also used to determine political districts and representation.
https://www.ualrpublicradio.org/post/low-response-rate-2020-census-could-cost-arkansas-billions
Low Response Rate On 2020 Census Could Cost Arkansas Billions
Arkansans could lose billions in federal funding as a result of changes to the 2020 census. Earlier this week, the U.S. Census Bureau announced the deadline for states to accept responses is now September 30, a full month earlier than previously planned.
Suspect Pleads Guilty To Murder Of Former Arkansas State Senator Linda Collins
Rebecca O’Donnell pleaded guilty Thursday in the death of former Arkansas state Sen. Linda Collins and was sentenced to 50 years in prison. The plea deal includes charges of first-degree murder, abuse of a corpse and two no-contest pleas to solicit murder in Jackson County.
O’Donnell had worked for Smith in her business ventures and on political campaigns. Had she not accepted the deal, O’Donnell was facing a potential death sentence if the case went to trial.
Suspect Pleads Guilty To Murder Of Former Arkansas State Senator Linda Collins
Rebecca O'Donnell pleaded guilty Thursday in the death of former Arkansas state Sen. Linda Collins and was sentenced to 50 years in prison. The plea deal includes charges of first-degree murder, abuse of a corpse and two no-contest pleas to solicit murder in Jackson County.
UAMS Releases New Short-Term Forecast, Examines Impact of COVID-19 on Children
The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock released its latest COVID-19 forecast on July 30. Short-term models predict Arkansas will have a total of 55,000 coronavirus cases by Aug. 10. The report includes projections for hospitalizations, the need for intensive care and deaths, as well. It also examines the impact of COVID-19 on children and young adults as students get ready to return to school.
https://www.kuaf.com/post/uams-releases-new-short-term-forecast-examines-impact-covid-19-children
UAMS Releases New Short-Term Forecast, Examines Impact of COVID-19 on Children
The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock released its latest COVID-19 forecast on July 30. Short-term models predict Arkansas will have a total of 55,000 coronavirus cases by Aug. 10. The report includes projections for hospitalizations, the need for intensive care and deaths, as well.
VIDEO: Governor Hutchinson Provides COVID-19 Update Friday (08.07.20) 130PM
Governor Asa Hutchinson provides an update to media on Friday, August 7, 2020, live at 1:30 p.m. regarding Arkansas's COVID-19 response.
Emergency Assistance for Rent/Mortgage/Water Payments Available
Central Arkansas Development Council will begin providing EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE FOR RENT/MORTGAGE PAYMENTS and WATER PAYMENTS effective immediately.
Central Arkansas Development Council (CADC) whose mission is to alleviate the causes and conditions of poverty, to help vulnerable populations achieve their potential, and to build strong communities in Arkansas through community action will begin providing emergency financial assistance to customers affected by the COVID-19 pandemic effective immediately.
These funds are specifically for past due rent/mortgage payments and past due water utility assistance due to financial restraints as it relates to the COVID-19 pandemic. The program will closely follow the requirements for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program. The maximum benefit for Rent/Mortgage assistance is $500 and the maximum benefit for the Water Utility Assistance is $150.
Applicants must reside in one of the nineteen counties in CADC’s service area, meet income guidelines of 125% of poverty, complete the customer intake form, provide a copy of their ID, provide proof of all household income (last 4 check stubs, unemployment, child support, SSI, SSDI, retirement benefits, etc.). If requesting assistance with rent or mortgage applicant must provide lease/mortgage agreement and have occupied the residence for at least six (6) months along with a copy of past due statement and/or letter from the landlord showing past due amount. If requesting assistance with past due water bill applicant must provide a copy of past due water utility bill or payment summaries from utility office showing the delinquent amount.
All statements must have a current date. Applications are being taken by appointment only at the local CADC office in each of the 19 counties CADC serves. Locations are listed in the following table:
County City Address Telephone
Hempstead Hope 200 South Elm Street, Suite 2 870-724-5080
Howard Nashville 103 West Shepherd Street 870-455-0203
Little River Texarkana 4415 Jefferson Avenue, Suite B 870-330-4965
Pike Mt. Ida 156 Senior Drive 870-867-0151
Sevier Texarkana 4415 Jefferson Avenue, Suite B 870-330-4965
Sevier County 2020 Census Contest
We hope by now, you have seen that we have launched a Sevier County 2020 Census Contest where we are giving away 2 FREE iPads!
What do you need to do, by August 31 to qualify for the contest?
complete your census report - 2020census.gov (easiest on your phone)
screenshot your confirmation page
mark out your address
post your confirmation page with the marked out address in the comments on the FB post announcing the contest. English | Espanol | Marshallese
It's that simple - 9 questions. 4 minutes.
And, we need you. Not only is it the law to complete your census, but our community depends on you for important funding for essential departments like schools, roads, community assets. August began the door to door information collection phase, meaning census tackers will be in our community collecting information from those who have not completed their census. To avoid unwanted porch guests, complete your census today!
Continue to follow Sevier County Economic Development and De Queen/Sevier Chamber of Commerce for updates and more information throughout the rest of the month.
Other links and information you may find helpful.
FAQ for popular questions - https://2020census.gov/en/help.html
Census takers in your neighborhood - https://2020census.gov/en/census-takers.html
Required by law to report - https://2020census.gov/en/am-i-required.html
Our community is counting on you!
This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed, administered by, or associated with Facebook. Participation by each individual indicates a complete release of Facebook. Participation also waives Sevier County Economic Development, the De Queen/Sevier County Chamber of Commerce, the City of De Queen, the Sevier County Quorum Court, and UA Cossatot of any liability.
English
By law, the Census Bureau cannot release any identifiable information about you, your home, or your business, even to law enforcement agencies. That's protected under Title 13 of the U.S. Code.
31st Annual Tri-Lakes Big Bass Festival September 5th
Final Registration Week at UA Cossatot
We are 11 days away from the first day of the fall semester! From August 10 - August 18 come see UA Cossatot Student Services or visit with your advisor to get enrolled and get a FREE t shirt and be entered to win a laptop. All campuses will be open Monday - Friday from 8:00 am - 4:30 pm beginning on August 10.
Message from the Howard County Farmers Market:
Hello there Nashville community!
Our next Farmers Market is on Friday, 7 August 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 until vendors sell out. Friday’s forecast is for Isolated thunderstorms in the morning, then mainly cloudy late. High 89F. Winds SE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 30%. Hopefully the rain will hold off for you to get your items!
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 at the market.
Our vendors will be bringing the following to the market:
- Dupree & Myers Farm -
Tomatoes, squash, zucchini bread, facemasks, hand sanitizer
- Green’s Farm -
Baked goods: Peanut butter cookies, tea cakes, plum jelly, jalapeno peppers
- Carolyn's Kitchen -
Delicious baked loaves of bread, cookies and rolls
-Grandma Sylvia’s Creations -
Crocheted hats, gloves, masks and earrings
- Sproles Garden –
Cayenne peppers, squash, Okra
- Wenta Farm -
Hand-picked figs (fresh and frozen), cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, frozen figs, sweet peppers, frozen blackberries, heirloom tomato plants
- Double J Farms –
Honey
- Threat Farms –
Farm fresh eggs
When more vendors contact the market manager we will update our Facebook post. WIC and SNAP Accepted by participating vendors. We thank you for your patronage!
VIDEO: From the Sevier County Hospital Board Meeting Thursday Afternoon
COVID-19 Drive-Thru Testing at UA Cossatot De Queen on August 6
Thursday's COVID-19 Numbers and Maps
COVID-19 Metrics for Sevier County
Cases
Total Positive: 958
Active Positive: 44
Recovered: 904
Deaths: 10
Negatives: 4,455
COVID-19 Metrics for Howard County
Cases
Total Positive: 308
Active Positive: 61
Recovered: 245
Deaths: 2
Negatives: 2,415
COVID-19 Metrics for Little River County
Cases
Total Positive: 160
Active Positive: 70
Recovered: 89
Deaths: 1
Negatives: 1,205
COVID-19 Metrics for Polk County
Cases
Total Positive: 134
Active Positive: 13
Recovered: 120
Deaths: 1
Negatives: 2,189
COVID-19 Metrics for Pike County
Cases
Total Positive: 88
Active Positive: 20
Recovered: 67
Deaths: 1
Negatives: 2,719
VIDEO: CARES Act Steering Committee Meeting Wednesday (08.05.20) 330PM
The CARES Act Steering Committee, created by Governor Asa Hutchinson to recommend the best use of federal COVID-19 aid, met virtually at 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, August 5, 2020.
Governor Hutchinson Appoints Dr. José Romero As Health Secretary
LITTLE ROCK – Governor Asa Hutchinson has appointed Dr. José Romero as Secretary of the Arkansas Department of Health (ADH). Governor Hutchinson announced the appointment today at his COVID-19 briefing.
Dr. Romero, who has been serving as interim secretary of health, replaces Dr. Nate Smith, who has accepted a position at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Dr. Romero previously served as ADH’s chief medical officer. He currently chairs the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), which is providing guidance nationally on the development and administration of a COVID-19 vaccine.
“This was an easy decision,” Governor Hutchinson said. “Dr. Romero has a national reputation for his work with infectious diseases. He has been involved in our fight against COVID-19 from the first day. His vast knowledge of viral infections has been integral to our decision making as we have refined our response to the pandemic. His years of work within the state’s medical community will allow a seamless transition as he assumes this important role.”
Dr. Romero moved to Arkansas in 2008 as Director of the Section of Pediatric Infectious Diseases at UAMS and Arkansas Children’s Hospital. He served as the Director of Clinical Trials Research at Arkansas Children’s Research Institute from 2008-2019.
“I am honored to be named to this important role and look forward to ensuring that the Department of Health fulfills its mission of protecting and improving the health and well-being of all Arkansans,” Dr. Romero said. “I’m excited to work with the governor, the Legislature, our partners at the local, state and federal level, and the people of this state to help Arkansans live healthier lives.”
He has been a member of the Arkansas Vaccine Medical Advisory Committee since 2008 and chair of the committee since 2015. Since 2012, he has been the ADH Pediatric Tuberculosis Physician.
During his time at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, Dr. Romero was Director for Latino Health-Related Research Affairs and Director of the Minority Health Education and Research Office.
Dr. Romero lives in Little Rock with his wife of 12 years and their Scottish Terrier.