Saturday's COVID-19 Maps and Numbers from Arkansas Department of Health

COVID-19 Metrics for Sevier County
Total Cumulative Cases: 1,224
Confirmed Cases: 1,199
Probable Cases: 25
Total Active Cases: 13
Active Confirmed Cases: 5
Active Probable Cases: 8

COVID-19 Metrics for Howard County
Total Cumulative Cases: 514
Confirmed Cases: 483
Probable Cases: 31
Total Active Cases: 21
Active Confirmed Cases: 17
Active Probable Cases: 4

COVID-19 Metrics for Little River County
Total Cumulative Cases: 390
Confirmed Cases: 367
Probable Cases: 23
Total Active Cases: 15
Active Confirmed Cases: 12
Active Probable Cases: 3

COVID-19 Metrics for Polk County
Total Cumulative Cases: 304
Confirmed Cases: 300
Probable Cases: 4
Total Active Cases: 34
Active Confirmed Cases: 31
Active Probable Cases: 3

COVID-19 Metrics for Pike County
Total Cumulative Cases: 246
Confirmed Cases: 241
Probable Cases: 5
Total Active Cases: 19
Active Confirmed Cases: 16
Active Probable Cases: 3

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

In its Friday update, the Arkansas Department of Health reported 1,167 new cases; 7,468 active cases; 560 hospitalized, which is up 13 from Thursday; 101 on ventilators, which is down 2 from Thursday; deaths added today, 27, for a total of 1,530; a total of 91,312 cases; 79,012 recoveries; PCR tests, 12,715; antigen tests, 1,225.

The Health Department reported that the top counties for new cases are Pulaski, 77; Washington, 76; Craighead, 74; Sebastian, 49; and Benton, 47.

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

“Yesterday was another record day of testing with almost 14,000 total tests performed. Our new cases continue to be too high. As we all go about our weekend, let's make sure to wear a mask and keep our distance. We are constantly reminded of how serious this virus is and how easily it can spread.”

Here are today's COVID-19 statewide numbers:

Grant Goes To Arkansas Researcher Studying COVID-19 Transmission In Restaurants

A new grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture will go towards an Arkansas research project looking into ways to curb the spread of COVID-19 in restaurant settings.

Food scientist Dr. Kristen Gibson with the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture will lead the multi-institution research project, with help from the $987,000 grant from the USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture.

https://www.ualrpublicradio.org/post/grant-goes-arkansas-researcher-studying-covid-19-transmission-restaurants

Grant Goes To Arkansas Researcher Studying COVID-19 Transmission In Restaurants

A new grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture will go towards an Arkansas research project looking into ways to curb the spread of COVID-19 in restaurant settings. Food scientist Dr. Kristen Gibson with the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture will lead the multi-institution research project, with help from the $987,000 grant from the USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture.

Arkansas Solicitor General Defends Pharmacy Law Before U.S. Supreme Court

A law regulating reimbursements by pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) should stand because it doesn’t regulate benefits or plan administration, Arkansas Solicitor General Nicholas Bronni argued before the U.S. Supreme Court on Tuesday.

The attorney representing PBMs, however, argued the law is preempted by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, a federal law otherwise known as ERISA.

https://www.ualrpublicradio.org/post/arkansas-solicitor-general-defends-pharmacy-law-us-supreme-court

Arkansas Solicitor General Defends Pharmacy Law Before U.S. Supreme Court

A law regulating reimbursements by pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) should stand because it doesn't regulate benefits or plan administration, Arkansas Solicitor General Nicholas Bronni argued before the U.S. Supreme Court on Tuesday. The attorney representing PBMs, however, argued the law is preempted by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, a federal law otherwise known as ERISA.

UA Cossatot Chancellor Dr. Steve Cole has a College Grant Update

Dr. Steve Cole, Chancellor at UA Cossatot talked with Ed 88 about a number of grants the college was recently awarded, including one that totals $2.2 million.

In Observance of Hispanic Heritage Month

The Center for Student Success would like to continue to recognize some of our UA Cossatot Hispanic employees that are making an impact on our students throughout the month of October!

Hector Cortez

Hector Cortez is one of three campus police and resides in Nashville, AR. His family originates from Jalisco, Mexico. Hector’s mom is from a town named Tamazula and his dad is from a town called Tototlan.  They grew up about 3 ½ hours away from each other, but met in Los Angeles, CA in the mid 70’s.  Hector is not only a proud father but also a loving husband.  He is a current college student working towards obtaining an Associate’s degree and is a prime example of what it means to be dedicated.   Hector is also a key component in helping provide food assistance to students on Nashville campus and was also huge asset in helping provide commodities to the De Queen community area benefiting 300+ families. Hector states, “Being Hispanic means having a heritage that is bold and full of life. From family traditions to food, it is always colorful and full of fun.  I plan on earning my Associates Degree here at Cossatot in the next couple of semesters and not long after, earning my Bachelor’s Degree. 

We are proud to have Hector Cortez as part of our campus community! 

If you or someone has questions in regards to campus security you can call and ask for Hector Cortez at: 870-584-4471. 

CARES Act Steering Committee Meeting Wednesday (10.07.20) 330PM

The CARES Act Steering Committee, created by Governor Asa Hutchinson to recommend the best use of federal COVID-19 aid, meets virtually at 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, October 7, 2020.

Thursday COVID-19 Update

COVID-19 Metrics for Sevier County
Total Cumulative Cases: 1,218
Confirmed Cases: 1,198
Probable Cases: 20
Total Active Cases: 11
Active Confirmed Cases: 5
Active Probable Cases: 6

COVID-19 Metrics for Howard County
Total Cumulative Cases: 503
Confirmed Cases: 476
Probable Cases: 27
Total Active Cases: 19
Active Confirmed Cases: 15
Active Probable Cases: 4

COVID-19 Metrics for Little River County
Total Cumulative Cases: 375
Confirmed Cases: 355
Probable Cases: 20
Total Active Cases: 12
Active Confirmed Cases: 11
Active Probable Cases: 1

COVID-19 Metrics for Polk County
Total Cumulative Cases: 297
Confirmed Cases: 294
Probable Cases: 3
Total Active Cases: 29
Active Confirmed Cases: 27
Active Probable Cases: 2

COVID-19 Metrics for Pike County
Total Cumulative Cases: 240
Confirmed Cases: 236
Probable Cases: 4
Total Active Cases: 13
Active Confirmed Cases: 11
Active Probable Cases: 2

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

In its Wednesday update, the Arkansas Department of Health reported 809 new cases; 6,686 active cases; 538 hospitalized, which is up 9 from Tuesday; 98 on ventilators, which is down 1 from Tuesday; deaths added today, 13, for a total of 1,482; a total of 88,880 cases; 77,660 recoveries; PCR tests, 8,975; antigen tests, 1,110.

The Health Department reported that the top counties for new cases are Craighead, 60; Pulaski, 57; Jefferson, 44; Washington, 26; and Sebastian, 23.

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

“There seems to be a pattern of increased cases toward the latter part of the week as so many go in for testing after a weekend. If the trend holds, cases may go up again toward the end of the week and then decline from there. Regardless, we are hoping to keep the peak this week lower than last week. Everyone do your part.”

Here are today's COVID-19 statewide numbers:

Arkansas State Forester Selected to Lead National Forestry Association

Arkansas State Forester Joe Fox was elected in late September to serve as president of the National Association of State Foresters. Fox says wise forest management and safe wildland fire operations are top priorities while building collaboration and communication within the nation's forestry community. 

https://www.kuaf.com/post/arkansas-state-forester-selected-lead-national-forestry-association

Arkansas State Forester Selected to Lead National Forestry Association

Arkansas State Forester Joe Fox was elected in late September to serve as president of the National Association of State Foresters . Fox says wise forest

CADC Food Box Distribution at UA Cossatot De Queen Tuesday

CADC provided food commodities on the De Queen campus of UA Cossatot on Tuesday

CADC and the Center for Student Success partnered to help provide food commodities on the UA Cossatot De Queen Campus to 300+ families of the area… it was a campus/community wide event AND WE DID IT! Between the help of campus police, Cossatot Staff, Basketball, YOUTHBUILD, Rotaract, SDA and Student Ambassadors, we were able to help serve and provide food to 300+ families.  We’re so proud of all our volunteers and want to say “THANK YOU ONCE AGAIN” for what you did for our students AND our community.  This was definitely a great way to give back and actually be part of the change! If you see any of these people/students on campus let them know how proud we all are!

Tuesday's COVID-19 Update from the AR Dept of Health

COVID-19 Metrics for Sevier County
Total Cumulative Cases: 1,214
Confirmed Cases: 1,197
Probable Cases: 17
Total Active Cases: 10
Active Confirmed Cases: 7
Active Probable Cases: 3

COVID-19 Metrics for Howard County
Total Cumulative Cases: 503
Confirmed Cases: 476
Probable Cases: 27
Total Active Cases: 21
Active Confirmed Cases: 16
Active Probable Cases: 5

COVID-19 Metrics for Little River County
Total Cumulative Cases: 373
Confirmed Cases: 354
Probable Cases: 19
Total Active Cases: 14
Active Confirmed Cases: 13
Active Probable Cases: 1

COVID-19 Metrics for Polk County
Total Cumulative Cases: 281
Confirmed Cases: 279
Probable Cases: 2
Total Active Cases: 22
Active Confirmed Cases: 21
Active Probable Cases: 1

COVID-19 Metrics for Pike County
Total Cumulative Cases: 237
Confirmed Cases: 233
Probable Cases: 4
Total Active Cases: 12
Active Confirmed Cases: 10
Active Probable Cases: 2

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

In its Monday update, the Arkansas Department of Health reported 417 new cases; 6,922 active cases; 524 hospitalized, which is up 15 from Sunday; 93 on ventilators, which is up 4 from Sunday; deaths added today, 22, for a total of 1,447; a total of 87,430 cases; 76,204 recoveries; PCR tests, 6,305; antigen tests, 845.

The Health Department reported that the top counties for new cases are Pulaski, 58; Washington, 34; Sebastian, 28; Craighead, 23; Benton, 15; Crawford, 15; and Faulkner, 15.

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

“Today we are reminded that more cases lead to increased hospitalizations. The number of hospitalized is too high. While it is manageable, it's important to slow the spread of this virus to keep people out of the hospital because of COVID-19.”

Here are today's COVID-19 statewide numbers:

Governor Hutchinson Orders Flags to Fly at Half-Staff in Memory of Officer Kevin Collins

LITTLE ROCK  – Governor Asa Hutchinson has ordered the United States flag and the flag of the State of Arkansas to be lowered to half-staff in tribute to the memory of Officer Kevin Collins of the Pine Bluff Police Department, who was killed in the line of duty on Monday, October 5, 2020. The flag shall be lowered immediately and remain at half-staff to the day of interment. 

The full proclamation can be found HERE.

Governor Hutchinson released a statement on the passing of Officer Collins:

“I was deeply saddened to learn that Officer Kevin Collins was shot and killed in the line of duty yesterday. Officer Collins spent his 5-year career at the Pine Bluff Police Department protecting and serving his community. He selflessly put his life on the line each day in the violent crimes unit and paid the ultimate price for the safety of others. We are forever grateful for his service and the dedication of our entire law enforcement community. Our prayers remain with Officer Collins’ family, the Pine Bluff Police Department, and for the full recovery of Lt. Ralph Isaac.”

Bearden First Daisy Award Recipient at Howard Memorial Hospital

Svetlana Bearden, RN was the first Daisy Award recipient at Howard Memorial Hospital

UA Cossatot Students Excel with Internship Opportunities at Tyson Foods

Howard Memorial Hospital Honors Ken Young for His Service on the Board

Ken Young served on the Howard Memorial Hospital Board from July 2014 through July 2020.   Due to COVID and not having in-person meetings, it was difficult to present him with this plaque. Finally, Debra, Bill and Alesha were able to present this plaque to Ken for our appreciation of his loyal and dedicated service to Howard Memorial Hospital.

UAMS Drive-Thru Clinic Safely Accommodates Patients During Pandemic

University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Northwest in Fayetteville is operating a drive-thru clinic for patients seeking medical exams, but are too wary of entering a medical facility during the pandemic. Dr. Hunter Judkins, medical director of the Family Medicine Residency Program, initiated the novel extension clinic.

https://www.kuaf.com/post/uams-drive-thru-clinic-safely-accommodates-patients-during-pandemic

UAMS Drive-Thru Clinic Safely Accommodates Patients During Pandemic

University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Northwest in Fayetteville is operating a drive-thru clinic for patients seeking medical exams, but are too wary of entering a medical facility during the pandemic. Dr. Hunter Judkins, medical director of the Family Medicine Residency Program, initiated the novel extension clinic.

Notice from Sevier County Clerk about Campaign Signage

Just a reminder that all campaign type material must be at least one hundred feet away from the entrance to the polling place. This includes bumper stickers on vehicles. Also remind voters not to wear campaign T-shirts, caps or buttons when going to vote. If they do they will be asked to remedy the situation before voting.

Thanks

Debbie Akin

Sevier County Clerk

115 N. 3rd St.

Room 102

De Queen, AR 71832

870-642-2852

Emergency Food Boxes Offered at UA Cossatot in De Queen Tuesday

CADC will be providing food commodities on the De Queen campus of UA Cossatot on Tuesday, 10/06, from 10-2PM and we are asking that NO ONE park in the ERC parking lot from 7:00am to 2pm.  If you would like to benefit you must line up and remain in your vehicle at all times.   We plan on serving 300+ boxes/families.  Some items include milk, meat and canned goods. 

Weekly Update from State Representative DeAnn Vaught

For every dollar of general revenue coming into the state, 41% is spent on K-12 public schools. Approximately, half of all school district revenues come from the state. Our current process of determining the amount of state funding for our schools goes back to 2003. The Public School Funding Act of 2003 develops per-pupil funding amounts by assigning costs to various educational inputs.

Those inputs range from staff salaries to transportation needs. They are then compiled into a school district funding matrix used to produce a per-pupil foundation funding amount along with additional funding for programs for students with special needs, alternative learning environments, and professional development for instructional staff.

But the landscape of education has changed since 2003. That is why late last year, the House and Senate Education Committee agreed to hire

a consulting firm, Augenblick, Palaich and Associates, to take an in-depth look at our K-12 education and make recommendations to our current model of funding. The firm’s study has sought input from education officials around the state and reviewed academic research.

This week, the firm presented the committee with information showing the average counselor staffing ratio in Arkansas is 385:1, which is lower than the average for states in the southern region. However, the American School Counselor Association and the National Association of School Psychologist's recommended ratio is 250:1.

The consultants have also presented committee members with information on the effects of poverty on learning. Research shows academic performance correlates negatively with concentrations of poverty in schools. Higher concentrations of poverty seem to impact all students in a school, not only poor students. Some research suggests school effects could start at concentrations between 25% and 50%. The committee was presented with information on the possible strategies for improvement such as wrap around services and expanded learning programs.

Committee members are reviewing this information and previous presentations covering everything from college readiness to enrollment changes. Over the next few weeks, they will be using this information to make recommendations for the 2021 Regular Session. They will present their recommendations to House and Senate leadership by November 1.

You can watch all House and Senate Education Committee meetings and review the reports at www.arkansashouse.org.

Home - Arkansas House of Representatives

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Monday COVID-19 Case Numbers and Maps

COVID-19 Metrics for Sevier County
Total Cumulative Cases: 1,213
Confirmed Cases: 1,197
Probable Cases: 16
Total Active Cases: 10
Active Confirmed Cases: 7
Active Probable Cases: 3

COVID-19 Metrics for Howard County
Total Cumulative Cases: 503
Confirmed Cases: 476
Probable Cases: 27
Total Active Cases: 21
Active Confirmed Cases: 16
Active Probable Cases: 5

COVID-19 Metrics for Little River County
Total Cumulative Cases: 373
Confirmed Cases: 354
Probable Cases: 19
Total Active Cases: 16
Active Confirmed Cases: 15
Active Probable Cases: 1

COVID-19 Metrics for Polk County
Total Cumulative Cases: 280
Confirmed Cases: 278
Probable Cases: 2
Total Active Cases: 22
Active Confirmed Cases: 21
Active Probable Cases: 1

COVID-19 Metrics for Pike County
Total Cumulative Cases: 237
Confirmed Cases: 233
Probable Cases: 4
Total Active Cases: 12
Active Confirmed Cases: 10
Active Probable Cases: 2

There are now 1,425 reported deaths, 1,278 confirmed and 147 probable, due to COVID-19, according to the Arkansas Department of Health, up from 1,407 Saturday.

The department reported 83,306 confirmed cases of the virus and another 3,707 probable cases Sunday, compared to 82,851 confirmed and 3,674 probable cases a day earlier. There are 1,424 active, according to health officials.

VIDEO: Governor Hutchinson Provides COVID-19 Update Tuesday(10.06.20) 130PM

Governor Asa Hutchinson provides an update to media on Tuesday, October 6, 2020, live at 1:30 p.m. regarding Arkansas’s COVID-19 response.