News

News for Friday, February 21, 2025

Berryville Chamber to hostSecond Saturdays on the Square
BERRYVILLE - Starting March 8 at 2 p.m., the Berryville Chamber of Commerce will begin bringing the community together every Second Saturday through November (with June featuring the Ice Cream Social and December celebrating Christmas on the Square).
Enjoy a fun-filled afternoon with local vendors, live music, games, and sidewalk sales from downtown shops. This Second Saturday will feature vendors, music, a grand reopening of the Carroll County Historical and Genealogical Society and more.
Community organizations are welcome to set up booths for free to share information or host activities. If interested please contact Julia Borkowski for more information 479-418-9858 or email JBorkowski@CarrollCoNews.com
Mark your calendars and come be part of the fun!
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Gov. Sanders signs school cellphone ban,free breakfast bills into law on Thursday
As Arkansas’ 2025 legislative session reaches its midpoint, some of Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders’ policy priorities have become law, while others await debate.
On Thursday, Sanders signed three bills into law, all of which passed with bipartisan support:
Act 122: Requires Arkansas school districts to ban students from using cellphones and personal electronic devices during the school day.
Act 123: Expands access to free breakfast for all Arkansas students, regardless of their eligibility for the federal free or reduced-price meal program, starting in the 2025-2026 school year.
Act 124 – The Healthy Moms, Healthy Babies Act: Modifies Arkansas’ Medicaid program by:-Establishing presumptive Medicaid eligibility for pregnant Arkansans.
-Providing reimbursements for doulas and community health workers.
-Expanding pregnancy-related Medicaid coverage for specific treatments.
In her Jan. 14 State of the State address, Sanders highlighted the free breakfast program and school phone ban as key legislative goals. At a press conference before signing those bills, she reiterated two additional priorities that lawmakers have yet to address:
-Eliminating the 0.125% state grocery sales tax – No legislation has been filed yet.
-Higher education reform – A proposed omnibus policy, Arkansas ACCESS, was introduced Monday in two identical bills.
The Arkansas ACCESS proposal aims to streamline the state’s higher education system by:
-Creating a universal college application for all Arkansas institutions.-Standardizing course numbering across colleges and universities.-Implementing a direct admissions program to offer provisional college acceptance to students who meet minimum requirements.-Establishing a statewide transfer system that allows credits to transfer seamlessly between universities and two-year institutions in both directions.
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ASP seized over 15,000 pounds ofillegal marijuana, $3.3m in cash in 2024
LITTLE ROCK - Once again, Arkansas State Police (ASP) saw a significant increase in illegal drug seizures during traffic stops compared to the previous year, due in large part to ASP’s Interstate Criminal Patrol (ICP), which specializes in drug interdiction.
Illegal marijuana seizures increased by approximately 50%, with more than 15,000 pounds confiscated in 2024, compared to just over 10,000 pounds in 2023. Cash seizures more than doubled, from $1.4 million in 2023 to $3.3 million in 2024. Methamphetamine seizures increased significantly from 56 pounds in 2023 to 509 pounds in 2024.
Cocaine seizures decreased from 353 pounds in 2023 to 254 pounds in 2024. Fentanyl seizures also decreased from 46 pounds to 6.9 pounds, comparing year-to-year data.
ICP confiscated 44 weapons in 2024, up from 21 in 2023.
Additional seizures in 2024 included:• 89 pounds of THC wax• 13,000 illegal prescription pills• 105 pounds of Psilocybin mushrooms• 201 bottles of Promethazine• 3,719 THC vapes• 20 vehicles
Also during 2024, ASP K9 teams had 187 deployments, resulting in the detection of:• 4,915 pounds of illegal marijuana• Over 17 pounds of cocaine• 150 pounds of methamphetamine• 914 pounds of other illegal narcotics• $1.2 million in cash
“The dedication of the ASP’s ICP exemplifies a commitment to bolstering public safety and battling the influx of illegal drugs being trafficked throughout the state,” said ASP Director Colonel Mike Hagar. “We are delivering a powerful and unmistakable warning to anyone transporting illicit narcotics along our interstates and highways – We will catch you, and you will face the consequences.”
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Tax Time: Extension offers tips for filing, saving
 With Tax Day just a few weeks away, the countdown is on to prepare and submit tax returns for 2024.
Tax filing season officially began Jan. 27 when the IRS began accepting paper and electronic tax returns. The agency said it expects more than 140 million individual tax returns to be filed by April 15.
Laura Hendrix, associate professor and extension personal finance expert for the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, offers some tips and resources for filers looking to save money and make good use of their tax refunds.
Get organizedTax filers need several documents, such as reports of income received in 2024, and information for tax credits, deductions and itemization.
“Keep the documents and tax forms you need to file your taxes in one place,” Hendrix said. “This way, you can prepare an accurate return, claim deductions or credits, and avoid errors that could delay your refund.”
Lists of items and forms required can be found on the IRS website: https://www.irs.gov
Use direct deposit — Have your refund deposited directly into your bank account by using IRS Form 8888.
File for freeThe IRS expects more than half of tax returns be filed this year with the help of tax professionals, but many people may save money by using one of several free tax preparation options:
IRS Free File — The IRS partners with several tax preparation companies for Free File. It’s available to anyone with an adjustable gross income of $84,000 or less. Adjusted gross income is total income minus deductions. To learn more and see the list of tax prep companies, visit the IRS website at https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free
MyFreeTaxes helps people file their taxes for free full tax preparation for income $67,000 or less and free self-filing service for income of $84,000 or less. United Way provides MyFreeTaxes in partnership with the IRS’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program, known as VITA, to help filers prepare their tax returns on their own or have their return prepared for them for free. https://myfreetaxes.com/
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance and Tax Counseling for the Elderly sites do free tax preparation for people who qualify. For locations, visit https://irs.treasury.gov/freetaxprep/
AARP Tax Aid provides free assistance at several in-person locations in Arkansas and online for filers with adjusted gross income of $84,000 or less. https://secure.aarp.org/applications/VMISLocator/searchTaxAideLocations.action
MilTax — Service members and their families, including retired and National Guard can file for free with MilTax. https://www.militaryonesource.mil/financial-legal/taxes/miltax-military-tax-services
 Get tax creditsEarned Income Tax Credit — This is a refundable credit (money sent to you after taxes). If you worked or were self-employed and earned less than $66,819, you can receive the Earned Income Tax Credit by filing a tax return.
Child Tax Credit and Additional Child Tax Credit  – These tax credits are for filers with qualifying dependents. The Child Tax Credit is applied to the tax bill; the Additional Child Tax Credit is refundable. Children must be under age 17 and must have lived with you for more than half the year. The Child Tax Credit is worth a maximum of $2,000 per qualifying child. Up to $1,700 is refundable.If you have income below the standard deduction threshold, you may not be required to file a return. However, you may want to file anyway so you can receive refundable tax credits.
IRS Tax Assistant is an online tool and calculator that can help filers determine qualifications and estimate amounts. https://www.irs.gov/help/ita
Take deductionsA deduction is an amount you subtract from your income when you file so you don’t pay tax on it. Tax filers either take the standard deduction or they itemize deductions.
“Most people take the standard deduction, which lets you subtract a set amount from your income based on your filing status,” Hendrix said. “If your deductible expenses and losses are more than the standard deduction, you can save money by itemizing, or deducting them one-by-one from your income. Tax software can walk you through your expenses and losses to show the option that gives you the lowest tax.”
The standard deductions for 2024 are $14,600 for single or married filing separately; $29,200 for married couples filing jointly or qualifying surviving spouse; and $21,900 for head of household.
“If you’re married filing separately, you can’t take the standard deduction if your spouse itemizes,” Hendrix said. “You must both choose the same method.”
Save moneyAfter taxes are filed, Hendrix urges people to think ahead of how they can best use tax refund money.
"This windfall money comes around only once a year, so take time to think about how you can make the most of your tax refund,” Hendrix said. She recommends putting at least part of the refund into savings because “it’s easier to save money you’ve never seen or had in your hands.”

News for Thursday, February 20, 2025

CS Bank donates $5,000 toES Community Center Foundation
Submitted by CS Bank
EUREKA SPRINGS - Charlie Cross, CEO, CS Bank, recently announced the local bank’s $5,000, charitable donation to the Eureka Springs Community Center Foundation.
The Community Center Campus encompasses the rich history of Eureka Springs, while charting a sustainable course for the future. It supports local food sourcing, stimulates trail development, provides a community gathering place, and promotes healthy lifestyles.
The Community Center is guided by The Eureka Springs Community Center Foundation, a 501c3 organization, that was transformed into a vibrant facility that engages youth, families, and seniors. Their work to energize community spirit and provide focused activities for people of all ages is directly funded by charitable donations.
Cross stated, “Our bank is pleased to be afforded the opportunity to support the ongoing efforts of the Eureka Springs Community Center with this financial contribution, as they provide a hub of activity for many in our populace. It is endeavors such as this that enrich the lives of our local citizenry and our bank is proud to play a small role in the continued development and enhancement of this wonderful asset to the City of Eureka Springs, which has been the home of our company and its associates for the past 113 years.”
Anna Smedley, Ph.D. The director of the Eureka Springs Community Center Foundation stated, “We are so grateful to CS Bank for their ongoing partnership in building and growing the Community Center. And we are thrilled to have their support in this next phase, as we work to grow our resources for our members and guests, ensuring that we can continue to improve the quality of life in our community.”
CS Bank, a 610-million-dollar financial institution, continues to serve as the only local community bank in Eureka Springs and has been growing and expanding rapidly during the past several years.
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4A-1 Conference district tournament postponed
HUNTSVILLE - Due to persistent hazardous weather conditions across the listening area, officials with the 4A-1 Conference have decided to postpone the District Tournament until Friday or Saturday. The decision is expected to be finalized today as officials continue to monitor road conditions and school closings.
The second round of games will be played either Friday or Saturday in Huntsville. At the completion of second round games, the four remaining teams for boys and girls will be seeded for the Regional Tournament based on their finish in the regular season. There will be no semi-finals or finals.
Conference officials said the safety of students, coaches and fans are the top priority and led to this agreement.
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Boone County Extension to hostPrecision Ag Technology Field Day
HARRISON - Anyone interested in learning more about the latest technological enhancements in agriculture is invited to the Precision Ag Technology Field Day hosted by the Boone County Extension Office next week.
The event will take place Feb. 28 at the JPH Center at North Arkansas College, located at 1515 Pioneer Drive in Harrison. Registration kicks off at 12:45 ahead of the main program. Organizers say this event will be a field day on the latest precision agricultural technology, including drone and GPS systems.
Partnering industries include Acudrone Solutions and Field Fly Drone Applications.
For more information and to register in advance, call the Boone County Extension Office at (870) 741-6168.
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Registration opens Feb. 24 forspring edition of Walk Across Arkansas
BERRYVILLE - For Arkansans looking to achieve their fitness goals or develop new healthy habits this spring, Walk Across Arkansas offers an eight-week, group-based exercise program that helps get people moving.
The free program is offered each spring and fall by the Cooperative Extension Service, the outreach arm of the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture. Participants can sign up in teams of up to 30 people, and they log their total number of minutes spent being physically active each day.
“We encourage participants to get creative with the types of exercise they engaged in, not just walking,” said Heather Wingo, extension health program associate for the Division of Agriculture. “If you’ve been curious about yoga, strength training, or taking a Zumba class, this is a great time to try that out. Any moderate to vigorous physical activity counts, as long as you get your heart rate up.”
Individuals can participate in the program alone, but Wingo encourages Arkansans to participate alongside their peers.
“This program is free and encourages friendly competition between groups of friends, family members, co-workers or church members,” she said. “Anyone who wants to work together towards their physical activity goals would benefit from Walk Across Arkansas.”
Registration for the spring 2025 session opens Feb. 24. Participants can register and log exercise minutes at walk.uada.edu/walk/. The competition starts March 10 and ends May 4.
Health benefits
During the fall 2024 Walk Across Arkansas session, 160 teams of 1,757 individuals from 39 counties reported more than 1.9 million minutes of physical activity.
Wingo said past participants have reported that through Walk Across Arkansas, they had more energy, slept better, strengthened their relationships and lost weight or inches. They also reported lower stress levels and improved their blood pressure and blood panels.
Anyone can participate in Walk Across Arkansas. Division of Agriculture employees must use a personal email address, not their work email address, to register. Visit walk.uada.edu/walk/ to learn more and register or contact the Carroll County Extension Office by calling (870) 423-2958.
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Corporate Transparency Act is back,with new March 21 filing deadline
The Corporate Transparency Act, a law aimed at combating financial crime, is back in play with a new filing deadline after a federal district judge lifted a stay he imposed last month.
“Since the stay has been lifted, the CTA is again enforceable,” said Elizabeth Rumley, a senior staff attorney at the National Agricultural Law Center. The law is enforced by FinCEN, the federal Financial Crimes Enforcement Network, part of the U.S. Treasury Department. “FinCEN has set a new deadline of March 21 for the majority of reporting companies.”  
On Monday, Judge Jeremy Kernodle of the Eastern District of Texas lifted the stay he put in place Jan. 7.
The Corporate Transparency Act  is a federal law aimed at combating financial crimes such as money laundering and tax evasion. Under the CTA, most corporations, limited liability companies and similar entities are required to disclose their “beneficial owners”—individuals who own or control at least 25 percent of the business or exercise significant decision-making authority, Rumley said.
Congressional actionWhile the case wends its way through the courts, the U.S. House and Senate are also looking at CTA and have put forth several bills to modify the deadlines or eliminate CTA altogether.
On Feb. 10, the U.S. House unanimously passed H.R. 736, which would extending CTA’s filing deadline until Jan. 1, 2026. The proposal has moved to the Senate for consideration. The Senate is also considering S. 505, which would also modify the deadline for filing beneficial ownership information reports for reporting companies formed or registered before Jan. 1, 2024.
These House and Senate bills would postpone the deadline but leave the reporting requirements intact.
Other legislation, introduced as H.R. 125 and S. 100, the “Repealing Big Brother Overreach Act,” would repeal the CTA entirely. The bills are under committee consideration in their respective chambers.
FinCEN has also said it “intends to initiate a process this year to revise the BOI reporting rule to reduce burden for lower-risk entities, including many U.S. small businesses.”
Changes could be made based on further developments as the law progresses through the courts, or changes in the regulations or guidance or even further Congressional action.  
“Because of that, it is important to stay aware of future developments,” Rumley said.

News for Tuesday, February 18, 2025

Governor declares emergencyin response to winter storm
LITTLE ROCK - Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders declared a State of Emergency on Monday ahead of a winter storm battering the region today.
The declaration authorizes emergency response vehicles to bypass Arkansas Department of Transportation weigh station facilities to respond to storms and related damage through February 24.
In the order, Sanders said the winter storm threatened to cause "dangers, hardships and suffering throughout the state."
Carroll, Madison, Washington and Benton Counties remain under a Winter Storm Warning at this time. That warning will remain in effect through 3 a.m.
Berryville, Blue Eye, Alpena, Green Forest and Eureka Springs School Districts all announced closures today. All Carroll County offices, libraries and courthouses are closed today. Tonight's meeting of the Carroll County Quorum Court has been delayed. The City of Berryville's non-emergency offices are also closed today.
Between four and 12 inches of snow are expected as part of this system, along with a mixture of sleet and freezing rain. Ice accumulations could range from a light glaze to a tenth of an inch. Gusty north winds will cause areas of blowing snow and some drifting of snow. Near blizzard conditions are possible in parts of the region.
Roads, and especially bridges and overpasses, will likely become slick and hazardous. Whiteout conditions are expected and will make travel treacherous and potentially life-threatening. Travel could be very difficult.Areas of blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility. The hazardous conditions could impact the Tuesday morning commute and will impact the Tuesday evening commute.
In addition, according to the Extreme Cold Warning, dangerously cold wind chills as low as -17 are expected between Tuesday and Wednesday night. Those temperatures can quickly lead to hypothermia or frostbite if precautions are not taken. Check on older family, friends, and neighbors. Ensure portable heaters are used correctly. Do not use generators or grills inside.
If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency. In Arkansas, for the latest road conditions call 1-800-245-1672 or go to idrivearkansas.com. In Oklahoma, for the latest road conditions call 1-844-465-4997 or go to okRoads.org.
Wednesday's high is just 16 degrees with a low of negative four that night - before the wind chill is factored. Thursday's high is 18. Temperatures will remain below freezing through Friday before the mercury finally goes back above the freezing point on Saturday.
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Hindsville man arrested after pointing gunat linemen, barricading himself in home
MADISON COUNTY - A Hindsville man is facing felony assault charges after allegedly threatening linemen and then barricading himself inside a home during a brief standoff with police.
According to information from the Madison County Sheriff's Office, on Feb. 14 deputies were dispatched to a report of an assault at a residence in Hindsville. The incident reportedly began when a male resident contacted the local power company to report an electrical issue. The request prompted a service crew to be dispatched to the property.
Upon their arrival, the crew found no issues at the power pole and attempted unsuccessfully to call the account holder.
Undeterred, the crew proceeded to the front door to make direct contact with the occupant. A man answered the door and allegedly pointed a firearm at the crew members before firing a single shot as they left the premises. No one was injured.
Deputies were notified of the incident and arrived on scene where they identified the suspect as Jason Pettipiece. After initially communicating with the deputies through a closed door, Pettipiece then reportedly retreated into the home and barricaded himself inside.
Following a brief negotiation, Pettipiece emerged from the home and was taken into custody. He has been charged with two counts of aggravated assault.
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AGFC accepting applicationsfor 2025 summer internships
By Verity Callahan
College students looking for hands-on experience in conservation have until March 15 to submit an application for a summer internship with the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.
As a former intern, part of the challenge and joy of spending a summer with AGFC was seeing how conservation and preservation efforts were generated from a variety of people with a variety of skills. It is rewarding not only to see the progress that is made in such a short amount of time, but to have a part in that success.
Internships are available for a broad range of academic majors, including forestry, wildlife management, fisheries management, environmental interpretation, environmental science, biological research and law enforcement.
Each of these part-time positions offers special opportunities and training to give students insight into the conservation field. For many, this is the chance to explore what research in a hatchery or lab for the agency looks like day-to-day.
Lauren Cannon, facility manager for Ponca Nature Center and post-secondary outreach coordinator, highlighted how these experiences can shape a student’s career path.
”Internships provide a clear vision of what the student wants out of their future by offering hands-on experience and exposure to various roles within the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission,” Cannon said. “This allows students to identify areas where they could potentially fit within our agency.
“I wholeheartedly recommend our internship program over others because it strikes a balance between education and enjoyment,” she continued. “While interns gain valuable skills that will undoubtedly benefit them in a future career with AGFC, they also have the opportunity to engage in fun and meaningful experiences.”
Opportunities are available across the state for students in dozens of fields and interests. Internships can be up to 320 hours and pay an established hourly rate of $13 per hour with an approximate 40 hour work-week.
Selected interns must coordinate with their college or university directly to obtain course credit for this internship.
To apply, applicants must:
Have a declared degree in a conservation field;
Have 60 hours of college credits earned by the time the internship begins;
Be a college student, be enrolled in a post-graduate program or must have graduated within the previous 12 months;
Have a 2.5 cumulative grade point average on a 4.0 scale.
Visit www.agfc.com/jobs to view all available positions and for more information on the internship program. Be sure to attach a current resume, one page cover letter and official college transcript to your application.

News for Monday, February 17, 2025

Winter Storm, Extreme Cold Warningsto go into effect Wednesday morning
BERRYVILLE - The listening area just can't get a break from the winter weather.
The National Weather Service issued both a Winter Storm Warning and an Extreme Cold Warning early Monday morning ahead of another winter storm system expected to reach the region on Tuesday.
Both warnings will go into effect at 6 a.m. Tuesday morning and will remain in effect through Wednesday. Impacted areas include Carroll, Madison, Washington and Benton Counties in Arkansas as well as most of northeast Oklahoma.
According to the National Weather Service, heavy mixed precipitation is expected with total snow and sleet accumulations of between four and 10 inches expected. Ice accumulations up to one tenth of an inch are also likely.
Chances for snow/sleet, along with areas of blowing snow, range from 60-90 percent. Those chances go up to 100 percent Tuesday night before the system passes through early Wednesday morning.
In addition, according to the Extreme Cold Warning, dangerously cold wind chills as low as -17 are expected between Tuesday and Wednesday night. Those temperatures can quickly lead to hypothermia or frostbite if precautions are not taken. Check on older family, friends, and neighbors. Ensure portable heaters are used correctly. Do not use generators or grills inside.
Travel could be very difficult and hazardous conditions could impact the Tuesday morning and evening commutes.
If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency. In Arkansas, for the latest road conditions call 1-800-245-1672 or go to idrivearkansas.com. In Oklahoma, for the latest road conditions call 1-844-465-4997 or go to okRoads.org.
Wednesday's high is just 16 degrees with a low of negative four that night - before the wind chill is factored. Thursday's high is 18. Temperatures will remain below freezing through Friday before the mercury finally goes back above the freezing point on Saturday.
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City of Berryville receives $745kDOE grant to convert waste into duel
BERRYVILLE - The U.S. Department of Energy has devoted a $745,932 grant to help the city of Berryville complete a sustainable molecular recycling facility.
The goal is to turn waste into fuels like renewable natural gas, methanol and hydrogen.
The grant will help the city use advanced recycling and fuel conversion technologies to overcome landfill constraints for municipal solid waste. SyntexNRG, a subsidiary of Syntex Industries, is partnering in the project.
Organic waste like food, wastewater sludge, solid waste and manure are a longstanding and costly problem for municipalities. They contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and environmental pollution, according to a city bulletin announcing the grant.
The project looks to the EcoVista Landfill in Tontitown as a model. That project uses processes of pelletization, pyrolysis and synthesis to convert waste into energy-efficient products, decreasing landfill use.
Berryville Mayor Tim McKinney called the grant an opportunity to “reimagine waste management” in northwest Arkansas. “Through Project SMRF and the expertise of Syntex and our other partners, we plan to develop a sustainable waste-to-energy model that benefits our community, reduces landfill dependence, and contributes to a cleaner environment,” McKinney said in a statement.
Tom Waggoner, managing director of SyntexNRG, said that the project differs from others that incinerate waste to generate electricity. It will instead convert “various waste streams into materials that can be recycled at the molecular level,” Waggoner said.
The Berryville project will assess infrastructure to improve the separation of municipal solid waste and processes of turning it into fuel.
According to Chris Claybaker, Berryville’s director of development, the project’s objectives are fourfold. It will reduce landfill pressure, produce renewable fuel for community vehicles and sale, establish a community environmental and education center, and leverage public-private partnerships.
Those partnerships will work to attract additional investment in waste-to-energy technologies.
Berryville is a federally designated Opportunity Zone and home to the Carroll County Solid Waste District. Syntex will join with other partners including the University of Arkansas, Enviroscapes Ecological Consulting, and Via Analytics. Together, they will study the feasibility of using community “virtual landfills” to convert waste into usable products.
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Auditor’s Office lauds bill to sendautomatic unclaimed property checks
LITTLE ROCK - Auditor of State Dennis Milligan’s office is celebrating a bill the Legislature passed Thursday that will allow his office to automatically mail unclaimed property checks to Arkansans.
 Senate Bill 14, sponsored by Sen. Dave Wallace of Leachville and Rep. Jon Milligan of Lake City, aims to return Arkansans’ unclaimed money without them having to file a claim or submit documentation. The process, known as the “data match initiative,” is already adopted by 24 other states. It allows the auditor’s office to send checks to people with unclaimed funds between $50 and $5,000, so long as the owners’ information is validated through several identity-verification processes.
 “This is a government efficiency bill that will cut red tape and bureaucracy and will help my office get citizens their unclaimed money more effectively,” Milligan said. “This isn’t the state’s money; it belongs to the citizens.”
 The process will only apply to individual claims. Heirs making a claim for a deceased relative, businesses and nonprofit organizations, or people who are owed mineral rights, tangible items or securities will still need to file a claim through the traditional process via the website www.claimitar.gov, Milligan said.
Unclaimed property consists of financial accounts such as abandoned checking or savings accounts, utility deposits that were not returned, stock or mutual fund shares, life insurance proceeds, overpayments, etc. When owners abandon a financial account – through a move or a death, for instance – and the original company cannot locate the owner, the money or properties from that account are deemed abandoned and are remitted to the Auditor of State’s office. The office’s Unclaimed Property division then works to connect property to rightful owners through the Great Arkansas Treasure Hunt program.
 The auditor’s office has more than $400 million that is owed to current and former Arkansans. Through the data match initiative, the office has identified nearly 360,000 properties valued at more than $83 million.
The office plans to process the 360,000 properties in small batches due to the high volume, Milligan said.
 “As eager as I am to reconnect citizens with their unclaimed property, implementing the data match program will take time. Once we begin each batch, we will notify the owners via postal mail that we intend to mail them a check. Following a 90-day waiting period to adjust for any returned mail or bad addresses, we will be able to tell people their check is in the mail.”
Checks will only be mailed to people who the office has identified through multiple identity matches, including a federal archive that detects whether someone has died and the postal service’s National Change of Address database, Milligan said.
“Once fully implemented, this data match initiative will allow us to return several million dollars back into Arkansans’ hands where it rightfully belongs,” Milligan said. “It’s just the right thing to do.”
Since taking office in January 2023, Milligan’s administration has returned more than $70 million to citizens through the Great Arkansas Treasure Hunt. To see if you might have unclaimed property in the Great Arkansas Treasure Hunt, visit www.claimitar.gov.  
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State Capitol Week in Review
By Senator Bryan B. King
The Senate approved legislation to improve maternal health care in Arkansas, especially in areas where existing medical services are lacking.
Also, a bill to provide a free breakfast every day to all students continued to breeze through the legislature and should soon be sent to the governor for her signature. It is part of her legislative agenda.
Senate Bill 213, known as the “Healthy Moms, Healthy Babies Act,” changes Medicaid regulations to make prenatal care much more accessible in areas of the state that have been designated as maternal care deserts, because of a lack of obstetricians.
It establishes presumptive eligibility for pregnant women who apply for Medicaid. This allows them to get immediate prenatal care, while they’re waiting for a full application to be processed.
Also, SB 213 authorizes Medicaid to reimburse doulas and community health workers, including for visits to the pregnant woman’s home if the visit is related to prenatal or postpartum care.
Medicaid coverage will include office visits, laboratory fees, tests ordered by a physician, blood work, remote monitoring, fetal nonstress tests and glucose monitoring to detect possible gestational diabetes. Self measurement blood pressure devices will be covered also.
The House passed an identical bill. Improving maternal health care is part of the governor’s legislative agenda.
The Senate also approved a package of bills intended to prevent deceptive practices when canvassers collect signatures from registered voters, in order to place an issue on the ballot.
SB 207 would require canvassers to inform people, before collecting their signatures, that petition fraud is a Class A misdemeanor. The disclosure could be verbal, or in a separate written document that would be shown to people before they sign.
SB 208 would require canvassers to view a photo ID of each person signing the petition. If canvassers are unable to verify someone’s identity, they may not collect a signature.
SB 209 directs the Secretary of State to not count signatures on a petition if a preponderance of evidence indicates that the canvasser has violated state laws or provisions in the state Constitution regarding canvassing, perjury, forgery or fraudulent practices in getting signatures.
SB 210 would require people to read the ballot title of a ballot issue before signing the petition. The ballot title is a summary of all the provisions in the proposed constitutional amendment or initiated act. The bill allows for the ballot title to be read to the person signing, in the presence of the canvasser.
SB 211 would require canvassers to submit a sworn statement that he or she has complied with all state laws governing the collection of signatures, and with the Constitution. Unless the canvasser submits the sworn statement, any signatures he or she turns in will not be counted by the Secretary of State.
SB 59 would provide a free breakfast to all public school students, regardless of their family income, beginning in the 2025-2026 school year. It has been passed by the Senate and cleared a Senate committee.

News for Friday, February 14, 2025

Cast and crew sign-up, auditions forGreat Passion Play to be held Feb. 23
EUREKA SPRINGS - Cast and crew sign-up and auditions for The Great Passion Play in Eureka Springs, Arkansas,  will be on Sunday, Feb. 23 on the grounds of The Great Passion Play. Those  interested in returning or becoming a member of the cast may apply between 2-3:30 p.m. on Feb. 23.
The 2025 season is 70 shows from Good Friday and Saturday, April 18 and 19, and resumes the  first weekend of May with shows continuing Memorial Day Weekend through Saturday,  November 8. Men, women, and children five years of age and older are needed for this year’s  cast. There is a particular need for men between the ages of 18 and 55 to play the parts of  apostles, priests, and soldiers as well as families with children.
The Great Passion Play is "America’s #1 Attended Outdoor Drama” according to the Institute of  Outdoor Theatre in Greenville, North Carolina with over 8 million people in attendance. This  magnificent production vividly portrays the final days of Christ’s earthly life. Over 200 actors are hired annually to bring the story to life in a huge outdoor setting under the beautiful Ozark  night skies. If you have ever wanted to be a cast member of a world-class theatrical production,  let this be your year to apply.  
For the 2025 season, The Great Passion Play is receiving a massive "audio" lift (similar to a  facelift, but audio-style) with a new musical score and soundtrack composed and produced by  John Stanley (Warner Global Entertainment, Netflix: Love is Blind, America's Got Talent  Golden Buzzer Act "The Silhouettes", Multi-Emmy Award Winning Composer Team  "CrimeSonics" writing for multiple television series on Hulu, CBS, ABC and many other  networks).
The production team flew to Budapest in August 2024 and recorded the entire new musical score  with the award winning Budapest Scoring Orchestra (Mission Impossible: Dead Reckoning,  Kobra Kai, Megan, Wednesday and so many more) and is currently being mixed and mastered  for theater by multi-Grammy Award winning mix engineer Rob Burrell (Disney - Marvel  Avengers Entertainment Entity, Josh Groban, Carrie Underwood and many others).  
Alongside the new musical score, the Passion Play is installing a new state-of-the-art sound  system from RCF to give a fully immersed surround sound experience. This will be comparable  to watching a film with normal surround sound in a movie theater versus experiencing a movie in  IMAX, but to a greater degree in sound engineering. This enhanced Dolby Atmos Surround  sound experience will be the first of its kind in any live theater venue.
Those who have an interest in joining this wonderful cast and who are unable to come to the cast  registration are invited to call the Play before Feb 23 at 479-253-8559 between 9:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. to be considered, or you can go to GreatPassionPlay.org/applications.html to  download the required documents.
In conjunction with cast registration, applications will be received, and interviews conducted for  the following positions: food service, Holy Land Tour actors, gift shop workers, maintenance,  ushers, bus drivers, docents (museum guides), reservations and sales, and landscaping/gardening positions on the grounds of The Great Passion Play on Sunday, Feb. 23.
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Holiday Island Chamber of Commercerevives Events Committee, seeks volunteers
HOLIDAY ISLAND - The Holiday Island Chamber of Commerce is breathing new life into its Events Committee and is calling on community-minded members to get involved.
This initiative aims to enhance the area's event offerings by organizing and executing popular gatherings, including the 7th Annual Bass Tournament, Pollinator Festival, Ribs & Rides, and other exciting community celebrations. With the right team in place, the Chamber hopes to expand its calendar and create even more opportunities for local businesses and residents to connect.
“We’re thrilled to bring back the Events Committee and engage passionate individuals who want to make a difference in our community,” said Peggy Lodewyks, President of the Holiday Island Chamber of Commerce. “These events not only bring people together but also help support our local businesses and strengthen the vibrant spirit of Eureka Springs.”
The Chamber is looking for dedicated members who possess strong communication, organization, leadership, and problem-solving skills—as well as a passion for event planning and community engagement. Volunteers will have the opportunity to work alongside fellow business owners, build valuable relationships, and play a key role in shaping the town’s event landscape.
Anyone interested in joining the committee is encouraged to reach out by email or phone at 479-244-9595.
With this revival, the Chamber is setting the stage for a more dynamic and connected community, ensuring that Holiday Island continues to thrive through engaging and impactful events.
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Operation Voice combats human traffickingin Fort Smith, offers hope to victims
Twelve adults believed to be victims of human trafficking were offered services, and another 32 local victims were identified as part of Operation VOICE (Victims’ Opportunity for Independence, Care, and Empowerment), which took place in Fort Smith during the month of January. One suspected trafficker was identified.
Arkansas State Police (ASP) and members of the Arkansas Human Trafficking Council conducted the single-day operation, which focused on providing victims with essential services, including food, lodging, medical assistance, counseling, therapy, and drug rehabilitation.
“This operation brought together law enforcement and victim support organizations from across the state, working compassionately to combat human trafficking,” said ASP Director Colonel Mike Hagar. “Together, we aim to recover victims and hold traffickers accountable, all in the hope of creating safer and more supportive communities for everyone.”
Prior to and during the operation, intelligence analysts and law enforcement officers worked to identify local victims. In preparation for the operation, two children were also removed from exploitative, vulnerable, and unstable conditions. All minors were taken into protective custody, while adult victims received support services.
“In law enforcement, there are many ways we can impact a community, but none more profound than showing kindness where only malevolence once existed,” said Major Stacie Rhoads, CID commander.
The operation was made possible through the coordinated efforts of representatives from federal, state, local, and non-government organizations, including the Arkansas Attorney General’s Office, Fort Smith Police Department, Sebastian County Sheriff’s Office, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Arkansas Fusion Center, along with victim advocates and medical personnel from The Genesis Project, ReClaim, Into the Light, ACASA, Crisis Intervention Center, and the NWA Forensic Nurse Team.
In 2024, over 700,000 escort advertisements were posted in Arkansas. The Human Trafficking Council reported recovering a total of 82 high-risk missing children, and investigations into human trafficking identified over 300 victims statewide.
ASP is unable to release further details, as the investigation is ongoing.
Human Trafficking continues to be a challenge in Arkansas and across the United States. If you have information or suspect human trafficking in your area, please contact the Arkansas Human Trafficking Council at reportht@asp.arkansas.gov or the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 888-373-7888
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Protect your kids online: ASP issueswarning on Safer Internet Day
In 2024, Arkansas State Police’s Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force investigated 169 instances of sextortion. That number has soared in recent years, and is up from only 16 cases investigated in 2020.
This week the nation marked Safer Internet Day 2025 and the Arkansas State Police took the opportunity to emphasize the importance of online safety and provide tips for parents to help their children stay safe and thrive in the digital world.
“The task force receives around 6,000 tips a year. Each of the 169 sextortion cases the task force worked in 2024 revolved around boys. These perpetrators scout for the most popular children, preying on their social standing for extortion,” said Sergeant Corwin Battle, Commander of the Arkansas ICAC Task Force. “They employ fear, threatening to unleash private conversations and intimate pictures to the entire school if their demands aren’t met promptly. Parents must engage in dialogues with their children from an early age, creating a safe space where kids feel comfortable sharing their concerns and fears, ensuring they don’t have to face such battles alone.”
With the rise of social media and virtual reality, there are many exciting opportunities to connect with others online. These connections, however, come with risks and challenges. ASP urges parents to warn their children that everything they see online is not as it appears, including the identities of people they meet.
“The internet is right there in the palm of our children’s hands, and often parents don’t know where the internet has taken their child,” said Major Stacie Rhoads, ASP Criminal Investigation Division Commander. “It’s important for parents to know where their kids are, who they are talking to, and what they are curious about.”
Maj. Rhoads reminds parents to discuss the dangers of sharing or downloading content. “Everything creates a digital footprint. Think twice before posting anything, and avoid sharing content you wouldn’t say in person,” she said. “Remember, anything posted online can be screenshotted and manipulated. The best way to keep your personal information safe is to avoid sharing it. Once something is posted online, it remains indefinitely and may fall into the wrong hands. We are reminding parents to be vigilant in identifying and stopping sexual predators who target children through online connections.”
Parents should:
Educate children about online safety and the importance of staying cautious.Monitor their children’s online activities and the apps they use.Encourage open conversations about internet use and potential risks.Key Safety Tips:
Set social media accounts to private and disable location sharing.Avoid meeting strangers from the internet without verifying their identity.Be cautious when sharing or downloading content online.Never provide personal information to unknown individuals or in response to unsolicited requests.Research apps before downloading, and be aware of their content and privacy settings.If you encounter suspicious online activity or potential threats: Report to local law enforcement or the Arkansas State Fusion Center at (501) 618-8001.
Contact the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children at 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678).
Everyone can contribute to promoting responsible internet use. Open conversations are the best starting point and ongoing dialogue encourages comfortable discussions and helps prevent and respond to online issues. Sharing these tips with friends and family can help raise awareness for Safer Internet Day.
Follow #SaferInternetDay and #SID2025 on social media to learn more about Safer Internet Day and how you can get involved at https://safer.connectsafely.org.
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Lovebirds? The Great BackyardBird Count begins Valentine’s Day
 Valentine’s day isn’t the only big event for birds-of-a-feather this year. The 28th edition of the annual Great Backyard Bird Count is coming up Feb. 14-17, and anyone who wants to join is welcome.
The Great Backyard Bird Count is a joint project of the National Audubon Society, Cornell Lab of Ornithology and Birds Canada to help scientists track changes in bird populations over time.
Roughly 300,000 people worldwide participate in the annual event. Their combined records reported 7,920 species during last year’s citizen science project. These records are extremely valuable to researchers, ornithologists and other conservationists who are keeping tabs on the world’s avian species.
The count takes place each February to get a snapshot of bird distribution just before spring migrations carry many species back to their nesting grounds. Combined with data from counts held at other times of the year, the data collected during the BBC delivers insight into how species are reacting to changes in climate and environments.
It only takes 15 minutes to participate, but you can choose to record bird sightings throughout the entire event if you choose. And because bird-watching can be done from practically anywhere, people from all skill levels and all walks of life can contribute to the valuable data being collected through the program.
“The Great Backyard Bird Count is a great reason to get outdoors this weekend, and it’s a great way for people of all skill levels to get involved in conservation,” Kirsten Bartlow, Watchable Wildlife Program coordinator for the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, said. “There are tons of resources online for people who may be new to identifying the many species that can be found in Arkansas. The Merlin app from Cornell is a great start, and you can even participate in the count through it. The AGFC has a portal to Arkansas eBird to give a more customized experience here in The Natural State.”
To learn more about how to take part in the Great Backyard Bird Count, visit birdcount.org.  For those Arkansans interested in taking their birding to the next level, visit www.agfc.com/wingsoverarkansas, a special bird-watching program established by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission that rewards participants with pins and recognition for recording bird species throughout The Natural State.

Cancellation List for Wednesday, February 12, 2025

KINGSTON SCHOOLS WILL START AT 9:50 

EUREKA SPRINGS SCHOOL WILL BE CLOSED TODAY

GREEN FOREST SCHOOL WILL BE CLOSED TODAY

BERRYVILLE SCHOOLS WILL BE CLOSED TODAY
 HUNTSVILLE SCHOOL WILL BE CLOSED TODAY
 OAKS CHRISTIAN ACADEMY WILL BE CLOSED TODAY
 THE LEARNING CENTER OF NORTH ARKANSAS ALL LOCATIONS WILL BE CLOSED TODAY
 EUREKA SPRINGS DISTRICT COURT STARTS AT 10:30
JUDGE JACKSONS DISTRICT COURT STARTS AT 10:30
BERRYVILLE CIRCUIT COURT WILL BEGIN AT 10AM
ALL CARROLL COUNTY OFFICES WILL OPEN AT 10:30 TODAY
ALL CARROLL COUNTY LIBRARIES WILL OPEN AT 10:30 TODAY
THE MADISON COUNTY LIBRARY WILL OPEN AT 10AM TODAY
 CITY OF BERRYVILLE WATER DEPARTMENT WILL OPEN AT 10AM
 THE BERRYVILLE COMMUNITY CENTER WILL OPEN AT 10AM
 CARROLL COUNTY FARM BUREAU WILL OPEN AT 10AM TODAY 

LOAVES AND FISHES WILL BE CLOSED TODAY
 

News for Wednesday, February 12, 2025

Winter weather forces school closures

CARROLL COUNTY – Another surge of winter weather resulted in school closures across the listening area this morning.

Berryville, Green Forest and Eureka Springs Public Schools all announced early this morning that their campuses would be closed today due to snow and ice accumulations overnight.

A Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect for Carroll and Madison Counties through noon today.

The winter precipitation is expected to end late afternoon/early evening. However, the listening area will plunge well below the freezing point tonight with a low of 15. Tomorrow’s high is 32 with a low of 21 that evening. Temperatures will begin to warm back up on Friday and Saturday before dropping again to 17 degrees Saturday night. There is a 30-70 percent chance of rain between Friday night and Saturday, with that precipitation possibly turning to snow again Saturday night.

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Jay Bunyard, owner of Carroll County Broadcasting,
elected chair of Arkansas Economic Development board

BERRVYILLE - Local businessman and community leader Jay Bunyard has been elected Chairman of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission (AEDC) Board of Directors. A longtime advocate for economic growth and business development in the state, Bunyard brings a wealth of experience to his new role, having spent years at the forefront of media and telecommunications in Arkansas.

Bunyard, the President of Bunyard Media Group, oversees the operation of 14 radio stations across five Arkansas communities: Berryville, Camden, De Queen, Mena, and Nashville. In addition, he serves as President of Arklahoma Broadcast & Communication Towers, a company that leases towers to wireless carriers in Arkansas and Oklahoma. Last year, he purchased two long-running weekly Arkansas newspapers: The Mena Star and The De Queen Bee. The purchase also included The Ouachita Trading Post.

Bunyard resides in De Queen with his wife, Teresa.

His leadership in the broadcast industry has been widely recognized, including receiving the Silver Microphone Award for contributions to the field and serving as co-chairman of the Legislative Liaison Committee for the Arkansas Broadcasters Association. He currently serves on the ABA Board of Directors and has previously served as President of the Association.

In a recent interview, Bunyard outlined his vision for Arkansas’ economic future, emphasizing the AEDC’s role as a bridge between public and private partnerships. He highlighted key areas of focus, including attracting industries to the state, supporting small businesses, and providing tax incentives to encourage job growth.

“Our primary focus is economic growth—recruiting industries, creating good-paying jobs, and ensuring Arkansas remains competitive,” Bunyard said. He underscored the importance of investing in industrial sites and workforce training programs, key initiatives that align with Governor Sarah Sanders’ economic development agenda.

Bunyard also pointed to major economic developments across the state, including the lithium industry boom, the announcement of a Messer $70 million industrial gas facility in Berryville, and recent expansions in the defense sector at Highland Industrial Park in East Camden. He noted that while Arkansas is making strides in job creation, there is still work to be done in securing fair business incentives and improving infrastructure to attract investors.

One of the challenges Bunyard identified is the need for more “shovel-ready” industrial sites to attract businesses. He mentioned that the AEDC recently invested $10 million to improve industrial sites. Additionally, he hopes to secure another $25 million in legislative funding this year to further improve industrial development opportunities.
Another key focus is job retention. Citing the recent closure of Husqvarna in Nashville despite its profitability, Bunyard stressed the importance of providing incentives to businesses to modernize and remain competitive.

“It's easier to keep the jobs we already have than to recruit new ones,” he said, suggesting that sales tax credits for businesses investing in equipment upgrades could help mitigate unexpected job losses.

He also acknowledged the growing concern over Arkansas’ energy infrastructure, emphasizing the need to incentivize investments in electric utilities. With some coal plants set to close by 2030, he noted that proactive planning is essential to meet the state’s future energy demands.

Bunyard’s role as Chairman of the AEDC will also involve significant travel, attending economic development meetings, groundbreakings, and working closely with state officials. One of his responsibilities includes selecting locations for AEDC quarterly meetings, and he has already arranged for Mena and Camden to host future meetings.

“It’s an honor to serve, and I’ll do my best to advocate for our communities and ensure Arkansas remains a great place to live and work,” he concluded.

With his extensive background in business, media, and economic development, Jay Bunyard is poised to lead the AEDC into a new chapter of growth and opportunity for Arkansas.

During a recent interview, AEDC Director Clint O’Neal said he’s excited to work with Bunyard in his new role.

"Well, Jay Bunyard, he's not only a community hero at De Queen, but he's been a lot of fun to get to know as a part of the AEDC Council," said O'Neal. "I'm  so excited to serve alongside him in 2025 in his role as chairman."

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22nd annual Northwest Arkansas Model Train Show

SPRINGDALE – The J. Reilly McCarren Transportation Museum, located in Springdale, will host the 22nd annual Northwest Arkansas Model Train Show on Saturday, Feb. 22 at the Benton County Fairgrounds located at 640 SW Regional Airport Boulevard. The show will being at 9 a.m. and continue through 4 p.m.

There will be several model train layouts on display including those made from LEGO. Vendors will be setup selling model train locomotives, cars and various railroad memorabilia. There will be drawings for door prizes including train rides on the A&M Railroad excursion train. In 2024, there were 1,500 guests attending the show.

Proceeds from the NWA Train Show will go towards local children’s charities such as the Arkansas Children’s Hospital, Toys for Tots, Salvation Army Angel Tree and Shiloh Museum of Ozark History.

The J. Reilly McCarren Transportation Museum is dedicated to safety awareness, education and railroad preservation. Brenda Rouse, A&M Excursion Train Manager, stated “The Transportation Museum is located at 305 E. Emma, Adjacent to the railroad depot in Downtown Springdale.”

Arrest Reports: 2/11

Carroll Coleman of Green Forest was arrested on 02/10 for Body Attachment for Child Support, Revocation. 

Vincent Lazzarotto of Blue Eye was arrested on 02/10 for Driving on Suspended/ Revoked license, Failure to Appear- Fel, Failure to Yield or Stop at Sign, Fleeing-Misd, No Liab INS-Second Offense. 

Kevin-Estuardo Patzan-Estradaher of Green Forest was arrested on 02/10 for No drivers License, No proof of Liability Insurance, Speeding. 

Anna Tweedy of Rogers was arrested on 02/10 for Failure to Pay.

News for Tuesday, February 11, 2025

Arkansas man changes plea to guiltyfor killing three family members in 2021
HUNTSVILLE - In an unexpected turn, a De Queen man pleaded guilty during his jury trial in Madison County late last week to three counts of capital murder.
Hunter Chenoweth, 26, changed his plea to guilty on Friday during the second day of his scheduled jury trial in the Madison County Courthouse. Chenoweth was then sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.
Chenoweth admitted to killing three family members in Madison County in February, 2021: his 51-year-old mother, Tami Lynn Chenoweth; his stepfather, 59-year-old James Stanley McGhee; and his sister, 26-year-old Cheyenne Chenoweth.
During the trial, the jury heard from agents with the Arkansas State Police, a forensic pathologist and witnesses who found the murder weapon near Mayflower.
The jury also listened to a number of phone calls Chenoweth made from the Washington County Jail to his younger sister in which he attempted to influence her testimony.
Chenoweth's lawyers requested a mistrial after they claimed prosecutors improperly introduced evidence. That request was denied by the judge.
The judge handed down three consecutive sentences of life in prison without the possibility of parole.
The trial was scheduled to begin Jan. 21 but was delayed after Madison County Circuit Court Judge Joanna Taylor lost her voice and delayed the start of jury selection.
Chenoweth was arrested the evening of the murders after authorities across the state began searching for a vehicle witnessed at the crime scene.
Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division Special Agents called to the crime scene were able to begin developing leads in the case, prompting a statewide search for two particular vehicles known to have been at the residence earlier in the day and possibly driven away from the crime scene by the killer.  
Information was also developed identifying a child believed to have been at the home who was abducted by the killer or a woman who had also been at the crime scene. State troopers assigned to the Arkansas State Police Highway Patrol Division found one of the vehicles abandoned in Faulkner County along Interstate 40 near Mayflower.  Troopers secured the truck and transported it to state police headquarters where special agents began searching for evidence associated with the Madison County homicides and child abduction. Later that evening, Highway Patrol Division troopers spotted a van matching the description of the second crime scene vehicle traveling westbound along Interstate 30 near Benton.  As state troopers initiated a traffic stop, Chenoweth exited the vehicle armed with a rifle and began verbally provoking the troopers who had made the traffic stop.  Simultaneously other troopers moved-in from behind the gunman and were able to arrest Chenoweth. The driver of the van stopped by state police was a 25 year-old D eQueen woman.  Also in the van was the abducted infant, less than one year-old. The child was unharmed and later released to the Department of Human Services.  The female driver was questioned by state police and released.
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CCSO warns of scam calls
BERRYVILLE - Carroll County Sheriff Daniel Klatt is informing the public that his department has been made aware of a scam going around that involves citizens receiving phone calls that they have a warrant and need to pay for it or turn themselves in.
The sheriff's office stresses this is a scam. No law enforcement agency will EVER call and ask for money over the phone or ask for payments of any kind in the form of gift cards.
Another popular scam that has been going around for a while is calling and telling you a member of your family or a friend has been arrested and needs money. This scam also typically involves sending gift card numbers. Again, no law enforcement agency would accept a gift card as payment.
If you receive one of these calls simply hang up. If you have a concern that it may be true, search for a verified phone number for the department and call it. Do not call back the number that called you.
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Arkansas State Chili Championshipis April 12 at the Barn on Holiday Island
HOLIDAY ISLAND - The Arkansas State Chili Championship will take place at the Barn on Holiday Island on Saturday, April 12.
Tasting will be held from 12:30-4 p.m. Cost is $8 for adults and free for kids 12 and under. Proceeds will benefit Grandma's House - Children's Advocacy Center.
A community connect event will also be held from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. outside The Barn. Organizations, clubs, churches and businesses are invited to set up at now cost. Call (479) 244-9595 to reserve a spot.
The event is sponsored by the Holiday Island Chamber of Commerce, HIHA and the HISID.
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March 17 is a great day for donating to 4-H
Even for a program symbolized by a four-leaf clover, “It takes more than luck to succeed,” says John Thomas, managing director of the Arkansas 4-H Foundation.
To give luck a bit of a boost, the Arkansas 4-H program uses March 17 — a day filled with green and clovers — as an invitation to support its youth development mission through donations.
“People see our youth wearing their green 4-H clovers, they know good things follow. Our 4-H’ers have a tremendous track record of community service,” Thomas said. “Each year, we see St. Patrick’s Day as a way to remind people to help Arkansas 4-H.”
This will be the fifth annual giving day. Thomas said this year’s goal is $45,000.
“Since we started this giving day in 2021, it has become the day that more and more people rally around to support the Arkansas youth we serve through the 4-H program. We've raised over $100,000 since we started and it all goes directly to the youth we serve.”
Each year, Arkansas 4-H distributes more than $150,000 in college and activity scholarships to its members.
“Your donation goes to a good cause,” he said, “We hope you will  support us.”
Thomas said donations can be made online, or donors may text AR4H to 44321. He notes that when texting, donors will be asked to give a $44 default gift or donate a custom amount.
Arkansas 4-H members can attest to the personal growth opportunities the organization offers. There are more than 130,000 youth involved with 4-H in Arkansas.
To learn about extension programs in Arkansas, contact your local Cooperative Extension Service agent or visit www.uaex.uada.edu.

Arrest Reports: 2/10

Vincent Lazzarotto of Blue Eve was arrested on 2/10 for Driving on Suspended/ Revoked License, Failure to Yield or stop at sign, Fleeing- Misd., No Liab Ins-Second Offense. 

Xxavier Masters of Harrison was arrested on 02/09 for Court Commitment. 

Amber Muller of Holiday Island was arrested on 02/10 for DWI #1, Poss. of Open Container of Etoh/Veh., Reckless Driving. 

Tiibwaa Torejak of Berryville was arrested on 02/10 for Driving on Susp. D/L due to DWI, DWI#2, Obstructing Gov Operations Class A, Refusal to Submit to Chemical Test, Speeding, Violation of Interlock Device.

News for Monday, February 10, 2025

Freezing temps, possible winter weatherreturning to listening area
CARROLL COUNTY - After some relatively decent weather in recent days, Arkansas is reminding everyone it's still winter in the Natural State.
According to the National Weather Service, areas of freezing rain may develop this evening through tonightwith the higher terrain of far northwest Arkansas. Any ice accumulation will likely vary due to temperature differences across the terrain, however light amounts could develop on trees and possibly elevated roadways.
Localized travel impacts are possible. Elsewhere, temperatures will likely remain above freezing with widespread rains along and southeast of Interstate 44 this afternoon through tonight.
Impacted areas include Northwest and West Central Arkansas as well as much of Eastern Oklahoma.
Light sleet or snow may spread across portions of northeast Oklahoma on Tuesday with light accumulations possible near the Oklahoma Kansas border. Travel impacts are unlikely given the light accumulation through Tuesday afternoon.
Additional widespread precipitation is expected Tuesdaynight through Wednesday. A winter weather mix is forecast across portions of northeast Oklahoma into far northwest Arkansas.
Light sleet, snow, and ice accumulations are possible andtravel impacts could develop. Monitor later forecasts if you have travel plans Tuesday night through Wednesday night.
Dangerous wind chills will develop at times Wednesday through Thursday before temperatures gradually warm by late week into the weekend. The next storm system brings increasing precipitation chances late Saturday into Sunday.
Today's high is 44 with a low of 33, along with an 80-90 percent chance of showers and freezing rain tonight. Tuesday has an 80 percent chance of rain and a high of 37. Wednesday has a high of 47 and a 90 percent chance of rain becoming freezing rain. The low is 17 Wednesday night and 21 Thursday night.
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Second Arrest Made in Rogers Massage Parlor Human Trafficking Case
ROGERS - Authorities have made a second arrest in connection with human trafficking raids on massage parlors in Rogers, part of Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin's Operation Obscured Vision.
According to a release from the Rogers Police Department (RPD) on January 5, Yuhe Yang was taken into custody earlier in the week. He faces charges of trafficking and engaging in a continuing criminal gang, organization, or enterprise and is currently being held on a $500,000 bond.
During a press conference on January 24, Attorney General Griffin announced that search warrants were executed at 12 locations across Arkansas, many of which were suspected illicit massage parlors. The coordinated efforts led to four arrests.
Rogers police confirmed that raids were conducted at Ping Massage, Stream Massage, and Tulip Massage—all three businesses owned by the same individuals, including Yang.
One of the suspects, Chunli Wang, 50, of Rogers, was arrested at Ping Massage and is facing one count of second-degree sexual assault. Court records indicate she was also connected to Stream Massage. The investigation into the other owners and operators is ongoing.
Griffin revealed that 17 victims were identified in the operation, with 16 receiving assistance. One individual declined care. He noted that all the victims were Chinese nationals.
“I am proud to announce that local law enforcement, in coordination with my office, executed 12 search warrants at illicit massage parlors in Jonesboro, Russellville, Hot Springs, Rogers, Harrison, and a Little Rock hotel,” Griffin stated.
Authorities arrested four individuals on charges of promoting prostitution in the second degree:
-Haiyan Lu, 54, of Harrison-Qing Chen, 53, of Jonesboro-Hongliang Cai, 55, of Jonesboro-Chunli Wang, 50, of Rogers
During the news conference, Griffin also disclosed that another operation was underway in Harrison, leading to an additional arrest. Authorities seized nearly $70,000 in cash, ¥1,870 in Chinese currency, and a Mercedes-Benz as part of the investigation.
Griffin stated that the operation had been two years in the making, crediting the Arkansas General Assembly and Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders for their support in adding a full-time human trafficking investigator to his office.
“This special agent worked tirelessly to coordinate the operation, and it wouldn’t have been possible without their efforts,” Griffin said.
Griffin explained that many trafficking victims are women seeking asylum in the U.S. who are misled by job advertisements and then coerced into working in massage parlors. One victim reported being forced to work 13-hour days, seven days a week.
He also emphasized that Operation Obscured Vision would drive legislative changes in Arkansas to strengthen laws against human trafficking.
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ADH says flu, COVID deaths increase across the state
The Arkansas Department of Health said there were 40 additional COVID-19 deaths and nine more flu deaths in the state in the week ended Saturday, February 1, 2025.
Figures were released Thursday.
About 11 of every 100 children were absent from school during the week, and the number of flu outbreaks in nursing homes and congregate settings almost doubled.
The ADH receives reports of only a fraction of COVID-19 cases and flu cases since it only requires reports of flu hospitalizations, deaths, and outbreaks. RSV is not a reportable disease in Arkansas. The ADH advises that numbers in its weekly update are representative of the timing and location of activity, but dp not reflect the overall disease burden. It is presumed that there are many more people actually affected than the report shows.
KEY POINTS FOR WEEK 5
Arkansas reported “Very High” or 12 out of 13 for the Influenza-Like-Illness (ILI) activity level indicator determined by data reported to ILINet. In the previous week, Arkansas reported “High” or 10 out of 13 indicators.
Hospital Emergency Department visits reported through Syndromic Surveillance were at 14.20% for Influenza-Like-Illness (ILI), 3.56% for COVID-Like-Illness (CLI), and 0.65% for Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). In the previous week, ER visits reported through Syndromic Surveillance were at 9.81% for Influenza-Like-Illness (ILI), 3.31% for COVID-Like-Illness (CLI), and 1.00% for Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV).
Outpatient visits for ILI reported through ILINet from the Sentinel Providers were at 7.95%. In the previous week, outpatient visits for ILI were at 5.22%.
Arkansas Children’s Hospitals and associated clinic locations in central and northwest Arkansas report RSV and Flu A, H3 test positivity at about 14%; Flu A, H1 2009 is currently at 13%. These figures hold steady from the previous week.
The average school absenteeism rate last week was 10.94% among public schools. This is up from the previous week’s average of 9.64%.
Arkansas reported 30 influenza-related deaths this season including one pediatric death, 80% of them were not vaccinated. Through the previous week, Arkansas reported 21 flu deaths this season, 81% of them were not vaccinated.
Nationally, CDC estimates that there have been at least 20 million illnesses, 250,000 hospitalizations, and 11,000 deaths from flu so far this season. The previous week, the CDC estimated 12 million illnesses, 160,000 hospitalizations, and 6,600 deaths from flu so far this season.
Arkansas reported 40 COVID-19-related deaths this week and a total of 530 deaths in 2024, and 37 since January 1, 2024. The weekly deaths reflect week reported or processed, not date of death. Five COVID-19-related deaths were reported the previous week.
This flu season, 28 influenza outbreaks have been reported from Arkansas nursing homes or other congregate setting institutions. The previous week, 16 outbreaks had been reported.
Nationally, the proportion of deaths reported to the National Center for Health Statistics that were attributed to pneumonia, influenza and COVID-19 (PIC) was above the epidemic threshold this week, as was the situation the previous week.
ARKANSAS DEATHS REPORTED FOR WEEK 5
Deaths Reported for Week 5 (deaths reflect week reported, not date of death)
Deaths from all causes: 792
Deaths due to pneumonia: 69
Deaths due to flu: 9
COVID-19 related deaths: 40, including deaths that occurred in 2024 and 2025 cumulative deaths
Total flu deaths since 09/29/24: 30
Total COVID deaths in 2024: 530
Total COVID deaths since 01/01/25: 37
NEW HOSPITAL ADMISSION REPORTS
Flu admissions, 01/26/25 - 02/01/25: 309
Flu admissions prior to 1/26/25 reported this week: 108
COVID admissions week ending 02/01/2025: 62
SCHOOL ABSENTEEISM
Average daily absenteeism for all Arkansas public schools during this reporting week, week ending: 02/01/2025:
Percent Absent, 10.94
Previous Week, 9.64
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State Capitol Week in Review
By Sen. Bryan King
The Senate voted to provide all public school children with free lunches, regardless of their income, beginning in the 2025-2026 school year.
Also, the Senate passed legislation to restrict students’ cell phone use during the school day.
State budget officials estimate that it will cost $14.7 million a year to ensure that all students get one free breakfast every day. The governor has publicly announced her support of the measure, Senate Bill 59. It is co-sponsored by a bipartisan group of 25 senators.
When children go hungry their long-term health is negatively affected, and their grades suffer. Hunger affects a child’s academic performance and increases their chances of being punished for behavioral problems and missing classes, according to testimony before the Senate Education Committee.
National studies indicate that students who have eaten breakfast perform better on standardized tests. Students improve academically in general, and some studies show that they specifically do better in mathematics.
After passing SB 59 the Senate sent it to the House of Representatives, where it has sufficient co-sponsors to guarantee passage.
Currently, students are eligible for free or reduced-price meals depending on their family income. The legislature passed Act 656 in 2023 to prohibit schools from charging students a copayment.
SB 142, to restrict cell phone use by students, also passed overwhelmingly but with a few dissenters who said the measure should also apply to students in private schools. Supporters countered that most private schools already have policies that restrict cell phone use.
SB 142 requires all school districts to adopt a policy to restrict the use of cell phones “from bell to bell.” Its sponsor said the bill’s purposes include eliminating distractions in the classroom and improving the mental and emotional health of young people.
Some students have an individualized education program (IEP) because they have special needs. An IEP may include the use of electronic devices or cell phones. Students with an IEP would be exempt from the restrictions in SB 142.
The state already had been helping school districts with cell phone restrictions. Last year the state provided about $7 million to 180 school districts pay for magnetic pouches and other devices for storing cell phones during the day.
Expanded Child Care
The state Education Department has added 2,600 children to a program that helps families pay for child care, bringing the program to its greatest capacity of about 18,300 student.
According to the department, Arkansas gets about $100 million a year in federal grants to help low-income families pay for child care, thus better preparing them for kindergarten.
Last year the department expanded the program to make more families eligible. The Office of Early Childhood anticipates a waiting list, due to higher demand, beginning this month. However, teen parents and those on welfare, homeless families, children with special needs and foster children will be exempt from the waiting list.
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ASP seizes five kilos of cocaine during traffic stop
On Wednesday, February 5, 2025, around 5:30 p.m., Arkansas State Police (ASP) stopped a 2025 Audi SUV on Interstate 40 eastbound near the 273-mile marker in Crittenden County for a traffic violation.
Troopers searched the SUV and discovered five 1-kilo bundles of cocaine concealed in the vehicle. Each of the bundles was covered by a "Barbie" sticker.
The driver, Daniel Goldfinger, 32, of Salt Lake City, Utah, was taken into custody and transported to the Crittenden County Detention Center, where he was booked on felony charges of Trafficking a Controlled Substance. Goldfinger told investigators that he was in route from Dallas, Texas, to Columbus, Ohio.











  

News for Friday, February 7, 2025

TCWR to host 33rd Annual Kite Fest March 22
Submitted by Cheryl King/Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge
EUREKA SPRINGS - Join us at Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge on March 22, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., for the soaring spectacle of the 33rd Annual Kite Fest. This family-friendly event invites people of all ages to welcome spring in the Ozarks with open arms and uplifted spirits.
Delight in a day filled with food, live music, and a variety of festivities as colorful kites dance across the sky. Whether you're a kite aficionado or a first-time flyer, there's joy to be found for everyone. Bring your own kite, purchase one from KaleidoKites, or tap into your creative side and build one on-site! Children can unleash their creativity with special kite- designing and -making activities hosted by our sponsor, KaleidoKites.
Live entertainment will feature Avery Waltz: United We Rock, whose classic rock tunes will take you back to a sweeter time in life. Get ready to sing every word to the songs you know and love as Avery brings you on a journey through the peak of rock and roll—a nostalgic experience that’s sure to get everyone moving.
There will also be a selection of vendors and food trucks offering delicious eats and unique items to browse. We're letting the cat out of the bag early and announcing that Strike, the NWA Naturals mascot, will be making a special appearance! He’ll likely make his grand entrance around noon—you won’t want to miss this exciting moment! The first 150 attendees will receive free goodie bags, so plan to arrive early! Don’t miss your chance to win one of five fabulous raffle baskets; bring some spare cash to grab a ticket and support a great cause.
Don’t forget to pack a lawn chair, hats, and sunscreen to enjoy the day in comfort. Kite Fest 2025 is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of community and the great outdoors—a fun-filled day for all ages!
The event is free, with standard admission rates applying for entry to tour the refuge. Your visit supports our mission of wildlife conservation and provides a lifelong home for rescued animals. Together, we can preserve and protect the natural beauty of the Ozarks and the creatures that call it home.
We look forward to seeing you at the 33rd Annual Kite Fest and sharing the joy of this wonderful tradition. Let’s make the 33rd Annual Kite Fest the best yet!
For more information, visit www.turpentinecreek.org or contact us at (479) 253-5841.
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Eureka Springs A&P Commissionnominated for tourism award
Arkansas Tourism will announce the winners of the annual Henry Awards on Tuesday, Feb. 25, during the 51st annual Arkansas Governor’s Conference on Tourism in Bentonville. The awards honor the individuals, organizations and attractions making an extraordinary impact on the state’s tourism industry.
The Henry Award is named after Henri de Tonti, a 17th-century explorer believed to be one of the first Arkansas Travelers and who is credited with developing the first trading post in Arkansas.
The Tourism Organization of the Year is one of the awards to be given away this year. It is presented to a convention and visitors bureau, advertising and promotion commission, chamber of commerce or other entity for excellence over the course of the previous year.
-Visit Hot Springs (Hot Springs)
-Eureka Springs City Advertising & Promotion Commission (Eureka Springs)
-Visit Bentonville (Bentonville)
During the awards ceremony, the Tourism Person of the Year will also be announced. Selected by former honorees, the Tourism Person of the Year award is presented to an individual who is actively involved in tourism and has made a substantial contribution within the past year to the betterment of the tourism industry.
The 2025 Tourism Hall of Fame inductees (Joe DeVito and Alice Walton) were previously announced and will also be honored during the ceremony.
Arkansas TourismArkansas Tourism, a division of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism, strives to expand the economic impact of travel and tourism in The Natural State and enhance the quality of life for all Arkansans. For more information, visit www.arkansas.com.
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Mercy Charity Ball scheduled for this Saturday
EUREKA SPRINGS - Mercy Health Foundation is inviting community members to its 21st annual Mercy Charity Ball, scheduled for this Saturday, Feb. 8 at the Inn of the Ozarks in Eureka Springs. The event begins at 6 p.m.
All proceeds from this charitable event will go towards supporting Mercy Hospital Berryville. The hospital has expanded its programs, services, equipment and capital ventures over the years thanks to generous philanthropic support from the community.
The annual Charity Ball will feature a seated dinner, auction, live entertainment and a few extra surprises.
Sponsorship remains a key component in the success of this event, and community members are invited to consider a donation of support.
For questions or more information, contact the Mercy Health Foundation at (870) 423-5245, or visit www.mercyhealthfoundation.net/BerryvilleBall










  

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