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08/19/2022
Arrest Reports: 08/19
Terrance E. Hebert - Fayetteville - 42 - FTA
Shane P. Fancher - Cassville, Mo - 39 - drug paraphernalia (meth) , driving on suspended DL, no proof of liability insurance
Amanda L. Ferguson - BV - 37 - poss. of meth, poss.
of drug paralk no seat belt
Colin C. Linette -BV - 25 - poss. of cocaine, poss. of marijuana,
poss. of drug paraphernalia
Aspin N. McCreary - Oak Grove - 30 - FTA x 2, hold for
other agency, contempt of co9urt
William C. Phillips - BV - 25 - contempt of court
Susie M. Terrell - ES - 32 - breaking or entering
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Beaver Lake F.D. Drops Plan to Raise Fire Dues
Beaver Lake Fire Department stopped its plan to increase fire dues to pay for a fire protection district on Wednesday. Community members packed a Benton County Quorum Court meeting Tuesday night to express their concern with the plan. Chief John Whisenant said the department and its board listened to the community and decided to change its course. The fire department had previously filed a petition for the Benton County Quorum Court to consider approving the fire protection district. “We’re going back to the drawing board to see what would be an acceptable way forward to help fund us,” Whisenant said. Sheila Gallagher has lived in Prairie Creek for 40 years. She said she was happy the fire department decided to change its course for more funding. “I am relieved that the fire department has decided to look for a better way,” Gallagher said. According to Beaver Lake Fire Department, the petition set the boundaries for the district and set the maximum rate of fire dues at 0.325% of a resident’s property appraised value, such as $325 per $100,000. Chief Whisenant said the fire protection was aimed at helping to meet the demands of the area’s growing population. Chief Whisenant said the department will now look at new ways to get additional funding and resources. Whisenant said getting more funding will be critical because of the lack thereof now. Beaver Lake Fire Department had to let go of four of its full-time firefighters because of a lack of money. He also said response times could increase because of this, but said no matter what, the department will be ready to answer any calls. “You are going to get a response from the Beaver Lake Fire Department. It is going to be increasingly harder to get that response in a timely manner,” Whisenant said. Beaver Lake Fire also relies heavily on volunteers, but it currently has none. If you’re interested in becoming a volunteer firefighter, you can visit the fire station on Cypress Lane or head to the website.
Arkansas In the Middle of States with Hiring Challenges
While the jobs market in Arkansas seems to be on the rebound, a new study claims employers in the Natural State rank right in center for challenges in hiring new staff. In a report released by WalletHub Aug. 17, Arkansas ranks number 25 of the 50 states and the District of Columbia, right in the middle, as a state “where employers are struggling the most in hiring.” The score is based upon the job openings rate in the past month and the past 12 months. With that breakdown, the Natural State has a 7% rate in the past month, and a close 6.52% rate for the past 12 months. The study showed Alaska topping the list with an 8.3% rate in the past month and a 9.78% rate in the past 12 months. Washington state has the least struggle, with 5% in the past month and 6.1% in the past 12. In June, Arkansas added 4,100 net payroll jobs in the private sector, according to the United State Congress Joint Economic Committee. The same report shows the state added 32,500 payroll jobs between June 2021 and 2022.
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Treasurer of State Dennis Milligan Releases FY 2022 Investment Report
The state treasury earned $69.9 million during fiscal year 2022, which ran from July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2022, Treasurer of State Dennis Milligan reported to the State Board of Finance today. “That’s nearly double the $35.4 million we earned in FY 21 and brings the total amount receipted under my administration to $498.9 million,” Milligan said. Earnings for the 4th quarter, which ran from April through June, were $24.8 million. While the U.S. economy remained volatile and inflation continued to rise during the 4th quarter, the treasury saw positive growth in its portfolio, particularly in short-term investments such as money market funds, demand accounts and commercial paper. These funds rely heavily on the federal interest rate. The Federal Reserve hiked interest rates by 0.5% in May and another 0.75% in June. The rate increases also affected the treasury’s long-term investments such as mortgage-backed securities and U.S. Treasuries, Milligan said. “While these rate increases are hitting Americans’ pocketbooks – from car and mortgage loans to credit cards – the Treasury’s investment portfolio is not feeling that impact,” Milligan said, adding that the state treasury operates solely within the fixed-income market. “As interest rates rise, it allows us to reinvest principal from previously-purchased securities at a higher yield. So we’re feeling a more positive impact.” Milligan also reported that the state’s investment portfolio has more than doubled in size during his Administration. Milligan attributed the growth of the portfolio to increasing sales tax revenues, federal monies and a dramatic increase in investment receipts during his tenure as treasurer.
School Safety Commission to Have Report to Gov. Hutchinson by October 1
With $50 million now reserved for new school safety initiatives, Arkansas school safety members voted on some of their final recommendations they will submit to the full commission. This will determine what is included in the final report due to Gov. Asa Hutchinson by Oct. 1 "According to the report on Uvalde, it said that Robb Elementary had a non-compliance with safety policy that required doors be kept locked," said one committee member. "This turned out to be fatal." To ensure a similar tragedy doesn’t happen in Arkansas, members from the five school safety subcommittees walked through their priorities to protect students and staff. Today’s approved recommendations included mandatory locked school building and classroom doors, surveillance cameras that can be accessed by law enforcement during a critical incident, school staff mental health awareness training and an armed presence in all school buildings. "We feel like just the mere presence of a uniformed officer on a daily basis would be effective in preventing and thwarting any attack that might take place," said Washington County Sheriff Tim Helder, who chairs the subcommittee on law enforcement and security. But based on debate from the special session, not all Arkansas legislators are on board with armed school staff members "I think it's gobbledygook," Helder said. "I think that same legislator when that attack does occur and mass casualties happen in that district. I think they will have a different perspective and outlook on this." Other recommendations include behavioral threat assessment training for all districts — also approved today. But more recommendations are forthcoming.
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Arkansas Public Employees Retirement System Investments Take Big Hit
The Arkansas Public Employees Retirement System's investmentsopped in value by $1.5 billion in the last fiscal year that ended June 30 to $10.04 billion amid declining stock and bond markets, an investment consultant reported Wednesday. The system's investment return in fiscal 2022 was minus-10.54% and ranked in the bottom 32% among similar public retirement systems across the nation, San Francisco-based investment consultant Callan reported to the system's board of trustees. The median investment return among the system's peers across the nation in fiscal 2022 was minus- 9.35%, according to Callan. The value of the system's investments has rebounded since the end of fiscal 2022. They were valued at $10.6 billion as of July 31, said the system's chief investment officer, Carlos Borromeo. The $1.5 billion drop in the value of system's investments in fiscal 2022 came on the heels of the system's investments benefiting from robust markets and increasing by $2.5 billion in value to $11.6 billion in fiscal 2021 that ended June 30, 2021. The system's investment return in fiscal 2021 was 31.49%. The public employees retirement system is the state government's second-largest retirement system with more than 80,000 working and retired members. State government's largest retirement system is the Arkansas Teacher Retirement System with more than $20 billion in investments and more than 100,000 working and retired members.
Thunder Ridge Amp to Reopen in September
The newly expanded Thunder Ridge is set to reopen in September, holding up to 50,000 people for events like bull riding and large music acts. Big Cedar Lodge marketing Jeff Wilhoit said the new venue will wow people. “It’s a massive facility, and the great thing about it is it’s a multi-use facility, so we’ll have lots of special events that we can announce in the future,” said Wilhoit. Wilhoit said the land currently filled with dirt will be turned into the re-imagined Thunder Ridge Natural Arena packed with luxury suites, general seating, lawn areas, and 15,000 hidden parking spaces. Wilhoit said there will be views of the mountains to the lake as they expanded the original 10,000-seat amphitheater into a 50,000-person venue, ready in just 39 days. Wilhoit said they are working with state and local officials and a traffic pattern company to help with traffic, but people in the area may have to get used to more cars. Wilhoit said the views from the new area will be hard to beat, as builders took inspiration from Table Rock Lake and structures across the country. Thunder Ridge is set to reopen in September, hosting Thunder Days, a Professional Bull Rider team series competition. Garth Brooks will open the newly expanded Thunder Ridge Nature Arena at Bass Pro Shops Big Cedar Lodge in the Ozarks of Missouri. The concert happens on October 1 at 7 p.m. Tickets go on sale on Friday, August 26 at 10 a.m. There will be an eight-ticket limit per purchase. You can purchase tickets at ticketmaster.com/garthbrooks or through the Ticketmaster App on your mobile phone. Tickets will cost $98.95, all-inclusive.
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08/18/2022
Arrest Reports: 08/18
Chelsea D. Blair - Omaha - battery, non-financial identity theft,
escape 3rd degree, obstructing Gov operations, resisting arrest,
hold for Boone County
Dean L. Burnett - GF - 32 - possession of controlled substance
- meth, poss. drug paraphernalia, poss. controlled substance,
FTA, hold for Parole
Ariel B. Henry - Darnanelle - 21 - terroristic threatening x 2
Ashlei M. Marriott - BV - 30 - FTA
Orion A. McWilliams - ES - 42 - FTA
Daniel J. Zaloudek - BV - 21 - poss. methamphetamine, poss. drug paraphernalia, poss. controlled substance, marijuana, no drivers license, improper display of licennse, delivery of meth
Berryville City Council Report
The Berryville City Council met Tuesday for their final meeting of the month. Police Chief Robert Bartos had his monthly report for July for the Council. Police wrote 78 citations, compared with 117 last year in July. Offenses reported to Police were 73, compared to 61 last year. The city had four aggravated assaults and battery, two burglaries/breaking and entering, 18 thefts/shoplifting and an arson, and several others miscellaneous charges. Police responded to 18 traffic accidents in July. Many were for failure to yield, improper backing and following too close. Mayor McKinney reported a problem with the main water tank and said some repairs will be forthcoming. The Mayor also advised the city will likely be raising water rates, as its been several years since the last one. The next meeting of the City Council will be Tuesday, September 6th.
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Beaver Lake Fire Department Looking to Increase Revenue - Residents Unhappy
Some people who live around Beaver Lake are unhappy after the local fire department submitted a petition to the Benton County Quorum Court that could cost them more money. The Beaver Lake Fire Department is looking to increase revenue by getting the quorum court to create a new fire district and increase fees for residents. Residents around Beaver Lake pay $150 a year to the fire department, but a proposal shared at a meeting on August 16 shows the department could be looking to increase its annual revenue by as much as 600%. “The law is there, and the fire board is using the tools at their disposal,” State Rep. Joshua Bryant said. “It’s just one of those things that doesn’t seem very fair the way the law was written. And so, I would propose they pull that petition and they actually go to a vote of the people.” Many residents voiced an interest in supporting the fire department. Some even say they’d be willing to pay more in dues. There is concern over the fact that the Beaver Lake Fire Department said it had been working on the plan for 16 months and many residents had just learned of it. The quorum court will decide whether to approve the petition. The next
full quorum court meeting is on August 25.
Single Parent Scholarship Fund Opens Spring Semester Applications
The Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund (ASPSF), which awards financial assistance to single parents in Arkansas, announced today that it has started accepting applications for the spring 2023 semester. ASPSF grants award amounts of up to $1,200 to eligible single parents residing in Arkansas. The fund assists both part-time and full-time parent students who are pursuing post secondary education such as associate and bachelor's degrees as well as certificate and technical programs. According to ASPSF, scholarships are flexible and considered "discretionary," meaning parents can use the funds to make essential purchases such as child care, gas, car repairs, laptops and utilities. In addition to providing funding, ASPSF provides individual support to recipients in the form of workshops and personal mentorship on job-readiness. “There are people that care, and they really want to help you. I get an email from [Program Manager] Sandy four times a month. She’s checking on me; she’s given me ideas on where to apply for other scholarships. She really cares about the people that receive this scholarship,” said Jasandra Gil, a nursing major at University of Arkansas-Fort Smith. The scholarship fund has awarded more than 1,400 scholarships totaling $1.4 million across Arkansas since it started 30 years ago. Applications and eligibility requirements can be found on ASPSF's website. The deadline to apply is Oct. 15, 2022. Individuals seeking more information regarding the Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund can contact Program Manager Sandy Nelso
via email at snelson@aspsf.org.
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SWEPCO to Waive Late Fees and Extended Payment Plans
Southwestern Electric Power Co. announced Tuesday it will be waiving late fees and offering extended payment plans to help combat high bills due to increased demand and rising fuel costs. According to a press release, all SWEPCO customers who enroll in the extended payment plan will have up to 12 months to pay their bill in full. In some cases, deposits can also be waived. We understand customers are concerned about the rising cost of electricity across our region as we have experienced record-breaking heat this summer coupled with rising fuel costs. We want to give customers every opportunity to keep their electric service connected at home. These new measures will allow customers the ability to continue paying toward their electric bill while giving them peace of mind knowing they will remain connected to their service. If you wish to get late fees and deposits waived, call 1-888-216-3523 to speak with a SWEPCO representative who can also help set up an extended payment plan. SWEPCO says customers should be aware that the company is experiencing ongoing high call volumes. Customers who are current on their account can choose to make payment arrangements online by logging in at SWEPCO.com/Assist or over the phone. The release says customers can also give directly to a family member, friend or neighbor in need through the Lighting Utility Voucher (LUV) program. The credit can be applied directly to the recipient’s account. Customers can visit SWEPCO.com/LUV to download the form and mail in their
contribution using a check or money order.
ORT Sees Demand for Service Tripled This Year
Springdale-based transit provider Ozark Regional Transit (ORT) has seen demand for its on-demand service triple since launching earlier this year on the Via platform. Ride requests have risen from about 500 per week in late February to 1,500 in the last week of July, according to Sara-Jessica Dilks, associate principal, public relations for New York-based Via. The company provides the technology platform for the ORT service that’s offered in Bentonville, Fayetteville and Rogers On-demand ridership has risen consistently since the service started Feb. 22 on the Via platform. According to Via, the ridership was 4,456 in July, up 71.9% from 2,592 in March, the first full month on the platform. July ridership rose by 8.1%, from 4,122 in June.
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White House Covid Coordinator Says More Action Needed - Hundreds A Day Still Dying
The White House COVID coordinator is warning that the pandemic could get really bad again if we don’t take action. His remarks come as a spokeswoman for the First Lady revealed she tested positive for coronavirus. On Tuesday, President Joe Biden offered a quick update when reporters asked how Jill Biden is feeling. “Good. She’s feeling well,” Biden said. This comes just days after the president recovered from the virus himself. Both instances serve as high-profile reminders that the pandemic is still ongoing. That point was also made by White House COVID coordinator Dr. Ashish Jha when he talked with the Chamber of Commerce on Tuesday. He says while the U.S. is in a better place than before, there are still hundreds of people dying from the virus each day. He also argued that we can’t just forget about COVID-19. “If we do nothing and just sort of hope for the best, I think we could end up getting into a lot of trouble,” Jha said. To prevent that, the Biden administration is facilitating the development of a new variant specific vaccine, which could be ready as early as next month. “It’s going to be really important that people this fall and winter get the new shot,” Jha said. He also says it’s critical for schools and businesses to update their indoor ventilation and for COVID-19 treatments, masks, and testing to be widely available. “If we do all of those things I am confident we keep every business open, we keep every school open, we don’t have to have hospitals that are overwhelmed and can’t take care of other people,” Jha said. Long term, Jha says he thinks the U.S. government shouldn’t be the one funding the COVID-19 fight. Instead, he argues that treatment and prevention should become part of the commercial healthcare system.
New Girl Scout Cookie Flavor Coming - Raspberry Rally
The Girl Scouts revealed the latest cookie in their lineup, the Raspberry Rally. Raspberry Rally is described as a sister cookie to Thin Mints. The cookie is infused with raspberry flavored mint and dipped in the same chocolate coating. Raspberry Rally will be the first Girl Scout cookie available only for online purchases and delivery directly to homes. A local Girl Scout will place the order for you online. The group said the goal is to help them build e- commerce skills. The new cookies will be available during the 2023 cookie season, which run
from January to April.
08/17/2022
Arrest Reports: 08/17
Tyler J. Deatherage - BV - 33 - FTA, revocation
Cody W. Finch - Shell Knob, - 27 - DWI, poss. of open container, reckless driving, speeding, driving left of center, fleeing
Elizabeth M. Gardner - Lead Hill - 60 - FTA
Dario A. Martinez-Tomas - GF - 27 - no drivers license, no seat belt
Jeremy V. Mendez - BV - 22 - improper passing, obstructing a windshield, driving left of center, driving on suspended DL, speeding, fleeing, no liability insurance, reckless driving, DWI, refusal to submit tochemical test, defective equipment, littering, failure to yield to emergency vehicle, FTA x 3
Cha Tate - BV - 57 - DWI, implied consent, no drivers license
Miss Carroll County 2021 - Sarah Pruente
For the past few weeks CCB has been featuring the young ladies who are participating in the Junior Miss and Senior Miss Carroll County Pageant this year.. There are eight Junior contestants and 6 Seniorcontestants. On Tuesday's news, we featured an interview with the current reigning Jr. Miss Carroll County, Sadie Sharp. She told us how her year has been as the Junior Miss. Today we hear from Sarah Pruente, the current reigning Miss Carroll County for a few days atleast. We thank all of our Fair Sponsors for the interviews. A full list of those sponsors and the full Fair Schedule on our
Carroll County Fair Page!
On Monday, two Junior Fair Board members came into CCB and talked to Anthony Writer about Kids Night at the
Fair coming on Monday, August 22nd.
Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over
Drivers under the influence are at a greater risk than ever as a new law enforcement program rolls out. Arkansas State Police stated that beginning Aug. 19 weekend law enforcement, including police andsheriffs, will increase patrols targeting drivers who are under the influence. The program, under the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over initiative, is part of a joint mission with United States Department ofTransportation’s National Highway Traffic Administration. “We want Arkansans to understand it’s our first priority to keep people safe,” Colonel Bill Bryant, Director of the Arkansas State Police and the Governor’s Highway Safety Representative said. “No one gets a free pass; drunk drivers go to jail.” The program will continue through Labor Day weekend. You can help. Per state police, if you see a drunk driver on the road, call 9-1-1. A .08% Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) is enough to charge someone with being under the influence. If under
21 years old, only a .02% BAC is required.
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Fayetteville Man Sentenced for Criminal Conspiracy
Devin Center of Fayetteville plead not guilty to criminal conspiracy after he was found in the back of a U-Haul truck along with 30 others who police say were planning to riot a Pride Parade in Idaho. Center, 22, of Fayetteville was among those arrested in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho and charged with conspiracy to riot. On Monday, Aug. 15, Center appeared before a judge for the first time since his arrest, where he plead notguilty and was denied a public offender. Four men connected to the 31 who were arrested appeared in court Monday. All four men
pleaded not guilty to conspiracy to riot.
Operation Cross Country Human Trafficking Identifies Victims, Makes Arrests
During an enforcement campaign conducted over the past two weeks, the FBI and its Arkansas law enforcement partners identified and located 84 minor victims and rescued 37 actively missing children in a human trafficking operation dubbed “Operation Cross County XII.”According to a press release from the FBI Little Rock Field Office, this is the 13th iteration of the FBI-led nationwide operation focused on identifying and locating victims of sex trafficking. The campaign alsodevelops state and federal cases against individuals and criminal enterprises involved in both child sex trafficking and human trafficking.In addition to the identification and location of adolescent victims, the FBI and its partners located 141 adult victims of human trafficking across the nation. Special agents and investigators also identified or arrested 85 suspects with child sexual exploitation and human trafficking offenses. As part of Operation Cross Country XII, FBI special agents, intelligence analysts, victim specialists, and child adolescent forensic interviewers— working in conjunction with over 200 local, state, and federal partners and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC)— conducted 391 operations over a two week period.
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Branson Entertainers Remember Mel Tillis
More than a dozen local and nationally recognized entertainers took to the stage at the Copeland Theater at the Meadows on Monday, Aug. 8, to honor Country Music Hall of Famer Mel Tillis. Hosted on what would have been the country music legend’s 90th Birthday, Branson’s Tribute to MelTillis took place on the evening of the inaugural Mel Tillis Statesiders Day in Branson. Mel Tillis Statesiders Day was declared as Aug. 8, by the city of Branson and a proclamation was presented to the Tillis family by Branson Mayor Larry Milton at the Tuesday, July 26, Branson Board ofAldermen meeting. The concert, which was organized by Tillis’ grandson and Branson Alderman Marshall Howden, featured performances and/or on stage appearances by Mel Tillis Jr., Billy Yates, Clay Cooper, Doug Blackwoods, Brandon Mabe, CJ Newsom, Rick McEwen, Stevie Lee Woods, Kari Garrison, The Sons, Tammy & Tonya Bilyeu, Logan Allen, Trey Dees, Denny Yeary, Jody Madaras, Valerie Hill and JohnSchneider. “My family is forever grateful for the opportunity to perform in Branson all those years,” Howden said. “As a child I wouldn’t have been able to grow up with my grandpa around if it hadn’t been for Bransonkeeping him off the road and in his very own theatre. As the mayor and I continue this project of entertainer holidays we had to do something special for my grandpa.” All the proceeds are being donated to Branson Cares, which provides pediatric wheelchairs around the
world to children in need.
Mans Mobile App Alerts Wife of Motorcycle Crash
A father of two is recovering from serious injuries following a motorcycle crash. His wife has been there every step of the way after a mobile app alerted her about the crash as soon as it happened. Sarah Caine received an alert from the Life360 app just before 7 a.m. Saturday. Her husband, Tim Caine, had been out dropping his son off at football practice when he was involved in a motorcycle crash, KPHO/KTVK reports. “It just says, ‘Life360 detected sudden motion on Dad’s phone,’” Sarah Caine said. “‘This could be a result of a collision, hard braking or a dropped phone. We suggest that you call Dad to check on them.’” The “Dad” the app referred to is Tim Caine. He was five minutes from home when the crash happened, sending him off his motorcycle and 30 feet into the air, according to witnesses “When I called him and he didn’t answer, my first thought was ‘Maybe it just fell out of his pocket,’”Sarah Caine said. But using Life360′s GPS technology, Sarah Caine drove to her husband’s location and saw the scene of the crash. “So, I drove there over the canal, and there he was on the side of the road with people standing over him. I was able to see him before he got into the ambulance,” she said. Her husband later told her he was the victim of a hit-and-run crash. Tim Caine said he remembers seeing a car driving on the opposite side of the road that then dramatically turned in front of him. Witnesses said they saw him flying through the air after he slammed on his motorcycle brakes. Police say right now, they’re calling this a single-vehicle accident. “I don’t think he’s ever been through anything like this,” Sarah Caine said. Tim Caine suffered a broken collarbone, scapula and ribs, along with a collapsed lung, in the crash. He is recovering at the hospital. His wife said the past few days have been the hardest of her life, but she’s grateful she’s been there every step of the way, thanks to the app. “The ER nurse ... I told her what happened with the app, and she told me that app probably saved me about an hour or two of waiting to see where he was because they would’ve had to pull his information [and] emergency contacts,” Sarah Caine said. Tim Caine’s accident occurred just two weeks after he was laid off. The family has set up a GoFundMe to help with medical expenses.
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Walmart Second Quarter Better Than Expected
Walmart reported better-than-expected second-quarter results as more Americans looked to cut costs on groceries at the nation’s largest retailer in the face of surging inflation. Those rising prices, however, meant that customers were cutting back on non-necessary purchases.Walmart Inc. earned $5.15 billion, or $1.88 per share, or $1.77 excluding one-time costs and charges. That easily beat the $1.62 per share that Wall Street was looking for, according to FactSet. It also topped last year’s profit of $4.27 billion. Sales rose 8.4% to $152.86 billion, topping industry analyst projections. Sales at stores open at least a year rose 6.5% as more shoppers turned to Walmart for groceries. That followed a 3% increase in the first quarter. Online sale rose 12%, following a 1% increase in the previous quarter. “We’re pleased to see more customers choosing Walmart during this inflationary period, and we’re working hard to support them as they prioritize their spending,” said CEO Doug McMillon. McMillon, however, noted that strong sales were registered in groceries, which have lower margins, at a time when the company is cutting prices to get rid of excess inventory after a huge shift in howAmericans spend money this year. Like many big box retailers, Walmart benefited in the early days of the pandemic as shoppers splurged onfood and other necessities, particularly online. But shoppers are spending less on items that did well during the pandemic such as casual clothes and TVs when they focused on home activities. Surging inflation, which slowed last month but is still running at close to its highest level in four decades, is also presenting challenges for Walmart and other retailers as low-income shoppers cut back.
Razorbacks Ranked No 19 in Preseason AP Poll
The Arkansas Razorbacks were ranked No. 19 in the preseason Associated Press Top 25 poll released Monday. The Hogs are one of six Southeastern Conference teams in the Top 25. The others are Alabama, Georgia, Texas A&M, Kentucky, and Ole Miss. This is the first time the Razorbacks have been ranked in the preseason AP poll since the start of the 2015 season. The Hogs finished 8-5 that year, winning the Liberty Bowl against Kansas State. Arkansas was ranked No. 23 in the USA Today Coaches Poll released a week ago. Alabama is No. 1 in the preseason AP Top 25 for the second straight season. That is also the ninth time overall, second-most in poll history. The Crimson Tide received 54 of 63 first-place votes. Ohio State is No. 2 with six first-place votes. Defending national champion Georgia is third with three first-place votes. Clemson is No. 4 and Notre Dame rounds out the top five. The Tide’s preseason No. 1 ranking is the seventh in 15 years. Since the preseason rankings started in 1950, only Oklahoma has been No. 1
in the initial poll more than Alabama.
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08/16/2022
Arrest Reports: 08/16
Dylan J. Kositzke - Huntsville - 24 - hold for other agencyLoriann Latdrick - GF - 29 - no vehicle reg/lic. plates, no drivers licenseElias Rangel Juarez - BV - 39 - court commitmentAlton R. Russell - Harrison - 29 - FTA
Berryville Police Called to Several Accidents Recently
Berryville Police were called out August 2nd, a little after 6am to W. Trimble and CR404 for a two- vehicle accident. Involved was James Jones of Berryville, driving a 2010 Nissan and Stephen Duty of Eureka Springs, driving a 1999 Buick. The accident report indicated the Nissan pulled out of CR 404 into the path of the Buick. No injuries and no citations were issued. On August 4th, Police responded to W. Trimble and 62 Spur at 9pm to a two vehicle accident. The accident involved Jeremy Sampson of Oak Grove, driving a 2007 Kia and Donna Wear of Holiday Island, driving a 2019 Cadillac. The Kia was westbound on 62 Spur and the Cadillac was eastbound on Hwy. 62. The Kia entered the intersection and failed to yield to a red light and collided with the Cadillac. Also on the 4th of August, another 2-vehicle accident, this one at Eureka Street and Academy, involving Cooper Doss of Berryville, driving a 2003 Infiniti and Kaleigh Walker of Green Forest driving a 2020 Mitsubishi, The accident occurred when the Infinity made a left turn out of Eureka Ave./Hwy. 62 from Academy and failed to yield to the Mitsubishi. The other accident was August 5th, 2:37pm, at Springfield and Freeman Street. Involved was Kalyn Kropf, driving a 2003 Nissan and Timothy Rodriguez of Nixa, Mo., driving a 2018 Toyota. The Toyota was stopped behind traffic waiting for the light to change. The Nissan didn't stop in time and ran into the rear of the Toyota.
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FBI Arrests Human Trafficker
Agents from the FBI office in Fayetteville arrested an alleged human trafficker and found two victims, according to a news release the bureau sent. The FBI has worked with several local law enforcement agencies in Arkansas since Aug. 4. The team identified two victims and arrested one suspect, according to the release. They also apprehended three people who allegedly went or planned to travel to Northwest Arkansas to have illegal sexual conduct with minors. This was part of a nationwide campaign called Operation Cross Country XII. The FBI identified oarrested 85 people across the country during the campaign.
Springdale Boy Scout Adding Life Jackets to Beaver Lake Loaner Stations
Life Scout Benyamin Adams in Boy Scout Troop 107 of Springdale is planning to add life jacket loaner stations to 3 private marinas on Beaver Lake. "If I was going to do some sort of project, I'd really like to benefit the lake as I mean, it's just, there's so much community around it, so much happening," said Adams. "There's a big problem on Beaver Lake right now with a lot of people not wearing their life jackets and a lot of people don't understand the importance of wearing them while boating." The proposed stations will be locker-like cabinets that will store lifejackets for the boating public to borrow. So far, three private marinas have agreed to participate in the project: War Eagle, Horseshoe Bend, and Hickory Creek Marina. The U.S Coast Guard estimates that life jackets could have saved over 80 percent of boating fatality victims. The service project will help Adams achieve the highest ranking for a boy scout, Eagle Scout. His father, Jesse Adams, explained that Ben had come up with the idea 2 years ago. Jesse said that 9 months ago, Ben had begun the paperwork to make the stations a reality. The father explained that Ben had always been involved with anything in the water. "You know, ever since Ben was a small child, it was hard to keep him out of the water," said Jesse. "We've always known that water was going to be a big part of his life" "For me, it's just a project that will help me achieve a higher rank but to everybody else, it'll be hopefullya project that'll make a difference," said Ben. Ben hopes to launch the stations before the Summer of 2023 but still needs funding.
You can visit their gofundme to donate.
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New Department Established at U of A Fayetteville
Arkansas’ Sam M. Walton College of Business will now do so at the J.B. Hunt Transport Department of Supply Chain Management, the university and the company said Thursday. Representatives of both groups met at J.B. Hunt’s Lowell campus Thursday to mark the name change. The UA’s Board of Trustees voted to approve the change in late May. “Together, we are preparing future leaders who will grow with the industry to meet evolving supply chain challenges,” Shelley Simpson, president of J.B. Hunt said in a statement. J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc. also donated $1.5 million to the renamed department. The transportation and logistics company has given $7 million to the university to support supply chain study, according to a Thursday news release
Elvis Week Underway at Graceland
It’s been nearly 45 years since Elvis Presley passed away. Each year thousands of fans from all over the world mark the occasion with Elvis Week at Graceland. It’s a 10-million-dollar economic boost for the city, and thanks to a growing younger fan base, Memphis could see huge crowds for the annual event for years to come. “It’s my first Elvis week, and it’s been so much fun so far. We came in on Tuesday,” said 22-year-old college student Taylor Reed from Texas. “I mean, come on, younger Elvis. You can’t say he’s not super cute, his “Comeback Special. I love it and then his music, all the movies he’s been in and everything,” said Taylor. All around Graceland, you’ll find millennials and even younger enjoying the festivities. Many were born into the Elvis fandom. “Our great grandparents and our parents love Elvis, so we thought we would stop by,” said one Elvis fan. However, there’s another theory as to the sudden interest into a man who left this earth 45 years ago, a blockbuster movie that introduced the once international star to a whole new fan base. “Of course, it helped my excitement, but I bought my tickets back in February. I knew I was going back then, but just watching the movie and coming out so close to Elvis week it made me so excited to come,” said Reed. 20 to 25,000 fans are expected for this milestone Elvis week. Many have waited two years for the celebration. Last year, organizers held a hybrid Elvis week with
virtual and in-person activities.
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08/15/2022
Arrest Reports: 08/12 - 08/15
8-15-22Drew A. Gresham - ES - 30 - court committmentMatthew J. Jacob - BV - 47 - revocation on possessionWilliam Webb - BV - 36 - driving on suspended drivers license
8-14-22Aaron T. Anderson - GF - 34 - poss. meth or cocaine w/purpose, possession, possession of drug paraphernalia, habitual offender, no proof of liability insurance, expired registration, hold for Boone Co.Roberto Perma - GF - 54 - domestic batteryAlle Raisher - GF - 34 - public intox, poss. of open containerJay M. Rowan - Huntsville - 36 - hold for parole, FTA x 2David J. Storman - GF - 39 - FTAWade D. Sturgell - GF - 22 - driving on suspended drivers licenseAngela D. Swearingen - Cassville - 42 - Dwi, fleeing vehicle, reckless driving, resisting arrest, implied consentKristopher J. Trammell - HI - 33 - FTABilly R. Ward - Newport News, VA - 58 - hold for Taney County
8-13-22Adela M. Avila - GF - 21 - DWi, careless/prohibited driving, poss. of open container of open containerHeidi N. Gerlick - Lampe, Mo - 34 - revocation on original drug chqarges
8-12-22Franklin T. Edwards - GF - 43 - contempt of court, FTA, criminal impersonation, obsructing Gov operationsJoshua F. Gilliland - ES - 46 - court commitmentCarlos S. Ramirez - BV - 31 - DWI, refusal to submit to chemical test, no driver's license, careless/prohibited drivingWade D. Sturgell - GF - court commitmentLarry W. Walker - GF - 45 - DWI. driving left of centerKelly J. White - Huntsville - 39 - FTAJason L. Wilson - GF - 33 - court commitment
8-14-22Aaron T. Anderson - GF - 34 - poss. meth or cocaine w/purpose, possession, possession of drug paraphernalia, habitual offender, no proof of liability insurance, expired registration, hold for Boone Co.Roberto Perma - GF - 54 - domestic batteryAlle Raisher - GF - 34 - public intox, poss. of open containerJay M. Rowan - Huntsville - 36 - hold for parole, FTA x 2David J. Storman - GF - 39 - FTAWade D. Sturgell - GF - 22 - driving on suspended drivers licenseAngela D. Swearingen - Cassville - 42 - Dwi, fleeing vehicle, reckless driving, resisting arrest, implied consentKristopher J. Trammell - HI - 33 - FTABilly R. Ward - Newport News, VA - 58 - hold for Taney County
8-13-22Adela M. Avila - GF - 21 - DWi, careless/prohibited driving, poss. of open container of open containerHeidi N. Gerlick - Lampe, Mo - 34 - revocation on original drug chqarges
8-12-22Franklin T. Edwards - GF - 43 - contempt of court, FTA, criminal impersonation, obsructing Gov operationsJoshua F. Gilliland - ES - 46 - court commitmentCarlos S. Ramirez - BV - 31 - DWI, refusal to submit to chemical test, no driver's license, careless/prohibited drivingWade D. Sturgell - GF - court commitmentLarry W. Walker - GF - 45 - DWI. driving left of centerKelly J. White - Huntsville - 39 - FTAJason L. Wilson - GF - 33 - court commitment
War Eagle Mill Splitting Into Two Entities
War Eagle Mill, Inc. will split to become two entities, leading to some changes at the Benton County landmark. Conservation of the historical site and tourist destination will be under the jurisdiction of the existing War Eagle Mill entity owned by Elise Roenigk. Roenigk, who also owns the 1886 Crescent Hotel and Spa and Basin Park Hotel in Eureka Springs, bought the mill in 2004. Jack Moyer, vice president and general manager of the hotels, will lead the organization. "Passively, War Eagle Mill has long been part of our Crescent Hotel family," Moyer said. "Today, we welcome them fully and look forward to the challenge of protecting the mill and making things better for the stream and for the team." Sam Sputo will purchase the War Eagle Mill product line from Roenigk, according to Moyer. Sputo, as the new owner of the retail brand, will oversee the production and expansion of products like flours, soup mixes and cereals as well as jams, jellies, syrups, salsas and mustards. "There's a production side and a tourism side. It's a pretty clean break," Moyer said. "We want the production side to be fantastic because we will be selling the product. They want us to be fantastic because we're the image and likeness of the brand. We felt like we should have experts on both sides of it." War Eagle Mill will be closed Monday through Aug. 31 for facilit updates and changes to its food service, according to Moyer. Work done during that time will include repairing and repainting the mill, adding picnic space, reorganizing parking, redeveloping outdoor seating that overlooks War Eagle Creek and documenting the legacy of the site with historical markers. Restarting managed access to the creek, upgrading outdoor bathroom facilities, adding a recycling program, reducing waste, maintaining trees and cutting down invasive plants will also be on the business' project list for those two weeks. "We're really looking at the environmental consciousness of things. We'll have an environmental engineer on site this week," Moyer said. "We want to protect not only the mill, but the site we sit on." Future river access will have a landing area, a load-out beach, paid parking, vending machines and restroom and trash facilities. Food services at the mill will move from a full-service restaurant to a fast-casual eatery selling War Eagle Mill products, Moyer said. The style of the new dining space will be
similar to a Panera Bread store, he said.
Crisis Stabilization Unit to Reopen This Month
The Northwest Arkansas Crisis Stabilization Unit (CSU) will reopen this month. According to a UAMS press release the CSU initially opened in the summer of 2019 but closed in June 2021. This time the unit will be under the supervision of University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) personnel. One of four such units in Arkansas, the Northwest Arkansas CSU offers “an alternative to jail or hospital emergency rooms for those in the midst of a mental health crisis.” The 16-bed facility will operate as a partnership between Washington County and UAMS, providing law enforcement officials in Washington, Benton, Baxter, Boone, Marion, Newton, Carroll and Madison counties with an option for helping those with psychiatric conditions. UAMS also oversees the Pulaski County Regional Crisis Stabilization Unit in Little Rock, which opened in 2018. Northwest Arkansas CSU Program Director Kristen McAllister and Washington County Judge Joseph K. Wood is scheduled to speak at a re-opening event on Monday, August 15 at 1 p.m. at 105 N. Mill Avenue in Fayetteville.
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Governors Ask Feds to Lift Covid-19 Vaccine Mandate for Travelers
Seventeen Republican governors, including Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson and Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt, signed a letter addressed to President Joe Biden urging him to lift the COVID-19 vaccine mandate for international travelers entering the U.S. The mandate was put in place in October of 2021. The letter states that even though other countries have reduced COVID-19 restrictions to enter the country, the U.S. has not. Adults traveling to the U.S. are required to show proof of vaccination. The governors said that Biden should "end the requirement that all non-U.S. citizen travelers entering the United States be fully vaccinated against COVID-19". The letter claims that the restriction is negatively impacting the supply chain and hurting the national economy. Mask
mandates and testing requirements for travelers
entering the U.S. were lifted earlier this year.
State Gets $24M in Infrastructure Funds
On August 11, U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg announced that the Biden-Harris Administration has awarded $24.6 million to Arkansas from the Rebuilding America's Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) program. The grant will help move forward on projects that “modernize roads, bridges, transit, rail, ports, and intermodal transportation and make our transportation systems safer, more accessible, more affordable, and more sustainable,” according to a Department of Transportation press release. This year’s total allocations nationwide include more than $2.2 billion thanks to the President’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which provides an additional $7.5 billion over five years for the program to help meet the strong demand to help projects get moving across the country. “We are proud to support so many outstanding infrastructure projects in communities large and small, modernizing America’s transportation systems to make them safer, more affordable, more accessible, and more sustainable,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. “Using funds from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, this year we are supporting more projects than ever before.” Projects were evaluated on several criteria, including safety, environmental sustainability, quality of life, economic competitiveness and opportunity, partnership and collaboration, innovation, state of good repair, and mobility and community connectivity. Within these areas, the Department considered how projects will improve accessibility for all travelers, bolster supply chain efficiency, and support racial equity and economic growth, especially in historically disadvantaged communities and areas of persistent poverty. Arkansas’s award will support the City of Conway’s Connect Conway. This project will develop approximately 15 miles of infrastructure that consists of multi-use paths, sidepaths, bridges, cycle tracks, and trailheads, removing physical barriers and
connecting west and east Conway.
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Pollinators Declining Endangering Food Supply
A third of the food we eat is at risk because of the climate crisis endangering butterflies and bees. International scientists recently announced the monarch butterfly is dangerously close to extinction. Some wildlife experts said losing pollinators, including butterflies, would affect about 30% of the food supply. The Food and Drug Administration said apples, melons, cranberries, broccoli and almonds are among the foods most susceptible to the pollinator decline. Scientists said you can help pollinators rebound by planting gardens with native wildlife and using less pesticide and other chemicals around your home.
Hudson Clark Preparing with the Razorbacks for Season's Start
Redshirt junior Hudson Clark and the Razorbacks will put on full pads for the first time today as they continue to prepare for the 2022 season. Clark, 6-2, 183, was originally a preferred walk-on from Highland Park (Texas), but earned a scholarship for his three-interception performance against Ole Miss in 2020. In 2021, Clark played in 12 games with four starts. He had 22 tackles, one for loss and a pass breakup. Clark is one of four cornerbacks Dominique Bowman said Monday was competing for a starting spot. Clark just wants to help the Razorbacks anyway he can. “My role is just wherever coach plays me,” Clark said. “Special teams, whether he starts me or not, it really doesn’t matter to me. Just kind of doing my job, doing what I’m coached. That’s basically it.” It didn’t take Clark long to make an impact this preseason. The first practice he picked off a pass from KJ Jefferson. That interception seems to have set the tone for the defensive backs this preseason. Arkansas will open the season on Saturday, Sept. 3, hosting Cincinnati at 2:30 p.m. and televised on ESPN. Hudson Clark is the grandson of former Berryville Coach Ronnie Clark and JoAnn Clark.
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State Capitol Week in Review
From Senator Bob Ballinger
August 12, 2022
LITTLE ROCK
The legislature concluded a quick, three-day special session after approving income tax cuts that will save 1.6 million Arkansas taxpayers about $500 million. The tax savings will come mainly from moving up the effective date of previously adopted tax reductions. Last December the legislature lowered the top income tax rate over four years, so that it would be 4. percent in 2025. Thanks to legislation enacted during the special session, that reduction becomes effective this year. In similar fashion, the legislature moved up the effective date of previously approved tax reductions that lowered the top rate for corporations over three years, to 5.3 percent in 2025. The top rate will take effect in 2023. For tax year 2022 the top rate will remain at 5.9 percent. Moving up the effective date will save businesses in Arkansas about $18.6 million this fiscal year. The savings increase the following year to $27.8 million. Another provision enacted during the special session will save Arkansas businesses $29.4 million this year. The legislature approved a change in how they can claim deductions for depreciation and expensingof property, making the Arkansas tax code similar to depreciation schedules in section 179 of federal tax Codes. This will allow Arkansas businesses to claim deductions for the purchase of new or used equipment, up to about $1 million, in a single year. Previously, state tax law limited the amount that could be deducted and required deductions to be spread out over the life of the equipment. Individuals with incomes up to $87,000 will get a $150 nonrefundable tax credit. Married taxpayers who file separately may each claim a $150 credit. Married taxpayers filing jointly with net income up to $174,000 will receive a $300 nonrefundable income tax credit. Those income tax credits will save Arkansas families more than $156 million in Fiscal Year 2023. Even after passage of the tax cuts, the state government is on course to have a budget surplus of about $400 million at the end of the fiscal year, according to the bill’s sponsors. Also during the special session, the legislature authorized the state Education Department to use $50 million from reserve funds for grants to school districts that need school safety upgrades. If necessary, the legislature will consider additional funding of school safety measures during the 2023 regular session, which begins in January. The Arkansas School Safety Commission is finalizing a list of recommendations to protect students and staff in the event of a school shooter. The commission recommends that an armed school resources officer be present in all buildings at all times when there are students. Another recommendation is that all school doors be locked, with electronic controls. Teachers should be able to lock classroom doors from the inside, the commission recommended. Security cameras, accessible to school staff and law enforcement, as well as two-way radios to connect school personnel with local police officers, are recommended. Some lawmakers wanted to consider pay raises for teachers. However, the governor did not put that issue on the call for the special session so salary increases for teachers will be an issue during the 2023 regular session.