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10/20/2021

Gov. Hutchinson's Weekly Covid-19 Taskforce Update
There was new guidance on quarantine procedures for K-12 students...
Berryville City Council Report Highlights
Saunders Museum will be closing for the season on November 6th. That week of Nov. 1st through the 6th is free admission into the Museum and area residents are encouraged to take advantage of it. Chief Robert Bartos gave the monthly acitivity report for September.....The next meeting of the City Council will be Nov. 2nd at 6pm.
Letter from Doug Blevins to Bobcat Staff:
Your Bobcat Band has officially made the "turn around"!
After a pandemic year, we attended four contests and earned a superior rating each time. Last night the band was awarded first division superior ratings from all three judges at the Regional assessment. This is the first time they have done this since 2015. I have been teaching for 26 years and this transformation was one of the best to watch. There were senior boys with tears in their eyes as this group of kids have not experienced this since they've been in band. This is the 3rd "re-build" of my career and I will say this is the most special of all of them! I am so proud of these kids and I hope you will give them some love today by encouraging them, congratulating them and even a high five! Last night those kids held their head high with pride and rightly so! It takes a village and YOU, the staff at Berryville are high in that village! Thank you!!!! Huge THANKS to Mr. Andy Sinay and Mr. Hunter Rivett for volunteering many hours in helping these kids reach this goal!
John Deere Strike Affecting Arkansas Farmers
Nearly 50,000 farms in the Natural State rely on machinery like tractors and combines to get their crops from soil to store, but thanks in part to a unionized John Deere manufacturers strike, that equipment is getting harder to find – and even harder to accurately fix. Some dealerships have already been seeing delays, from supplies and parts for repairs – to the complete machines themselves. With a harvest season just kicking off, farmers are worried about the possibility of a shortage of equipment, something that could mean a total stop to their cash flow if something breaks without a replacement. Those at ASU Beebe know a thing or two about tractors; they have a unique program that trains students how to keep the equipment running and work at an agricultural equipment dealership. Their specialty and partner is John Deere, now in short supply. The university has even experienced a delay for itself. “Our tractor’s been back-ordered now twice, and it may yet still be a couple of months,” explained Roger Moore, CFO of ASU Beebe. Moore says the issue is two-fold; the strike itself and international supply shortages that mean vital components aren’t being sent to manufacturing sites in the U.S. The concern is if a machine breaks during harvest, the clock starts ticking before it’s too late. For the John Deere agriculture technology students, that means working with what they have; newer John Deere models are sent to them by the company on loan. Advanced instructor Stephen Yokley explains that usually, the organization replaces the tractors every 300 days once training is complete. But now with shortages and delays, the equipment can be kept by the college indefinitely until new supplies are produced. But the workaround isn’t something smaller farms have. Their only option is to plan ahead for the season. Yokley recommends, “anything they think may fail through harvest season or they want repaired before next planting season, order the parts now.”
Crowds Expected for Fall Color in Newton County
Officials in Newton County are preparing for an increase in traffic over the next few weeks along the Buffalo River. The area typically sees large crowds when the leaves change and the elk become active. The Buffalo National River runs right through the heart of Newton County. With a variety of activities to do, it brings several outdoor enthusiasts to the area. Howard and Mary Nordyke of Springfield frequently visit. ”We come down quite often, usually once or twice a year. We really enjoy the horseback riding,” said Howard Nordyke. “The facilities are really nice we can hook right up with our trailer. Often we just drive down to sightsee. We’ve noticed a lot more people than usual down here. We really don’t know why other than that it’s fall and people are looking at the colors of the trees.“ ”Economically, it’s a huge impact and it also helps build a fun, vibrant community that we are very proud of,” said Newton County Sheriff Glenn Wheeler. But all that extra traffic can bring issues on the already winding roads. ”The big thing we have is they park in the highway, or park partially in the highway so they can look at the elk,” said Sheriff Wheeler. “That’s a big problem when a semi is coming from the other way or a farmer is trying to get through with a piece of equipment or an ambulance or fire truck needs to get through.” The Newton County Sheriff’s Office is reminding drivers to park in appropriate places, meaning you need to stay out of private driveways and also be wary of construction in the Boxley area towards Mossville. Construction is expected to be completed by this Friday, but delays may be anywhere from 20-30 minutes. ”We love having visitors showing up, we just want them to be safe and want them to be respectful,” said Sheriff Wheeler.
First Full Moon of Fall and Orionids Meteor Shower This Week
The first full moon of fall is set to peak this week, and it will also closely coincide with the second meteor shower of the month. October’s full moon is called the “Hunter’s Moon.” It’s going to reach peak illumination at 9:57 a.m. Central Time Wednesday, Oct. 20, according to NASA. But even though its peak is during daylight, the moon will still appear full from Monday night through Thursday morning. Why is it called the “Hunter’s Moon?” According to the Farmers Almanac, October’s full moon gets its nickname from the hunting season. Other names for October’s full moon include the “Blood Moon” and the “Sanguine Moon.” Some say this full moon appears more orange in color. It also appears bigger than other full moons because of an optical illusion. Another spectacle this month for astronomy lovers is the Orionid meteor shower, the second meteor shower of the month after the rare Draconids peaked a few weeks ago. The Orionids, which usually produce about 20 meteors per hour, are set to reach their peak Wednesday night, Oct. 20, into early Thursday morning, Oct. 21. But the meteor shower will have a bit of competition. The bright light of the full moon will likely make it difficult to see some of the dimmer shooting stars. Still if you want to try to catch a glimpse, experts say the best time to search for meteors is during the second half of Wednesday night, specifically the hours before dawn Thursday. Astronomers recommend focusing on darker areas of the sky and avoid looking at sources of light such as the moon or a cell phone. And if you miss the Orionids, don’t stress. There are three meteor showers to look forward to in November.
Christmas Tree Shortage Possible This Year
Those looking to purchase a real Christmas tree this season are urged by experts to do so as early as possible. Christmas tree farmers have reported to various news outlets that due to scorching temperatures and droughts across the Pacific Northwest, trees of all sizes (from seedlings on up) were compromised this year. A lot of the most popular holiday trees can also take between eight and 12 years to grow to the correct height, so this holiday season won’t be the only one affected by fewer trees. The U.S. Department of Agriculture confirmed in a report that Christmas tree acreage overall (much of which is in Oregon) has fallen by 24% due to wildfires and other issues over the last five years, causing price increases. It’s important to note, however, that Americans have increasingly chosen to put up fake trees in their homes, with the American Christmas Tree Association (ACTA) reporting that only 15% of households had a live tree during last year’s festivities. Due to supply chain disruptions, artificial trees are expected to be more expensive this year as well. “We hope that every person who wants a Christmas tree will find their perfect tree this year,” said ACTA’s Jami Warner in a statement. “If I can give one piece of advice to consumers right now, it is to find and buy your Christmas tree early. “

10/19/2021

Covid-19 Update
New figures Monday showed trends for COVID-19 cases in Arkansas continue to decline, though health officials are also reporting lower trends in the numbers of vaccinations given around the state. The Arkansas Department of Health data showed that active cases were down by 617 to 5,952 in the state. There were 142 new cases of the virus reported Monday, moving the state’s total during the pandemic to 507,098. Comparing the seven-day average of active cases to last week, the average is down by more than 1,000 cases, while the average for new cases is down 100 cases from the prior week. There was an uptick in some of the hospital-related metrics, with an increase of 15 patients being hospitalized with the virus, taking the active count to 477. The number of patients on ventilators went up by 12 to 145, while the number in ICU care dropped by two to 228. Health officials also reported two more deaths due to the virus, which sets the total for the state at 8,202. The ADH also reported 1,544 new COVID-19 vaccine doses were administered in Arkansas in the last 24 hours. That figured moved the seven-day rolling average for new vaccinations down, with the average down by more than 1,600 compared to a week earlier. The number of fully immunized Arkansans is now at 1,372,695 with another 285,393 being partially vaccinated.
Green Forest Man Sentenced for Luring Teens Online
A Green Forest man was sentenced last week to 180 months in prison, followed by 15 yearrs of supervised release on one count of using social media to entice a minor to engage in sexual activity and one count of sex trafficking of children. The Berryville Police Department was notified in August 2020 that Jason Daniel Vasquez, 22, had contacted a 14 year old girl via Snapchat and had met with the minor on different occasions to engage in sexual acts, according to court documents. Vasquez was arrested by Berryville police after he arrived at a set location under the belief he was there to engage in sexual acts with the minor. After Vasquez's arrest, law enforcement located messages on his phone with another juvenile female. Vasquez offered to provide the girl tobacco products in exchange for sexual acts. The Berryville Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations, Fayetteville, investigated the case. The case was a joint prosecution by the Western and Eastern districts of Arkansas. The case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carly Marshall and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristin Bryant prosecuted the case. U.S. District Judge P.K. Holmes III presided over the sentencing hearing in the U.S. District Court in Fort Smith.
Founding Member of C.C. Senior Center to be Honored Friday
Theodore (Ted) Liley was one of the founding members of the Carroll County Senior Center. Ted was presented a Key to the City of Berryville by Mayor Tim McKinney on March 12, 2020. Ted Liley passed away January 27, 2021. On Friday, October 22nd at 11:40am the family of Ted Liley will present his memorial flag to the Carroll County Senior Center. Lunch will be served immediately following the presentation and the community is invited to join with Senior Center staff and clients to celebrate Ted’s memory. *A mask or face covering is required while inside the Senior Center.
Berryville Police Accident Reports
On October 8th, Berryville Police responded to S. Springfield and South Main to a two-vehicle accident. Rachelle Blair of Cameron, Oklahoma was westbound on S. Main in a 1995 Buick when a 2006 Kia, driven by Gloria Grady of Green Forest, while making a left turn off of S. Springfield onto S. Main, struck the Buick. Both drivers claimed to have the green light. There were no witnesses. Another accident involved Peyton Orellana of Berryville, driving a 2012 Toyota and Kelly Strickland of Berryville, driving a 2019 Dodge. The Dodge was stopped at the stop sign at W. College and W. Trimble. The Toyota slowed to a stop behind the Dodge but struck the bumper of the Dodge. No injuries or citations were issued.
Harrison Looking to Restore Crooked Creek
A plan is in the works to remove a lake alongside downtown Harrison and restore Crooked Creek as a free-flowing stream. Mayor Jerry Jackson said the Arkansas Department of Transportation has offered to remove a 10-foot-tall weir, or low-head dam, that created Lake Harrison and restore Crooked Creek to something more like the natural state it resembled in 1961. He said that work will cost about $2.2 million. Also, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission has offered to provide technical assistance and some funding for stream shaping, Jackson wrote in a column that was posted on the city of Harrison's Government Facebook page and published in the Harrison Daily-Times. "We can restore Crooked Creek," he wrote. "We can do it safely, and we can afford it. I strongly recommend we take on this project. "Over the years I have stayed in many small towns that had creeks or rivers running through their downtown area, and these are always the heartbeat of the community." But first there will be a public meeting at 6:30 p.m., Oct. 26, at the John Paul Hammerschmidt Center on North Arkansas College's South Campus, said Wade Phillips, Harrison's city engineer. Then the Harrison City Council will decide the fate of Crooked Creek. Phillips said the public and City Council must be on board for the project to happen.
ARDOT Debuts Its New Anti-Litter Campaign
The Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) debuted its new anti-litter campaign, Keep It Clean, Arkansas, at the Arkansas State Fair. According to ARDOT, Arkansas has the 12th largest highway system in the nation with more than 16,000 miles of roadway to maintain and keep litter-free. ARDOT’s Adopt-A-Highway (AAH) program helps address litter by allowing volunteers such as individuals, groups and organizations to pick up trash along the highway. There are more than 900 AAH groups across the state, but more are needed to keep up with the ongoing effort to keep Arkansas clean. The new Keep It Clean, Arkansas campaign focuses on educating the public about the long-term damage caused by litter on the highway. “Even with that many volunteers, ARDOT still spends an average of $5 million each year picking up trash,” said Holly Butler, Executive Assistant for ARDOT’s Public Information Office. “Trash doesn’t just stay on the side of the road. It also gets washed into nearby rivers, lakes and streams, and pollutes waterways and aquatic habitats. Things we consider harmless trash can take hundreds of years to decompose. When you look at the big picture, the litter problem is overwhelming.” According to ARDOT, for every one mile of road, Arkansas averages 2,000 pieces of trash, which adds up to almost 32-million pieces of litter each year.
USDA Audit Can Help Small AR Farms Expand to Wholesale
By completing the Good Agricultural Practices certification, small Arkansas farmers can expand their clientele beyond local markets and roadside stands....
North Little Rock Police Officer to Receive Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award
North Little Rock Police Officer Tommy Norman will be receiving Joe Biden's Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award in November. This year is the 2nd annual ceremony for this award. It takes place in Houston, Texas on Friday, November 12 from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. Officer Norman expressed his excitement for the event on his Instagram, where he said, "What a huge honor! Excited to be in Houston next month to attend this event!" Norman will be joined by other prominent figures such as Miss Houston 2021 Priscilla Londona and Mya Smith-Edmonds. There will be a special performance by Victory Brinker from America's Got Talent To purchase tickets to the event, visit presidential-awards.com.
U of A Basketball Begins November 9th
For the first time since the 2007-2008 season, the University of Arkansas men’s basketball team will begin the season in the Top 25. The Razorbacks are ranked No. 16. This comes after their run to the Elite Eight last season before falling to eventual National Champion, Baylor. Eric Musselman begins his third season on the Hill after making a number of offseason moves in the transfer portal. He added a number of transfers to the Razorback roster to complement returners like National Sixth Man of the Year, J.D. Notae. Arkansas begins the season on Nov. 9 at Bud Walton Arena. The Hogs will host Mercer at 7 p.m.

10/18/2021

Covid-19 Update
The number of COVID-19 active cases is down Sunday after going up Saturday. Active cases were down by 210 down to 6,559 in the state. There were 383 new cases of the virus reported Sunday, moving the state’s total during the pandemic to 506,956. The number of people in Arkansas hospitals due to complications from COVID-19 remain unchanged on Sunday at 462. There was no change of the number of Arkansans on ventilators either, with the number remaining at 133. Health officials also reported five more deaths due to the virus, which sets the total for the state at 8,200. There were 2,632 new COVID-19 vaccine doses were administered in Arkansas in the last 24 hours. The number of fully immunized Arkansans is now 1,373,068 with more than 285,513 Arkansans being partially vaccinated. “We continue to see declining new and active cases throughout the state,” Gov. Asa Hutchinson said in a Tweet. “Vaccine numbers remain in the typical range for the weekend. The sooner we get vaccine doses into the arms of Arkansans, the sooner we can see a further decline of hospitalizations and deaths from COVID-19.”
Search Continues for Couple Wanted for Boone County Shooting
Several law enforcement agencies continue to search for a man and a woman wanted for questioning in a deadly Boone County shooting. It’s unclear when the shooting happened, though authorities first announced a homicide investigation was launched Thursday night. The Boone County Sheriff’s Office has identified Tim Blackburn as the victim. Investigators say Jason Lee Stockstill, 49, ran from law enforcement in the Buffalo National River area earlier this week. Searcy County Sheriff Kenny Cassell located Stockstill’s vehicle on U.S. 65 in St. Joe. After giving chase, Stockstill bailed from the vehicle and ran into the woods. Authorities believe Stockstill may be accompanied by Heather Dawn Scallion, 38, in the Buffalo National River area. “This person is considered dangerous,” said Searcy County Sheriff Kenny Cassell. “Please keep your house and vehicles locked and keep an eye out for him at all times.” Cassell, who is heading the search, said numerous agencies searched throughout the last few days using tracking dogs and drones. Authorities are also looking for a truck that possibly belonged to the shooting victim. Anyone with any information on Stockstill or his location is asked to call the Searcy County Sheriff’s Office crime tip hotline at 870-448-2340. Assisting the Searcy County Sheriff’s Office in the search are members of the Arkansas State Police, Marshall Police Department, Boone County Sheriff’s Department, Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, Federal Park Service, 20th Judicial Task Force, Boone County Task Force, and tracking dogs from the North Central Prison Unit in Calico Rock.
Arkansas State Fair Sets All-time Single Day Attendance
The Arkansas State Fair set an all-time single day attendance record Saturday with over 93,000. Interim general manager Anne Marie Doramus said, “Perfect weather and a tremendous entertainment line-up attracted a record number of guests to our event.” The previous single-day attendance record was 91,003 set in 2018. Record crowds enjoyed free attractions, an expanded carnival midway and larger parking areas that handled the crowds efficiently. The fair’s Vaccinate Arkansas Main Stage hosted hip hop artist Bone Thugs-N-Harmony and entertained a full-capacity audience in the newly designed concert area. Tonight’s concert on the Vaccinate Arkansas Main Stage features R&B band Bel Biv Devoe at 7 p.m. 4H and livestock exhibitions, creative arts competitions and the coveted Fair Queen and talent show events continue throughout today. A full schedule of events is available at www.ArkansasStateFair.com. The Arkansas State Fair, the state’s largest event, continues through Sunday, Oct. 24.
Three Dead in Ft. Smith - Police Officer Injured
Around 6:20 a.m. Sunday, October 17, Fort Smith Police Department received a 911 call reporting a disturbance on Tilles Ave. A FSPD officer arrived on the scene and found Christofer Conner, 40, beating a 15-year-old male in the face and head with a brick. The officer ordered Conner to stop and after Conner initially appeared to comply, the officer approached him with handcuffs. Conner took out what police describe as an “edged weapon,” and sliced the officer’s throat. The officer fired two shots at Conner, killing him. The teen was taken to the hospital where he was declared dead. He reportedly sustained multiple stab wounds and blunt force trauma. Police were able to later identify the child as Conner’s son. After the encounter with Conner, officers found another victim and evidence of a violent attack inside a home at 2819 Tilles Ave. Julia Marie Moore, 42, was found dead inside the home with multiple stab wounds. A five-year-old child was also found in the home and taken to safety. That child is now in the custody of family members. Police Chief Danny Baker credits officers’ quick response for saving the young child’s life. The injured officer underwent emergency surgery and is currently in stable condition recovering at an undisclosed location.
Multistate Outbreak of Salmonella Includes Arkansas and Missouri
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has yet to identify the source of a multistate outbreak of salmonella infections as confirmed cases continue to climb across the country. According to the CDC, a total of 592 cases across 36 states have been linked to the outbreak as of Thursday with Arkansas reporting 12 cases. The actual number of cases is “likely much higher” than 592, the CDC notes, because many sickened individuals often recover without seeking medical care or testing. For the same reason, the outbreak may also extend to more than 36 states. As of Thursday, no deaths had been linked to the outbreak, but at least 116 had been hospitalized. Illnesses linked to this specific strain of Salmonella Oranienburg began sickening people as early as May 31, according to Thursday’s update. The infections have been confirmed in children as young as 1 and adults through the age of 97. The CDC has yet to identify a food source linked to the outbreak. In a previous update in mid-September, officials said this strain was found inside a takeout condiment cup that contained cilantro, lime and onions. At the time, the CDC said it was not possible to determine which ingredient or component was contaminated because the takeout container contained other foods. The CDC has not released any further comment on this finding in subsequent updates. As the source has not been identified, the CDC is asking the public to follow all applicable food safety measures when washing, cooking or eating foods that carry a risk of food poisoning. Cases have been reported in the following 36 states including Arkansas with 12 cases and Missouori with 10.
Barry County Missouri Seeing More Domestic Assault Charges Than Ever
The number of calls for domestic assault in Barry County is on the rise. The sheriff’s office says it’s seeing more calls in the last six months than ever before. Barry County Sheriff Danny Boyd say he’s seeing a 40-45% increase in those calls. Sheriff Boyd says his office is getting about three or four domestic calls per shift per day. ”Prior to that, we averaged maybe one or two domestics every three or four days,” Sheriff Boyd says. “Weekends of course, you have a higher volume.” Sheriff Boyd believes COVID-19 played a big role in this rise. “Some folks losing their jobs through the pandemic, I think that also affected the increase of domestics,” says Sheriff Boyd. The Victim Center’s director of development, Shelly Drymon, says it takes a lot for a victim to come forward. Drymon says that’s why it’s important for them to think of a safety plan. She says the most dangerous time for a victim is when they’re starting the leave the abuser. The sheriff’s office is short seven deputies, leaving the sheriff and his under-sheriff to fill in the gaps. The result is leaving deputies busy and burnt out, often already behind on calls before their shift starts. Sheriff Boyd says those domestic calls pose the most danger for deputies.
Shortage of Microchips Problematic for Many Businesses
The Better Business Bureau is warning of a microchip shortage that could leave you with fewer gifts under the Christmas tree this year. This means electronics, toys and some other products will be in short supply this holiday season — if they’re not already. The computer chip shortage has been one of the most far-reaching, since the chips are a critical component in automobiles and other manufactured goods. In April, the Associated Press reported that the shortage has been rippling through various markets since last year, making it difficult for schools to buy enough laptops for remote learning and creating a scramble to find the latest video game consoles. Bloomberg reported Tuesday that the shortage could cause a cut in production of the iPhone 13. According to the BBB, the shortage could also result in fewer holiday deals and higher-than-normal prices. The agency recommends that you get your holiday shopping done soon or risk not being able to find that perfect holiday gift. Black Friday could even be too late, the agency said. Blackwell explained that the microchip shortage affects even the simplest electronic items, such as toys with lights and sounds. The shortage is compounded by a lack of workers, floating traffic jams, a stressed trucking industry and factory backlogs.
Halloween Sales Could Be Record Breaker
Retail forecasters are calling for record Halloween sales this year as consumers try to leave covid-19 fears behind. But the pandemic's effect on the supply chain means finding just the right costume or fright prop might be a challenge for some this year. The National Retail Federation's annual survey projects Halloween sales of $10.14 billion, a record and a large jump when compared with $8.05 billion in 2020. Sales last year slumped when covid-19 curtailed traditional Halloween activities like parties and trick-or-treating and made consumers fearful about the future. The retail group said Halloween celebration plans this year will increase compared with last year and are close to pre-pandemic levels. About 65% of Americans plan to celebrate Halloween in some form or fashion, up from 58% last year and close to 68% in 2019 before covid-19 disrupted the country. Average consumer spending on the holiday is also on the rise, up $10 to $102.74 per person for costumes, candy, decorations and even greeting cards. Households with children are expected to spend nearly $150 on the holiday, twice as much on average as households without children, according to the study by Prosper Insights &. Analytics.
State Capitol Week in Review
From Senator Bob Ballinger
Earlier this year 185 companies in Arkansas were removed from the assigned risk plan and got coverage in the voluntary market, saving them on average 5.35 percent in premiums. In 2020 Arkansas had the lowest loss costs in the region, per each $100 of payroll. It was 50 cents per $100, compared to a regional average of 69 cents and a national average of 91 cents. The cost of premiums in Arkansas is stable or declining because of declines in loss costs. In the early 1990s workers’ comp insurance was about to become too expensive for many employers to afford. Annual rate increases were in the double digits. For example, premiums went up by 15 percent and 18 percent in 1991 and 1992. The legislature passed Act 796 of 1993, and the effect on the market was clear and significant, according to the Insurance Department’s most recent annual report. Anticipated rate increases in 1993 and 1994 did not occur. It was the first time in 10 years that rates did not go up. The Insurance Department reached the conclusion that the voluntary market in Arkansas would possibly have disappeared without Act 796, leaving the assigned risk pool as the only market for workers’ comp insurance. The act created a division within the Insurance Department assigned to investigate fraud, and set financial penalties for fraudulently making workers’ comp claims. According to the Insurance Department report, “before the passage of Act 796 of 1993, there had never been a criminal prosecution in Arkansas for workers’ compensation fraud committed by employees, employers or healthcare providers.” In 2005 the division’s authority was expanded to investigate all forms of insurance fraud and it was renamed the Criminal Investigation Division of the Insurance Department. In 2020 the Division got 40 referrals, of which 20 were investigated. One case was referred to local prosecutors, but it was subsequently closed for lack of evidence. Since the Division was created in 1993, it has referred 167 cases for prosecution, resulting in 123 convictions. In three cases the defendant was acquitted and in all the remaining cases the charges were not filed by prosecutors. In cases in which there is not sufficient evidence to prosecute, often the threat of prosecution is motivation for the parties to settle out of court, according to the Insurance Department. The overwhelming majority of cases investigated by the Division are for other forms of insurance fraud. Only 3.5 percent of its cases are investigations of workers’ comp fraud.

10/15/2021

Covid-19 Update
The number of patients hospitalized in Arkansas due to COVID-19 continued to decline Thursday, even as the number of active cases in the state ticked up. Data from the Arkansas Department of Health showed 26 fewer hospitalized cases, bringing the active count to 505. There are 243 COVID-19 patients in ICU care and 153 patients on ventilators, a decline of 10 from the previous day in both categories. Over the last 11 days, Arkansas has seen continuous drops in hospitalizations, with the 7-day average for cases Thursday being 100 less than just a week before. Gov. Asa Hutchinson lauded the drop in hospitalizations and used the development to continue to encourage Arkansans to get vaccinated. Active cases increase for the first time in four days, going up 118 to 6,820. There were 781 new cases of the virus reported Thursday, moving the state’s total during the pandemic to 505,297. While Thursday did see a bump in active cases, the 7-day trend is still down more than 1,600 from last week. Health officials also reported 10 more deaths due to the virus, which sets the total for the state at 8,176. More than 6,369 new COVID-19 vaccine doses were administered in Arkansas in the last 24 hours. The number of fully immunized Arkansans went up to 1,367,271, with an added 286,008 Arkansans being partially vaccinated. Children 11-17 saw the biggest increase in cases of 119, while adults 25-34 were right behind that with 118 cases in the last day.
Moderna Booster Approved by FDA - Waiting on CDC Approval
U.S. health advisers said Thursday that some Americans who received Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine should get a half-dose booster to bolster protection against the virus. The panel of advisers to the Food and Drug Administration voted unanimously to recommend a booster shot for seniors, adults with other health problems, jobs or living situations that put them at increased risk for COVID-19. The recommendation is non-binding but it’s a key step toward expanding the U.S. booster campaign to millions more Americans. Many people who got their initial Pfizer shots at least six months ago are already getting a booster after the FDA authorized their use last month. As for the dose, initial Moderna vaccination consists of two 100-microgram shots. But Moderna says a single 50-microgram shot should be enough for a booster. The agency convened its experts Thursday and Friday to weigh in on who should get boosters and when for people that received the Moderna and Johnson & Johnson shots earlier this year. The FDA will use its advisers’ recommendations in making final decisions for boosters from both companies. Assuming a positive decision, there’s still another hurdle: Next week, a panel convened by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will offer more specifics on who should get one.
Taxes Due Today
It's that time of year again when state, personal and real estate property taxes are due. Arkansans must pay these taxes by Friday, Oct. 15. These taxes are used to help support schools, cities, roads, jails and county expenses based on millage rates set by local governments and voters. These taxes are about 1% of the value of your home, car and other items that you may own. Arkansans can pay online or at your local county collector's office. You can visit your county assessor's website for more details.
Area Deputies Looking for Two Persons of Interest
Deputies with the Boone County Sheriff's Departments are searching for two persons of interest allegedly involved in a vehicle theft connected to a shooting. On Thursday (Oct. 14), Boone County Sheriff Tim Roberson reported on Facebook that the department is investigating a shooting that occurred in Boone County around 10:30 a.m. Deputies identified the victim as Tim Blackburn, 59, who was transported to a local hospital and is in critical condition. The sheriff's office says the victim's vehicle, a black 1993 Chevrolet pickup truck, was taken from the scene and was found near Grinder's Fairy along the Buffalo National River by the Searcy County Sheriff's Department. Deputies believe the suspects involved in the truck theft abandoned it and are possibly on foot. The suspects have been identified as Jason Lee Stockstill, 49, and Heather Dawn Scallion, 38. The sheriff's office says both Stockstill and Scallion should be considered armed and dangerous The BCSO says that anyone that comes in contact or has information regarding Stockstill and/or Scallion's whereabouts should call police immediately.
Inflation Rises 5.4% in September
Another surge in consumer prices in September pushed inflation up 5.4% from where it was a year ago, matching the highest shift higher since 2008 as tangled global supply lines continue to create havoc. U.S. consumer prices rose 0.4% in September from August as the costs of new cars, food, gas, and restaurant meals all jumped. The annual increase in the consumer price index matched readings in June and July as the highest in 13 years, the Labor Department said Wednesday.Excluding the volatile food and energy categories, core inflation rose 0.2% in September and 4% compared with a year ago. Core prices hit a three-decade high of 4.5% in June. The unexpected burst of inflation this year reflects sharply higher prices for food and energy, but also for furniture, cars, televisions, and other largely imported goods. COVID-19 has shut down factories in Asia and slowed U.S. port operations, leaving container ships anchored at sea and consumers and businesses paying more for goods that may not arrive for months. Higher prices are also outstripping the pay gains many workers are able to obtain from businesses, which are having to pay more to attract employees. Average hourly wages rose 4.6% in September from a year earlier, a healthy increase, but not enough to keep up with inflation. One good sign in September was that prices fell or moderated in categories that had been initially pushed much higher by the pandemic. Those declines kept core price increases from worsening.
Butterball Ground Turkey Recall
Some Butterball ground turkey products are being recalled due to possible contamination, the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service said Wednesday. The recall affects more than 14,000 pounds of ground turkey products. The products “may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically blue plastic,” the FSIS said. 2.5-lb. trays containing “farm to family BUTTERBALL all natural Ground Turkey” with the case code 50211271, a sell or freeze by date of 10/18/2021, and timestamps from 2123 through 2302 printed on the packaging. 3-lb. trays containing “Kroger GROUND TURKEY” with the case code 50211271, a sell or freeze by date of 10/17/2021, and timestamps from 2314 through 2351 printed on the packaging. The products being recalled are marked with the establishment number “EST. P-7345.” They were shipped to stores across the U.S. and should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase. No injuries have been reported. Anyone with concerns about an injury or illness is advised to contact their healthcare provider. Anyone with questions about the recall can contact the Butterball Consumer Hotline at 800.288.8372.
Arkansas Boy Wins Kids USA Mullet Champion
An Arkansas 11-year-old was just crowned the Kids USA Mullet Champion, and now he plans to use his prize to help other children in foster care. Allan Baltz, 11, was one of 25 finalists in the kid’s division of the competition, and earlier this week it was announced that he took the winning title with more than 25,000 votes. The $2,500 prize for having the rocking do will now go to charities like Project Zero, though Allan’s generosity did not stop there. So far, the prize money pushes his fundraising efforts to more than $5,500. In 2015, Allan and his twin sister Alice were adopted by Derek and Lesli Baltz of Jonesboro. Medical issues have put a number of challenges in front of the young boy. During the coronavirus lockdown, Allan and his family looked for ways to make memories. His mother said that the mullet idea was only supposed to last until the school year started, but Allan had other plans. After he was encouraged to enter the competition, Allan agreed to enter on the condition that any winnings would go to charities that are close to his heart. “I know I’m one of the really lucky ones because I have a great mom and dad who adopted me, and I really want to be able to help other kids who are looking for forever homes,” he said. “This money will really help people who are working with foster kids.” Allan was not the only “long hair, don’t care” kid trying to help others. The silver-medalist in the Kids Division, 7-year-old Ezra Cramer from Alabama, also looked to help his community. Ezra and his family used the notoriety the contest gave the boy and used it to raise money for an anti-bully campaign.
Razorbacks Looking Forward to Home Game with Auburn
Arkansas has been on the road for so long that the Razorbacks may feel like strangers in their stadium. No. 17 Arkansas has not played at home since Sept. 18, when the Razorbacks dismantled Georgia Southern 45-10. They are excited to host Saturday’s game against Auburn. “We need our fans,” Arkansas coach Sam Pittman said. “We need our students to get here early and be raising heck this week. Our football team needs a home game and we need our fans to show up and help up win this game.” Arkansas (4-2, 1-2 SEC) opened the season with four straight wins and climbed to No. 8 in the Associated Press poll before dropping back-to-back games to Georgia and Ole Miss. Auburn (4-2, 1-1) is coming off a 34-10 loss to Georgia under first-year coach Bryan Harsin. Pittman said the Tigers have regained their tenacity on the defensive side under new defensive coordinator Derek Mason, the former Vanderbilt head coach. “I really like their team,” Pittman said. “They are really physical and well coached. Defensively, they are back to where Auburn has been, (a) really dominating defensive line. They are just a really good football team.” The Tigers rank third in the SEC in run defense (104.7 yards allowed per game), which will make for an interesting battle on Saturday against the Razorbacks’ run game, which ranks fourth in the SEC (244.8 yards per game).

10/14/2021

FDA Found Moderna Booster Shot Enhances Virus-Fighting Anitbodies
A Food and Drug Administration review released Tuesday found that a booster shot of the Moderna coronavirus vaccine enhanced virus-fighting antibodies in people who had received the standard two-dose regimen at least six months earlier. The document, like a previous review of evidence for a booster of Pfizer-BioNTech, struck an ambivalent tone about whether boosters are needed now. FDA reviewers noted that a half-dose booster shot of the Moderna vaccine topped off the level of antibodies, the most easily measurable barometer of immunity. Moderna said the booster even triggered a 42-fold rise in antibodies able to target the highly contagious delta variant. But the FDA reviewers also pointed out that the utility of a booster will depend on factors that are unclear at this moment -- such as whether the protection of initial vaccination has dropped substantially. The document was one of a series posted online in advance of a two-day meeting scheduled for Thursday and Friday at which independent experts will advise the agency on questions related to boosters, including:• Are extra shots of coronavirus vaccines developed by Moderna and Johnson & Johnson safe and effective?• Does data suggest people can safely take a booster dose made by a company different from their original shot?On Thursday, advisers are expected to consider data supporting a third shot of Moderna, which would be the equivalent of a half-dose of the original shot. The booster would be administered at least six months after initial vaccination. Gov. Hutchinson refused to sign several bills from the Legislature, but explains why in this report.
Missing Teen from Huntsville
Huntsville Police Department and Madison County Sheriff’s Office are searching for a Huntsville teen who was been missing since Monday. Kami Coggins, 16, was last seen October 12 around 11:15 at Huntsville High School. Anyone who has had contact with her since Monday is encouraged to contact the Madison County Sheriff’s Office. School Resource Officer Monica Blair can be reached at (479) 738-2320
Teacher of the Yeat for 2022 - Jessica Saum
essica Saum, a teacher of special needs pupils at Stagecoach Elementary School in Cabot, was named Arkansas' Teacher of the Year for 2022 at a surprise ceremony Wednesday. The 38-year-old native of Columbia, S.C., was cited for her innovation in exposing her pupils to a wide range of opportunities, and for her advocacy for improved resources and support for military families as they make frequent moves into new states and into new schools. "This is just the honor of a life time," Saum said after the announcement. "And the opportunities it is going to provide for me to be a voice for Cabot, for Arkansas ... for my students and for the military community, I am filled with so much joy and so much appreciation for everyone who has helped me get to this point." Saum, who has been teaching up to 15 children a year in self-contained special education classrooms at Stagecoach since 2018, will now compete for National Teacher of the Year honors. She will also receive a one-year leave of absence from her Cabot job starting in July to serve as a teacher ambassador for the Arkansas Department of Education and as an ex-officio member of the state Board of Education. In addition to the $2,000 she has won for being one of 12 regional finalists in the Teacher of the Year competition and one of four semi-finalists for the state honor, she will receive $14,000 for the singular honor -- all provided by the Walton Family Foundation of Bentonville.
Arkansas ACT Test Scores Same as 2020
Fewer students in Arkansas' high school Class of 2021 took the ACT college entrance exam, but those who did earned the same average 18.8 composite score as the Class of 2020, the Arkansas Division of Elementary and Secondary Education reported Wednesday. Nationally, the average composite score fell for the fourth consecutive year but is still higher than the Arkansas composite. The 2021 national composite score was 20.3 on a scale of 1 to 36. A total of 31,152 Arkansas public school students who graduated in 2021 -- 97% of the class -- took the ACT at least once, the Arkansas education agency reported. That is a decrease of 1,360 students from the previous year, Arkansas education leaders said most students in the Class of 2021 took the ACT tests in the spring of their junior year, when it was given at no charge to the students. The 2021 ACT results reflect in large part the testing of students that occurred in early 2020, just before the mid-March outbreak of covid-19 that ended on-campus instruction and disrupted standardized testing, including retakes of the ACT for higher scores, for the rest of the school year. "While the effects of covid-19 may not be fully reflected in these scores, the pandemic definitely limited the number of opportunities typically available for graduating seniors who choose to take the ACT multiple times," Arkansas Education Secretary Johnny Key said in a prepared statement Wednesday. "These additional opportunities would have been included in the data and provided a better reflection of student achievement for the 2021 graduating class." Key said educators know that there is work to be done to improve achievement. Nationally, 25% of test-takers met the readiness benchmarks in all four subject areas. That was down from 26% in 2020. A benchmark score is the minimum score needed on an ACT subject-area test to indicate a 50% chance of obtaining a B or higher or about a 75% chance of obtaining a C or higher in the corresponding college courses. The state agency also reported that the average composite score for Arkansas students who took the test multiple times was 21.3 compared with 16.8 for students who took the test only once.
SSI to Give COLA Adjustment for 2022
Rising inflation has triggered a sizable increase in Social Security’s annual cost-of-living adjustment, or COLA, for 2022. The Social Security Administration announced the 5.9% COLA on Wednesday after a Labor Department report on inflation during September. Over the last 10 years, the Social Security COLA has averaged about 1.7% annually as inflation remained low. But the economic recovery from the coronavirus pandemic has triggered rising prices for a wide range of goods and services, and that will translate to bigger checks for retirees. Policymakers say the COLA works to preserve the purchasing power of Social Security benefits and shouldn’t be seen as a pay hike for retirees. At one time Congress had to approve inflation increases, but starting in the mid-1970s lawmakers turned that function over to nonpartisan experts within the government bureaucracy. The annual review is now tied to changes in an official measure of inflation and proceeds automatically and with no political brinkmanship. The Great Recession saw a COLA increase of 5.8% for 2009, and next year’s number is just a notch above that. But one has to go back nearly 40 years to find a bigger COLA boost, the 7.4% awarded for 1983. Next year’s number won’t come close to that, but it’s still the biggest Social Security hike the vast majority of baby boomer retirees have seen. Up to now, they’ve collected meager to modest annual adjustments, not counting three years for which there was no COLA because inflation barely showed a pulse. A 5.9% COLA will increase the average Social Security payment for a retired worker by about $92 a month, to $1,657 next year. Compare that with this year’s COLA, worth only about $20 a month. For the first time in 39 years, the cost of delivering benefits will exceed Social Security’s total income from payroll tax collections and interest. From here on in, Social Security will have to tap its savings to pay full benefits. The report also moved up the exhaustion date for Social Security’s massive trust fund by one year, to 2034. At that point, the program will be able to pay only 78% of scheduled benefits, the report said. Such a reduction would represent a major hardship for most people who depend on Social Security, even middle-class retirees. But hardly anyone with political power in Washington is talking about fixes.
Gas Prices Still On the Rise
Those hitting the road these past few weeks may have noticed it takes more to fill up the tank. Usually, gas prices take a dip in the Fall. But across the nation, drivers are seeing an increase, with the average cost statewide in Arkansas around $2.94 per gallon. A spokesperson with AAA explained it’s all due to the cost of crude oil and the fact that since the summer, the demand for gas hasn’t gone down as road trips and travel continue. Micherlean Blakley lives in Alexander but stopped in North Little Rock to fill up her tank after running errands. She’s noticed the heightened cost over the past month. “I am surprised at the gas prices,” Blakely said. “They are rather high.” Just over a year after prices reached all-time lows during the pandemic, they’re taking off again – costing drivers more than just a few cents. Nick Chabarria with AAA explains, “what we’re seeing right now are prices that are a dollar more expensive than this time last year. Some of those states that are usually a little bit cheaper are really starting to near the $3 mark.” Arkansas is one of the cheapest states for gas in any given year, falling to the fourth cheapest in 2021. But as national prices go up, we see the toll on local pumps, as well. Chabarria even says this Fall’s price increase is one of the largest in recent history. “This is the highest average that Arkansas has experienced since October 2014,” he said. AAA adds that they expect the average in Arkansas to reach $3 or higher in the next few weeks and that prices could continue to fluctuate with the arrival of holiday travel.