Fall is in the air, and SeaPort Airlines is celebrating by announcing an “Oktoberfares” sale. Until October 9, SeaPort is offering fares for select routes starting at $19* or $29*. Bookings can be made at or by calling 888-573-2767, at www.SeaPortAirlines.com , http://www.cityhs.net/departments_airport.html , or through all major global distribution systems (GDS). Sale routes include Salina-Kansas City, Pendleton-Boise, Harrison-Kansas City, Hot Springs-Memphis, and El Dorado-Dallas.
“We’re taking this opportunity to show appreciation to our customers for a great summer and remind them that SeaPort is a wonderful alternative as we head into the winter driving season,” said Rob McKinney, SeaPort Airlines president.
The offer is based on availability. Fares must be purchased during the promotional period with at least a three-day advance purchase. Tickets are non-refundable, and itineraries cannot be changed. Travel must be between October 1 and November 15, 2011. Additional taxes and fees may apply.*
Portland, Oregon-based SeaPort Airlines, Inc. operates scheduled flights six days a week from Hot Springs Memorial Field, in addition to Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Kansas, Missouri, Tennessee, Texas and Alaska. SeaPort’s goal is to provide a unique, personalized travel experience from terminal check-in to destination arrival.
*A $4.50 PFC, $3.70 Segment Fee, and/or $2.50 9/11 Security Fee may apply, depending on route.
Friday, September 30, 2011
Street closure in Hot Springs
The southbound lane of Higdon Ferry Road in Hot Springs, between Jerome and Emory streets, is closed through today, Friday, September 30 for gas line repair. Signs are posted, and motorists are advised to use caution when traveling through the project area.
Drinking water advisory committee quarterly meeting
WHO: Arkansas Drinking Water Advisory & Operator Licensing Committee
WHAT: The quarterly meeting of the Arkansas Drinking Water Advisory & Operator Licensing Committee
WHEN: Wednesday, October 12, 10 a.m.
WHERE: Dale Bumpers Training Center, Arkansas Rural Water Association Office, Lonoke. To reach the Training Center use the Lonoke exit (Exit 175) off Interstate 40. Then go to the commercial area on the north side of the Interstate. From that major intersection take Dee Dee Street to the North, going between McDonald’s and the gas station and then between the hotels. The Training Center is on the West (left) side of Dee Dee Street. It is a gray with blue trim building on the north side (backside) of the commercial subdivision. Parking is readily available.
WHY: For a copy of the proposed meeting agenda, the April 13 draft Committee meeting minutes, and an updated list of Committee contact information, please contact Martin Nutt at by phone at (501) 661-2623 or by e-mail at martin.nutt@arkansas.gov .
Note: For more information on the Arkansas Drinking Water Advisory & Operator Licensing Committee, go to: http://www.healthy.arkansas.gov
WHAT: The quarterly meeting of the Arkansas Drinking Water Advisory & Operator Licensing Committee
WHEN: Wednesday, October 12, 10 a.m.
WHERE: Dale Bumpers Training Center, Arkansas Rural Water Association Office, Lonoke. To reach the Training Center use the Lonoke exit (Exit 175) off Interstate 40. Then go to the commercial area on the north side of the Interstate. From that major intersection take Dee Dee Street to the North, going between McDonald’s and the gas station and then between the hotels. The Training Center is on the West (left) side of Dee Dee Street. It is a gray with blue trim building on the north side (backside) of the commercial subdivision. Parking is readily available.
WHY: For a copy of the proposed meeting agenda, the April 13 draft Committee meeting minutes, and an updated list of Committee contact information, please contact Martin Nutt at by phone at (501) 661-2623 or by e-mail at martin.nutt@arkansas.gov .
Note: For more information on the Arkansas Drinking Water Advisory & Operator Licensing Committee, go to: http://www.healthy.arkansas.gov
CDC press conference next week in Little Rock
Carolyn Dresler, MD and Medical Director of the Arkansas Department of Health, Tobacco Prevention Cessation Program, Pam Christie, Executive Director of the Mental Health Council of Arkansas, Mr. Doug Stadter, CEO Centers for Youth and Families and President of the Mental Health Council of Arkansas and Larry Miller, MD, Medical Director, Division of Behavioral Health Services and Interim Director, Office of Alcohol and Drug Prevention Press Conference in the Arkansas State Capitol rotunda.
WHEN: Thursday, October 6 at 2 p.m.
WHERE: Arkansas State Capitol
Press conference to announce Centers for Disease Control and Prevention grant award, overview of the grant goals and objectives and partners collaborating to facilitate the grant.
WHEN: Thursday, October 6 at 2 p.m.
WHERE: Arkansas State Capitol
Press conference to announce Centers for Disease Control and Prevention grant award, overview of the grant goals and objectives and partners collaborating to facilitate the grant.
Super senior golfing still available on some days
Super Senior Golfers (80 and older) are allowed to play golf on Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Coronado Golf Course for no greens fee.
Property owners 90 years of age or older receive free usage at all POA recreation amenities (ie: golf, tennis, etc.) in Hot Springs Village.
POA identification cCards must be coded ‘Super Senior’ or ‘Roaring 90’s’ at the POA Administration Building to receive the benefits.
Applicable surcharge and cart fee will continue to be collected.
If you have any questions contact POA services at 922-5556.
Property owners 90 years of age or older receive free usage at all POA recreation amenities (ie: golf, tennis, etc.) in Hot Springs Village.
POA identification cCards must be coded ‘Super Senior’ or ‘Roaring 90’s’ at the POA Administration Building to receive the benefits.
Applicable surcharge and cart fee will continue to be collected.
If you have any questions contact POA services at 922-5556.
POA looking to save money with direct deposits
The Village POA is encouraging property owners to take advantage of the automatic bank draft program.
Whether paying monthly, quarterly, semi-annually, or annually, the automatic bank draft program allows members the freedom from writing a check and the hassle of finding a stamp and mailing the envelope.
According to the POA, automatic bank drafts also reduce the cost of payment processing for the POA, allowing members to receive the highest level of quality service.
Dropping off payments at the POA while out running errands saves the property owner the money for a stamp and envelope but those POA members may not be eligible for the highest level of quality service.
Automatic draft is available for assessment and utility payments.
If you should have questions, contact property owner services at 922-5556.
Whether paying monthly, quarterly, semi-annually, or annually, the automatic bank draft program allows members the freedom from writing a check and the hassle of finding a stamp and mailing the envelope.
According to the POA, automatic bank drafts also reduce the cost of payment processing for the POA, allowing members to receive the highest level of quality service.
Dropping off payments at the POA while out running errands saves the property owner the money for a stamp and envelope but those POA members may not be eligible for the highest level of quality service.
Automatic draft is available for assessment and utility payments.
If you should have questions, contact property owner services at 922-5556.
Contractors' licence requirements
Effective January 1, 2012, Act 1208 of 2011 requires almost anyone doing work at a residence, when the project is $2,000 or more, labor and material, to have a license from the Contractors Licensing Board.
During the grandfathering period, July 27, 2011 until December 31, 2011, no test will be required to obtain a license.
Beginning January 1, 2012 the penalty for performing work at a residence without a license can be up to $400 per day.
Contractor application packets are available from the Planning & Inspections Department at the POA Administration office or contact the Contractors Licensing Board at 501-372-4661 or www.arkansas.gov/clb
During the grandfathering period, July 27, 2011 until December 31, 2011, no test will be required to obtain a license.
Beginning January 1, 2012 the penalty for performing work at a residence without a license can be up to $400 per day.
Contractor application packets are available from the Planning & Inspections Department at the POA Administration office or contact the Contractors Licensing Board at 501-372-4661 or www.arkansas.gov/clb
Car decals in the Village
When selling or trading personal vehicles, remember to remove the POA decal from the front bumper.
Property owner’s brining in their old decal will receive their new decal at no charge. Contact POA Services at 501-922-5556 with questions.
POA vehicle decals are a convenience but not required. If property owners are willing to show their POA indentification card at the gates, a property owner is not required to buy a vehicle decal. The line might be a little longer but it is one way to save money in personal budgets.
The proposed decal cost increase may have more and more property owners showing their cards instead of paying the much higher amount for vehicle decals in 2012.
Property owner’s brining in their old decal will receive their new decal at no charge. Contact POA Services at 501-922-5556 with questions.
POA vehicle decals are a convenience but not required. If property owners are willing to show their POA indentification card at the gates, a property owner is not required to buy a vehicle decal. The line might be a little longer but it is one way to save money in personal budgets.
The proposed decal cost increase may have more and more property owners showing their cards instead of paying the much higher amount for vehicle decals in 2012.
Health Fair in October
The Village Annual Health Fair is Wednesday, October 26, beginning at 9 a.m.
The event is co-sponsored by the POA and KVRE 92.9. The health fair has vendors offering health screenings at this year’s event.
A bus from Good Samaritan will offer shuttle services from Village Bible Church and Sacred Heart Catholic Church to the Coronado Center from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m.
Door prizes will be given throughout the day. Mark you calendar and join us for this year’s event.
The event is co-sponsored by the POA and KVRE 92.9. The health fair has vendors offering health screenings at this year’s event.
A bus from Good Samaritan will offer shuttle services from Village Bible Church and Sacred Heart Catholic Church to the Coronado Center from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m.
Door prizes will be given throughout the day. Mark you calendar and join us for this year’s event.
Halloween Carnival in the Village
The Village POA recreation eepartment is sponsoring a Halloween Carnival at the Coronado Community Center on Saturday, October 29 from 3 to 5 p.m.
Village property owners and their guests, ages 12 and under are invited to attend. Costumes are encouraged and there will be goodie bags for each child, prizes, a bounce house and carnival games. Painted pumpkins from the Ouachita Decorative Artists will be given away by drawing at the end of the event.
Children must be accompanied by an adult. Mark your calendars and join the fun.
For more information call (501) 922-5050.
Village property owners and their guests, ages 12 and under are invited to attend. Costumes are encouraged and there will be goodie bags for each child, prizes, a bounce house and carnival games. Painted pumpkins from the Ouachita Decorative Artists will be given away by drawing at the end of the event.
Children must be accompanied by an adult. Mark your calendars and join the fun.
For more information call (501) 922-5050.
Pryor bringing export jobs to Arkansas
U.S. Senator Mark Pryor announced a $570,000 grant to boost Arkansas’s small business efforts to increase exports, particularly to China and Southeast Asia.
Pryor said the initiative will significantly expand the Arkansas World Trade Center’s outreach efforts to small businesses and agricultural producers, and help interested parties identify new global markets for their products and services. Increased exports are expected to increase job growth, boost state revenue, and impact the current trade deficit positively.
“The U.S. can outpace its global competitors if we can better identify and promote our goods and services, which is where the Arkansas World Trade Center comes in play.” Pryor said. “These funds will provide a springboard for many of our state’s businesses and producers to enter new markets or expand their current export business. As a result, I think we’ll see new jobs created, new opportunities for growth, and new revenue.”
The State Trade and Export Promotion Program (STEP) grant program was established in the Small Business Jobs Act of 2010. It is a three-year pilot trade and export initiative designed to increase the number of small business exports. The STEP grants will help provide support for small business participation in foreign trade missions and markets, trade show exhibitions, training workshops, and other export initiatives approved by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). The program is expected to increase the number of small businesses that are exporting and raise the value of exports for small businesses that are currently exporting so they can grow and create jobs.
Pryor said the initiative will significantly expand the Arkansas World Trade Center’s outreach efforts to small businesses and agricultural producers, and help interested parties identify new global markets for their products and services. Increased exports are expected to increase job growth, boost state revenue, and impact the current trade deficit positively.
“The U.S. can outpace its global competitors if we can better identify and promote our goods and services, which is where the Arkansas World Trade Center comes in play.” Pryor said. “These funds will provide a springboard for many of our state’s businesses and producers to enter new markets or expand their current export business. As a result, I think we’ll see new jobs created, new opportunities for growth, and new revenue.”
The State Trade and Export Promotion Program (STEP) grant program was established in the Small Business Jobs Act of 2010. It is a three-year pilot trade and export initiative designed to increase the number of small business exports. The STEP grants will help provide support for small business participation in foreign trade missions and markets, trade show exhibitions, training workshops, and other export initiatives approved by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). The program is expected to increase the number of small businesses that are exporting and raise the value of exports for small businesses that are currently exporting so they can grow and create jobs.
Thursday, September 29, 2011
TRAC meeting
WHO: North East Arkansas Trauma Regional Advisory Council
WHAT: TRAC Meeting
WHEN: Wednesday, October 5, 1 to 3 p.m.
WHERE: St . Bernard’s Medical Center Auditorium, 505 E. Washington, Ave, Jonesboro, AR 72401
WHY: This is a scheduled meeting of the Northeast Arkansas Trauma Regional Advisory Council as we work to build a trauma system in Arkansas.
Note: The meeting is open to the general public. If you have any questions or need directions please contact the Trauma Section at 501-671-1428.
For more information on the trauma system in Arkansas or the Trauma Council, go to http://www.healthy.arkansas.gov/
WHAT: TRAC Meeting
WHEN: Wednesday, October 5, 1 to 3 p.m.
WHERE: St . Bernard’s Medical Center Auditorium, 505 E. Washington, Ave, Jonesboro, AR 72401
WHY: This is a scheduled meeting of the Northeast Arkansas Trauma Regional Advisory Council as we work to build a trauma system in Arkansas.
Note: The meeting is open to the general public. If you have any questions or need directions please contact the Trauma Section at 501-671-1428.
For more information on the trauma system in Arkansas or the Trauma Council, go to http://www.healthy.arkansas.gov/
Street closure in Hot Springs
Broadway Street, between Orange and Olive streets in Hot Springs, is closed to through traffic during daytime hours day today, September 29, for a gas line construction project. Signs will be posted, and motorists are advised to seek an alternate route.
Heifer 100-mile meal today
How would a meal taste if all the food came from within 100 miles, not just vegetables but grains and meat, too? Central Arkansans will enjoy a fresh, locally-sourced dinner while learning how to bring healthy food to other citizens at Heifer International's 100-Mile Meal today, Thursday, Sept. 29 at Heifer Village.
The meal will be followed by a distinguished panel discussion exploring the state of food in Arkansas. It is part of the Little Rock Healthy and Active Living Summit. The meal is a chance to not only eat an entire dinner of fresh, locally-produced food, but also to be part of a stimulating evening of discovery about the impact of individual food choices and how communities in Arkansas are working to support local farmers and change the way we eat.
The panel of guests will include representatives from Heifer USA, Delta Garden Study, Lower Mississippi Delta Obesity Prevention Research Unit (Delta OPRU), Agricultural Research Service, USDA and the Arkansas governor's No Kid Hungry campaign. Doors to Heifer Village, located in downtown Little Rock, will open at 5:30 p.m., where a cash bar will be available and dinner will begin just after 6 p.m.
Heifer Village is Heifer International's interactive museum that provides educational programming to teach participants about the root causes of poverty and hunger, Heifer's work to help the poor achieve self-reliance and what they can do to help. Since 1944, Heifer International has provided livestock and environmentally sound agricultural training to improve the lives of those who struggle daily for reliable sources of food and income.
Heifer is currently working in more than 50 countries, including the United States, to help families and communities become more self-reliant. For more information, visit www.heifer.org or call1-800-696-1918.
The meal will be followed by a distinguished panel discussion exploring the state of food in Arkansas. It is part of the Little Rock Healthy and Active Living Summit. The meal is a chance to not only eat an entire dinner of fresh, locally-produced food, but also to be part of a stimulating evening of discovery about the impact of individual food choices and how communities in Arkansas are working to support local farmers and change the way we eat.
The panel of guests will include representatives from Heifer USA, Delta Garden Study, Lower Mississippi Delta Obesity Prevention Research Unit (Delta OPRU), Agricultural Research Service, USDA and the Arkansas governor's No Kid Hungry campaign. Doors to Heifer Village, located in downtown Little Rock, will open at 5:30 p.m., where a cash bar will be available and dinner will begin just after 6 p.m.
Heifer Village is Heifer International's interactive museum that provides educational programming to teach participants about the root causes of poverty and hunger, Heifer's work to help the poor achieve self-reliance and what they can do to help. Since 1944, Heifer International has provided livestock and environmentally sound agricultural training to improve the lives of those who struggle daily for reliable sources of food and income.
Heifer is currently working in more than 50 countries, including the United States, to help families and communities become more self-reliant. For more information, visit www.heifer.org or call1-800-696-1918.
Martin making military votes count
Secretary of State Mark Martin announced his office is actively reaching out to military personnel to increase their awareness of how to obtain ballots and ensure their voter registration, whether serving at home or abroad. “Several federal laws laid the foundation for guaranteeing our military personnel’s right to vote,” Martin said. "We are taking additional steps by proactively reaching out to military installations and personnel here in Arkansas, to make everyone aware of the changes to the election calendar for military voters."
A law passed in the 2011 legislative session requires that county clerks begin mailing requested absentee ballots to overseas and military voters 45 days before an election, rather than 30 days before the election. This allows more time for citizens living outside the United States to vote.
"The upcoming statewide special election on November 8 is the first election during which the new election-law calendar will apply,” Martin said. “This new state law provides additional safeguards for military voters, above and beyond the requirements of the federal laws pertaining to military and out-of-country voters.” Secretary of State staff are contacting National Guard and Reserve voter services officers, the Arkansas Department of Veterans Affairs and other entities to establish relationships and alert them to upcoming elections. "We are also reaching out to the Arkansas congressional delegation to work with their military liaisons," Martin said. "We want to ensure all our service men and women know how to get and cast a ballot for the special election in November and for next year’s primary and general elections. Since this is a new law, military voters may not be aware of the changes.” Martin, a former United States Navy submariner, said his background makes military voting especially important to him. "As a Navy veteran, I'm committed to honoring the men and women in uniform for their courage and service by ensuring their right and ability to vote," he said. The effort has been well received, Martin said. "Everyone my staff has spoken to has been happy to have a local source of information, and they appreciate that we're being proactive in reaching out to them." Staff have given voter service officers information on upcoming elections and related dates, such as the deadlines to register or request an absentee ballot for the November special election. They're also pointing military personnel to the Secretary of State's election website, www.votenaturally.org, and voter registration information portal, www.voterview.org. "I appreciate what our men and women in uniform do to protect us, and I'm dedicated to providing those service people from Arkansas every assistance in exercising the rights they protect," Martin said. “This special election gives us the opportunity to open the door to higher participation – and more meaningful outreach – to our military voters in advance of the Presidential Election next year.”
A law passed in the 2011 legislative session requires that county clerks begin mailing requested absentee ballots to overseas and military voters 45 days before an election, rather than 30 days before the election. This allows more time for citizens living outside the United States to vote.
"The upcoming statewide special election on November 8 is the first election during which the new election-law calendar will apply,” Martin said. “This new state law provides additional safeguards for military voters, above and beyond the requirements of the federal laws pertaining to military and out-of-country voters.” Secretary of State staff are contacting National Guard and Reserve voter services officers, the Arkansas Department of Veterans Affairs and other entities to establish relationships and alert them to upcoming elections. "We are also reaching out to the Arkansas congressional delegation to work with their military liaisons," Martin said. "We want to ensure all our service men and women know how to get and cast a ballot for the special election in November and for next year’s primary and general elections. Since this is a new law, military voters may not be aware of the changes.” Martin, a former United States Navy submariner, said his background makes military voting especially important to him. "As a Navy veteran, I'm committed to honoring the men and women in uniform for their courage and service by ensuring their right and ability to vote," he said. The effort has been well received, Martin said. "Everyone my staff has spoken to has been happy to have a local source of information, and they appreciate that we're being proactive in reaching out to them." Staff have given voter service officers information on upcoming elections and related dates, such as the deadlines to register or request an absentee ballot for the November special election. They're also pointing military personnel to the Secretary of State's election website, www.votenaturally.org, and voter registration information portal, www.voterview.org. "I appreciate what our men and women in uniform do to protect us, and I'm dedicated to providing those service people from Arkansas every assistance in exercising the rights they protect," Martin said. “This special election gives us the opportunity to open the door to higher participation – and more meaningful outreach – to our military voters in advance of the Presidential Election next year.”
Four ribbon cuttings in Benton
There are four ribbon cuttings scheduled in October. They are ALL taking place at the Benton Chamber of Commerce located at 607 N. Market Street in Benton.
Wednesday, October 5, at 2 p.m. for Bin There Dump That
Thursday, October 13, at 10 a.m. for Helen Hall, Independent Scentsy Consultant
Thursday, October 13, at- 10:15 a.m. for Arkansas Child Shield
Thursday, October 13, at 10:30 a.m. for Lamar Advertising
Wednesday, October 5, at 2 p.m. for Bin There Dump That
Thursday, October 13, at 10 a.m. for Helen Hall, Independent Scentsy Consultant
Thursday, October 13, at- 10:15 a.m. for Arkansas Child Shield
Thursday, October 13, at 10:30 a.m. for Lamar Advertising
Coming up at Wildwood
2nd Annual RunWILD 5K and WILDFun Family Run kicks off HARVEST! Festival on Saturday, October 8 at 8:30 a.m. wtih West Little Rock's only point-to-point race. Race begins at the Promenade at Chenal and ends inside Wildwood's unique botanical gardens.
Runners receive free admision to HARVEST! Festival!
Contact Leslie Vaeth at lvaeth@wildwoodpark.org for volunteer opportunities!
Pumpkin Hill - For schools, special groups and families! October 7 through October 30, catch a hayride to Pumpkin Hill's hay fort and pumpkin patch!Open to the public Sundays, 1 to 4 p.m. Weekdays are available for schools and community groups by reservation.
Reserve your group field trip today! Call 501-821-7275 or e-mail Kristen Vandaveer at kvandaveer@wildwoodpark.org.
October 8 & 9 - A family Festival celebrating autumn in Arkansas with hayrides, crafts, kid's activities, the Arkansas Pickin' & Fiddlin' Championship, model trains, live demonstrations, a selection of southern vendors, a culinary competition and delicious foods for purchase! Plus, don't miss a special viewing on the Devil's Box!
Culinary Competition at HARVEST!
Interested in showing off your culinary skills? Enter the culinary competition. The best sweet or savory pumpkin dish wins $100! What are you waiting for? Enter today!
Back for its 4th year, the Arkansas Pickin' & Fiddlin Championship attracts musicians and fans from across Arkansas and the region.
Judges include 2011 Grand National Fiddle Champion and Grand Master Fiddle Champion, Katrina Nicolayeff (who is also one of Nashville's top session musicians); Arkansas native Tim Crouch; and nationally renowned fiddler Junior Marriott, who has worked with Rhonda Vincent and Mark Chestnutt, among others. Each will perform during the Championship.
The competition for Arkansas' state champions has grown so much that Pickin' & Fiddlin' spans Saturday and Sunday of the HARVEST! Festival. Activities include Hot Fiddle, Gambler's Draw, and a Round Robin fiddle-off. Contest includes Arkansas State Flatpick, Arkansas State Mandolin, Arkansas State Banjo and Arkansas State Acoustic Roots Band, with the Arkansas Master Fiddle championship including divisions from pee wee to senior. Prize packages include cash up to $500 and an opportunity for the 2011 winner of the acoustic roots band division to open for HARVEST! Festival 2012.
Volunteer Opportunities
October 8, 8 a.m. Volunteers needed for the RunWILD 5K and WILDFun Family Run to assist with registration, packet pick up, T-Shirt distribution, set up, personal item check, chip clipping at the finish line, concessions, 1K registration and 1K general assistance.
October 8 and 9, For HARVEST! Festival, we'll need everything from ticket takers to WILDBucks sellers and from concessions folks to kids' activities leaders to parkers. We will have three shifts Saturday and two on Sunday. In addition to the regular shift hours, we also will need help Sunday morning for set up beginning at 10:00am and for an hour after the festival on each day for clean up.
Can you drive a tractor? We need your help! Hayrides to Pumpkin Hill begin October 7, and that means we'll need plenty of tractor drivers!
Interested in becoming a WILD Man or WILD Woman volunteer? E-mail Leslie Vaeth at lvaeth@wildwoodpark.org or call 501-821-7275!
Runners receive free admision to HARVEST! Festival!
Contact Leslie Vaeth at lvaeth@wildwoodpark.org for volunteer opportunities!
Pumpkin Hill - For schools, special groups and families! October 7 through October 30, catch a hayride to Pumpkin Hill's hay fort and pumpkin patch!Open to the public Sundays, 1 to 4 p.m. Weekdays are available for schools and community groups by reservation.
Reserve your group field trip today! Call 501-821-7275 or e-mail Kristen Vandaveer at kvandaveer@wildwoodpark.org.
October 8 & 9 - A family Festival celebrating autumn in Arkansas with hayrides, crafts, kid's activities, the Arkansas Pickin' & Fiddlin' Championship, model trains, live demonstrations, a selection of southern vendors, a culinary competition and delicious foods for purchase! Plus, don't miss a special viewing on the Devil's Box!
Culinary Competition at HARVEST!
Interested in showing off your culinary skills? Enter the culinary competition. The best sweet or savory pumpkin dish wins $100! What are you waiting for? Enter today!
Back for its 4th year, the Arkansas Pickin' & Fiddlin Championship attracts musicians and fans from across Arkansas and the region.
Judges include 2011 Grand National Fiddle Champion and Grand Master Fiddle Champion, Katrina Nicolayeff (who is also one of Nashville's top session musicians); Arkansas native Tim Crouch; and nationally renowned fiddler Junior Marriott, who has worked with Rhonda Vincent and Mark Chestnutt, among others. Each will perform during the Championship.
The competition for Arkansas' state champions has grown so much that Pickin' & Fiddlin' spans Saturday and Sunday of the HARVEST! Festival. Activities include Hot Fiddle, Gambler's Draw, and a Round Robin fiddle-off. Contest includes Arkansas State Flatpick, Arkansas State Mandolin, Arkansas State Banjo and Arkansas State Acoustic Roots Band, with the Arkansas Master Fiddle championship including divisions from pee wee to senior. Prize packages include cash up to $500 and an opportunity for the 2011 winner of the acoustic roots band division to open for HARVEST! Festival 2012.
Volunteer Opportunities
October 8, 8 a.m. Volunteers needed for the RunWILD 5K and WILDFun Family Run to assist with registration, packet pick up, T-Shirt distribution, set up, personal item check, chip clipping at the finish line, concessions, 1K registration and 1K general assistance.
October 8 and 9, For HARVEST! Festival, we'll need everything from ticket takers to WILDBucks sellers and from concessions folks to kids' activities leaders to parkers. We will have three shifts Saturday and two on Sunday. In addition to the regular shift hours, we also will need help Sunday morning for set up beginning at 10:00am and for an hour after the festival on each day for clean up.
Can you drive a tractor? We need your help! Hayrides to Pumpkin Hill begin October 7, and that means we'll need plenty of tractor drivers!
Interested in becoming a WILD Man or WILD Woman volunteer? E-mail Leslie Vaeth at lvaeth@wildwoodpark.org or call 501-821-7275!
Pryor in the state this week
Senator Mark Pryor said that he is looking forward to traveling the state and meeting with Arkansans to discuss the economy, small business, and other important issues.
Today, Thursday, September 29 at 9:30 a.m., Pryor will tour Molex, the leading source supplier of interconnect products. The tour will take place at 801 Murphy Drive in Maumelle.
At 12 p.m., Pryor will discuss the economy and job creation during the County Judges Association Annual Conference. The meeting will take place at the Hot Springs Convention Center, Room 208 and 209 in Hot Springs.
On Sunday, October 2 at 3 p.m., Pryor will attend a retirement ceremony to honor General Richard E. Swan’s thirty six years of service in the National Guard. The ceremony will take place at the Morale, Welfare, and Recreation Facility, Building 5305 at Camp Robinson in North Little Rock.
Today, Thursday, September 29 at 9:30 a.m., Pryor will tour Molex, the leading source supplier of interconnect products. The tour will take place at 801 Murphy Drive in Maumelle.
At 12 p.m., Pryor will discuss the economy and job creation during the County Judges Association Annual Conference. The meeting will take place at the Hot Springs Convention Center, Room 208 and 209 in Hot Springs.
On Sunday, October 2 at 3 p.m., Pryor will attend a retirement ceremony to honor General Richard E. Swan’s thirty six years of service in the National Guard. The ceremony will take place at the Morale, Welfare, and Recreation Facility, Building 5305 at Camp Robinson in North Little Rock.
Check out the Village Computer Club
Sign up no later than Wed., Oct. 12, for the Computer Club Breakfast Meeting on Fri., Oct. 14, by going to the website: www.cchsv.com, Breakfast Meeting, and clicking on the Reserve button. This is an informal gathering to share new information, gadgets, tips, etc. Come to Debra's (DeSoto and Carmona) at 8 a.m. for fellowship, food, and information.
Around the state in October
The Jonesboro Ghost Tour
October 1 and 2
The Ghost Tour Station, Church & Monroe St, Jonesboro
Main Street Food Truck Festival
October 1
Main Street, 3rd to 7th Streets, Little Rock
6th Annual Ugly Truck Contest
October 1
Broadway & 3rd, Glenwood
21st Annual Corvette Weekend
October 6 - 9
various locations around city, Eureka SpringsR
66th Annual Turkey Trot
October 7 and 8
Town Square, Yellville
Pam Tillis
October 8
Grand Prairie Center on the campus of Phillips Community College of the University of Arkansas - Stuttgart Campus, Stuttgart
48th Annual Wiederkehr Village Weinfest
October 8
Grounds of Wiederkehr Wine Cellars, Wiederkehr Village
25th Annual World Championship Quartz Crystal Dig
October 13 - 15
Montgomery County Fairgrounds, Mount Ida
57th Annual War Eagle Mill Arts & Crafts Fair
October 13 - 16
11045 War Eagle Road, Rogers
20th Annual Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival
October 14 - 23
Malco Theater, Hot Springs
15th Annual Rhythm & Roots Festival
October 14 - 15
McCloy City Park, Monticello
Murder and Mayhem Trolley Tour, "Toast the Ghost"
October 22 - 31
Fort Smith Museum of History, 320 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith
Washington After Dark
October 22
Williams' Tavern Restaurant, Washington
35th Annual Grand Prairie Rice Festival
October 29
City Park at Junction of Highways 70 & 63, Hazen
October 1 and 2
The Ghost Tour Station, Church & Monroe St, Jonesboro
Main Street Food Truck Festival
October 1
Main Street, 3rd to 7th Streets, Little Rock
6th Annual Ugly Truck Contest
October 1
Broadway & 3rd, Glenwood
21st Annual Corvette Weekend
October 6 - 9
various locations around city, Eureka SpringsR
66th Annual Turkey Trot
October 7 and 8
Town Square, Yellville
Pam Tillis
October 8
Grand Prairie Center on the campus of Phillips Community College of the University of Arkansas - Stuttgart Campus, Stuttgart
48th Annual Wiederkehr Village Weinfest
October 8
Grounds of Wiederkehr Wine Cellars, Wiederkehr Village
25th Annual World Championship Quartz Crystal Dig
October 13 - 15
Montgomery County Fairgrounds, Mount Ida
57th Annual War Eagle Mill Arts & Crafts Fair
October 13 - 16
11045 War Eagle Road, Rogers
20th Annual Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival
October 14 - 23
Malco Theater, Hot Springs
15th Annual Rhythm & Roots Festival
October 14 - 15
McCloy City Park, Monticello
Murder and Mayhem Trolley Tour, "Toast the Ghost"
October 22 - 31
Fort Smith Museum of History, 320 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith
Washington After Dark
October 22
Williams' Tavern Restaurant, Washington
35th Annual Grand Prairie Rice Festival
October 29
City Park at Junction of Highways 70 & 63, Hazen
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Opera in the area
The first Met Live in HD Broadcast will be October 15, the production is Donizetti's "Anna Bolena" starring Anna Netrebko. Interested opera attendees will meet in the Woodlands parking lot about 10:45 a.m. and leave there at 11:00. The production starts at 11:55 a.m. The group will return about 4 or 4:30. p.m.
Also "Faust" from the Royal Opera House in London will be shown at the Carmike theater on Higdon Ferry Rd in Hot Springs this coming Wednesday beginning at 1 p.m.
Also "Faust" from the Royal Opera House in London will be shown at the Carmike theater on Higdon Ferry Rd in Hot Springs this coming Wednesday beginning at 1 p.m.
Current road closure in Hot Springs
The right northbound lane of the 100 block of Central Avenue in Hot Springs is closed this evening and throughout tomorrow, Wednesday, September 28, for wastewater service repairs. Motorists are advised to use caution when traveling through the project area.
New exhibit at State Capitol
Secretary of State Mark Martin announced the installation of an updated “Building Forever” exhibit of the Capitol’s and Arkansas’s history over the past century.
The exhibit adds recent history and a deeper understanding of the Capitol’s construction process, Martin said. “The original exhibit, installed in 1992, told the story of the Capitol’s construction in brief, with a general overview of Arkansas’s political history up to 1992.”
The new expansion, he said, “brings the story up to date with the 2010 general election and the political shift since the turn of the twentieth century, when the Capitol was in its infancy.”
The exhibit still includes many of the original illustrations, enlarged for better visibility, and adds new images and information.
“We’ve updated the narrative of the construction using new information that has emerged, giving us a new understanding of the Capitol’s history as well as the state’s,” Martin said. “This tells the story a little more fully.”
The exhibit is the combined work of then-Capitol Historian Ann Clements, renowned Arkansas historian Dr. Michael Dougan and current Capitol historian Dr. David Ware. Students of Arkansas politics and history will enjoy the expanded scope of time and events from the Capitol's perspective.
The exhibit adds recent history and a deeper understanding of the Capitol’s construction process, Martin said. “The original exhibit, installed in 1992, told the story of the Capitol’s construction in brief, with a general overview of Arkansas’s political history up to 1992.”
The new expansion, he said, “brings the story up to date with the 2010 general election and the political shift since the turn of the twentieth century, when the Capitol was in its infancy.”
The exhibit still includes many of the original illustrations, enlarged for better visibility, and adds new images and information.
“We’ve updated the narrative of the construction using new information that has emerged, giving us a new understanding of the Capitol’s history as well as the state’s,” Martin said. “This tells the story a little more fully.”
The exhibit is the combined work of then-Capitol Historian Ann Clements, renowned Arkansas historian Dr. Michael Dougan and current Capitol historian Dr. David Ware. Students of Arkansas politics and history will enjoy the expanded scope of time and events from the Capitol's perspective.
Blood drive in Mena
Donors with Arkansas Blood Institute (ABI) this fall will receive a T-shirt, health screenings and Donor Rewards Points, redeemable for merchandise in ABI’s online store, when they donate blood.
One in three people will need blood in a lifetime, so Mena Regional Health System will host a blood drive 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday, October 11 at 311 North Morrow.
“ABI is very fortunate to have such loyal, giving blood donors,” said Dr. John Armitage, ABI president and CEO. “In order to maintain our three-day supply of blood, it is important for blood donors to donate as often as they are able.”
Blood donation can be made every 56 days and those who are 16 years old* and healthy are encouraged to give.
Because there is no substitute for blood, the supply must constantly be renewed. Although all blood types are needed, those with O-negative type blood are especially encouraged to donate. According to the American Association of Blood Banks, those with O-negative blood type make up only nine percent of the national population. However, O-negative blood can be used by anyone in an emergency situation when a patient’s blood type has not yet been identified.
Arkansas Blood Institute provides every drop of blood needed by patients in 17 hospitals in western Arkansas and eastern Oklahoma thanks to its volunteer donors. Since 1958, those needing blood in the area have counted on mobile blood drives and donor centers in Fort Smith and Hot Springs to ensure there is an adequate blood supply. In October 2010, it became an affiliate of Oklahoma Blood Institute after previously partnering with United Blood Services. Oklahoma Blood Institute is the ninth largest, independent nonprofit blood center in the nation. Arkansas Blood Institute was formed at this time to reflect the local commitment to providing for people in the region.
For more information or to make an appointment, contact Arkansas Blood Institute at 877-340-8777 or visit us at www.arkbi.org.
One in three people will need blood in a lifetime, so Mena Regional Health System will host a blood drive 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday, October 11 at 311 North Morrow.
“ABI is very fortunate to have such loyal, giving blood donors,” said Dr. John Armitage, ABI president and CEO. “In order to maintain our three-day supply of blood, it is important for blood donors to donate as often as they are able.”
Blood donation can be made every 56 days and those who are 16 years old* and healthy are encouraged to give.
Because there is no substitute for blood, the supply must constantly be renewed. Although all blood types are needed, those with O-negative type blood are especially encouraged to donate. According to the American Association of Blood Banks, those with O-negative blood type make up only nine percent of the national population. However, O-negative blood can be used by anyone in an emergency situation when a patient’s blood type has not yet been identified.
Arkansas Blood Institute provides every drop of blood needed by patients in 17 hospitals in western Arkansas and eastern Oklahoma thanks to its volunteer donors. Since 1958, those needing blood in the area have counted on mobile blood drives and donor centers in Fort Smith and Hot Springs to ensure there is an adequate blood supply. In October 2010, it became an affiliate of Oklahoma Blood Institute after previously partnering with United Blood Services. Oklahoma Blood Institute is the ninth largest, independent nonprofit blood center in the nation. Arkansas Blood Institute was formed at this time to reflect the local commitment to providing for people in the region.
For more information or to make an appointment, contact Arkansas Blood Institute at 877-340-8777 or visit us at www.arkbi.org.
TAC finance subcommittee scheduled to meet in early in October
WHO: Finance subcommittee of the Governor’s Trauma Advisory Council
WHAT: Scheduled Meeting
WHEN: Tuesday, October 4, 3:30 to 5:00 p.m.
WHERE: Freeway Medical Tower, Room 902, 5800 West 10th Street, Little Rock, AR 72204
WHY: This is a scheduled subcommittee meeting for general business related to state-wide efforts to build a trauma system in Arkansas.
Note: The meeting is open to the general public.
Conference Call: For members and guests to attend by conference call, follow these steps:
• To access the conference call, please phone: 1-800-390-5809
• Once you have reached the conference call center, you may use participant code 6612744 to join the meeting by phone
For more information on the trauma system in Arkansas or the Trauma Advisory Council, go to http://www.healthy.arkansas.gov/
WHAT: Scheduled Meeting
WHEN: Tuesday, October 4, 3:30 to 5:00 p.m.
WHERE: Freeway Medical Tower, Room 902, 5800 West 10th Street, Little Rock, AR 72204
WHY: This is a scheduled subcommittee meeting for general business related to state-wide efforts to build a trauma system in Arkansas.
Note: The meeting is open to the general public.
Conference Call: For members and guests to attend by conference call, follow these steps:
• To access the conference call, please phone: 1-800-390-5809
• Once you have reached the conference call center, you may use participant code 6612744 to join the meeting by phone
For more information on the trauma system in Arkansas or the Trauma Advisory Council, go to http://www.healthy.arkansas.gov/
Calling all thespians for auditions this weekend
AUDITIONS FOR THE VILLAGE PLAYERS UPCOMING PRODUCTION OF MY 3 ANGELS WILL BE HELD IN THE OUACHITA BLDG AT PONCE DE LEON CENTER THIS SATURDAY, OCT. 1 FROM 6-8 PM AND SUNDAY, OCT. 2 FROM 2-4 PM.
The play, a comedy, calls for 7 men and 3 women. Shelly Kleinman is Director and Fran Walker, Producer.
Characters are:
The storekeeper, his wife and their daughter. A female shopper who drinks too uch.
Three convicts --a forger, one who killed his unfaithful wife, and the third is a ladies man who killed his stingy uncle.
The owner of the store, his nephew, and a naval officer.
The play, a comedy, calls for 7 men and 3 women. Shelly Kleinman is Director and Fran Walker, Producer.
Characters are:
The storekeeper, his wife and their daughter. A female shopper who drinks too uch.
Three convicts --a forger, one who killed his unfaithful wife, and the third is a ladies man who killed his stingy uncle.
The owner of the store, his nephew, and a naval officer.
State Lands Office now accepts credit and debit cards
Commissioner of State Lands John Thurston is pleased to announce that his office is now accepting credit and debit cards as a form of payment for delinquent property taxes. Right now this service is limited to walk-in customers only with long-term plans to expand it to mail-in, telephone and online payments. “Our customers have been asking for this option for a long time and I am happy to finally be able to offer them the convenience of paying with their debit or credit cards,” says Commissioner Thurston. Other payment options include: cash, check, certified check and money order.
Customers may access their delinquent tax information on our website (www.cosl.org), or call our office at 501-683-3053, to learn how to begin the payment process.
Customers may access their delinquent tax information on our website (www.cosl.org), or call our office at 501-683-3053, to learn how to begin the payment process.
ADH receives $6.2 million
The Arkansas Department of Health (ADH) has received a $6.2 million and $1.5 million grant from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services/Maternal and Child Health Bureau, to provide evidenced based home visiting services for communities with high concentrations of mother and child health issues such as premature and low birth weight births, poverty and child abuse. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the grants are designed to help at-risk families voluntarily receive home visits from nurses and social workers to improve maternal and child health, child development, school readiness, economic self-sufficiency and child abuse prevention.
Dr. Paul Halverson, ADH director and state health officer, said, “This is a great day for families in Arkansas. Times are tough, and some of our state’s moms and babies need some additional care and support. One-on-one home visits from a health professional can mean a big difference in the health and quality of life for many of these children. Arkansas is one of 49 states to receive this home visiting grant. This grant will continue the development of the Arkansas Nurse-Family Partnership home visiting model in six counties (Crittenden, Lee, Mississippi, Monroe, Philips and St. Francis) and allow for expansion into a seventh (Jefferson County).”
Halverson said, “We are proud to be in the company of eight other states that received ‘expansion grants for home visiting’. It is our understanding that we were chosen because Arkansas has already made significant progress towards implementing high-quality home visiting programs and the expansion grant will help bring us closer to a comprehensive early childhood system. Our state and others will serve as a model for what these types of programs can do for our Nation’s families.”
Dr. Jonathan Bates, President and CEO of Arkansas Children’s Hospital said, “This is an outstanding example of the collaboration among state agencies, Arkansas Children’s Hospital and private providers to give families the support needed to make a positive start in life. This is the Natural Wonders Partnership at its best.”
As evidenced by the award of these grants, the Department of Health and its partners including Arkansas Children’s Hospital, Arkansas Children’s Trust Fund, Centers for Youth and Families, HIPPY and Parents as Teachers have proven to be a seasoned providers of high quality home visiting programs and are well-positioned to provide the leadership and collaboration necessary to make a real lifelong difference for Arkansas families.
As part of the Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV) Program, these grants are funded by the Affordable Care Act and are awarded to state agencies that applied for the grants in 49 states across the country.
According to HRSA, research has shown that home visiting programs can improve outcomes for children and families, including improving maternal and child health, reducing child maltreatment, increasing parental employment, and improving the rate at which children reach developmental milestones.
Arkansas lags behind the nation in terms of infant deaths, pre-term birth, women and children in poverty, and the general health of newborns and their mothers.
Formula grant awards totaling $124 million were awarded to 55 eligible agencies including 49 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, the Virgin Islands, the Northern Mariana Islands, and America Samoa.
A total of $100 million in competitive funding was awarded to those states that have sufficiently demonstrated the interest and capacity to expand and/or to enhance the development of their home visiting efforts.
o Expansion Grants: Approximately $66 million was awarded to nine states and jurisdictions
o Development Grants: Approximately $34 million was awarded to 13 states and jurisdictions that currently have modest home visiting programs and want to build on existing efforts. States that successfully complete development grants can compete for future expansion grants.
A comprehensive evaluation is included to assess the effectiveness of services, network development, participant outcomes and innovative practice.
Lists of grant awardees are available at: http://www.hrsa.gov/about/news/2011tables/110922homevisiting.html
For more information on HRSA’s MIECHV program, please visit mchb.hrsa.gov/programs/homevisiting/.
To learn more about the Affordable Care Act, visit www.HealthCare.gov.
Dr. Paul Halverson, ADH director and state health officer, said, “This is a great day for families in Arkansas. Times are tough, and some of our state’s moms and babies need some additional care and support. One-on-one home visits from a health professional can mean a big difference in the health and quality of life for many of these children. Arkansas is one of 49 states to receive this home visiting grant. This grant will continue the development of the Arkansas Nurse-Family Partnership home visiting model in six counties (Crittenden, Lee, Mississippi, Monroe, Philips and St. Francis) and allow for expansion into a seventh (Jefferson County).”
Halverson said, “We are proud to be in the company of eight other states that received ‘expansion grants for home visiting’. It is our understanding that we were chosen because Arkansas has already made significant progress towards implementing high-quality home visiting programs and the expansion grant will help bring us closer to a comprehensive early childhood system. Our state and others will serve as a model for what these types of programs can do for our Nation’s families.”
Dr. Jonathan Bates, President and CEO of Arkansas Children’s Hospital said, “This is an outstanding example of the collaboration among state agencies, Arkansas Children’s Hospital and private providers to give families the support needed to make a positive start in life. This is the Natural Wonders Partnership at its best.”
As evidenced by the award of these grants, the Department of Health and its partners including Arkansas Children’s Hospital, Arkansas Children’s Trust Fund, Centers for Youth and Families, HIPPY and Parents as Teachers have proven to be a seasoned providers of high quality home visiting programs and are well-positioned to provide the leadership and collaboration necessary to make a real lifelong difference for Arkansas families.
As part of the Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV) Program, these grants are funded by the Affordable Care Act and are awarded to state agencies that applied for the grants in 49 states across the country.
According to HRSA, research has shown that home visiting programs can improve outcomes for children and families, including improving maternal and child health, reducing child maltreatment, increasing parental employment, and improving the rate at which children reach developmental milestones.
Arkansas lags behind the nation in terms of infant deaths, pre-term birth, women and children in poverty, and the general health of newborns and their mothers.
Formula grant awards totaling $124 million were awarded to 55 eligible agencies including 49 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, the Virgin Islands, the Northern Mariana Islands, and America Samoa.
A total of $100 million in competitive funding was awarded to those states that have sufficiently demonstrated the interest and capacity to expand and/or to enhance the development of their home visiting efforts.
o Expansion Grants: Approximately $66 million was awarded to nine states and jurisdictions
o Development Grants: Approximately $34 million was awarded to 13 states and jurisdictions that currently have modest home visiting programs and want to build on existing efforts. States that successfully complete development grants can compete for future expansion grants.
A comprehensive evaluation is included to assess the effectiveness of services, network development, participant outcomes and innovative practice.
Lists of grant awardees are available at: http://www.hrsa.gov/about/news/2011tables/110922homevisiting.html
For more information on HRSA’s MIECHV program, please visit mchb.hrsa.gov/programs/homevisiting/.
To learn more about the Affordable Care Act, visit www.HealthCare.gov.
Congressman Mike Ross wants to cut red tape
For generations, America has been the place in the world to start your own business. Our free enterprise system has created some of the world’s most successful companies. This history of success and support has made America the super power it is today.
As a former small business owner myself, I know that opening and operating a small business is no easy task. You face all kinds of challenges, risks and obstacles. So, the last thing our job creators need right now are more obstacles thrown down from the federal government in the form of over-regulation.
While we absolutely need commonsense regulations to protect workers, families and the environment, we must pursue a balanced approach. Too much regulation will continue to force American companies to foreign countries, taking much-needed jobs with them.
According to the Small Business Administration, since 2005, there has been a 60 percent increase in the number of federal regulations that cost our economy more than $100 million. The same agency reports that compliance with federal environmental regulations costs small firms 364 percent more than large firms. This type of over-regulation on our job creators needs to stop.
Recently, I’ve sponsored a number of bills that require the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to revisit some of its most overly burdensome restrictions and reformulate them in a way that makes sense and doesn’t cost us jobs. Among the bills, two are the EPA Regulatory Relief Act, H.R. 2250, and the Cement Sector Regulatory Relief Act, H.R. 2681.
I believe we absolutely must protect the environment, but we must also be realistic about our current abilities and technologies. These bills represent a commonsense, practical approach to regulation that balances environmental protection with job creation and economic development.
I also believe we need to cut the red tape and start looking for more free-market solutions to increase private-sector job growth. On January 18, 2011, President Obama issued Executive Order 13563, calling on every federal agency to review their regulations to ensure they “promote predictability and reduce uncertainty,” “take into account benefits and costs,” and “identify and use the best, most innovative, and least burdensome tools for achieving regulatory ends.” However, independent agencies are not subjected to the executive order, and to date, only one has voluntarily implemented the requirement. So, that’s why I have also been working with my colleagues in the fiscally conservative Democratic, Blue Dog Coalition to urge the nation’s 12 major independent federal agencies to comply with the President’s Executive Order and complete and publish a full review of all of their regulations.
As portions of the Dodd-Frank financial reform bill, which I voted against, take effect, many more financial regulations are being placed on businesses and community banks. So, I have urged the Treasury Department to address its overly burdensome financial regulations that slow job growth and fail to improve consumer protections. Finally, I am also part of an effort to urge the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to eliminate unnecessary paperwork that is overly burdensome to home health care providers and consumers.
The balance between federal regulation and job creation is a very fine line and we must respect the free market and the American principle of independence that have long defined who we are as a country. As your Congressman, I will keep doing everything I can to find commonsense solutions that support our small businesses, create more private-sector jobs and get our economy back on track.
As a former small business owner myself, I know that opening and operating a small business is no easy task. You face all kinds of challenges, risks and obstacles. So, the last thing our job creators need right now are more obstacles thrown down from the federal government in the form of over-regulation.
While we absolutely need commonsense regulations to protect workers, families and the environment, we must pursue a balanced approach. Too much regulation will continue to force American companies to foreign countries, taking much-needed jobs with them.
According to the Small Business Administration, since 2005, there has been a 60 percent increase in the number of federal regulations that cost our economy more than $100 million. The same agency reports that compliance with federal environmental regulations costs small firms 364 percent more than large firms. This type of over-regulation on our job creators needs to stop.
Recently, I’ve sponsored a number of bills that require the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to revisit some of its most overly burdensome restrictions and reformulate them in a way that makes sense and doesn’t cost us jobs. Among the bills, two are the EPA Regulatory Relief Act, H.R. 2250, and the Cement Sector Regulatory Relief Act, H.R. 2681.
I believe we absolutely must protect the environment, but we must also be realistic about our current abilities and technologies. These bills represent a commonsense, practical approach to regulation that balances environmental protection with job creation and economic development.
I also believe we need to cut the red tape and start looking for more free-market solutions to increase private-sector job growth. On January 18, 2011, President Obama issued Executive Order 13563, calling on every federal agency to review their regulations to ensure they “promote predictability and reduce uncertainty,” “take into account benefits and costs,” and “identify and use the best, most innovative, and least burdensome tools for achieving regulatory ends.” However, independent agencies are not subjected to the executive order, and to date, only one has voluntarily implemented the requirement. So, that’s why I have also been working with my colleagues in the fiscally conservative Democratic, Blue Dog Coalition to urge the nation’s 12 major independent federal agencies to comply with the President’s Executive Order and complete and publish a full review of all of their regulations.
As portions of the Dodd-Frank financial reform bill, which I voted against, take effect, many more financial regulations are being placed on businesses and community banks. So, I have urged the Treasury Department to address its overly burdensome financial regulations that slow job growth and fail to improve consumer protections. Finally, I am also part of an effort to urge the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to eliminate unnecessary paperwork that is overly burdensome to home health care providers and consumers.
The balance between federal regulation and job creation is a very fine line and we must respect the free market and the American principle of independence that have long defined who we are as a country. As your Congressman, I will keep doing everything I can to find commonsense solutions that support our small businesses, create more private-sector jobs and get our economy back on track.
MIRLC meeting
WHO: Medical Ionizing Radiation Licensure Committee (MIRLC)
WHAT: Quarterly MIRLC Meeting
WHEN: Tuesday, October 18 at 3:00 p.m.
WHERE: Arkansas Department of Health, Radiation Control / Radiologic Technology Licensure Program (RTL) Office, Suite 100, Room A111, Freeway Medical Building, 5800 W. 10th Street, Little Rock, AR 72204
WHY: The MIRLC meets quarterly and serves as an advisory committee to the Arkansas State Board of Health. The committee consists of ten members appointed by the Governor. The MIRLC adopts standards; may grant, deny, renew, suspend or revoke licenses for any cause stated in the act; adopts, publishes, reviews, and revises such rules and regulations not inconsistent with the law as may be necessary to enable it to carry into effect the provisions of the act. The MIRLC reviews allegations and violations, may conduct disciplinary proceedings and issue subpoenas as provided in the act. The MIRLC reviews RTL Program reports.
Note: For more information on this program, contact Valerie Brown, Health Program Specialist II, (501) 661-2166.
WHAT: Quarterly MIRLC Meeting
WHEN: Tuesday, October 18 at 3:00 p.m.
WHERE: Arkansas Department of Health, Radiation Control / Radiologic Technology Licensure Program (RTL) Office, Suite 100, Room A111, Freeway Medical Building, 5800 W. 10th Street, Little Rock, AR 72204
WHY: The MIRLC meets quarterly and serves as an advisory committee to the Arkansas State Board of Health. The committee consists of ten members appointed by the Governor. The MIRLC adopts standards; may grant, deny, renew, suspend or revoke licenses for any cause stated in the act; adopts, publishes, reviews, and revises such rules and regulations not inconsistent with the law as may be necessary to enable it to carry into effect the provisions of the act. The MIRLC reviews allegations and violations, may conduct disciplinary proceedings and issue subpoenas as provided in the act. The MIRLC reviews RTL Program reports.
Note: For more information on this program, contact Valerie Brown, Health Program Specialist II, (501) 661-2166.
Habitat art auction
On Saturday, October 15, from 5:30-8:30, Habitat for Humanity is holding our "Home is Where the HeArt Is" art show and auction! The event is going to be held at Whispering Pines Community Center, and will feature art, silent auction items, musical entertainment, and a delicious dinner provided by Red Lobster. Tickets are $25 a piece, $40/couple, and can be purchased at the Habitat office. You can also check the event on facebook. We haHabitat for Humanity has over 100 beautiful pieces of art, and there's sure to be something there that fits your taste! Tickets are going fast, and you don't want to miss this great event, so get yours soon!
Habitat for Humanity of Saline County, Arkansas, 404 West Walnut, Benton, AR 72015.
Habitat for Humanity of Saline County, Arkansas, 404 West Walnut, Benton, AR 72015.
Senator Pryor defines FEMA funding in Arkansas
U.S. Senator Mark Pryor said late last week he is disappointed the House of Representatives failed to adequately fund FEMA’s disaster relief efforts in a short-term funding measure designed to keep the government running through mid-November. FEMA’s disaster programs are expected to run dry early next week following a year of unprecedented tornadoes, floods and hurricanes. Without this necessary funding, hundreds of thousands of Americans will continue to wait for emergency assistance, and disaster recovery projects in Arkansas and throughout the nation will remain idle.
“Families in Arkansas and all over the country are struggling to rebuild their lives in the wake of devastating floods, hurricanes and tornados. They need immediate help, not politics in Washington to get in the way,” Pryor said.
According to FEMA, its Disaster Relief Fund had just $175 million as of Friday morning and would go broke by early next week, likely on Tuesday. When the Disaster Relief Fund falls below the $800 million threshold, it operates on an immediate needs funding basis. As a result, FEMA has temporarily suspended approving new applications for aid and reconstruction for all past disasters. Currently, forty states and three territories have disaster recovery projects on hold as a result of the lack of funding. FEMA has halted 472 projects in Arkansas alone, including 85% for rebuilding roads. A county-by-county breakdown is below.
County / Project / Total
Baxter / Roads / $21,213
Benton / Roads / $60,711
Boone / Roads / $177,815
Calhoun / Roads / $17,583
Calhoun / Roads / $74,409
Clark / Public Utilities and Recreational / $120,618
Clarendon / Mitigation / $377,794
Clay / Roads and Public Utilities / $71,671
Cleburne / Roads / $653,518
Cleveland / Roads / $30,771
Conway / Roads and Public Utilities / $74,572
Crawford / Roads and Recreational / $159,424
Crittenden / Public Buildings / $36,131
Cross / Public Buildings / $7,215
Dallas / Roads and Public Utilities / $23,800
Faulkner / Roads / $20,969
Fulton / Roads / $89,068
Garland / Roads and Public Buildings / $65,113
Greene / Roads / $79,492
Hot Springs / Roads and Public Utilities / $23,389
Howard / Roads and Public Utilities / $26,873
Izard / Roads / $14,986
Jackson / Roads / $299,135
Lawrence / Public Utilities / $2,332
Lee / Roads / $293,678
Lincoln / Roads Public Buildings / $89,970
Lonoke / Roads / $72,385
Madison / Roads / $130,648
Marion / Roads / $39,654
Marion / Public Utilities / $1,472
Mississippi / Roads and Public Utilities / $75,371
Monroe / Roads / $44,870
Montgomery / Roads and Public Buildings / $73,855
Nevada / Public Utilities / $46,861
Newton / Roads / $428,138
Phillips / Roads / $6,705
Pike / Roads and Public Utilities / $151,399
Poinsett / Roads and Recreational / $3,895
Polk / Roads & Bridges / $3,019
Saint Francis / Roads and Public Utilities / $40,969
Saline / Roads / $68,437
Searcy / Roads and Public Utilities / $153,233
Sevier / Recreational or Other / $7,284
Sharp / Roads and Public Utilities / $720,825
Stone / Roads and Recreational / $121,417
Van Buren / Roads and Public Utilities / $107,206
Washington / Roads and Public Buildings / $46,248
White / Recreational / $4,583
Woodruff / Roads / $73,877
Yell / Roads / $108,609
“Families in Arkansas and all over the country are struggling to rebuild their lives in the wake of devastating floods, hurricanes and tornados. They need immediate help, not politics in Washington to get in the way,” Pryor said.
According to FEMA, its Disaster Relief Fund had just $175 million as of Friday morning and would go broke by early next week, likely on Tuesday. When the Disaster Relief Fund falls below the $800 million threshold, it operates on an immediate needs funding basis. As a result, FEMA has temporarily suspended approving new applications for aid and reconstruction for all past disasters. Currently, forty states and three territories have disaster recovery projects on hold as a result of the lack of funding. FEMA has halted 472 projects in Arkansas alone, including 85% for rebuilding roads. A county-by-county breakdown is below.
County / Project / Total
Baxter / Roads / $21,213
Benton / Roads / $60,711
Boone / Roads / $177,815
Calhoun / Roads / $17,583
Calhoun / Roads / $74,409
Clark / Public Utilities and Recreational / $120,618
Clarendon / Mitigation / $377,794
Clay / Roads and Public Utilities / $71,671
Cleburne / Roads / $653,518
Cleveland / Roads / $30,771
Conway / Roads and Public Utilities / $74,572
Crawford / Roads and Recreational / $159,424
Crittenden / Public Buildings / $36,131
Cross / Public Buildings / $7,215
Dallas / Roads and Public Utilities / $23,800
Faulkner / Roads / $20,969
Fulton / Roads / $89,068
Garland / Roads and Public Buildings / $65,113
Greene / Roads / $79,492
Hot Springs / Roads and Public Utilities / $23,389
Howard / Roads and Public Utilities / $26,873
Izard / Roads / $14,986
Jackson / Roads / $299,135
Lawrence / Public Utilities / $2,332
Lee / Roads / $293,678
Lincoln / Roads Public Buildings / $89,970
Lonoke / Roads / $72,385
Madison / Roads / $130,648
Marion / Roads / $39,654
Marion / Public Utilities / $1,472
Mississippi / Roads and Public Utilities / $75,371
Monroe / Roads / $44,870
Montgomery / Roads and Public Buildings / $73,855
Nevada / Public Utilities / $46,861
Newton / Roads / $428,138
Phillips / Roads / $6,705
Pike / Roads and Public Utilities / $151,399
Poinsett / Roads and Recreational / $3,895
Polk / Roads & Bridges / $3,019
Saint Francis / Roads and Public Utilities / $40,969
Saline / Roads / $68,437
Searcy / Roads and Public Utilities / $153,233
Sevier / Recreational or Other / $7,284
Sharp / Roads and Public Utilities / $720,825
Stone / Roads and Recreational / $121,417
Van Buren / Roads and Public Utilities / $107,206
Washington / Roads and Public Buildings / $46,248
White / Recreational / $4,583
Woodruff / Roads / $73,877
Yell / Roads / $108,609
Hot Springs Concert Band at the Woodlands Auditorium in October
The Hot Springs Concert Band is pleased to present its autumn concert Sunday, October 16 at 3 p.m. at the Woodlands Auditorium in Hot Springs Village. Sponsored by REMAX of Hot Springs Village, this benefit concert is in support of the band's scholarship program and will feature leading Arkansas composers, Charles Booker, Director of Bands at the University of Arkansas, Ft. Smith, and Lester Pack, Director Bands at the University of Arkansas, Monticello, conducting their own compositions.
Complimentary tickets are now available at the Woodlands box office and from REMAX of Hot Springs Village. Join us Sunday, October 16th 3pm for this special benefit concert.
Complimentary tickets are now available at the Woodlands box office and from REMAX of Hot Springs Village. Join us Sunday, October 16th 3pm for this special benefit concert.
Cats, cats and more cats at the Village animal shelter
Jasmine is a two year old bullseye tabby spayed female.
Betsy is a three year old domestic short hair spayed female.
Boots is a two year old domestic short hair neutered male.
Earthquake along New Madrid Fault
2.5 Md - ARKANSAS
Preliminary Earthquake Report Magnitude 2.5 Md
Date-Time •27 Sep 2011 23:51:32 UTC
•27 Sep 2011 18:51:32 near epicenter
•27 Sep 2011 17:51:32 standard time in your timezone
Location 35.854N 90.101W
Depth 9 km
Distances •5 km (3 miles) W (267 degrees) of Dell, AR
•7 km (4 miles) ESE (115 degrees) of Manila, AR
•11 km (7 miles) NNW (340 degrees) of Victoria, AR
•83 km (51 miles) N (352 degrees) of Memphis, TN
•309 km (192 miles) S (178 degrees) of St. Louis, MO
Location Uncertainty Horizontal: 0.4 km; Vertical 0.7 km
Parameters Nph = 34; Dmin = 3.0 km; Rmss = 0.10 seconds; Gp = 79°
M-type = Md; Version = A
Event ID NM 092711b
Center for Earthquake Research and Information
U.S. Geological Survey
University of Memphis
Preliminary Earthquake Report Magnitude 2.5 Md
Date-Time •27 Sep 2011 23:51:32 UTC
•27 Sep 2011 18:51:32 near epicenter
•27 Sep 2011 17:51:32 standard time in your timezone
Location 35.854N 90.101W
Depth 9 km
Distances •5 km (3 miles) W (267 degrees) of Dell, AR
•7 km (4 miles) ESE (115 degrees) of Manila, AR
•11 km (7 miles) NNW (340 degrees) of Victoria, AR
•83 km (51 miles) N (352 degrees) of Memphis, TN
•309 km (192 miles) S (178 degrees) of St. Louis, MO
Location Uncertainty Horizontal: 0.4 km; Vertical 0.7 km
Parameters Nph = 34; Dmin = 3.0 km; Rmss = 0.10 seconds; Gp = 79°
M-type = Md; Version = A
Event ID NM 092711b
Center for Earthquake Research and Information
U.S. Geological Survey
University of Memphis
Friday, September 23, 2011
THA cancels board meeting
The Hot Springs Village Townhouse Association has cancelled the working board meeting scheduled for October 4.
Arkansas leaders making jobs at home
U.S. Senators Mark Pryor and John Boozman, along with Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) today announced a $2 million grant to jumpstart a jobs initiative project in northwest Arkansas. The project, Launching the ARK, will help develop and grow new startup companies in northwest Arkansas.
Launching the ARK (Acceleration, Resources, Knowledge) was selected as a winning project of the Jobs and Innovation Accelerator Challenge, a competitive federal grant program to promote energy, advanced manufacturing, information technology, aerospace, and clean technology sectors. The challenge is expected to increase the formation of high-growth and existing businesses and boost the creation of high-wage jobs. Nationwide, the program is expected to create 5,000 jobs and 280 new businesses.
“In the IT world, a smart idea combined with right combination of technical assistance and seed money can launch the next Google or other multi-billion company. I look forward to this program’s success,” Pryor said.
“This project will spur innovation and promote the next generation of private sector jobs,” Boozman said.
“Northwest Arkansas has developed tremendous potential in the last couple of decades. We are proving to be an incredible incubator of business and technology, and I look forward to the work our established companies and institutions will do with these up-and-coming businesses to spur economic growth. Congratulations to Launching the ARK – I look forward to seeing the great work they will do for our state,” said Womack.
Winrock International, the University of Arkansas, and the Northwest Arkansas Community College will collaborate on the project, helping develop and grow new technology startup companies in Washington, Benton, and Madison counties. Launching the ARK will establish an annual information technology start up “boot camp” to draw new startup companies from the region and will participate in a national mentoring and commercialization process to help develop IT companies and jobs in the retail, transportation and logistics, and food processing industries. More information about Launching the ARK and the Jobs and Innovation Accelerator Challenge can be found at http://www.eda.gov/InvestmentsGrants/jobsandinnovationchallenge.
Launching the ARK (Acceleration, Resources, Knowledge) was selected as a winning project of the Jobs and Innovation Accelerator Challenge, a competitive federal grant program to promote energy, advanced manufacturing, information technology, aerospace, and clean technology sectors. The challenge is expected to increase the formation of high-growth and existing businesses and boost the creation of high-wage jobs. Nationwide, the program is expected to create 5,000 jobs and 280 new businesses.
“In the IT world, a smart idea combined with right combination of technical assistance and seed money can launch the next Google or other multi-billion company. I look forward to this program’s success,” Pryor said.
“This project will spur innovation and promote the next generation of private sector jobs,” Boozman said.
“Northwest Arkansas has developed tremendous potential in the last couple of decades. We are proving to be an incredible incubator of business and technology, and I look forward to the work our established companies and institutions will do with these up-and-coming businesses to spur economic growth. Congratulations to Launching the ARK – I look forward to seeing the great work they will do for our state,” said Womack.
Winrock International, the University of Arkansas, and the Northwest Arkansas Community College will collaborate on the project, helping develop and grow new technology startup companies in Washington, Benton, and Madison counties. Launching the ARK will establish an annual information technology start up “boot camp” to draw new startup companies from the region and will participate in a national mentoring and commercialization process to help develop IT companies and jobs in the retail, transportation and logistics, and food processing industries. More information about Launching the ARK and the Jobs and Innovation Accelerator Challenge can be found at http://www.eda.gov/InvestmentsGrants/jobsandinnovationchallenge.
Family trail event in Hot Spirngs
Parents can mark their calendars for a pair of kid-friendly trail events planned for Saturday, October 1 at Entergy Park, 530 Lakepark Drive, off of Carpenter Dam Road. Registration begins at 9 a.m., with activities beginning at 10 a.m., followed by door prizes and giveaways.
Children ages 8 and under can ride strollers, wagons, big wheels, tricycles, or bicycles with or without training wheels to “Tikes, Trikes and Trails” along a quarter-mile paved, accessible trails. All bicycle riders are required to ride safety helmets, and bike safety inspections will be available. Each participant will receive a certificate of participation.
Youths ages 9 and up have the opportunity to learn basic mountain biking skills from an experienced mountain bike rider at “Take a Kid Mountain Biking Day.” Youth riders must wear helmets, and all bikes will be inspected on-side by event officials. Youth riders will be supervised on the trail and will complete at least one loop of the ¾-mile Water Tower Loop Trail. Riders will be grouped according to skill level, and all participants will receive certificates of participation.
The event is co-sponsored by the Hot Springs Parks & Recreation Department, Hot Springs Bicycle Association and Parkside Cycle. For information or to volunteer, call 321-6871.
Children ages 8 and under can ride strollers, wagons, big wheels, tricycles, or bicycles with or without training wheels to “Tikes, Trikes and Trails” along a quarter-mile paved, accessible trails. All bicycle riders are required to ride safety helmets, and bike safety inspections will be available. Each participant will receive a certificate of participation.
Youths ages 9 and up have the opportunity to learn basic mountain biking skills from an experienced mountain bike rider at “Take a Kid Mountain Biking Day.” Youth riders must wear helmets, and all bikes will be inspected on-side by event officials. Youth riders will be supervised on the trail and will complete at least one loop of the ¾-mile Water Tower Loop Trail. Riders will be grouped according to skill level, and all participants will receive certificates of participation.
The event is co-sponsored by the Hot Springs Parks & Recreation Department, Hot Springs Bicycle Association and Parkside Cycle. For information or to volunteer, call 321-6871.
Lake Hamilton giving blood
Donors with Arkansas Blood Institute (ABI) this fall will receive a T-shirt, health screenings and Donor Rewards Points, redeemable for merchandise in ABI’s online store, when they donate blood.
One in three people will need blood in a lifetime, so Lake Hamilton Intermediate will host a HERO blood drive 2:15 p.m. to 7:45 p.m., Thursday, October 6, 2011, at the Intermediate Cafeteria on 132 Wolf.
“ABI is very fortunate to have such loyal, giving blood donors,” said Dr. John Armitage, ABI president and CEO. “In order to maintain our three-day supply of blood, it is important for blood donors to donate as often as they are able.”
Each donor will receive a digital radio for the student who made the referral and a t-shirt. Donors will also have the option of supporting the Global Blood Fund by forgoing the T-shirt offered. In this way, a donor can doubly give – both by donating life-saving blood used locally and by assisting blood centers in developing countries with supplies. A monetary donation of similar value to the t-shirt will be made by OBI.
Blood donation can be made every 56 days and those who are 16 years old* and healthy are encouraged to give.
Arkansas Blood Institute provides every drop of blood needed by patients in 17 hospitals in western Arkansas and eastern Oklahoma thanks to its volunteer donors. Since 1958, those needing blood in the area have counted on mobile blood drives and donor centers in Fort Smith and Hot Springs to ensure there is an adequate blood supply. In October 2010, it became an affiliate of Oklahoma Blood Institute after previously partnering with United Blood Services. Oklahoma Blood Institute is the ninth largest, independent nonprofit blood center in the nation. Arkansas Blood Institute was formed at this time to reflect the local commitment to providing for people in the region.
For more information or to make an appointment, contact Arkansas Blood Institute at 877-340-8777 or visit us at www.arkbi.org.
One in three people will need blood in a lifetime, so Lake Hamilton Intermediate will host a HERO blood drive 2:15 p.m. to 7:45 p.m., Thursday, October 6, 2011, at the Intermediate Cafeteria on 132 Wolf.
“ABI is very fortunate to have such loyal, giving blood donors,” said Dr. John Armitage, ABI president and CEO. “In order to maintain our three-day supply of blood, it is important for blood donors to donate as often as they are able.”
Each donor will receive a digital radio for the student who made the referral and a t-shirt. Donors will also have the option of supporting the Global Blood Fund by forgoing the T-shirt offered. In this way, a donor can doubly give – both by donating life-saving blood used locally and by assisting blood centers in developing countries with supplies. A monetary donation of similar value to the t-shirt will be made by OBI.
Blood donation can be made every 56 days and those who are 16 years old* and healthy are encouraged to give.
Arkansas Blood Institute provides every drop of blood needed by patients in 17 hospitals in western Arkansas and eastern Oklahoma thanks to its volunteer donors. Since 1958, those needing blood in the area have counted on mobile blood drives and donor centers in Fort Smith and Hot Springs to ensure there is an adequate blood supply. In October 2010, it became an affiliate of Oklahoma Blood Institute after previously partnering with United Blood Services. Oklahoma Blood Institute is the ninth largest, independent nonprofit blood center in the nation. Arkansas Blood Institute was formed at this time to reflect the local commitment to providing for people in the region.
For more information or to make an appointment, contact Arkansas Blood Institute at 877-340-8777 or visit us at www.arkbi.org.
Malvern blood drive
Donors with Arkansas Blood Institute (ABI) this fall will receive a T-shirt, health screenings and Donor Rewards Points, redeemable for merchandise in ABI’s online store, when they donate blood.
One in three people will need blood in a lifetime, so National Park Medical Center will host a blood drive 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Wednesday, October 5 at the Fordyce Room on 1910 Malvern Avenue.
“ABI is very fortunate to have such loyal, giving blood donors,” said Dr. John Armitage, ABI president and CEO. “In order to maintain our three-day supply of blood, it is important for blood donors to donate as often as they are able.”
Donors can also support the Global Blood Fund by forgoing the T-shirt offered for donating blood. In this way, donor can doubly give – both by donating life-saving blood used locally, and by assisting blood centers in developing countries with supplies.
Blood donation can be made every 56 days and those who are 16 years old* and healthy are encouraged to give.
Arkansas Blood Institute provides every drop of blood needed by patients in 17 hospitals in western Arkansas and eastern Oklahoma thanks to its volunteer donors. Since 1958, those needing blood in the area have counted on mobile blood drives and donor centers in Fort Smith and Hot Springs to ensure there is an adequate blood supply. In October 2010, it became an affiliate of Oklahoma Blood Institute after previously partnering with United Blood Services. Oklahoma Blood Institute is the ninth largest, independent nonprofit blood center in the nation. Arkansas Blood Institute was formed at this time to reflect the local commitment to providing for people in the region.
For more information or to make an appointment, contact Arkansas Blood Institute at 877-340-8777 or visit us at www.arkbi.org.
One in three people will need blood in a lifetime, so National Park Medical Center will host a blood drive 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Wednesday, October 5 at the Fordyce Room on 1910 Malvern Avenue.
“ABI is very fortunate to have such loyal, giving blood donors,” said Dr. John Armitage, ABI president and CEO. “In order to maintain our three-day supply of blood, it is important for blood donors to donate as often as they are able.”
Donors can also support the Global Blood Fund by forgoing the T-shirt offered for donating blood. In this way, donor can doubly give – both by donating life-saving blood used locally, and by assisting blood centers in developing countries with supplies.
Blood donation can be made every 56 days and those who are 16 years old* and healthy are encouraged to give.
Arkansas Blood Institute provides every drop of blood needed by patients in 17 hospitals in western Arkansas and eastern Oklahoma thanks to its volunteer donors. Since 1958, those needing blood in the area have counted on mobile blood drives and donor centers in Fort Smith and Hot Springs to ensure there is an adequate blood supply. In October 2010, it became an affiliate of Oklahoma Blood Institute after previously partnering with United Blood Services. Oklahoma Blood Institute is the ninth largest, independent nonprofit blood center in the nation. Arkansas Blood Institute was formed at this time to reflect the local commitment to providing for people in the region.
For more information or to make an appointment, contact Arkansas Blood Institute at 877-340-8777 or visit us at www.arkbi.org.
Recycle electronic equipment October 1
The Saline County Regional Solid Waste Management District is holding an electronics recycle day for all village residents.
This event is scheduled for Saturday, October 1 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the parking lot of Ponce De Leon Center. Residents are encouraged to bring any electronic devices they wish to dispose of, including computers, monitors, cell phones, televisions, vcr’s, radios or any other electronic devices. There will be no charge to residents for disposal.
Members of a local Benton baseball team will be available to assist residents in unloading their recyclables.
If you have questions, please call public works at 922-5524.
This event is scheduled for Saturday, October 1 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the parking lot of Ponce De Leon Center. Residents are encouraged to bring any electronic devices they wish to dispose of, including computers, monitors, cell phones, televisions, vcr’s, radios or any other electronic devices. There will be no charge to residents for disposal.
Members of a local Benton baseball team will be available to assist residents in unloading their recyclables.
If you have questions, please call public works at 922-5524.
Paving starts Monday
The Village public works department announced the paving contractor, Cranford Construction Inc. has delayed the start date of the asphalt overlay program in Hot Springs Village to Monday, September 26, weather permitting. Cranford Construction will begin with DeSoto Blvd. from Villena, near the west gate, to Calella.
The 2011 program includes the following streets for fall completion: DeSoto Blvd. from Villena to Calella, Sierra Dr., Badajoz Way ,Arias Way, La Mancha Way, Carballo Ln., Arjona Way, Costa del Lago Ln., Delavega Cr., Baeza Way, Cortez Dam, Jarandilla Dr. from Cortez to Mesero, Castano Way, Mollera Ln., Mollera Pl., Patrulla Ln., Gorrion Ln., DeSoto Blvd from Saldana to Ponce E., Maderas Dr. from Country Club to Alteza.
Drivers should use caution and avoid these areas, if possible. All affected neighborhood residents will be notified by flyers at least a day prior to the overlay in their respective areas.
If you have any questions, contact public works at 922-5524 or 922-5528.
The 2011 program includes the following streets for fall completion: DeSoto Blvd. from Villena to Calella, Sierra Dr., Badajoz Way ,Arias Way, La Mancha Way, Carballo Ln., Arjona Way, Costa del Lago Ln., Delavega Cr., Baeza Way, Cortez Dam, Jarandilla Dr. from Cortez to Mesero, Castano Way, Mollera Ln., Mollera Pl., Patrulla Ln., Gorrion Ln., DeSoto Blvd from Saldana to Ponce E., Maderas Dr. from Country Club to Alteza.
Drivers should use caution and avoid these areas, if possible. All affected neighborhood residents will be notified by flyers at least a day prior to the overlay in their respective areas.
If you have any questions, contact public works at 922-5524 or 922-5528.
Crack sealing Village roads next week
The Village public works department announced crack sealing of Village roads will begin next week weather permitting.
Crack sealing will start on Balearic Road from DeSoto Boulevard to 500 feet south of Coronado Drive. The crack sealing on DeSoto Boulevard from Fresno Road, west of the POA administration building, to Carmona Road should start September 28 through 30.
DeSoto Boulevard will narrow to one lane, drivers should use caution and avoid these areas, if possible.
If you have any questions, contact public works at 922-5524 or 922-5528.
Crack sealing will start on Balearic Road from DeSoto Boulevard to 500 feet south of Coronado Drive. The crack sealing on DeSoto Boulevard from Fresno Road, west of the POA administration building, to Carmona Road should start September 28 through 30.
DeSoto Boulevard will narrow to one lane, drivers should use caution and avoid these areas, if possible.
If you have any questions, contact public works at 922-5524 or 922-5528.
Community Fair next week
The Village POA and KVRE 92.9 FM will host the 8th annual Community Fair on Wednesday, September 28 from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the Coronado Community Center.
Approximately 50 clubs, organizations, churches and leagues have signed up to participate in the 2011 community fair. Many door prizes will be available and shuttles will be provided from the Sacred Heart Catholic Church and Village Bible Church parking lots.
The Community Fair provides local clubs, organizations, churches, leagues, etc. a way to introduce themselves to the community and solicit new members. Mark your calendars and join us.
For information, please contact the Coronado Community Center at 922-5050.
Approximately 50 clubs, organizations, churches and leagues have signed up to participate in the 2011 community fair. Many door prizes will be available and shuttles will be provided from the Sacred Heart Catholic Church and Village Bible Church parking lots.
The Community Fair provides local clubs, organizations, churches, leagues, etc. a way to introduce themselves to the community and solicit new members. Mark your calendars and join us.
For information, please contact the Coronado Community Center at 922-5050.
Pryor trying to make rulemaking more sensible
U.S. Senator Mark Pryor teamed up yesterday with a group of bipartisan senators and congressmen to introduce legislation that creates a more sensible and sound rulemaking process.
“We need a 21st Century regulatory system that promotes growth, innovation and job creation. By ensuring all parties have a seat at the table at the beginning of the process, this legislation prevents overly burdensome and drawn-out regulations from interfering with our nation’s prosperity,” Pryor said.
Pryor said the Regulatory Accountability Act of 2011 improves the rulemaking process largely by amending the Administrative Procedure Act to place greater emphasis on early engagement between agencies and affected parties subject to expensive rules. In addition, the legislation requires agencies to finalize rules that have the least burdensome cost to the economy. Specifically, the legislation improves the quality of regulations through changes that would:
Require an agency to consider any reasonable, meaningful alternatives for a new rule, including the potential costs and benefits associated with the rule and alternatives;
Require an agency to issue an Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM) for all major and high-impact rules;
Require an agency to issue a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) or determination of other agency action for all rules;
Makes greater use of formal hearings for high-impact and some major rules, allowing facts and data to be introduced into the record and an opportunity for cross-examination; and
Require an agency to adopt the least costly final rule unless the agency can show that an alternative rule’s additional benefits outweigh the additional costs.
Pryor said he has heard from business owners and community leaders in Arkansas about the consequences of expensive, burdensome regulations. He believes accountability and common-sense regulations have a place in a society that places a high value on safety and rights; however, sometimes agencies do not consider all alternative solutions and costs before issuing regulations.
“From regulating dust on farms to mandating more reflective street signs, federal agencies have made some major blunders leaving others to deal with the economic consequences. Our bill sets forth a rigorous, evidence-based process so these decisions can be made cheaper, better and faster,” Pryor said.
“In my career, I have been both a federal regulatory lawyer and a forest industry chief executive officer. Sadly, one who recently had to close a mill and terminate more than 80 employees because of the threat and risk of compliance with the Environmental Protection Agency’s onerous Boiler MACT rules. All we were burning is carbon neutral wood waste,” said Aubra Anthony, Jr., President/CEO of Anthony Forest Products Company in El Dorado, Arkansas. “Senator Pryor and Senator Portman are our champions for making federal agencies listen to the affected people on the front end of an expensive rule making process. Otherwise, we will continue to squander millions of dollars of investment and send more hard working victims to the unemployment office for dubious environmental benefits.”
Senators Mark Pryor (D-AR), Rob Portman (R-OH), and Susan Collins (R-ME) are sponsors of the Senate version of the legislation. House Judiciary Committee Chairman Lamar Smith (R-TX) and Collin Peterson (D-MN) introduced identical legislation today in the House of Representatives.
“We need a 21st Century regulatory system that promotes growth, innovation and job creation. By ensuring all parties have a seat at the table at the beginning of the process, this legislation prevents overly burdensome and drawn-out regulations from interfering with our nation’s prosperity,” Pryor said.
Pryor said the Regulatory Accountability Act of 2011 improves the rulemaking process largely by amending the Administrative Procedure Act to place greater emphasis on early engagement between agencies and affected parties subject to expensive rules. In addition, the legislation requires agencies to finalize rules that have the least burdensome cost to the economy. Specifically, the legislation improves the quality of regulations through changes that would:
Require an agency to consider any reasonable, meaningful alternatives for a new rule, including the potential costs and benefits associated with the rule and alternatives;
Require an agency to issue an Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM) for all major and high-impact rules;
Require an agency to issue a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) or determination of other agency action for all rules;
Makes greater use of formal hearings for high-impact and some major rules, allowing facts and data to be introduced into the record and an opportunity for cross-examination; and
Require an agency to adopt the least costly final rule unless the agency can show that an alternative rule’s additional benefits outweigh the additional costs.
Pryor said he has heard from business owners and community leaders in Arkansas about the consequences of expensive, burdensome regulations. He believes accountability and common-sense regulations have a place in a society that places a high value on safety and rights; however, sometimes agencies do not consider all alternative solutions and costs before issuing regulations.
“From regulating dust on farms to mandating more reflective street signs, federal agencies have made some major blunders leaving others to deal with the economic consequences. Our bill sets forth a rigorous, evidence-based process so these decisions can be made cheaper, better and faster,” Pryor said.
“In my career, I have been both a federal regulatory lawyer and a forest industry chief executive officer. Sadly, one who recently had to close a mill and terminate more than 80 employees because of the threat and risk of compliance with the Environmental Protection Agency’s onerous Boiler MACT rules. All we were burning is carbon neutral wood waste,” said Aubra Anthony, Jr., President/CEO of Anthony Forest Products Company in El Dorado, Arkansas. “Senator Pryor and Senator Portman are our champions for making federal agencies listen to the affected people on the front end of an expensive rule making process. Otherwise, we will continue to squander millions of dollars of investment and send more hard working victims to the unemployment office for dubious environmental benefits.”
Senators Mark Pryor (D-AR), Rob Portman (R-OH), and Susan Collins (R-ME) are sponsors of the Senate version of the legislation. House Judiciary Committee Chairman Lamar Smith (R-TX) and Collin Peterson (D-MN) introduced identical legislation today in the House of Representatives.
Pryor elaning up
Senator Mark Pryor announced his legislation to ramp-up the export of U.S. clean energy technology and services, and create thousands of jobs in the emerging multibillion-dollar clean energy industry.
Pryor introduced the Clean Energy Technology Manufacturing and Export Assistance Act of 2011 to help the U.S. outpace its global competitors and capture the clean energy industry. His legislation would establish a program within the Department of Commerce to ensure that American clean energy technology firms, including parts suppliers and engineering and design firms, have the information and assistance they need to compete globally.
Pryor introduced the Clean Energy Technology Manufacturing and Export Assistance Act of 2011 to help the U.S. outpace its global competitors and capture the clean energy industry. His legislation would establish a program within the Department of Commerce to ensure that American clean energy technology firms, including parts suppliers and engineering and design firms, have the information and assistance they need to compete globally.
Down to the wire
The Arkansas Lottery Commission has issued a reminder to all who played the Arkansas Million Dollar Raffle: Tuesday, October 4, is the last day to cash a prize-winning Raffle ticket. At 10:30 a.m. October 4, if you are holding a Million Dollar Raffle ticket worth $100 or $1000, it will be worthless.
The Arkansas Million Dollar Raffle produced more than $1 Million for scholarships in Arkansas. It featured 500,000 $10 tickets, which brought gross sales of $5 Million when the sales ended on April 6. The next day, winning numbers were chosen in a random drawing, resulting in two $1 Million prizes, 540 $1000 prizes, and 600 $100 prizes. There were 20,000 instant $20 prizes paid out during the course of the game. In all, 21,142 players won a total of $3 Million in prizes. Draw game prizes must be claimed within 180 days of the drawing, and it is hoped that all winners will come forward before time runs out.
Both $1 Million winners have come forward, one from Sulphur Rock and one from Hot Springs. Those with $100 tickets can cash them at any Lottery retailer. Those still holding $1000 tickets can claim their prize at an Arkansas Scholarship Lottery Claim Center, located in Little Rock, Jonesboro, Camden, and Springdale.
Winning numbers and information about the location of the Claim Centers can be found at www.myarkansaslottery.com.
The Arkansas Million Dollar Raffle produced more than $1 Million for scholarships in Arkansas. It featured 500,000 $10 tickets, which brought gross sales of $5 Million when the sales ended on April 6. The next day, winning numbers were chosen in a random drawing, resulting in two $1 Million prizes, 540 $1000 prizes, and 600 $100 prizes. There were 20,000 instant $20 prizes paid out during the course of the game. In all, 21,142 players won a total of $3 Million in prizes. Draw game prizes must be claimed within 180 days of the drawing, and it is hoped that all winners will come forward before time runs out.
Both $1 Million winners have come forward, one from Sulphur Rock and one from Hot Springs. Those with $100 tickets can cash them at any Lottery retailer. Those still holding $1000 tickets can claim their prize at an Arkansas Scholarship Lottery Claim Center, located in Little Rock, Jonesboro, Camden, and Springdale.
Winning numbers and information about the location of the Claim Centers can be found at www.myarkansaslottery.com.
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Sager sings her heart out
What a way to start the 20th anniversary season of the Concerts Association, Jeri Sager is back at the Woodlands through September 23. Village audiences last heard the “Broadway belter” in October of 2008. She wowed us then and wowed us again last night.
Sager has what I would describe as a full throttle voice, giving it her all on every single note whether quietly pianissimo or loudly fortississimo. She has a gorgeous voice with fantastic support, flawless timing, subtle acting and a stunning presentation. But her most charming and enduring quality is stamina, the show was of the same high-energy from the opening combo of Sweet Charity’s Big Spender and Chicago’s All That Jazz to the closing encore of Cabaret.
The show from 2008 and the show today start the same way but there are lots of new numbers added to Sager’s repertoire. My most favorite new piece is the Jesus Christ Superstar medley with the rock out of Judas’ Superstar and the haunting melody of Mary Magdalene’s I Don’t Know How to Love Him. My first year of high school was in 1970 when this rock-opera took off. It was the first musical to speak to me and it did it again last night thanks to Sager.
My all time favorite song brought back from the previous performance is I Dreamed a Dream from Les Miserables. Sager appeared as Fontine in this Broadway megashow. Dream is just beautiful to start with but Sager’s rich alto tones make the hair stand up on the back of my neck. Sager equates the song to loss of innocence and that is what we hear.
On a lighter note, the Jeri Sager song is back. A cute little diddy demonstrating how to properly say Jeri and Sager. The song ends with audience participation, a quiz.
Sager’s sometimes breathy, oh so rich and always in control voice caresses each word of every song giving it love and light. Several times during the show she gave a shout out to the television show Glee. She confessed to being the first Gleek ever, practicing music from Broadway in her bedroom for at least three hours every day after school when she was growing up. Sager praised Glee for exposing countless people from across the country to Broadway music they might not hear otherwise.
Last night Sager picked tunes from Swing, Oklahoma, Wicked, A Chorus Line, On a Clear Day, How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, Bye Bye Birdie, Porgy and Bess and so much more. Of course, the highlight of the evening is Sager’s salute to her Cats’ character Grizabella. She finesses the song Memory into another hair raising experience.
If you saw Sager when she was here in 2008 you will not be disappointed in this week’s show. If you have never seen Sager before you are in for a delightful, soul stirring surprise.
Sager’s musical director, Scott Wooley, is amazing. He is at the piano totally in sinq with Sager and the band. He makes every effort look easy. I know better. The band, Scott Weckerly on drums, Kevin Madill on keyboards, Phil Dizack on trumpet, Denis Solee on woodwinds, Danny O’Lannerghty on bass, George Tidwell on trumpet, John Hinchey on trombone and Jimmy Bowland on woodwinds get a big hats off. They are seamless support. It is hard to tear your eyes away from Sager but when you take time to notice you will see she is surrounded by spectacular musicians.
This is a terrific show. If you don’t have tickets yet you might try www.hsvtickets.com. The site provides Concerts Association tickets for exchange or sale.
Sager has what I would describe as a full throttle voice, giving it her all on every single note whether quietly pianissimo or loudly fortississimo. She has a gorgeous voice with fantastic support, flawless timing, subtle acting and a stunning presentation. But her most charming and enduring quality is stamina, the show was of the same high-energy from the opening combo of Sweet Charity’s Big Spender and Chicago’s All That Jazz to the closing encore of Cabaret.
The show from 2008 and the show today start the same way but there are lots of new numbers added to Sager’s repertoire. My most favorite new piece is the Jesus Christ Superstar medley with the rock out of Judas’ Superstar and the haunting melody of Mary Magdalene’s I Don’t Know How to Love Him. My first year of high school was in 1970 when this rock-opera took off. It was the first musical to speak to me and it did it again last night thanks to Sager.
My all time favorite song brought back from the previous performance is I Dreamed a Dream from Les Miserables. Sager appeared as Fontine in this Broadway megashow. Dream is just beautiful to start with but Sager’s rich alto tones make the hair stand up on the back of my neck. Sager equates the song to loss of innocence and that is what we hear.
On a lighter note, the Jeri Sager song is back. A cute little diddy demonstrating how to properly say Jeri and Sager. The song ends with audience participation, a quiz.
Sager’s sometimes breathy, oh so rich and always in control voice caresses each word of every song giving it love and light. Several times during the show she gave a shout out to the television show Glee. She confessed to being the first Gleek ever, practicing music from Broadway in her bedroom for at least three hours every day after school when she was growing up. Sager praised Glee for exposing countless people from across the country to Broadway music they might not hear otherwise.
Last night Sager picked tunes from Swing, Oklahoma, Wicked, A Chorus Line, On a Clear Day, How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, Bye Bye Birdie, Porgy and Bess and so much more. Of course, the highlight of the evening is Sager’s salute to her Cats’ character Grizabella. She finesses the song Memory into another hair raising experience.
If you saw Sager when she was here in 2008 you will not be disappointed in this week’s show. If you have never seen Sager before you are in for a delightful, soul stirring surprise.
Sager’s musical director, Scott Wooley, is amazing. He is at the piano totally in sinq with Sager and the band. He makes every effort look easy. I know better. The band, Scott Weckerly on drums, Kevin Madill on keyboards, Phil Dizack on trumpet, Denis Solee on woodwinds, Danny O’Lannerghty on bass, George Tidwell on trumpet, John Hinchey on trombone and Jimmy Bowland on woodwinds get a big hats off. They are seamless support. It is hard to tear your eyes away from Sager but when you take time to notice you will see she is surrounded by spectacular musicians.
This is a terrific show. If you don’t have tickets yet you might try www.hsvtickets.com. The site provides Concerts Association tickets for exchange or sale.
Dense fog advisory for Garland County
THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN LITTLE ROCK HAS ISSUED A DENSE FOG ADVISORY... WHICH IS IN EFFECT UNTIL 9 AM CDT THIS MORNING.
* VISIBILITY: VISIBILITIES OF ONE QUARTER MILE OR LESS ARE POSSIBLE.
* TIMING: DENSE FOG WILL BE POSSIBLE NOW THROUGH MID MORNING BEFORE CONDITIONS IMPROVE.
* IMPACT: COMMUTERS SHOULD USE CAUTION AND ALLOW EXTRA TRAVEL TIME AS REDUCED VISIBILITIES WILL CREATE HAZARDOUS DRIVING CONDITIONS.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...
A DENSE FOG ADVISORY MEANS VISIBILITIES WILL FREQUENTLY BE REDUCED TO LESS THAN ONE QUARTER MILE. IF DRIVING... SLOW DOWN... USE YOUR HEADLIGHTS... AND LEAVE PLENTY OF DISTANCE AHEAD OF YOU.
... WIDESPREAD DENSE FOG EXPECTED TO CONTINUE...
.AREAS OF DENSE FOG HAVE DEVELOPED ACROSS MUCH OF THE NATURAL STATE THIS MORNING. VISIBILITIES COULD DROP TO ONE QUARTER MILE OR LESS BEFORE IMPROVING DURING THE MID MORNING HOURS.
* VISIBILITY: VISIBILITIES OF ONE QUARTER MILE OR LESS ARE POSSIBLE.
* TIMING: DENSE FOG WILL BE POSSIBLE NOW THROUGH MID MORNING BEFORE CONDITIONS IMPROVE.
* IMPACT: COMMUTERS SHOULD USE CAUTION AND ALLOW EXTRA TRAVEL TIME AS REDUCED VISIBILITIES WILL CREATE HAZARDOUS DRIVING CONDITIONS.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...
A DENSE FOG ADVISORY MEANS VISIBILITIES WILL FREQUENTLY BE REDUCED TO LESS THAN ONE QUARTER MILE. IF DRIVING... SLOW DOWN... USE YOUR HEADLIGHTS... AND LEAVE PLENTY OF DISTANCE AHEAD OF YOU.
... WIDESPREAD DENSE FOG EXPECTED TO CONTINUE...
.AREAS OF DENSE FOG HAVE DEVELOPED ACROSS MUCH OF THE NATURAL STATE THIS MORNING. VISIBILITIES COULD DROP TO ONE QUARTER MILE OR LESS BEFORE IMPROVING DURING THE MID MORNING HOURS.
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Newborn hearing screening to be discussed at meeting
WHO: Universal Newborn Hearing Screening Tracking and Intervention Program Advisory Board, Arkansas Department of Health staff and other interested parties
WHAT: Regularly scheduled advisory board meeting
WHEN: Tuesday, October 4, 2011, at 3:00 p.m.
WHERE: Room 906, Freeway Medical Center, 5800 West 10th Little Rock, AR 72204
WHY: The focus of the meeting will be general business of Universal Newborn Hearing Screening in Arkansas.
Note: For more information on the Universal Newborn Hearing Screening Tracking and Intervention Advisory Board please contact Nannette Nicholson at
501-569-8909, or by e-mail: nn@uams.edu.
WHAT: Regularly scheduled advisory board meeting
WHEN: Tuesday, October 4, 2011, at 3:00 p.m.
WHERE: Room 906, Freeway Medical Center, 5800 West 10th Little Rock, AR 72204
WHY: The focus of the meeting will be general business of Universal Newborn Hearing Screening in Arkansas.
Note: For more information on the Universal Newborn Hearing Screening Tracking and Intervention Advisory Board please contact Nannette Nicholson at
501-569-8909, or by e-mail: nn@uams.edu.
Community Development Advisory Committee meeting
The Hot Springs Community Development Advisory Committee will hold a special called meeting from 1 to 2:30 p.m. on Thursday, September 22 in the Board Chambers at City Hall, 133 Convention Boulevard, to evaluate and recommend sub-recipient applications for the fiscal year 2012 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program. For information, contact Gerald Harman, Community Development Administrator, 321-6789.
Rehabilitation subcommittee to meet
WHO: Rehabilitation Subcommittee of the Governor’s Trauma Advisory Council
WHAT: Scheduled Meeting
WHEN: Thursday, September 22, 2011, 1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
WHERE: Freeway Medical Tower, Room 902, 5800 West 10th Street, Little Rock, AR 72204
WHY: This is a scheduled subcommittee meeting for general business related to state-wide efforts to build a trauma system in Arkansas.
Note: The meeting is open to the general public. If you have questions or need directions, please contact the Trauma Section at 501-671-1428.
Conference Call Option: Members and guests who need to attend by conference call should follow these steps:
• To access the conference call, please phone: 1-800-390-5809
• Once you have reached the conference call center, you may use participant code 6612744 to join the meeting by phone.
WHAT: Scheduled Meeting
WHEN: Thursday, September 22, 2011, 1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
WHERE: Freeway Medical Tower, Room 902, 5800 West 10th Street, Little Rock, AR 72204
WHY: This is a scheduled subcommittee meeting for general business related to state-wide efforts to build a trauma system in Arkansas.
Note: The meeting is open to the general public. If you have questions or need directions, please contact the Trauma Section at 501-671-1428.
Conference Call Option: Members and guests who need to attend by conference call should follow these steps:
• To access the conference call, please phone: 1-800-390-5809
• Once you have reached the conference call center, you may use participant code 6612744 to join the meeting by phone.
Road closure through next week
The right lane of northbound traffic in the 100 block of Central Avenue in downtown Hot Springs will be closed daily from 7:30 a.m. until 3 p.m. from Monday, September 26 until Friday, September 30 for wastewater service repairs. Signs will be posted and barricades placed during the workday. The lane will re-open each evening until project completion. Motorists are advised to use caution when traveling near the project area.
Hot Springs advisory group openings
The City of Hot Springs will accept applications until 5 p.m. on Friday, October 21 for two volunteer advisory positions on the Planning Commission and one volunteer advisory position on the Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee.
Currently, there are two vacancies on the Planning Commission, which meets at 6 p.m. on the second Thursday of the month at the City Hall, 133 Convention Boulevard. Planning Commission members are appointed by the Hot Springs Board of Directors.
Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee applicants must be qualified electors of the City of Hot Springs. The commission meets at 5 p.m. on the third Thursday of the month in the City Hall Board Chambers.
Applications are available in the city clerk’s office at City Hall, 133 Convention Boulevard; by fax on request; or online at http://www.cityhs.net/about_hs_boards.html . For more information, contact City Clerk Lance Spicer, 321-6815.
Currently, there are two vacancies on the Planning Commission, which meets at 6 p.m. on the second Thursday of the month at the City Hall, 133 Convention Boulevard. Planning Commission members are appointed by the Hot Springs Board of Directors.
Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee applicants must be qualified electors of the City of Hot Springs. The commission meets at 5 p.m. on the third Thursday of the month in the City Hall Board Chambers.
Applications are available in the city clerk’s office at City Hall, 133 Convention Boulevard; by fax on request; or online at http://www.cityhs.net/about_hs_boards.html . For more information, contact City Clerk Lance Spicer, 321-6815.
Road closure through tomorrow morning
Illinois Street in Hot Springs, between Wade and Montreal streets, is closed until 8 a.m. tomorrow, Wednesday, September 21, for street repairs related to water main breakage. Signs will be posted, and motorists are advised to seek an alternate route.
NOAA evaluated Joplin response
Today, NOAA’s National Weather Service released its 40 page final assessment report on the May 22 tornado that struck Joplin, Mo. The report identifies best practices and makes recommendations to help save more lives during future violent tornadoes. Most importantly, the assessment emphasizes that people must be prepared to take immediate action when a warning is issued.
“The tornado that struck Joplin offers important lessons about disaster preparedness,” said National Weather Service Director, Jack Hayes, Ph.D. “Tragically, despite advance tornado outlooks, watches and warnings, 159 people died and more than 1,000 were injured. At NOAA we will do all we can – working with our partners throughout the weather enterprise and emergency management – to reduce the impact of similar disasters.”
Within days of the tragedy, Hayes sent an assessment team to Joplin to examine warning and forecast services provided to the community, warning communications, community preparedness and the public’s response to tornado warnings.
The team determined that a number of factors contributed to the high death toll. Through interviews with more than 100 Joplin residents, the team found that societal response to warnings is highly complex and involves a number of factors, such as risk perception, overall credibility of warnings and warning communications.
The report includes a number of key recommendations:
· Improve warning communications to convey a sense of urgency for extreme events. This will compel people to take immediate life-saving action;
· Collaborate with partners who communicate weather warnings to develop GPS-based warning communications, including the use of text messaging, smart phone apps, mobile communications technologies, in addition to upgrades to the Emergency Alert System and NOAA Weather Radio;
· Collaborate more throughout the weather enterprise to ensure that weather warning messages sent via television, radio, NOAA Weather Radio, local warning systems such as sirens – are consistent to reduce confusion and stress the seriousness of the threat; and
· Continue to increase community preparedness.
Hayes directed National Weather Service staff to move forward to implement the recommendations as soon as possible. The high death toll from the tornado was also catalyst for the August 17 launch of “Weather-Ready Nation”. Building a Weather-Ready Nation will require the efforts of the entire weather enterprise - the National Weather Service, the private weather industry, emergency managers, partners and academia - to provide better information to the public so that they can make better decisions to save lives and livelihoods.
This was the single deadliest tornado in U.S. history since modern record-keeping began in 1950. Rated EF-5 on the Enhanced Fujita scale, this mile-wide tornado was the largest and most powerful type, and it traveled 22 miles on the ground.
NOAA's National Weather Service is the primary source of weather data, forecasts and warnings for the United States and its territories. NOAA’s National Weather Service operates the most advanced weather and flood warning and forecast system in the world, helping to protect lives and property and enhance the national economy. Visit us online at weather.gov and on Facebook.
NOAA’s mission is to understand and predict changes in the Earth's environment, from the depths of the ocean to the surface of the sun, and to conserve and manage our coastal and marine resources. Join us on Facebook , Twitter and our other social media channels.
“The tornado that struck Joplin offers important lessons about disaster preparedness,” said National Weather Service Director, Jack Hayes, Ph.D. “Tragically, despite advance tornado outlooks, watches and warnings, 159 people died and more than 1,000 were injured. At NOAA we will do all we can – working with our partners throughout the weather enterprise and emergency management – to reduce the impact of similar disasters.”
Within days of the tragedy, Hayes sent an assessment team to Joplin to examine warning and forecast services provided to the community, warning communications, community preparedness and the public’s response to tornado warnings.
The team determined that a number of factors contributed to the high death toll. Through interviews with more than 100 Joplin residents, the team found that societal response to warnings is highly complex and involves a number of factors, such as risk perception, overall credibility of warnings and warning communications.
The report includes a number of key recommendations:
· Improve warning communications to convey a sense of urgency for extreme events. This will compel people to take immediate life-saving action;
· Collaborate with partners who communicate weather warnings to develop GPS-based warning communications, including the use of text messaging, smart phone apps, mobile communications technologies, in addition to upgrades to the Emergency Alert System and NOAA Weather Radio;
· Collaborate more throughout the weather enterprise to ensure that weather warning messages sent via television, radio, NOAA Weather Radio, local warning systems such as sirens – are consistent to reduce confusion and stress the seriousness of the threat; and
· Continue to increase community preparedness.
Hayes directed National Weather Service staff to move forward to implement the recommendations as soon as possible. The high death toll from the tornado was also catalyst for the August 17 launch of “Weather-Ready Nation”. Building a Weather-Ready Nation will require the efforts of the entire weather enterprise - the National Weather Service, the private weather industry, emergency managers, partners and academia - to provide better information to the public so that they can make better decisions to save lives and livelihoods.
This was the single deadliest tornado in U.S. history since modern record-keeping began in 1950. Rated EF-5 on the Enhanced Fujita scale, this mile-wide tornado was the largest and most powerful type, and it traveled 22 miles on the ground.
NOAA's National Weather Service is the primary source of weather data, forecasts and warnings for the United States and its territories. NOAA’s National Weather Service operates the most advanced weather and flood warning and forecast system in the world, helping to protect lives and property and enhance the national economy. Visit us online at weather.gov and on Facebook.
NOAA’s mission is to understand and predict changes in the Earth's environment, from the depths of the ocean to the surface of the sun, and to conserve and manage our coastal and marine resources. Join us on Facebook , Twitter and our other social media channels.
Pryor touts National Jobs Day
U.S. Senator Mark Pryor (D-AR) today introduced a Senate Resolution to promote a private-sector hiring campaign that designates November 1st as National Jobs Day.
Pryor said the legislation designates November 1, 2011 as National Jobs Day. On this day, businesses and corporations are encouraged to kick-start the economy by hiring at least one unemployed individual. Pryor credits Jerry Jones, an executive with Little Rock-based Acxiom for the initiative. Jones and other business leaders have formed uhireU.S. in an effort to rally the American business community to provide jobs that will stimulate the economy.
“The business community will lead America out of this recession by out-innovating its global competitors, but government can help by laying the groundwork. National Jobs Day is gaining traction, and I’m proud to lend my full support to this initiative,” Pryor said. “For each person hired, we subtract one individual from the unemployment rolls, and add one more person paying taxes and spending their paycheck on bills and goods,” Pryor said.
“The backbones of our economy are the million plus US businesses with 50 or more employees.” said Jerry Jones, a business thought leader and Chief Legal Officer of Acxiom Corporation. “If we act in our mutual interest hiring at least one unemployed person by Thanksgiving, we can get the economy on a much better track. Our goal is for over a million people to become employed by the end of November, bringing much needed relief and joy to American homes as well as creating greater demand for goods and services.”
The naming of November 1st as National Jobs Day was also announced today at the Clinton Global Initiative (CGI) conference in New York by uhireU.S. In addition to private sector organizations, Arkansans Wesley Clark, Mack McLarty and Rodney Slater are supporting the campaign.
Pryor said the legislation designates November 1, 2011 as National Jobs Day. On this day, businesses and corporations are encouraged to kick-start the economy by hiring at least one unemployed individual. Pryor credits Jerry Jones, an executive with Little Rock-based Acxiom for the initiative. Jones and other business leaders have formed uhireU.S. in an effort to rally the American business community to provide jobs that will stimulate the economy.
“The business community will lead America out of this recession by out-innovating its global competitors, but government can help by laying the groundwork. National Jobs Day is gaining traction, and I’m proud to lend my full support to this initiative,” Pryor said. “For each person hired, we subtract one individual from the unemployment rolls, and add one more person paying taxes and spending their paycheck on bills and goods,” Pryor said.
“The backbones of our economy are the million plus US businesses with 50 or more employees.” said Jerry Jones, a business thought leader and Chief Legal Officer of Acxiom Corporation. “If we act in our mutual interest hiring at least one unemployed person by Thanksgiving, we can get the economy on a much better track. Our goal is for over a million people to become employed by the end of November, bringing much needed relief and joy to American homes as well as creating greater demand for goods and services.”
The naming of November 1st as National Jobs Day was also announced today at the Clinton Global Initiative (CGI) conference in New York by uhireU.S. In addition to private sector organizations, Arkansans Wesley Clark, Mack McLarty and Rodney Slater are supporting the campaign.
Sunday, September 18, 2011
Concerts Association show reviews
Tuesday night is the opening night of the Hot Springs Village Concerts' Association season with Jeri Sager as the first performer.
Sager, the "Broadway Belter" appeared here at the Woodlands three years ago. She is a dynamic performer and her show is sure to be entertaining.
I will be offering a review of the show Wednesday morning on KVRE radio, 92.9 FM. Host John Chapman and I will discuss the Tuesday night performance. Following the on-air review with John Chapman I will post a more lengthy review on this blog.
I look forward to donning my reviewer hat again. It has been a year since I wrote my last musical/theatrical review. This same arrangement will follow for all of the productions of the Concerts' Association this season. The full season includes Jeri Sager's Broadway, Yesterday Once More, The Vocal Majority, In the Mood and Bowfire. Sounds like a great season, I can't wait to attend opening night of each presentation and let you know just what I think.
Sager, the "Broadway Belter" appeared here at the Woodlands three years ago. She is a dynamic performer and her show is sure to be entertaining.
I will be offering a review of the show Wednesday morning on KVRE radio, 92.9 FM. Host John Chapman and I will discuss the Tuesday night performance. Following the on-air review with John Chapman I will post a more lengthy review on this blog.
I look forward to donning my reviewer hat again. It has been a year since I wrote my last musical/theatrical review. This same arrangement will follow for all of the productions of the Concerts' Association this season. The full season includes Jeri Sager's Broadway, Yesterday Once More, The Vocal Majority, In the Mood and Bowfire. Sounds like a great season, I can't wait to attend opening night of each presentation and let you know just what I think.
Congressman Ross telephone town halls
U.S. Congressman Mike Ross of Prescott will be holding his ninth in a monthly series of telephone town halls on Tuesday, Sept. 20, 2011. Ross said he is hosting the district-wide calls because they provide a unique way for his constituents to ask him questions, get updates on activities in Washington and hear his position on the issues all from the comfort of their own home. These calls are in addition to Ross’s town hall tour, where he is hosting at least one town hall meeting in each of the 29 counties that make up Arkansas’s Fourth Congressional District.
The next call will be held on Tuesday, Sept. 20, 2011, at 7:00 p.m. CT and should last approximately 60 minutes. Any resident throughout Arkansas’s Fourth Congressional District can connect into the telephone town hall by dialing the following toll free number at the designated time and using the included PIN code: Phone: 1-877-269-7289, PIN: 14573. Anyone may listen to the call and specific instructions will be given to callers if they would like to ask Congressman Ross a question.
“The feedback from these calls has been very positive and constituents from all over the district have asked me to continue holding these important events,” said Ross. “Unfortunately, people who work during the day, parents of small children or senior citizens have difficulty leaving work or home to attend a town hall meeting. So, I host these calls because I can bring the town hall right to them, even when my duties require me to be in our nation’s capital for votes. They are an easy and convenient way for people I represent to ask questions, get updates on activities in Washington and hear my position on the issues all from the comfort of their own home.”
Working like a large conference call, constituents will have the opportunity to ask Ross questions and voice their concerns on an array of issues. As on previous calls, Ross will ask a series of survey questions throughout the call to gauge the feelings of the callers toward several issues. Callers will be able to respond by pressing the numbers ‘1’ or ‘2’ on their phone and the survey results will be announced live throughout the call.
“The live surveys provide a way for each caller to share his or her attitude toward a particular issue,” said Ross. “This is an interactive way of allowing all of the callers to participate in the call and share their thoughts as we discuss the important issues facing our nation today.”
Some residents in Arkansas’s Fourth Congressional District may receive an automated telephone call from Ross’s office that will give them the option to be automatically connected into the telephone town hall. In addition, Fourth District residents may dial into the call themselves using the following toll free number and the included PIN code: Phone: 1-877-269-7289, PIN: 14573.
In addition to the Sept. 20th telephone town hall, the next three calls will be held on Tuesday, Oct. 11; Monday, Nov. 14 and Monday, Dec. 5. Details for these calls will be announced in the media and posted online at ross.house.gov/events. Constituents can also sign up for e-mail news alerts to be notified of each telephone town hall event at ross.house.gov and by clicking on the e-news signup icon.
“I look forward to hearing from people throughout Arkansas’s Fourth Congressional District on these calls and at my town hall meetings. It’s these type of public events that help people stay informed, have a direct line to their congressman and share their own ideas on the great challenges that face our nation,” said Ross.
The next call will be held on Tuesday, Sept. 20, 2011, at 7:00 p.m. CT and should last approximately 60 minutes. Any resident throughout Arkansas’s Fourth Congressional District can connect into the telephone town hall by dialing the following toll free number at the designated time and using the included PIN code: Phone: 1-877-269-7289, PIN: 14573. Anyone may listen to the call and specific instructions will be given to callers if they would like to ask Congressman Ross a question.
“The feedback from these calls has been very positive and constituents from all over the district have asked me to continue holding these important events,” said Ross. “Unfortunately, people who work during the day, parents of small children or senior citizens have difficulty leaving work or home to attend a town hall meeting. So, I host these calls because I can bring the town hall right to them, even when my duties require me to be in our nation’s capital for votes. They are an easy and convenient way for people I represent to ask questions, get updates on activities in Washington and hear my position on the issues all from the comfort of their own home.”
Working like a large conference call, constituents will have the opportunity to ask Ross questions and voice their concerns on an array of issues. As on previous calls, Ross will ask a series of survey questions throughout the call to gauge the feelings of the callers toward several issues. Callers will be able to respond by pressing the numbers ‘1’ or ‘2’ on their phone and the survey results will be announced live throughout the call.
“The live surveys provide a way for each caller to share his or her attitude toward a particular issue,” said Ross. “This is an interactive way of allowing all of the callers to participate in the call and share their thoughts as we discuss the important issues facing our nation today.”
Some residents in Arkansas’s Fourth Congressional District may receive an automated telephone call from Ross’s office that will give them the option to be automatically connected into the telephone town hall. In addition, Fourth District residents may dial into the call themselves using the following toll free number and the included PIN code: Phone: 1-877-269-7289, PIN: 14573.
In addition to the Sept. 20th telephone town hall, the next three calls will be held on Tuesday, Oct. 11; Monday, Nov. 14 and Monday, Dec. 5. Details for these calls will be announced in the media and posted online at ross.house.gov/events. Constituents can also sign up for e-mail news alerts to be notified of each telephone town hall event at ross.house.gov and by clicking on the e-news signup icon.
“I look forward to hearing from people throughout Arkansas’s Fourth Congressional District on these calls and at my town hall meetings. It’s these type of public events that help people stay informed, have a direct line to their congressman and share their own ideas on the great challenges that face our nation,” said Ross.
Marketing person hired for Village
Scott Randall, POA general manager is pleased to announce the hiring of Dannet Botkin of Tampa, Florida to serve as marketing manager for Hot Springs Village.
Botkin brings over 16 years of experience in marketing, advertising, media buying and event marketing management. She has worked for international companies as marketing operations manager and in 2008 lived in Barcelona, Spain marketing the North American side of a Spanish owned company. She has successfully developed and launched numerous marketing programs.
Upon returning to the U.S., she relocated to the Tampa Bay area to manage marketing programs nationally for Well Care Health Plans, a fortune 500 company.
“I am very honored and excited to be joining the Hot Springs Village POA as the new Marketing Manager, as well as thrilled to reside in and work for such a beautiful community” Botkin said.
Botkin will begin her duties on October 17. Her parents are residents of Hot Springs Village.
Trauma subcommittee to meet
WHO: Designation Subcommittee of the Governor’s Trauma Advisory Council
WHAT: Scheduled meeting in conjunction with TAC Strategic Planning Retreat
WHEN: Tuesday, September 20
WHERE: Stables Classroom, University of Arkansas Winthrop Rockefeller Institute, Petit Jean Mountain, 1 Rockefeller Drive, Morrilton, AR 72110
WHY: At some point during the TAC Strategic Planning session this subcommittee will have a brief meeting to transact some business related to statewide efforts to build a trauma system in Arkansas.
Note: The meeting is open to the general public.
WHAT: Scheduled meeting in conjunction with TAC Strategic Planning Retreat
WHEN: Tuesday, September 20
WHERE: Stables Classroom, University of Arkansas Winthrop Rockefeller Institute, Petit Jean Mountain, 1 Rockefeller Drive, Morrilton, AR 72110
WHY: At some point during the TAC Strategic Planning session this subcommittee will have a brief meeting to transact some business related to statewide efforts to build a trauma system in Arkansas.
Note: The meeting is open to the general public.
Saturday, September 17, 2011
Village Animal Welfare League blessing of the animals
All Villagers are invited to bring their pets to the blessing, hosted by the HSV Animal Welfare League,
Pastor Ross Worch, Community of Joy Lutheran Church will officiate and bless each pet at a non-denominational ceremony at the Ponce De Leon Center, under the canopy, on Thursday, October 6 at 2 p.m.
For safely, all dogs must be on leashes and cats or small pets in carriers. Photos of pets that have crossed the Rainbow Bridge can be attached to the memorial wreath.
No donations will be taken. However, bags of DRY cat or dog food for families that struggle to feed their pets will be accepted. AWL will deliver donated food to Jackson House for distribution through their food pantry.
Pastor Ross Worch, Community of Joy Lutheran Church will officiate and bless each pet at a non-denominational ceremony at the Ponce De Leon Center, under the canopy, on Thursday, October 6 at 2 p.m.
For safely, all dogs must be on leashes and cats or small pets in carriers. Photos of pets that have crossed the Rainbow Bridge can be attached to the memorial wreath.
No donations will be taken. However, bags of DRY cat or dog food for families that struggle to feed their pets will be accepted. AWL will deliver donated food to Jackson House for distribution through their food pantry.
Friday, September 16, 2011
Hi Son
Hiya Stewart, see you are reading in the UK right now. Hope all is well. More later. Love Mommy.
NOOA response to Joplin
On May 22, 2011, a massive EF-5 tornado struck Joplin, Mo., killing 159 and injuring more than 1,000 people. Within days, National Weather Service Director, Jack Hayes, sent an assessment team to Joplin to survey the damage and examine warning and forecast services provided to the community by the National Weather Service. The team also reviewed warning communications, community preparedness and the public’s response to tornado warnings. The team’s goal was to identify best practices and areas for improvement.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, NOAA, will discuss the findings of that report during a media briefing teleconference on Tuesday.
WHAT: Public release of NOAA’s service assessment for the May 22, 2011, tornado in Joplin, Mo., followed by Q&A with reporters.
WHEN: Tuesday, Sept. 20, 1:30 p.m. EDT
WHO: Kathryn Sullivan, Ph.D., assistant secretary of commerce for environmental observation and prediction, and deputy NOAA administrator. Richard Wagenmaker, service assessment team leader and meteorologist-in-charge of the Detroit Weather Forecast Office. Keith Stammer, Jasper County, Mo. emergency manager.
WHERE: Audio Dial-in: 1-800-619-3530, Password: 56482
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, NOAA, will discuss the findings of that report during a media briefing teleconference on Tuesday.
WHAT: Public release of NOAA’s service assessment for the May 22, 2011, tornado in Joplin, Mo., followed by Q&A with reporters.
WHEN: Tuesday, Sept. 20, 1:30 p.m. EDT
WHO: Kathryn Sullivan, Ph.D., assistant secretary of commerce for environmental observation and prediction, and deputy NOAA administrator. Richard Wagenmaker, service assessment team leader and meteorologist-in-charge of the Detroit Weather Forecast Office. Keith Stammer, Jasper County, Mo. emergency manager.
WHERE: Audio Dial-in: 1-800-619-3530, Password: 56482
Trauma meeting
WHO: Northwest Arkansas Regional Trauma Advisory Council
WHAT: Scheduled Meeting
WHEN: Wednesday, September 21, 2 to 4 p.m.
WHERE: Northwest Arkansas Community College, Shewmaker Business Technology Center, Room 1047, One College Drive, Bentonville, AR 72712
WHY: This is a scheduled meeting of the Northwest Arkansas Trauma Regional Advisory Council region to build a trauma system in Arkansas.
NOTE: The meeting is open to the general public. If you have any questions or need directions please contact the Trauma Section at 501-671-1428.
WHAT: Scheduled Meeting
WHEN: Wednesday, September 21, 2 to 4 p.m.
WHERE: Northwest Arkansas Community College, Shewmaker Business Technology Center, Room 1047, One College Drive, Bentonville, AR 72712
WHY: This is a scheduled meeting of the Northwest Arkansas Trauma Regional Advisory Council region to build a trauma system in Arkansas.
NOTE: The meeting is open to the general public. If you have any questions or need directions please contact the Trauma Section at 501-671-1428.
Hot Springs street closing
South Patterson Street, south of the railroad tracks in Hot Springs, will be closed all day beginning at 8 a.m. on Friday, September 16 for force main sewer construction. Signs will be posted, and motorists are advised to seek an alternate route.
Helping J. R. Fisher's family
JR Fisher, a 17 year Village POA employee was killed in an accident on June 8, 2011. The Hot Springs Village Property Owner’s Association created the JR Fisher Memorial Fund which is dedicated to assisting JR and Karen’s three young children in pursuing their college education.
Donations are being accepted at any Region Bank facility, including the local branch at Desoto and Carmona. The POA has also placed collection jars at the POA golf shops and recreation facilities. Anyone interested in making a donation is encouraged to do.
Donations are being accepted at any Region Bank facility, including the local branch at Desoto and Carmona. The POA has also placed collection jars at the POA golf shops and recreation facilities. Anyone interested in making a donation is encouraged to do.
Street overlay schedule in Village
The Public Works Department has announced the asphalt overlay paving contractor, Cranford Construction Inc. will commence the 2011 overlay program in Hot Springs Village on Monday, September 19, 2011. They will begin with Desoto Blvd from Villena (near west gate) to Calella.
The 2011 program included the following streets to be completed this fall:
Desoto Blvd (Villena to Calella), Sierra Dr.,Badajoz Way,Arias Way, La Mancha Way, Carballo Ln.,Arjona Way,Costa del Lago Ln.,Delavega Cr.,Baeza Way,Cortez Dam, Jarandilla Dr. (Cortez to Mesero)Castano Way, Mollera Ln., Mollera Pl., Patrulla Ln.,Gorrion Ln.,Desoto Blvd (Saldana to Ponce E.)Maderas Dr. (Country club to Alteza)
Drivers should use caution and avoid these areas, if possible. All affected neighborhood residents will be notified (flyers) at least a day prior of the overlay in their respective areas.
If you have any questions, contact public works at 922-5524 or 922-5526.
The 2011 program included the following streets to be completed this fall:
Desoto Blvd (Villena to Calella), Sierra Dr.,Badajoz Way,Arias Way, La Mancha Way, Carballo Ln.,Arjona Way,Costa del Lago Ln.,Delavega Cr.,Baeza Way,Cortez Dam, Jarandilla Dr. (Cortez to Mesero)Castano Way, Mollera Ln., Mollera Pl., Patrulla Ln.,Gorrion Ln.,Desoto Blvd (Saldana to Ponce E.)Maderas Dr. (Country club to Alteza)
Drivers should use caution and avoid these areas, if possible. All affected neighborhood residents will be notified (flyers) at least a day prior of the overlay in their respective areas.
If you have any questions, contact public works at 922-5524 or 922-5526.
Electronic recycling in Village
The Saline County Regional Solid Waste Management District is holding an electronics recycle day for all village residents. This event will be held on Saturday, October 1, 2011 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the parking lot of Ponce De Leon Center. Residents are encouraged to bring any electronic device they wish to dispose of, including computers, monitors, cell phones, televisions, vcr’s, radios or any other electronic device. There will be no charge to residents for disposal. No white goods or other items will be accepted.
Members of a local Benton baseball team will be available to assist residents in unloading their recyclables.
If you have questions, please call public works at 922-5524.
Members of a local Benton baseball team will be available to assist residents in unloading their recyclables.
If you have questions, please call public works at 922-5524.
Hot Springs taking bids for rehab project
The City of Hot Springs will accept bids until 3 p.m. on Monday, September 26 for rehabilitation work located at 509 Bellview Street, as part of the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Housing Rehabilitation Program. The invitation to bid and specifications for scope of work are available weekdays from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. at the Community Development Office, 111 Opera Street.
All contractors must meet EPA requirements for lead based paint safe work practices, and must be licensed and insured. All contractors must attend the bid meeting at the residence at 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday, September 21. All bids must be sealed and include a bid bond check for 5% of bid amount. For more information, contact Gerald Harman, Community Development Administrator, at 501-321-6879 or gharman@cityhs.net.
All contractors must meet EPA requirements for lead based paint safe work practices, and must be licensed and insured. All contractors must attend the bid meeting at the residence at 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday, September 21. All bids must be sealed and include a bid bond check for 5% of bid amount. For more information, contact Gerald Harman, Community Development Administrator, at 501-321-6879 or gharman@cityhs.net.
Note restroom closing
The restrooms at Entergy Park, 530 Lakepark Drive, will be closed on Tuesday and Wednesday, September 20 and 21, for painting and roof repair. They will re-open at 7:30 a.m. on Thursday, September 22.
Register for men's fall softball
The Hot Springs Parks & Recreation Department will accept registrations for 2011 men’s fall draft league softball until 5 p.m. on Friday, October 21. A maximum of 72 players will be accepted. Interested participants may register at Kimery Park, 331 Kimery Lane, on Monday through Thursday from 6 until 10 p.m. Registrations will also be accepted weekdays from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m.at at the Parks Administration Office, 111 Opera Street, Suite A. Draft will occur early the next week. The registration fee is $30 per player, which includes a jersey, courtesy of Branded Ink Apparel. The winning team will receive BP tops and hats.
Games will be played on Wednesday nights at Kimery Park. The 20-game season will last five weeks. Registration may be mailed with an enclosed check, along with name, shirt size, position and contact information, made payable to Hot Springs Parks and Recreation. Registration must be paid in order to get on the draft list. For more information, contact Recreation Superintendent Nathan Neighbors, 321-6871.
Games will be played on Wednesday nights at Kimery Park. The 20-game season will last five weeks. Registration may be mailed with an enclosed check, along with name, shirt size, position and contact information, made payable to Hot Springs Parks and Recreation. Registration must be paid in order to get on the draft list. For more information, contact Recreation Superintendent Nathan Neighbors, 321-6871.
Keeping Garland beautiful
The recent conclusion of Keep America Beautiful (KAB)’s Cigarette Litter Prevention Study at Lake Ouachita, the largest of its kind this year, revealed an overall significant decrease in both cigarette litter and overall litter. The massive project, involving 40 test sites, was made possible by a grant from Philip Morris USA, an Altria company, with additional support from RAI Services Company.
The study, developed by the Hot Springs/Garland County Beautification Commission and the Corps of Engineers, involved selecting each of the sites to either receive full intervention measures, or to receive no intervention and function as a placebo site.
The study compared the effect of a significant intervention that included signage, free pocket and boat/car ashtrays, brochures, and personal interaction with staff, against an equal number of sites that had no intervention at all. A fascinating development that skewed the data was that after meeting with staff, seeing the new signage, and reading the brochures, many people spontaneously began to clean up whole areas, campsites, boat ramps, etc. The volunteers were not encouraged directly in any way, but were obviously not discouraged, either. The final figure for the intervention sites was a reduction in cigarette litter of 96%, taking into account that many of the sites received volunteer cleanups. The non-intervention sites saw an increase in cigarette litter of 54%, even though several of these sites received volunteer cleanups, also.
All the sites were also evaluated for general litter using the KAB Litter Index system. Although most of the sites scored well initially, there was still a significant reduction of 38% in overall litter at the intervention sites. This compares with a slight reduction at the non-intervention sites of 14%, once again due to the volunteer actions. The 38% reduction in litter is also supported by anecdotal evidence supplied by Tad Cooper, the General Manager of Echo Canyon Resort & Marina. “This effort was successful in reducing not only cigarette butts and ashes, but all types of litter,” stated Cooper. “It seems that drawing attention to the cigarette litter issue caused our visitors to take note of all their littering habits and act accordingly. In fact, I have estimated that all types of litter, both in our marina and parking areas, have dropped by at least 40% since the start of the program! Thank you for your efforts in this regard.”
For more information, contact Hot Springs/Garland County Beautification Commission Executive Director Adam Roberts at (501) 655-2161 or adamrobertshsgcbc@msn.com , or visit www.HotSpringsGreen.org.
The study, developed by the Hot Springs/Garland County Beautification Commission and the Corps of Engineers, involved selecting each of the sites to either receive full intervention measures, or to receive no intervention and function as a placebo site.
The study compared the effect of a significant intervention that included signage, free pocket and boat/car ashtrays, brochures, and personal interaction with staff, against an equal number of sites that had no intervention at all. A fascinating development that skewed the data was that after meeting with staff, seeing the new signage, and reading the brochures, many people spontaneously began to clean up whole areas, campsites, boat ramps, etc. The volunteers were not encouraged directly in any way, but were obviously not discouraged, either. The final figure for the intervention sites was a reduction in cigarette litter of 96%, taking into account that many of the sites received volunteer cleanups. The non-intervention sites saw an increase in cigarette litter of 54%, even though several of these sites received volunteer cleanups, also.
All the sites were also evaluated for general litter using the KAB Litter Index system. Although most of the sites scored well initially, there was still a significant reduction of 38% in overall litter at the intervention sites. This compares with a slight reduction at the non-intervention sites of 14%, once again due to the volunteer actions. The 38% reduction in litter is also supported by anecdotal evidence supplied by Tad Cooper, the General Manager of Echo Canyon Resort & Marina. “This effort was successful in reducing not only cigarette butts and ashes, but all types of litter,” stated Cooper. “It seems that drawing attention to the cigarette litter issue caused our visitors to take note of all their littering habits and act accordingly. In fact, I have estimated that all types of litter, both in our marina and parking areas, have dropped by at least 40% since the start of the program! Thank you for your efforts in this regard.”
For more information, contact Hot Springs/Garland County Beautification Commission Executive Director Adam Roberts at (501) 655-2161 or adamrobertshsgcbc@msn.com , or visit www.HotSpringsGreen.org.
Tracing Irish ancestry with the Village Genealogical Society
On Thursday, October 6, Dr. Lindsey’s will be using his own research to demonstrate how it is possible to begin with an Irish immigrant ancestor about whose Irish place of origin relatively little is known, and eventually identify the precise location from which the ancestor came in Ireland, opening doors to information going back several generations beyond the immigrant ancestor.
This lecture will add one set of important notes to the information Dr. Lindsey shared when he first gave this lecture to VGS. He will add the internet sources for doing Irish research, which are rapidly increasing and are very promising sources of information for those researching Irish ancestors.
Dr Lindsey’s tips are designed primarily to help researchers track pre-Famine and Famine emigrants, most of whom were Catholic, from southern Ireland to the U.S. He will focus on sources and records of value to researchers of Irish families on this side of the Atlantic, to help make the preliminary identification of the all-important target location for research in Ireland. Once that target location has been identified, the lecture will offer researchers a wide range of important sources that need to be searched in Ireland to identify ancestors, and tips on how to use these sources
William D. (Bill) Lindsey is a native Arkansan who has been actively engaged in genealogical research for over 30 years and needs no introduction to VGS members as he has shared his knowledge with our society many times. He is a member of the board of Arkansas Genealogical Society and he has published genealogical articles in various journals. He holds a Ph.D. in theology from the University of St. Michael's College in Toronto, a M.A. degree in theology from the same school, and a M.A. in English from Tulane University
The Village Genealogical Society meets the first Thursday of each month (except July and August) at the Coronado Center, Room 6, at 2 PM. Anyone interested in family research is welcome to attend. Please call Bill Patterson at 922-6965 or Valerie Hartnett at 922-6922.
This lecture will add one set of important notes to the information Dr. Lindsey shared when he first gave this lecture to VGS. He will add the internet sources for doing Irish research, which are rapidly increasing and are very promising sources of information for those researching Irish ancestors.
Dr Lindsey’s tips are designed primarily to help researchers track pre-Famine and Famine emigrants, most of whom were Catholic, from southern Ireland to the U.S. He will focus on sources and records of value to researchers of Irish families on this side of the Atlantic, to help make the preliminary identification of the all-important target location for research in Ireland. Once that target location has been identified, the lecture will offer researchers a wide range of important sources that need to be searched in Ireland to identify ancestors, and tips on how to use these sources
William D. (Bill) Lindsey is a native Arkansan who has been actively engaged in genealogical research for over 30 years and needs no introduction to VGS members as he has shared his knowledge with our society many times. He is a member of the board of Arkansas Genealogical Society and he has published genealogical articles in various journals. He holds a Ph.D. in theology from the University of St. Michael's College in Toronto, a M.A. degree in theology from the same school, and a M.A. in English from Tulane University
The Village Genealogical Society meets the first Thursday of each month (except July and August) at the Coronado Center, Room 6, at 2 PM. Anyone interested in family research is welcome to attend. Please call Bill Patterson at 922-6965 or Valerie Hartnett at 922-6922.
Be strong, give blood
Hot Springs Village community members can feel good with their Arkansas Blood Institute (ABI) blood drives scheduled for:
Tuesday, September 27
· 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., Hot Springs Village Coronado Center, 150 Ponderosa Lane
Thursday, September 29
· 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Hot Springs Village POA, Ponce Center Room A, 1101 DeSoto Boulevard
Donors will not only be saving up to three lives with each donation, they’ll also receive a T-shirt, health screenings and Donor Rewards points, redeemable for items in ABI’s online store.
“Patients have needs 365-days-a-year,” said Dr. John Armitage, ABI president and CEO. “We are grateful to our donors and Hot Springs Village Coronado Center for encouraging blood donation this fall.”
Because there is no substitute for blood, the supply must constantly be renewed.
Although all blood types are needed, those with O-negative type blood are especially encouraged to donate. According to the American Association of Blood Banks, those with O-negative blood type make up only nine percent of the national population. However, O-negative blood can be used by anyone in an emergency situation when a patient’s blood type has not yet been identified.
Arkansas Blood Institute provides every drop of blood needed by patients in 17 hospitals in western Arkansas and eastern Oklahoma thanks to its volunteer donors. Since 1958, those needing blood in the area have counted on mobile blood drives and donor centers in Fort Smith and Hot Springs to ensure there is an adequate blood supply. In October, it became an affiliate of Oklahoma Blood Institute after previously partnering with United Blood Services. Oklahoma Blood Institute is the ninth largest, independent nonprofit blood center in the nation. Arkansas Blood Institute was formed at this time to reflect the local commitment to providing for people in the region.
Tuesday, September 27
· 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., Hot Springs Village Coronado Center, 150 Ponderosa Lane
Thursday, September 29
· 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Hot Springs Village POA, Ponce Center Room A, 1101 DeSoto Boulevard
Donors will not only be saving up to three lives with each donation, they’ll also receive a T-shirt, health screenings and Donor Rewards points, redeemable for items in ABI’s online store.
“Patients have needs 365-days-a-year,” said Dr. John Armitage, ABI president and CEO. “We are grateful to our donors and Hot Springs Village Coronado Center for encouraging blood donation this fall.”
Because there is no substitute for blood, the supply must constantly be renewed.
Although all blood types are needed, those with O-negative type blood are especially encouraged to donate. According to the American Association of Blood Banks, those with O-negative blood type make up only nine percent of the national population. However, O-negative blood can be used by anyone in an emergency situation when a patient’s blood type has not yet been identified.
Arkansas Blood Institute provides every drop of blood needed by patients in 17 hospitals in western Arkansas and eastern Oklahoma thanks to its volunteer donors. Since 1958, those needing blood in the area have counted on mobile blood drives and donor centers in Fort Smith and Hot Springs to ensure there is an adequate blood supply. In October, it became an affiliate of Oklahoma Blood Institute after previously partnering with United Blood Services. Oklahoma Blood Institute is the ninth largest, independent nonprofit blood center in the nation. Arkansas Blood Institute was formed at this time to reflect the local commitment to providing for people in the region.
Thursday, September 15, 2011
The Muses in concert at Garvan Woodland Gardens' Anthony Chapel
The Muses Creative Artistry Project, a non-profit arts organization dedicated to preserving classical art and music through performance and education, will present the third concert in their "Four Seasons in Art & Song" series, Magic Flute Cocktail, in the Anthony Chapel at Gavan Woodland Gardens beginning at 3 p.m. on September 18. The concert will feature opera "appetizers" by eight talented singers. Cost is $25.
To purchase tickets call 501-463-4514 or log on to www.themusesproject.org.
To purchase tickets call 501-463-4514 or log on to www.themusesproject.org.
Learn about roses at Garvan Woodland Gardens
Gardening 101 and 201 on September 29 in the Magnolia Room at Gavan Woodland Gardens
Topic: "Heritage Roses" - 9:30 a.m. to 12 noon
Topic: "Seed Saving" - 1 to 3 p.m.
Master Gardeners Jane Gulley and Georgia Harris will present the morning session on heritage roses. They will give on overview of the old-fashioned blooms and talk about the Mount Holly Cemetery in Little Rock, where the roses are grown and maintained by the Pulaski County master gardeners.
Herb Culver of Bean Mountain Farms will discuss seed saving during this hands-on Gardening 201 class focusing on the proper timing and harvesting techniques needed to save the highest quality seeds from your garden. Tomatoes, peppers, herbs, flowers, and other vegetables will be covered. This special lecture is sponsored by the Richard W. Averill Foundation, Garland County Master Gardeners, Ouachita Hosta and Shade Plant Society, and the Men's Village Garden Club.
Topic: "Heritage Roses" - 9:30 a.m. to 12 noon
Topic: "Seed Saving" - 1 to 3 p.m.
Master Gardeners Jane Gulley and Georgia Harris will present the morning session on heritage roses. They will give on overview of the old-fashioned blooms and talk about the Mount Holly Cemetery in Little Rock, where the roses are grown and maintained by the Pulaski County master gardeners.
Herb Culver of Bean Mountain Farms will discuss seed saving during this hands-on Gardening 201 class focusing on the proper timing and harvesting techniques needed to save the highest quality seeds from your garden. Tomatoes, peppers, herbs, flowers, and other vegetables will be covered. This special lecture is sponsored by the Richard W. Averill Foundation, Garland County Master Gardeners, Ouachita Hosta and Shade Plant Society, and the Men's Village Garden Club.
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