The person of interest in the murder of Hot Springs Village Police dispatcher Dawna Natzke, Kevin Duck, is no longer a guest of the Garland County Detention Center.
The Garland County Sheriff's Department spokesman, James "Corky" Martin said, "I just received information that Kevin Duck was released on a $15,000.00 bond, in Hot Spring County, as a result of a probation or parole hearing that was held today in that county. As the housing agency for Hot Spring County, we have no information on the details of the hearing or of that release."
Martin added, Duck "is still a person of interest in the Natzke homicide and we have no updates on that case at this time." No charges have been brought against Duck in the Natzke murder.
Duck is the last person known to have seen Natzke alive. The two attended a Christmas party at the rented home of Village POA general manager Scott Randall. According to a witness Duck forced Natzke to leave the party. She left without her purse or her mother, whom she brought to the party.
The witness heard Natzke scream at one point outside of Randall's house. The two drove away in Natzke's car. Days later Natzke's car was found burned out in the Ouachita Forrest. Natzke's body was found in a heavily wooded area of the county over a week later.
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Two Dachshunds available right now
Kelly Vet Clinic, (501) 623-5781, has two Dachshunds who's owner died and are due to be put to sleep. They have until Thursday. They are male and female, fully vetted.... 12 and 14 years old. they will be kept at Kelly's until Thursday and then if no one takes them, they are to be put to sleep. If you have room in your home for two lovable Dachshunds, please call Kelly's as soon as possible.
MPO meeting scheduled
The Hot Springs Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) Technical Committee will meet at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, March 6 at the Transportation Depot, 100 Broadway Terrace. Items for discussion include the Project Update, an update on Highway 270, the 2013-2016 draft of the State Transportation Improvements Program and other public business. The public is encouraged to attend. For more information, contact MPO Study Director Dianne Morrison, 321-4804.
Tree pruning along Convention Boulevard
On Thursday, March 1, Urban Forestry and Street Division crews will close off all parking spaces on the south side of Convention Boulevard in Hot Springs for tree pruning.
Get your plate in shape
March is National Nutrition Month® and a good time to “Get Your Plate in Shape.” Arkansas was named the ninth most obese state in the country, according to the eighth annual F as in Fat: How Obesity Threatens America's Future 2011, a report from the Trust for America's Health (TFAH) and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF). In addition, nearly one-third of our state’s adults – 30.6 percent – are obese.
While these statistics are staggering, they represent only part of the health problem in Arkansas. Obesity is a primary contributor to serious chronic illnesses like diabetes and heart disease. According to the Arkansas Department of Health, 53 percent of Arkansas adults are living with at least one chronic disease.
Eating healthier and being more active can help prevent these chronic illnesses. The Arkansas Coalition for Obesity Prevention (ArCOP) wants to help Arkansans “Get Their Plates in Shape” during National Nutrition Month® this March.
Get Your Plate in Shape is an initiative of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics to show what kinds and how much of each food group should make up a healthy plate for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Half of every plate should be made up of fruits and vegetables, and at least half of all grains you consume should be whole grain. Other tips to follow to Get Your Plate in Shape are to switch to fat-free or low-fat milk; vary protein from meat to beans, nuts, fish, poultry and eggs; reduce sodium; reduce calories from fats and sugars; eat smaller portions and enjoy every bite; and be physically active most days of the week by doing something you enjoy – playing, dancing, walking, gardening, etc.
“National Nutrition Month is a great time to recognize the importance of healthy eating for obesity prevention,” said Dr. Joe Thompson, Arkansas Surgeon General and Director of the Arkansas Center for Health Improvement. “Obesity is a true epidemic, one that every family is susceptible to. Simply put, too many of us are consuming more calories than we burn. Let’s restore ‘energy balance’ in our lives. Starting this month, do something physically active every day, give up sodas for the month and take concrete steps toward a healthier diet. The USDA My Plate is an easy guide families can use to help make healthy nutrition choices.”
For more information:
Ideas for getting your plate in shape: http://www.choosemyplate.gov/
National Nutrition Month and how to get your plate in shape: http://www.eatright.org/.
The Arkansas Coalition for Obesity Prevention (ArCOP) is a volunteer organization made up of individuals from a diverse group of organizations who share a mission to improve the health of all Arkansas communities by increasing physical activity and healthy eating to reduce and prevent obesity. For more information, visit http://www.arkansasobesity.org/.
2012 Hometown Health Improvement Sustainability Conference
Today, February 28, and Wednesday, February 29, the Arkansas Department of Health Hometown Health Improvement (HHI) Section will host its 4th Annual HHI Sustainability Conference at the Wyndham Hotel in North Little Rock, AR. Pre-Conference Workshops will be available on Writing SMART Objectives and Social Media beginning at 9am. The Conference will begin at 11:30am with a welcome and overview of Healthy People 2020 by Andi Ridgway, HHI Branch Chief and Principal Investigator with the Arkansas Department of Health.
A luncheon panel of experts will discuss “Building Health Communities in the Face of a Changing Landscapes” and address key issues such as: increasing health care costs and the widespread lack of insurance coverage, increasing obesity and related chronic diseases, and changing demographics and health inequity. Dr. Maya Rockeymoore, the President and CEO of Global Policy Solutions in Washington, DC, will provide a keynote address titled, “In Search of Apples: Building Health Across Communities”. Concurrent Sessions will be available on both days.
This Conference is targeted toward guiding coalitions, community members and other interested parties to help all Arkansans have a healthier future by implementing the following objectives within their coalitions and/or communities:
(1) To assist communities to develop, implement and monitor a community health improvement plan using Healthy People 2020 goals and objectives that are based on community priorities;
(2) To engage multiple sectors to take actions to strengthen policies and improve practices that are driven by evidence;
(3) To highlight community successes in a variety in venues.
A luncheon panel of experts will discuss “Building Health Communities in the Face of a Changing Landscapes” and address key issues such as: increasing health care costs and the widespread lack of insurance coverage, increasing obesity and related chronic diseases, and changing demographics and health inequity. Dr. Maya Rockeymoore, the President and CEO of Global Policy Solutions in Washington, DC, will provide a keynote address titled, “In Search of Apples: Building Health Across Communities”. Concurrent Sessions will be available on both days.
This Conference is targeted toward guiding coalitions, community members and other interested parties to help all Arkansans have a healthier future by implementing the following objectives within their coalitions and/or communities:
(1) To assist communities to develop, implement and monitor a community health improvement plan using Healthy People 2020 goals and objectives that are based on community priorities;
(2) To engage multiple sectors to take actions to strengthen policies and improve practices that are driven by evidence;
(3) To highlight community successes in a variety in venues.
Message from U.S. Congressman Mike Ross
This year, I will continue hosting a series of telephone town hall meetings to listen to you and to get your opinion on the issues before Congress. These monthly telephone town hall meetings are the result of your feedback and popular demand.
The response from these calls has been very positive and many of you from all over the district have asked me to continue holding these events. They are an easy and convenient way for all residents of Arkansas’s Fourth Congressional District to participate in your government and to share the concerns that affect you and your families. As this new Congress considers important issues on everything from the budget to energy policy to jobs, my job is to listen to those I represent and that has always been my pledge to you.
This year’s calls will be held on Monday, March 19; Tuesday, May 15; Tuesday, July 31; and, Monday, October 1. Details for these calls will be announced in the media, posted online at ross.house.gov and announced in my e-news updates. Be sure you subscribe to my e-mail news alerts so that you will be notified of each telephone town hall event. Just visit ross.house.gov and click on E-News Sign Up to stay informed.
Working like a large conference call, these telephone town hall meetings will provide you the opportunity to ask questions and voice your concerns on an array of issues. In addition to taking your questions, I will also ask a series of survey questions throughout the call to gauge your feelings toward several different issues. You will be able to respond by pressing the numbers on your telephone keypad and the survey results will be announced live throughout the call.
These live surveys provide a way for each of you to share your attitude toward the topic at hand. This is an interactive way for everyone on the call to participate all at once and share your thoughts as we discuss the important issues facing our nation today.
Some of you may receive an automated telephone call giving you the option to be automatically connected into the telephone town hall meeting. In addition, any Fourth District resident may dial into the call using the following toll free number and the included PIN code: Phone: 1-877-229-8493, PIN: 14573. Each telephone town hall will last approximately 60 minutes. The four scheduled telephone town halls this year will be held on:
Monday, March 19, 7:05 p.m. CST
Tuesday, May 15, 7 p.m. CST
Tuesday, July 31, 7 p.m. CST
Monday, October 1, 7 p.m. CST
I look forward to hearing from you and from everyone throughout Arkansas’s Fourth Congressional District. These calls will help you stay informed, have a direct line to your congressman and share your own ideas on the great challenges that face our nation. This technology allows me to bring the discussion right to you and to the thousands of working families, parents of small children and senior citizens here in Arkansas’s Fourth District, even when my duties require me to be in our nation’s capital for votes.
Sincerely,
Mike Ross
The response from these calls has been very positive and many of you from all over the district have asked me to continue holding these events. They are an easy and convenient way for all residents of Arkansas’s Fourth Congressional District to participate in your government and to share the concerns that affect you and your families. As this new Congress considers important issues on everything from the budget to energy policy to jobs, my job is to listen to those I represent and that has always been my pledge to you.
This year’s calls will be held on Monday, March 19; Tuesday, May 15; Tuesday, July 31; and, Monday, October 1. Details for these calls will be announced in the media, posted online at ross.house.gov and announced in my e-news updates. Be sure you subscribe to my e-mail news alerts so that you will be notified of each telephone town hall event. Just visit ross.house.gov and click on E-News Sign Up to stay informed.
Working like a large conference call, these telephone town hall meetings will provide you the opportunity to ask questions and voice your concerns on an array of issues. In addition to taking your questions, I will also ask a series of survey questions throughout the call to gauge your feelings toward several different issues. You will be able to respond by pressing the numbers on your telephone keypad and the survey results will be announced live throughout the call.
These live surveys provide a way for each of you to share your attitude toward the topic at hand. This is an interactive way for everyone on the call to participate all at once and share your thoughts as we discuss the important issues facing our nation today.
Some of you may receive an automated telephone call giving you the option to be automatically connected into the telephone town hall meeting. In addition, any Fourth District resident may dial into the call using the following toll free number and the included PIN code: Phone: 1-877-229-8493, PIN: 14573. Each telephone town hall will last approximately 60 minutes. The four scheduled telephone town halls this year will be held on:
Monday, March 19, 7:05 p.m. CST
Tuesday, May 15, 7 p.m. CST
Tuesday, July 31, 7 p.m. CST
Monday, October 1, 7 p.m. CST
I look forward to hearing from you and from everyone throughout Arkansas’s Fourth Congressional District. These calls will help you stay informed, have a direct line to your congressman and share your own ideas on the great challenges that face our nation. This technology allows me to bring the discussion right to you and to the thousands of working families, parents of small children and senior citizens here in Arkansas’s Fourth District, even when my duties require me to be in our nation’s capital for votes.
Sincerely,
Mike Ross
March is colorectal cancer awareness month
Colon cancer is the second deadliest cancer in the United States. Yet, when the signs and symptoms are recognized early, colon cancer is treatable.
If you would like a more in-depth report on this topic, the Radiological Society of North America has physician experts available at aglowski@rsna.org.
If you would like a more in-depth report on this topic, the Radiological Society of North America has physician experts available at aglowski@rsna.org.
Lots to do at Lake Catherine in March
Saturday, March 10
8:30 a.m. - 9:15 a.m. BIRDING BASICS
Arkansas is home to many birds and a corridor for lots of migratory birds. Learn the basics in birding and help us look for some of our feathered friends today. Bring binoculars if you have them; if not we’ll have some for you to use. Meeting place: Trailhead
Admission: Free
10 a.m. - 11 a.m. LAKE TOUR
Sign up in advance for a relaxing cruise on Lake Catherine. Sit back and enjoy the afternoon breezes as we explore this fascinating area of the Ouachita Mountains. Seating is limited; to register, call (501) 844-4176 or come by the visitor center. Meeting place: Marina
Admission: Free
2 p.m. - 3 p.m. WE ALL NEED TREES
Examine various products and determine which ones are made from trees. You may be surprised what part of a tree may be used. Learn ways that trees are used to make products and ways that these products can be conserved. Meeting place: Amphitheater
Admission: Free
6 p.m. - 6:45 p.m. NIGHT SOUNDS
Join a park interpreter for this wonderfully illustrated program about the sounds you hear at night. Is it a frog or a cricket? What are the sounds of spring, are they different from what we hear in the fall? Meeting place: Amphitheater
Admission: Free
Sunday, March 11
10 a.m. - 11 a.m. LAKE TOUR
Sign up in advance for a relaxing cruise on Lake Catherine. Sit back and enjoy the afternoon breezes as we explore this fascinating area of the Ouachita Mountains. Seating is limited; to register, call (501) 844-4176 or come by the visitor center. Meeting place: Marina
Admission: Free
3:30 p.m. - 4 p.m. CATCH THE SUN
Meet a park interpreter to create a lizard sun catcher. This activity provides a fun way for families to create special state park memories. Meeting place: Nature Cabin
Admission: Free
Wednesday, March 14
9 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. MAKE YOUR OWN BUG
Have you seen many bugs during your visit to Lake Catherine State Park? Meet Park Interpreter Megan and learn how to make your own “cute as a bug” bug to take home with you. Meeting place: Trailhead
Admission: Free
3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. LAKE TOUR
Sign up in advance for a relaxing cruise on Lake Catherine. Sit back and enjoy the afternoon breezes as we explore this fascinating area of the Ouachita Mountains. Seating is limited; to register, call (501) 844-4176 or come by the visitor center. Meeting place: Marina
Admission: Free
Thursday, March 15
9 a.m. - 10 a.m. LITTER WE KNOW
Litter can be very harmful to wildlife that encounters it. Discarded fishing line can wrap the legs, wings, or beaks of waterfowl such as geese and herons. When the fishing line wraps around its beak, a bird cannot feed itself. Recycling can help solve this problem. Join a park interpreter today and use recycled items to create an artful masterpiece! Meeting place: Trailhead
Admission: Free
3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. LAKE TOUR
Sign up in advance for a relaxing cruise on Lake Catherine. Sit back and enjoy the afternoon breezes as we explore this fascinating area of the Ouachita Mountains. Seating is limited; to register, call (501) 844-4176 or come by the visitor center. Meeting place: Marina
Admission: Free
Friday, March 16
2 p.m. - 3 p.m. SKINS-N-SKULLS
What mammals would you expect to inhabit Lake Catherine State Park? Join a park interpreter today to discover their fascinating adaptations. Children and adults alike are invited to explore the world of mammals through hands-on exploration. Meeting place: Amphitheater
Admission: Free
6 p.m. - 6:45 p.m. SPIDERS OF ARKANSAS
Join the park interpreter for this beautifully illustrated program about spiders. Discover answers to questions such as do all spiders have venom, why do they weave a web and how do they do that? Is a spider’s blood really blue? See beautiful pictures of spiders and hear their stories. Meeting place: Amphitheater
Admission: Free
Saturday, March 17
10 a.m. - 11 a.m. LAKE TOUR
Sign up in advance for a relaxing cruise on Lake Catherine. Sit back and enjoy the morning breezes as we explore this fascinating area of the Ouachita Mountains. Seating is limited; to register, call (501) 844-4176 or stop by the visitor center. Meeting place: Marina
Admission: Free
11 a.m. - 2 p.m. DUTCH OVEN OUTDOOR COOKING WORKSHOP: THE BASICS
Food always tastes better cooked outside, and cooking over coals in cast-iron Dutch ovens is a longstanding State Park tradition. Join us for this hands-on Dutch oven demonstration. You will receive a fully cooked meal, a recipe and cooking manual, and a Dutch oven for you to take home. Contact the park to register. Space is limited. Meeting place: Fire Ring Near Trailhead
Admission: $30
4 p.m. - 4:45 p.m. ARKANSAS FURBEARERS
You are invited to explore the world of mammals through hands-on exploration. Meet a park interpreter to get your chance to feel the soft fur of several of Arkansas’s furbearers. Meeting place: Ampitheater
Admission: Free
6 p.m. - 6:45 p.m. OWLS OF LAKE CATHERINE
Join the park interpreter to learn a little about these wise old birds! We'll show you which owl is big and brave enough to eat a skunk and how they glide through the air silently to capture prey. Meeting place: Amphitheater
Admission: Free
Sunday, March 18
10 a.m. - 11 a.m. LAKE TOUR
Sign up in advance for a relaxing cruise on Lake Catherine. Sit back and enjoy the morning breezes as we explore this fascinating area of the Ouachita Mountains. Seating is limited; to register, call (501) 844-4176 or stop by the visitor center. Meeting place: Marina
Admission: Free
1 p.m. - 2 p.m. BEGINNING BIRD WATCHING HIKE
Few past times are as enjoyable as bird watching. Join us to learn how to identify birds, use binoculars and much more. Everyone receives a Field Guide to Arkansas Birds and an Arkansas bird check list booklet. We have a few binoculars available for use, but bring your own if you have them. Meeting place: Trailhead
Admission: Free
3 p.m. - 3:45 p.m. EAT LIKE A BIRD
What do tongs, tweezers, pliers and a staple remover have in common? Meet a park interpreter to discover the answer. Learn how bird beaks are adapted to different types of food. After the activity, you can become part of the elite “I Ate A Bug Club." Meeting place: Nature Cabin
Admission: Free
6 p.m. - 6:45 p.m. PHANTOMS OF THE FOREST
Are there elk in Arkansas? You bet! Reintroduced to Arkansas in the 1980s, elk now make their home on several sites near the Buffalo River. Learn more about these fascinating creatures during a captivating slide show presentation. Meeting place: Amphitheater
Admission: Free
Monday, March 19
10:30 a.m. - 11:15 a.m. HOUND HIKE
Looking for something fun to do with your dog? Explore Lake Catherine State Park with your canine. You’ll gain exercise for yourself and socialization for your pup. Please bring a leash and a bag for cleaning up after your hound. Meeting place: Trailhead
Admission: Free
1 p.m. - 2 p.m. LAKE TOUR
Sign up in advance for a relaxing cruise on Lake Catherine. Sit back and enjoy the morning breezes as we explore this fascinating area of the Ouachita Mountains. Seating is limited; to register, call (501) 844-4176 or stop by the visitor center. Meeting place: Marina
Admission: Free
3 p.m. - 3:45 p.m. THE INCREDIBLE JOURNEY
Water generates life at Lake Catherine State Park. Pretend to be a water molecule as you move through the water cycle for a fun table game. Join a park interpreter at the nature cabin for this interactive activity. Stick around after the program to make a craft you can take home. Meeting place: Nature Cabin
Admission: Free
6 p.m. - 6:45 p.m. SNAKES OF ARKANSAS
Snakes are among the least understood, yet most intriguing animals in the Arkansas. Meet a park interpreter to discover fascinating facts and learn how to identify the venomous and non-venomous snakes. Meeting place: Amphitheater
Admission: Free
Tuesday, March 20
3 p.m. - 3:45 p.m. OWL'S LAST SUPPER
We’ll search for clues and piece together the bones of an owl’s prey as we dissect owl pellets. Don’t know what an owl pellet is? Meet a park interpreter to begin your investigation of this hands-on, sanitary activity. Meeting place: Nature Cabin
Admission: Free
6 p.m. - 7 p.m. ARKANSAS BLACK BEARS
Did you know that Arkansas used be called the "Bear State?" Join a park interpreter for a fascinating program on the history and present habitat of bears in Arkansas. The informative program is full of interesting pictures and insights into a bear’s life. Meeting place: Amphitheater
Admission: Free
Wednesday, March 21
9 a.m. - 10 a.m. GUIDED WATERFALL HIKE
Join the park interpreter for a 1-mile hike on the Fall Branch Trail. Search for what’s blooming and what’s happening in the forest now that spring is almost here. Bring your water bottle and wear comfortable walking shoes. Meeting place: Trailhead
Admission: Free
1 p.m. - 2 p.m. LAKE TOUR
Sign up in advance for a relaxing cruise on Lake Catherine with a park interpreter as your nature and history guide. Sit back and enjoy the afternoon breezes as we explore this fascinating area of the Ouachita Mountains. To register, call 501-844-4176 or come by the Lake Catherine State Park Visitor Center. Seats are limited! Meeting place: Marina
Admission: Free
3 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. TREE TALK
Have you asked a tree a question? Probably not, but they speak to us loud and clear if we listen closely. Learn a little about the trees of the Ouachita Mountains as they tell us about the history of the area. Meet the park interpreter to go on this incredible journey into the life of our trees. Meeting place: Nature Cabin
Admission: Free
Thursday, March 22
9 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. MAKE YOUR OWN BUG
Hav you seen many insects during your park visit? What colors or shapes do you like? How do their colors and shapes help them survive? Meet the park interpreter and learn how to make your own “cute as a bug” bug to take home with you as a fun reminder of your park visit. Meeting place: Amphitheater
Admission: Free
1 p.m. - 2 p.m. LAKE TOUR
Sign up in advance for a relaxing cruise on Lake Catherine. Sit back and enjoy the morning breezes as we explore this fascinating area of the Ouachita Mountains. Seating is limited; to register, call (501) 844-4176 or stop by the visitor center. Meeting place: Marina
Admission: Free
3 p.m. - 3:45 p.m. FOREST WORLD TOUR
Learn a little about the forests around the world and why they are important to you here in Arkansas. Join the park interpreter for an interactive program to learn how your daily routine is affected by forests! Meeting place: Nature Cabin
Admission: Free
Friday, March 23
1 p.m. - 2 p.m. LAKE TOUR
Sign up in advance for a relaxing cruise on Lake Catherine with a park interpreter as your nature and history guide. Sit back and enjoy the afternoon breezes as we explore this fascinating area of the Ouachita Mountains. To register, call 501-844-4176 or come by the Lake Catherine State Park Visitor Center. Seats are limited! Meeting place: Marina
Admission: Free
3 p.m. - 3:45 p.m. LAKE CATHERINE STATE PARK HISTORY HIKE: HOW DID LAKE CATHERINE GET ITS NAME?
Every stone and log has a story to tell if you listen. Join the park interpreter behind the visitor center to learn more about the Civilian Conservation Corps and how they helped create Lake Catherine State Park. Meeting place: Patio behind Visitor Center
Admission: Free
6 p.m. - 6:45 p.m. MARSHMALLOW ROAST AND CAMPFIRE STORIES
Join the park interpreter to roast marshmallows around the campfire and share your favorite camping memories of Arkansas State Parks. This is always good fellowship. Meeting place: Fire Ring near Tailhead
Admission: Free
Saturday, March 24
10 a.m. - 11 a.m. LAKE TOUR
Sign up in advance for a relaxing cruise on Lake Catherine with a park interpreter as your nature and history guide. Sit back and enjoy the afternoon breezes as we explore this fascinating area of the Ouachita Mountains. To register, call 501-844-4176 or come by the Lake Catherine State Park Visitor Center. Seats are limited! Meeting place: Marina
Admission: Free
2 p.m. - 3 p.m. KAYAK COVE ADVENTURE
Want to see Lake Catherine in a whole new way? Join a park interpreter for a kayaking adventure. Our stable, flat-water kayaks are easy to navigate and incredibly relaxing! No experience is necessary, but you should be comfortable around water. Kayaks, paddles, and life jackets are provided. Spaces are limited. Pre-register and pre-pay at the visitor center. Meeting place: Marina
Admission: $15
3 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. WILDFLOWER BINGO
Lake Catherine State Park is home to many wildflowers. Meet the park interpreter to play this fun game and learn all the beautiful flowers that grow here. Meeting place: Trailhead
Admission: Free
6 p.m. - 6:45 p.m. OWL PROWL/NIGHT HIKE
Join a park interpreter to search for the amazing night time raptor, the owl as we hike approximately ½-mile. If you’ve never been on a night hike, this is a ‘must do’ for you. Join us for a very exciting program. Bring a flashlight and wear comfortable walking shoes. Meeting place: Trailhead
Admission: Free
Sunday, March 25
10 a.m. - 11 a.m. LAKE TOUR
Sign up in advance for a relaxing cruise on Lake Catherine. Sit back and enjoy the morning breezes as we explore this fascinating area of the Ouachita Mountains. Seating is limited; to register, call (501) 844-4176 or stop by the visitor center. Meeting place: Marina
Admission: Free
1 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. BEAR HABITAT
Meet a park interpreter to play a delightful interactive game that gives children and adults an idea of what it’s like to live in a bear’s world. There is some slight running involved. Meeting place: Nature Cabin
Admission: Free
3 p.m. - 3:45 p.m. WILDFLOWER WALK
Join the park interpreter for a hike on the Falls Branch Trail. Search for what’s blooming and what’s happening in the forest now that spring is here. The hike is approximately 1-mile in length. Bring your water bottle and wear comfortable walking shoes. Meeting place: Trailhead
Admission: Free
6 p.m. - 6:45 p.m. GHOSTS OF THE FOREST: DO MOUNTAIN LIONS EXIST IN ARKANSAS
Join a park interpreter to learn about the mysterious mountain lion. Explore whether or not this magnificent animal inhabits the state of Arkansas. Meeting place: Amphitheater
Admission: Free
Monday, March 26
9 a.m. - 10 a.m. CCC HISTORY WALK
The men of the Civilian Conservation Corps helped build the park you enjoy today. Join a park interpreter and learn the fascinating history of Lake Catherine State Park! Meeting place: Nature Cabin
Admission: Free
1 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. ARKANSAS BINGO
Would you like to learn more about the "Natural State?" Join the park interpreter in a round of BINGO that is all about Arkansas! Meeting place: Trailhead
Admission: Free
3:30 p.m. - 4 p.m. TRACKS-N-PRINTS
What animal track is that? Meet the park interpreter to learn what kind of tracks you may see in the park and even have the chance to take a track home with you! Meeting place: Nature Cabin
Admission: Free
Tuesday, March 27
9 a.m. - 10 a.m. HOUND HIKE
Looking for something fun to do with your dog? Join Park Interpreter Megan and explore Lake Catherine State Park with your canine. You’ll gain exercise for yourself and socialization for your pup. Please bring a leash and a bag for cleaning up after your hound. Meeting place: Trailhead
Admission: Free
1 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. FASHION A FISH
Join Park Interpreter Megan to create your own fish. Learn how special adaptations determine where the fish live and what they can eat! Meeting place: Nature Cabin
Admission: Free
3:30 p.m. - 4 p.m. BIRDS AND WORMS
Camouflage is an important survival strategy in the animal kingdom. Blending in with the environment is a great way to avoid being eaten, but it's not an adaptation limited to prey animals. Many predators are also camouflaged to avoid being spotted by a potential meal. In this interactive activity, you have the chance to become a bird in search of colored worms and bugs! Meeting place: Amphitheater
Admission: Free
Wednesday, March 28
9 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. SCAVENGER HUNT
The park interpreter has a list and asks you to find the various “natural and unnatural” items on it. Meet at the nature cabin to get your list. The person with the most items at the end of 15 minutes receives a prize. Meeting place: Nature Cabin
Admission: Free
1 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. INCREDIBLE CASTER
See how an aluminum can or plastic bottle can be recycled into a tool that can catch fish. Bring a used plastic bottle or aluminum can with you for this fun activity. Meeting place: Nature Cabin
Admission: Free
3:30 p.m. - 4 p.m. MEET ELVIS!
Join the park interpreter to and meet our celebrity snake. Learn about king snakes (and others) and how they are beneficial to our ecosystem. Meeting place: Amphitheater
Admission: Free
Thursday, March 29
9 a.m. - 10 a.m. SPRINGTIME BIRD HIKE
Learn how to identify birds, use binoculars, and much more. Everyone receives a "Field Guide to Arkansas Birds." We have a few binoculars available for use, but bring your own if you have them. Meeting place: Trailhead
Admission: Free
1 p.m. - 2 p.m. LAKE TOUR
Sign up in advance for a relaxing cruise on Lake Catherine. Sit back and enjoy the afternoon breezes as we explore this fascinating area of the Ouachita Mountains. Seats are limited! To register, call (501) 844-4176 or stop by the visitor center. Meeting place: Marina
Admission: Free
3:30 p.m. - 4 p.m. PREDATOR VS. PREY
This fun game allows children to explore the wonderful diversity of nature and gain a better understanding of the food chain. Some running is involved. Meeting place: Trailhead
Admission: Free
Friday, March 30
9 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. MEET A TREE
Trees are everywhere! What trees have you seen during your visit to Lake Catherine State Park? How many different items do you think are made from parts of a tree? Discover how we use trees in our everyday lives today with a park interpreter. Meeting place: Nature Cabin
Admission: Free
1 p.m. - 2 p.m. LAKE TOUR
Sign up in advance for a relaxing cruise on Lake Catherine. Sit back and enjoy the morning breezes as we explore this fascinating area of the Ouachita Mountains. Seating is limited. To register, call (501) 844-4176 or stop by the visitor center. Meeting place: Marina
Admission: Free
3:30 p.m. - 4 p.m. ARKANSAS BINGO
Do you want to learn more about the "Natural State?" Join the park interpreter in a round of BINGO that is all about Arkansas! Meeting place: Amphitheater
Admission: Free
Saturday, March 31
10 a.m. - 11 a.m. LAKE TOUR
Sign up in advance for a relaxing cruise on Lake Catherine with a park interpreter as your nature and history guide. Sit back and enjoy the afternoon breezes as we explore this fascinating area of the Ouachita Mountains. To register, call 501-844-4176 or come by the Lake Catherine State Park Visitor Center. Seats are limited! Meeting place: Marina
Admission: Free
3 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. SNAKE SKIN BOOKMARKS
Have you ever wondered what a snake skin feels like? Join Park Interpreter Megan to make a unique bookmark that you can use in your favorite book! Meeting place: Nature Cabin
Admission: Free
6 p.m. - 6:45 p.m. BATS ARE BEAUTIFUL TOO!
This program illustrates the critical environmental roles these gentle creatures play. Learn their worldwide significance, importance in Arkansas, echolocation, hibernation, flight, feeding, myths, and species identification. Meeting place: Amphitheater
Admission: Free
8:30 a.m. - 9:15 a.m. BIRDING BASICS
Arkansas is home to many birds and a corridor for lots of migratory birds. Learn the basics in birding and help us look for some of our feathered friends today. Bring binoculars if you have them; if not we’ll have some for you to use. Meeting place: Trailhead
Admission: Free
10 a.m. - 11 a.m. LAKE TOUR
Sign up in advance for a relaxing cruise on Lake Catherine. Sit back and enjoy the afternoon breezes as we explore this fascinating area of the Ouachita Mountains. Seating is limited; to register, call (501) 844-4176 or come by the visitor center. Meeting place: Marina
Admission: Free
2 p.m. - 3 p.m. WE ALL NEED TREES
Examine various products and determine which ones are made from trees. You may be surprised what part of a tree may be used. Learn ways that trees are used to make products and ways that these products can be conserved. Meeting place: Amphitheater
Admission: Free
6 p.m. - 6:45 p.m. NIGHT SOUNDS
Join a park interpreter for this wonderfully illustrated program about the sounds you hear at night. Is it a frog or a cricket? What are the sounds of spring, are they different from what we hear in the fall? Meeting place: Amphitheater
Admission: Free
Sunday, March 11
10 a.m. - 11 a.m. LAKE TOUR
Sign up in advance for a relaxing cruise on Lake Catherine. Sit back and enjoy the afternoon breezes as we explore this fascinating area of the Ouachita Mountains. Seating is limited; to register, call (501) 844-4176 or come by the visitor center. Meeting place: Marina
Admission: Free
3:30 p.m. - 4 p.m. CATCH THE SUN
Meet a park interpreter to create a lizard sun catcher. This activity provides a fun way for families to create special state park memories. Meeting place: Nature Cabin
Admission: Free
Wednesday, March 14
9 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. MAKE YOUR OWN BUG
Have you seen many bugs during your visit to Lake Catherine State Park? Meet Park Interpreter Megan and learn how to make your own “cute as a bug” bug to take home with you. Meeting place: Trailhead
Admission: Free
3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. LAKE TOUR
Sign up in advance for a relaxing cruise on Lake Catherine. Sit back and enjoy the afternoon breezes as we explore this fascinating area of the Ouachita Mountains. Seating is limited; to register, call (501) 844-4176 or come by the visitor center. Meeting place: Marina
Admission: Free
Thursday, March 15
9 a.m. - 10 a.m. LITTER WE KNOW
Litter can be very harmful to wildlife that encounters it. Discarded fishing line can wrap the legs, wings, or beaks of waterfowl such as geese and herons. When the fishing line wraps around its beak, a bird cannot feed itself. Recycling can help solve this problem. Join a park interpreter today and use recycled items to create an artful masterpiece! Meeting place: Trailhead
Admission: Free
3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. LAKE TOUR
Sign up in advance for a relaxing cruise on Lake Catherine. Sit back and enjoy the afternoon breezes as we explore this fascinating area of the Ouachita Mountains. Seating is limited; to register, call (501) 844-4176 or come by the visitor center. Meeting place: Marina
Admission: Free
Friday, March 16
2 p.m. - 3 p.m. SKINS-N-SKULLS
What mammals would you expect to inhabit Lake Catherine State Park? Join a park interpreter today to discover their fascinating adaptations. Children and adults alike are invited to explore the world of mammals through hands-on exploration. Meeting place: Amphitheater
Admission: Free
6 p.m. - 6:45 p.m. SPIDERS OF ARKANSAS
Join the park interpreter for this beautifully illustrated program about spiders. Discover answers to questions such as do all spiders have venom, why do they weave a web and how do they do that? Is a spider’s blood really blue? See beautiful pictures of spiders and hear their stories. Meeting place: Amphitheater
Admission: Free
Saturday, March 17
10 a.m. - 11 a.m. LAKE TOUR
Sign up in advance for a relaxing cruise on Lake Catherine. Sit back and enjoy the morning breezes as we explore this fascinating area of the Ouachita Mountains. Seating is limited; to register, call (501) 844-4176 or stop by the visitor center. Meeting place: Marina
Admission: Free
11 a.m. - 2 p.m. DUTCH OVEN OUTDOOR COOKING WORKSHOP: THE BASICS
Food always tastes better cooked outside, and cooking over coals in cast-iron Dutch ovens is a longstanding State Park tradition. Join us for this hands-on Dutch oven demonstration. You will receive a fully cooked meal, a recipe and cooking manual, and a Dutch oven for you to take home. Contact the park to register. Space is limited. Meeting place: Fire Ring Near Trailhead
Admission: $30
4 p.m. - 4:45 p.m. ARKANSAS FURBEARERS
You are invited to explore the world of mammals through hands-on exploration. Meet a park interpreter to get your chance to feel the soft fur of several of Arkansas’s furbearers. Meeting place: Ampitheater
Admission: Free
6 p.m. - 6:45 p.m. OWLS OF LAKE CATHERINE
Join the park interpreter to learn a little about these wise old birds! We'll show you which owl is big and brave enough to eat a skunk and how they glide through the air silently to capture prey. Meeting place: Amphitheater
Admission: Free
Sunday, March 18
10 a.m. - 11 a.m. LAKE TOUR
Sign up in advance for a relaxing cruise on Lake Catherine. Sit back and enjoy the morning breezes as we explore this fascinating area of the Ouachita Mountains. Seating is limited; to register, call (501) 844-4176 or stop by the visitor center. Meeting place: Marina
Admission: Free
1 p.m. - 2 p.m. BEGINNING BIRD WATCHING HIKE
Few past times are as enjoyable as bird watching. Join us to learn how to identify birds, use binoculars and much more. Everyone receives a Field Guide to Arkansas Birds and an Arkansas bird check list booklet. We have a few binoculars available for use, but bring your own if you have them. Meeting place: Trailhead
Admission: Free
3 p.m. - 3:45 p.m. EAT LIKE A BIRD
What do tongs, tweezers, pliers and a staple remover have in common? Meet a park interpreter to discover the answer. Learn how bird beaks are adapted to different types of food. After the activity, you can become part of the elite “I Ate A Bug Club." Meeting place: Nature Cabin
Admission: Free
6 p.m. - 6:45 p.m. PHANTOMS OF THE FOREST
Are there elk in Arkansas? You bet! Reintroduced to Arkansas in the 1980s, elk now make their home on several sites near the Buffalo River. Learn more about these fascinating creatures during a captivating slide show presentation. Meeting place: Amphitheater
Admission: Free
Monday, March 19
10:30 a.m. - 11:15 a.m. HOUND HIKE
Looking for something fun to do with your dog? Explore Lake Catherine State Park with your canine. You’ll gain exercise for yourself and socialization for your pup. Please bring a leash and a bag for cleaning up after your hound. Meeting place: Trailhead
Admission: Free
1 p.m. - 2 p.m. LAKE TOUR
Sign up in advance for a relaxing cruise on Lake Catherine. Sit back and enjoy the morning breezes as we explore this fascinating area of the Ouachita Mountains. Seating is limited; to register, call (501) 844-4176 or stop by the visitor center. Meeting place: Marina
Admission: Free
3 p.m. - 3:45 p.m. THE INCREDIBLE JOURNEY
Water generates life at Lake Catherine State Park. Pretend to be a water molecule as you move through the water cycle for a fun table game. Join a park interpreter at the nature cabin for this interactive activity. Stick around after the program to make a craft you can take home. Meeting place: Nature Cabin
Admission: Free
6 p.m. - 6:45 p.m. SNAKES OF ARKANSAS
Snakes are among the least understood, yet most intriguing animals in the Arkansas. Meet a park interpreter to discover fascinating facts and learn how to identify the venomous and non-venomous snakes. Meeting place: Amphitheater
Admission: Free
Tuesday, March 20
3 p.m. - 3:45 p.m. OWL'S LAST SUPPER
We’ll search for clues and piece together the bones of an owl’s prey as we dissect owl pellets. Don’t know what an owl pellet is? Meet a park interpreter to begin your investigation of this hands-on, sanitary activity. Meeting place: Nature Cabin
Admission: Free
6 p.m. - 7 p.m. ARKANSAS BLACK BEARS
Did you know that Arkansas used be called the "Bear State?" Join a park interpreter for a fascinating program on the history and present habitat of bears in Arkansas. The informative program is full of interesting pictures and insights into a bear’s life. Meeting place: Amphitheater
Admission: Free
Wednesday, March 21
9 a.m. - 10 a.m. GUIDED WATERFALL HIKE
Join the park interpreter for a 1-mile hike on the Fall Branch Trail. Search for what’s blooming and what’s happening in the forest now that spring is almost here. Bring your water bottle and wear comfortable walking shoes. Meeting place: Trailhead
Admission: Free
1 p.m. - 2 p.m. LAKE TOUR
Sign up in advance for a relaxing cruise on Lake Catherine with a park interpreter as your nature and history guide. Sit back and enjoy the afternoon breezes as we explore this fascinating area of the Ouachita Mountains. To register, call 501-844-4176 or come by the Lake Catherine State Park Visitor Center. Seats are limited! Meeting place: Marina
Admission: Free
3 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. TREE TALK
Have you asked a tree a question? Probably not, but they speak to us loud and clear if we listen closely. Learn a little about the trees of the Ouachita Mountains as they tell us about the history of the area. Meet the park interpreter to go on this incredible journey into the life of our trees. Meeting place: Nature Cabin
Admission: Free
Thursday, March 22
9 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. MAKE YOUR OWN BUG
Hav you seen many insects during your park visit? What colors or shapes do you like? How do their colors and shapes help them survive? Meet the park interpreter and learn how to make your own “cute as a bug” bug to take home with you as a fun reminder of your park visit. Meeting place: Amphitheater
Admission: Free
1 p.m. - 2 p.m. LAKE TOUR
Sign up in advance for a relaxing cruise on Lake Catherine. Sit back and enjoy the morning breezes as we explore this fascinating area of the Ouachita Mountains. Seating is limited; to register, call (501) 844-4176 or stop by the visitor center. Meeting place: Marina
Admission: Free
3 p.m. - 3:45 p.m. FOREST WORLD TOUR
Learn a little about the forests around the world and why they are important to you here in Arkansas. Join the park interpreter for an interactive program to learn how your daily routine is affected by forests! Meeting place: Nature Cabin
Admission: Free
Friday, March 23
1 p.m. - 2 p.m. LAKE TOUR
Sign up in advance for a relaxing cruise on Lake Catherine with a park interpreter as your nature and history guide. Sit back and enjoy the afternoon breezes as we explore this fascinating area of the Ouachita Mountains. To register, call 501-844-4176 or come by the Lake Catherine State Park Visitor Center. Seats are limited! Meeting place: Marina
Admission: Free
3 p.m. - 3:45 p.m. LAKE CATHERINE STATE PARK HISTORY HIKE: HOW DID LAKE CATHERINE GET ITS NAME?
Every stone and log has a story to tell if you listen. Join the park interpreter behind the visitor center to learn more about the Civilian Conservation Corps and how they helped create Lake Catherine State Park. Meeting place: Patio behind Visitor Center
Admission: Free
6 p.m. - 6:45 p.m. MARSHMALLOW ROAST AND CAMPFIRE STORIES
Join the park interpreter to roast marshmallows around the campfire and share your favorite camping memories of Arkansas State Parks. This is always good fellowship. Meeting place: Fire Ring near Tailhead
Admission: Free
Saturday, March 24
10 a.m. - 11 a.m. LAKE TOUR
Sign up in advance for a relaxing cruise on Lake Catherine with a park interpreter as your nature and history guide. Sit back and enjoy the afternoon breezes as we explore this fascinating area of the Ouachita Mountains. To register, call 501-844-4176 or come by the Lake Catherine State Park Visitor Center. Seats are limited! Meeting place: Marina
Admission: Free
2 p.m. - 3 p.m. KAYAK COVE ADVENTURE
Want to see Lake Catherine in a whole new way? Join a park interpreter for a kayaking adventure. Our stable, flat-water kayaks are easy to navigate and incredibly relaxing! No experience is necessary, but you should be comfortable around water. Kayaks, paddles, and life jackets are provided. Spaces are limited. Pre-register and pre-pay at the visitor center. Meeting place: Marina
Admission: $15
3 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. WILDFLOWER BINGO
Lake Catherine State Park is home to many wildflowers. Meet the park interpreter to play this fun game and learn all the beautiful flowers that grow here. Meeting place: Trailhead
Admission: Free
6 p.m. - 6:45 p.m. OWL PROWL/NIGHT HIKE
Join a park interpreter to search for the amazing night time raptor, the owl as we hike approximately ½-mile. If you’ve never been on a night hike, this is a ‘must do’ for you. Join us for a very exciting program. Bring a flashlight and wear comfortable walking shoes. Meeting place: Trailhead
Admission: Free
Sunday, March 25
10 a.m. - 11 a.m. LAKE TOUR
Sign up in advance for a relaxing cruise on Lake Catherine. Sit back and enjoy the morning breezes as we explore this fascinating area of the Ouachita Mountains. Seating is limited; to register, call (501) 844-4176 or stop by the visitor center. Meeting place: Marina
Admission: Free
1 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. BEAR HABITAT
Meet a park interpreter to play a delightful interactive game that gives children and adults an idea of what it’s like to live in a bear’s world. There is some slight running involved. Meeting place: Nature Cabin
Admission: Free
3 p.m. - 3:45 p.m. WILDFLOWER WALK
Join the park interpreter for a hike on the Falls Branch Trail. Search for what’s blooming and what’s happening in the forest now that spring is here. The hike is approximately 1-mile in length. Bring your water bottle and wear comfortable walking shoes. Meeting place: Trailhead
Admission: Free
6 p.m. - 6:45 p.m. GHOSTS OF THE FOREST: DO MOUNTAIN LIONS EXIST IN ARKANSAS
Join a park interpreter to learn about the mysterious mountain lion. Explore whether or not this magnificent animal inhabits the state of Arkansas. Meeting place: Amphitheater
Admission: Free
Monday, March 26
9 a.m. - 10 a.m. CCC HISTORY WALK
The men of the Civilian Conservation Corps helped build the park you enjoy today. Join a park interpreter and learn the fascinating history of Lake Catherine State Park! Meeting place: Nature Cabin
Admission: Free
1 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. ARKANSAS BINGO
Would you like to learn more about the "Natural State?" Join the park interpreter in a round of BINGO that is all about Arkansas! Meeting place: Trailhead
Admission: Free
3:30 p.m. - 4 p.m. TRACKS-N-PRINTS
What animal track is that? Meet the park interpreter to learn what kind of tracks you may see in the park and even have the chance to take a track home with you! Meeting place: Nature Cabin
Admission: Free
Tuesday, March 27
9 a.m. - 10 a.m. HOUND HIKE
Looking for something fun to do with your dog? Join Park Interpreter Megan and explore Lake Catherine State Park with your canine. You’ll gain exercise for yourself and socialization for your pup. Please bring a leash and a bag for cleaning up after your hound. Meeting place: Trailhead
Admission: Free
1 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. FASHION A FISH
Join Park Interpreter Megan to create your own fish. Learn how special adaptations determine where the fish live and what they can eat! Meeting place: Nature Cabin
Admission: Free
3:30 p.m. - 4 p.m. BIRDS AND WORMS
Camouflage is an important survival strategy in the animal kingdom. Blending in with the environment is a great way to avoid being eaten, but it's not an adaptation limited to prey animals. Many predators are also camouflaged to avoid being spotted by a potential meal. In this interactive activity, you have the chance to become a bird in search of colored worms and bugs! Meeting place: Amphitheater
Admission: Free
Wednesday, March 28
9 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. SCAVENGER HUNT
The park interpreter has a list and asks you to find the various “natural and unnatural” items on it. Meet at the nature cabin to get your list. The person with the most items at the end of 15 minutes receives a prize. Meeting place: Nature Cabin
Admission: Free
1 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. INCREDIBLE CASTER
See how an aluminum can or plastic bottle can be recycled into a tool that can catch fish. Bring a used plastic bottle or aluminum can with you for this fun activity. Meeting place: Nature Cabin
Admission: Free
3:30 p.m. - 4 p.m. MEET ELVIS!
Join the park interpreter to and meet our celebrity snake. Learn about king snakes (and others) and how they are beneficial to our ecosystem. Meeting place: Amphitheater
Admission: Free
Thursday, March 29
9 a.m. - 10 a.m. SPRINGTIME BIRD HIKE
Learn how to identify birds, use binoculars, and much more. Everyone receives a "Field Guide to Arkansas Birds." We have a few binoculars available for use, but bring your own if you have them. Meeting place: Trailhead
Admission: Free
1 p.m. - 2 p.m. LAKE TOUR
Sign up in advance for a relaxing cruise on Lake Catherine. Sit back and enjoy the afternoon breezes as we explore this fascinating area of the Ouachita Mountains. Seats are limited! To register, call (501) 844-4176 or stop by the visitor center. Meeting place: Marina
Admission: Free
3:30 p.m. - 4 p.m. PREDATOR VS. PREY
This fun game allows children to explore the wonderful diversity of nature and gain a better understanding of the food chain. Some running is involved. Meeting place: Trailhead
Admission: Free
Friday, March 30
9 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. MEET A TREE
Trees are everywhere! What trees have you seen during your visit to Lake Catherine State Park? How many different items do you think are made from parts of a tree? Discover how we use trees in our everyday lives today with a park interpreter. Meeting place: Nature Cabin
Admission: Free
1 p.m. - 2 p.m. LAKE TOUR
Sign up in advance for a relaxing cruise on Lake Catherine. Sit back and enjoy the morning breezes as we explore this fascinating area of the Ouachita Mountains. Seating is limited. To register, call (501) 844-4176 or stop by the visitor center. Meeting place: Marina
Admission: Free
3:30 p.m. - 4 p.m. ARKANSAS BINGO
Do you want to learn more about the "Natural State?" Join the park interpreter in a round of BINGO that is all about Arkansas! Meeting place: Amphitheater
Admission: Free
Saturday, March 31
10 a.m. - 11 a.m. LAKE TOUR
Sign up in advance for a relaxing cruise on Lake Catherine with a park interpreter as your nature and history guide. Sit back and enjoy the afternoon breezes as we explore this fascinating area of the Ouachita Mountains. To register, call 501-844-4176 or come by the Lake Catherine State Park Visitor Center. Seats are limited! Meeting place: Marina
Admission: Free
3 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. SNAKE SKIN BOOKMARKS
Have you ever wondered what a snake skin feels like? Join Park Interpreter Megan to make a unique bookmark that you can use in your favorite book! Meeting place: Nature Cabin
Admission: Free
6 p.m. - 6:45 p.m. BATS ARE BEAUTIFUL TOO!
This program illustrates the critical environmental roles these gentle creatures play. Learn their worldwide significance, importance in Arkansas, echolocation, hibernation, flight, feeding, myths, and species identification. Meeting place: Amphitheater
Admission: Free
Visit Lake Catherine this spring
Lake Catherine State Park is coming to life with the arrival of the warm weather and blooming flowers. The hiking trails are bustling and the campsites are filling up. Located only 25 minutes from downtown Hot Springs, the state park has many events coming up in the month of March that are great for all ages. These events include spring break activities, lake tours, night programs, Dutch oven workshops and kayak adventures. Daily programs will begin on March 10th and continue through March 31st. Dutch oven workshops and kayak tours require you to sign up in advance, so don’t miss your chance at this awesome experience! We encourage families to visit the state park website for details of programs and activities in the park.
For details please visit www.arkansasstateparks.com or call the park at 501-844-4176.
For details please visit www.arkansasstateparks.com or call the park at 501-844-4176.
Winthrop Rockefeller Institute to host first film forum
Noted Hollywood Insiders to Teach on Petit Jean Mountain
The Winthrop Rockefeller Institute will host its first Film Forum entitled, “Adventures in the Art of Filmmaking,” on March 8-11, 2012 at the Winthrop Rockefeller Institute atop Petit Jean Mountain in Arkansas.
The Film Forum is open to everyone, from film professionals, professors and students to enthusiasts seeking a better understanding of the art, craft, and business of film. This Film Forum will bring together an outstanding assembly of well-known actors, directors, producers, screenwriters, and acting coaches to explore the many facets of American filmmaking spanning 40 years. The faculty members include Robert Walden (Happily Divorced, Lou Grant), Lea Thompson (Back to the Future, Caroline in the City, Edgar), director Howard Deutch (Pretty in Pink, Some Kind of Wonderful), director and teacher, Joan Darling (Mary Hartman, M*A*S*H, Mary Tyler Moore Show); foremost acting coach and teacher, Sandra Seacat; screenwriter Bill Svanoe (Six Million Dollar Man); OSCAR-winning producer, Fred Roos (Godfather Part II, Apocalypse Now), and documentarian, Craig Renaud (On the Front Lines of Film Journalism), who founded The Little Rock Film Festival. Plus -- some surprise guests.
The Film Forum is a not-to-be missed event for Arkansas’s burgeoning film community as well as film lovers from around the region.” said Robert Walden. This Forum offers a unique chance for aspiring filmmakers and enthusiasts to gain insights and sharpen their skills for three days with an array of remarkable talents in a magical setting.”
Participants can observe and engage in hands-on workshops with the faculty focused on screenwriting, directing the actor, and enhancing the actor’s performance. Show Barn Panel Discussions – open to the general public – will feature: Women in Film, On the Front Lines of Film Journalism, How to Do Shakespeare, A Producer’s Perspective on Forty Years of Filmmaking, and much more. Aspiring actors will also have the chance to audition for the faculty before a public audience.
Walden says, "Ultimately film shapes, reflects, and changes our culture. It is as powerful and inspiring as any art form can be. Here is the rare chance to actually meet and interact with some of the people who have affected us all. I urge you to find a way to get here."
Christy Carpenter, WRI's chief executive officer says, “With this Film Forum, the Winthrop Rockefeller Institute is launching a new series of weekend experiences designed for people keen to delve more deeply into artistic, cultural, and intellectual interest.” Carpenter continued, "Governor Rockefeller believed strongly in the power of the arts to lift the human spirit, and we're thrilled to kick-off the first of these weekend programs with a rich and imaginative program focused on film. We anticipate an extraordinary experience for all who come."
NOTE: Those interested in participating in the Film Forum have four different pricing options: a full package with lodging for $750 (single occupancy) or $650 (double occupancy); full package without lodging for $450; a university student package (a current student identification is required) with lodging for $500 or without lodging for $250; and, a la carte tickets for each Show Barn Panel Discussions for $35. Space is limited so advance online registration is required at www.livethelegacy.org. For more information, visit the website or contact Angie York at 501-727-6257.
Arkansas' bear harvest continues to be strong
Arkansas’s bear harvest continues to be strong. Hunters harvested more than 400 bears during the 2011-12. Last year, hunters harvested more 450 bears. During the 2009-10 season, hunters harvested a record 530 bears.
The harvest totals were presented to commissioners of the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission during its monthly meeting today.
Bear Program Coordinator Myron Means said the harvest numbers could be attributed to private land hunters using bait. “Mast failure caused bears to seek baits more than in the past,” Means said. Means added that the sex ratio was good and the statewide harvest goal is between 350 and 400 bears each year.
Polk and Scott counties were again the two top counties for bear hunters. In Polk County, 51 bears were harvested, followed by 45 bears in Scott County.
Means said that future considerations for bear season may include removing the two-day early modern gun hunt in Bear Zone 2. “The two-day gun season has been successful in increasing bear harvest for Bear Zone 2. However, it also has increased the female harvest ratio from roughly 35 percent to 50 percent,” Means said. “A 50 percent harvest rate of adult females is not sustainable over the long term,” he warned.
In other business, the Commission:
*Announced that Jeff Crow has been named the new Chief of Enforcement for the AGFC. Most recently Crow served as the Law Enforcement Management Specialist for the University of Arkansas’s Criminal Justice Institute. Crow replaces Mike Knoedl who was promoted to deputy director.
*Approved up to $500,000 to fund eight Wildlife Recreation Facilities Pilot Program projects around Arkansas. The money for the projects comes from natural gas lease revenues the AGFC has received.
*Approved up to $1 million to fund 13 grants through the Wildlife Observation Trails Pilot program. Money for the program also comes from natural gas lease revenues.
*Heard a proposal for a new code concerning non-liability for wildlife damages.
*Approved a budget increase of $121,621 to repair the Gurdon Lake Dam spillway. The dam was damaged during flooding in 2010. The Federal Emergency Management Agency will reimburse the AGFC $118,121 of the total cost.
*Approved the renaming of an access on Dry Run Creek in Baxter County. The access will be renamed Larry Rider Dry Run Creek Access after the former fisheries employee. Rider was instrumental in establishing Dry Run Creek as a catch-and-release are for youths and mobility-impaired anglers.
*Approved a budget increase of $115,800 for habitat restoration and stream bank stabilization in the White River basin. The money will come from the Environmental Protection Agency through the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission.
*Approved the purchase of 41 vehicles at a cost of $977,234. The vehicles will replace 41 vehicles that have are nearing or exceeded 150,000 miles. Each of the replaced vehicles will be sold and removed from inventory as soon as equipment is transferred to the new vehicles.
*Approved a budget transfer of $62,800 for improvements at Henry Gray Hurricane Lake and Steve N. Wilson Raft Creek WMAs.
*Approved a budget increase of $90,000 from an EPA grant to study the Arkansas West Gulf Coastal Plain wetland terraces.
* Honored Sgt. Floyd Harper with the Shikar-Safari Wildlife Officer of the Year award. Harper is based in Monticello and patrols southeast Arkansas. Award winners are selected on the basis of their professional relationships with hunters, anglers and landowners in their districts, their job performance and dedication to the wildlife law enforcement profession and participation in activities outside of daily enforcement work.
*Read a proclamation from Gov. Mike Beebe honoring the 75th anniversary of the Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration program.The WSFR program is the revenue foundation for most fish and wildlife conservation programs. First created on Sept. 2, 1937 when President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act, the program raises funds through a dedicated excise tax on sporting guns and ammunition. In 1950, the Federal Aid in Sport Fish Restoration Act was enacted and added to the WSFR program. Through this law, funds are provided for fish conservation and boating and fishing recreational programs in each state through an excise tax placed on certain fishing and boating equipment and fuels.
The harvest totals were presented to commissioners of the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission during its monthly meeting today.
Bear Program Coordinator Myron Means said the harvest numbers could be attributed to private land hunters using bait. “Mast failure caused bears to seek baits more than in the past,” Means said. Means added that the sex ratio was good and the statewide harvest goal is between 350 and 400 bears each year.
Polk and Scott counties were again the two top counties for bear hunters. In Polk County, 51 bears were harvested, followed by 45 bears in Scott County.
Means said that future considerations for bear season may include removing the two-day early modern gun hunt in Bear Zone 2. “The two-day gun season has been successful in increasing bear harvest for Bear Zone 2. However, it also has increased the female harvest ratio from roughly 35 percent to 50 percent,” Means said. “A 50 percent harvest rate of adult females is not sustainable over the long term,” he warned.
In other business, the Commission:
*Announced that Jeff Crow has been named the new Chief of Enforcement for the AGFC. Most recently Crow served as the Law Enforcement Management Specialist for the University of Arkansas’s Criminal Justice Institute. Crow replaces Mike Knoedl who was promoted to deputy director.
*Approved up to $500,000 to fund eight Wildlife Recreation Facilities Pilot Program projects around Arkansas. The money for the projects comes from natural gas lease revenues the AGFC has received.
*Approved up to $1 million to fund 13 grants through the Wildlife Observation Trails Pilot program. Money for the program also comes from natural gas lease revenues.
*Heard a proposal for a new code concerning non-liability for wildlife damages.
*Approved a budget increase of $121,621 to repair the Gurdon Lake Dam spillway. The dam was damaged during flooding in 2010. The Federal Emergency Management Agency will reimburse the AGFC $118,121 of the total cost.
*Approved the renaming of an access on Dry Run Creek in Baxter County. The access will be renamed Larry Rider Dry Run Creek Access after the former fisheries employee. Rider was instrumental in establishing Dry Run Creek as a catch-and-release are for youths and mobility-impaired anglers.
*Approved a budget increase of $115,800 for habitat restoration and stream bank stabilization in the White River basin. The money will come from the Environmental Protection Agency through the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission.
*Approved the purchase of 41 vehicles at a cost of $977,234. The vehicles will replace 41 vehicles that have are nearing or exceeded 150,000 miles. Each of the replaced vehicles will be sold and removed from inventory as soon as equipment is transferred to the new vehicles.
*Approved a budget transfer of $62,800 for improvements at Henry Gray Hurricane Lake and Steve N. Wilson Raft Creek WMAs.
*Approved a budget increase of $90,000 from an EPA grant to study the Arkansas West Gulf Coastal Plain wetland terraces.
* Honored Sgt. Floyd Harper with the Shikar-Safari Wildlife Officer of the Year award. Harper is based in Monticello and patrols southeast Arkansas. Award winners are selected on the basis of their professional relationships with hunters, anglers and landowners in their districts, their job performance and dedication to the wildlife law enforcement profession and participation in activities outside of daily enforcement work.
*Read a proclamation from Gov. Mike Beebe honoring the 75th anniversary of the Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration program.The WSFR program is the revenue foundation for most fish and wildlife conservation programs. First created on Sept. 2, 1937 when President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act, the program raises funds through a dedicated excise tax on sporting guns and ammunition. In 1950, the Federal Aid in Sport Fish Restoration Act was enacted and added to the WSFR program. Through this law, funds are provided for fish conservation and boating and fishing recreational programs in each state through an excise tax placed on certain fishing and boating equipment and fuels.
Judge Raymond Abramson files for election to the Arkansas Supreme Court
After visiting all 75 Arkansas counties during the past year, Judge Raymond Abramson promised to bring experience and small town values to the Arkansas Supreme Court as he filed for election to the state’s highest court today.
“I know the court system, I know the law and I know Arkansas,” Abramson said. “I’ve always believed that small town values like honesty, fairness and common sense are also the guiding principles for the application of law.”
Judge Abramson, a fourth generation Arkansan whose family settled in Holly Grove, AR more than 150 years ago, is seeking the position currently held by retiring Justice Jim Gunter.
Judge Abramson currently serves on the Arkansas Circuit Court of Appeals after he was appointed by Governor Mike Beebe in 2010. He practiced law for 34 years in Monroe County and served as a public defender, city attorney, and municipal judge.
“Practicing law in a small town is like being the only doctor in town,” Judge Abramson said. “Whatever comes in the door, you treat it. Over these last three decades, I worked hard to help my clients no matter what kind of legal problem they had.”
After obtaining his law degree from the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, Abramson returned to Holly Grove where his great grandfather first established roots in the 1860s. Judge Abramson still resides in Holly Grove with his wife of 35 years, Mockie. They have two daughters, Emily and Anne.
Judge Abramson’s late father, Ralph, was also a highly respected attorney and small businessman who engaged in many civic and charitable activities in Monroe County and Eastern Arkansas throughout his life. “His example inspired my life,” Judge Abramson said today.
Prior to his appointment to the Court of Appeals, Judge Abramson accumulated a long list of accomplishments and positions of service to his community, including: Monroe county Public Defender, Clarendon Municipal Judge, Holly Grove City Attorney, President of the Monroe County Bar Association, President of the Arkansas Public Defenders Association and member of the Arkansas Supreme Court’s Committees on Criminal Practice, Criminal Jury Instructions, Opportunities for Women and Minorities and the Judicial Article Task Force.
Arkansas’s Non-Partisan Judicial General Election is scheduled Tuesday, May 22, 2012.
“I know the court system, I know the law and I know Arkansas,” Abramson said. “I’ve always believed that small town values like honesty, fairness and common sense are also the guiding principles for the application of law.”
Judge Abramson, a fourth generation Arkansan whose family settled in Holly Grove, AR more than 150 years ago, is seeking the position currently held by retiring Justice Jim Gunter.
Judge Abramson currently serves on the Arkansas Circuit Court of Appeals after he was appointed by Governor Mike Beebe in 2010. He practiced law for 34 years in Monroe County and served as a public defender, city attorney, and municipal judge.
“Practicing law in a small town is like being the only doctor in town,” Judge Abramson said. “Whatever comes in the door, you treat it. Over these last three decades, I worked hard to help my clients no matter what kind of legal problem they had.”
After obtaining his law degree from the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, Abramson returned to Holly Grove where his great grandfather first established roots in the 1860s. Judge Abramson still resides in Holly Grove with his wife of 35 years, Mockie. They have two daughters, Emily and Anne.
Judge Abramson’s late father, Ralph, was also a highly respected attorney and small businessman who engaged in many civic and charitable activities in Monroe County and Eastern Arkansas throughout his life. “His example inspired my life,” Judge Abramson said today.
Prior to his appointment to the Court of Appeals, Judge Abramson accumulated a long list of accomplishments and positions of service to his community, including: Monroe county Public Defender, Clarendon Municipal Judge, Holly Grove City Attorney, President of the Monroe County Bar Association, President of the Arkansas Public Defenders Association and member of the Arkansas Supreme Court’s Committees on Criminal Practice, Criminal Jury Instructions, Opportunities for Women and Minorities and the Judicial Article Task Force.
Arkansas’s Non-Partisan Judicial General Election is scheduled Tuesday, May 22, 2012.
Update of ticket locations for Puttin' on the Dog and Cat
Tickets are on sale now for "PUTTIN' ON THE DOG...AND CAT" 2012, the HSV Animal Welfare's Annual Gala Benefit for the Animals.
Tickets can be purchased at these special business friends of AWL including the following:
Company's Comin' - west gate shopping area
BarKansas Pet Supply - Hwy. 7
Village Pet Services - Hwy. 7
LBG Enterprises - Calella Rd. inside the Village
The Dogwood Tree Hallmark - east gate shops
A to Zebra Veterinary Clinic - east gate shops
or......call Ticket Chairperson, Julie Keck .....915-9986
$20.00 per ticket
Available in Limited Supply. They sell out quickly!
All proceeds to HSV shelter pets and AWL's services to pets in need.
Everyone is invited to join the League for "the cause for the paws". Enjoy music, samples from area restaurants, take home beautiful treasures from the silent & live auctions, win a door prize, be the one lucky winner of the cash on the money tree.
All the food and fun begins at 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 10 at the Coronado Center.
Tickets can be purchased at these special business friends of AWL including the following:
Company's Comin' - west gate shopping area
BarKansas Pet Supply - Hwy. 7
Village Pet Services - Hwy. 7
LBG Enterprises - Calella Rd. inside the Village
The Dogwood Tree Hallmark - east gate shops
A to Zebra Veterinary Clinic - east gate shops
or......call Ticket Chairperson, Julie Keck .....915-9986
$20.00 per ticket
Available in Limited Supply. They sell out quickly!
All proceeds to HSV shelter pets and AWL's services to pets in need.
Everyone is invited to join the League for "the cause for the paws". Enjoy music, samples from area restaurants, take home beautiful treasures from the silent & live auctions, win a door prize, be the one lucky winner of the cash on the money tree.
All the food and fun begins at 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 10 at the Coronado Center.
Pryor phone in town hall meeding
U.S. Senator Mark Pryor announced that he will hold Town Hall meetings over the phone on Wednesday, February 29 to discuss job creation, the economy and other issues affecting Arkansans. To expand his accessibility, Pryor will also take questions via Twitter, and stream a live video of the Tele-Town Halls on his website.
“Arkansans have a lot to say about what’s going in Washington, D.C. and I want to offer as many opportunities as possible for them to share their suggestions and concerns,” Pryor said. “This new format will allow Arkansans to speak with me face-to-face from the comfort of their own home,” Pryor said.
Arkansans are invited to follow Pryor on Twitter @senmarkpryor and ask questions using the hash tag #AskPryor. Pryor will answer callers’ questions, as well as Twitter followers’ questions throughout the call.
WHAT: Virtual Tele-Town Halls with Senator Mark Pryor
WHEN: Wednesday, February 29 at 6 p.m. and 7 p.m.
DIAL IN: 6:00 p.m.: 888-886-6603 Ext. 18258
7:00 p.m.: 888-886-6603 Ext. 18259
“Arkansans have a lot to say about what’s going in Washington, D.C. and I want to offer as many opportunities as possible for them to share their suggestions and concerns,” Pryor said. “This new format will allow Arkansans to speak with me face-to-face from the comfort of their own home,” Pryor said.
Arkansans are invited to follow Pryor on Twitter @senmarkpryor and ask questions using the hash tag #AskPryor. Pryor will answer callers’ questions, as well as Twitter followers’ questions throughout the call.
WHAT: Virtual Tele-Town Halls with Senator Mark Pryor
WHEN: Wednesday, February 29 at 6 p.m. and 7 p.m.
DIAL IN: 6:00 p.m.: 888-886-6603 Ext. 18258
7:00 p.m.: 888-886-6603 Ext. 18259
Clark Hall files for Congressional seat
Clark Hall released the following statement upon filing as an official candidate for Congress in Arkansas’s First District. Hall will host an online town hall with First District voters afterward at www.ustream.tv/channel/clark-hall-for-arkansas at 5:30 p.m. He will answer questions submitted by voters during and leading up to the town hall at news@clarkhallforarkansas.com.
Statement By Hall:
“Our Congress is broken and not willing to make tough choices to move our country forward. We all understand in Arkansas, in tough times, you need tough leaders to make tough choices. I’m tired of the nonsense going on in Washington. It’s time we rolled up our sleeves and fixed the problem.
“I filed to run for Congress because we need a little more Arkansas leadership and problem solving and a lot less Washington politics. I have no illusions about the problems we face. They are enormous. We are making our way through the worst national economy since the Great Depression, but I can promise you that political games and partisan fighting are not the answers to the problems we face. It’s time we get serious about the federal budget deficit in Washington. We ought to treat it the same way we treat our budget here in Arkansas or our family budget at the kitchen table. We must pay our bills. We must get spending under control. We must make things run more efficiently.
“Fighting for job opportunities and economic development and getting our federal budget in order will be my first and utmost priorities.
“Finding common sense solutions, building coalitions to solve our problems and always putting the people of Arkansas before politics will guide my every step as your next Congressman.”
Statement By Hall:
“Our Congress is broken and not willing to make tough choices to move our country forward. We all understand in Arkansas, in tough times, you need tough leaders to make tough choices. I’m tired of the nonsense going on in Washington. It’s time we rolled up our sleeves and fixed the problem.
“I filed to run for Congress because we need a little more Arkansas leadership and problem solving and a lot less Washington politics. I have no illusions about the problems we face. They are enormous. We are making our way through the worst national economy since the Great Depression, but I can promise you that political games and partisan fighting are not the answers to the problems we face. It’s time we get serious about the federal budget deficit in Washington. We ought to treat it the same way we treat our budget here in Arkansas or our family budget at the kitchen table. We must pay our bills. We must get spending under control. We must make things run more efficiently.
“Fighting for job opportunities and economic development and getting our federal budget in order will be my first and utmost priorities.
“Finding common sense solutions, building coalitions to solve our problems and always putting the people of Arkansas before politics will guide my every step as your next Congressman.”
Fun, food and flowers on the agenda for the Governor's Conference
There are so many reasons to attend to the 38th Annual Arkansas Governor’s Conference on Tourism. Here are a few more reasons to come out to Southland Park Gaming & Racing in West Memphis March 4 through 6.
The fun begins Sunday night with an Early Bird Reception hosted by Southland’s own “Guy Fieri,” who will share an evening of games, foods from famed West Memphis restaurants and memories from the cradle of Rhythm and Blues. Check out this video about the city’s musical and culinary roots.
Food will be the topic on the tongues of many of this year’s attendees. Culinary tourism is the new hot issue for destinations all over the world. Kat Robinson will share what makes Arkansas cuisine unique – and how connecting Arkansas-made products, lodging partners, restaurants and farms makes good sense.
You don’t have to have a farm or a garden to make your businesses stand out to the eye. Horticultural Specialist Janet Carson will share how to bring a green thumb to your front door, enticing visitors inside and creating visual and olfactory memories that will bring them back again and again. The expert from the University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service is also offering a special package at the Arkansas Tourism Development Foundation Auction night – an hour long consultation on your garden plus a signed copy of her book, “In The Garden” – a must-have item for any aspiring horticulturalist.
There’s a whole lot of information and enjoyment to be found at the Governor’s Conference, but time is running out to register. Go to www.arkansas.com/governors-conference/ for a registration form.
The fun begins Sunday night with an Early Bird Reception hosted by Southland’s own “Guy Fieri,” who will share an evening of games, foods from famed West Memphis restaurants and memories from the cradle of Rhythm and Blues. Check out this video about the city’s musical and culinary roots.
Food will be the topic on the tongues of many of this year’s attendees. Culinary tourism is the new hot issue for destinations all over the world. Kat Robinson will share what makes Arkansas cuisine unique – and how connecting Arkansas-made products, lodging partners, restaurants and farms makes good sense.
You don’t have to have a farm or a garden to make your businesses stand out to the eye. Horticultural Specialist Janet Carson will share how to bring a green thumb to your front door, enticing visitors inside and creating visual and olfactory memories that will bring them back again and again. The expert from the University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service is also offering a special package at the Arkansas Tourism Development Foundation Auction night – an hour long consultation on your garden plus a signed copy of her book, “In The Garden” – a must-have item for any aspiring horticulturalist.
There’s a whole lot of information and enjoyment to be found at the Governor’s Conference, but time is running out to register. Go to www.arkansas.com/governors-conference/ for a registration form.
Elements of disaster exhitibe debuts at Jacksonport State Park on March 3
Nature’s fury often impacts our world in mighty and destructive ways. The natural history of Jackson County comes front and center as Jacksonport State Park in Newport unveils a new interactive exhibit, “Earth, Wind, Water, Fire: Elements of Disaster,” on March 3.
The exhibit takes visitors on a journey through floods, fires, earthquakes and tornados through photographs and personal accounts. Visitors can also “make” a tornado, “create” an earthquake, and “cause” a flood through the numerous hands-on interactives included in the new exhibit.
The exhibit takes the viewer back in time to “experience” the disasters, including discussion on the actual cause and tips on how to stay safe in the event of a present-day catastrophe.
The exhibit opens to the public on March 3. Park Superintendent Mark Ballard, Arkansas Capitol Historian David Ware, and Jackson County Historian Robert Craig will be on hand to share stories of the calamities that plagued northeast Arkansas throughout history.
For more information, contact Angela Jackson at 870-523-2601. Admission is free.
The exhibit takes visitors on a journey through floods, fires, earthquakes and tornados through photographs and personal accounts. Visitors can also “make” a tornado, “create” an earthquake, and “cause” a flood through the numerous hands-on interactives included in the new exhibit.
The exhibit takes the viewer back in time to “experience” the disasters, including discussion on the actual cause and tips on how to stay safe in the event of a present-day catastrophe.
The exhibit opens to the public on March 3. Park Superintendent Mark Ballard, Arkansas Capitol Historian David Ware, and Jackson County Historian Robert Craig will be on hand to share stories of the calamities that plagued northeast Arkansas throughout history.
For more information, contact Angela Jackson at 870-523-2601. Admission is free.
Special Hot Springs board meeting this afternoon
A special called meeting of the Hot Springs Board of Directors will be held at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, February 28 in the Board Chambers at City Hall, 133 Convention Boulevard. The regularly scheduled city board agenda meeting will follow. The board will consider a resolution adopting a new downtown on-street parking plan and the repeal of Resolution No. 3546.
Bids for roof repairs in Hot Springs
The City of Hot Springs will receive bids until 3 p.m. on Monday, March 12 for rehabilitation work on 2012 citywide CDBG roof projects. The bid meeting will be held at 9 a.m. on Friday, March 9 in City Hall, 133 Convention Boulevard.
Bid specifications are available in the Planning & Development Department, 133 Convention Boulevard, weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. All contractors must meet EPA requirements for lead based paint safe work practices, must be licensed and insured, and must attend the bid meeting. For information, call, 321-6845 or e-mail mscott@cityhs.net.
Bid specifications are available in the Planning & Development Department, 133 Convention Boulevard, weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. All contractors must meet EPA requirements for lead based paint safe work practices, must be licensed and insured, and must attend the bid meeting. For information, call, 321-6845 or e-mail mscott@cityhs.net.
Trials for Life grant information
The Trails for Life Grants Advisory Committee will hold a meeting and conduct the Trails for Life Grant hearings on March 9, 2012 in Jacksonville.
The Committee will meet with the Outdoor Recreation Grants Program staff at 9:00 a.m. and hearings will be held beginning at 1:00 p.m. in meeting rooms A and B of the Jacksonville Community Center, located at Number 5 Municipal Drive, Jacksonville, Arkansas. The Committee has scheduled 10 minutes for each applicant to describe their grant request and answer questions the Committee might have to assist them with the grant award recommendations.
For more information contact John Beneke, Director, Outdoor Recreation Grants Program, Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism, One Capitol Mall, Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 (501) 682-1301.
The Committee will meet with the Outdoor Recreation Grants Program staff at 9:00 a.m. and hearings will be held beginning at 1:00 p.m. in meeting rooms A and B of the Jacksonville Community Center, located at Number 5 Municipal Drive, Jacksonville, Arkansas. The Committee has scheduled 10 minutes for each applicant to describe their grant request and answer questions the Committee might have to assist them with the grant award recommendations.
For more information contact John Beneke, Director, Outdoor Recreation Grants Program, Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism, One Capitol Mall, Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 (501) 682-1301.
Road closure in Hot Springs
Franklin Street between Higdon Ferry Road and Nash Street will be closed to through traffic from 7:45 a.m. until 5 p.m. through Wednesday, February 29 for gas line construction project. Signs will be posted and motorists will need to seek an alternate route during street closure.
Sheriff served as Judge in fundraising event
Garland County Sheriff Sanders, his employees and the Tactical Response Team helped raise over $5,600 for Special Olympics on Saturday, February 25.
Sheriff Sanders, volunteering as a Judge, watched as his employees, and many others, took the plunge into icy water during the 2012 Polar Bear Plunge at Hot Springs Health and Fitness this afternoon.
As a whole, the "plungers" raised a total of over $5,600.00 for Special Olympics during the event.
Sheriff Sanders, volunteering as a Judge, watched as his employees, and many others, took the plunge into icy water during the 2012 Polar Bear Plunge at Hot Springs Health and Fitness this afternoon.
As a whole, the "plungers" raised a total of over $5,600.00 for Special Olympics during the event.
Garland County Project Lifesaver works
A 63-year-old woman reportedly suffering from Alzheimer’s disease wandered off from a local department store Friday, February 24, was found within about 20 minutes thanks to Project Lifesaver.
The woman was at Wal-Mart, 1601 Albert Pike, with her sister, who had gone inside the store briefly while leaving the woman waiting in the car, Garland County Sheriff’s Lt. James Martin said.
The woman apparently got out of her sister’s car and walked over to another person’s car and asked for a ride to what turned out to be the woman’s former residence.
The sister called for help after discovering her sister gone at 1:05 p.m., and sheriff’s deputies, including Capt. Shelby Terry, arrived on the scene at 1:13 p.m. and began canvassing the area, Martin said.
The woman was wearing a Project Lifesaver bracelet and Terry was able to locate her using the band’s radio signal at 1:35 p.m. on Greenwood Avenue – 23 minutes after arriving on the scene.
The person who had given her a ride had dropped her off at her request and she was found near where she used to live. She was unharmed and returned to her family.
“Just another good example of how well the program works,” Sheriff Larry Sanders said.
The woman was at Wal-Mart, 1601 Albert Pike, with her sister, who had gone inside the store briefly while leaving the woman waiting in the car, Garland County Sheriff’s Lt. James Martin said.
The woman apparently got out of her sister’s car and walked over to another person’s car and asked for a ride to what turned out to be the woman’s former residence.
The sister called for help after discovering her sister gone at 1:05 p.m., and sheriff’s deputies, including Capt. Shelby Terry, arrived on the scene at 1:13 p.m. and began canvassing the area, Martin said.
The woman was wearing a Project Lifesaver bracelet and Terry was able to locate her using the band’s radio signal at 1:35 p.m. on Greenwood Avenue – 23 minutes after arriving on the scene.
The person who had given her a ride had dropped her off at her request and she was found near where she used to live. She was unharmed and returned to her family.
“Just another good example of how well the program works,” Sheriff Larry Sanders said.
Sunday, February 26, 2012
Randall applying for jobs elsewhere
Hot Springs Village POA general manager Scott Randall is one of 29 applicants from 16 states vying for Cape Coral's city manager in Florida. Doesn't he know he already has a job?
According to the News-Press the application period ended on January 27 with 60 hopeful applicants. The list has been narrowed down to 29 applicants, including Randall. By March 23 there will be five finalists and then a final vote by the council is set for March 26.
With any luck Villagers will have Scott Randall out of our hair soon.
According to the News-Press the application period ended on January 27 with 60 hopeful applicants. The list has been narrowed down to 29 applicants, including Randall. By March 23 there will be five finalists and then a final vote by the council is set for March 26.
With any luck Villagers will have Scott Randall out of our hair soon.
Saturday, February 25, 2012
Real estate open house in the Vilalge
Hot Springs Village Property Owners’ Association’s Marketing Department and HSV Board of REALTORS are pleased to announce the first Real Estate Open House of 2012- March 31 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Approximately 40 houses in four different price ranges will be featured on the tours. Each tour will have a lunch break at one of our sponsoring restaurants: Paradise Grill, the Pink Olive, Mulligans at Ponce and Diamante. The restaurants will offer Open House attendees a FREE appetizer with a purchase of lunch. Attendees will be required to complete an Open House survey at the restaurant to receive the FREE appetizer coupon. Coupons will be valid for visitors only.
Hot Springs Village is a wonderful place to live and play only 40 minutes from I-430 and I-30.You are invited to discover Hot Springs Village during our Real Estate Open House March 31st. Within our unique twenty-six thousand acre community you will find nine golf courses, eleven lakes, a thirteen clay court tennis facility, eight pickleball courts and over twenty miles of wooded, scenic nature trails. Whether you are looking to build, buy an existing home, invest in a second home, townhouse or condo and/or buy a lot… Hot Springs Village is the Right Choice.
For more information please contact the Chamber of Commerce at 866.984.9963 and/or visit Welcome2HSV.com.
Join the Fun - Do not miss the Open House, March 31- 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Approximately 40 houses in four different price ranges will be featured on the tours. Each tour will have a lunch break at one of our sponsoring restaurants: Paradise Grill, the Pink Olive, Mulligans at Ponce and Diamante. The restaurants will offer Open House attendees a FREE appetizer with a purchase of lunch. Attendees will be required to complete an Open House survey at the restaurant to receive the FREE appetizer coupon. Coupons will be valid for visitors only.
Hot Springs Village is a wonderful place to live and play only 40 minutes from I-430 and I-30.You are invited to discover Hot Springs Village during our Real Estate Open House March 31st. Within our unique twenty-six thousand acre community you will find nine golf courses, eleven lakes, a thirteen clay court tennis facility, eight pickleball courts and over twenty miles of wooded, scenic nature trails. Whether you are looking to build, buy an existing home, invest in a second home, townhouse or condo and/or buy a lot… Hot Springs Village is the Right Choice.
For more information please contact the Chamber of Commerce at 866.984.9963 and/or visit Welcome2HSV.com.
Join the Fun - Do not miss the Open House, March 31- 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
E-blast in the Village
The Hot Springs Village Property Owners’ Association encourages property owners, businesses, visitors, guests and others interested in news from Hot Springs Village to sign up for the E-mail Information System (E-Blast).
Users of the system can choose the kinds of information they receive from the POA. There are seven categories to select from:
• Board Action: Board meeting recaps and votes.
• Closings & Notices: Facility closings, inclement weather announcements, public works news regarding street closings, etc.
• Community Events: Information regarding upcoming community calendar events.
• Lot Auctions: Information on upcoming lot auctions in Garland and Saline counties.
• POA News: General News and Announcements for Hot Springs Village including press releases from the POA.
• Recreation News: News regarding tennis, outdoor recreation, fitness, community center, performing arts center, family recreation area, etc.
• Special Offers: Information on special offers. Property Owner golf specials will only be promoted on the E-blast subscription system.
To sign up go to http://www.hsvpoa.org/ and click on ‘Subscribe to our Mail Lists’ and follow the steps. Users choose their categories and subscribe. An email confirmation will be sent to confirm their sign up. Sign up today and begin receiving information about Hot Springs Village.
Users of the system can choose the kinds of information they receive from the POA. There are seven categories to select from:
• Board Action: Board meeting recaps and votes.
• Closings & Notices: Facility closings, inclement weather announcements, public works news regarding street closings, etc.
• Community Events: Information regarding upcoming community calendar events.
• Lot Auctions: Information on upcoming lot auctions in Garland and Saline counties.
• POA News: General News and Announcements for Hot Springs Village including press releases from the POA.
• Recreation News: News regarding tennis, outdoor recreation, fitness, community center, performing arts center, family recreation area, etc.
• Special Offers: Information on special offers. Property Owner golf specials will only be promoted on the E-blast subscription system.
To sign up go to http://www.hsvpoa.org/ and click on ‘Subscribe to our Mail Lists’ and follow the steps. Users choose their categories and subscribe. An email confirmation will be sent to confirm their sign up. Sign up today and begin receiving information about Hot Springs Village.
British week in the Village
Hot Springs Village Property Owners’ Association is pleased to announce British Week to be held June 1-8 in Hot Springs Village.
Exciting events planned during this week include:
• Concours d’Elegance / British Car National Meet with Gourmet Food Trucks (June 2)- 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. - Ponce De Leon Center
• Bridge Club High Tea –June 4, 1 p.m.
• Lawn Bowling Open House- June 3, 1 to 3 p.m.
• Pub Crawls with Pints as low as $2.00- June 1, 5 & 8 - 7 to 10 p.m.
• British Movie Night- June 4, 5 p.m.
• Golf Prizes for wearing British Attire on the courses
• “1964…The Tribute” – June 6 & 7, 7:30 p.m.
Volunteers are needed to help plan and assist with British Week. Please contact Cindy at the HSV Chamber of Commerce 915-9940 or email Stacy Hoover shoover@hsvpoa.org to sign up. Go to www.HSVEvent.com and start planning your week.
Exciting events planned during this week include:
• Concours d’Elegance / British Car National Meet with Gourmet Food Trucks (June 2)- 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. - Ponce De Leon Center
• Bridge Club High Tea –June 4, 1 p.m.
• Lawn Bowling Open House- June 3, 1 to 3 p.m.
• Pub Crawls with Pints as low as $2.00- June 1, 5 & 8 - 7 to 10 p.m.
• British Movie Night- June 4, 5 p.m.
• Golf Prizes for wearing British Attire on the courses
• “1964…The Tribute” – June 6 & 7, 7:30 p.m.
Volunteers are needed to help plan and assist with British Week. Please contact Cindy at the HSV Chamber of Commerce 915-9940 or email Stacy Hoover shoover@hsvpoa.org to sign up. Go to www.HSVEvent.com and start planning your week.
Pickleball open house
Hot Springs Property Owners Association will be holding an open house at the pickleball courts on Saturday, March 24 and Sunday, March 25 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
The Pickleball courts are located at the Desoto Family Recreation Area on Desoto Blvd. Refreshments will be available, as well as demonstrations and instructions for those interested in playing.
Participants should wear appropriate sportswear and athletic shoes. Contact Fern Hancock, Recreation department at 922-0322 for additional information or visit our website at http://www.hsvpickleball.org/.
The Pickleball courts are located at the Desoto Family Recreation Area on Desoto Blvd. Refreshments will be available, as well as demonstrations and instructions for those interested in playing.
Participants should wear appropriate sportswear and athletic shoes. Contact Fern Hancock, Recreation department at 922-0322 for additional information or visit our website at http://www.hsvpickleball.org/.
Triathlon in the Village
Hot Springs Village Property Owners’ Association’s Marketing Department is pleased to announce our first annual Triathlon to be held on Saturday, June 9: TRI-the-Village.
The triathlon will include a 500 yard swim at Balboa Lake, 4-5 Mile run on Magellan Golf Course cart path and a 12.5 Mile Cycle ride ending at Balboa Pavilion. All members and guests are welcome to participate –run, bike, swim, triathlon and/or cheer on the participants! Save the Date!
Event registration information will be announced soon. Relays will be available once registration opens; which means teams of runners will be teamed up with cyclers and/or swimmers. Come Join the Fun!
Runners! Cyclers! Swimmers! Kayakers! We need you! Please email dbotkin@hsvpoa.org if you are interested in volunteering to assist with this exciting Village event. A team of 15 volunteers is needed for the following :
• Overall Volunteer Coordinator
• Medical Coordinator
• Transition Coordinator
• Swim Coordinator
• Bike Course Coordinator
• Run Course Coordinator
• Finish Line and Post Race Area Coordinator
• Kayak Coordinator (for the swim section of the Triathlon)
• Food Service Coordinator
Sponsorship are available including a presenting sponsor opportunity. Please email dbotkin@hsvpoa.org today and become a sponsor. The charity for Tri-the-Village is Teen Challenge of Arkansas. For more information, go to http://www.hsvevent.com/.
The triathlon will include a 500 yard swim at Balboa Lake, 4-5 Mile run on Magellan Golf Course cart path and a 12.5 Mile Cycle ride ending at Balboa Pavilion. All members and guests are welcome to participate –run, bike, swim, triathlon and/or cheer on the participants! Save the Date!
Event registration information will be announced soon. Relays will be available once registration opens; which means teams of runners will be teamed up with cyclers and/or swimmers. Come Join the Fun!
Runners! Cyclers! Swimmers! Kayakers! We need you! Please email dbotkin@hsvpoa.org if you are interested in volunteering to assist with this exciting Village event. A team of 15 volunteers is needed for the following :
• Overall Volunteer Coordinator
• Medical Coordinator
• Transition Coordinator
• Swim Coordinator
• Bike Course Coordinator
• Run Course Coordinator
• Finish Line and Post Race Area Coordinator
• Kayak Coordinator (for the swim section of the Triathlon)
• Food Service Coordinator
Sponsorship are available including a presenting sponsor opportunity. Please email dbotkin@hsvpoa.org today and become a sponsor. The charity for Tri-the-Village is Teen Challenge of Arkansas. For more information, go to http://www.hsvevent.com/.
Pay Village assessments by online credit card payment
Hot Springs Village Property Owners’ Association (HSVPOA) has an online credit card payment option to pay your assessment and or POA utility bill. Go to the POA website at www.hsvpoa.org and click on Pay Assessment/Utilities button on the right side.
The POA accepts Visa, MasterCard and Discover. To pay by credit card, you will need your Lot/Block/Addition number as well as the individual account number associated with your assessment and or POA utility bill. The actual processing of your credit card is made through a third party secure site. The POA does not retain any credit card information. If you enter your email address, you will receive an electronic receipt.
Please contact the POA at (501) 922-5519 or (501) 922-5556 with questions.
The POA accepts Visa, MasterCard and Discover. To pay by credit card, you will need your Lot/Block/Addition number as well as the individual account number associated with your assessment and or POA utility bill. The actual processing of your credit card is made through a third party secure site. The POA does not retain any credit card information. If you enter your email address, you will receive an electronic receipt.
Please contact the POA at (501) 922-5519 or (501) 922-5556 with questions.
Governor's Conference on Tourism
The 38th Arkansas Governor’s Conference on Tourism is next week. Are you registered? Registration has been extended – and now there are three ways to reserve:
· Mail it. Your letter must be postmarked by Monday, February 27th.
· Fax it in to (501) 682-2523.
· Call (501) 682-6999 and speak to Dorreta George. She will happily take your registration and credit card information over the phone.
You’ll find your registration packet here. If you can’t register in advance, there will be registration at the door – but you’ll miss out on that significant price break!
You really don’t want to miss the conference this year. Our slate of speakers includes intriguing people with great advice.
General Russel Honoré, the man who took charge in restoring order and coordinating military efforts as commander of Joint Task Force Katrina, will share how to better prepare yourself and your business for any sort of disaster.
Attendees will hear from Dave Carroll, the Canadian musician whose song “United Breaks Guitars” became a YouTube Sensation, on how social media has changed customer service.
Spike Jones talks about brand ambassadorship, how social media has not replaced traditional word of mouth advertising, and what you need to do to stay on top of both.
Bill Carter plans to relate his experience on the Arkansas music scene, from providing security for the Rolling Stones to managing great country music acts like Reba McIntire, Shenandoah and Waylon Jennings.
Our sessions will also touch on why it’s economically smart to save historic Civil War battlefields; how to make your business more sustainable; how Arkansas food and foodways can bring tourists to your door; what to expect from new legislation and how to bring curb appeal to your property.
You’ll also want to reserve space at one of our participating hotels. Rooms are still available at the Days Inn West Memphis (870-735-8600) and at the Red Roof Inn (870-735-7100). Shuttles will run between all five of our participating hotels and Southland Park Gaming & Racing, the site for this year’s conference.
And be sure to bring cash to purchase items for the Arkansas Tourism Development Foundation Auction. The money raised at the auction goes to fund scholarships for students seeking degrees in the hospitality industry. We’re still accepting neat and unusual items for the auction. It’s a great way to showcase your business, attraction or region in front of the movers and shakers in Arkansas Tourism. If you’d prefer to bring your items when you come to the conference, that’s great; just contact Tiffany Knox at (501) 324-1524 or tiffany.knox@arkansas.gov.
There’s so much going on at this year’s Arkansas Governor’s Conference on Tourism. Be sure to reserve your spot today!
· Mail it. Your letter must be postmarked by Monday, February 27th.
· Fax it in to (501) 682-2523.
· Call (501) 682-6999 and speak to Dorreta George. She will happily take your registration and credit card information over the phone.
You’ll find your registration packet here. If you can’t register in advance, there will be registration at the door – but you’ll miss out on that significant price break!
You really don’t want to miss the conference this year. Our slate of speakers includes intriguing people with great advice.
General Russel Honoré, the man who took charge in restoring order and coordinating military efforts as commander of Joint Task Force Katrina, will share how to better prepare yourself and your business for any sort of disaster.
Attendees will hear from Dave Carroll, the Canadian musician whose song “United Breaks Guitars” became a YouTube Sensation, on how social media has changed customer service.
Spike Jones talks about brand ambassadorship, how social media has not replaced traditional word of mouth advertising, and what you need to do to stay on top of both.
Bill Carter plans to relate his experience on the Arkansas music scene, from providing security for the Rolling Stones to managing great country music acts like Reba McIntire, Shenandoah and Waylon Jennings.
Our sessions will also touch on why it’s economically smart to save historic Civil War battlefields; how to make your business more sustainable; how Arkansas food and foodways can bring tourists to your door; what to expect from new legislation and how to bring curb appeal to your property.
You’ll also want to reserve space at one of our participating hotels. Rooms are still available at the Days Inn West Memphis (870-735-8600) and at the Red Roof Inn (870-735-7100). Shuttles will run between all five of our participating hotels and Southland Park Gaming & Racing, the site for this year’s conference.
And be sure to bring cash to purchase items for the Arkansas Tourism Development Foundation Auction. The money raised at the auction goes to fund scholarships for students seeking degrees in the hospitality industry. We’re still accepting neat and unusual items for the auction. It’s a great way to showcase your business, attraction or region in front of the movers and shakers in Arkansas Tourism. If you’d prefer to bring your items when you come to the conference, that’s great; just contact Tiffany Knox at (501) 324-1524 or tiffany.knox@arkansas.gov.
There’s so much going on at this year’s Arkansas Governor’s Conference on Tourism. Be sure to reserve your spot today!
Friday, February 24, 2012
Hot Springs on Post Office chopping block
As a result of studies begun five months ago, the Postal Service has made the decision to move all mail processing operations from the Hot Springs Customer Service Mail Processing Center to the Little Rock Processing and Distribution Center. Once the transfer is completed, the mail processing operation of Hot Springs Customer Service Mail Processing Center will cease.
There will be no change to the Business Mail Entry Unit at the Hot Springs Customer Service Mail Processing Center at this time.
The Postal Service has experienced a 25 percent decline in First-Class Mail volume since 2006, and receives no tax dollars for its operations, relying instead on the sale of postage, and postal products and services.
“The decision to consolidate mail processing facilities recognizes the urgent need to reduce the size of the national mail processing network to eliminate costly underutilized infrastructure,” said Chief Operating Officer Megan Brennan. “Consolidating operations is necessary if the Postal Service is to remain viable to provide mail service to the nation.”
Specific dates have not been set for the transition. Until a specific date has been announced, residential and business mailers will continue to be served through the current facilities.
In December 2011, the Postal Service agreed to impose a moratorium on closing or consolidating post offices and mail processing facilities prior to May 15, 2012, to give Congress and the Administration the opportunity to enact an alternative plan.
This delay was designed to allow Congress sufficient time to enact comprehensive postal legislation. In the meantime, the Postal Service continued all necessary steps required for the review of these facilities, including public notifications, public input meetings and consideration of public comments.
Implementation of this consolidation is contingent upon the outcome of pending rulemaking for a proposal to revise existing service standards. This announcement is provided in advance so that appropriate planning and notification can be made in accordance with existing employee agreements.
A list of mail processing studies and their status is available at usps.com/ourfuturenetwork. Specific information about individual studies, including public meeting summaries and summary briefs, is posted on the website, usps.com/areamailprocessing, as it becomes available.
There will be no change to the Business Mail Entry Unit at the Hot Springs Customer Service Mail Processing Center at this time.
The Postal Service has experienced a 25 percent decline in First-Class Mail volume since 2006, and receives no tax dollars for its operations, relying instead on the sale of postage, and postal products and services.
“The decision to consolidate mail processing facilities recognizes the urgent need to reduce the size of the national mail processing network to eliminate costly underutilized infrastructure,” said Chief Operating Officer Megan Brennan. “Consolidating operations is necessary if the Postal Service is to remain viable to provide mail service to the nation.”
Specific dates have not been set for the transition. Until a specific date has been announced, residential and business mailers will continue to be served through the current facilities.
In December 2011, the Postal Service agreed to impose a moratorium on closing or consolidating post offices and mail processing facilities prior to May 15, 2012, to give Congress and the Administration the opportunity to enact an alternative plan.
This delay was designed to allow Congress sufficient time to enact comprehensive postal legislation. In the meantime, the Postal Service continued all necessary steps required for the review of these facilities, including public notifications, public input meetings and consideration of public comments.
Implementation of this consolidation is contingent upon the outcome of pending rulemaking for a proposal to revise existing service standards. This announcement is provided in advance so that appropriate planning and notification can be made in accordance with existing employee agreements.
A list of mail processing studies and their status is available at usps.com/ourfuturenetwork. Specific information about individual studies, including public meeting summaries and summary briefs, is posted on the website, usps.com/areamailprocessing, as it becomes available.
Hot Springs board of directors meeting
The next regular Hot Springs board of directors meeting will take place at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, March 6 instead of the usual 7 p.m. time, in the board chambers at City Hall, 133 Convention Boulevard. The meeting time change will allow Board members to attend a function at which Governor Mike Beebe is the keynote speaker.
The board meeting will be broadcast that evening on a delayed basis on HSTV-15, Hot Springs’ government access channel on Resort Television Cable, during the usual time slot of 7 p.m., and will be re-broadcast over the next two days according to the usual schedule. The HSTV-15 broadcast schedule can be found online at http://www.cityhs.net/departments_public_info_hstv.html.
The board meeting will be broadcast that evening on a delayed basis on HSTV-15, Hot Springs’ government access channel on Resort Television Cable, during the usual time slot of 7 p.m., and will be re-broadcast over the next two days according to the usual schedule. The HSTV-15 broadcast schedule can be found online at http://www.cityhs.net/departments_public_info_hstv.html.
Jonquil Festival in March
The Jonquil Festival at Historic Washington State Park is March 16, 17 and 18, but the Jonquils are here now, so come and see us now and then.
Historic Washington State Park, a restoration village preserving one of Arkansas’s most prominent 19th-Century towns, is located on US 278 nine miles north of Hope and can be reached by taking Exit 30 off Interstate 30. For more information visit www.HistoricWashingonStatePark.com or call (870) 983-2684.
Historic Washington State Park, a restoration village preserving one of Arkansas’s most prominent 19th-Century towns, is located on US 278 nine miles north of Hope and can be reached by taking Exit 30 off Interstate 30. For more information visit www.HistoricWashingonStatePark.com or call (870) 983-2684.
Whole Hog Cafe now at Little Rock National Airport
HMSHost, world leader in travel dining and shopping, announced today that new hometown favorites in dining and beverage will land at Little Rock National Airport (LIT) in late spring.
Arkansas, known for its southern hospitality, has been home to Whole Hog Café since the restaurant’s founding on Cantrell Road in Little Rock in 2000. Whole Hog Café is an Arkansas institution, and has welcomed two U.S. Presidents through its doors: Bill Clinton and George W. Bush. Whole Hog Café is listed by the respected travel authority, Fodor's as one of 1 of 5 “Don’t Miss” restaurants in Arkansas. Whole Hog Café at the airport can be found adjacent to Gate 6.
“As our business has grown throughout the region, having a location at the Little Rock National Airport with HMSHost has become a natural extension of the Whole Hog brand," said Chris Maynes, President of Whole Hog Cafe. "We're glad that we can share our award-winning barbecue with visitors to Arkansas.”
HMSHost is broadening its beverage offerings at several LIT restaurants. Travelers can enjoy spirits from Rock Town Distillery at the pre-security River Bend Bar & Grill, as well as post-security Ouachita Landing restaurant and the Ouachita Brewhouse, thanks to a partnership between HMSHost and this distilling company. Rock Town Distillery is an Arkansas-owned and operated business creating a selection of spirits including its award-winning Brandon’s Vodka and Brandon’s Gin, Arkansas Lightning and Arkansas Young Bourbon Whiskey. Each of these spirits is made by hand using locally-grown ingredients.
“We are thrilled to include Whole Hog Café and spirits from Rock Town Distillery to the airport’s dining and beverage options,” said Jim Dailey, Chairman of the Little Rock Municipal Airport Commission. “As the gateway to our wonderful city and state, we are committed to showcasing one-of-a-kind Arkansas experiences. Whole Hog Café and Rock Town Distillery undoubtedly fit that bill.”
Little Rock National Airport aims to provide passengers and visitors the taste and feel of Arkansas throughout their airport experience. The addition of Whole Hog Café and spirits from Rock Town Distillery continues the airport’s effort to showcase Arkansas-based favorites.
“In keeping with HMSHost’s strategy of reflecting local flavor at an airport, we’re proud to welcome Whole Hog Café and spirits from Rock Town Distillery to our roster,” said Stephen Douglas, Vice President of Business Development, HMSHost.
As a major driver in Little Rock’s economy, the Little Rock National Airport works to support local business throughout the airport’s operations. The airport has a $1.2 billion annual impact on the local economy; it welcomed 2.2 million travelers in 2011.
About Little Rock National Airport
Little Rock National Airport is the state’s largest commercial service airport, serving 2.2 million passengers annually. As Arkansans’ “Gateway to the World,” the airport is home to seven airlines with 124 flight arrivals and departures each day. Non-stop jet service is provided to 16 national gateway cities. The airport is currently in Phase I of a major construction initiative that will eventually transform it into an international airport. Little Rock National Airport plays a major role in the city’s economy with a more than $1.2 billion impact each year, including providing Arkansans with more than 4,000 jobs on the airport’s 2,200 acres. For more information, visit http://www.fly-lit.com/.
About HMSHost
HMSHost is a world leader in creating dining and shopping for travel venues. HMSHost operates in more than 100 airports around the globe, including the 20 busiest airports in North America. The Company has annual sales in excess of $2.5 billion and employs more than 34,000 sales associates worldwide. HMSHost is a part of Autogrill Group, the world’s leading provider of food & beverage and retail services for people on the move. With sales of over €5.7 billion in 2010, the Group operates in 35 countries and employs some 62,000 people. It manages over 5,300 stores in more than 1,200 locations worldwide. Visit www.HMSHost.com for more information and find us on Facebook at HMSHost Making the Traveler’s Day Better.
Arkansas, known for its southern hospitality, has been home to Whole Hog Café since the restaurant’s founding on Cantrell Road in Little Rock in 2000. Whole Hog Café is an Arkansas institution, and has welcomed two U.S. Presidents through its doors: Bill Clinton and George W. Bush. Whole Hog Café is listed by the respected travel authority, Fodor's as one of 1 of 5 “Don’t Miss” restaurants in Arkansas. Whole Hog Café at the airport can be found adjacent to Gate 6.
“As our business has grown throughout the region, having a location at the Little Rock National Airport with HMSHost has become a natural extension of the Whole Hog brand," said Chris Maynes, President of Whole Hog Cafe. "We're glad that we can share our award-winning barbecue with visitors to Arkansas.”
HMSHost is broadening its beverage offerings at several LIT restaurants. Travelers can enjoy spirits from Rock Town Distillery at the pre-security River Bend Bar & Grill, as well as post-security Ouachita Landing restaurant and the Ouachita Brewhouse, thanks to a partnership between HMSHost and this distilling company. Rock Town Distillery is an Arkansas-owned and operated business creating a selection of spirits including its award-winning Brandon’s Vodka and Brandon’s Gin, Arkansas Lightning and Arkansas Young Bourbon Whiskey. Each of these spirits is made by hand using locally-grown ingredients.
“We are thrilled to include Whole Hog Café and spirits from Rock Town Distillery to the airport’s dining and beverage options,” said Jim Dailey, Chairman of the Little Rock Municipal Airport Commission. “As the gateway to our wonderful city and state, we are committed to showcasing one-of-a-kind Arkansas experiences. Whole Hog Café and Rock Town Distillery undoubtedly fit that bill.”
Little Rock National Airport aims to provide passengers and visitors the taste and feel of Arkansas throughout their airport experience. The addition of Whole Hog Café and spirits from Rock Town Distillery continues the airport’s effort to showcase Arkansas-based favorites.
“In keeping with HMSHost’s strategy of reflecting local flavor at an airport, we’re proud to welcome Whole Hog Café and spirits from Rock Town Distillery to our roster,” said Stephen Douglas, Vice President of Business Development, HMSHost.
As a major driver in Little Rock’s economy, the Little Rock National Airport works to support local business throughout the airport’s operations. The airport has a $1.2 billion annual impact on the local economy; it welcomed 2.2 million travelers in 2011.
About Little Rock National Airport
Little Rock National Airport is the state’s largest commercial service airport, serving 2.2 million passengers annually. As Arkansans’ “Gateway to the World,” the airport is home to seven airlines with 124 flight arrivals and departures each day. Non-stop jet service is provided to 16 national gateway cities. The airport is currently in Phase I of a major construction initiative that will eventually transform it into an international airport. Little Rock National Airport plays a major role in the city’s economy with a more than $1.2 billion impact each year, including providing Arkansans with more than 4,000 jobs on the airport’s 2,200 acres. For more information, visit http://www.fly-lit.com/.
About HMSHost
HMSHost is a world leader in creating dining and shopping for travel venues. HMSHost operates in more than 100 airports around the globe, including the 20 busiest airports in North America. The Company has annual sales in excess of $2.5 billion and employs more than 34,000 sales associates worldwide. HMSHost is a part of Autogrill Group, the world’s leading provider of food & beverage and retail services for people on the move. With sales of over €5.7 billion in 2010, the Group operates in 35 countries and employs some 62,000 people. It manages over 5,300 stores in more than 1,200 locations worldwide. Visit www.HMSHost.com for more information and find us on Facebook at HMSHost Making the Traveler’s Day Better.
Message from U.S. Congressman Mike Ross
As you know, I have been a strong advocate for the extension of the payroll tax cut for working families. In December of 2010, I voted for the two-percentage-point reduction in payroll taxes for 2011, and late last year, I voted for and helped pass a two-month extension of that payroll tax cut so that American workers’ taxes wouldn’t go up on January 1st of this year.
The extension passed last December also protected Medicare reimbursements to providers as well as unemployment insurance benefits for out-of-work Americans. The payroll tax cut extension was scheduled to expire at the end of this month, meaning every working American would have seen their taxes go up on March 1st unless Congress acted.
This would have been no small tax increase, either. For an average family that makes $50,000 per year, they would have seen their taxes go up around $84 a month for the remainder of this year – nearly $1,000 for the rest of the year. Times are already too tough and a steep tax increase will make times even more difficult for families all across the state of Arkansas.
Last week, Democrats and Republicans came together, found common ground and reached a deal that allowed us to continue providing tax relief and economic assistance to millions of hardworking families in a bipartisan way. In addition to extending these important payroll tax cuts through the end of this year, this legislation continues unemployment benefits for American workers, and avoids a reimbursement rate cut for health care providers who treat and care for patients on Medicare.
Too many Americans continue to find themselves out of work through no fault of their own and the unemployment benefits included in this bill will help them get back on their feet and support their families.
Fundamentally, I have always believed that working families know how to spend their money better than the federal government and that’s why I supported this common sense tax cut extension. Overall, this legislation will be a big help to a great number of families in Arkansas and across America and it will be critical to ensuring our economy continues to recover and grow. In fact, the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office estimates payroll tax cuts would generate up to 90 cents on the dollar in economic activity, helping to increase production and create jobs.
As your Congressman, I will continue working with both Democrats and Republicans, bringing them together to find commonsense ways we can cut taxes and reduce our deficit. Rest assured my focus will continue to be on our economic recovery and on creating jobs for families in Arkansas’s Fourth Congressional District. I believe extending these tax cuts for everyone will help with our economic recovery as we bounce back from these tough times.
The extension passed last December also protected Medicare reimbursements to providers as well as unemployment insurance benefits for out-of-work Americans. The payroll tax cut extension was scheduled to expire at the end of this month, meaning every working American would have seen their taxes go up on March 1st unless Congress acted.
This would have been no small tax increase, either. For an average family that makes $50,000 per year, they would have seen their taxes go up around $84 a month for the remainder of this year – nearly $1,000 for the rest of the year. Times are already too tough and a steep tax increase will make times even more difficult for families all across the state of Arkansas.
Last week, Democrats and Republicans came together, found common ground and reached a deal that allowed us to continue providing tax relief and economic assistance to millions of hardworking families in a bipartisan way. In addition to extending these important payroll tax cuts through the end of this year, this legislation continues unemployment benefits for American workers, and avoids a reimbursement rate cut for health care providers who treat and care for patients on Medicare.
Too many Americans continue to find themselves out of work through no fault of their own and the unemployment benefits included in this bill will help them get back on their feet and support their families.
Fundamentally, I have always believed that working families know how to spend their money better than the federal government and that’s why I supported this common sense tax cut extension. Overall, this legislation will be a big help to a great number of families in Arkansas and across America and it will be critical to ensuring our economy continues to recover and grow. In fact, the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office estimates payroll tax cuts would generate up to 90 cents on the dollar in economic activity, helping to increase production and create jobs.
As your Congressman, I will continue working with both Democrats and Republicans, bringing them together to find commonsense ways we can cut taxes and reduce our deficit. Rest assured my focus will continue to be on our economic recovery and on creating jobs for families in Arkansas’s Fourth Congressional District. I believe extending these tax cuts for everyone will help with our economic recovery as we bounce back from these tough times.
Auditions and performances in Arkansas
The Weekend Theater, 7th & Chester in downtown Little Rock, will hold auditions for the summer musicals at 10 a.m. Saturday, March 10, and 5 p.m. Sunday, March 11. Auditioners will sing a song they've prepared and an accompanist will be provided, read from the script, and work with a choreographer. A...My Name is Alice will rehearse April 7-May 3 and perform May 4-20, Spring Awakening will rehearse May 5-June 7 and perform June 8-July 1, and The Full Monty will rehearse June 9-July 12 and perform July 13-August 4. For more information, visit www.weekendtheater.org or call 501-374-3761.
Upcoming Productions
The South Arkansas Arts Center in El Dorado will present Father of the Bride, from the novel by Edward Streeter and illustrated by Gluyas Williams. The production, that runs March 1-4 & 9-11, is sponsored by Teague Auto Group and Southern Bancorp. Associate sponsors are Henard Utility Products and Lowery Drug/Ken's and Medic Sav-On Pharmacy. Tickets: $5 Students, $10 SAAC Members and $15 General Public. For reservations, call 870-862-5474.
Center on the Square in Searcy presents Greater Tuna, written by Jaston Williams and Joe Sears. Dinner shows: 7:30 p.m. February 23-25, March 2-3, 9-10. Pizza Playhouse: March 1 and Lunch Matinee: March 11. For more information and reservations, call 501-368-0111 or http://www.centeronthesquare.org/.
The Weekend Theater will present The Miracle Worker, by William Gibson, at 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, March 9-24. The production is directed by Andy Hall. Tickets are $16, $12 for students and seniors age 65 and older. For reservations or more information, visit www.weekendtheater.org or call 501-374-3761.
NOTE: The Weekend Theater now offers patrons the opportunity to purchase tickets online at www.weekendtheater.org. Click on the link to "Buy Tickets Now". Season ticket holders may also make their reservations online using the link. Tickets may also be purchased at the door prior to each performance based on availability. Reservations by phone will no longer be available. For more information, visit the website, email execdirector.twt@gmail.com, or call 501-374-3761.
The Community Theatre of Little Rock presents We All Hear Voices, by Dr. Sam Taggart. Show dates are February 24th and 25th, March 2nd, 3rd, 9th and 10th at 7:30 pm and February 26th, March 4th and 11th at 2pm. Regular admission is $14 for adults and $12 for military, students and seniors age 65 and over. Groups of 10 or more can get in for $12 and children age six and under are free. Dr. Taggart will be signing copies of the novel “We All Hear Voices” on February 24th. Copies will be on sale during the full run of the show for $15.00. A portion of the proceeds from sales will go to CTLR.
CTLR is partnering with Go! Running Athletic Shoe Store, Little Rock Road Runner’s Club and the Running Reshoe Program to collect new and gently used shoes. For information about the “A Mile in Their Shoes” campaign, contact Erin Taylor at 501-813-7155.
The Lantern Theatre in Conway is presenting Driving Miss Daisy. Tickets are $12 each and may be paid for at the door. Cash, check, or credit/debit cards are accepted. Performance dates are February 23, 24, 25, March 1, 2, 3 at 7:30 pm and February 26 and March 4 at 2:30 pm. However, the following dates are sold out: February 23, 24, and March 2. The dates available at this time are Feb. 25 & 26, March 1, 3 & 4. For more information, go to conwaylanterntheatre@gmail.com . To make reservations, call 501-733-6220.
Upcoming Productions
The South Arkansas Arts Center in El Dorado will present Father of the Bride, from the novel by Edward Streeter and illustrated by Gluyas Williams. The production, that runs March 1-4 & 9-11, is sponsored by Teague Auto Group and Southern Bancorp. Associate sponsors are Henard Utility Products and Lowery Drug/Ken's and Medic Sav-On Pharmacy. Tickets: $5 Students, $10 SAAC Members and $15 General Public. For reservations, call 870-862-5474.
Center on the Square in Searcy presents Greater Tuna, written by Jaston Williams and Joe Sears. Dinner shows: 7:30 p.m. February 23-25, March 2-3, 9-10. Pizza Playhouse: March 1 and Lunch Matinee: March 11. For more information and reservations, call 501-368-0111 or http://www.centeronthesquare.org/.
The Weekend Theater will present The Miracle Worker, by William Gibson, at 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, March 9-24. The production is directed by Andy Hall. Tickets are $16, $12 for students and seniors age 65 and older. For reservations or more information, visit www.weekendtheater.org or call 501-374-3761.
NOTE: The Weekend Theater now offers patrons the opportunity to purchase tickets online at www.weekendtheater.org. Click on the link to "Buy Tickets Now". Season ticket holders may also make their reservations online using the link. Tickets may also be purchased at the door prior to each performance based on availability. Reservations by phone will no longer be available. For more information, visit the website, email execdirector.twt@gmail.com, or call 501-374-3761.
The Community Theatre of Little Rock presents We All Hear Voices, by Dr. Sam Taggart. Show dates are February 24th and 25th, March 2nd, 3rd, 9th and 10th at 7:30 pm and February 26th, March 4th and 11th at 2pm. Regular admission is $14 for adults and $12 for military, students and seniors age 65 and over. Groups of 10 or more can get in for $12 and children age six and under are free. Dr. Taggart will be signing copies of the novel “We All Hear Voices” on February 24th. Copies will be on sale during the full run of the show for $15.00. A portion of the proceeds from sales will go to CTLR.
CTLR is partnering with Go! Running Athletic Shoe Store, Little Rock Road Runner’s Club and the Running Reshoe Program to collect new and gently used shoes. For information about the “A Mile in Their Shoes” campaign, contact Erin Taylor at 501-813-7155.
The Lantern Theatre in Conway is presenting Driving Miss Daisy. Tickets are $12 each and may be paid for at the door. Cash, check, or credit/debit cards are accepted. Performance dates are February 23, 24, 25, March 1, 2, 3 at 7:30 pm and February 26 and March 4 at 2:30 pm. However, the following dates are sold out: February 23, 24, and March 2. The dates available at this time are Feb. 25 & 26, March 1, 3 & 4. For more information, go to conwaylanterntheatre@gmail.com . To make reservations, call 501-733-6220.
Ag Safety Awarness Week next week
Across the country, Farm Bureaus are making safety a top priority this spring through the Agricultural Safety Awareness Program (ASAP). As a part of ASAP, March 4-10 has been designated as Agricultural Safety Awareness Week.
This year’s theme, “Agricultural Safety: Your Best Investment,” emphasizes making farms and ranches safer for farmers, their family members and employees, with special emphasis on children.
People of all ages, but particularly children, are at risk of injuries on the farm. Educating adults about reducing risks to the children in their care is critical to preventing farm and ranch incidents and fatalities.
“Most farmers have at least tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars and countless hours invested in their land, equipment, and animals,” said Jason Kaufman, safety coordinator for Arkansas Farm Bureau. “It's important they invest some of their time and money toward safety to protect their farm, employees and family.”
According to the latest figures from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:
• Every day, 243 agricultural workers suffer lost-work-time injury. Five percent of these injuries result in permanent impairment. That equates to 12 workers daily who sustain injuries resulting in permanent disabilities.
• Approximately 1,783,000 full-time workers were employed in production agriculture in the U.S. in 2009. During this same year, 440 farmers and farm workers died from a work-related injury for a fatality rate of 24.7 deaths per 100,000 workers.
• Of the leading sources of fatal injuries to youth on U.S. farms, 23 percent involved machinery (including tractors), 19 percent involved motor vehicles (including ATVs) and 16 percent were due to drowning.
• Between 1992 and 2009, 9,003 farmers and farm workers died from work-related injuries in the U.S. The leading cause of death for these workers was tractor overturns, accounting for more than 90 deaths annually.
• The most effective way to prevent tractor-overturn deaths is the use of a Roll-Over Protective Structure (ROPS). In 2006, only 59 percent of tractors used on U.S. farms were equipped with ROPS. If ROPS were placed on all tractors used on U.S. farms manufactured since the mid-1960s, the prevalence of ROPS-equipped tractors could be increased to over 80 percent.
These statistics emphasize the reason why, during Ag Safety Awareness Week and throughout the year, state Farm Bureaus are focused on making farms and ranches safer for farmers, their family members and employees. To accomplish this, Arkansas Farm Bureau has two full-time safety coordinators on staff.
“The safety coordinators at Arkansas Farm Bureau are dedicated to educating Arkansans about safety concerns,” said coordinator Amanda Williams. “Some of the programs offered include Farm/Tractor Safety, ATV Safety, Distracted Driving Prevention, and Drinking and Driving Prevention.”
For more information, visit the “Programs & Activities” section of Arkansas Farm Bureau’s website, http://www.arfb.com/.
This year’s theme, “Agricultural Safety: Your Best Investment,” emphasizes making farms and ranches safer for farmers, their family members and employees, with special emphasis on children.
People of all ages, but particularly children, are at risk of injuries on the farm. Educating adults about reducing risks to the children in their care is critical to preventing farm and ranch incidents and fatalities.
“Most farmers have at least tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars and countless hours invested in their land, equipment, and animals,” said Jason Kaufman, safety coordinator for Arkansas Farm Bureau. “It's important they invest some of their time and money toward safety to protect their farm, employees and family.”
According to the latest figures from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:
• Every day, 243 agricultural workers suffer lost-work-time injury. Five percent of these injuries result in permanent impairment. That equates to 12 workers daily who sustain injuries resulting in permanent disabilities.
• Approximately 1,783,000 full-time workers were employed in production agriculture in the U.S. in 2009. During this same year, 440 farmers and farm workers died from a work-related injury for a fatality rate of 24.7 deaths per 100,000 workers.
• Of the leading sources of fatal injuries to youth on U.S. farms, 23 percent involved machinery (including tractors), 19 percent involved motor vehicles (including ATVs) and 16 percent were due to drowning.
• Between 1992 and 2009, 9,003 farmers and farm workers died from work-related injuries in the U.S. The leading cause of death for these workers was tractor overturns, accounting for more than 90 deaths annually.
• The most effective way to prevent tractor-overturn deaths is the use of a Roll-Over Protective Structure (ROPS). In 2006, only 59 percent of tractors used on U.S. farms were equipped with ROPS. If ROPS were placed on all tractors used on U.S. farms manufactured since the mid-1960s, the prevalence of ROPS-equipped tractors could be increased to over 80 percent.
These statistics emphasize the reason why, during Ag Safety Awareness Week and throughout the year, state Farm Bureaus are focused on making farms and ranches safer for farmers, their family members and employees. To accomplish this, Arkansas Farm Bureau has two full-time safety coordinators on staff.
“The safety coordinators at Arkansas Farm Bureau are dedicated to educating Arkansans about safety concerns,” said coordinator Amanda Williams. “Some of the programs offered include Farm/Tractor Safety, ATV Safety, Distracted Driving Prevention, and Drinking and Driving Prevention.”
For more information, visit the “Programs & Activities” section of Arkansas Farm Bureau’s website, http://www.arfb.com/.
Hometown health conference
2012 Hometown Health Improvement Sustainability Conference: A Healthier Future For All Arkansans
WHO: The Arkansas Department of Health Hometown Health Improvement Conference Planning Committee: Andi Ridgway, HHI Branch Chief and Principal Investigator, Sherry Johnson, HHI Section Chief, Taniesha Richardson, CPPW Program Director, Emily Harris, Arkansas Assessment Iniative Program Manager, Cheryl Ledoux, Epidemiologist, Dr. Michelle Smith, Director, Office of Minority Health and Health Disparities; Dr. Jennifer Dillaha, Strategic Initiatives Special Advisor; Melissa Turner, CLPH Health Program Specialist; Joy Carrington, Office of Minority Health and Health Disparities Agency Program Coordinator.
WHAT: 4th Annual Hometown Health Improvement Sustainability Conference
WHEN: Tuesday, February 28, Pre-conference workshop begins at 9 a.m. and the conference begins at 11:30 a.m.; Wednesday, February 29, at 8:30 a.m.
WHERE: Wyndham Riverfront Hotel, 2 Riverfront Pl, North Little Rock
WHY: 1) To assist communities to develop, implement and monitor a community health improvement plan using Healthy People 2020 goals and objectives that are based on community priorities
2) To engage multiple sectors to take actions to strengthen policies and improve practices that are driven by evidence
3) To highlight community successes in a variety in venues
WHO: The Arkansas Department of Health Hometown Health Improvement Conference Planning Committee: Andi Ridgway, HHI Branch Chief and Principal Investigator, Sherry Johnson, HHI Section Chief, Taniesha Richardson, CPPW Program Director, Emily Harris, Arkansas Assessment Iniative Program Manager, Cheryl Ledoux, Epidemiologist, Dr. Michelle Smith, Director, Office of Minority Health and Health Disparities; Dr. Jennifer Dillaha, Strategic Initiatives Special Advisor; Melissa Turner, CLPH Health Program Specialist; Joy Carrington, Office of Minority Health and Health Disparities Agency Program Coordinator.
WHAT: 4th Annual Hometown Health Improvement Sustainability Conference
WHEN: Tuesday, February 28, Pre-conference workshop begins at 9 a.m. and the conference begins at 11:30 a.m.; Wednesday, February 29, at 8:30 a.m.
WHERE: Wyndham Riverfront Hotel, 2 Riverfront Pl, North Little Rock
WHY: 1) To assist communities to develop, implement and monitor a community health improvement plan using Healthy People 2020 goals and objectives that are based on community priorities
2) To engage multiple sectors to take actions to strengthen policies and improve practices that are driven by evidence
3) To highlight community successes in a variety in venues
New variation on telephone collection scam related to delinquent payday loans
According to Garland County Sheriff Larry Sanders, the IC3 continues to receive complaints from victims of payday loan telephone collection scams. As previously reported in the IC3 Alert posted December 1, 2010, the typical payday loan scam involves a caller who claims the victim is delinquent on a payday loan and must make payment to avoid legal consequences. Callers pose as representatives of the FBI, Federal Legislative Department, various law firms, or other legitimate-sounding agencies, and claim to be collecting debts for companies such as United Cash Advance, U.S. Cash Advance, U.S. Cash Net, or other Internet check-cashing services. The fraudsters relentlessly call the victim's home, cell phone, and place of employment in attempts to obtain payment. The callers refuse to provide information regarding the alleged payday loan, provide any documentation, and become abusive when questioned.
The IC3 has recently observed a variation of this scam in which the caller tells the victim there are outstanding warrants for their arrest for non-payment and hacking into a named business with the intent of obtaining customer information. During the perpetration of this crime, the caller demands payment via debit/credit card; in other cases, the caller further instructs victims to obtain a prepaid card to cover the payment.
The high-pressure collection tactics used by the fraudsters have also evolved. In one recent complaint, a person posing as a process server actually made a personal appearance at the victim's place of employment. In another instance a fake process server came to victim's home. In both cases, after claiming to be serving the victim with a court summons, the alleged process server indicated the victim could avoid going to court if the victim provided a debit card number for repayment of the loan.
If you are contacted by someone who is trying to collect a debt that you do not owe, you should:
Contact your local law enforcement agencies if you feel you are in immediate danger;
Contact your bank(s) and credit card companies;
Contact the three major credit bureaus and request an alert be put on your file;
If you have received a legitimate loan and want to verify that you do not have any outstanding obligation, contact the loan company directly; file a complaint at www.IC3.gov
The IC3 has recently observed a variation of this scam in which the caller tells the victim there are outstanding warrants for their arrest for non-payment and hacking into a named business with the intent of obtaining customer information. During the perpetration of this crime, the caller demands payment via debit/credit card; in other cases, the caller further instructs victims to obtain a prepaid card to cover the payment.
The high-pressure collection tactics used by the fraudsters have also evolved. In one recent complaint, a person posing as a process server actually made a personal appearance at the victim's place of employment. In another instance a fake process server came to victim's home. In both cases, after claiming to be serving the victim with a court summons, the alleged process server indicated the victim could avoid going to court if the victim provided a debit card number for repayment of the loan.
If you are contacted by someone who is trying to collect a debt that you do not owe, you should:
Contact your local law enforcement agencies if you feel you are in immediate danger;
Contact your bank(s) and credit card companies;
Contact the three major credit bureaus and request an alert be put on your file;
If you have received a legitimate loan and want to verify that you do not have any outstanding obligation, contact the loan company directly; file a complaint at www.IC3.gov
Statement by Senator Mark Pryor on U.S. Army Sergeant Jerry Reed
Senator Mark Pryor made the following statement on the death of U.S. Army Sergeant Jerry D. Reed II of Russellville, Arkansas. Sergeant Reed served with A Company, 2nd Battalion, 28th Infantry Regiment, 172nd Separate Infantry Brigade in Grafenwoehr, Germany.
Today I join all Arkansans in mourning the loss of U.S. Army Sergeant Jerry D. Reed II who passed away in Paktika Province, Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Those who knew Sergeant Reed best described him as a proud military member, who knew from a young age that he wanted to serve his country. He served our nation with courage and honor, and we will never forget his selfless service. My prayers are with Sergeant Reed’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.
Today I join all Arkansans in mourning the loss of U.S. Army Sergeant Jerry D. Reed II who passed away in Paktika Province, Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Those who knew Sergeant Reed best described him as a proud military member, who knew from a young age that he wanted to serve his country. He served our nation with courage and honor, and we will never forget his selfless service. My prayers are with Sergeant Reed’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.
Senator Pryor in Village yesterday
Yesterday U.S. Senator Mark Pryor was in Hot Springs Village to present Lieutenent Colonel Malcolm McDonald with the Bronze Star for his heroism and bravery in the Korean War.
Today, March 24 Pryor is still in Arkansas and is scheduled for the following events.
At 9:30 a.m., Pryor will join local elected officials and other community members in Dallas County for a discussion about issues important to the local community. The meeting will take place at Dallas County Courthouse, 206 West Main Street in Fordyce.
At 11:30 a.m., Pryor will attend a fish fry with the employees at Lion Oil to celebrate 1 million accident free hours. After the fish fry, Pryor will tour the Lion Oil facility, located at 1000 Mchenry Street in El Dorado.
At 2 p.m., Pryor will speak at the investiture ceremony of Judge Susan Hickey. Hickey was confirmed by the Senate on October 13, 2011 to serve as U.S. District Judge for the Western District of Arkansas. The investiture will take place at the U.S. District Courthouse, 101 North Jackson in El Dorado.
Today, March 24 Pryor is still in Arkansas and is scheduled for the following events.
At 9:30 a.m., Pryor will join local elected officials and other community members in Dallas County for a discussion about issues important to the local community. The meeting will take place at Dallas County Courthouse, 206 West Main Street in Fordyce.
At 11:30 a.m., Pryor will attend a fish fry with the employees at Lion Oil to celebrate 1 million accident free hours. After the fish fry, Pryor will tour the Lion Oil facility, located at 1000 Mchenry Street in El Dorado.
At 2 p.m., Pryor will speak at the investiture ceremony of Judge Susan Hickey. Hickey was confirmed by the Senate on October 13, 2011 to serve as U.S. District Judge for the Western District of Arkansas. The investiture will take place at the U.S. District Courthouse, 101 North Jackson in El Dorado.
More rabies cases in Boone County
According to the Arkansas Department of Health (ADH), a third skunk has been confirmed rabid this week in Boone County. Three skunks and one bull have been confirmed with rabies in Boone County so far this year. Statewide, ADH has recorded 10 rabid skunks and one bull in the same period.
Susan Weinstein, DVM, Arkansas Public Health veterinarian, said, “We are concerned about the dogs, cats and livestock that go unvaccinated year after year. In this case, the exposed dogs will have to be quarantined for six months to be certain they do not develop the disease.”
Of the 11 dogs exposed already this year, only one has been vaccinated against rabies. Last year 90 dogs were exposed to rabies, and nearly three-fourths of them had not been vaccinated. Of the 18 cats exposed last year, none were current on their vaccinations.
“When we find a skunk with rabies in a local area, there are usually more rabid skunks in the wild that will never be discovered,” Weinstein said. “That puts the local animal population at risk, especially dogs, cats and livestock."
“We do a much better job of protecting indoor pets than we do the yard dogs and barn cats,” Weinstein said. “But those outside pets are the ones at more risk of encountering a rabid animal.” Vaccinating the outside animals helps create a barrier between rabies in wildlife and people. Dr. Weinstein urged all animal owners to make sure their pets and livestock have been protected by proper vaccination by a licensed veterinarian. It is state law that all dogs and cats be vaccinated against rabies by a licensed veterinarian.
Rabies is a virus that attacks the brain and spinal cord and is a fatal disease. It is most often seen in animals such as skunks, bats and foxes. Cats, dogs, ferrets and livestock can also develop rabies, especially if they are not vaccinated. In 2011, Arkansas had 60 rabies positive animals, including 53 skunks, six bats and one cat. Each year the Arkansas Public Health Laboratory tests 850 to 1,000 animals for rabies and averages 35 to 40 positive cases. The rabies virus lives in the saliva (spit) and nervous tissues of infected animals and is spread when they bite or scratch. The virus also may be spread if saliva from an infected animal touches broken skin, open wounds or the lining of the mouth, eyes or nose.
If an apparently healthy domesticated dog or cat bites a person, it must be captured, confined and observed daily for 10 days following the bite. If the animal remains healthy during this period of time, it did not transmit rabies at the time of the bite. Since there are no known time intervals for the length of infectivity in other animals, the brain tissue of all wild animals must be tested for rabies if human exposure has occurred.
What can you do to protect yourselves against rabies?
• Be sure your dogs, cats and ferrets are up-to-date on their rabies vaccinations
• Do not feed, touch or adopt wild animals
• Keep family pets indoors at night
• Bat-proof your home or summer camp in the fall or winter (The majority of human rabies cases are caused by bat bites.)
• Encourage children to immediately tell an adult if any animal bites them
• Teach children to avoid wildlife, strays and all other animals they do not know well
Report all animal bites or contact with wild animals to the local health unit. Do not let any animal escape that has possibly exposed someone to rabies. Depending on the species, an animal can be observed or tested for rabies in order to avoid the need for rabies treatment.
For more information, call your county health unit or Dr. Weinstein at 501-280-4136.
Susan Weinstein, DVM, Arkansas Public Health veterinarian, said, “We are concerned about the dogs, cats and livestock that go unvaccinated year after year. In this case, the exposed dogs will have to be quarantined for six months to be certain they do not develop the disease.”
Of the 11 dogs exposed already this year, only one has been vaccinated against rabies. Last year 90 dogs were exposed to rabies, and nearly three-fourths of them had not been vaccinated. Of the 18 cats exposed last year, none were current on their vaccinations.
“When we find a skunk with rabies in a local area, there are usually more rabid skunks in the wild that will never be discovered,” Weinstein said. “That puts the local animal population at risk, especially dogs, cats and livestock."
“We do a much better job of protecting indoor pets than we do the yard dogs and barn cats,” Weinstein said. “But those outside pets are the ones at more risk of encountering a rabid animal.” Vaccinating the outside animals helps create a barrier between rabies in wildlife and people. Dr. Weinstein urged all animal owners to make sure their pets and livestock have been protected by proper vaccination by a licensed veterinarian. It is state law that all dogs and cats be vaccinated against rabies by a licensed veterinarian.
Rabies is a virus that attacks the brain and spinal cord and is a fatal disease. It is most often seen in animals such as skunks, bats and foxes. Cats, dogs, ferrets and livestock can also develop rabies, especially if they are not vaccinated. In 2011, Arkansas had 60 rabies positive animals, including 53 skunks, six bats and one cat. Each year the Arkansas Public Health Laboratory tests 850 to 1,000 animals for rabies and averages 35 to 40 positive cases. The rabies virus lives in the saliva (spit) and nervous tissues of infected animals and is spread when they bite or scratch. The virus also may be spread if saliva from an infected animal touches broken skin, open wounds or the lining of the mouth, eyes or nose.
If an apparently healthy domesticated dog or cat bites a person, it must be captured, confined and observed daily for 10 days following the bite. If the animal remains healthy during this period of time, it did not transmit rabies at the time of the bite. Since there are no known time intervals for the length of infectivity in other animals, the brain tissue of all wild animals must be tested for rabies if human exposure has occurred.
What can you do to protect yourselves against rabies?
• Be sure your dogs, cats and ferrets are up-to-date on their rabies vaccinations
• Do not feed, touch or adopt wild animals
• Keep family pets indoors at night
• Bat-proof your home or summer camp in the fall or winter (The majority of human rabies cases are caused by bat bites.)
• Encourage children to immediately tell an adult if any animal bites them
• Teach children to avoid wildlife, strays and all other animals they do not know well
Report all animal bites or contact with wild animals to the local health unit. Do not let any animal escape that has possibly exposed someone to rabies. Depending on the species, an animal can be observed or tested for rabies in order to avoid the need for rabies treatment.
For more information, call your county health unit or Dr. Weinstein at 501-280-4136.
Locomotion at Wildwood today only
Wildwood Park for the Arts and Deltic Timber Corporation Present a Kennedy Center Theatre for Young Audiences On Tour Performance LOCOMOTION! today only.
Two performances will take place on February 24, 2012, in Wildwood’s 625-seat Lucy Lockett Cabe Festival Theatre, 20919 Denny Road, in west Little Rock. A 10 a.m. student matinee sponsored by Deltic Timber Corporation will be held for schools in the central Arkansas community; tickets are free, but reservations are required.
The evening performance is open to the public; curtain is at 7 p.m. Tickets are $10 per person. Purchase your tickets online or at the door.
The Kennedy Center’s Theater for Young Audiences On Tour presents Locomotion, a moving story of an eleven year-old African American boy named Lonnie, an orphan who has seen a lot of sadness in his young life. With a teacher’s encouragement Lonnie discovers a passion for writing poetry. Through this artistic outlet the protagonist finally finds a way to express his feelings about his family, the fire that took his parents away, his little sister and the hardships of his world. He moves from tragedy to hope, from silence to expression and from losing one family to gaining a new one.
Award-winning novelist Jacqueline Woodson, whose accolades include a Coretta Scott King Award and a Margaret A. Edwards Award, adapted her book , a Newbery Honor Award and National Book Award Finalist, into Locomotion. This poignant, inspiring and transcending story is perfect for families with middle school-aged children and older.
Two performances will take place on February 24, 2012, in Wildwood’s 625-seat Lucy Lockett Cabe Festival Theatre, 20919 Denny Road, in west Little Rock. A 10 a.m. student matinee sponsored by Deltic Timber Corporation will be held for schools in the central Arkansas community; tickets are free, but reservations are required.
The evening performance is open to the public; curtain is at 7 p.m. Tickets are $10 per person. Purchase your tickets online or at the door.
The Kennedy Center’s Theater for Young Audiences On Tour presents Locomotion, a moving story of an eleven year-old African American boy named Lonnie, an orphan who has seen a lot of sadness in his young life. With a teacher’s encouragement Lonnie discovers a passion for writing poetry. Through this artistic outlet the protagonist finally finds a way to express his feelings about his family, the fire that took his parents away, his little sister and the hardships of his world. He moves from tragedy to hope, from silence to expression and from losing one family to gaining a new one.
Award-winning novelist Jacqueline Woodson, whose accolades include a Coretta Scott King Award and a Margaret A. Edwards Award, adapted her book , a Newbery Honor Award and National Book Award Finalist, into Locomotion. This poignant, inspiring and transcending story is perfect for families with middle school-aged children and older.
Thursday, February 23, 2012
Hot Springs mail processing operations moving to Little Rock
As a result of studies begun five months ago, the Postal Service has made the decision to move all mail processing operations from the Hot Springs Customer Service Mail Processing Center to the Little Rock Processing and Distribution Center. Once the transfer is completed, the mail processing operation of Hot Springs Customer Service Mail Processing Center will cease.
There will be no change to the Business Mail Entry Unit at the Hot Springs Customer Service Mail Processing Center at this time.
The Postal Service has experienced a 25 percent decline in First-Class Mail volume since 2006, and receives no tax dollars for its operations, relying instead on the sale of postage, and postal products and services.
“The decision to consolidate mail processing facilities recognizes the urgent need to reduce the size of the national mail processing network to eliminate costly underutilized infrastructure,” said Chief Operating Officer Megan Brennan. “Consolidating operations is necessary if the Postal Service is to remain viable to provide mail service to the nation.”
Specific dates have not been set for the transition. Until a specific date has been announced, residential and business mailers will continue to be served through the current facilities.
In December 2011, the Postal Service agreed to impose a moratorium on closing or consolidating post offices and mail processing facilities prior to May 15 to give Congress and the Administration the opportunity to enact an alternative plan.
This delay was designed to allow Congress sufficient time to enact comprehensive postal legislation. In the meantime, the Postal Service continued all necessary steps required for the review of these facilities, including public notifications, public input meetings and consideration of public comments.
Implementation of this consolidation is contingent upon the outcome of pending rulemaking for a proposal to revise existing service standards. This announcement is provided in advance so that appropriate planning and notification can be made in accordance with existing employee agreements.
A list of mail processing studies and their status is available at usps.com/ourfuturenetwork. Specific information about individual studies, including public meeting summaries and summary briefs, is posted on the website, usps.com/areamailprocessing, as it becomes available.
A list of processing facilities studied, FAQs, mail processing b-roll, and additional information can be found at usps.com/ourfuturenetwork.
A self-supporting government enterprise, the U.S. Postal Service is the only delivery service that reaches every address in the nation, 151 million residences, businesses and Post Office Boxes. The Postal Service receives no tax dollars for operating expenses, and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations. With nearly 32,000 retail locations and the most frequently visited website in the federal government, usps.com, the Postal Service has annual revenue of more than $65 billion and delivers nearly 40 percent of the world’s mail. If it were a private sector company, the U.S. Postal Service would rank 35th in the 2011 Fortune 500. In 2011, the U.S. Postal Service was ranked number one in overall service performance, out of the top 20 wealthiest nations in the world, Oxford Strategic Consulting. Black Enterprise and Hispanic Business magazines ranked the Postal Service as a leader in workforce diversity. The Postal Service has been named the Most Trusted Government Agency for six years and the sixth Most Trusted Business in the nation by the Ponemon Institute.
There will be no change to the Business Mail Entry Unit at the Hot Springs Customer Service Mail Processing Center at this time.
The Postal Service has experienced a 25 percent decline in First-Class Mail volume since 2006, and receives no tax dollars for its operations, relying instead on the sale of postage, and postal products and services.
“The decision to consolidate mail processing facilities recognizes the urgent need to reduce the size of the national mail processing network to eliminate costly underutilized infrastructure,” said Chief Operating Officer Megan Brennan. “Consolidating operations is necessary if the Postal Service is to remain viable to provide mail service to the nation.”
Specific dates have not been set for the transition. Until a specific date has been announced, residential and business mailers will continue to be served through the current facilities.
In December 2011, the Postal Service agreed to impose a moratorium on closing or consolidating post offices and mail processing facilities prior to May 15 to give Congress and the Administration the opportunity to enact an alternative plan.
This delay was designed to allow Congress sufficient time to enact comprehensive postal legislation. In the meantime, the Postal Service continued all necessary steps required for the review of these facilities, including public notifications, public input meetings and consideration of public comments.
Implementation of this consolidation is contingent upon the outcome of pending rulemaking for a proposal to revise existing service standards. This announcement is provided in advance so that appropriate planning and notification can be made in accordance with existing employee agreements.
A list of mail processing studies and their status is available at usps.com/ourfuturenetwork. Specific information about individual studies, including public meeting summaries and summary briefs, is posted on the website, usps.com/areamailprocessing, as it becomes available.
A list of processing facilities studied, FAQs, mail processing b-roll, and additional information can be found at usps.com/ourfuturenetwork.
A self-supporting government enterprise, the U.S. Postal Service is the only delivery service that reaches every address in the nation, 151 million residences, businesses and Post Office Boxes. The Postal Service receives no tax dollars for operating expenses, and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations. With nearly 32,000 retail locations and the most frequently visited website in the federal government, usps.com, the Postal Service has annual revenue of more than $65 billion and delivers nearly 40 percent of the world’s mail. If it were a private sector company, the U.S. Postal Service would rank 35th in the 2011 Fortune 500. In 2011, the U.S. Postal Service was ranked number one in overall service performance, out of the top 20 wealthiest nations in the world, Oxford Strategic Consulting. Black Enterprise and Hispanic Business magazines ranked the Postal Service as a leader in workforce diversity. The Postal Service has been named the Most Trusted Government Agency for six years and the sixth Most Trusted Business in the nation by the Ponemon Institute.
NPCC fundraiser for music adventure
Music produces a kind of pleasure which human nature cannot do without. ~Confucius
At National Park Community College, where more than 70 percent of our students are at or below poverty level, the NPCC Singers and the Soundwaves perform more than 20 concerts each year. Area venues invite them back year after year, lifting the community’s collective spirit and, in turn, the spirits of the singers themselves.
So many requests are made that Choral Director Denise Edds must turn many down. This year, however, one has arrived that the Singers have joyfully accepted:
CARNEGIE HALL
On May 5, the Singers will participate in the National Two-Year College Choral Festival at Carnegie Hall in New York City. They are the only choir from the South invited. In fact, Manhattan Concert Productions’ Artistic Director Craig Arnold – who has worked with the NPCC Singers in the past – is providing nearly $25,000 to provide round-trip airfare for each participant.
An additional $12,000 in deposits have already been made by the students. To raise the rest, we need your help. Your contributions will help us provide a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for these talented students, most of whom have never traveled outside Arkansas. Now, they have the opportunity to sing on the world’s most renowned stage.
Thank you for the opportunity to request your support as a sponsor. The fundraiser, held through the NPCC Foundation, will feature excerpts from West Side Story and Phantom of the Opera, as well as an exquisite dinner.
The fundraiser will begin at 6 p.m. on Thursday, April 19, at the Regency, owned by the Garganos of Belle Arti and Porterhouse.
National Park Community College Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)(3) charitable organization. With nearly 4,000 credit students this semester, in addition to noncredit courses and concurrent enrollment classes serving each one of the county’s seven high schools, NPCC serves a vital role in our community. The Tax ID for your tax-deductible contribution is 71-0559526, and we humbly and gratefully thank you for your support.
Sincerely,
Lisa Coleman Carey
Director of Development
At National Park Community College, where more than 70 percent of our students are at or below poverty level, the NPCC Singers and the Soundwaves perform more than 20 concerts each year. Area venues invite them back year after year, lifting the community’s collective spirit and, in turn, the spirits of the singers themselves.
So many requests are made that Choral Director Denise Edds must turn many down. This year, however, one has arrived that the Singers have joyfully accepted:
CARNEGIE HALL
On May 5, the Singers will participate in the National Two-Year College Choral Festival at Carnegie Hall in New York City. They are the only choir from the South invited. In fact, Manhattan Concert Productions’ Artistic Director Craig Arnold – who has worked with the NPCC Singers in the past – is providing nearly $25,000 to provide round-trip airfare for each participant.
An additional $12,000 in deposits have already been made by the students. To raise the rest, we need your help. Your contributions will help us provide a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for these talented students, most of whom have never traveled outside Arkansas. Now, they have the opportunity to sing on the world’s most renowned stage.
Thank you for the opportunity to request your support as a sponsor. The fundraiser, held through the NPCC Foundation, will feature excerpts from West Side Story and Phantom of the Opera, as well as an exquisite dinner.
The fundraiser will begin at 6 p.m. on Thursday, April 19, at the Regency, owned by the Garganos of Belle Arti and Porterhouse.
National Park Community College Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)(3) charitable organization. With nearly 4,000 credit students this semester, in addition to noncredit courses and concurrent enrollment classes serving each one of the county’s seven high schools, NPCC serves a vital role in our community. The Tax ID for your tax-deductible contribution is 71-0559526, and we humbly and gratefully thank you for your support.
Sincerely,
Lisa Coleman Carey
Director of Development
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