PRYOR SPREADS THE WORD ABOUT FEMA DEBT FORGIVENESS PROGRAM - U.S. Senator Mark Pryor on Wednesday unveiled a
county-by-county breakdown of 700 Arkansas households that may be eligible for debt forgiveness. The program is a result of a
new law, championed by Pryor, meant to help individuals who mistakenly received disaster assistance from FEMA years ago and are
now being told to repay the money. FEMA this week is mailing 90,000 letters to individuals nationwide to inform them about a
new program where they can have their debt waived by FEMA in cases where disaster assistance was distributed to them in error.
These individuals must respond to FEMA within 60 days to request a waiver and certify that they meet the criteria, including need,
household income, and appropriate use of funds. Last year, Pryor successfully included a provision in a federal spending bill to
create the waiver option. “FEMA’s mission is to bring relief to families in times of great need, not to create more problems for
them,” Pryor said. “I was proud to help right this wrong for disaster victims, and I’m pleased FEMA is now working swiftly to
implement the law. We need to alleviate this unfair financial hardship so families can focus on rebuilding their lives.” Pryor
encourages Arkansans to visit his website at pryor.senate.gov. Individuals can find information about steps to take, as well as an
interactive map with information about the number of households affected in each county and the average amount each household
owes. Nearly 700 households in Arkansas may be eligible for a waiver. Here is a county-by-county breakdown with the number of
households affected and the average recoupment amount: Howard- 3: $2,000, Hempstead- 4: $2,000, Pike- 1: $2,000, Sevier-1:
$2,000, Polk- 5: $2,400.
DIERKS RESEARCHING MORE OPTIONS FOR AMBULANCE SERVICE - The Dierks City Council, during a meeting this week,
continued discussions about trying to get an ambulance service for the area. Mayor Terry Mounts says he wanted to get a feel from
the community on two possible options that the city might try if an ambulance service could be found. Emergency Medical
Transport was considering providing service to northern sections of Howard County and then declined the opportunity earlier this
month. Currently no other services are being actively pursued. A representative from Diamond Bank was at the city meeting and
said that they would be willing to provide a place for the ambulance service at the old gas station next to the bank. Diamond Bank
would handle any renovations to the building, including things like a kitchen and living quarters, and then would be willing to lease
it to the city. Mounts said two options were being considered if a service was found. The city of Dierks is not interested in starting
up their own ambulance service. The first option would involve the Dierks Industrial Development Commission. Mayor Mounts
said that they would be willing to take on any expenses for at least a year and see if enough funds would be available to continue
the operation. The other option would be to add an additional fee to resident's water bills...already a $2 fire fee is charged to the
residents of Dierks. That would generate about $2000 per month. A public meeting could be held in the future to discuss more
options and Mounts said that it is his hope and several others that some type of ambulance service can be found.
INFANT DEATH UNDER INVESTIGATION - Local authorities are investigating the death of a two month old infant. Nashville
Police Chief Dale Pierce said officers and emergency medical personnel responded around 5:20 Tuesday morning to an apartment
at 1216 Mine Street and found the infant not breathing. CPR was administered on scene and the child was transported to Howard
Memorial Hospital, where the infant was pronounced dead. Chief Pierce said the investigation is being conducted by the Nashville
Police Department and Howard County Sheriff's Department. The body has been sent to the state crime lab for an autopsy and
official cause of death ruling.
BEEKEEPING HIVE-BUILDING CLASS THIS WEEKEND - Southwest Arkansas Beekeepers Extension Homemakers Club is offering a
free hive-building workshop this weekend. The workshop is open to anyone who would like to attend and get hands on experience
in building bee hives and other related beekeeping equipment such as feeders. Although there is no fee for the course, individuals
are asked to preregister. For more information or to register, call the Howard County Cooperative Extension Office at 870-845-
7517. The Cooperative Extension Service is part of the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture and offers its programs to all
eligible persons regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, gender, age, disability, marital or veteran status or any other
legally protected status and is an Affirmative Action /Equal Opportunity Employer.
ELBERTA ARTS CENTER TO HOST WRITERS WORKSHOP - The Elberta Arts Center in Nashville will be holding registration next
week for a writer's workshop to be held in March. The class will be taught by Penny Richards and will include topics such as journal
writing, poetry writing and how to sell your writing over the internet. Cost for the class is ten dollars. The workshop will be held
on March 15th and 16th from 6 until 8 p.m. and on March 17th from 10 until 2. All sessions will be held at the center, located at
109 South Main Street. If you'd like to sign up, call 870-451-9966 to find out more information.
HARRELSON ANNOUNCES BID FOR RE-ELECTION - Steve Harrelson of Texarkana announced Wednesday that he will seek re-
election to the Arkansas Senate for District 11, which is made up of Miller, Little River, and Lafayette counties in addition to parts of
Sevier and Hempstead counties. Harrelson says his campaign has always been about bringing more jobs to southwest Arkansas.
He has served on the Joint Budget Committee and has been a part of balancing the state budget every year. Harrelson has served
in the Senate since 2010. Prior to that, he served three terms in the House, where he chaired the Judiciary committee and served
as House Majority Leader.
VOTERS APPROVE PIKE COUNTY HOSPITAL TAX ABOLISHMENT - Voters in Pike County gave approval to removing the county's
3/8 cent sales tax during a special election on Tuesday. Four hundred and seventy four voters were for the abolishment of the tax
with only 28 against it. The tax was originally created in 2007 to support the Pike County Hospital. County Judge Don Baker says
now that the facility is closed, the county doesn't have a use for the tax- which would create a large surplus. The hospital closed in
November of 2009 and the company that purchased the hospital from the county after that, New Directions Health Systems, is now
saying the sale was invalid. The hospital tax will officially be removed July 1st.
SOUTH PIKE COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT HEARS CONSTRUCTION UPDATE - The South Pike County School District heard an
update on construction of the classroom addition to Murfreesboro High School during a Monday meeting. Superintendent Roger
Featherston said things were going well and that the block work was almost done. The sidewalks will be constructed soon along
with the installation of doors and windows. Also the heating and cooling units are set. The project should be completed in May.
In other business, Jay O'Neal was recognized as an Arkansas School Board Association Outstanding Board Member. The
superintendent was given the authority to represent the board in the possible purchase of property which borders the Murfreesboro
school. Also, Kathleen Cole was rehired as district high school principal for next year and Tanya Wilcher was rehired as district
elementary principal for next year.
7A SOUTH DISTRICT BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT - The 7A South District Tournament is underway this week in Saratoga. In
Tuesday night junior girls action, Trinity beat Taylor 14-7. Elizabeth Gillette led Trinity with six points. Blair McMahon had three to
lead Taylor. (Possibly the first contest in the 30 year history of the M.H. Peebles Auditorium where neither team scored in the first
quarter. The first point was at the 3:36 mark in the second quarter, with Trinity leading 3-2 at halftime.) Bradley won the other
junior girls contest over Saratoga 46-20. Jamesha Webb had 16 points and Mahogony Jones 15 to lead Bradley. Aiyanna Crawford
and Rakiya Trotter each had seven for Saratoga. In junior boys play, Emerson defeated Taylor 54-16. Tavion Revels had 25 points
and Hunter McNeil 11 for Emerson, while Logan Vadrine and Nicholas Stanford each had six for Taylor. Bradley was a 36-28
overtime winner over Trinity in the other junior boys game. John Briscoe had 17 for Bradley. Trinity was led by Austin Cree with
10. There will be no games Wednesday. There will be one senior boys game Thursday, at 5:30 with Taylor playing Saratoga,
followed by the junior high finals of Bradley and Trinity girls and Bradley and Emerson boys.
DON'T RUSH BUDGET BILL, ARK. GOP HOUSE LEADER SAYS - The top Republican in the Arkansas House says he wants the
Legislature to wait before moving forward on the state's budget bill until there are more details about all proposals. House Minority
Leader John Burris said Tuesday he'd prefer the House wait before voting on a resolution that would allow the proposed Revenue
Stabilization Act to be introduced. The House Rules Committee advanced a resolution Tuesday that would allow the introduction of
the measure, which sets spending priorities based on expected revenues. Burris said Republicans in the majority-Democrat House
have questions about Gov. Mike Beebe's $4.7 billion budget for the coming year. Burris and others Republicans have said that
they're working on their own version of the Revenue Stabilization Act.
ARK. PANEL OKs CONSIDERING TAX BREAK REPEAL - A proposal to repeal a tax break for truckers that takes effect later this year
has cleared the first hurdle toward being considered in the fiscal session. The House Rules Committee advanced the resolution
Tuesday to allow the repeal to be considered during the session. Since it's not a budget bill, the proposed repeal requires a two-
thirds vote in both the House and Senate before it can be introduced. The tax break takes effect in July and was part of a highway
plan approved last year that also called for placing a 5-cent diesel tax hike on the ballot. House Speaker Robert Moore proposed the
repeal after the state's trucking lobby withdrew its support for the tax hike. Voters instead in November extended a $575 million
highway bond program.
NASHVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT OFFERING OUT-OF-TOWN MEMBERSHIPS - Presently the cost for a fire call outside the city limits
of Nashville is $750. The Nashville Fire Department offers a subscription at the rate of $40 per year. Subscribers will not have to
pay the $750 in the event of a call to their property, and may get a better rate on their insurance. Only property in the Nashville
Fire Department's 911 calling district can be accepted (for a map click here). If your property is within the highlighted area on the
map, the Nashville Fire Department will be dispatched when you dial 911. The subscriptions cover one year and will be due by the
end of March each year. If you have questions, call the Nashville Fire Department office at 845-1515 between the hours of 7 and 3
Monday through Friday.
FOUR ARRESTED IN HEMPSTEAD COUNTY FOR PUBLIC INTOXICATION - The Hempstead County Sheriff's Department has
arrested four individuals on Public Intoxication charges. Sheriff James Singleton says deputies were dispatched to Avery's Cemetery
in McCaskill concerning an injury. Upon arrival they found 22 year old Keith Fox of Gurdon who had injured his hand by hitting a
tree. While speaking to Fox, deputies noticed the smell of intoxicants. Fox stated that he and his other three friends had been
drinking. Two empty whiskey bottles were recovered from the area. Fox was transported to a hospital for medical treatment and
was given a citation for Public Intoxication. He will face an additional charge of Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor.
Twenty two year old Rebecca Fielding of Gurdon was placed under arrest and is facing the same charges. Twenty year old Brandie
Smillie of Gurdon and eighteen year old David Smithpeters of Prescott were also placed under arrest and charged with Public
Intoxication. All three are currently being held in the Hempstead County Jail.
MURFREESBORO RECEIVES GRANT TO IMPROVE CITY MUNICIPAL BUILDING - The city of Murfreesboro has received a $5000
grant to be used for improvements to the city municipal building. Mayor Travis Branch says some of the wood on the building is
rotten and that the roof leaks in several places. One bid to also include siding was presented in the amount of $9000. The council
voted to accept additional bids to hopefully bring that cost down. In other business, Robert Evans was reappointed to a three year
term on the city water commission. The city transferred over $11,000 in funds to the city park account from timber that was
recently cut at the Murfreesboro park. Council members discussed the ongoing camper trailer problem within the city and are
researching options with the help of the state municipal league. Mayor Branch said there are options with or without a zoning
ordinance. Again the council has no problems with a trailer being used as a permanent home, however would like to discourage
camper/recreational trailers or FEMA trailers that are being improperly used as a permanent structure.
STATEMENT BY SENATOR MARK PRYOR ON PROPOSED OBAMA BUDGET - "While I agree with the President that we should
reinvigorate American manufacturing and focus on job creation, this budget proposal is simply a case of misplaced priorities when
it comes to Arkansas. I am concerned that spending on luxury programs, such as high-speed rail and spaceship taxis, take
precedence over basic needs. Arkansas’s needs are much more down to earth. Yet, programs that provide communities with access
to drinking water, navigable waterways and agriculture assistance are being reduced. Moreover, some of the nation’s best and most
cost-effective military units have been targeted for cuts. I will not support a budget that sidelines basic needs, invests in luxuries
and still results in a whopping $700 billion deficit in 2022."
BILL CALLS FOR NO RAISES FOR ELECTED ARKANSAS OFFICIALS - The state elected officials would not receive a pay raise and
13 new judgeships would be created under a bill headed to the House floor for a vote. On Monday, the Joint Budget Committee
advanced the general appropriation bill, which funds the executive, legislative and judicial branches of government. The bill is the
first that the Legislature must pass during its session. The legislation keeps pay flat for the state's constitutional officers, legislators,
prosecutors and judges. It also will pay for 13 new district judgeships that will be created Jan. 1. The House is expected to vote on
the measure Tuesday.
SNOWFALL IN NASHVILLE - The city of Nashville recorded two inches of snow for the 24 hour period ending at 7 a.m. Monday
morning. This set a new record for that time period, the previous record 1.6 inches in 1997. Officers worked five vehicle
accidents related to the weather in Howard County. Only one minor injury resulting from those accidents was reported.
DRUG ARREST MADE IN HOWARD COUNTY - Howard County Sheriff Deputies made a drug arrest this weekend on U.S. Highway
70 west of Dierks. Deputy Travis Turner was on patrol when he noticed a gray Ford truck crossing the center line. He performed a
traffic stop and noticed them trying to hide something. Deputy Steven Wakefield arrived and assisted in searching the vehicle, upon
the driver's consent. The driver, 54 year old Rebekah Ward of Ashdown and the passenger, 29 year old April Ward of Dierks both
exited the vehicle. Deputy Wakefield conducted a pat down on the driver and found a syringe in her right front jacket pocket.
Deputies observed the passenger pushing a small bag down her pants. They seized the bag which contained marijuana and also
found another syringe, methamphetamine and some pills. Both suspects are facing a variety of drug charges and are currently
being held in the Howard County Jail. Bond has not been set at this time.
NASHVILLE HIGH SCHOOL BAND BANQUET - Several awards were handed out during Saturday's Nashville High School Band
Banquet. Band Director Judd Moore and assistant band director Sara Beth Peavy congratulated the students on a great year and for
their hard work. Sectional awards included outstanding guard: Staci Conatser, outstanding percussion: Josh Witherspoon,
outstanding low brass: Matt Ayers, outstanding high brass: Jacob Caballero and outstanding woodwind: Katelyn Wall. Class awards
included outstanding sophomore: Braden Bowman, outstanding freshman: Sydney Dean, outstanding junior: Pace Hill and
outstanding senior: Candace Brown. The most improved player award went to Hunter Guffy and the band member of the year
award went to Hailey Nunley.
POST OFFICES AT OGDEN AND OZAN TO CLOSE - The Postal Regulatory Commission has voted to move forward with closing
the Ogden and Ozan post offices in Southwest Arkansas. Commissioners also say that the Postal Service decision to close the
Saratoga Post Office needs further review. The PRC says while reviewing the appeal it appears the concern over the adequacy of
the number of post office boxes available to new customers at the Columbus Post Office was not considered. Also, the cost
estimates were not considered for moving those PO boxes from Saratoga to Columbus. The PRC is also questioning the money
savings, which might not show immediate results. Now the Postal Service can either perform a second analysis of the closure
decision or keep the office open.
NASHVILLE MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO ASSAULT AND BATTERY CHARGES - A Nashville man has plead guilty to charges of
Aggravated Assault and Second Degree Domestic Battery. Thirty one year old Joshua Factor was arrested back on December 4th
after police responded to a 911 call at his residence. When police arrived they said he appeared to be very intoxicated and was
cursing at his wife, Amber Factor. She stated that he had threatened to kill her with a knife and a gun. Joshua Factor has been
sentenced to four years in the Arkansas Department of Corrections, must pay $1,400 in restitution and a $200 fine. He has also
been ordered to not contact the victim.
VETERAN JOINS GOP RACE FOR 4TH DISTRICT NOMINATION - A lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves has
joined the race for the Republican nomination for an open congressional seat in south Arkansas. John Cowart announced his
candidacy last week in Texarkana. Cowart recently returned home from serving in Afghanistan a week ago. Cowart, a police officer
with the Texarkana Police Department, led a small team of Marines that lived with and trained Afghan police. He says he'll work in
Congress to boost the economy and promote conservative family values. Cowart joins Republicans Tom Cotton, Beth Ann Rankin
and Marcus Richmond in the contest for the GOP nomination. State Sen. Gene Jeffress and D.C. Morrison are seeking the
Democratic nomination after incumbent Mike Ross said he wouldn't be running for re-election.
NASHVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BANQUET - Several awards were presented at last week's annual Nashville Chamber of
Commerce Banquet. Randy White received the 2011 Man of the Year award and Sheila Kreul received the 2011 Woman of the Year
award. Both were very honored to receive the awards. White has been a volunteer for the Christian Health Clinic since it opened
and is also involved in the Operation Christmas Child program. Kreul has served on the Chamber of Commerce for a number of
years and also stays active in the community. In other awards, the Remodeled Business Building award went to Brookshires. Amy
Reese received the community hero award for her work most recently with the local soup kitchen, but also in other projects.
Nashville Elementary Principal Paul Tollett received the Orange and Black award. Also during the awards ceremony, a special
presentation was made to the family of Ronny Woods, the 2011 recipient of the lifetime achievement award. Woods was involved
in a number of local boards including the Howard County Childrens Center, KJEP-TV, Rotary Club, Chamber of Commerce, City
Park and many more. Chamber of Commerce executive director Mike Reese reviewed last years events and introduced the 2012
board of directors, including President Tim Pinkerton.
SPRING INTO QUILITNG QUILT SHOW – will be held on February 18, 2012 in the auditorium at the New Gym building at
Lockesburg Elementary School from 9 AM to 3 PM. Quilts can be displayed registering them on Thursday February 16 from 6 to 8
pm, and on Friday from 4 to 8 PM at the auditorium. Registration fees are $3.00 per quilt or entry item. There will be 8 categories
this year. They are Machine pieced and machine quilted, hand quilted, appliqué, miscellaneous items (i.e.: table runner, wall
hanging, etc.), children’s including babies, retreat, antique – pre 1980, and first quilt. All quilts will be accepted. There will be
vendors setting up and some vendor space is still available. Vendors should call (870) 289-6291 for more information. A favorite
project at the last few quilt shows has been a quilt square contest. The quilt show visitors will vote for their favorite square. The
square that gets the most votes will win and maker of that square will take home all the squares entered. Bring your square at one
of the registration times or before 9 AM Saturday to have it ready to be voted on. A fat quarter raffle bucket will have to be seen to
be believed. Raffle Tickets will be available for $1 each. The Tea Party is back by popular demand. As is the “Stash” pile. Both are
by donation. If you have “stash” that needs to find a new home, you are welcome to add it the stash pile on Saturday. For more
information call Susie at (870) 784-0993 or Donna at (870) 289-6291.
AGFC EXPLORING ANTLER RESTRICTION CHANGES AT GRANDVIEW - The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission's Wildlife
Management Division is exploring antler restriction changes for several wildlife management areas and three deer zones. WMAs on
the list include the Rick Evans Grandview Prairie near Columbus. The antler restriction proposals are directly tied to habitat quality
and harvest objectives. Grandview has been used as a pilot area for the process and Game and Fish says the regulations have
proven to be very successful. The Commission is looking at improving buck-age structures by a combination of main beam length
and inside spread regulations. Dick Baxter, AGFC's deer program coordinator said, "Based on data collected from thousands of
bucks, inside spread and main beam length are much more correlated to buck age than point restrictions." If the proposals are
accepted, biologists will collect data to monitor results and report findings.
WATER-PIPE WARRANTIES LACK PROTECTIONS - The Howard County Sheriff's Office and local water departments have received
several calls from area residents in regards to a company named HomeServe USA. According to Sheriff Butch Morris the company
is trying to sell insurance to cover damage to water service lines that connect a home to a utility's main water pipe. The service has
low monthly premiums, however homeowners are rarely covered for the common types of problems related to the water lines.
Arkansas Attorney General Dustin McDaniel says this type of insurance may already be included as part of your homeowner's
insurance policy. The mailers to Arkansas residents advertise water-line coverage for a $4.99 monthly fee. The policy provides for
up to $3,000 in coverage for two instances per year. That means that, no matter how expensive it is to repair the line – and repairs
could well exceed the coverage limit –consumers will still be left footing the bill for any repair over $3,000. The coverage also has
many exclusions including freezing and thawing. For more information you can visit the attorney general's website at arkansasag.
gov.
ROSS ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR WASHINGTON SUMMER INTERNSHIP PROGRAM - The office of U.S. Congressman Mike Ross of
Prescott is now accepting applications for the 2012 Congressional Summer Internship Program in his Washington, D.C., congressional office. This highly
selective program is designed to give young people an opportunity to learn about the legislative process through firsthand experiences. The 2012
Congressional Summer Internship Program is split into two sessions, offering this unique opportunity to as many students as possible. The first summer
session runs from May 29 – June 29, 2012, and the second summer session runs from July 2 – August 3, 2012. Interns may coordinate academic credit
directly with their college or university. In order to be considered, applicants must be at least 21 years of age, a high school graduate and enrolled in or
currently attending an accredited college or university. All applications must be postmarked by March 15, 2012, to be considered. Applicants from
Arkansas’s Fourth Congressional District, which covers most of southern and western Arkansas, are strongly encouraged to apply. Internships are also
available in Ross’s district offices located in El Dorado, Hot Springs, Pine Bluff and Prescott. Any questions regarding the internship program such as
dates, eligibility, or housing should be directed to Ashton Honey in Ross’s Washington office. Those interested in an application may obtain one from Ross’
s website at ross.house.gov/students; by e-mail at mike.ross@mail.house.gov; by calling 1.800.223.2220; or, by picking up an application in the El
Dorado, Hot Springs, Pine Bluff or Prescott offices. Mailed applications should be addressed to the Office of Congressman Mike Ross, Attn: 2012
Congressional Summer Internship Program, 2436 Rayburn House Office Building, Washington, D.C., 20515.
HOWARD COUNTY DEMOCRATIC COMMITTEE SETS FILING FEES - The Howard County Democratic Central Committee has set a
filing fee of three percent of a years salary for Howard County Democratic candidates. The filing period begins on Thursday,
February 23rd at Noon and ends March 1st at Noon. Democratic candidates and county committee members must file with party
secretary Reba Sharp, who will be located at the Howard County Courthouse Annex on certain days. The schedule includes
February 23rd from Noon to 4:00, also February 24th, 27th, 28th, and 29th from 9 until 2 and on March 1st from 8 until Noon.
Sharp says they are also looking for more individuals to serve on the county democratic central committee. For any questions or to
find out more information call 870-286-2342.
ARKANSAS ACTIVITIES ASSOCIATION SETS SPRING TOURNAMENT SITES - The Arkansas Activities Association Board of
Directors have made their selections for this year's spring regional and state tournament sites. Nashville will be hosting the class 4A
state Softball tournament this year, May 10th through the 12th. Nashville will also host the class 4A state track and field event May
3rd through the 5th. Mineral Springs will host the class 2A state track and field event. The regional softball tournament for 4A
South was awarded to Ashdown. The class 4A South Regional Baseball tournament will be hosted in Star City, while the 2A South
Regional Baseball tournament will be hosted at Gurdon. The 4A State Baseball tournament will be hosted at Berryville (Harrison
Parks) and the 2A tournament will be at White Hall.
FILING FEES SET FOR CANDIDATES IN PIKE COUNTY - The Pike County Democratic committee met recently to set the filing fees
for the upcoming May primary Election. With a unanimous vote, the committee set the filing fees for Democratic candidates at 1.5%
of the current salary for each office. That totals to $649.03 for the office of County Judge and Sheriff/Collector, $581.67 for the
offices of County Clerk, Circuit Clerk, Assessor, and Treasurer, $47.50 for the office of Justice of the Peace, and $69.79 for the
office of County Coroner. The party filing period will begin February 23 at 12:00 noon and run through March 1 through 12:00
noon. The Democratic Central Committee will be accepting the fees and needed paperwork for filing at the Pike County Clerk’s
office. If you have any questions about the filing process you may contact Sandy Campbell, County Clerk, at 870-285-2743. Clerk
Campbell also stated this is the same filing period for Republican and Independent Candidates. For any questions about the
procedure for filing Independent please contact the Clerk. To file Republican contact Billy Plyler, at 870-356-9645. Republican filing
fees are set for $50.00 for each office according to Mr. Plyler. All candidates must file through the February 23 through March 1
filing period to be placed on the ballot.
THREE REPUBLICAN DEBATES FOR FOURTH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT SET - Dates have been set for at least three Republican
debates in the Fourth Congressional District where Republicans hope to retake this seat left open by Democratic Congressman Mike
Ross who is not seeking re-election in 2012. At least three candidates have announced for the office, including Beth Anne Rankin,
Tom Cotton, and Marcus Richmond. All three say they’ll participate in the debates, which will also be live streamed on the internet.
The schedule includes March 27th in Monticello and April 21st in Hot Springs.
911 ADDRESS SIGNS FOR SALE - Howard County 4-H and the Howard County 911 Office have teamed up to sell 911 address
signs. These signs are reflective and clearly mark your address so that emergency personnel may see the numbers both day and
night. The signs are green and measure 11 ¾ inches long and 6 inches tall. The white reflective numbers measure 4 ¼ inches tall.
The signs can be purchased at the Howard County Extension Office located on the 2nd floor of the courthouse. They are $10 each.
When thinking about installing your address sign, remember to locate it on your side of the road in your yard. Also, mount it high
enough to avoid snow in winter and weeds in summer, and make sure it is visible from both directions. Keep branches and bushes
from blocking it. Many people use a metal “T” post or a treated wooden 4 x 4; this way you can position your 911 address sign in
exactly the best location. For more information or if you have any questions, feel free to contact the Howard County Extension
Office at 845-7517. Howard County 4-H is open to all youth between the ages of 5 and 19 without regard to race, color, national
origin, religion, gender, disability, or any other legally protected status.
RELAY FOR LIFE FUNDRAISER - The American Cancer Society Howard County Relay for Life is collecting donations of handcrafted
or ready made items for cancer patients. Event Chair Mike Chambers says The Angel Wings Project is asking for donations of hats,
scarfs, gloves, throws and quilts to keep cancer patients warm during the cold weather season. This is for cancer patients of all
ages. There are several drop off locations in town for the items, including here at the radio station. If you or a loved one is
affected by cancer, you may also stop by and register their name and contact information. To find out more information call Mike
Chambers at 557-7062.
ARKANSAS RED CROSS LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEERS - Arkansas Red Cross State Volunteer Manager Donna Booth-Johnson and
Southwest Arkansas Zone Disaster Manager Jaison Scott expressed the need for volunteers at a recent Nashville Rotary Club
meeting. The organization is interested in forming an area Disaster Response Team...one was just recently formed in Glenwood.
The American Red Cross is a humanitarian organization led by volunteers and provides relief to victims of disaster and help people
prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies. Johnson says the Red Cross only has 3 staff members working this area. To
find out more information call Booth-Johnson at 870-534-7312 or Jaison Scott at 501-623-9321...you can also visit www.
arkansasredcross.org
county-by-county breakdown of 700 Arkansas households that may be eligible for debt forgiveness. The program is a result of a
new law, championed by Pryor, meant to help individuals who mistakenly received disaster assistance from FEMA years ago and are
now being told to repay the money. FEMA this week is mailing 90,000 letters to individuals nationwide to inform them about a
new program where they can have their debt waived by FEMA in cases where disaster assistance was distributed to them in error.
These individuals must respond to FEMA within 60 days to request a waiver and certify that they meet the criteria, including need,
household income, and appropriate use of funds. Last year, Pryor successfully included a provision in a federal spending bill to
create the waiver option. “FEMA’s mission is to bring relief to families in times of great need, not to create more problems for
them,” Pryor said. “I was proud to help right this wrong for disaster victims, and I’m pleased FEMA is now working swiftly to
implement the law. We need to alleviate this unfair financial hardship so families can focus on rebuilding their lives.” Pryor
encourages Arkansans to visit his website at pryor.senate.gov. Individuals can find information about steps to take, as well as an
interactive map with information about the number of households affected in each county and the average amount each household
owes. Nearly 700 households in Arkansas may be eligible for a waiver. Here is a county-by-county breakdown with the number of
households affected and the average recoupment amount: Howard- 3: $2,000, Hempstead- 4: $2,000, Pike- 1: $2,000, Sevier-1:
$2,000, Polk- 5: $2,400.
DIERKS RESEARCHING MORE OPTIONS FOR AMBULANCE SERVICE - The Dierks City Council, during a meeting this week,
continued discussions about trying to get an ambulance service for the area. Mayor Terry Mounts says he wanted to get a feel from
the community on two possible options that the city might try if an ambulance service could be found. Emergency Medical
Transport was considering providing service to northern sections of Howard County and then declined the opportunity earlier this
month. Currently no other services are being actively pursued. A representative from Diamond Bank was at the city meeting and
said that they would be willing to provide a place for the ambulance service at the old gas station next to the bank. Diamond Bank
would handle any renovations to the building, including things like a kitchen and living quarters, and then would be willing to lease
it to the city. Mounts said two options were being considered if a service was found. The city of Dierks is not interested in starting
up their own ambulance service. The first option would involve the Dierks Industrial Development Commission. Mayor Mounts
said that they would be willing to take on any expenses for at least a year and see if enough funds would be available to continue
the operation. The other option would be to add an additional fee to resident's water bills...already a $2 fire fee is charged to the
residents of Dierks. That would generate about $2000 per month. A public meeting could be held in the future to discuss more
options and Mounts said that it is his hope and several others that some type of ambulance service can be found.
INFANT DEATH UNDER INVESTIGATION - Local authorities are investigating the death of a two month old infant. Nashville
Police Chief Dale Pierce said officers and emergency medical personnel responded around 5:20 Tuesday morning to an apartment
at 1216 Mine Street and found the infant not breathing. CPR was administered on scene and the child was transported to Howard
Memorial Hospital, where the infant was pronounced dead. Chief Pierce said the investigation is being conducted by the Nashville
Police Department and Howard County Sheriff's Department. The body has been sent to the state crime lab for an autopsy and
official cause of death ruling.
BEEKEEPING HIVE-BUILDING CLASS THIS WEEKEND - Southwest Arkansas Beekeepers Extension Homemakers Club is offering a
free hive-building workshop this weekend. The workshop is open to anyone who would like to attend and get hands on experience
in building bee hives and other related beekeeping equipment such as feeders. Although there is no fee for the course, individuals
are asked to preregister. For more information or to register, call the Howard County Cooperative Extension Office at 870-845-
7517. The Cooperative Extension Service is part of the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture and offers its programs to all
eligible persons regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, gender, age, disability, marital or veteran status or any other
legally protected status and is an Affirmative Action /Equal Opportunity Employer.
ELBERTA ARTS CENTER TO HOST WRITERS WORKSHOP - The Elberta Arts Center in Nashville will be holding registration next
week for a writer's workshop to be held in March. The class will be taught by Penny Richards and will include topics such as journal
writing, poetry writing and how to sell your writing over the internet. Cost for the class is ten dollars. The workshop will be held
on March 15th and 16th from 6 until 8 p.m. and on March 17th from 10 until 2. All sessions will be held at the center, located at
109 South Main Street. If you'd like to sign up, call 870-451-9966 to find out more information.
HARRELSON ANNOUNCES BID FOR RE-ELECTION - Steve Harrelson of Texarkana announced Wednesday that he will seek re-
election to the Arkansas Senate for District 11, which is made up of Miller, Little River, and Lafayette counties in addition to parts of
Sevier and Hempstead counties. Harrelson says his campaign has always been about bringing more jobs to southwest Arkansas.
He has served on the Joint Budget Committee and has been a part of balancing the state budget every year. Harrelson has served
in the Senate since 2010. Prior to that, he served three terms in the House, where he chaired the Judiciary committee and served
as House Majority Leader.
VOTERS APPROVE PIKE COUNTY HOSPITAL TAX ABOLISHMENT - Voters in Pike County gave approval to removing the county's
3/8 cent sales tax during a special election on Tuesday. Four hundred and seventy four voters were for the abolishment of the tax
with only 28 against it. The tax was originally created in 2007 to support the Pike County Hospital. County Judge Don Baker says
now that the facility is closed, the county doesn't have a use for the tax- which would create a large surplus. The hospital closed in
November of 2009 and the company that purchased the hospital from the county after that, New Directions Health Systems, is now
saying the sale was invalid. The hospital tax will officially be removed July 1st.
SOUTH PIKE COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT HEARS CONSTRUCTION UPDATE - The South Pike County School District heard an
update on construction of the classroom addition to Murfreesboro High School during a Monday meeting. Superintendent Roger
Featherston said things were going well and that the block work was almost done. The sidewalks will be constructed soon along
with the installation of doors and windows. Also the heating and cooling units are set. The project should be completed in May.
In other business, Jay O'Neal was recognized as an Arkansas School Board Association Outstanding Board Member. The
superintendent was given the authority to represent the board in the possible purchase of property which borders the Murfreesboro
school. Also, Kathleen Cole was rehired as district high school principal for next year and Tanya Wilcher was rehired as district
elementary principal for next year.
7A SOUTH DISTRICT BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT - The 7A South District Tournament is underway this week in Saratoga. In
Tuesday night junior girls action, Trinity beat Taylor 14-7. Elizabeth Gillette led Trinity with six points. Blair McMahon had three to
lead Taylor. (Possibly the first contest in the 30 year history of the M.H. Peebles Auditorium where neither team scored in the first
quarter. The first point was at the 3:36 mark in the second quarter, with Trinity leading 3-2 at halftime.) Bradley won the other
junior girls contest over Saratoga 46-20. Jamesha Webb had 16 points and Mahogony Jones 15 to lead Bradley. Aiyanna Crawford
and Rakiya Trotter each had seven for Saratoga. In junior boys play, Emerson defeated Taylor 54-16. Tavion Revels had 25 points
and Hunter McNeil 11 for Emerson, while Logan Vadrine and Nicholas Stanford each had six for Taylor. Bradley was a 36-28
overtime winner over Trinity in the other junior boys game. John Briscoe had 17 for Bradley. Trinity was led by Austin Cree with
10. There will be no games Wednesday. There will be one senior boys game Thursday, at 5:30 with Taylor playing Saratoga,
followed by the junior high finals of Bradley and Trinity girls and Bradley and Emerson boys.
DON'T RUSH BUDGET BILL, ARK. GOP HOUSE LEADER SAYS - The top Republican in the Arkansas House says he wants the
Legislature to wait before moving forward on the state's budget bill until there are more details about all proposals. House Minority
Leader John Burris said Tuesday he'd prefer the House wait before voting on a resolution that would allow the proposed Revenue
Stabilization Act to be introduced. The House Rules Committee advanced a resolution Tuesday that would allow the introduction of
the measure, which sets spending priorities based on expected revenues. Burris said Republicans in the majority-Democrat House
have questions about Gov. Mike Beebe's $4.7 billion budget for the coming year. Burris and others Republicans have said that
they're working on their own version of the Revenue Stabilization Act.
ARK. PANEL OKs CONSIDERING TAX BREAK REPEAL - A proposal to repeal a tax break for truckers that takes effect later this year
has cleared the first hurdle toward being considered in the fiscal session. The House Rules Committee advanced the resolution
Tuesday to allow the repeal to be considered during the session. Since it's not a budget bill, the proposed repeal requires a two-
thirds vote in both the House and Senate before it can be introduced. The tax break takes effect in July and was part of a highway
plan approved last year that also called for placing a 5-cent diesel tax hike on the ballot. House Speaker Robert Moore proposed the
repeal after the state's trucking lobby withdrew its support for the tax hike. Voters instead in November extended a $575 million
highway bond program.
NASHVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT OFFERING OUT-OF-TOWN MEMBERSHIPS - Presently the cost for a fire call outside the city limits
of Nashville is $750. The Nashville Fire Department offers a subscription at the rate of $40 per year. Subscribers will not have to
pay the $750 in the event of a call to their property, and may get a better rate on their insurance. Only property in the Nashville
Fire Department's 911 calling district can be accepted (for a map click here). If your property is within the highlighted area on the
map, the Nashville Fire Department will be dispatched when you dial 911. The subscriptions cover one year and will be due by the
end of March each year. If you have questions, call the Nashville Fire Department office at 845-1515 between the hours of 7 and 3
Monday through Friday.
FOUR ARRESTED IN HEMPSTEAD COUNTY FOR PUBLIC INTOXICATION - The Hempstead County Sheriff's Department has
arrested four individuals on Public Intoxication charges. Sheriff James Singleton says deputies were dispatched to Avery's Cemetery
in McCaskill concerning an injury. Upon arrival they found 22 year old Keith Fox of Gurdon who had injured his hand by hitting a
tree. While speaking to Fox, deputies noticed the smell of intoxicants. Fox stated that he and his other three friends had been
drinking. Two empty whiskey bottles were recovered from the area. Fox was transported to a hospital for medical treatment and
was given a citation for Public Intoxication. He will face an additional charge of Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor.
Twenty two year old Rebecca Fielding of Gurdon was placed under arrest and is facing the same charges. Twenty year old Brandie
Smillie of Gurdon and eighteen year old David Smithpeters of Prescott were also placed under arrest and charged with Public
Intoxication. All three are currently being held in the Hempstead County Jail.
MURFREESBORO RECEIVES GRANT TO IMPROVE CITY MUNICIPAL BUILDING - The city of Murfreesboro has received a $5000
grant to be used for improvements to the city municipal building. Mayor Travis Branch says some of the wood on the building is
rotten and that the roof leaks in several places. One bid to also include siding was presented in the amount of $9000. The council
voted to accept additional bids to hopefully bring that cost down. In other business, Robert Evans was reappointed to a three year
term on the city water commission. The city transferred over $11,000 in funds to the city park account from timber that was
recently cut at the Murfreesboro park. Council members discussed the ongoing camper trailer problem within the city and are
researching options with the help of the state municipal league. Mayor Branch said there are options with or without a zoning
ordinance. Again the council has no problems with a trailer being used as a permanent home, however would like to discourage
camper/recreational trailers or FEMA trailers that are being improperly used as a permanent structure.
STATEMENT BY SENATOR MARK PRYOR ON PROPOSED OBAMA BUDGET - "While I agree with the President that we should
reinvigorate American manufacturing and focus on job creation, this budget proposal is simply a case of misplaced priorities when
it comes to Arkansas. I am concerned that spending on luxury programs, such as high-speed rail and spaceship taxis, take
precedence over basic needs. Arkansas’s needs are much more down to earth. Yet, programs that provide communities with access
to drinking water, navigable waterways and agriculture assistance are being reduced. Moreover, some of the nation’s best and most
cost-effective military units have been targeted for cuts. I will not support a budget that sidelines basic needs, invests in luxuries
and still results in a whopping $700 billion deficit in 2022."
BILL CALLS FOR NO RAISES FOR ELECTED ARKANSAS OFFICIALS - The state elected officials would not receive a pay raise and
13 new judgeships would be created under a bill headed to the House floor for a vote. On Monday, the Joint Budget Committee
advanced the general appropriation bill, which funds the executive, legislative and judicial branches of government. The bill is the
first that the Legislature must pass during its session. The legislation keeps pay flat for the state's constitutional officers, legislators,
prosecutors and judges. It also will pay for 13 new district judgeships that will be created Jan. 1. The House is expected to vote on
the measure Tuesday.
SNOWFALL IN NASHVILLE - The city of Nashville recorded two inches of snow for the 24 hour period ending at 7 a.m. Monday
morning. This set a new record for that time period, the previous record 1.6 inches in 1997. Officers worked five vehicle
accidents related to the weather in Howard County. Only one minor injury resulting from those accidents was reported.
DRUG ARREST MADE IN HOWARD COUNTY - Howard County Sheriff Deputies made a drug arrest this weekend on U.S. Highway
70 west of Dierks. Deputy Travis Turner was on patrol when he noticed a gray Ford truck crossing the center line. He performed a
traffic stop and noticed them trying to hide something. Deputy Steven Wakefield arrived and assisted in searching the vehicle, upon
the driver's consent. The driver, 54 year old Rebekah Ward of Ashdown and the passenger, 29 year old April Ward of Dierks both
exited the vehicle. Deputy Wakefield conducted a pat down on the driver and found a syringe in her right front jacket pocket.
Deputies observed the passenger pushing a small bag down her pants. They seized the bag which contained marijuana and also
found another syringe, methamphetamine and some pills. Both suspects are facing a variety of drug charges and are currently
being held in the Howard County Jail. Bond has not been set at this time.
NASHVILLE HIGH SCHOOL BAND BANQUET - Several awards were handed out during Saturday's Nashville High School Band
Banquet. Band Director Judd Moore and assistant band director Sara Beth Peavy congratulated the students on a great year and for
their hard work. Sectional awards included outstanding guard: Staci Conatser, outstanding percussion: Josh Witherspoon,
outstanding low brass: Matt Ayers, outstanding high brass: Jacob Caballero and outstanding woodwind: Katelyn Wall. Class awards
included outstanding sophomore: Braden Bowman, outstanding freshman: Sydney Dean, outstanding junior: Pace Hill and
outstanding senior: Candace Brown. The most improved player award went to Hunter Guffy and the band member of the year
award went to Hailey Nunley.
POST OFFICES AT OGDEN AND OZAN TO CLOSE - The Postal Regulatory Commission has voted to move forward with closing
the Ogden and Ozan post offices in Southwest Arkansas. Commissioners also say that the Postal Service decision to close the
Saratoga Post Office needs further review. The PRC says while reviewing the appeal it appears the concern over the adequacy of
the number of post office boxes available to new customers at the Columbus Post Office was not considered. Also, the cost
estimates were not considered for moving those PO boxes from Saratoga to Columbus. The PRC is also questioning the money
savings, which might not show immediate results. Now the Postal Service can either perform a second analysis of the closure
decision or keep the office open.
NASHVILLE MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO ASSAULT AND BATTERY CHARGES - A Nashville man has plead guilty to charges of
Aggravated Assault and Second Degree Domestic Battery. Thirty one year old Joshua Factor was arrested back on December 4th
after police responded to a 911 call at his residence. When police arrived they said he appeared to be very intoxicated and was
cursing at his wife, Amber Factor. She stated that he had threatened to kill her with a knife and a gun. Joshua Factor has been
sentenced to four years in the Arkansas Department of Corrections, must pay $1,400 in restitution and a $200 fine. He has also
been ordered to not contact the victim.
VETERAN JOINS GOP RACE FOR 4TH DISTRICT NOMINATION - A lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves has
joined the race for the Republican nomination for an open congressional seat in south Arkansas. John Cowart announced his
candidacy last week in Texarkana. Cowart recently returned home from serving in Afghanistan a week ago. Cowart, a police officer
with the Texarkana Police Department, led a small team of Marines that lived with and trained Afghan police. He says he'll work in
Congress to boost the economy and promote conservative family values. Cowart joins Republicans Tom Cotton, Beth Ann Rankin
and Marcus Richmond in the contest for the GOP nomination. State Sen. Gene Jeffress and D.C. Morrison are seeking the
Democratic nomination after incumbent Mike Ross said he wouldn't be running for re-election.
NASHVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BANQUET - Several awards were presented at last week's annual Nashville Chamber of
Commerce Banquet. Randy White received the 2011 Man of the Year award and Sheila Kreul received the 2011 Woman of the Year
award. Both were very honored to receive the awards. White has been a volunteer for the Christian Health Clinic since it opened
and is also involved in the Operation Christmas Child program. Kreul has served on the Chamber of Commerce for a number of
years and also stays active in the community. In other awards, the Remodeled Business Building award went to Brookshires. Amy
Reese received the community hero award for her work most recently with the local soup kitchen, but also in other projects.
Nashville Elementary Principal Paul Tollett received the Orange and Black award. Also during the awards ceremony, a special
presentation was made to the family of Ronny Woods, the 2011 recipient of the lifetime achievement award. Woods was involved
in a number of local boards including the Howard County Childrens Center, KJEP-TV, Rotary Club, Chamber of Commerce, City
Park and many more. Chamber of Commerce executive director Mike Reese reviewed last years events and introduced the 2012
board of directors, including President Tim Pinkerton.
SPRING INTO QUILITNG QUILT SHOW – will be held on February 18, 2012 in the auditorium at the New Gym building at
Lockesburg Elementary School from 9 AM to 3 PM. Quilts can be displayed registering them on Thursday February 16 from 6 to 8
pm, and on Friday from 4 to 8 PM at the auditorium. Registration fees are $3.00 per quilt or entry item. There will be 8 categories
this year. They are Machine pieced and machine quilted, hand quilted, appliqué, miscellaneous items (i.e.: table runner, wall
hanging, etc.), children’s including babies, retreat, antique – pre 1980, and first quilt. All quilts will be accepted. There will be
vendors setting up and some vendor space is still available. Vendors should call (870) 289-6291 for more information. A favorite
project at the last few quilt shows has been a quilt square contest. The quilt show visitors will vote for their favorite square. The
square that gets the most votes will win and maker of that square will take home all the squares entered. Bring your square at one
of the registration times or before 9 AM Saturday to have it ready to be voted on. A fat quarter raffle bucket will have to be seen to
be believed. Raffle Tickets will be available for $1 each. The Tea Party is back by popular demand. As is the “Stash” pile. Both are
by donation. If you have “stash” that needs to find a new home, you are welcome to add it the stash pile on Saturday. For more
information call Susie at (870) 784-0993 or Donna at (870) 289-6291.
AGFC EXPLORING ANTLER RESTRICTION CHANGES AT GRANDVIEW - The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission's Wildlife
Management Division is exploring antler restriction changes for several wildlife management areas and three deer zones. WMAs on
the list include the Rick Evans Grandview Prairie near Columbus. The antler restriction proposals are directly tied to habitat quality
and harvest objectives. Grandview has been used as a pilot area for the process and Game and Fish says the regulations have
proven to be very successful. The Commission is looking at improving buck-age structures by a combination of main beam length
and inside spread regulations. Dick Baxter, AGFC's deer program coordinator said, "Based on data collected from thousands of
bucks, inside spread and main beam length are much more correlated to buck age than point restrictions." If the proposals are
accepted, biologists will collect data to monitor results and report findings.
WATER-PIPE WARRANTIES LACK PROTECTIONS - The Howard County Sheriff's Office and local water departments have received
several calls from area residents in regards to a company named HomeServe USA. According to Sheriff Butch Morris the company
is trying to sell insurance to cover damage to water service lines that connect a home to a utility's main water pipe. The service has
low monthly premiums, however homeowners are rarely covered for the common types of problems related to the water lines.
Arkansas Attorney General Dustin McDaniel says this type of insurance may already be included as part of your homeowner's
insurance policy. The mailers to Arkansas residents advertise water-line coverage for a $4.99 monthly fee. The policy provides for
up to $3,000 in coverage for two instances per year. That means that, no matter how expensive it is to repair the line – and repairs
could well exceed the coverage limit –consumers will still be left footing the bill for any repair over $3,000. The coverage also has
many exclusions including freezing and thawing. For more information you can visit the attorney general's website at arkansasag.
gov.
ROSS ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR WASHINGTON SUMMER INTERNSHIP PROGRAM - The office of U.S. Congressman Mike Ross of
Prescott is now accepting applications for the 2012 Congressional Summer Internship Program in his Washington, D.C., congressional office. This highly
selective program is designed to give young people an opportunity to learn about the legislative process through firsthand experiences. The 2012
Congressional Summer Internship Program is split into two sessions, offering this unique opportunity to as many students as possible. The first summer
session runs from May 29 – June 29, 2012, and the second summer session runs from July 2 – August 3, 2012. Interns may coordinate academic credit
directly with their college or university. In order to be considered, applicants must be at least 21 years of age, a high school graduate and enrolled in or
currently attending an accredited college or university. All applications must be postmarked by March 15, 2012, to be considered. Applicants from
Arkansas’s Fourth Congressional District, which covers most of southern and western Arkansas, are strongly encouraged to apply. Internships are also
available in Ross’s district offices located in El Dorado, Hot Springs, Pine Bluff and Prescott. Any questions regarding the internship program such as
dates, eligibility, or housing should be directed to Ashton Honey in Ross’s Washington office. Those interested in an application may obtain one from Ross’
s website at ross.house.gov/students; by e-mail at mike.ross@mail.house.gov; by calling 1.800.223.2220; or, by picking up an application in the El
Dorado, Hot Springs, Pine Bluff or Prescott offices. Mailed applications should be addressed to the Office of Congressman Mike Ross, Attn: 2012
Congressional Summer Internship Program, 2436 Rayburn House Office Building, Washington, D.C., 20515.
HOWARD COUNTY DEMOCRATIC COMMITTEE SETS FILING FEES - The Howard County Democratic Central Committee has set a
filing fee of three percent of a years salary for Howard County Democratic candidates. The filing period begins on Thursday,
February 23rd at Noon and ends March 1st at Noon. Democratic candidates and county committee members must file with party
secretary Reba Sharp, who will be located at the Howard County Courthouse Annex on certain days. The schedule includes
February 23rd from Noon to 4:00, also February 24th, 27th, 28th, and 29th from 9 until 2 and on March 1st from 8 until Noon.
Sharp says they are also looking for more individuals to serve on the county democratic central committee. For any questions or to
find out more information call 870-286-2342.
ARKANSAS ACTIVITIES ASSOCIATION SETS SPRING TOURNAMENT SITES - The Arkansas Activities Association Board of
Directors have made their selections for this year's spring regional and state tournament sites. Nashville will be hosting the class 4A
state Softball tournament this year, May 10th through the 12th. Nashville will also host the class 4A state track and field event May
3rd through the 5th. Mineral Springs will host the class 2A state track and field event. The regional softball tournament for 4A
South was awarded to Ashdown. The class 4A South Regional Baseball tournament will be hosted in Star City, while the 2A South
Regional Baseball tournament will be hosted at Gurdon. The 4A State Baseball tournament will be hosted at Berryville (Harrison
Parks) and the 2A tournament will be at White Hall.
FILING FEES SET FOR CANDIDATES IN PIKE COUNTY - The Pike County Democratic committee met recently to set the filing fees
for the upcoming May primary Election. With a unanimous vote, the committee set the filing fees for Democratic candidates at 1.5%
of the current salary for each office. That totals to $649.03 for the office of County Judge and Sheriff/Collector, $581.67 for the
offices of County Clerk, Circuit Clerk, Assessor, and Treasurer, $47.50 for the office of Justice of the Peace, and $69.79 for the
office of County Coroner. The party filing period will begin February 23 at 12:00 noon and run through March 1 through 12:00
noon. The Democratic Central Committee will be accepting the fees and needed paperwork for filing at the Pike County Clerk’s
office. If you have any questions about the filing process you may contact Sandy Campbell, County Clerk, at 870-285-2743. Clerk
Campbell also stated this is the same filing period for Republican and Independent Candidates. For any questions about the
procedure for filing Independent please contact the Clerk. To file Republican contact Billy Plyler, at 870-356-9645. Republican filing
fees are set for $50.00 for each office according to Mr. Plyler. All candidates must file through the February 23 through March 1
filing period to be placed on the ballot.
THREE REPUBLICAN DEBATES FOR FOURTH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT SET - Dates have been set for at least three Republican
debates in the Fourth Congressional District where Republicans hope to retake this seat left open by Democratic Congressman Mike
Ross who is not seeking re-election in 2012. At least three candidates have announced for the office, including Beth Anne Rankin,
Tom Cotton, and Marcus Richmond. All three say they’ll participate in the debates, which will also be live streamed on the internet.
The schedule includes March 27th in Monticello and April 21st in Hot Springs.
911 ADDRESS SIGNS FOR SALE - Howard County 4-H and the Howard County 911 Office have teamed up to sell 911 address
signs. These signs are reflective and clearly mark your address so that emergency personnel may see the numbers both day and
night. The signs are green and measure 11 ¾ inches long and 6 inches tall. The white reflective numbers measure 4 ¼ inches tall.
The signs can be purchased at the Howard County Extension Office located on the 2nd floor of the courthouse. They are $10 each.
When thinking about installing your address sign, remember to locate it on your side of the road in your yard. Also, mount it high
enough to avoid snow in winter and weeds in summer, and make sure it is visible from both directions. Keep branches and bushes
from blocking it. Many people use a metal “T” post or a treated wooden 4 x 4; this way you can position your 911 address sign in
exactly the best location. For more information or if you have any questions, feel free to contact the Howard County Extension
Office at 845-7517. Howard County 4-H is open to all youth between the ages of 5 and 19 without regard to race, color, national
origin, religion, gender, disability, or any other legally protected status.
RELAY FOR LIFE FUNDRAISER - The American Cancer Society Howard County Relay for Life is collecting donations of handcrafted
or ready made items for cancer patients. Event Chair Mike Chambers says The Angel Wings Project is asking for donations of hats,
scarfs, gloves, throws and quilts to keep cancer patients warm during the cold weather season. This is for cancer patients of all
ages. There are several drop off locations in town for the items, including here at the radio station. If you or a loved one is
affected by cancer, you may also stop by and register their name and contact information. To find out more information call Mike
Chambers at 557-7062.
ARKANSAS RED CROSS LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEERS - Arkansas Red Cross State Volunteer Manager Donna Booth-Johnson and
Southwest Arkansas Zone Disaster Manager Jaison Scott expressed the need for volunteers at a recent Nashville Rotary Club
meeting. The organization is interested in forming an area Disaster Response Team...one was just recently formed in Glenwood.
The American Red Cross is a humanitarian organization led by volunteers and provides relief to victims of disaster and help people
prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies. Johnson says the Red Cross only has 3 staff members working this area. To
find out more information call Booth-Johnson at 870-534-7312 or Jaison Scott at 501-623-9321...you can also visit www.
arkansasredcross.org
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