KWXI News for Friday July 30th, 2010

The weather will be extremely hot this weekend in Southwest Arkansas, for Southwest Arkansas News leader, KWXI AM-FM and Dot net, I’m Bob DelGiorno

The national weather service has issued a HEAT ADVISORY for Glenwood and the surrounding area and it will remain in effect through Sunday. Forecasters said that rain chances are decreasing the next few days allowing for hot and humid condition. The heat index values during the afternoon hours through Sunday will range 105 TO 110 DEGREES THROUGH AT LEAST SUNDAY. Extreme heat has already claimed the lives of 4 Arkansans so far this summer and there are some precautions you can take to combat the heat.

DRINK PLENTY OF FLUIDS...STAY IN AN AIR-CONDITIONED
ROOM...STAY OUT OF THE SUN...AND CHECK UP ON RELATIVES AND
NEIGHBORS.

The extreme heat is the topic of our KWXI opinion poll. Do you think the record high temperatures this summer are due to global warming? Log on to our website at KWXI.Net and cast your vote on the opinion poll and we’ll give you the results on Monday.

The Pike County Fair board needs your help in cleaning up the Fairgrounds to get ready for the Pike County Fair which will be September 21st through September 25th. They’re asking for volunteers to come help clean up is tomorrow beginning at 7 a.m. at the Pike County Fair Grounds For more information, call 870-285-5601.

Today in the last day for cheerleading signups at Centerpoint Schools. Fourth, fifth and sixth graders who want to sign up for cheerleading need to sign up today. For more information, call Velvet Counts at 870—223-2516.

The annual Chancellor and Garner Families are planning their reunion for August 14th at the Community Center in Alpine. Organizer Sammie Richardson told KWXI news what will be going on there.  Mr. Richardson said that they’re looking for some more relatives to attend this year’s reunion. For more information on the Chancellor and Garner Families reunion, call Sammie Richardson at 501-844-0524.

KWXI News for Thursday July 29th, 2010

De Queen Mayer Ray McKelvy yesterday said that the De Queen Railroad will switch companies beginning in October and that should stabilize jobs of local railroad employees. According to De Queen’s chief executive, the sale of the De Queen and Eastern Railroad to Patriot Rail Corp is expected to be completed in the fourth quarter.

The Centerpoint School district announced that they’re hosting a substitute teacher workshop on Tuesday August 10th at the Centerpoint High School Library. Training for new subs will be from 9 a.m. till 10 a.m. and those who’ve been through the initial training will need to attend from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Those wishing to be contacted to sub at Centerpoint need to attend the sessions.

Mission Backpack on Aug 7 from 9am-2pm at Community Bible Baptist Church on Slate mill Road. There will be backpacks handed out with supplies! Just stop by the church and tell what grade and school anytime between 9am and 2pm on Aug 7 for more information call 356-4418 or 223-3840

The Pike County Fair board needs your help in cleaning up the Fairgrounds to get ready for the Pike County Fair which will be September 21st through September 25th. This Saturday beginning at 7 a.m. the Pike County Fair Board is having a clean up day and they’re asking that Riding Clubs, Motor Cycle Clubs, Church’s, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, 4-H clubs, Extension Homemakers and anyone else come out and help. Jack Lee, President of the Pike County Fair Board told KWXI news what the volunteers should bring; he said to bring your hammers, weed eaters and energy. For more information, call 870-285-5601.

KWXI News for Wednesday July 28th, 2010


Non profits in Arkansas may lose tax exempt status, for southwest Arkansas’s news leader, KWXI AM-FM and Dot Net, I’m Bob DelGiorno.

According to the internal revenue service, exemptions for 3009 nonprofit organizations are in danger of losing their tax exempt status because they’ve failed to file tax returns in the past three years. The government is giving the organizations until October 15th for file returns in order to comply with the law and retain their tax exemptions.

The Pike County Extension service will honor their secretary Wanda O’Neal who is retiring after a 34 year career with Pike County Extension. Avon Penny has worked with Wanda O’Neal for the past 25 years and she commented on the leaving secretary’s dedication to her position.

Anyone interested in showing Wanda O’Neal their appreciation are invited to attend a special event being held in her honor at the Municipal Building in Murfreesboro this Friday afternoon from two till four.

U.S. Congressman Mike Ross announced yesterday that he will hold 35 town meetings across his Arkansas 4th Congressional district, including the towns of Glenwood, Murfreesboro and Mt. Ida. On Tuesday August 17th. On the 17th of August Congressman Ross will host a meeting at Murfreesboro City Hall at 9 a.m., at Glenwood City Hall at 11 a.m. and at the Montgomery County Court House at 1 p.m. KWXI will broadcast the Glenwood Town Hall meeting with U.S. Congressman Ross live on 670 AM, 98.9 FM and KWXI.Net. A list of all the town hall meetings is posted on our website at www.kwxi.net.

The Pike County Fair board announced Monday that there will be a clean up day at the Pike County Fairgrounds this Saturday starting around 7:00 AM. The Fair Board said that they would like to have anyone or a group to come out and help us get ready for the Fair & Rodeo which will be held September 21-25. The Fair board is asking that the volunteers bring hammers, weed eaters and some energy because they said that they need everyone to help them out. For more information, call 870-285-5601 or 398-4243.

KWXI News for Tuesday July 27th, 2010

U.S. Congressman Mike Ross addressed unemployment benefits at last night telephone town meeting, for southwest Arkansas’s news leader KWXI AM-FM and dot net, I’m Bob DelGiorno U.S. Congressman Mike Ross held another telephone town meeting last night for citizens in his 4th congressional district. Ross, who voted for the unemployment extension last week told the people in his district why extending benefits to unemployed Arkansans was a good idea.
“For nearly three years, we have struggled through one of the toughest economic times in our nation’s history. While the economy is steadily showing signs of recovery and more of our friends and family are headed back to work, there are still too many Arkansans who are looking for jobs and unable to them”, Ross said.

“As the Congressman for Arkansas’s Fourth Congressional District, I remain committed to helping those hardworking Arkansans who lost a job through no fault of their own get back up on their feet. That is why last week, I voted to extend unemployment benefits in an effort to help more than 16,800 struggling families in Arkansas make ends meet”, the U.S. Congressman said.
“The Emergency Unemployment Compensation Program began to phase out at the end of May 2010. This meant individuals who had exhausted their regular unemployment benefits during the last month were not eligible for additional unemployment benefits. Punishing families simply because times are tough is unacceptable and so is playing politics with their livelihoods. That is why I voted for the Unemployment Compensation Extension Act, or H.R. 4213, because this legislation extends emergency unemployment insurance through November, retroactively restoring benefits to those who lost this lifeline in June.” Ross said.

“In addition to being the right thing to do, extending unemployment benefits also helps spur economic growth. In fact, a recent study by the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office found that extending unemployment has an economic return of $1.90 for every dollar spent. These investments put money in the hands of Americans who need it most. These families then put this money back in to our local,” U.S. Congressman Ross said.
“Extending unemployment goes a long way to help struggling families make ends meet. However, we all recognize the most gratifying and enduring solution is to provide families with stable and secure jobs. And, that’s what I’m fighting for in our nation’s capital,” Ross said.

“Last week, the state of Arkansas received good news in terms of job growth. The U.S. Department of Labor said our state unemployment rate has dropped to its lowest level since October 2009. Arkansas’s jobless rate is now two percentage points lower than the national average. However, at 7.5 percent, there are still thousands of men and women who are looking for work and I will not rest until every Arkansan who wants a job, has a job,” Ross said.
“While the economy is showing signs of recovery, we don’t yet know how long these tough times will last. As your voice in our nation’s capital, I will continue pushing for commonsense economic policies that help hardworking Arkansans get back on their feet, help small businesses to grow and help our local economies become stronger than ever before,” U.S. Congressman Ross said.
A fifth generation Arkansan, Congressman Mike Ross of Prescott represents the Fourth Congressional District of Arkansas in the U.S. House of Representatives. He serves on the House Foreign Affairs Committee and on the House Energy & Commerce Committee, including its Health and Energy Subcommittees. Ross is also key leader of the Blue Dog Coalition, a group of fiscally conservative Democratic House members that advocates the principles of fiscal responsibility and government accountability.

The Pike County Fair board announced yesterday that there will be a clean up day at the Pike County Fairgrounds this Saturday starting around 7:00 AM. The Fair Board said that they would like to have anyone or a group (4-H, Riding Clubs, Motorcycle Clubs, Church, Extension Homemakers, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts and etc.) to come out and help us get ready for the Fair & Rodeo which will be held September 21-25. The Fair board is asking that the volunteers bring hammers, weed eaters and some energy because they said that they need everyone to help them out. For more information, call 870-285-5601 or 398-4243.

An Arkansas State Commission is proposing a 10% increase in fees for camping and rates for cabin and lodge rooms in Arkansas state parks. The commission said the additional money is needed to help make up for slumping tax collections and a slow down in the use of state campsites. Members of the state parks, recreation and travel commission gave tentative approval to the hike and they’re planning a final vote on the raise in fees on August 19th when it will also take comments from the public on the proposal.

The U.S. Forrest Service said that individuals will have the opportunity to identify and claim personal property collected and impounded as a result of the June 11th flood at Albert Pike on August 16th. The items will be in the Crawford Building at the Pike County Fairgrounds in Glenwood. The Forrest staff will be available at the fairgrounds from 8 a.m. till 4:30 p.m. August 16th-August 21st, August 26rth-August 28th, September 3rd-September 4th and September 10th-September 11th.

KWXI News Monday July 26th, 2010

The families and first responders affected by the Albert Pike Flood had a special gathering Saturday at Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church in Lodi on Saturday; Over 125 people attended. The gathering honored community volunteers and workers with state and federal agencies who helped recover the 20 drowning victims and rescued 60 others. The June 11th flood sage on the Little Missouri River near Langley was the highest since the U.S. Geological survey began recording water-level stages.

U.S. Representative Mike Ross will hold another telephone town hall meeting tonight at 7 p.m. Ross, who represents Arkansas’s 4th Congressional district said that he’s holding the meetings to build on the town halls he hosted earlier in the spring in each of his 29 county’s. Any resident of the district can connect to the telephone town hall meeting by calling 1-877-229-8493 and entering the pin number, 14573. Instructions will be given to callers if they’d like to ask Congressman Ross a question. We have the phone number and pin number posted on our website at KWXI.Net, click on local news.

Arkansas Legislators announced that the state will receive almost $5.4 Million in U.S. Department of Justice grants for crime victim’s services and compensation. According to U.S. Senator Blanche Lincoln, the money will be used to support local programs like shelters and counseling centers for victims of domestic violence, court appointed special advocates, and other services for victims of child abuse, services for sexual assault victims, families of murder victims and others affected by crime.

Excessive heat in Arkansas is being blamed for four deaths in Arkansas in the past few weeks. The Arkansas Department of Health said that among the fatalities is a 51-year old migrant worker who was flown by helicopter to a little Rock hospital where he died. Seven people died from heat related illnesses in Arkansas last year.

Pike County Cooperative Extension Service’s secretary Wanda O’Neal is retiring after working for the service for over 34 years. Pike County Extension Service is going to honor Ms. O’Neal with an event this Friday from 2 p.m. till 4 p.m. at the Municipal Building in Murfreesboro. Everyone in the county is invited to attend.

This Friday in the last day for cheerleading signups at Centerpoint Schools. Fourth, fifth and sixth graders who want to sign up for cheerleading need to sign up before this Friday’s deadline, there will be now exceptions to the rule due to the ordering of new uniforms. For more information, call Velvet Counts at 870—223-2516.

The Arkansas Department of Higher Education announced students in Arkansas who were named to the Governor’s distinguished Scholars and Governors Scholars. Locally, Kyler Kelton from Delight High School was named to the Governors distinguished scholar list. Shelby Jenkins from Centerpoint High School and Tyler McRae from Murfreesboro High School made it to the Governors Scholars list.

A Monroe Louisiana man drowned in the Lake Ouachita River Saturday. Dive crews pulled the lifeless body of 31-year old Phillip Aguillard from the water around 1 p.m. Saturday where he was fishing and reported missing around 11:30 a.m. at an area south of Point 50 on the lake. Aquillard was last seen alive fishing along the bank earlier in the day.

KWXI News for Saturday July 24, 2010

(Little Rock--) The Arkansas Department of Health (ADH) has had three more heat deaths confirmed by death certificates, bringing this summer’s total to four. The deaths have occurred over the last few weeks of very hot weather, but no other information on the victims can be released due to medical privacy and state vital records protection laws. In a new addition to established news release practices, the Health Department will be issuing any further information on the number of heat-related deaths in the state on Twitter, at http://twitter.com/ADHPIO.

ADH maintains records of death with causes as submitted by local officials, coroners and medical examiners around the state. No records are maintained for emergency room visits that have occurred as a result of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Last year there were seven deaths in Arkansas from heat-related causes.

James Phillips, MD, Infectious Disease Branch Chief, said that it is very important for people to learn the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Sometimes people don’t realize how serious this can be,” Phillips said. “We need to learn to watch out for each other when the temperature and humidity gets high and stays there for several days or more. It is very important to stay well-hydrated, and to get out of the sun to rest regularly when you are working and playing.”

Hot, humid weather can be very dangerous, even if you don’t go outside at all. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, from 1979-2003, excessive heat exposure caused 8,015 deaths in the United States. While the elderly, people with health problems, and very young children are the most vulnerable, heat can affect anyone—even strong, healthy athletes can be stricken.

Several factors affect the body's ability to cool itself during extremely hot weather. When the humidity is high, sweat will not evaporate as quickly, preventing the body from releasing heat quickly. Other conditions related to risk include age, obesity, fever, dehydration, heart
disease, mental illness, poor circulation, sunburn, and prescription drug and alcohol use.

KWXI News for Friday July 23rd, 2010

The deadline to RSVP for the Glenwood High School graduating classes of 1980-1989 reunion is tomorrow. The Glenwood High School 80’s Decade Reunion will be held on August 7th from 6 p.m. till 9 p.m. at the Glenwood Church of Christ Family Life Center. The reunion is not only open to Glenwood High School Graduates from the 80’s but its open to other classes as well. Organizers say that the event will be very light and casual. Representatives from each graduating class are in the process of tiring to locate and invite as many classmates as possible. The Cost of the Reunion is $15 per person and will require RSVP by July 24th. If you are interested in attending the Glenwood Tigers 1980-89 Decade Reunion; call Angie Shields Killingsworth at 501-605-6145.


The special gathering for the victims and families of the Albert Pike Flood will be tomorrow at 4 p.m. at Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church in Lodi, Arkansas. A meal provided and Monetary Donations will be accepted for the Victims Families. Everyone who was involved in helping those who were impacted by the flood is welcome to attend. For more information you can call Penny Putz at 870-828-0394 or Andrea Cowart at 870-828-1961.

President Obama signed into law the Improper Payments Elimination and Recovery Act yesterday. The Bill which was co-sponsored by U.S. Congressman Mike Ross from Arkansas was designed to reduce an estimated $98 billion in improper payments – those that occur when a federal agency pays too much or pays twice for a product or service. U.S. Congressman Ross told KWXI news that the bill makes a lot of sense.
“We’ve got to stop the out-of-control spending in Washington. Arkansas families are watching every dollar they spend – the federal government should do the same,” said Ross. “If you are double billed for your house payment or if you paid for groceries you never received, wouldn’t you ask for your money back? When taxpayer dollars are being spent, Washington should hold itself to the highest possible standard of fiscal responsibility and I was proud to help pass this bill and watch the President sign it into law.”
Specifically, the new law contains such provisions as increasing transparency by lowering the improper payment threshold for agencies, requiring agencies to develop action plans to avoid future waste, recovering overpayments, and holding agencies accountable.
“This is a great example of the type of simple, bipartisan and commonsense legislation that will help restore much-needed fiscal discipline to the federal government,” said Ross. “This is just one of 15 steps of my comprehensive blueprint to balance our budget and reduce the debt. Others are simply talking about the deficit and debt – I’m trying to do something about it.”
Ross, joined by his fellow fiscally conservative Blue Dog Democrats, unveiled a Blueprint for Fiscal Reform earlier this year, which is a 15-step plan to balance the budget within 10 years and work to pay down the national debt. In addition to the Improper Payments Elimination and Recovery Act, Ross and his Blue Dog colleagues have successfully passed the following provisions of the Blueprint:

§ PAYGO: House and Senate passed and President signed into law “pay-as-you-go” rules for the U.S. Congress, requiring the federal government to pay for any spending increases.
§ Fiscal Commission: The President signed an executive order creating the bipartisan fiscal commission to recommend to Congress changes that will balance the long-term spending and revenue scenarios for the nation.
§ Performance-based Budgeting: Passed in the House and Senate a bill that requires annual assessments of federal agencies to determine the effectiveness of programs in meeting established goals and the quality of management. Agencies would be directed to develop improvement plans to address any issues.

For more information about the Blueprint for Fiscal Reform and to read the full plan along with legislative updates, visit ross.house.gov and click on “Mike’s Blueprint for Fiscal Reform.”

“Our underlying structural deficits are the biggest threat to our economic security today,” said Ross. “With this new law and with our Blueprint for Fiscal Reform, I and the rest of my Blue Dog colleagues are putting forth concrete steps that can be taken to put the country back on a path to balanced budgets and long term fiscal sustainability. It is time to change the way Washington operates and we must begin to sincerely work together and develop solutions to these systemic problems.”

A fifth generation Arkansan, Congressman Mike Ross of Prescott represents the Fourth Congressional District of Arkansas in the U.S. House of Representatives. He serves on the House Foreign Affairs Committee and on the House Energy & Commerce Committee, including its Health and Energy Subcommittees. Ross is also key leader of the Blue Dog Coalition, a group of fiscally conservative Democratic House members that advocates the principles of fiscal responsibility and government accountability.

KWXI News for Thursday July 22nd, 2010

The Little Rock police said that a man suspected of robbing a Little Rock Bank died when he jumped into the Arkansas River. According to authorities, 54-year old Robert Earl Ballard was seen in a pickup truck at the robbery of US Bank at Noon yesterday and spotted later. According to the police, they chased the truck; Ballard parked on the Main Street Bridge, got out and jumped into the river. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

A Diamondhead police officer was shot outside a residence yesterday. According to police, 46-year old patrol officer Fred Ensminger was shot in the shoulder while off duty in an unmarked vehicle. According to unconfirmed reports, the officer was driving a dodge truck when he attempted to make a traffic stop of a vehicle driven by a woman in a residential area when a man in the residence came out and allegedly shot officer Ensminger. Officer Ensminger was transported to a hospital by Lifenet was he was treated. The female driver and alleged male shooter were taken to the Sheriffs Department for questioning.

Representatives from Glenwood High School graduating classes of 1980-1989 are organizing a Decade Reunion. The Reunion will be held on August 7th from 6 p.m. till 9 p.m. at the Glenwood Church of Christ Family Life Center. The reunion is not only open to Glenwood High School Graduates from the 80’s but its open to other classes as well. Organizers say that the event will be very light and casual. Representatives from each graduating class are in the process of tiring to locate and invite as many classmates as possible. The Cost of the Reunion is $15 per person and will require RSVP by July 24th. If you are interested in attending the Glenwood Tigers 1980-89 Decade Reunion; call Angie Shields Killingsworth at 501-605-6145.

KWXI News for Wednesday July 21st, 2010

The National Transportation Service Board said yesterday that the likely cause of the fatal private plane crash near Umpire, 48 miles East of Glenwood on June 13th was wing failure. The crash killed 4 DeQueen residents who were headed to Gaston’s Resort airstrip at Lakeview.

A Hot Springs Village man pleaded guilty in a Garland County Court yesterday to writing 24 hot checks. According to court records, 24-year old Brandon Morgan Jones was sentenced was sentenced to 10-years in jail and also ordered to pay $3,994.69 cents in restitution. Jones is already in jail where he’s been serving a 10-year sentence after pleading guilty to residential burglary and forgery from an alleged June 29th break in to the home of a legally blind and deaf neighbor who he allegedly stole checks from.


Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church in Lodi, Arkansas will host a "Special Gathering" on behalf of the Albert Pike flood Victims and Families. This will take place on Saturday, July 24th beginning at 4:00 p.m. Andrea Cowart with Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church explains:

Andrea Cowart

There will be a meal provided. Monetary Donations will be accepted for the Victims Families. Everyone who was involved in helping those who were impacted by the flood are welcome to attend. For more information you can call Penny Putz at 870-828-0394 or Andrea Cowart at 870-828-1961.

The U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics said yesterday that the Arkansas jobless rate in June dropped 2 tenths of a percent from 7.7% to 7.5%; that’s the lowest rate since October. Arkansas’s rate is the 17th lowest in the country, well below the national rate of 9.5%.

KWXI News for Tuesday July 20th, 2010

It appears that the economy is improving in southwest Arkansas and Arkansas’s Economy seems to be better than other areas in the U.S. Congressman Mike Ross told KPYN news yesterday that the governments economic stimulus plan has helped but we still have a ways to go.

The Arkansas Workforce Center in Hot Springs said that the unemployment rate in Southwest Arkansas is around 7.4% and that’s a lot better than the national unemployment rate of 9.5%. Jeanette Karaff, business Service Rep for the Arkansas Workforce center said that they’re plenty of job openings in our area, especially in Glenwood where there getting ready to reseal 9 miles of highway in Pike County.

According to Pike County Judge Don Baker said that the road work being done in Pike County will be done on Rock Creek Road, that’s County Road 30 near Glenwood between Salem and Glenwood; 4.5 miles of the road will be resealed. Another 4.5 miles of road in Pike County will be resealed on Nathan Road, that’s County Road 6 just west of Murfreesboro. Arkansas state Highway and transportation department said the road work should be completed by sometime this fall.

For more information on the jobs available working on the Pike County Roads, and other jobs available in our area, call the Arkansas Work Force Center at 501-525-1631.

Pike County Judge Don Baker said that the road work being done in Pike County will be done on Rock Creek Road, that’s County Road 30 near Glenwood between Salem and Glenwood; 4.5 miles of the road will be resealed. Another 4.5 miles of road in Pike County will be resealed on Nathan Road, that’s County Road 6 just west of Murfreesboro. Arkansas state Highway and transportation department said the road work should be completed by sometime this fall.

The University of Arkansas said that they expect 21,000 students at their Fayetteville campus this fall. UA said that more tan 20,700 students are expected to start classes next month.

KWXI Afternoon news on Monday July 19th, 2010

U.S. Congressman Mike Ross will have a telephone town meeting tonight, for southwest Arkansas’s leader, KWXI AM-FM and Dot Net, I’m Bob DelGiorno.

US Congressman Mike Ross, democrat from Prescott will hold another telephone town meeting tonight and he will address issues regarding the economy, jobs, reducing deficits and the care of our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan and their safe return home. On this mornings swap shop on KWXI, US Congressman Ross told KWXI’s Bob DelGiorno, he believes that the economic stimulus package put in place over a year ago is working.

If you would like to participate in tonights Town Hall meeting with U.S. Congressman Mike Ross at 7 p.m., you can call 1-877-229-8493, and use the pin # 14573. The numbers are posted on our website at www.KWXI.Net, simply click on local news.

The Arkansas Workforce Center in Hot Springs said that there are road work jobs available right now in Glenwood, Jennette Karaff, business Service Rep for the Arkansas Workforce Center has the details.

For more information on the jobs available working on the Pike County Roads, and other jobs available in our area, call the Arkansas Work Force Center at 501-525-1631.

Pike County Judge Don Baker said that the road work being done in Pike County will be done on Rock Creek Road, that’s County Road 30 near Glenwood between Salem and Glenwood; 4.5 miles of the road will be resealed. Another 4.5 miles of road in Pike County will be resealed on Nathan Road, that’s County Road 6 just west of Murfreesboro. Arkansas state Highway and transportation department said the road work should be completed by sometime this fall.

KWXI News for Monday July 19th, 2010

US Congressman Mike Ross's pic to the news. He will guest on KWXI Monday morning at 9:35 a.m.

 

U.S. Congressman Mike Ross, D-Prescott, will host his sixth of eight telephone town hall meetings tonight for residents in Arkansas’s Fourth Congressional District. The telephone town hall will begin at 7:00 p.m. The remaining telephone town halls will be held on: Mon, July 26 and Tues, August 3. Each telephone town hall will last approximately 60 minutes. Ross said these telephone sessions will build on the town halls he has already hosted around his district.

Any resident throughout Arkansas’s Fourth Congressional District can connect into the telephone town hall by dialing the following toll free number and using the included PIN code: Phone: 1-877-229-8493, PIN: 14573. Anyone may listen to the call and specific instructions will be given to callers if they would like to ask Congressman Ross a question. The telephone number is also posted on our website at www.kwxi.net. Congressman Ross will be our guest on Coffee and Comments this morning at 9:35 during the swap shop on KWXI.

The USDA will host commodities distribution in Glenwood tomorrow and Wednesday at the Glenwood Senior Activity Center on Betty Street. Food Items may include green beans, potato slices, spaghetti sauce, orange juice, beef stew, dry pinto beans, milk, macaroni, mushroom soup and cheddar cheese. For more information call Tammy Cogburn at 870-356-4212.

KWXI News for Friday July 16th, 2010

USDA Commodities Distribution will be going on next week in Glenwood. The USDA will conduct Commodities distribution next Tuesday and Wednesday July 20th and 21st from 8:30 a.m till 11 a.m. and Noon till 3 p.m. in Glenwood at the Senior Activity Center on Betty Street. Food Items will include Green Beans, Potato Slices, Spaghetti Sauce, Orange Juice, Beef Stew, Dry Pinto Beans, Milk, Macaroni, Mushroom Soup and Cheddar Cheese. As we hear from Tammy Cogburn at the Glenwood Senior Activity Center, the Cheddar Cheese is a hot commodity.

The food that will be given out to low income families only. Ms. Cogburn said that to see if you qualify, you might want to arrive early. For more information on next weeks Commodities distribution, call Tammy Cogburn at 870-356-4212

Tomorrow night the Glenwood senior activity center will be the venue for a country western dance. The entertainment will be provided by Don Thompson’s Talimena Drive Band. The price of admission includes a snack and they will hold a 50/50 raffle to defray the cost. The proceeds go toward a great cause; the home delivered meals program at the senior center. Everyone is welcome to come, but smoking, alcohol and foul language will not be allowed.

Governor Mike Beebe has over $2.7 Million dollars in his campaign fund. The Arkansas democratic governor Arkansas governor has substantially more than his republican challenger Jim Keet. According to financial records, Keet has a meager $59,000 in his coffers. Yesterday was the deadline for candidates to file fund raising reports with the state.

KWXI News for Thursday July 15th, 2010

Hot Springs Police are still investigating the early Tuesday morning armed robbery of the Home Town Pharmacy on Albert Pike. Two suspects were arrested and two others fled the scene. Both of the arrested suspects are from Hot Springs. The two suspects still at large are described as black males and they could be possible driving a Nissan Pathfinder. Anyone with information on the robbery is encouraged to call the Hot Springs Police at 501-321-6717.

Arkansas Democratic senator Blanche Lincoln has raised more than $1.7 Million dollars since the primary runoff and according to her campaign; she has $1.9 Million in her account as she prepares to run for reelection of her Arkansas seat this fall. Lincoln won her democratic nomination in the June 8th runoff against Lt. Gov. Bill Halter and now she’s facing republican congressman John Boozman in the General Election. Boozman won the GOP nomination by defeating 7 opponents in the May 18th primary.

Senator Lincoln and Arkansas Republican Senator Jon Kyl introduced legislation to reinstate the federal estate tax that expired last year. Lincoln and Kyl of Arizona propose to amend the small business lending legislation under consideration in the senate to permanently set the tax rate on inherited wealth at 35 %.

Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church in Lodi has planed a Special Gathering on behalf of the Albert Pike Flood Victims, it’s slated fro July 24th at 4 p.m. an a meal will be served an donations for the victims will be accepted. Organizer of the event Penny Putz explains.

“Everyone who was involved in helping those impacted by the flood is welcome to attend,” Putz said.

For more information on the special gathering for the Flood Victims of Albert Pike, call Penny Putz at 870-828-0394.

KWXI News for Tuesday July 13, 2010

Suspects are still on the street after a robbery at Phil's Pharmacy in Glenwood as police wait for DNA evidence from the state crime lab. On June 21st, police say three armed men entered Phil's Pharmacy and allegedly stole $20,000 worth of Zantax and hydrocodone. Glenwood Police Chief Randy Reid says they think they know who did it but they have to wait for the DNA evidence to prove what they beleive is true. Crime lab director Kermit Channell says it takes 30 t0 60 days for DNA to be processed. Reid checks a website for the status of the case and says that DNA processing has started for this case and now they just have to wait for the results to come back.

An attorney of Dallas Cowboys running back Felix Jones has issued a cease-and-desist demand against Brian Davis, of Little Rock. Davis has been instructed by Jones' attorney to stop using Jones' name and likeness without his permission. According to Jones, contrary to published materials, Jones will not be a part of a youth football camp that Davis has organized this Saturday and Sunday in Little Rock. Jones' attorneys say Davis also falsely stated that Jones would do an autograph signing at a June 24 Arkansas Travelers baseball game. Jones stated that Davis does not represent him in any formal manner and the statements he made about Jone's participation in these events were made without permission from him or his management. KWXI's Sports Director Derek Diesner has spoken to Davis and was misled when Davis promised Diesner an interview with Jones on more than one occasion. Jones has scheduled a free autograph session at the Traveler's July 21 game from 6:30-7:30 p.m to make it up to his disappointed fans due to Davis's false and unauthorized statements.

Arkadephia police are searching for 27 year old Dominic Lamorris Whitaker who is missing and was last seen on July 4th by his mother at his house around 7 p.m. Whitaker is 6 feet tall and weighs around 239 pounds. Arkadelphia police Investigator Jason Watson says that this is not like Whitaker to be away from his children at home and his family. Anyone with any additional information about his whereabouts should contact the Arkadelphia Police Department at 870-246-4545.

KWXI News for Monday July 12, 2010

A week from now we will have a new Miss Arkansas and Forty-four hopeful young ladies made their debut in Hot Springs on Sunday. The contestants posed for photos and strutted their stuff around the Hot Springs convention center yesterday, all hoping to be the next Miss Arkansas. The preliminary competition which is the interview part of the competition will begin Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. The current Miss Arkansas is Sarah Slocum and by next Saturday the new Miss Arkansas 2010 will be crowned and will be the recipient of a $20,000 scholarship. An autograph signing will take place at the Hot Springs Mall on Saturday from 1-2 p.m. and The crowning of Miss Arkansas 2010 will also be on Saturday at 7:30 p.m. at the Summit Arena.

U.S. Sen. Mark Pryor says he'll "swing for the fences" while pushing for federal funding for a proposed section of interstate highway that would run through western Arkansas. Pryor told the community leaders of Mena on Wednesday that there is a chance that the long-discussed construction of I-49 to be built as part of a highway that would stretch from CAnada all the way to New Orleans will take place. Pryor says funding for I-49 in Arkansas may come in cylces over several years rather than all at once. Pryor says hopes for the highway's construction in the state are improved because of the fact that the project has been in discussion for a long time. Pryor believes that the construction of I-49 is an important connection to the mid-section of the country.

The Glenwood High School classes of 80-89 is having a decade reunion which will be held on Saturday, August 7, at the Glenwood Church of Christ Family Life Center at 6:00pm-9:00pm. This event is open to other class years as well. The cost of the reunion is $15.00 per person and you will need to RSVP by July 24th. If you are interested in attending call 501-605-6145.

The Salem Missionary Baptist Church is having a Vacation Bible School for kids ages 4-12 starting today through Friday from 6:30p.m.-8:30p.m. This years theme is "Danger Island" and is like a mimic of the "Survivor" T.V. show. For more information call 870-398-5561 or 870-342-6215.

KWXI News for Friday July 9, 2010

Gov. Mike Beebe says that a special election will be held Oct. 12 to fill a vacancy in the state House of Representatives from southwest Arkansas. The District 21 house seat, which covers Howars and Sevier Counties, is vacant because former State Representative Steve Cole resigned from the Arkansas House, which took effect on June 30th. Republicans and Democrats have agreed to choose their nominees by party convention to eliminate the need for a special primary run-off. Idependents and write-ins can qualify. The deadline for party conventions to select nominees will be August 6. The winner of the special election will fill the position for a brief period from October until January.

The Garland County Sheriff's Office says at around 11 am on Wednesday a Hot Springs Village man reported that 3 men were allegedly trying to steal a vehicle that was parked behind his residence. When police arrived, one of the suspects said he was paid $125 by a man to take the vehicle to an unknown address. The 3 suspects were allegedly arrested by sheriff's deputies. It has been reported that they are each being charged with ciminal trespass and theft. The alleged suspects were identified as 34 year old, Robert LaVerne Phipps, 43 year old William Lewis Moppin III, and the third suspect was a 15 year old whose name was not released. Phipps and Moppin will appear in Hot Springs District Court on August 10th.

Two people have been arrested and another is wanted in Louisiana for the murder of a woman and a bank robbery in Crossett, AR that took place last Thursday. Police arrested 41 year old Peter Keith Harvey in Opelousas, Louisiana early yesterday afternoon and 30 year old Adrianne Green was also arrested yesterday morning. Both alleged suspects are being charged with kidnapping, aggravated robbery, and first degree murder in connection with the death of Donna Woodbury last week. A third suspect is yet to be positively identified but detectives believe he is somewhere in Louisiana. Adrianne Green will make her first court appearance this morning in Hamburg and Peter Keith Harvey will be extradited from Louisiana back to Ashley County, where the crime took place.

The Glenwood Adult Center is hosting Christmas in July today from 8:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m. and tomorrow at 8:30 a.m- 12:00 p.m. at the Senior Activities Center in Glenwood. There will be lots of household items, Christmas ornament, Christmats decorations, lots of clothing items, and several other miscellaneous items for you to buy. On Saturday from 11:00am-12:00pm you can fill a bag for only $1.00. All of the proceeds go to Glenwood's Senior Adult Center's home delivered meals.

KWXI News for Thursday July 8, 2010

Southwest Arkansas Housing Authorities received $2,053,782 in grants from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to help modernize and improve the management of public housing units. The grants were received from the “Capital Fund” program. The funds were announced by the Arkansas congressional delegation which includes: U.S. Sens. Blanche Lincoln and Mark Pryor, and U.S. Reps. Marion Berry, Vic Snyder and Mike Ross. The housing authorities and funds awarded Pike County is $37,885. Several other Southwest Arkansas areas received funds too, of various amounts, including Howard County and Hope.
Comedian and actor Jerry Van Dyke is looking forward to a reunion with his brother, 5-time Emmy Award winner Dick Van Dyke, who will be in Hot Springs on Saturday. Dick Van Dyke will perform well-known songs from some of his hit films with three musicians who form the a capella quartet The Vantastix at an American Cancer Society fundraiser that will be held at the Hot Springs Convention Center. Jerry Van Dyke is helping to coordinate the event and is looking forward to getting together with his brother. Jerry said he doesn't think Dick has ever visited Hot Springs and is excited to show him around.

Authorities are advising drivers to watch their car tags closely as people are stealing the 2011 decals from license plates. A Horatio woman reported that someone had removed her sticker from her license plate, and although she was unsure of exactly when the sticker had been taken but she said it have to have been within the last week. Authorities say both stickers and entire tags have been stolen from other vehicles as well. Motorists should always keep a close eye on their vehicle to make sure everything is in order before driving.

On Saturday July 17, there will be a Fish Fry Fundraiser Pie and Cake Auction for Bro. Gene Graves who is battling cancer. The Fish Fry will be held at the Community Bible Baptist Church off Slate Mill Road. The food will be served at 5 p.m. and singing will take place at 7 p.m. All donations will go to Bro. Gene Graves family to help with medical expenses.

KWXI News for June 7, 2010

Early Monday morning, Hot Springs police responded to a call of shots fired at Bailey Place Apartments. When they arrived to Bailey Apartments, they allegedly found a man with a gunshot wound. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The victim has been identified as 36 year old Jacquard Clark of Malvern. Detectives do not have a suspect in this case yet, and they continue to interview witnesses and family members. This is the fourth alleged murder in Hot Springs this year. If you have any information on this crime, you're urged to call the Hot Springs Police Deparment at 501-371-6742.

Crews are laying new asphault on sections of Interstate 30 this week.Officials with the Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department say lane closures will be in effect from mile marker 138 - 140 near the I-30 / I-440 interchange. crews will work Tuesday through Thursday nights from 8pm - 6am, weather permitting.

DanceArts Studio Inc. in Hot Springs will host a Girlz Rock! Camp for participants aged 9-12 from 10 am to noon today through Friday. Each day will have a different theme ranging from hip-hop to jazz to pom-pom, all of which will be performed to popular music favorites. The "campers" will learn dance technique, combinations, and routines in each different dance style. Participants will also design their own "Girlz Rock!" t-shirts. For more information call 501-623-3133 or visit their website at www.danceartshotsprings.com

DeQueen Police were busy over the 4th of July weekend. The DeQueen Police Department made 128 contacts over the weekend according to Police Chief Richard McKinley. McKinley said his department wrote over 53 citations, 33 warnings and impounded five different vehicles. The department also had 5 complaints on fireworks being shot after hours.

KWXI News for July 6, 2010

The National Forest Service says several hiking trails in Montgomery County damaged by a deadly flash flood on June 11 have been reopened. Officials of the Ouachita National Forest based in Hot Springs say the Albert Pike Recreation Area Campground where 20 campers were killed by the disastrous floods still remains closed and the forest headquarters said the campground will remain closed until further notice. The Forest Service said workers are still repairing many roads in the area that were damaged by the flooding, and several of these roads have yet to be reopened.

Hot Springs police are investigating after finding the body of a man who was allegedly found shot to death just after 2 a.m. yesterday at Bailey Apartments. Police aren't releasing many details about the investigation or what they know about a suspect but they say they are busy interviewing witnesses. Police have not released the victim's name but they say he is an African American male in his mid-30s. No murder weapon was found at the scene and police say there may be more than one suspect. If you have any additional information call the Hot Springs police at 501-321-6742.

On Saturday, July 10, there will be a Fist Fry at the Cattleman's Livestock Auction Barn. This event is free to all and starts at 6p.m. and ends when all the food is gone. This event is sponsored by the Circle Cross Cowboy Church because they care about this community and the many hardships this area has faced in the last months with the economy, and most recently, the flooding rivers. For more information call 870-828-1230.

The U.S Coast Guard says its investigating to find out what caused a tugboat to sink, while being docked at the Port of Little Rock on the Arkansas River. Coast Guard Operational Specialist Kevin Wingate said the Motor Vessel Stafford sank about 2 p.m. on Saturday while it was tied up alongside another boat. No injuries were reported.

KWXI News for July 2, 2010

A traffic stop that occurred at approximately 10:30PM Wednesday night has resulted in numerous felony and misdemeanor charges for a Glenwood man. According to the Garland County Sheriff’s Department, a sheriff’s deputy stopped a 1998 Chrysler Sebring at Carpenter Dam Road and the Martin Luther King Expressway for running a red light. The driver, identified as, 24 year old, Christopher B. Brown, of Glenwood, reportedly got out of the vehicle and attempted to flee the scene but was apprehended by police in an open field and arrested. In a pat-down, police allegedly found 3 clear bags of a white powdery substance in Brown’s pocket. A black handgun and a glass pipe are other items that were allegedly found during a search of Brown's vehicle. Brown was charged with possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver, possession of a firearm by certain persons, and simultaneous possession of drugs and firearms, all of which are felony charges. Brown was also charged with misdemeanor counts of possession of drug paraphernalia and fleeing. Brown is being held without bail on the felony charges and will appear in Hot Springs District Court on July 20th.

State health experts say the majority of water samples from the Saline River near the Hwy 5 bridge no longer show serious levels of E. Coli bacteria, but they're still urging caution there and across the state during the upcoming holiday weekend. The State Health Department confirms four people got sick from the contamination of the Saline River. The main message that the state health officials are stressing is to know the risks before you go swimming. Other tips on how to stay safe and healthy are to stay away from slow moving water, monitor your kid's water intake and hit the shower after swimming in natural water.

The Diamond Springs Water Park near the Crater of Diamonds State Park near Murfreesboro is throwing a pool party on the evening of July 3rd from 6:30 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. They will have games, music, awards for the most patriotic swimwear and even cake and ice cream. The water park area will be all decorated in red, white, and blue to get everyone in the mood for celebrating our country's day of independence. For those people under 42 inches tall the charge is $3.75, those people over 42 inches tall costs $5.50, and children under 2 years old are free. For more information call Margi Jenks at 870-285-3116.

KWXI News for Thursday July 1, 2010

A search by law enforcement authorities in Ashley County has located the 2003 Nissan Altima believed to have used by two suspects as a get away vehicle following a bank robbery in North Crossett about 9:15 AM today (Friday, July 1, 2010). At the present time the FBI, Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division, and local authorities are processing four crime scenes including a local residence where the vehicle was stolen and a woman was abducted, a murder scene near the bank where the woman was shot prior to the bank robbery, the First National Bank of North Crossett located on Highway 133 and a location north of town where the get away car was located in the past hour. Until next of kin have been notified no further information is being released with regard to the location from where the car was taken or the identity of the victim.

A Hot Springs man is behind bars after deputies answering a burglary-in-progress call allegedly caught him in the act. The Garland County Sheriff's Office was called to a home on Stonehurst Road around 1:30 yesterday morning. when a neighbor reported hearing a back door being kicked in. When deputies arrived and looked in a front window, they reportedly spotted 28 year-old Roger Murray in the living room and saw that the home had been ransacked. As one deputy walked down a hallway, he ran into Murray coming out of a bedroom with a TV. Murray then allegedly threw the TV at the deputy's lower body,slightly injuring him and then ran back into the bedroom where he was arrested. Murray is facing residential burglary and battery charges.

A Hot Springs woman is being held on a $50,000 bond after being arrested early tuesday for her alleged involvement in a May 15th aggravated robbery. 18 year old, Brenda Paige Mann was arrested just after midnight Tuesday morning by the Hot Springs police. Mann was alleged to have been involved in the robbery of a 40 year old Hispanic male along with three African American male suspects. Police reports say that a witness identified Mann because she had once lived with a nearby neighbor. Mann is scheduled to appear in Hot Springs District Court on July 20th.

The Frontporch Stage in Mt. Ida proudly presents the Prairie Grove Band in concert Saturday July 3rd with special guest Steven Johnson. The show will start at 6 pm and the Prairie Grove Band has some special songs prepared just for this show. Bring your friends, family, and neighbors, your lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy a special evening of music in celebration of Independence Day . The Backporch Kitchen and Possum Store will be open during the concert. Come on out and hear one of Arkansas's best songwriters playing some great original patriotic tunes.

The 6th annual Matt Turner Memorial Golf Tournament will be held on Saturday, August 7 at the Glenwood Country Club. This tournament is a 3 person team scramble starting at 8:30 a.m. The entry fee is $225 per team which includes green fees, carts, refreshments, lunch, a t-shirt and a drawing for door prizes. The first 36 teams to enter will be eligible. Prizes will also be awarded for the closest to the pin, longest drive, and each Par 3 will have a hole-in-one prize. All proceeds go towards the Matt Turner Memorial Scholarship Fund. For more information contact Simon Mack at 870-223-1342, Katie Neal at 870-223-1759, or Gayle Castleberry at 870-845-4104.

KWXI News for Wednesday June 30, 2010

The Garland County Sheriff's Department says a 26 year old Bonnerdale man reported an aggravated burglary and kidnapping that allegedly occurred around 6 p.m. on Monday. The victim told police that a known suspect came to his house, kicked open the door to his RV, and forced his way in. The suspect then allegedly grabbed a golf club and hit the victim in the head. Then the suspect forced the victim to help load items from the RV into his parent's vehicle outside and forced the victim to get into the vehicle before fleeing the scene. Police say the suspect left the area heading west but wrecked the car at the intersection of Apple Road and Yukon Pass. The victim jumped out of the car that that point and started running up Yukon Pass while the suspect reportedly fired several shots at him but the victim was never hit. Police said they located spent shotgun shells and several items of property along the roadway. The victim was transported to a local hospital for treatmen for the injury to his head. The incident is still under investigation and the suspect has not yet been located.

Baptist preacher Graig Cowart flew out of Little Rock yesterday evening to meet with congress. Cowart is being recognized by congress on Thursday, when he will stand in front of congress to be congratulated and thanked for all his help during the flash flood that devastated Southwest Arkansas. Cowart's Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church became the unofficial headquarters for anxious family members, rescuers, and media. Cowart became the spokesman for the families, providing their public face during 1 of the worst disasters in Arkansas history. Cowart also reportedly has been to Shreveport, LA to attend several funerals of the flash flood victims.

Harvey's Chapel Baptist Church at 2515 Mountain Pine Road in Hot Springs, will be hosting a special Independence Day program. At 6:00 p.m. on July 4th, former high school history teacher and current Harvey's Chapel Pastor Steve Ellison, will be presenting a PowerPoint slideshow entitled "America's Godly Heritage." Everyone is invited to attend.

Due to the Fourth of July holiday, the monthly singing at the Hilltop Full Gospel Church in Glenwood will be cancelled.

KWXI News for Tuesday June 29, 2010

Garland County Deputies are working on an alleged kidnapping, burglary and rape of a Garland County couple that occurred early Friday morning, June 25th.
According to police, three to four African American men wearing bandanas broke into the couple's house. The suspects then allegedly tied the couple up and put pillowcases over their heads and demanded money and drugs. Authorities say The male victim was then stabbed and the female victim was sexually assaulted. The suspects then reportedly put both victims into the back seat of their vehicle and drove them to a location on Discovery Bay Road where the couple was left and eventually able to escape. The male victim is in stable condition and still in the hospital and the female victim was treated and released. Sgt. Joel Ware says the suspects didn't know the victims but there's a chance the suspects were familiar with them. Police are still investigating this case and ask if you have any information to call the Garland County Sheriff's office.

The Newhope Fire Department will be having an Independence Day celebration July 3rd. They will be serving BBQ chicken or BBQ sandwich meals for $7.00 starting at 5 p.m. The Midnight Hurricanes will be providing the entertainment starting at 7 p.m. and the fireworks will start around 9 p.m. They are also having a pretty baby photo contest. Pictures need to be turned in by 1 p.m. at the fire department. The winners of the Baby contest will be announced during the concert with trophies being awarded to 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place. There will be a live auction, dunking booth, and vendors. They are also selling raffle tickets on a Remington Action 270 to be given away that night. For more information call 870-584-8015 or 870-784-3485.

Harvey's Chapel Baptist Church, 2515 Mountain Pine Road in Hot Springs, will be hosting a special Independence Day program. At 6:00 p.m. on July 4th,former high school history teacher and current Harvey's Chapel Pastor Steve Ellison, will be presenting a PowerPoint slidshows entitled "America's Godly Heritage." Everyone is invited to attend

(LITTLE ROCK) - The Arkansas State Police and local law enforcement agencies will assign additional personnel to saturation patrols and sobriety checkpoints during the Fourth of July holiday period, July 1st - 5th. The effort is part of the Drunk Driving. Over the Limit. Under Arrest campaign designed to educate, identify and apprehend drunk drivers. "Driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs isn't worth the risk," said Colonel Winford E. Phillips, Director of the Arkansas Sate Police and Governor's Highway Safety Representative. "No matter your age, if you've been drinking or may be impaired in any manner, you should find a safe and sober ride to your destination or face the likelihood of being arrested," Colonel Phillips stated.

KWXI News for Monday June 28, 2010

The Clark County Sheriff’s Department issued a “be on the lookout” on Thursday morning for two robbery suspects who allegedly robbed an Amity business. According to a sheriff’s department spokesperson, the two alleged suspects are described as African American males who were reportedly driving a gold Toyota Corolla with stolen tags and were last seen driving toward Hope. Anyone with any information on the two suspects are urged to call the Clark County Sheriff’s Department at (870) 246-2222. Authorites say they are unsure if the robbery in Amity has any connection to the robbery that took place at Phil’s Pharmacy last Monday in Glenwood.

The Arkansas Department of Health says four cases of severe diarrheal illness in Saline County have been linked to swimming in the Saline River near the Highway Five Bridge. Health officials announced Friday that the agency tested water from the area and found it to be unsafe for swimming. Infectious Disease Chief, Dr. James Phillips says warnings have been posted on that stretch of the river. Phillips says the warmer temperatures of summer encourages the growth of bacteria like E. Coli. If you choose to swim in the affected area, stay away from slow moving water and tell your kids not to drink it, Phillips advises. According to Phillips all four teenagers are recovering well and the Arkansas Department of Health will take a follow-up sample of the water in about a week.
The Umpire Fire Department in Umpire, AR is having the Janet Smith Breast Cancer Benefit chicken dinner and live auction on July 10 starting at 5 p.m. Janet Smith was diagnosed with cancer in November 2009 and the adventure will continue for several more months as Janet fights her way from cancer patient to cancer survivor. The proceeds from the Janet Smith Benefit will be used to help pay for medical expenses and lost wages from missed work. For more information call Helen at 870-286-3027 or Verna at 870-583-7322.
Student athletes in Fayetteville are teaming up with Numana, Inc. and the people of Northwest Arkansas for "Razorback Relief: Operation Haiti." Volunteers began in two hour shifts on Friday at 7pm packaging meals for victims of the recent earthquake that devastated Haiti. A similar effort is also taking place in Los Angeles. In just 24 hours, volunteers there were able to pack one-million meals, Kansas City then beat that record shortly after. Athletic Director Jeff Long says he is confident that Fayetteville can package a record breaking 2 million meals. All meals will be shipped directly to Haiti for those residents still in need under the watchful eye of the U.S. military.

LITTLE ROCK – State employees will not get pay raises when the new fiscal year begins on July 1. State employee pay raises traditionally have taken effect at the beginning of the state fiscal year, which runs from July 1 to June 30. After July 1, the state will be in Fiscal Year 2011. Budget officials hope that if the economy improves and state revenue increases, a raise may be possible about half way through the fiscal year.
In Fiscal Year 2010 the state had to trim its budget by $206 million. Also, the state tapped into a rainy day fund for about $25 million to avoid cuts in services.The salary freeze will apply to faculty and staff at state-supported colleges and universities. Institutions of higher education have some autonomy under Amendment 33 to the state Constitution, and several institutions had already approved pay increases for faculty and staff earlier this year. However, when the state's top budget official sent out a memo freezing salaries at current levels, the institutions decided to forego their planned raises.

KWXI News for Friday June 25, 2010

According to The Arkansas Department of Health, extremely hot weather was the cause of a death that took place yesterday. No information on the victim can be released at this time due to patient confidentiality issues. According to the National Weather Service, temperatures across the state have been well above average for the past few days, ranging from teh mid-90's to low 100's. Officials say there were 7 heat related deaths in Arkansas last year.Infectious Disease Branch Chief James Phillips, MD, said it is very important to stay well-hydrated, stay out of the sun and rest regularly in such hot weather. Drink lots of water, stay in the air condition, monitor how you feel, and check up on relatives and neighbors are other ways to beat the heat and avoid heat related illnesses.

The Pike County Quorum Court Meeting that was originally scheduled for this Monday, the 21st, has been rescheduled for Monday June 28 at 7pmat the Pike County Courthouse. The original meeting was postponed due to the death of Pike County Judge Don Baker's wife, Sue Baker who sadly passed away on Sunday.

The 3rd annual Glenwood Freedom Festival starts today and continues through Sunday. There are several events scheduled throughout the weekend including free concerts tonight and tomorrow night an Ugly Truck Contest, and several fun things for kids, like a dunk tank, moon bounce, and games. Be sure to tune into to KWXI AM FM and DOT net tomorrow from 11am-2pm where KWXI's own Derek Diesner will be broadcasting live from the Ugly Truck Contest.

The Umpire Fire Department in Umpire, AR is holding a Janet Smith Breast Cancer Benefit on July 10th starting at 5 p.m. Janet Smith was diagnosed with breast cancer in November of 2009. The proceeds from this benefit will be used to help pay for medical expenses and lost wages from missed work. There will be a chicken dinner and a live auction. For more information call Helen at 870-286-3027 or Verna at 870-583-7322.

KWXI News for Thursday June 24, 2010

Police are continuing their investigation into an alleged armed robbery that took place Monday afternoon at Phil’s Pharmacy in Glenwood. According to Glenwood Police Chief Randy Reid, 3 armed African American’s wearing hooded sweatshirts entered the drug store and stole medication and controlled substances, no money was taken and no one was injured. Reid says after gathering evidence at the alleged crime scene, they do have some leads but they need to be able to prove what they believe with the evidence they have. If anyone has any information about this alleged robbery please contact the Glenwood Police Department at 870-356-3333

Plastics packaging company Rexam, in Hot Springs, has announced they are adding 150 new jobs for residents in the surrounding areas. Rexam has closed six plants in the last year and a half but Hot Springs is benefiting from this now. Rexam turns out plastic tubs for ointments, cosmetics, and hair-care products, and makes tops for plastic soda bottles and other containers. Plant manager Terry Burcham says they are looking for operators, mechanics, electricians, and more.

The Newhope Fire Department will be having an Independence Day celebration on July 3rd. There will be BBQ chicken or BBQ sandwich meals for $7.00 starting at 5 p.m. The Midnight Hurricanes will be providing the entertainment starting at 7 p.m. Fireworks will start around 9 p.m. or after dark. There will also be a pretty baby contest. Pictures need to be turned in by 1 p.m. at the fire department. The winners will be announced during the concert and will be awarded trophies for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place. There will be a live auction, dunking booth, and vendors. For more information call 870-584-8015 or 870-784-3485

If you're looking for a cool way to celebrate the 4th, come to the Diamond Springs Water Park at the Crater of Diamonds State Park near Murfreesboro. They are throwing a pool party on July 3rd from 6:30 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and the public is invited to attend. There will be music, games, and awards for the most patriotic swimwear, and even cake and ice cream. The water park will be all decorated in red, white, and blue to get you in the mood for celebrating our country's day of independence. The usual water park fees will pay for all of the fun. For those people under 42 inches tall the charge is $3.75, those over 42 inches tall costs $5.50 and children under 2 years old get in for free.

KWXI News for Wednesday June 23, 2010

Entergy said that 13,700 customers in Southwest Arkansas were without power yesterday afternoon between 3 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. The outage was caused by a problem at a substation and a transmission system. Residential and industrial customers in Glenwood, Amity, Norman, Kirby, Mt Ida and Caddo Gap were all in the effected areas. According to Mark Hunt, customer management official with Entergy; the reason the problem occurred was that Entergy is doing improvements to their infrastructure that will continue for 2-3 more months. Because of the work being done, Hunt said that they were forced to allow rolling outages every couple of hours in sections of southwest Arkansas every 30 or 40 minutes. Hunt also said that they restored power to all customers last night by 6:30 p.m.


Police are continuing their investigation into an alleged armed robbery which occurred Monday afternoon at Phil’s Pharmacy in Glenwood. According to Glenwood Police Chief Randy Reid, 3 armed robbers wearing hooded sweat shirts entered the drug store and stole medication and controlled substances; no money was taken. The alleged robbers are described as African American’s and they fled the scene in green Honda. Police also said the alleged robbers burned the Honda and switched vehicles. Police said that the vehicle they switched to is believed to be a white Chrysler. Police said the alleged robbers also left behind some evidence that may help in identifying the suspects wanted in the robbery. Anyone with information on the location of the alleged robbers is encouraged to call the Glenwood Police department at 870-356-3333.

The US Forrest Service said that is interested in using the U.S. Geological Survey’s unique flood warning system for Albert Pike Recreation Area. The state of the art system is currently being used for downtown Hot Springs. and Albert Pike Recreation area. The flood warning information system includes four gauges that monitor stream flow, stage and rainfall amounts and the gauges transmit the information hourly via satellite to a publicly accessible website. The flood warnings are also tied to the city’s code-Red system, a high speed emergency telephone notification service that can notify an entire area in the event of a disaster.

KWXI News for Tuesday June 22, 2010

At 2:45 p.m. yesterday, 3 armed African American’s walked into Phil’s Pharmacy in Glenwood. According to police chief Randy Reid, The three armed robbers were wearing hooded sweatshirts to cover their identity and they then proceeded to steal medication and controlled substances, no money was taken from the scene and no one was injured. Reid said they were only in the store for 1 minute and they left the scene in a green Honda. After leaving Phil’s Pharmacy the robbers were then said to have traveled into the Hwy 70 loop where they burned the green Honda and switched vehicles. Reid believes that the robbers then left in a white Chrysler. As of now, they have found some evidence at Phil’s Pharmacy and at the scene where the green Honda was burnt. At this time there are some people of interest but no one has been charged with the crime. If you have any additional information please contact the Glenwood Police Department at 870-356-3333.

Sue Baker, the wife of Pike County Judge Don Baker passed away on Sunday after losing a lengthily battle with cancer. Sue was a member of Bethel Missionary Baptist Church in Glenwood, where she worked on countless church projects. She was also an active civic leader in Glenwood and Pike County. Sue served as Pike County Fair Board President, Miss Pike County Committee Chair, and as a project leader of the Goals for Glenwood committee. Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life service which will be held at Bethel Missionary Baptist Church in Glenwood, tomorrow at 2:00 PM. Burial will follow in Bethel Cemetery. The visitation will be at Davis-Smith Funeral Home in Glenwood today from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM. Memorials may be made to the Bethel Missionary Baptist Church, PO Box 315, Glenwood, Arkansas 71943.

Barr Memorial Presbyterian Church in Norman is still serving those in need after the devastating flood. The church has been blessed with donations of gift certifications, clothing, shoes (many new ones), toiletry items, household goods, water,linens, towels, food, and compasionate people to talk to. Call 870-223-2725 or 870-223-2995 for an appointment.

The Caddo Hills Alumni Reunion for former students of Caddo Gap, Caddo Hills, Caddo Valley Academy and Norman Schools will be held on Saturday, June 26, 2010, at the Caddo Hills Cafetorium. Ron's Barbeque will cater dinner at 6:00 p.m. The building will be open at 3:00 p.m. with a Business meeting at 5:00 p.m. Reservations may be made with a call to Betty Jester Oliver at 870-356-5090 or Shirley Eduy at 870-334-2701.

The Saddle Ridge Ranch vacation bible school at the First Baptist Royal Church in Royal, AR is set to take place on July 5th through July 9th at 6:00 p.m until 9:00 p.m. Pre-registration for this event will start on Monday June 28th through Sunday July 4th. Those interested can sign up in the church office which is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 am til 4:00 p.m. For more information on this event call the church at 870-767-5462.

KWXI News for Monday June 21, 2010

The city of Glenwood is mourning the death of Sue Baker, for South west Arkansas’s news leader, KWXI AM-FM and Dot Net, I’m Jennifer Tossey.

Sue Baker, the wife of Pike County Judge Don Baker passed away yesterday after a lengthily battle with cancer. According to a member of their family, Sue Baker passed away in her home with her family by her side. She leaves behind her husband of 49 years, Judge Don Baker, two daughters, Beth and Karen and a son Paul, all from Glenwood.

Funeral service for Sue Baker will be at Bethel Church in Glenwood Wednesday at 2 p.m. and visitation will be in the Chapel at Davis Smith Funeral Home in Glenwood tomorrow (Tuesday) from 6 p.m.-8 p.m.

Pike County Clerk Sue Campbell announced this morning that the Pike County Quorum Court meeting scheduled today at 7 p.m. has bee postponed due to the death of Judge Baker’s wife.

On Saturday June 19, KWXI announced the championship game of the Centerpoint Classic Babe Ruth baseball tournament in Amity between the Tri-County Chaos and the Southwest Arkansas team. Both teams had been playing in games all day long. The championship game started at 5:30 p.m. but was cut short after a player passed out in the third inning. A southwest Arkansas player was in his team’s dugout when he collapsed during the bottom of the third inning due to what was believed to be heat exhaustion. Two ambulances arrived on the scene shortly after the player collapsed. The game was then called due to this incident.

The Ouachita National Forest has announced that the Albert Pike Campground, the site of the deadly flash flood, will remain closed until further notice. Forest Supervisor Norman Wagoner says they still have a lot of cleanup and a lot of work left to do in the area. Due to security and public safety reasons, in addition to the Albert Pike Campground several other roads and trails have been closed. The other closed areas are as follows:
• Viles Branch trail: The southern portion of Viles Branch loop trail will be closed east of the junction with the Athens Big Fork Trail all the way to the trailhead on Road 2106 near Highway 369. The northern portion of the loop trail will be closed on the 106 road at the road closure barrier east of the private land.
• Little Missouri Trail: This trail will be closed from the second staircase at the Little Missouri trailhead south to the Viles Branch trail and to the Musgrove Hole.
• Bluff Mountain Trail (also known as Albert Pike trail): This short trail at Albert Pike campground will be closed.
• 106 Road: Closed near the county line to its junction with AR 369.
• 512 Road: Closed east of the junction of 512 Road and 912 Road
• 99 Road: Closed at the junction of 99 Road and County Road 73
• County Road 73: Closed at junction of County Road 73 and County Road 43 west to the Albert Pike Campground.
• Winding Stairs Trailhead: Closed.
• The 3rd annual freedom festival will take place this weekend in Glenwood. The Freedom Festival is for the Senior Activity’s Center Home Delivered Meals. There are several events scheduled throughout the weekend, including free concerts on Friday and Saturday night, a Veteran’s Parade on Friday at 9 a.m, an ugly truck contest and several others.Tune into KWXI on Saturday where we will be broadcasting live from the Ugly Truck contest at the Freedom Festival.

KWXI News for Friday June 18, 2010


A local Church is helping flood victims...

Barr Memorial Presbyterian Church’s Gretta Lane Food Bank and Clothing Barn in Norman has collected food, clothing, shoes and small household items for victims of last Fridays flood that devastated Southern Montgomery County and Northern Pike County. Mary Beth Lysobey (Lis-O-Bay) with Gretta Lane Food Bank told KWXI News the story of one Norman man they helped.

Families needing assistance from the Gretta Lane Food Bank and Clothing Barn can pick up forms to state their needs at the Norman City Hall and Gretta Lane Food Bank from 9 a.m. till 4 p.m. For more information, call Mary Beth Lysobey at 870-223-2725.

It’s a big weekend for the Centerpoint High School Class of 2010. They’re celebrating their 10th reunion this weekend. Tonight from 6 p.m. till 9 p.m. is the reunion and dinner is tomorrow during the day and a dinner at 6 p.m. for details you can visit the classes face book page or you can email them at centerpoint2000@gmail.com.

Tomorrow is the Burt/Mobbs family reunion; it will be held at the Centerpoint Community Building in Centerpoint Arkansas from 10 a.m. till 5:30 p.m. everyone is welcome to come out and have a good time. There will be a potluck so if you attend bring your favorite dish. For more information call medina Conaster at 879-845-3497.

Got a news tip, call the KWXI News tip hotline at 870-356-2151.

KWXI News for June 17, 2010

U.S. Sen. Mark Pryor says he would prefer a "simple and low-tech" way to warn people at remote campsites such as the southwest Arkansas recreation area where 20 people were killed by flash floods this past week. Pryor told reporters Wednesday that he planned to meet with U.S. Forest Service officials to discuss ways to improve warning systems at sites like the Albert Pike Recreation Area. Weather forecasters warned of the flooding that swept through southwest Arkansas this past Friday, four times over the course of an hour, but the campsite didn't have a ranger on duty, cell phone service was spotty and weather radio signals didn't reach there. Pryor says the solution may be as simple as warning bells or an informational campaign

Last week, Baptist preacher Graig Cowart had been preparing a sermon about family as a prelude to Father's Day. Then disaster struck near his rural Arkansas parish on Friday when torrential rainfall caused disastrous flash flooding. Cowart quickly scrapped his plans, saying: "The last thing they need is a sermon." His Pilgrim Rest Landmark Missionary Baptist Church became the unofficial headquarters for anxious family members, rescuers and media. The 43-year-old pastor became the spokesman for the families, providing their public face in 1 of the worst disasters in Arkansas history. He says, "What happened with this is sometimes God just steps out and presents you with a real life situation."

A man arrested in Washington State last week for the June 6th death of a Cross County woman has been formally charged in the case.
Rene Patrick Bourassa appeared at a preliminary hearing where he was ordered held without bond on charges of capital murder, theft of property, fraudulent use of a credit card, commercial burglary and aggravated robbery. Police say Bourassa was driving the car of victim Lillian Wilson when he was picked up on last Thursday. Wilson was found dead inside the sanctuary of Central United Methodist Church near Fair Oaks, AR.

The Barr Memorial Presbyterian Church's Gretta Lane Food Mission and Clothing Barn in Norman has gathered food, clothing, shoes, and small household items for victims of the recent flood that devastated southern Montgomery Co. and northern Pike County. Families may pick up forms to state their needs at the Norman City Hall and Gretta Lane Food Bank. The organizer of this event Cyndi Lindquist says so far this has been very successful. For more information call 870-223-2995 or 870-223-2725

The Glenwood Lions Club meeting called to order at 12:00 noon by President Lion Buddy Green. Secretary Lion Terry read minutes of May 4th Meeting; approved. Treasurer Lion Terry presented Treasurers report for May; approved. Guideing Lion William Mertins held the Installation of new officers, and stated duties of each. President Lion Terry Hutson, to conduct Lions Club meetings and other duties as necessary. Vice President Lion Fred McKinney, conduct meetings and duties in the absence of the President. Secretary-Treasurer Lion Marjorie Melichar, keep records of all meetings and activities of The Glenwood Lions Club including sending membership renewals; keep records of all finances of the Lions Club, make financial report at all meetings, keep President up to date on all finances. Lion Tamer Lion Doyle Shields, guardian of Lions Club Property, make sure it is displayed at all meetings. Tail Twister Lion Brenda Fuller, jokes and livens up meetings, collects fines for infractions such as (1) not wearing your Lions Club Pin (2) not using the word Lion before addressing someone, keep order, etc. Director #1, 2010-2011 Lion Windy Voght, Director #2, 2010-2012 Buddy Green. Lion William turned meeting over to Lion Buddy Green, who made an exit speech and introduced the new President Lion Terry Hutson, who conducted balance of meeting.
President Lion Terry asked about tentative night meeting set for Monday June 28. The reason for this meeting was a meetand greet those who can not attend our daytime meetings. Lion Marjorie stated Joe has confirmed the meeting at the Fish Nest for Monday June 28 6:00pm, but we need to guarantee 20 or more people for him to open up private room. There will be a $7.99 buffet available. We need an RSVP from those who can attend, so we can use the private room. Please e-mail Lion Terry or Lion Marjorie if you are able to attend, set up for 6:00 meet & greet, 6:30 eat.
Lion Nola suggested a guest speaker, possibly from Lions Serrvices for the Blind from Little Rock. Lion Nola will be in charge of obtaining a guest speaker.
Lion Richard suggested we get information on the Hot Springs South Lions Club Gun show, July 24 & 25th, 2010 and once again offer our services to their Club.
Lion Richard also suggested another fund raiser, discussion followed regarding best time to plan is August or later.
Question came up on how our Flag display was going. We have more flags and new brackets available. Lion Doyle said he would start working on the project again. He also volunteered to approach the Glenwood Chamber of Commerce and present our flag program to them.
There being no further business, Lion Doyle made motion to adjourn, 2nd by Lion Don Olney; carried  Closing prayer by Lion Buddy Green

KWXI News for Wednesday June 16th, 2010

An election scandal in Garland County is causing chaos with Garland County officials, resulting in some losing their positions. For Southwest Arkansas’s news leader, KWXI AM FM and DOT net, I’m Jennifer Tossey.
Voters in Garland County were disappointed with the limited number of polling places available to vote in last week’s runoff. At a meeting of the Garland County Democratic Party on Monday, party chair George Hozendorf claimed election commissioner Ginna Watson was responsible for violating voter’s rights in last week’s election. Watson and two other commissioners decided to close all but two polling locations last week when 40 locations were open for the May primary. Former election commission chair Charles Tapp resigned last Wednesday, taking blame only for an early voting mix-up. Monday night, in a 9 to 4 vote, Watson also got the boot, despite her defenses.

U.S. Congressman Mike Ross led the U.S. House of Representatives on Monday in a moment of silence to honor the lives lost in the recent disastrous flash floods that swept through the Albert Pike campground in southwest Arkansas and tragically killed 20 people. Joined by Texas Congressmen Ralph Hall, and John Fleming whose nearby districts also lost lives, Ross asked the chamber to observe a moment of silence “in remembrance of each and every life we lost in this tragedy.” As the chamber began its legislative business for the week, every member of the U.S. House of Representatives stood, heads bowed, for one minute at Ross’ request.

Secretary of State Charlie Daniels officially opened a new permanent State Capitol exhibit yesterday, which is called, Call of Duty: Arkansas at War, that highlights Arkansas’ war veterans. The exhibit is located in the northeast corner of the fourth floor of the Arkansas State Capitol and it serves as a rememberance of those Arkansans who have served our country and preserved our freedom.Secretary Daniels was joined by State Representative John Edwards, a veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom II, in making brief remarks on the service of Arkansas’s war heroes, both known and unknown. The exhibit may be viewed from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm on weekdays and from 10:00 am to 5 p.m. on weekends and holidays.

The Saddle Ridge Ranch vacation bible school at the First Baptist Royal Church in Royal, AR is set to take place on July 5th through July 9th at 6:00 p.m until 9:00 p.m. Pre-registration for this event will start on Monday June 28th through Sunday July 4th. Those interested can sign up in the church office which is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 am til 4:00 p.m.

KWXI News for Tuesday June 15th, 2010

Arkansas Flood deceased list. Notification of positive identification has been made to the family of Jadyn Basinger (flash flood victim #20).

BILL SADLER – PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER
ONE STATE POLICE PLAZA DRIVE
LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS 72209
(501) 618-8230

ANTHONY SMITH, 30 years of age, Gloster, LA
KATELYNN SMITH, 2 years of age, Gloster, LA
JOEY SMITH, 5 years of age, Gloster, LA
SHANE BASINGER, 34 years of age, Shreveport, LA
KINSLEY BASINGER, 6 years of age, Shreveport, LA
ROBERT LEE SHUMAKE, 68 years of age, DeKalb, TX
NIC SHUMAKE, 8 years of age, DeKalb, TX
SHERI WADE, 46 years of age, Ashdown, AR
ERIC SCHULTZ, 38 years of age, Nash, TX
BRUCE ROEDER, 51 years of age, Luling, LA
KAY ROEDER, 69 years of age, Luling, LA
DEBBIE ROEDER, 52 years of age, Luling, LA
GAYBLE Y. MOSS, 7 years of age, Texarkana, TX
KYLEE SULLIVAN, 6 years of age, Texarkana, TX
LESLIE JEZ, 23 years of age, Foreman, AR
KADEN JEZ, 3 years of age, Foreman, AR
DEBRA McMASTER, 43 years of age, Hope, AR
JULIE FREEMAN, 53 years of age, Texarkana, TX
WILENE SHUMAKE, 67 years of age, DeKalb, TX
JADYN BASINGER, 8 years of age, Shreveport, LA

The 20th body in the disastrous flash flood that took place on Friday was found yesterday after rescue teams scoured the Little Missouri area. Kerri Basinger’s oldest daughter, Jaydn who was 8 was the 20th victim to be found. Along with losing her oldest child, Basinger also lost her husband, Shane, and her youngest daughter, Kinsley, who was 6. State police say they are quite confident that this body is the last body missing. Captain Mike Fletcher says that although the girl’s body is believed to be the last one missing, crews will conduct a limited search today but the search will be scaled down from the hundreds of people who helped out in the woods and the river these past few days.

With the recovery of the 20th victim from Friday’s flash floods, attention is turning to whether visitors to the remote Albert Pike Recreation Area in Montgomery County received sufficient warnings about the approaching severe rainstorm. Although worried forecasters sent warnings four different times in one hour early Friday morning, it has been reported that the campground has no sirens, no park ranger on site, poor radio reception and spotty cell phone service. The U.S. Forest Service is reviewing how to improve communication to remote campgrounds in Arkansas and throughout the rest of the country.

The names of four victims who died in a Howard County plane crash on Sunday have been released. Carl and Caroline Davis along with Michael and Terry Hunt were on their way to Lakeview when the plane they were on went down just west of Umpire. It has been reported that there was low cloud coverage but that it is unknown if that is the cause of the crash. The national transportation safety board is investigating.

The Barr Memorial Presbyterian Church's Gretta Lane Food Bank and Clothing Barn in Norman has gathered food, clothing, shoes, and small household items for victims of the recent flood that devastated Southwest Arkansas. Families may pick up forms to state their needs at the Norman City Hall and Gretta Lane Food Bank. For more information call 870-223-2995 or 870-223-2725.

The 3rd annual Glenwood Arkansas Freedom Festival will take place on Friday, June 25th through Sunday June 27th. The Freedom Festival is a fundraiser for the Glenwood Senior Activities Center Home Delivered Meals. Several events have been scheduled for the festival including: free concerts, a dunk tank, a Veteran’s parade, a rubber duck race, and many more. The festivals organizer Marjorie Melichar (MeliKAR) has more. :23 seconds—we hope to grow every year---:27 than the year before---5:55—the gospel music is outstanding—6:00—its just really really good---6:21- 6:33---cat fish dinner. For more information about the Freedom Festival log onto our website at KWXI.net or call Marjorie Melichar at 870-356-2775.

KWXI News for Monday June 14th, 2010

Another tragedy ends a deadly week in the southwest portion of the natural state, for Southwest Arkansas’s news leader, KWXI AM-FM and Dot Net; I’m Bob DelGiorno.

Four people are dead after a civilian airplane crashed in Howard County near Umpire, 48 miles east of Glenwood yesterday morning. An FAA spokesperson said that the crash occurred around 9:30 yesterday morning shortly after the single engine plane took off Sunday in DeQueen, AR. Authorities believe that the plane was headed to an airport in North Arkansas or Southern Missouri when it crashed into the Howard County Wildlife management area. According to the Howard County Sheriff’s department, a woman said that she heard the plane flying low over her house and then a thud. The FAA in investigating the cause of the crash which is still unknown.

Crews are continuing to search for at least one more missing camper from Friday’s flash flood at Albert Pike campground near Langly, Arkansas. One more victim was recovered yesterday raising the death toll to 19. A register that would have showed who was staying at the campground was washed away in the flood. Crews have searched most of the 20-mile area down river of the campground along Little Missouri River. In Lodi, survivors and relatives who took refuge at a church while waiting for word of missing loved ones had diminished by yesterday. Graig Cowart, the pastor of the Pilgrim Rest Landmark Missionary Baptist Church who cared for victims family’s at the church held a Sunday morning service at the campground. Eight of the 15 victims identified victims from Friday’s flash flood were from Louisiana, six were from Texas and only one was from Arkansas. The Arkansas victim identified was Leslie Jez, a 23-year-old mother and wife from Foreman whose husband, Adam Jez, was listed among the flood's survivors.

The events are scheduled for the 3rd annual Glenwood, Arkansas Freedom Festival Friday June 25th though Sunday June 27th. This 3 day event is a fund raiser for the Glenwood Senior Activity Centers Home Delivered Meals. The organizer of Freedom Fest Marjorie Melichar told KPYN what some of the highlights of this year’s Freedom Fest are.
For more information on Freedom Fest in Glenwood, log on to our website at KWXI.Net for a complete schedule of all the events surrounding the event or call Marjorie Melichar at 870 356-2775.

UMPIRE, AR- Four people are dead after a civilian airplane crashed in Howard County near Umpire 48 miles east of Glenwood, AR Today (Sunday) morning around 9:30 a.m. An FAA spokesperson said that the single engine plane took off Sunday in DeQueen and was headed to an airport in North Arkansas or Southern Missouri when it crashed into the Howard County Wildlife management area. According to the Howard County Sheriff’s department, a woman said that she heard the plane flying low over her house and then a thud. The FAA in investigating the cause of the crash which is still unknown.

6/13/10 UPDATE : Rescuers have found a 19th body and one person remains missing after last week's flash flood, state police reported Sunday.

The latest victim was discovered about half to three-quarters of a mile downstream from the campground, Arkansas State Police Capt. Mike Fletcher told reporters. Eighteen of the 19 bodies recovered so far have been identified, Fletcher said, and one person remains unaccounted for.

K W X I News June 11, 2010

WASHINGTON - U.S. Congressman Mike Ross, D-Prescott, today issued the following statement in response to the tragic flash flood at the Albert Pike campgrounds and surrounding areas along the Little Missouri River.
"Camping and outdoor recreation is a way of life in Arkansas and this very sudden, tragic disaster is one that will affect hundreds of families in our area. My deepest thoughts and prayers are with those who have lost loved ones or have family members still missing. "Every level of government - local, county, state and federal - is working together on this major search and rescue effort and I commend our first responders for doing everything they can to help the remaining survivors. The Arkansas State Police, Arkansas National Guard, U.S. Forest Service, and other local, state and federal first responders are working very hard in rugged conditions and I know every Arkansan joins me in thanking them for the important work they are doing to save lives. "My office and I have spoken with local and state officials and with the U.S. Forest Service to pledge my full support as they help the people affected by this terrible disaster.



Caddo Gap- State Police say 16 people are confirmed dead after flash floods triggered by heavy rains slammed a pair of campgrounds in southwestern Arkansas. Arkansas State Police spokesman Bill Sadler says he does not know if those killed early Friday were campers or area residents. He says officials are moving in a refrigerated truck to set up as a temporary morgue. He says rescuers are searching for anyone still trapped by the flooding, but that they do not know how many there may be. He says the water level in Montgomery and Pike counties, some 75 miles west of Little Rock, peaked 23.5 feet Friday morning. He also says they are trying to establish an area in Glenwood, Arkansas for family members to check in about their relatives but that it is not established yet. Multiple Organizations are aiding in the effort, including Arkansas Game and Fish, the U.S. Forestry Service, and Arkansas State Police. Sadler has said the National Guard has sent in helicopters. There is little or no cell phone service in that area and it is hampering the search efforts.

On June 6, 2010 between the hours of 9:30 a.m. and Noon, Ms. Lillian Wilson, a long time resident of the Hamlin and Fair Oaks, AR area was found dead inside The Central Methodist Church sanctuary. On June 8, police had identified two "person's of interest" in the case but police say the two original suspects have been eliminated and are no longer considered to be involved in the case. The Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division and Cross County Sheriff's Department are asking for public assistance in identifying two new suspects wanted for questioning in connection with the murder of Ms. Wilson. Cross County Sheriff's Department officials on Tuesday afternoon requested the assistance of State Police Special Agents. During the past 24 hours Special Agents have developed new leads in the case and retrieved photographs of two male suspects. Security cameras in Fair Oaks photographed one of the suspects paying for gas shortly after the body of Lillian Wilson was discovered. The suspect in this image is described as being a white male, 50 to 60 years old, 5'10"-6'0" tall with balding gray hair. The second suspect is described as a white male, approximately 30 years old, 5'8"- 5'10" tall and bald headed. The vehicle taken from the murder victim has not been located. The vehicle is a gray 2003 Mercury Marquis with the Arkansas license plate of 737-NGN, and a green front plate that reads "Eat More Rice." Anyone who has information regarding the identity or the whereabouts of the two suspects, or the murder victim's car please call the Arkansas State Police or the Cross County Sheriff's Department.

A lawyer representing three Garland County voters who want Tuesday's election results nullified is moving forward with a lawsuit, even though the county's votes aren't enough to change the final outcome of the U.S. Senate race. The suit alleges that the county improperly reduced its number of polling places for the primary election to two for the runoff. Attorney Ben Hooten argues that minority and older voters who don't have car access were deprived of their right to vote. Senator Blanche Lincoln won Garland County in the runoff by 46 votes. Her opponent Lt. Gov. Bill Halter won the county in the May 18 primary. Election commission chairman Charles Tapp has said the decision to cut the number of polling places was made well within the 30-day limit that was required by law. Tapp resigned as chairman in a letter to Garland County voters on Wednesday.

An Arkadelphia mother, Denise New, was charged with harassment in March after she took over her son's Facebook account and posted messages claiming to be from him. She also left a series of harassing voice mails, some of which were profane. After appearing before Clark County Judge Randy Hill, New was ordered to take parenting and anger management classes. She must also pay fines and court costs and stay away from her 17 year old son, Lane New. If she fails to comply to these terms she will face a month in jail. Judge Randy Hill termed New's language as "outrageous, and inappropriate" and rejected New's claims that the state was interfering with her parental rights. She does not have custody of the teen. Justin Hurst, who represented New in court, says he is unsure if his client will appeal the verdict to the Circuit Court, where New could have the case heard by a jury.

Leon Dillard was injured when the 1997 Oldsmobile minivan he was driving east on Broadway rear-ended a 1995 Dodge Pick-up driven by James K. Horn, which in turn hit a 2004 Mazda driven by Juana M. Cruz. All three drivers reside in Glenwood. The accident occurred near the intersection of Mountain View Road and Broadway with Texas Street.

The Glenwood Senior Activity Center will be hosting a "Fishing Derby" for members and others who are 60 years of age or older on Thursday June 24 in the nearby Derby Lake in John Benjamin Park. Cane fishing polls will be available for those who do not have their own fishing pole. In order to participate you need to register at the Senior Activity Center at 870-356-4212.

The Newhope Volunteer Fire Department will be hosting a bingo night at the fire department June 19th starting at 6 p.m. All of the proceeds will go to the "Benefit the Newhope Fire Department." Cash prizes will be given to winning participants. You must be 18 years or older to play.

K W X I News June 10, 2010

The U.S. Department of Agriculture says four counties in Arkansas have been designated as natural disaster areas because of losses caused by severe weather. The agency announced Wednesday that Faulkner, Lonoke, Mississippi and Woodruff counties were chosen because of severe storms, hail, high winds and tornadoes that occurred April 23 through May 4. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says the action will help farmers who had significant production losses to crops that include corn, upland cotton, rice, soybeans, wheat, peaches and strawberries.Natural disaster assistance also is being extended to farmers and ranchers in 16 contiguous counties: Arkansas, Crittenden, Monroe, Pulaski, Cleburne, Cross, Perry, St. Francis, Conway, Jackson, Poinsett, Van Buren, Craighead, Jefferson, Prairie and White.

More than 53,000 students have applied for Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarships and state officials say many recipients will be notified before the end of June. The deadline for applying was June 1. The Arkansas Scholarship Lottery is to provide funding for 28,000 scholarships - $5,000 for students in four-year programs and $2,500 for students in community colleges. Students heading from high school to college will be notified first whether they qualified, then current college students and nontraditional students will receive word. The Higher Education Department says $125 million will be available for the scholarships. Up to $41.5 million will go toward current students who qualify as "achievers" and $12 million to nontraditional students.

Stone County officials are puzzling over what to do next since the runoff for sheriff ended in a tie. Lance Bonds and Todd Hudspeth each received 1,383 votes. County Clerk Donna Wilson says the county Election Commission was meeting Wednesday to go over provisional ballots and other materials. Wilson says that if the tie holds up, the law says the candidates will have to draw lots to determine a winner. Two overseas ballots had not arrived as of Tuesday, but Wilson says it appears those votes may not be counted.
Either candidate can request a recount, but it would be at the candidate's expense. Wilson says the Election Commission is exploring whether it can call for a recount itself.

The Glenwood Library's Summer Reading Program will start June 16th and continue for four Wednesdays. Librarian Judy Johnson said that there would be a number of activities for children. The program is for ages 6 through 12 and registration is required. For information or to register you can call the library or register them in person.

The Arkansas Highway Commission will be resurfacing six miles of US Highway 70 this summer according to Commission Chairman Carl Rosenbaum. Rosenbaum told KWXI news that a Paris, TX company will resurface the highway from Newhope east for six miles and that the work, which will take between two and four weeks, will be completed in September.

K W X I News June 9, 2010

Sen. Blanche Lincoln has fended off a union-backed challenger and anti-establishment sentiment to win a runoff for Arkansas' Democratic Senate nomination. Lincoln defeated union-backed Lt. Gov. Bill Halter yesterday. She'll face Republican congressman John Boozman in the Nov. 2 General Election.

Three voters in Garland County have filed suit over Tuesday's runoff elections, arguing that the Garland County Election Commission disenfranchised voters by drastically reducing the number of polling locations. The lawsuit, filed yesterday in Garland County Circuit court, accuses the commission of intentionally disenfranchising minority, elderly, poor and disabled voters. Garland County had 40 polling places for the May 18 primaries but only two for the runoff elections.

After a rejection for help from FEMA, Gov. Mike Beebe has freed up $1 million from the Governor's Disaster Fund to help individuals recover from tornadoes and floods this spring. An announcement from Beebe's office said the Federal Emergency Management Agency had denied an application for direct federal aid. Arkansans with uninsured damage to their primary residences may be eligible for state aid in Conway, Crittenden, Jackson, Lonoke, Mississippi, Poinsett, Pulaski, Saline, Stone and Van Buren Counties. Eligibility for the state assistance will be determined by the Arkansas Department of Emergency Management and the Department of Human Services.

A Clarendon lawyer has been named to the Arkansas Court of Appeals by Gov. Mike Beebe, to replace a member of the court who resigned to take a U.S. district judge position. Raymond Abramson of Holly Grove was named to the state court by Beebe on Monday. The announcement said the 59-year-old Abramson would replace Price Marshall, who has been appointed and confirmed as a U.S. district judge in Little Rock. According to the news release, Abramson is a 1976 graduate of the University of Arkansas School of Law. He was previously named by Beebe to serve as a special associate justice on the state Supreme Court, to hear a case that prompted a judge on the high court to step aside. Abramson will serve through the end of 2012. The remaining two years of Marshall's term on the court will be filled by an election in the appeals court's District 1, comprising 12 counties in east Arkansas.

The National Park Service says two boys have drowned during a visit to the Buffalo National River near Ponca. According to a news release, 8-year-old Hunter Taylor and 12-year-old Dustin Taylor of Kingston were with five others at the Ponca Low Water Bridge Saturday night. The Park Service says the boys' 9-year-old brother saw them in the water about 8:15 p.m. as they were trying to retrieve Hunter Taylor's swimming trunks. When they didn't resurface, the brother sought help. The Park Service says the children's stepfather and a park visitor recovered the boys from the water, and tried to revive them. The 12-year-old was pronounced dead at a Harrison hospital, and his younger brother died Sunday morning at a Missouri hospital.

Benton County authorities say an inmate being held on robbery charges apparently hanged himself. Sheriff Keith Ferguson says 26-year-old Thomas Nathaniel Lane was found unconscious in his cell about 10 a.m. Monday. He was taken to a Bentonville hospital where he was pronounced dead. Ferguson says he's asked the Arkansas State Police to investigate. Ferguson says the suicide is the first in his eight years as the county's sheriff.

K W X I  News June 8, 2010

Cross County authorities are investigating the death of an 80-year-old woman who was found in a church as a homicide. Sheriff's Detective Keith Vaughn says officials received a call about 12:30 p.m. Sunday that a body had been found at the Central United Methodist Church in Hamlin. Vaughn said Monday that Lillian Wilson, who was from the area, appeared to have suffered blunt force trauma to the head. Sheriff J.R. Smith had said Wilson's pastor found her. Vaughn says there are a few people of interest to investigators in the case, but no names were released. Vaughn declined additional comment. Hamlin is located about 50 miles west of Memphis, Tenn.

Prosecutors say they will retry the 30-year-old man accused of killing beauty queen Nona Dirksmeyer. The capital murder trial of Gary Dunn ended last month in a mistrial after jurors couldn't agree on a verdict. Prosecutors charged Dunn in the December 2005 beating death of Dirksmeyer, who was found dead in her Russellville apartment. The new trial is to begin Jan. 10, 2011. Circuit Judge Bill Pearson has issued a gag order, so prosecutors declined further comment. Dunn lived in the same apartment complex as Dirksmeyer, an Arkansas Tech University music major. His attorneys argued that Dirksmeyer's boyfriend, Kevin Jones, was the real killer.

Polls are open in Arkansas for the runoff election between Lt. Gov. Bill Halter and incumbent US Senator Blanche Lincoln. The winner will face Republican John Boozman in the General Election in November. The runoff today is being closely watched by the national media, in part due to the millions of dollars unions have sent to the state to support Bill Halter's attempt to unseat Lincoln.

Saline County voters soon could have the chance to vote on a 1-cent sales tax proposal to build the Central Arkansas Fairplex in Benton. The county's Quorum Court will meet Thursday night to discuss the Fairplex idea and decide on whether to send the sales-tax proposal to voters. Under the Fairplex proposal, the facility would cost between $50 million and $60 million and would include a convention center and hotel, arena, pavilions and more at the site of the old Watts Field Airport near Interstate 30. Proponents say the Fairplex could host large equestrian events, regional high school sports championships, monster-truck rallies and possibly the Arkansas State Fair, which is considering a move out of Little Rock.

K W X I News June, 7 2010

Lt. Gov. Bill Halter's campaign says it's concerned that Garland County election officials reneged on their promise to allow early voting on Saturday. The county didn't open an early voting site, even though Garland County Election Commission Chairman Charles Tapp announced on Friday that it would. Halter had met with Tapp on Friday over concerns that the county would only have two precincts open for Tuesday's runoff, instead of the roughly 40 that were open for the May 18 primary. Halter faces Sen. Blanche Lincoln in the runoff for the Democratic Senate nomination. He won the county in the May primary. Tapp says it was a mistake to announce the Saturday hours because state law doesn't allow early voting unless the county clerk's office is open.

Democratic Senate candidate Bill Halter isn't saying whether he supports "card check," a process that allows workers to form a union by signing cards instead of holding a secret-ballot vote. Halter sidestepped questions on the issue during a Sunday morning on CNN's "State of the Union." He says card check isn't an issue and he supports a democratic process for forming unions. Halter's stance has become an issue because unions have spent millions of dollars supporting him in his bid to unseat Democratic Sen. Blanche Lincoln. Lincoln made a separate appearance on the Sunday morning show. The two are engaged in a nationally watched runoff. The winner of Tuesday's runoff will face Republican U.S. Rep. John Boozman in the general election.

A Benton County jury has acquitted a county judge on two misdemeanor ethics-related charges and deadlocked on a third count. The panel late Friday found Dave Bisbee not guilty on two counts that he used his influence and position as county judge for personal gain, and deadlocked on the count that accused him of using his influence and position for his associate's gain. Bisbee, a former state legislator, said he feels vindicated. Prosecutors alleged that Bisbee hired Valley Homes, a construction company he owned at the time, to complete a county remodeling job in Rogers. Prosecuting Attorney Van Stone said he respected the jury's decisions but plans to seek another trial. A county judge is the chief executive of county government in Arkansas.

Crews have recovered the bodies of a North Little Rock man and his son who went missing while on a boating trip in the Arkansas River. North Little Rock Fire Capt. John Pflasterer (FLASS'-tur-rur) said Friday night Pulaski County sheriff's divers found 16-year-old Hunter Bowman about 6:30 p.m. His 45-year-old father, Wayne Bowman, was discovered about 20 minutes later. Pflasterer says authorities began searching for the Bowmans about 10:30 a.m. after Bowman's wife said she hadn't heard from her husband and son. Crews found their canoe near Burns Park. Pflasterer says the Bowmans left for the trip Thursday, and were last seen by joggers on a sand bar about 4:30 that afternoon.

U.S. Sen. Mark Pryor is concerned about invasive alligator weed that he says has changed the nature of a southwestern Arkansas lake. Pryor told the Texarkana Gazette that he's spoken twice during the past year with the Army Corps of Engineers about the problems at Millwood Lake, which covers about 29,000 acres in four counties. Pryor says he used to fish at Millwood Lake and that when he toured the lake last year, he could see how much shallower it's become during the past decade. Little River County is applying for a grant to study how to eliminate alligator weed and other unwanted vegetation at the lake. In 2008, the Corps of Engineers began fighting alligator weed and hydrilla at the lake, where the agency determined the two plants cover about 7,500 acres.

K W X I News June 4, 2010

The director of the Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department says it will cost about $218.7 million to repair damage to state highways caused by heavy truck traffic associated with drilling for natural gas. A department report evaluated the state's secondary highways in the gas-rich Fayetteville Shale area of north-central Arkansas. The report found almost 538 miles of roads damaged to some degree, including about 177 miles of roads that had "major structural damage." Department director Dan Flowers says if federal highways are included, the damage total will be higher. He says initial damage estimates on those roads is $184 million. The University of Arkansas' Center for Business and Economic Research has estimated that drilling activities in the Fayetteville Shale will have a $22 billion economic impact during an 8-year period through 2012.

Arkansas Attorney General Dustin McDaniel has asked the U.S. Supreme Court to shield grieving families from protests at funerals. McDaniel's office said he had joined a brief filed by several other states' attorneys general asking the high court to support an appeal by the family of a Maryland serviceman killed in Iraq. Arkansas is among states with laws that prohibit pickets at funerals. Arkansas law bars protests within 150 feet of a funeral, from 30 minutes before to 30 minutes after the service. The brief McDaniel supports asks the high court to support such laws.

The Arkansas Lottery Commission has ordered a review of its human resources policies and its employee salary structure.Commissioner Joe White of Conway said after the panel met Wednesday that he asked for the reviews based on accusations in a letter sent anonymously last month to commission members and a legislator. The commission met in a closed session for a little over two hours Wednesday morning before unanimously approving White's motion for the review. There was no discussion. The commission will ask the state Office of Personnel Management to conduct the review.

A small, 2.0-magnitude earthquake shook parts of northern Faulkner County late Wednesday night. At 10:02 p.m., the U.S. Geological Survey reported that the 2.0-magnitude quake took place four miles east-northeast of Damascus and four miles north of Guy. USGS equipment in the Cooperative New Madrid Seismic Network estimated the quake occurred about 2.7 miles beneath the surface.Another smaller earthquake was reported by the USGS system at 8:56 p.m. Wednesday night. The 1.8-magnitude quake occurred about four miles north-northeast of Guy and about five miles west of Quitman.
A 1.5-magnitude quake was reported in the area at about 11:25 p.m. Wednesday, and another 1.7-magnitude earthquake was reported in the same area at about 2:49 a.m. Thursday morning.

Randy Zook, CEO of the Arkansas Chamber of Commerce, will speak in Mount Ida June 17th at 1 pm about how health care reform will affect small businesses in Arkansas. There will be an opportunity to ask questions. The meeting will be at the Civic Center in Mount Ida. For more information call 870-867-2723

The Glenwood High School classes from 1980 to 1989 will be having a Decade Reunion August 7th in Glenwood. One of the organizers, Angie Shields Killingsworth, can be contacted at 501-605-6145 for additional information.

The US Army Corp of Engineers will be selling some timber at Lake Greeson in Pike County. Information is available by contacting the Corp at 601-631-5229.

K W X I News June 3, 2010

Arkansas' finance office says state revenues were above forecast and above last year's figures in May, prompting optimism after months of sluggish tax collections. The Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration reported Wednesday that net available revenues totaled $311.4 million in May. That's $18.4 million above last year's figures and $38.3 million above the forecast. Department officials say a combination of one-time effects, including a shift in individual income tax withholding, fueled part of the increase. The state's sales tax and individual income tax collections also were above forecast and above last year's figures. In May, finance officials cut the state's budget forecast by $41 million because of a sharp decrease in tax collections.

State Health Department officials have shut down Beaverfork Lake near Conway to swimmers after tests on water samples from the lake found elevated levels of the E. coli bacteria. The lake was closed to swimmers Saturday. Environmental health specialist Thomas Jones says 1 of the samples indicated an E. coli level four times too high and another showed a level eight times too high. Jones says health department officials collected nine water samples Tuesday for more testing. Health officials say it will be Friday at the earliest before the results are in from tests on those samples. Officials say the source of the elevated E. coli levels will be hard to determine, but that runoff from excessive rain could have played a role.

A bald, heavyset man who the FBI says has robbed 21 banks in the eastern and central U.S. is proving to be so elusive that the agency has given him a name - the "Granddad Bandit." The FBI announced plans Tuesday to post a picture of him on billboards in hopes of catching him. The man is believed to be 50 to 60 years old. The FBI describes him as about 6 feet tall, bald and heavy. He is wanted in 12 states: Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Kansas, Florida, New York, Oklahoma, Texas, Mississippi, Missouri, Tennessee and Virginia. Though the man has been dubbed the "Granddad Bandit," not much is known about him. The FBI says it typically assigns a name to serial bank robbers to give the public a reference point.


Another push in Congress to end the era of tax-free Internet sales may be coming, but state lawmakers are not optimistic legislation is going anywhere soon. For the past decade, Arkansas and other states have been working to streamline their tax codes in a joint effort to demonstrate to Congress there is national support for taxing online purchases. Georgia will be the 24th state to become a full member of the Streamline Sales Tax Agreement when legislation passed by its legislature goes into effect Jan. 1. Arkansas became a full member of the agreement in January 2008.

Telephone landline provider Windstream Corp. says it has completed its acquisition of Iowa Telecommunications Services Inc., a transaction valued at $1.2 billion. Windstream said in a news release Tuesday that the deal announced Nov. 24 had been brought to a successful conclusion. Under terms negotiated between the two companies, Iowa Telecom shareholders received 0.804 shares of Little Rock-based Windstream stock and $7.90 in cash for each Iowa Telecom share they held. Windstream said it issued 26.7 million shares of stock valued at $284 million, based on the company's closing stock price on May 28, and paid approximately $260 million in cash. Windstream also repaid all of Iowa Telecom's outstanding debt, about $613 million. The acquisition adds to Windstream approximately 249,000 access lines operated by Iowa Telecom, 96,000 high-speed Internet customers and 27,500 digital TV customers in Iowa and Minnesota. Windstream provides digital phone, high-speed Internet and high-definition digital TV service and has more than 3 million access lines in 18 states.

K W X I News June 2, 2010

A business conditions index for nine Midwest and Plains states, including Arkansas, continues to signal improvement for the regional economy. In a report released yesterday, the May Business Conditions Index for the Mid-America region rose for the sixth month in a row, to 64.2 in May from 61.7 in April. The index, which ranges from zero to 100, is overseen by Creighton University economics professor Ernie Goss. Goss says scores above 50 suggest economic growth in the next three to six months, while scores below 50 suggest a contracting economy in the coming months.The survey was compiled from supply managers and business leaders in Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma and South Dakota.

Sen. Blanche Lincoln and Lt. Gov. Bill Halter are launching statewide tours as they begin their weeklong march toward the runoff for the Democratic Senate nomination. Lincoln planned stops on her "Countdown to Victory" tour on Tuesday while Halter planned to launch what his campaign called a "Countdown to Change" tour. Tuesday marks the start of early voting for the June 8 runoff. Lincoln planned stops in Pine Bluff, Star City, Monticello, Hamburg, Warren and Lake Village. Halter planned to visit Texarkana, Magnolia, Camden and El Dorado. Halter and Lincoln have been engaged in a heated and expensive fight for the Democratic Senate nomination. The winner of the runoff will face Republican Congressman John Boozman in the November election.

Construction crews have begun the work of expanding the U.S. National Cemetery in Fort Smith. Workers from Limestone Development of Burlington, Vt., began turning dirt on the project in April. They are working to convert former baseball and softball fields into future cemetery plots. Cemetery director John Spruyt says the concrete bleachers and other structures from the fields are gone and that excavation has started so that burial vaults can be installed. He says using the vaults will simplify the burial process and maximize the use of the cemetery's new acreage.About 3,000 more gravesites will be added on four acres during the project's first phase, which should be finished by the summer of 2011. Plans call for a total cemetery expansion of about nine acres during the next 10 years or more.

An 18-year-old Marmaduke High School graduate can boast that she didn't miss a day of school from kindergarten through 12th grade. Tristin Clayton says she never wanted to skip class and was fortunate never to be too sick to make it to school in the Greene County district in northeastern Arkansas. She says that before she started school having perfect attendance was a goal she wanted to achieve. Clayton says one of the benefits of having perfect attendance is never having to be concerned with making up assignments or missing lessons. She plans to attend Arkansas State University in the fall and plans to "do her best" to keep her record of perfect attendance.

K W X I News June 1, 2010

Authorities say a 21-year-old suspect in the shooting of another man has surrendered. Garland County Sheriff's Department Lt. James Martin says authorities arrested Kelly Oliver on complaints of criminal attempt at first-degree murder and kidnapping. Bond has not been set and Oliver remained in the county jail Monday. The department identified the shooting victim as Robert Ward. Martin says Oliver was at the home of his girlfriend's grandmother but don't know why. Martin says the two women had asked Ward to check on the home periodically while they were out of town. Martin says that as Ward was doing do, Oliver took him hostage at gunpoint. Ward was shot while escaping. He was taken to a local hospital for surgery and a department dispatcher said Monday he survived.

Authorities say they've raided a cockfighting ring at a Saline County home. Lt. Mike Frost of the county Sheriff's Office says officers received a tip about the ring. He says when deputies arrived, they found 25 roosters, the ring and other fighting materials. Officers seized about $3,800. Frost says two men escaped and authorities are looking for them.

Early voting opens starts today for party-primary runoff elections for a handful of state and federal offices in Arkansas. Turnout for the runoffs is not expected to match the number of voters who went to the polls for party primaries on May 18. The Secretary of State says he's not making a prediction on voter turnout for the runoffs but did say voting typically drops off sharply in such elections. In the May 18 primaries, 29% of the state's 1.6 million registered voters cast ballots. The most-watched runoff race is on the Democratic Party ballots, where incumbent Sen. Blanche Lincoln is matched against Lt. Gov. Bill Halter in contest for the party's nomination to the Senate seat Lincoln now holds.

The University of Arkansas Medical Center says it has received certification as an advanced primary stroke center. The Joint Commission for Primary Stroke Centers awards the designation to hospitals. Jean Range, the executive director of the commission's Disease-Specific Care Certification, says UAMS has demonstrated that its stroke care program can "significantly improve" outcomes for patients. UAMS has one of only three stroke neurologists in Arkansas and has a neurointensivist. The hospital's stroke team also includes interventional neuroradiologists and vascular neurosurgeons. The hospital plans to open a neurointensive care unit in July. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention statistics in 2006 indicated Arkansas leads the nation in stroke mortality, with about 59 deaths per 100,000 population.

First prize in the FLW Tour Chevy Open on Lake Ouachita has been claimed by Brent Ehrler of Redlands, Calif. On Saturday, the five fish that Ehrler brought to the weigh-in at Hot Springs totaled 11 pounds, 11 ounces. That brought his 4-day total to 58 pounds, 1 ounce, enough to give Ehrler an edge of 22 ounces - 1 pound, 6 ounces - over second-place finisher Scott Suggs of Bryant. Ehrler collected $127,500 for his first-place finish, including bonuses.

The driver of a horse-drawn carriage in downtown Hot Springs has asked the city's Police Department to better enforce the city's noise-control ordinance. A petition started by carriage driver Bud Kenny was signed by 52 people, including at least 49 business owners in the downtown business district. But not everybody with a business downtown is as concerned as Kenny is. His petition says noise from motor vehicles with improper mufflers is creating an unhealthy environment. But Tom Daniel, a member of the Hot Springs Board of Directors who owns several businesses in the downtown area, urged a realistic outlook in enforcing the city's noise ordinance. He says two bike rallies a year bring a tremendous amount of people to the city, and they spend a lot of money.

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