Grant Available to Newport's Small Businesses

Newport Economic Development Commission (NEDC) announces the ReNewport Grant program for 2009. The NEDC is creating a funding pool of $25,000 to be dedicated to help small businesses in Newport make needed improvements to the exterior of their buildings, to their parking lots or grounds. The goals of the grant are to assist small businesses in making capital improvements to their buildings, to make businesses in Newport more competitive by helping improve their access and signage and to assist in the beautification of the community.

The grant will be a 50% matching grant, meaning that the business owner or the building owner will pay half of the cost of the improvements and the NEDC will award the business a grant for the other half of the cost. The maximum grant amount will be $2,500, allowing businesses to receive 50% of up to a $5,000 project. The grant can be used for any exterior renovations to a building or property that houses an active business or that will house an active business within 30 days of completion of the project.Grants will be awarded on a first qualified application first funded basis with applications being accepted starting January 15, 2009.

If you would like a grant application and a set of grant guidelines, please contact the Newport Economic Development Commission. Applications must be turned in to the Newport Economic Development Commission, 201 Hazel Street, P.O. Box 766, Newport, AR 72112. They can be mailed, delivered in person, faxed to (870)523-1009 or emailed to director@newportaredc.org. The NEDC will continue to accept applications until businesses have used the pool of funds for 2009. In 2008 the Newport Economic Development Commission conducted an existing business survey for businesses in Jackson County. Eighty-one of the approximately five hundred businesses in and around Newport answered the survey. One request that was often given was to find ways to give assistance to the small businesses in our community.

After researching other communities across the United States, the NEDC adopted the ReNewport Grant as the best way to help small businesses. The grant is open to existing small businesses and new small businesses alike; however, it is reserved for retail and commercial businesses.If you would like more information or have questions about the grant, please feel free to call Jon or Shirley at the Newport Economic Development Commission Office, (870)523-1009. The ReNewport Grant is just another way the NEDC is working with our local businesses to bring about Jackson County’s bright future.

Fundraiser December 12th

December 12th Big Brothers and Big Sisters Fundraiser Dinner 5:30-6:45 with Newport High School Drama Department play at 7 pm. Tickets $7. Please contact me for tickets (lj@ljbryant.com). In the first year of the program this year, we have over 30 matches. A match can cost as much as $1,000. Your support is needed for Big Brothers and Big Sisters here in Jackson County.


Jackson County
Advisory Board of Directors

LJ Bryant,
President
Judy Beard
Vice President
Connie Waters Boyster
Treasurer
Amber Grady
Secretary

Barbara Brown
Ronnie Kay Erwin
Ricky Everett
Kathy Green
Eddie Johnson
Billy Keedy
Leroy Mansko
Stephanie Martin
Tim Martin
Lisa Tennyson


Staff
Amy Stockton
CEO

Kristin Jackson
Partnership Specialist

Election runoff today in Tuckerman

Today in Tuckerman there is a Mayoral runoff and a City Council runoff. Questions about voting? Call Jackson County Clerk-(870) 523-7400.

Good news for Newport & Jackson County

Specialty Sands, LLC has recently selected Newport as the home for their new sand mining and processing operation. Specialty Sands is a subsidiary of Klotz Sand, Inc., a company that has been in the business of processing sand and other materials since 1973. The company reached an agreement with local officials on an industrial site and will start to move equipment to the site during the first two weeks of December.The Newport Economic Development Commission and the Newport Jackson County Industrial Development Bond Board working with Bratcher Real Estate developed a proposal which will allow Specialty Sands, LLC to lease approximately 9 acres at the former Southern Cotton Oil Mill property.

The property has been owned and managed by the Newport Jackson County Industrial Development Bond Board since the mid 1990’s with the purpose of encouraging industrial development in Newport. For the last several years the City of Newport has used to site to process wood waste picked up in Newport. The Newport Economic Development Commission will assist the city in relocating the wood waste processing facility to a new site as a portion of the incentive package used to recruit Specialty Sands, LLC.Specialty Sands plans to start production early next year and eventually hire at least 20 people with an average wage of $15 per hour or more.

Today is election day

Questions about voting? Jackson County residents call the Jackson County Clerk-(870) 523-7400. White County residents call the White County Clerk (501) 279-6200.

October 31 event

Over 200 area residents attended "The Haunted Choices House of Horrors" which showcased the horrors and consequences of substance abuse. October 31, 2008 the Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drugs Subcommittee held a Haunted House and other activities at the Branch Community Center. The evening started with trunk or treat, face painting, a sponge-throwing contest, a cakewalk, and apple bobbing before a hot dog meal was served. The free event emphasized the fun that can be had in an alcohol and drug-free lifestyle. Special thanks to sponsors: Arkansas Department of Human Services Office of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention, Jackson County Health Unit, Branch Community Center, Project New Start, Health Resources of Arkansas, Newport Drama Club, Jackson County Wellness Coalition, Harris Hospital, Merchants and Planters Bank, ASU-Newport volunteers, Farm Bureau ladies, Jackson County State Employee's Association, and the Jackson County Sheriff's office.Those interested in joining ATOD's effort should contact L. J. Bryant (lj@ljbryant.com & 870-376-4458).

President Clinton's visit to Arkansas: Footage

http://www.kait8.com/Global/category.asp?C=4391

Grubbs update

http://www.kait8.com/global/story.asp?s=9231303

Early Voting Begins today

Early Voting Begins today.

Questions about voting? Jackson County residents call the Jackson County Clerk-(870) 523-7400. White County residents call the White County Clerk (501) 279-6200.

Jonesboro Sun reports on Newport today

http://www.jonesborosun.com/story.php?ID=35085

Senator Clinton coming to Arkansas

Sen. Hillary Clinton will return to Little Rock this month to campaign for Sen. Barack Obama. "Senator Clinton is returning to Arkansas, and I could not be more pleased," said Democratic Party of Arkansas Chairman David Pryor. "Arkansas Democrats are always excited to see Hillary. We're going to have a great time as we encourage Arkansans to vote for Senator Obama." Senator Clinton will be joined by Gov. Mike Beebe, DPA Chairman David Pryor, and many other elected officials and Democratic leaders, for a get out the vote rally in Little Rock on Friday, Oct. 10, around 5 p.m. near the State Capitol. The exact time and location of the event are to be determined.

Vote Newport

Newport Greyhound Artez Brown is one of three featured plays on KAIT's website from Friday night's game. The winning play will be announced during the 10 p.m. newscast Tuesday. Vote for Artez's play at http://www.kait8.com/Global/category.asp?C=69620&nav=menu67_4. You can vote until 8 p.m. Tuesday.

US Senate passes bill to move FEMA trailers from Hope

http://www.kait8.com/global/story.asp?s=9084851

Tuesday election results

"The Newport School Board will accept Jeff Rutledge as a member in the October school board meeting. Rutledge won the school board race with 43 votes, eight more than his opponent Donnie Schulz."

Source: "http://www.newportindependent.com/articles/2008/09/19/news/01.txt"

Newport School Board Candidates speak out

Jonesboro Sun reports today: "http://www.jonesborosun.com/story.php?ID=34749"


"Jackson CountyThe only contested race in Jackson County is between Donnie Schulz and Jeff Rutledge for Zone 4, Position 4, on the Newport School Board.Schulz said he wants to be involved in his children’s education.“To me, there is no one issue in particular,” Schulz said. “My four kids go there and I feel like I need to be a direct part of their lives.”Schulz, who has lived in Jackson County his entire life and in Newport for the past 20 years, said the school has improved.“They have made a lot of progress and I want them to continue,” Schulz said. “We did a book study this summer about community involvement in the schools. I believe Newport needs more community involvement in our schools.”Rutledge said his son provided the impetus for his candidacy.“My son just started kindergarten,” Rutledge said. “I want to make sure he has a great education, like the one I had at Newport.”Rutledge, who has farmed in Newport since 1999, said he would like to focus on academics, facilities and discipline.“There is not one specific issue I want to focus on,” Rutledge said. “I want to lend my ability to whatever use I can for the district.”Barry Hulett is running uncontested this year for the Jackson County School District Position 7."

Special Event Today

Today from 1:30 - 3:00 pm a reception will be held at the Newport Business Resource Center to unveil a joint project between graduate students from the Clinton School of Public Service, the Downtown Revitalization and Improvement Volunteer Effort (D.R.I.V.E.), the Iron Mountain Regional Arts Council (IMRAC) and the Newport Economic Development Commission (NEDC).

In the attached press release you will note that the Clinton School of Public Service is announcing their commitment to work with Newport on a project to create a Delta Center for the Visual Arts to be located in downtown Newport. Clinton School Dean Skip Rutherford will be on hand to announce the cooperative project agreement between the school and the community. The program portion of the reception will occur around 2 pm.

Labor Day

Wonder about the history of labor day? See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Labor_day

Saturation Patrols in Jackson County

http://www.kait8.com/global/video/popup/pop_player.asp?clipId1=2808073&at1=News&vt1=v&h1=Saturation+Patrols&d1=26433&redirUrl=www.kait8.com&activePane=info&LaunchPageAdTag=homepage&clipFormat=&playerVersion=1&hostPageUrl=http%3A//www.kait8.com/global/video/popup/pop_playerLaunch.asp%3FclipId1%3D2808073%26at1%3DNews%26vt1%3Dv%26h1%3DSaturation+Patrols%26d1%3D26433%26redirUrl%3Dwww.kait8.com%26activePane%3Dinfo%26LaunchPageAdTag%3Dhomepage%26clipFormat%3D&rnd=36157095

Tuckerman Story

http://www.kait8.com/global/story.asp?s=8897175

NEA angle to the Olympics

http://www.jonesborosun.com/story.php?ID=34358

KAIT interviews Senator Lincoln

http://www.kait8.com/global/video/popup/pop_player.asp?clipId1=2803750&at1=News&vt1=v&h1=Lincoln+Energy&d1=67633&redirUrl=www.kait8.com&activePane=info&LaunchPageAdTag=homepage&clipFormat=&playerVersion=1&hostPageUrl=http%3A//www.kait8.com/global/video/popup/pop_playerLaunch.asp%3FclipId1%3D2803750%26at1%3DNews%26vt1%3Dv%26h1%3DLincoln+Energy%26d1%3D67633%26redirUrl%3Dwww.kait8.com%26activePane%3Dinfo%26LaunchPageAdTag%3Dhomepage%26clipFormat%3D&rnd=19265447

KAIT names Newport as Community of the Year

http://www.newportindependent.com/articles/2008/08/13/news/01.txt

KAIT interviews Congressman Berry on energy

http://www.kait8.com/Global/category.asp?C=4391

Video: Senator Pryor discusses his recent trip to Iraq and the Gang of 10

http://www.todaysthv.com/video/default.aspx?aid=71494

Also, see the Gang of 10. It is a group of 5 Democrat and 5 Republican U. S. Senators determined to comprise to achieve results for energy independence. Both of our U.S. Senators are in this group. http://www.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/08/05/energy.debate/?iref=hpmostpop

Vote for Newport

http://www.kait8.com/global/Story.asp?s=8708106
Vote for Newport on KAIT's website.

Newport Job Fair featured by Channel 8

See the video footage at: "http://www.kait8.com/Global/category.asp?C=4391"

Jacksonport Levee

KAIT reports on the Jacksonport levee
http://www.kait8.com/global/story.asp?s=8725193

Minimum Wage

Minimum Wage increases today to $6.55. It will go to $7.25 next summer.

KAIT on Newport History

NEWPORT (KAIT) Newport has gone through some tough times that has earned it the name of "Plucky Newport"
Between the devastating fires, and floods Newport has risen like a phoenix to where it is today.

Full story at: "http://www.kait8.com/global/story.asp?s=8711504"

Video footage of KAIT's trip to Newport yesterday: "http://www.kait8.com/Global/category.asp?C=4391"

Debt

Thank you again for your support. The campaign does have debt. If you want to contribute financially to the campaign's debt relief; we would love your help. Contributions can be mailed to PO Box 1161 Newport, Arkansas 72112.

Great quote

"To exclude from positions of trust and command all those below the age of 44 would have kept Jefferson from writing the Declaration of Independence, Washington from commanding the Continental Army, Madison from fathering the Constitution, Hamilton from serving as secretary of the treasury, Clay from being elected speaker of the House and Christopher Columbus from discovering America."--JFK

Thank you

Thank you to all 1,315 of you who voted for our campaign. We loved visiting with all of you on the phone, in your home, and at many events. Also, thank you to so many who donated and volunteered whether those people lived in the district or not.

Let's continue to work to make Jackson and White Counties great places to live and work. I will continue my work with Big Brothers/Big Sisters, the Substance Abuse Prevention Committee, and the like. "There's only one thing that can guarantee our failure, and that's if we quit.” We will not quit. Let's visit soon. Please feel free to email me (lj@ljbryant.com) or call me (870-376-4458).

Election Day tomorrow-Tuesday June 10

Please early vote for me today. For Jackson County voters-early voting is at the Village Mall until 4:30 pm down from Village Grill. For White County voters-early voting is at the County Courthouse. Tomorrow- Tuesday June 10th, you can vote at your normal polling location. If you are unsure about your polling location please let me know (lj@ljbryant.com) or call your county clerk: (870) 523-7420 for Jackson County Clerk & (501) 279-6204 for the White County Clerk.

We need more better paying jobs and we need to work to secure affordable healthcare for everyone. We were endorsed by the Arkansas Education Association; so, education is also at the heart of the campaign. The turnout may be slim and every vote will be crucial.

Early voting underway

You can early vote now thru Friday and then again on Monday the 9th until 6pm I believe. Early voting in Jackson County is being held at the Village Mall. Early voting in White County is located inside the courthouse. Please go early vote for me.

We need more jobs and we need to reduce the cost of healthcare. I'm ready to go to work on day 1 as the only candidate with legislative experience. We were endorsed by the Arkansas Education Association; so education is also at the heart of the campaign. Check out our website at http://www.blogger.com/.

Our second radio ad

http://www.ljbryant.com/radio-ad2.mp3

We're in the runoff...thank you!

Early voting starts June 3 and the runoff is June 10th. We need your vote to go to work on Day 1 to fight for better paying jobs and to secure affordable healthcare for everyone.

Newport citizen renamed to board by Governor Beebe

Kaneaster Hodges, Newport, reappointed to the Arkansas Higher Education Coordinating Board. Appointment expires May 1, 2014.

See: "http://www.governor.arkansas.gov/newsroom/index.php?do:newsDetail=1&news_id=459"

Listen to our radio ad

http://www.ljbryant.com/radio-ad.wav
Listen to our radio ad.

Early Voting starts Monday

I ask for your vote. I'm the only candidate with legislative experience. I want to go to work to fight for more higher paying jobs and to secure affordable healthcare for everyone.

You can vote starting Monday May 5th. Early voting in Jackson County happens in the Village Mall. In White County, you can early vote at the County Courthouse.

Our TV Spot

It is up see www.ljbryant.com. It is on the main page.

Nursing students pick up trash in Newport

"NEWPORT (KAIT) - 45 senior ASU nursing students stepped out of the classroom and hit the streets of Newport to clean up. "

Video coverage at: "http://www.kait8.com/global/story.asp?s=8223863"

Fayetteville Shale employing more Arkansans

"LITTLE ROCK - Now that drilling in the Fayetteville Shale play has been under way for more than two years, a larger percentage of Chesapeake Energy Corp.'s jobs on drilling rig crews are filled by Arkansans, a company official said Tuesday."

Full story at: "http://www.arkansasnews.com/archive/2008/04/23/News/346030.html"

Trial in Newport

"NEWPORT, AR (KAIT) -- A Randolph County man convicted of murdering a Dalton family almost ten years ago was back before a judge on Monday."

Video coverage at: "http://www.kait8.com/global/story.asp?s=8205222"

Gas Prices

I read this online from a legislative website: " In December, 2002, regular unleaded was $1.17 in Arkansas, so the price has tripled in 64 months. If it triples again in the next 64 months, regular unleaded will be in $10.38 per gallon in 2013. "

Jacksonport Flooding pictures

I believe these are pictures of the highway at the park before it went underwater again. "Source: http://www.rivercountry967.com/"

Jonesboro Sun on our flooding

"In Newport and Jackson County the White River remained at its highest in several years as excess water from Norfork and Bull Shoals lakes, both of which flow into the White, had to be released over the weekend. With both the Mississippi and Arkansas rivers at high levels, there is no place for the White and its tributaries to drain into, and that is one of the major causes of the flooding that is occurring along its length, officials say. "

Story at: "http://www.jonesborosun.com/story.php?ID=32573"

Homelessness in Arkansas

"Gulf Coast residents who evacuated to Arkansas after hurricanes in August and September 2005 pushed the Natural State to the top of the list nationally in terms of the size of its homeless population, according to a report prepared for Congress. "

Full story at: "http://www.nwanews.com/adg/News/222853/"

Oprah's show comes to North Arkansas

"ABC, The Oprah Winfrey Show, and KAIT have teamed up to bring 'Oprah's Big Give' to a Region 8 community which fell victim to the February 5 tornado outbreak."

Full story at: "http://www.kait8.com/global/Story.asp?s=8159093"

KAIT reports on our flooding

"JACKSON COUNTY, AR (KAIT) -- Over the past several weeks the standing water in Region 8 has gone up and down. With more rain on the way, Jackson County is taking drastic steps including closing down a major highway to try to slow the flooding in the area."

Full story and video coverage at: "http://www.kait8.com/global/story.asp?s=8143905"

McDaniel takes payday lenders out....

"LITTLE ROCK - Almost all of the payday lending operations ordered by the state to cease illegal lending practices have said they will comply, Attorney General Dustin McDaniel announced Tuesday."

Full story at: "http://www.arkansasnews.com/archive/2008/04/09/News/345897.html"

Jonesboro Sun on our flooding

""Jackson County Judge Kerry Tharpe of Tuckerman said the levees throughout his county are holding up in spite of the heavy rains last week. Tharpe said the county has been helped in recent days by officials with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

“They have been helping us. They are doing hourly monitoring of the levees,” Tharpe said. Tharpe said the county has also stockpiled more than 7,000 sandbags that will be used if and when the waters begin to rise again. Also, Tharpe said his county continues to see water covering county roads throughout the county. “We have water on (Highway) 14 and Arkansas 37 from Cord to Tuckerman,” Tharpe said. “We will just have to wait until the water goes down before we can repair the county roads.” "

Full story at: "http://www.jonesborosun.com/story.php?ID=32456"

Central Arkansas storm damage

See more Central Arkansas storm damage at: "http://www.arktimes.com/blogs/arkansasblog/2008/04/storm_photos.aspx#more"

Town Hall Meeting

The first picture is from the day time activities. We had a MADD speaker for Newport Jr. High, Newport Sr. High, and Tuckerman. The second picture is the great ladies of Junior Auxiliary who helped make our Town Hall evening meeting happen last night. (Disregard the dates on the pictures)

White County reacts to severance tax

"By Warren WatkinsTuesday, April 1, 2008 6:58 PM CDT
The Daily Citizen
Royalty owners in White County have reacted to the news that the Arkansas legislature has approved a hike in the severance tax on natural gas produced by wells all over the state. "

Full story at: "http://www.thedailycitizen.com/articles/2008/04/02/news/top_stories/top01.txt"

Governor Beebe's visit

Here is a picture of Governor Beebe's tour of Jacksonport.

Political Cartoons: funny, sad, and true

Flooding Update II

"JACKSON COUNTY, AR (KAIT) -- Several roads all across Region 8 have been underwater for over a week. Now some of the flood waters are starting to go down and are leaving behind damaged roads. "

Video coverage at: "http://www.kait8.com/global/story.asp?s=8086178"

Flooding update

"Jackson County reports In Jackson County, at least 53 houses were damaged, according to Jackson County Judge Kerry Tharpe. About 47 roads were damaged and at least 10 roads were still under water. The American Red Cross has set up a shelter at Jacksonport. Water on Arkansas Highway 14 between Newport and Oil Trough is clearing, Tharpe said. The Black River in Pocahontas dropped a foot Wednesday to about 24 feet, and most of the streets in town were clear, Crocker said. Several families and as many as nine senior citizens were still displaced due to the flooding, he added. Despite the drop, the river is still seven feet above its flood stage."

Full article at: "http://www.jonesborosun.com/story.php?ID=32273"

Senate election dispute update

"LITTLE ROCK - The chairman of the St. Francis County Election Commission denied wrongdoing Tuesday in a disputed 2006 Senate runoff election in East Arkansas."

Full story at: "http://www.arkansasnews.com/archive/2008/03/26/News/345725.html"

Historic Arkansas election dispute

"LITTLE ROCK - In a first for the state Legislature, a Senate committee is scheduled to begin a public hearing Tuesday to decide whether an East Arkansas senator was legally elected to his seat."

Full story at: "http://www.arkansasnews.com/archive/2008/03/25/News/345711.html"

Ethanol presents a unique fire risk

"The alternative fuel flowing into the nation’s gas tanks is presenting a new challenge for Arkansas firefighters. "

Full story at: "http://www.nwanews.com/adg/News/220730/"

Spotlight on another White County legislative race

Betts vs. Reeves in November

Saturday, March 22, 2008 8:32 PM CDT

No incumbent in race for state rep.By Warren Watkins

The Daily CitizenWith current state representative David Evans term limited, the race for House District 50, which includes Searcy, will see Democrat Monty Betts against Republican Kyle Reeves.

Full story at: "http://www.thedailycitizen.com/articles/2008/03/23/news/top_stories/top01.txt"

Flooding

"Volunteers from area fire departments are helping stack sandbags along the levee wall to prevent the seeping water from escaping. Arkansas Governor Mike Beebe arrived Friday afternoon in Jackson County to survey the situation saying that the people are very resilient and they will be all right. "

Text story at: "http://www.kait8.com/global/story.asp?s=8053706" & "http://www.kait8.com/global/story.asp?s=8053639"

Newport flooding on Channel 8

"NEWPORT, AR (KAIT) -- Residents all across Region 8 are experiencing heavy flooding due to Tuesday night's storms. However, one Jackson County neighborhood that hasn't been flooded at all is now dealing with a surprise."


Full story and video coverage at: "http://www.kait8.com/global/story.asp?s=8048635"

Jackson County Bridge

"Cache River National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) is developing a Compatibility Determination regarding a proposed bridge replacement and minor expansion of right-of-way (ROW) for Jackson County Road 51. This use is proposed by the Arkansas Highway & Transportation Department and Jackson County."

Full Story at: "http://www.newportindependent.com/articles/2008/03/21/news/05.txt"

NEA Flooding

"As of Wed­nesday night, Arkansas 14, from Batesville to the Jackson County line, was flooded and closed, Arkansas highway officials said in a posting on their Web site.

Arkansas 37, 226 and 224 near Tuckerman were closed because of rising waters, Jackson County Judge Kerry Tharpe said. "

Full story at: "http://www.jonesborosun.com/story.php?ID=32168"

McDaniel wants to shut down pay day lenders

LITTLE ROCK - Payday lenders throughout Arkansas must shut down immediately or face the likelihood of lawsuits, Attorney General Dustin McDaniel said Tuesday.

Full story at: "http://www.arkansasnews.com/archive/2008/03/19/News/345648.html"

Donkey Basketball

This picture is not very clear. This is me riding a donkey and trying to pick up one dollar bills off the floor. We could not get off the donkey or touch the floor. It was fun.

Beebe strikes a deal

"LITTLE ROCK – Governor Mike Beebe announced today that he is contacting legislators to determine support for an agreed increase of the severance tax on natural gas in Arkansas. The agreement will create an ongoing roads program for Arkansas without increasing natural-gas rates for residential Arkansas customers. Discussions ended yesterday when representatives of the natural-gas industry agreed to Governor Beebe's proposal."

Full story at: http://www.arkansas.gov/governor/newsroom/index.phpdo:newsDetail=1&news_id=402"

Beebe & Sheffield Nelson

LITTLE ROCK (AP) - A former gas-industry executive who's offering a proposal for November's ballot to boost the state's severance tax on natural gas says gas companies would be wise to return to the bargaining table with Governor Beebe.

Full story at: "http://www.kait8.com/global/story.asp?s=7985954

Yard Sign time

If you want a sign call me (870-376-4458) or shoot me an email (lj@ljbryant.com)

Jackson County political filings yesterday

Jackson County Justice of the Peace, District 6 — Greg Anselmi, R-Bradford. Justice of the Peace, District 4 — John O. Casteel, R-Newport. Swifton City Council, Position 1 — Dennis Neal, D. Swifton City Council, Position 2 — Nettie Jane Thompson, D

Story from: http://www.jonesborosun.com/story.php?ID=31965

West Memphis+ban on toy guns?

WEST MEMPHIS (KAIT)-"It's every police officers worst nightmare to realize that you've taken a life, and it was a toy gun," said Assistant Police Chief Mike Allen.

Full Story at:

http://www.kait8.com/global/story.asp?s=7972215

Welcome to Arkansas

Snow in March?

Jacksonport State Park+Channel 8

http://www.kait8.com/Global/story.asp?S=7954786

KAIT's story of yesterday's lecture at Jacksonport. I was there and enjoyed it.

Filing day

Today we filed!

Thank you friends

Here is our most recent press release about our great fundraising news for February. This is all thanks to all of you and your help.:

"Democrat L. J. Bryant, of Newport, candidate for the Arkansas State House of Representatives District 58, has raised $20,430.90 in contributions. This is one of the biggest fundraising totals in the state for any House race. This amount is 300% greater than the amount the 2002 candidates combined reported raising for their efforts to fill this open seat. Bryant has $20,430.90 cash on hand. He has 116 donors. This is 8 times the previous precedent. "

Senior Citizens+Bills

http://www.jonesborosun.com/story.php?ID=31811

The Jonesboro Sun did an article today on the high cost of heating for our senior citizens.

District Spotlight: Russell

As of the census[2] of 2000, there were 228 people, 103 households, and 64 families residing in the town. The population density was 419.2/km² (1,102.9/mi²). There were 116 housing units at an average density of 213.3/km² (561.1/mi²). The racial makeup of the town was 99.56% White and 0.44% Native American. 1.32% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

More info at: "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Russell%2C_Arkansas"

Aerospace Industry in Arkansas

"LITTLE ROCK - More than 5,000 aerospace and aviation jobs in Arkansas will need to be filled in the next decade, according to Arkansas Economic Development Commission officials who met Thursday with business and government officials to discuss ways to bolster the industry."

Full article at: "http://www.arkansasnews.com/archive/2008/02/22/News/345392.html"

Newport City Council+Music Heritage

NEWPORT — The Newport City Council passed a resolution Tuesday in support of a state grant proposal to promote the region’s musical history.

Full Story at: "http://www.jonesborosun.com/story.php?ID=31687"

Cuba+Arkansas

"LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (AP) -- The long-grain rice grown in Arkansas and across the Mid-South could dominate Cuban dinner tables and a potential market worth hundreds of millions of dollars if the U.S. lifts a trade embargo against the island nation."

Full story at: http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/A/AR_CASTRO_RICE_AROL-?SITE=ARMOU&SECTION=STATE&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT&CTIME=2008-02-19-12-15-34

Beebe speaks out on toxic trailers

LITTLE ROCK, AR - Governor Beebe today took back some of his praise for the federal response to recent tornadoes in Arkansas. Beebe says the government embarrased itself by purchasing mobile homes now found to have high levels of formaldehyde.

Full story at: "http://www.kait8.com/global/story.asp?s=7889080"

Grubbs 50's night

Keri and I had a great time tonight at the Grubbs 50's fundraiser. Keri sang. We got to visit with our good friends. My dad graduated from Grubbs and I grew up outside of Grubbs.

Pryor may have opponent

LITTLE ROCK (AP) -- A Little Rock health care executive who lost the Republican primary for an Arkansas congressional seat in 2006 is considering running against Democratic Sen. Mark Pryor, the state GOP chairman said.

Full story at: "http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/A/AR_SENATE_FORMICOLA_AROL-?SITE=ARMOU&SECTION=STATE&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT&CTIME=2008-02-15-02-01-58"

FEMA to use Hope trailers for disaster relief

"(Media-Newswire.com) - WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency ( FEMA ) will deploy mobile homes from its Hope, Ark. facility for use as disaster housing in support of the recent tornadoes in Arkansas and Tennessee. The mobile homes will be used to provide temporary housing for eligible applicants who suffered damages to or losses of their homes until the residents are better able to make other, more permanent arrangements."

Full story at: "http://media-newswire.com/release_1061099.html"

Asa+2010

"LITTLE ROCK (AP) -- More than a year after his failed gubernatorial bid, former congressman Asa Hutchinson is chairing a Republican committee that's preparing for the 2010 elections and researching the campaign finance reports of state Democratic officeholders.

Full Story at: "http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/A/AR_HUTCHINSON_2010_AROL-?SITE=ARMOU&SECTION=STATE&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT&CTIME=2008-02-13-02-02-12"

"Jaws" actor dies in Arkansas

Roy Scheider, a two-time Academy Award nominee best remembered as the reluctant, shark-hunting police chief in "Jaws," died yesterday. He was 75 years old and lived in Sag Harbor.Scheider had suffered from multiple myeloma for years and died in Little Rock, Ark., from a staph infection, according to his wife, Brenda Seimer.

http://www.newsday.com/entertainment/news/celebrity/ny-etscheider0211,0,2284939.story

Senator Lincoln endorses Senator Clinton

"LITTLE ROCK (AP) -- U.S. Sen. Blanche Lincoln announced Thursday that she was backing Hillary Rodham Clinton's Democratic presidential campaign, two days after Arkansas handed its former first lady a decisive victory in the state's presidential primary."

see:
http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/A/AR_CLINTON_LINCOLN_ENDORSEMENT_AROL-?SITE=ARMOU&SECTION=STATE&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT&CTIME=2008-02-07-13-18-17

Election Results

Jackson (100%)
2,139 (83%) Clinton
353 (14%) Obama

Jackson (100%)
612 (68%)-Huckabee
200 (22%)-McCain
17 (2%)-Paul
51 (6%)-Romney

White County results are still not posted online.

source: http://www.arelections.org/index.php?ac:show:cty_info=1&elecid=151&countyid=34

Don't forget to vote today

Today is the Presidential Primary here in the Natural State. See https://www.voterview.ar-nova.org/ if you are unsure about where to vote.

Arkansas Travelers visit Newport and Chelsea visits Fayetteville

"JONESBORO — What the Arkansas Travelers did for Hillary Rodham Clinton in New Hampshire last month, they hope to accomplish in their home state this week: Help the former first lady score a Democratic primary victory. "

Full story at: http://www.jonesborosun.com/story.php?ID=31403

The Travelers visited our church yesterday before canvassing Newport.

Also, Chelsea Clinton visited Fayetteville yesterday: http://www.nwaonline.net/articles/2008/02/04/news/020408azchelsea.txt

KAIT highlights Newport's growth

"NEWPORT (KAIT)-Newport is a city on the move, but it's taken years and a lot of hard work by the residents to make it happen."

See: "http://www.kait8.com/global/story.asp?s=7810838" for video coverage

Campaign Update

We are now required to file monthly reports regarding our fundraising. I want to share my results with you. www.sos.arkansas.gov has the full reports. I will have a new press release on my website soon giving an extended version of the following:

""Democrat L. J. Bryant, of Newport, candidate for the Arkansas State House of Representatives District 58, has raised $19,080.90 in contributions. This amount is 285% greater than the amount 2002 candidates combined reported raising for their efforts to fill the open seat. Bryant has $19,080.90 cash on hand.

In making the announcement, Bryant said “I am both grateful and humbled by this show of local support in Jackson and White County, as well as from friends around the state. This kind of early support represents my ability to work with others and to get things done for our communities. While contributions represent support, votes get you elected. I want to take my message of Putting Experience and Vision to work to every voter of District 58.”"

President Clinton's visit update

Rep. Steve Harrelson reports on his website:

"President Bill Clinton will be in town tomorrow for a speech on behalf of the Clinton campaign. Arkansas High School Cafetorium. 1500 Jefferson Avenue. Texarkana, Arkansas. 1:00 p.m."

Also, Harrelson reports: "He will also speak in Little Rock and Pine Bluff tomorrow."

Snow is here

11:30 AM


9:29 AM

Photos from Governor's visit

http://governor.arkansas.gov/newsroom/gallery.php?do:showPhotoList=1&gallery_id=209

This link has more pictures from the Governor's visit to Newport last week.

Early Voting

Early voting for the Presidential primary is taking place at the Village Mall in Jackson County.

President Clinton may campaign for Hillary Friday in Arkansas

Arkansas Times reports:

"Clinton, Part 2 UPDATE
President Clinton -- we're talking about Bill -- MAY stump for Hillary in Hot Springs on Friday. The Convention and Visitors Bureau there says Clinton will speak in front of the County Courthouse at 1:30 p.m., according to some buzz around HS, but the Clinton campaign says that appearance is not yet confirmed."

see www.arktimes.com/arkansasblog

Super Tuesday Polls

http://www.usaelectionpolls.com/2008/super-duper-tuesday-polls.html

This link has Super Tuesday polls.

Wolves to be Arkansas State's New Mascot

"JONESBORO, AR (KAIT) - The Arkansas State University Mascot Selection Committee has passed a motion to make the Wolves the school's next mascot. "

Hillary Clinton will be in Arkansas tomorrow

From Arkansas News: "LITTLE ROCK - Democratic presidential candidate Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton, D-N.Y., will hold a town hall meeting in North Little Rock on Wednesday, six days ahead of the state's Feb. 5 primary, her campaign staff said Monday."

The picture is from Governor Beebe's endorsement of Senator Clinton in mid 2007.

FOOTAGE FROM THE EVENT: http://arkansasmatters.com/media_player.php?media_id=24477#

Governor Beebe waiting on special session

LITTLE ROCK, AR - Governor Mike Beebe says he won't call a special session to consider raising the state's severance tax on natural gas unless he gets a commitment from the majority of legislators needed to pass such a hike.

Groundbreaking, Ribbon Cutting and Economic Development Announcement

The groundbreaking was held today for the new Transportation Technology Center. ASU Newport has one of the premier truck driving programs in the country. This will only enhance the program. Special guests today included Governor Beebe, Senator Jack Critcher, and Dr. Wyatt (ASU System President). Many other guests were on hand from the State Highway Department and the State Economic Development Commission.

Jon Chadwell shared many pieces of great news. Look for the TV news tonight and print news soon for the details. The details include a new hotel, more jobs at our local state prison, and the opening of a new Sears. Also, we took a bus tour to see the new rail spur.

See video footage at: http://www.kait8.com/global/story.asp?s=7776620

See print coverage at: http://www.jonesborosun.com/story.php?ID=31277

State Police seeking applicants

"For anyone interested in getting a job in law enforcement, Arkansas State Police headquarters in Jonesboro was the place to be Tuesday evening. "

Full Story at: "http://www.kait8.com/global/story.asp?s=7759553"

State Police will have a town hall meeting February 5 in Newport, Troop B headquarters, 3200 Hwy. 67, 6 p.m.

MLK Day

I attended the AME MLK service today in Newport. It was a great service. Judge Barbara King spoke.

College Savings

"LITTLE ROCK -- Governor Mike Beebe, along with members of the Arkansas 529 Committee and the Aspiring Scholars Advisory Committee, today announced a new college savings’ program, the Aspiring Scholars Matching Grant. This new program makes matching funds available for working families who wish to invest in their children’s future by investing in Arkansas’s 529 plan. "

Full release at: "http://www.governor.arkansas.gov/newsroom/index.php?do:newsDetail=1&news_id=363"

Do toy guns look too real?

"Rep. Otis Davis, D-Earle, said his proposal would require that plastic guns be painted in less realistic colors."

Full story at: "http://www.arkansasnews.com/archive/2008/01/15/News/344888.html"

Your thoughts welcome.

Wills elected as speaker

"LITTLE ROCK (AP) -- Rep. Robbie Wills was elected Monday as the speaker of Arkansas' House for next year's legislative session, promising to be an inclusive leader of the 100-member body but offering few details on his agenda."

Full story at: "http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/A/AR_HOUSE_SPEAKER_AROL-?SITE=ARMOU&SECTION=STATE&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT&CTIME=2008-01-14-14-29-34"

Arkansas ranks 8th in education by recent analysis

"LITTLE ROCK - Arkansas ranked 8th in the nation in a new report that evaluates the quality of states' educational policies and student achievement, state Education Commissioner Ken James told lawmakers Wednesday."

Full Article at: "http://www.arkansasnews.com/archive/2008/01/10/News/344770.html"

We should be proud of Arkansas' advancement nationally in public education. We can and must do more especially in our rural delta schools.

ASU Newport breaking ground on new building

Story from: http://www.kait8.com/global/story.asp?s=7592503

" NEWPORT, AR - Arkansas State University's Newport campus and the Newport Economic Development Commission will conduct a groundbreaking ceremony on January 25 for the ASU-Newport Technology Center. The ceremony will also feature a ribbon-cutting event for the Industrial Development Road & Rail project.

Governor Mike Beebe will be attending the event, which begins at 11:30 a.m. at 7648 Victory Boulevard in Newport."

Company D leaves Newport

"NEWPORT - It was a day of tears and smiles and hugs as the men and women of D company loaded up the buses and departed for their year-long deployment to Iraq. "

Full Story at: "http://www.kait8.com/global/story.asp?s=7590255"

Domestic Violence in Arkansas

"JONESBORO — Arkansas ranks first in the nation for domestic violence murders of black women and third for Caucasian women. "

Full Story at: "http://www.jonesborosun.com/story.php?ID=30982"

Senator Critcher, Vickie Critcher, and I worked on this issue this past legislative session. I was honored when Jayne Ann Kita made comments about this on my website:

"LJ Bryant was instrumental in working to obtain funding for domestic violence programs in Arkansas. He provided assistance and coordination of efforts that resulted in $400,000 for the Domestic Peace Fund, supporting domestic violence services across the state.

Jayne Ann Kita
Executive Director Arkansas Coalition Against Domestic Violence"

Much much more can and should be done. This is not that much money and money does not solve everything. It treats the problem; however, much more needs to be done to prevent the problem.

Northeast Arkansas political experts weigh in on Iowa

"JONESBORO — Former Gov. Mike Huckabee’s sudden rise to the top of this year’s Republican presidential field via Thursday’s Iowa caucus victory came as no surprise to one-time gubernatorial candidate and Jonesboro resident Woody Freeman, who said he encouraged him to jump into national politics. "

Full Article at: "http://www.jonesborosun.com/story.php?ID=30966"

Here is to 2007

Thanks to you, I raised $17,630.90 in contributions during 2007. This amount is greater than what both 2002 candidates reported raising for their efforts to fill the open seat---by more than 250%.

I am both grateful and humbled by this show of local support in Jackson and White county, as well as from friends around the state. This kind of early support represents my ability to work with others and to get things done for our communities. While contributions represent support, votes get you elected. I want to take my message of Putting Experience and Vision to work to every voter of District 58.

Full Release at: "http://www.ljbryant.com/press-01-02-2008.html"