Vol. 2, No. 23
Thursday, June 25, 2020
Motorcycle Cannonball to tear through Arkadelphia this Fall with Mayor in tow
Motorcycle Cannonball is a world famous trek through the country. This year, it’s passing through Arkadelphia with the help of Mayor Scott Byrd. By Pete Tubbs Interim Editor in Chief
While there are a lot of things that come through Arkadelphia, some events are definitely more niche than others. In Sept. one of the most hardcore sporting events in the world is pulling right up to Slim & Shorty’s. Dr. Scott Byrd started riding motorcycles when he was in college. “I got into the antique stuff probably twenty years ago.” Turns out, twenty years ago was a great time for him to start reveling in the craft because the first Motorcycle Cannonball was looming right around the corner. Lonnie Isam Jr. came up with the idea of getting a few of his friends together to ride across the country in 2010. Since then, Motorcycle Cannonball has become legendary in the sports world. The tradition takes its namesake from Cannonball Baker who was a regular participant in coast-to-coast land speed record competitions. It occurs every two years. The first year, only about sixty people took on the epic journey. “Those were the pioneers of the Cannonball,” Dr. Byrd said. “They’ve had it every even numbered year after that.” While Dr. Byrd didn’t take part in the first two events, he began his participation in 2014. He rode a 1931 Harley. “In 2016 I rode a 1916 Harley,” Byrd explained. “In 2018 I drove a support truck and in 2020 I’m riding my 16 again.” While Byrd has been involved with the tradition almost since its inception, it hasn’t been an easy task getting it to come through Arkadelphia. “The guy that is the owner and promoter of it is a real good friend of mine,” he said, “it came through Hot Springs in 2010, and I’ve been trying to get him to bring it back through Arkansas again.” “I rode across Europe with him last Summer, and about two or three months before he called me and asked ‘Can your town handle an overnight stop?’” Byrd explained that overnight stops “are a really big deal.” Anywhere from 1,000 to 2,000 people will be there. 300 to 400 of
these people will actually be participating in the ride while the rest will be spectators. The Cannonball has been called the “most challenging, most difficult motorcycle endurance run in the world,” according to Byrd. “It usually takes about sixteen or seventeen days.” This year, the group will start at Sault St. Marie in Michigan and will end up in South Padre Island. “It’s gonna be between 3,000 to 4,000 miles this year.” The qualifications for the bike and the route taken differ every year. “You can have any style or make of bike,” Byrd said, “it just has to do with the year.” 2010 saw bikes from 1915 and earlier participate while this year is from 1929 and earlier. In 2016, to stay with a centinneal theme, each bike had to be from 1916 and previous. It may sound strange that such an old piece of machinery be required to participate in such an arduous task, and that’s something that Byrd and co. recognize. “The antique motorcycle world is a small world,” he said, “and you get to know the people within those circles really well. You call a buddy and say ‘hey I need a generator or transmission case or whatever.’ The antique world is small on its own and the older you get with the bikes, the smaller that world gets,” he said. Just how small is that circle? Only about three hundred people have participated in the ten years since the inception of the Motorcycle Cannonball. “Within the Cannonball family, you know that this guy’s an Indian guy and this guy’s a Harley guy,” Byrd explains. “You learn who to call for different parts and if you can’t find it you make it.” In terms of how the run actually works, the group leaves their overnight stay at about 7:30 a.m., and they leave by classes. Class one contains the slower bikes, class two contains either single or multiple cylinder and single and multiple speed transmission, and class three contains either multiple cylinder or multiple speed. “Those are the big fast
boys,” Byrd said, “those class three’s.” Before the staggered starts, each rider gets a route sheet which shows exactly where they’re supposed to travel. “We cannot use GPS’s,” said Byrd.”There’s a specific route we’re supposed to take and it literally directs us across the country one turn at a time. If we leave from a parking lot it’ll tell us ‘turn right outta the parking lot, stop at the stop sign, turn left, go to the red light turn right...” One person has the designation of “road master” who details these routes in incredibly specific minutiae. They’ll run the course once, in a car, then run through it again, then they’ll write everything out within a hundredth of a mile. This is before they ride the next day’s route again the day before the riders leave for the next driving tenure. The route is essentially ridden three times before the riders roll through it. “We’ll be lucky if we end up two miles from that,” Byrd laughed. “We just have to watch for landmarks.” As mentioned earlier, bikes aren’t the only vehicles travelling these routes. Support trucks are also essential to the journey. There are two different
support groups. There is the official Cannonball support team which is usually a truck and a van, both pulling a trailer. The official support van will stay behind the last rider. If that rider doesn’t keep the exact pace for the day or if they break down, their bike gets loaded up and the rider stays on the support truck for the rest of the day. Each rider usually has their own support crew as well. That crew takes a different route and waits for the riders when they reach their next destination. At each destination there is a sponsored dinner. For instance, at Arkadelphia’s stop, the bike’s will be parked at Slim & Shorty’s and the riders will be fed at the fire station. “The bikes have to be displayed until a certain time,” Byrd said, “ it’s usually until six-o’clock.” At the strike of the clock, the bikes will take off and head to the overnight destination, which will be at the hotels in Caddo Valley come Sept. “Then you gotta work on the bike to get it ready for the next day,” Byrd said. “Usually there is a minimum of two hours for general maintenance every night, and that’s if nothing breaks. If something breaks during
the day, you may be up all night.” The journey is certainly a sight to behold, and the best way for citizens to get their fill of motorized glory is to sight the riders on their stops. “Seeing the bikes on display here is cool because all the riders gotta do is eat and relax. When they get to the hotels, some people will be changing tires, some will be changing oil, and some of them will be pulling motors out and doing complete rebuilds in the parking lot.” While Byrd acknowledges that there are many good biker films such as “Easy Rider,” one work of media has the most in common with the Cannonball Run. “You talk about doing MacGuyver stuff,” he said,” that’s what this is. It’s the ultimate MacGuyver test for motorcycles. You wouldn’t believe the way these things come in.” Dr. Byrd has some personal experience when it comes to this statement. “In ‘14 I finished many days with duct tape and bailing wire,” Byrd laughed. According to Byrd, it’s an exciting sentiment that the run is coming through our state. While renowned in the motorcycle world, it’s important to Arkadelphia as well. “It is a huge deal to get
Photo courtesy of Hemmings
it here,” he said. “There are a lot of city’s that bid for overnight stops. They’ll roll out the red carpet and say ‘please come to our town.’” It’s not an overnight deal. In fact, it takes quite some time to make steps toward bringing the Motorcycle Cannonball to any town. “I’ve been trying to get [the promoter] to come through here,” Byrd said. “He finally said ‘we want to come through your town.’” The route is planned almost a year in advance. “Whenevet this Cannonball is over, everybody will be chomping at the bit to get their bikes ready for the 22 Cannonball,” he said. “It’s always a big secret.” One thing prospective riders always have their eye on is the year of the required bike. “We’re riding in September,” Byrd said, “[the year of the bike] is usually announced around January. That’s when they’ll start saying ‘here are the qualifications of the bike.’” Just finding a bike that’s near, or over, one hundred years old may seem like quite a feat. That’s not even taking into account how much work has to be done after one is located. “A lot of guys will build brand-new bikes,” Dr. Byrd said. “I can’t build another bike.”
Investigation continues into June 9 shooting in Delight By John Schirmer Nashville Leader
There are still no charges filed and the investigation continues into the shooting at Delight the night of June 9. Three of the people involved - Dionne Coulter, 32, of Prescott; and Debbie VanCamp, 47, and Jeff VanCamp, 51, both of Antoine - were scheduled to make their first court appearances Monday but Pike County Circuit Clerk Sabrina Williams reported that Coulter’s court date has been moved to July 20 while the VanCamps’ date has been pushed back to July 13. Coulter is expected to charged with felony second-degree battery while
the VanCamps’ charges are expected to be felony breaking or entering and terroristic threatening and misdemeanor charges of third-degree battery and obstructing governmental operations. Coulter, 32, of Prescott, who is black, was arrested the night of June 9 for allegedly shooting Dillon VanCamp, 27, who is white, of Antoine, in the lower leg during an incident in the parking lot of the Delight E-Z Mart. VanCamp was transported from the scene with a non-life threatening injury. Coulter was arrested without incident and placed in a patrol car on the scene, which quickly grew to a large crowd with numerous
law agencies converging at the convenience store. The shooting also touched off a week of racial tension in the area and resulted in a peaceful protest being staged at Delight the following Saturday. Prosecuting Attorney Bryan Chesshir said last week the incident apparently began earlier that day in Antoine between Coulter and Dillon VanCamp and Brian VanCamp, 22, also of Antoine. Coulter was reportedly visiting a friend in Antoine and had gone to Delight to fuel up when the three men crossed paths again. During the chaotic scene at the store following the shooting, Debbie VanCamp
and Jeff VanCamp allegedly entered the back seat of the patrol unit where Coulter was being held and assaulted him. Chesshir also said last week charges are also pending against Dillon and Brian VanCamp for their involvement in the incident. Debbie and Jeff VanCamp are also scheduled for a first appearance Monday on the felony charges of breaking or entering and terroristic threatening and misdemeanor charges of third-degree battery and obstructing governmental operations. The couple was also released from the county jail sometime last week.
2 News
Thursday, June 25, 2020
Arkadelphia Dispatch
Gurdon Mayor Update By Sherry Kelley Gurdon Mayor
We put over 4 and 1/2 inches in the rain gauge Sun. through Tues. Good thing we worked last week on general mowing and on the cemetery. Summer is officially here and we have opened up a few things in Gurdon. There is going to be a Baby Go-Devils Football Camp at the field at the Gurdon City Park on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Any upcoming second through sixth grade
students in the Gurdon and surrounding area can attend. There will be refreshments afterward. Wear your shorts, shirts, tennis or turf shoes and cleats. Thank you to Quincey Jones and others for this event. The football field is located behind the tennis courts. We have the playground at the park open and of course the lake is open for fishing. The US Army Corps of Engineers has lowered the level of the Gurdon Lake a little bit for some spillway
repairs so bring your rods and reels for pier fishing and even boating. There are a couple of events booked at The Market On Main for July. If things in Gurdon stay safe we will add more bookings for the venue. It is good to be opening up a little bit. The Corona Virus has been so intense since March. We must keep our guard up, however some return to normalcy is comforting.
Crimes and courts update By Ayanna Williams Crime Reporter
On June 10, the Clark County Circuit Court held the first appearance for the case filed against William Jaggars of Caddo Valley. Jaggars is facing charges for two counts of possession of methamphetamine, as well as possession of drug paraphernalia. Both counts are class D felonies. Jaggars was first contacted by officers on June 8 at the EconoLodge in Caddo Valley. He was originally contacted to take back possession of his vehicle. However, after the officers came across a strong odor of marijuana, they came across the drug paraphernalia and a small bag of methamphetamine during the conducted
search of the motel. After being arrested and transported to the sheriff’s office, Jaggars admitted to allowing others to store the methamphetamine in his room, as well as using methamphetamine on the previous night. The bail bond for Jaggars has now been set at $20,000. The next court appearance for arraignment is set for July 7 in the Circuit Courtroom. State vs. Deaton: Jury trial date is set for next month On June 12, the pretrial hearing for the capital murder case against Bryson Deaton of Gurdon was held. The jury trial was previously set to be held on July 13; during this hearing however, the jury trial is now
set to begin on July 14 at 9:00 a.m. As of June 15, the State has filed the denied motions in limine that were requested by the defendant and his attorney. These motions include requesting the exclusion of recorded jail phone calls, evidence of previous threats towards the victim, and evidence of alleged drug dealing that occurred before the murder. The defendant filed these motions due to his belief that the jury may be misled and that there may be unfair treatment from the jury. The next pretrial hearing will be held on June 30 at 10:00 a.m. in the Circuit courtroom.
Gov. Hutchinson “The Wait for Nursing Home Visits is Almost Over”
LITTLE ROCK – We set a goal to test every resident and staff member in longterm-care in June, and today I’m pleased to say that nursing homes, and assisted-living and residentialcare facilities will be able to resume limited family visits and other activities on July 1 if they have complied with the public health guidelines of the Arkansas Department of Health. This is an important step. The residents of nursing homes have been cut off from direct visits with family and friends for three months. This isolation is very difficult on our loved ones, and because of our testing and other measures in place, we are ready to have visitors again. In terms of testing, as of this week, we have tested over 19,000 of our nursing home residents and staff with only 150 positive cases. This indicates we are doing a good job of protecting some of our most vulnerable Arkansans. Many of our nursing homes are completely free of COVID-19. Arkansas’s rate
of positive cases is less than half the national average. The Arkansas Health Care Association is coordinating with the Arkansas Department of Health on the June initiative. Executive Director Rachel Bunch said that for the comfort of the elderly, the testers will use the least-invasive swab available. She points out that the increase in testing will initially produce an increase in the number of positive cases, but the testing will allow us to create a baseline to guide our decisions. She also said that a large number of patients who test positive don’t show any symptoms. A person with a positive test isn’t necessarily sick. We issued the directive that visitors would not be allowed into nursing homes on March 14. This decision hit close to home. A member of my own staff wasn’t allowed to visit her father. The directive included an endof-life exception for family members, so that she was allowed to put on personal protective equipment to see him before he passed.
During this time of isolation, the caregivers have assisted residents with window visits and internet visits. The family of Louis Strickland, an Army veteran, threw a party for his 100th birthday, but his family had to watch through a window at the Veterans Home. But nothing is as good as an in-person visit of a family member. We are close to our testing goal. The long wait for families and their loved ones in nursing homes is almost over.
Arkadelphia Dispatch Editor: Pete Tubbs arkadelphiadispatch@ gmail.com 870-230-5221 Calls will be returned. The Arkadelphia Dispatch is published weekly by Nashville Leader, Inc., 119 N. Main, Nashville, AR 71852.
Upcoming Events >>> <<< Clark County Sanitation will be closed on Friday, July 3rd for Independence Day Holiday. If you are a Clark County Sanitation customer and your normal trash day is on Friday, then we will pick up your trash on Monday, July 6th If you have any questions, please call us at 870-2467602. >>> <<< Arkadelphia Bands had planned to host its first-ever Mattress Sale Fundraiser from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat., April 18 at AHS, 401 High School Road, but that’s been postponed to Aug. 1. The fundraising sale will feature brands such as Simmons, Beautyrest, and more, with on-site mattresses priced up to 50% below retail. >>> <<< The Third Annual Comics Studies Society Conference will be hosted by Henderson State University from Aug. 5 to Aug. 9. The conference exists to bring together “scolars, artists, and other members of the international Comics Studies community” to discuss topics within the area of comics. Matthew J. Smith from Radford University and Randy Duncan from HSU are the organizers. Those interested can register at comicssociety.org. >>> <<< Mena plans to stage its 45 Annual Queen Wilhelmina Rod Run from Aug. 28-29 as street rods and hot rods descend on the town. The twoday event features a street dance and three chances for entrants to put their cars through their paces. For more information, visit https://www. queenwilhelminarodrun.com/. >>> <<< The Spring Hazardous Household Waste event that was scheduled for last Sat. was cancelled as a result of COVID-19 precautions. The Southwest Regional Solid Waste Management District will continue with the Fall Household Hazardous Waste event on Oct. 17. The Southwest Regional Solid Waste Management District is the planning board that oversees solid waste management for Clark, Garland, and Hot Spring Counties. In previous years, the district has hosted two annual Household Hazardous Waste events to offer citizens of each county the opportunity to dispose of hazardous waste that sanitation departments cannot pick up as part of routine trash pick-up. Expect more details closer to the event. Ongoing >>> <<< City Council meets every first and third Tues. of the month at 5:30 p.m. in Town Hall. >>> <<< Alcoholics Anonymous hosts two meetings a week in Arkadelphia. The meetings are open to anyone interested in AA’s program of recovery. The Arkadelphia Group meets at 7 p.m. every Tues. in the Sturgis Building at North 9 and Caddo Streets. For more information on the Arkadelphia Group Meetings, call 870-403-3001. The U-Turn Group meets at 7 p.m. every Thurs. on the front, upper level of Park Hill Baptist Church, 3163 Hollywood Road. For information on that group’s meetings, call 870-2302975 or 870-260-9277. >>> <<< Al-Anon meetings, designed to help family and friends affected by alcohol, are held three days a week in the Arkadelphia area: - Tues. at 7 p.m., Sturgis Building, corner of 9 and Caddo. 870-403-2019 - Thurs. at 6:30 p.m., Park Hill Baptist Church. 870-403-2019 - Fri. at noon, Clark County Library, 609 Caddo St., side door. 512-750-2292
Arkadelphia Dispatch
Thursday, June 25, 2020
33 state police recruits commissioned into service at graduation ceremony
LITTLE ROCK Thirty-three Arkansas State Police Trooper Recruits received their certified law enforcement certificates tonight during a graduation ceremony at the Arkansas State Capitol. The new troopers will report to their Highway Patrol Division assignments across the state next month. The recruits reported to the Arkansas State Police Training Academy at state police administrative headquarters January 26th this year. Since that time the recruits accumulated more than 1,000 hours of specialized classroom and practical training. Governor Asa Hutchinson, Jami Cook, Secretary of the Arkansas Department of Public Safety and Colonel Bill Bryant, Director of the Arkansas State Police each addressed the class during the ceremony. The recruits affirmed the Oath of Arkansas State Trooper to Judge Meredith B. Switzer of Hot Springs. Graduates of the Arkansas State Police 2020 Troop School are: Justin Parker, 33, 2020A Recruit Class Leader, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop K, Garland County. He is a graduate of Lake Hamilton High School, Southern Arkansas Tech and the American Military University. Trooper Parker served as recruit class leader. Jonathan Arnold, 31, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop I, Stone County. He is a graduate of Arkansas Education Alliance. Jacob Byrd, 24, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop A, Pulaski County. He is a graduate of Bryant High School and the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. Garrett Byrd, 23, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop D, Crittenden County. He is a graduate of Creekwood High School and John Gupton College in Tennessee. Maria Galan Duarte, 28, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop L, Washington County. She is a graduate of Northside High School. Austin Duncan, 26, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop A, Pulaski County. He is a graduate of Benton High School. Ronald Elkins, 28, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop H, Sebastian County. He is a graduate of Van Buren High School and the University of Arkansas at Fort Smith. Dairren Evans, 22, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop D, Phillips County. He is a graduate of Marion High School. Matthew Foreman, 21, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop A, Pulaski County. He is a
graduate of Bryant High School. Korbyn Freeman, 26, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop A, Pulaski County. He is a graduate of Bryant High School and the University of Central Arkansas. Philip Gonten, 35, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop I, Boone County. He is a graduate of Mountain Home High School. Jacob Graham, 21, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop L, Carroll County. He is a graduate of Berryville High School. Martino Green, 24, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop E, Arkansas County. He is a graduate of Pine Bluff High School. Trip Hensley, 22, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop D, St. Francis County. He is a graduate of Paris High School. Rand Lace, 23, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop D, Prairie County. He is a graduate of Cross County High School. Tyler Langley, 26, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop A, Pulaski County. He is a graduate of Conway High School and the University of Central Arkansas. Issac Lawson, 25, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop B, White County. He is a graduate of Living World Christian Academy. Tate Ledbetter, 26, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop D, Lee County. He is a graduate of Acorn High School. Jackson Little, 21, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop L, Washington County. He is a graduate of Harrison High School. Jeb Little, 26, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop A, Pulaski County. He is a graduate of Warren High School and Ouachita Baptist University. Quinton Maag, 25, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop B, White County. He is a graduate of Highland High School. Mason Marrone, 29, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop D, Crittenden County. He is a graduate of the National University Academy in Vista, California. Paul Matthews, 32, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop J, Johnson County. He is a graduate of North Crowley High School, in Forth Worth, Texas. Kayla Mean, 29, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop A, Pulaski County. She is a graduate of Mat-Su Central High School and the University of Alaska. Hugo Meza, 35, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop F, Union County. He is a graduate of Prepa-Ameza High School and the University of Gua-
dalajara in Mexico. Blaine Middlecoff, 29, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop C, Mississippi County. He is a graduate of Hoxie High School. Walker Morphis, 22, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop F, Chicot County. He is a graduate of Cornerstone Christian Academy and the University of Arkansas at Monticello. Ian Nelson, 25, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop G, Little River County. He is a graduate of Valliant High School and Carl Albert State College in Oklahoma. Brian Palmer, 31, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop G, Columbia County. He is a graduate of Magnolia High School. Seth Smedley, 26, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop K, Pike County. He is a graduate of Fountain Lake High School and Henderson State University. Zackery Smither, 21, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop D, St. Francis County. He is a graduate of Ozark High School and Arkansas Tech University. Matthew Walker, 24, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop A, Pulaski County. He is a graduate of the Camden Fairview High School and Southern Arkansas University Tech. Michael Whitman, Jr, 34, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop E, Jefferson County. He is a graduate of Pine Bluff High School. Special recognition and awards were presented to the recruits who attained the highest scores within the respective training categories listed as follows: Academics 1st place – Tyler Langley 2nd place – Ronald Elkins 3rd place – Austin Duncan Physical Fitness 1st place – Tyler Langley 2nd place – Justin Parker 3rd place – Martino Green Firearms 1st place – Ronald Elkins 2nd place – Matthew Walker 3rd place – Brian Palmer Upon reporting for duty at their respective troop headquarters, the new troopers will be placed with a certified departmental Field Training Officer (FTO). Each graduate will work in tandem with their respective FTO for a transitional period prior to being released to their assignment.
USDA program to begin in Oct.
WASHINGTON, June 18, 2020 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency (FSA)announces that Dairy Margin Coverage (DMC) safety-net signup for 2021 coverage will begin October 12 andwill run through December 11, 2020. DMC has already triggered payments for two months for producers who signed up for 2020 coverage. “If we’ve learned anything in the past six months, it’s to expect the unexpected,” said FSA Administrator Richard Fordyce. “Nobody would have imagined the significant impact that cur-
rent, unforeseen circumstances have had on an already fragile dairy market. It’s during unprecedented times like these that the importance of offering agricultural producers support through the delivery of Farm Bill safety-net programs such as DMC becomes indisputably apparent.” The April 2020 income over feed cost margin was $6.03 per hundredweight (cwt.), triggering the second payment of 2020 for dairy producers who purchased the appropriate level of coverage under the Dairy Margin Coverage (DMC) program. The April margin
News 3
reflects a more than a $3 drop from the March $9.15 cwt. income over feed cost margin. As of June 15, FSA has issued more than $100 million in much-needed program benefits to dairy producers who purchased DMC coverage for 2020. Authorized by the 2018 Farm Bill, DMC is a voluntary risk management program that offers protection to dairy producers when the difference between the all-milk price and the average feed price (the margin) falls below a certain dollar amount selected by the producer.
The Promising Pathways Act By U.S. Rep. Bruce Westerman (R-Ark.)
With COVID-19 taking up so much of the news cycle, it can be easy to forget about those living with debilitating illnesses like ALS. Even as scientists continue researching a coronavirus vaccine and working to make the impact as small as possible on America, I believe we need to continue providing cutting-edge treatment and medications to those with chronic illnesses. Unfortunately, the approval process for many of these prescription drugs is timeintensive and burdensome, causing those who need the medicine most to experience delays in care. This is why I joined several of my colleagues in introducing the biparti-
san, bicameral Promising Pathways Act. It’s important because the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) refers to the clinical trial process for prescription drugs in phases, i.e. Phase I, II and III. Early clinical trials (Phases I and II) establish and confirm safety while providing a considerable amount of data, often enough to statistically predict successful confirmatory trials. Confirmatory trials (Phase III) further test effectiveness and are the last step to a drug entering the market for patients’ use. However, Phase III trials are extremely timeconsuming and expensive, in some cases costing billions of dollars. If the FDA determines a drug doesn’t meet its standards, small pharmaceuticals attempting
to bring innovative drugs to market can go bankrupt during Phase III trials. The Promising Pathways Act would allow pharmaceutical companies to petition the FDA for provisional approval if the drug has cleared early stage clinical trials, already having proven safety. The company could then sell their drug at a market acceptable rate, give patients access to innovative treatments and compete with large, monopolistic pharmaceuticals to lower consumer cost. Sen. Mike Braun has introduced a companion bill in the Senate, and I hope that we can quickly get this legislation signed into law so that critically ill Americans can access the medication they need.
the Red River Commission. Appointment expires January 14, 2027. Reappointment. Dwayne Raper, Ashdown, to the Red River Commission. Appointment expires January 14, 2026. Reappointment. Robert Liner, Fort Smith, to the Oil and Gas Commission. Appointment expires February 20, 2025. Replaces Lee Dawkins. Frank Morledge, Forrest City, to the Oil and Gas Commission. Appointment expires February 20, 2026. Reappointment. Robert Passwaters, Bryant, to the Governor’s Commission on People with Disabilities. Appointment expires June 1, 2024. Reappointment. Craig Reinhardt, Little Rock, to the Governor’s Commission on People with Disabilities. Appointment expires June 1, 2024. Reappointment. Sheri Rogers, Hot
Springs, to the Governor’s Commission on People with Disabilities. Appointment expires June 1, 2024. Reappointment. Anne Canada, Subiaco, to the Arkansas Educational Television Commission. Appointment expires March 23, 2027. Replaces Sammie Benjamin. Ann Clemmer, Benton, to the Arkansas Educational Television Commission. Appointment expires March 23, 2022. Replaces Philip Hathcock. Annette Herrington, Little Rock, to the Arkansas Educational Television Commission. Appointment expires March 23, 2028. Reappointment. Stephen Horton, Maumelle, as a Special County Judge in the County Court of Searcy County, for the case styled Searcy County Court Case No.: CO-19-1. Replaces Judge Jim Harness, who has disqualified himself from the case.
Gov. Asa Hutchinson Announces Appointments LITTLE ROCK – Steve Sutton, Marion, to the State Board of Education. Appointment begins July 1, 2020, and expires June 30, 2027. Replaces Diane Zook. Dr. Beatrice Reed, Little Rock, to the State Board of Optometry. Appointment expires April 26, 2025. Replaces Dr. Robert Smalling. Daryl Bassett, Little Rock, to the Board of Trustees of the Arkansas Public Employees’ Retirement System. Appointment expires March 9, 2026. Reappointment. Dennis Wiederkehr, Altus, to the Arkansas Wine Producers Council. Appointment expires March 1, 2023. Reappointment. Frank Wilson, Rison, to the Arkansas Forestry Commission. Appointment expires January 14, 2029. Reappointment. Ed Spaeth, Greenbrier, to the Arkansas Manufactured Home Commission. Appointment expires September 1, 2023. Replaces Dewight Mack. Katherine Holmstrom, Little Rock, to the War Memorial Stadium Commission. Appointment expires January 14, 2026. Replaces Brenda Scisson. David Mattingly, Benton, to the War Memorial Stadium Commission. Appointment expires January 14, 2027. Replaces Kevin Crass. Dan York, Foreman, to
4 News
Thursday, June 25, 2020
Arkadelphia Dispatch
Ouachita Baptist recognizes 296 graduates By Rachel Moreno Ouachita Baptist Univ. ARKADELPHIA, Ark.— Ouachita Baptist University has recognized 296 students in its 133rd graduating class, which earned Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Music, Bachelor of Music Education and Bachelor of Fine Arts degrees. Ouachita’s May 2020, December 2019 and August 2019 graduates, whose May 9 commencement ceremony was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as forthcoming August 2020 graduates, have been invited to return to campus for a commencement ceremony on Oct. 10, 2020. This year’s graduating class featured 167 honor graduates, including 32 who graduated summa cum laude with a grade point average of 3.95 or higher (16 of those graduated with a 4.0 GPA); 74 who graduated magna cum laude (3.75 GPA); and 61 who graduated cum laude (3.5 GPA). There were also 32 graduates who completed Ouachita’s Carl Goodson Honors Program. Ouachita Baptist University, a leading liberal arts university in Arkadelphia, Ark., is entering its 134th year as a Christ-centered learning community. It is ranked the No. 1 “Best Value College” in Arkansas by Niche.com and the No. 2 Regional College in the South by U.S. News & World Report. The university has an average student/faculty ratio of 13:1 and has a 99% career outcomes rate for its graduates. Its seven academic schools include business, Christian studies, education, fine arts, humanities, natural sciences and social sciences. Ouachita’s May 2020, December 2019 and August 2019 graduates from Arkansas include the following, in order of hometown: Alexander, Ark. – Hannah Hill graduated magna cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in musical theatre. Arkadelphia, Ark. – Kinnon Dodson graduated magna cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian studies/biblical studies; Trace Fryar III graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in finance; Addy Goodman graduated magna cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communications
& media/communication studies and political science; Parker Henley graduated cum laude December 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in finance and biology; Logan Huneycutt graduated cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/sport management; Anthony Jenkins Jr. graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology; Brandon Matros graduated magna cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in finance; Johnathan Miles graduated magna cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Science degree in physics; Mattie Motl graduated summa cum laude December 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English; Tyler Sanders graduated August 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in music industry; Susanna Schleiff graduated summa cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in environmental studies; Denis Sullins graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/marketing; Madeline Wallace graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Science degree in nutrition and dietetics. Ashdown, Ark. – Kyle Burrow graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in history; Jammie Cush graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science and sociology. Augusta, Ark. – Lee Grisham Jr. graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in mathematics. Bearden, Ark. – Naya Young graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology. Bee Branch, Ark. – Beau Pennington graduated magna cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biomedical sciences. Beebe, Ark. – Paige Wright graduated magna cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and political science. Benton, Ark. – Lila Buchanan graduated magna cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology; Joy Estes graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in studio art; Gunner Hopman graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in mass communications; Emily Johnson graduated
summa cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in musical theatre; Tiffany Koba graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology; Catherine Lyp graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in mass communications; Jeremy McGee graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in finance; Justin McGee graduated magna cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology and biomedical sciences; Jackson Oulch graduated December 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian studies/ Christian ministry; Barrett Pfeiffer graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communications & media/strategic communications and visual media & film; Alex Terry graduated cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in elementary education; Ashlynn Walton graduated summa cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in mathematics, secondary education and Spanish; Caleb Webb graduated magna cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Science degree in computer science. Bentonville, Ark. – Madison Brittain graduated magna cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in finance; Madison Hale graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/marketing; Emily Siemens graduated cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in musical theatre. Bismarck, Ark. – Markie Campbell graduated cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Science degree in nutrition and dietetics. Blytheville, Ark. – Matt Burnham graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology. Bryant, Ark. – Mason Barry graduated December 2019 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in graphic design; Tanner Caton graduated magna cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian studies/Christian missions; Katie Kitchell graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in history; Allie Studdard graduated cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Science de-
gree in biomedical sciences; Libby Thompson graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in biology; Sharayah Wallace graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in musical theatre. Cabot, Ark. – Aaron Cooley graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian studies/ biblical studies; Emily McGee graduated summa cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and history; Kyla Soden graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology. Camden, Ark. – Brooke Bearden graduated cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communication sciences and disorders; Kathryn Knight graduated cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communication sciences and disorders; Stephanie McCann graduated summa cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology; Reid Rogers graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology; Thomas Worley graduated summa cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in accounting and finance. Centerton, Ark. – Rylee Roberts graduated summa cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communications & media/ integrated communications. Charleston, Ark. – Michael Ward graduated summa cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in accounting and finance. Clarksville, Ark. – Savannah Hart graduated magna cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in kinesiology and leisure studies/pre-professional studies; Emma Pitts graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Music Education degree in choral education. Conway, Ark. – Laura Bloomfield graduated December 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in kinesiology and leisure studies/fitness; Marcy Clayton graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in music; Katie Delaune graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/management; Isabel Dodds graduated magna cum laude December
2019 with a Bachelor of Music degree in performance; Spencer Greer graduated cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology; Ren Holder graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in accounting and business administration/management; Tanner Thone graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian studies. Crossett, Ark. – Morgan Rainey graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Music Education degree in choral education. Damascus, Ark. – Savannah Stacks graduated magna cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology. De Queen, Ark. – Hannah Gallagher graduated magna cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English. DeWitt, Ark. – Bryant Adams graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in interdisciplinary studies. Donaldson, Ark. – Wesley Hamilton graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/management. El Dorado, Ark. – Tyler Duncan graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in graphic design; Mitchell Emrich graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communications & media/sports media; Olivia Wylie graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Science degree in nutrition and dietetics. Fayetteville, Ark. – Allie Pitts graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in kinesiology and leisure studies/fitness; Daniel Thomas graduated cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in finance; Mariel Van Horn graduated cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communication sciences & disorders and sociology. Fordyce, Ark. – Lauren Archer graduated cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communication sciences and disorders; Mallory Nutt graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in accounting. Glenwood, Ark. – Cammie York graduated magna cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Science degree
in biology. Greenbrier, Ark. – Shelby Bradley graduated magna cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communication sciences and disorders; Kenzie Pickard graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in biology; Ethan Smith graduated magna cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/management; Spencer Sutterfield graduated magna cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/management. Greenwood, Ark. – Alex Marrin graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in musical theatre. Hamburg, Ark. – Selby Tucker graduated magna cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in accounting and political science. Hensley, Ark. – Taylor Garner graduated cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology. Hope, Ark. – Stephen Yates graduated cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian studies/philosophy. Horatio, Ark. – Jordan Izzo graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/management and marketing; Cheyann Royals graduated magna cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in elementary education. Hot Springs, Ark. – Anna Crane graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in theatre arts; Tiffany Dee graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in finance; Charley Galloway graduated cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communication sciences and disorders; Abby Leal graduated magna cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communications & media/ strategic communications and a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in graphic design; Ryan Phillips graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian studies/Christian ministry; Mallorie Svercauski graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in graphic design; Mercedes Svercauski graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of
Arkadelphia Dispatch
Thursday, June 25, 2020
Ouachita recognizes 296 grads. continued Arts degree in speech communication; Faith Twyford graduated magna cum laude December 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in graphic design. Jonesboro, Ark. – Camryn Brown graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in interdisciplinary studies; Phoebe Huff graduated cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in mass communications; Ruthie Lenards graduated magna cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in elementary education; Hannah Primm graduated cum laude December 2019 with a Bachelor of Science degree in nutrition and dietetics. Little Rock, Ark. – Caleb Byrd graduated magna cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communications & media/integrated communications, Spanish and political science; Stone Boshears graduated magna cum laude December 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in speech communication; Sean Carney graduated cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in music and Spanish; Lauren Carpenter graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in interdisciplinary studies; Ethan Dial graduated summa cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communications & media/multimedia journalism; Spencer Ewing graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology and communications & media/strategic communications and integrated communications; Nery Flores graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/management; Allie Freeman IV graduated cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in kinesiology and leisure studies/fitness; Harrison Ganaway graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science; Christian Gillum graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/entrepreneurship; William Goodson graduated December 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communications & media/strategic commu-
nications; Isaiah Harper graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/entrepreneurship; Trey Harris graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in finance; David Hudson graduated magna cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in theatre arts and education; Alex Ingram graduated December 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/ management; Hunter Jones graduated cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology; Zack Kelley graduated magna cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in history; Katie Kumpuris graduated cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in music and Spanish; Alex McDonald graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology; Rob Pilcher graduated cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in music and Spanish; Glory Pinkerton graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology; Claire Seale graduated magna cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English; De’Ja Smiley graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology; Gracie Stover graduated cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communications & media/ multimedia journalism. Lonoke, Ark. – Victoria Barnhill graduated cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in biology; Nathan Stewmon graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian studies/biblical studies and Christian missions. Lowell, Ark. – Emery Hartley graduated summa cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree
in elementary education; Sarah Vickers graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology. Malvern, Ark. – Leann Carroll graduated magna cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/ management; Abby Holland graduated cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Music Education degree in choral education. Marion, Ark. – Makayla Askins graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in worship ministry; Morgan Masengale graduated summa cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communication sciences and disorders; Lexis Miller graduated magna cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in elementary education. Maumelle, Ark. – Faith Melton graduated cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in kinesiology and leisure studies/pre-professional studies. McRae, Ark. – Hannah Bridge graduated cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in history and secondary education. Mena, Ark. – Taylor Harper graduated cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in elementary education. Mountain Home, Ark. – Dakota Flores graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in mass communications. Murfreesboro, Ark. – Lexie Baxter graduated summa cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communication sciences and disorders. Nashville, Ark. – Sadie Prejean graduated magna cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology and a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology.
Newport, Ark. – Khairan Stafford graduated December 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in studio art. North Little Rock, Ark. – Austin Blair graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science; Kristen Boatman graduated summa cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in accounting and finance; Olivia Brown graduated summa cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology; Austin Clements graduated cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in social justice studies and history; Mitch Colburn graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communications & media/strategic communications and sports media; Zach Grimes graduated cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian studies; Dana Holley graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in elementary education; Jake Morris graduated magna cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Science degree in engineering physics; Tyrell Robinson graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in kinesiology and leisure studies/fitness; Caroline Sweet graduated magna cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in secondary education and English. Paragould, Ark. – CJ Slatton graduated December 2019 with a Bachelor of Music Education degree in instrumental education. Prescott, Ark. – Anna McKinnon graduated cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communication sciences and disorders. Rogers, Ark. – Spencer Briley graduated magna cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in elementary education;
Maggie Donnell graduated summa cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in social justice studies and psychology; McKenzie Duncan graduated magna cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian studies/Christian missions and English; Aaron George graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in accounting and finance; Josh Lantzsch graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in finance and business administration/ entrepreneurship; Cedar Valdez graduated cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in musical theatre. Royal, Ark. – Jacob Lynch graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian studies/ biblical studies and Christian ministry. Searcy, Ark. – Hayden Bowman graduated summa cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biomedical sciences; Savannah Edwards graduated magna cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biomedical sciences; Keleigh Shands graduated summa cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology, political science and sociology; Ashly Stracener graduated magna cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and communications & media/ strategic communications. Sheridan, Ark. – Brockton Brown graduated cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology; Rachel Smith graduated magna cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in community and family services. Sherwood, Ark. – Samantha Boyd graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in mass communications; Maddie Young
News 5
graduated cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Science degree in physics. Springdale, Ark. – Micah Jones graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in philosophy; Brooke Woessner graduated cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communications & media/strategic communications and Christian studies/ Christian ministry. Stephens, Ark. – Brandon Miller graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Science degree in nutrition and dietetics; Colton Miller graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian studies/Christian ministry; Jakarta Powell graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/ marketing and management. Stuttgart, Ark. – Chris Wright graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian studies/ Christian ministry. Texarkana, Ark. – John Lumpkin graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in music; Madison Goodman graduated magna cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in finance and business administration/management; Blake Waters graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/sport management and marketing. Tillar, Ark. – David Sikes III graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English. Traskwood, Ark. – Trent White graduated cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/management and marketing. Walnut Ridge, Ark. – Dylan Blackwood graduated magna cum laude May 2020 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in musical theatre. Warren, Ark. – LaFoy Smith graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in kinesiology and leisure studies/fitness. West Memphis, Ark. – Rylee Elmore graduated May 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/management.
Arkansas COVID-19 Update by Department of Health AR. Department of Health
According to the Arkansas Department of Health Administration in its COVID-19 update, a total of 227 deaths have occurred in the state as of June 16. In reference to ADH’s graph, there are a total of 16,083 cases with 5.063 active and
10,793 recovered. The counties are colored by light to dark in terms of density of cases. The Dispatch will post an updated version of this graph weekly according to what is available from the Department of Health and state officials.
6 Sports
Thursday, June 25, 2020
Arkadelphia Dispatch
Hailey Estes NCAA Woman of the Year Nominee ARKADELPHIA, Ark. — Following a record-breaking career at Henderson State, women’s basketball standout Hailey Estes has been named the school’s 2019-20 NCAA Woman of the Year nominee. The NCAA Woman of the Year award, which began in 1991 and is now in its 30th year, honors graduating female student-athletes who have exhausted their eligibility and have stood out through their work in academics, athletics, service and leadership. Estes, a native of Conway, Arkansas and alumna
of Conway High School, was a four-year letter-winner for the Reddies at guard and started in 114 of the 116 games she played in her career. During her time at HSU, she averaged 12.3 points and 8.5 rebounds per game and left Henderson as the program’s all-time leader in rebounds (987), second all-time in 3-pointers made (288) and fourth all-time in points scored (1430). A two-time All-GAC selection and a First Team honoree as a senior this season, Estes was the only player in NCAA DII basket-
ball this year on the men’s or women’s side to lead their conference in both rebounds (309) and made 3-pointers (82). She was named Henderson State’s 2019-20 Female Student-
Athlete of the Year in April. Off of the court, Estes earned Academic All-GAC recognition three times, was one of 14 GAC Distinguished Scholar-Athletes for women’s basketball in
2019-20, and volunteered her time to various service efforts, including work with the Central Arkansas Development Council, reading programs at Goza Elementary and peer tutoring in Kinesiology. Estes received her undergraduate degree in Health and Human Performance in May and will attend physical therapy school in the fall. Nominees representing each conference will be selected in July. All conference-level nominees are forwarded to the Woman of the Year selection committee. The selection committee
will choose the Top-10 honorees in each division. From among those 30 honorees, the selection committee will determine the three finalists in each division. Finally, the members of the Committee on Women’s Athletics will vote from among the top nine finalists to determine the 2020 NCAA Woman of the Year. All school and conference nominees receive an NCAA certificate and will be recognized on ncaa.org. On Nov. 1, the Top-30 honorees will be honored and the 2020 NCAA Woman of the Year winner will be announced.
Quintana on moving to America, coming to AR for volleyball By Pete Tubbs Interim Editor in Chief Violeta Mendoza Quintana started playing volleyball at a very young age. “I think I was six or seven years old,” Quintana said. “It is funny because all my family actually plays basketball, but my mom once got invited to play volleyball for a team where she was working at the time and my sisters and I would [keep] her company at practices. Eventually we started to get trained by the team’s coach.” After a while, Quintana realized she was taken with the sport. “I just felt called to play,” she said. “I sometimes stopped practicing to join dance or English classes [but] I would find my way back to play it somehow.” Quintana, an outside hitter who recently signed with HSU’s volleyball team, grew
up in Chihuahua, Jiminez. At the age of nine, her family moved to Chihuahua City where they stayed until she graduated high school. After graduation, Quintana relocated to the New Mexico Military Institute. “Although it was a hard program, I decided to go there because I knew it was the right place to get me where I needed in sports and academics,” she said. Quintana knew the move would be beneficial, but it wasn’t without its challenges. “I had a rough couple of months in the beginning,” Quintana said. “Even though I spoke and understood a fair level of English, people had a hard time trying to understand me.” For Quintana, it was “really hard to communicate.” While the language barrier was certainly an obstacle, the prospect of leaving home
was also a difficult one. “It was the first time I left home for several months,” she said. “I went from comfortably living with my family to a place where I did not know anybody. I would find myself challenged from morning to nighttime.” While it may have taken a little while, Quintana eventually became comfortable in her new situation. “Eventually,” she said, “I got used to the institute’s routine. [It went from] long voleyball practices and workouts to dealing with pressure and to New Mexico’s intense heat during the summer and the drastic cold in winter.” Although the move from her hometown to an entirely new country proved to be a challenging feat, Quintana did not hesitate to tackle another. “Moving from New Mexico to Arkansas is something that I’m really looking
forward to,” she said. “I know I will face challenges and discomforts, but I will also find a new family whom I’m willing to fight for. I’m eager to represent the ‘no mere beast’ Reddie spirit under any circumstance.” “I will try to make the best out of it,” Quintana said. “It definitely will be an interesting journey and I just can’t wait for August to come.” As of right now, the HSU Women’s Volleyball team is scheduled to begin in early Sept. On the fourth, the McKendree Invitational tournament will start. The women will face off with McKendree Univ. and William Jewell College on Sept. 4. The next two matches will be on Sept. 5, but the other team has not yet been announced. More information can be found at hsusports.com.
Photo courtesy of HSU Sports
Violeta Mendoza Quintana recently signed with HSU’s Women’s Volleyball team. She grew up in Chihuahua, Jiminez.
Update on the 2020 MLB Season amidst COVID-19 concerns By Hannah Hodge Sports Reporter
The long-awaited debate of an agreed plan for the upcoming season of Major League Baseball finally was announced last night. However, the league did not formally announce the duration of the season but rumors of 60 games are the most common answer. This agreement has been under negotiation between players, coaches, owners, and the league’s board since
March 26. The urgency of finding an agreement back in March was caused by COVID-19 forcing the MLB and the MLB Players Association to find a quick solution, which was dubbed the March agreement. The first proposed agreement in early May was an 82 game season and a requirement that players give up their previous prorated pay and agree to different financial terms. In the end, the players and owners rejected this
deal and began creating various proposals on the length of the season and the pay per player. Consuming more time, both parties took over a month entering midJune after players would no longer negotiate with the MLB without including pay. After going back and forth in deliberation the league requested at 5 p.m. yesterday for an answer from the player’s ability to participate in a possible spring training at each home team’s ballpark.
The planned date to begin spring training is scheduled for July 1st and July 24th will be Opening Day. Meaning, the 60 game schedule will wrap up around Sept. 27th and then the postseason will begin. In terms of the postseason, it will remain at 10 teams playing in total. As for the safety precautions and doing everything in the league’s ability to keep the players healthy and safe, the upcoming season will have no fans in the stands.
The MLB implied teams only playing against other clubs in their division to limit travel thus making a lower chance of catching or spreading germs. These plans were constructed in early May, meaning these plans are fairly new and have a high chance of changing. In addition to the safety measures, the MLB asked the Players Association to agree on the Operating Manual. This consists of the health and safety protocols
that are vital in giving the best insurance to everyone during the regular season and postseason. However recently in other sports leagues, an abundant amount of athletes have caught the virus while at their spring training facilities. This makes it very difficult for players and the league to reach an agreement or solidify an answer heading into the season of whether playing or not is the right thing to do.
Update on the 2020 NFL Season amidst COVID-19 concerns By Hannah Hodge Sports Reporter In the midst of terrible news of the coronavirus, a spike in cases in the U.S. is making headlines. It’s hard to remember what the beginning of the year was like before the massive wave of cases spread across the world. In case you forgot, just four months ago Super Bowl LIV took place in Miami, Florida. Patrick Mahomes led the Kansas City Chiefs to victory against the San Francisco 49ers. The football season had just ended and the NBA and college basketball were just heating up entering March Madness and playoffs. Four months ago the world got to enjoy watching their favorite NFL player or team battle against each other without worry-
ing about the fears of COVID-19. It’s no secret that the majority of people are frustrated with not having sports and the seasons being canceled or postponed. The NFL season is only three and a half months away and speculations for the upcoming season are still in the air. However, training camps, preseason games, and practice dates are all still scheduled for their regular dates. The regular season is not concrete but is set to begin on September 10th when the Kansas City Chiefs play the Houston Texans. As for the offseason, the team’s headquarters are still planned to begin programs in late July. In the preparation for planning the NFL season, the danger of the coronavirus still lurks and has already swept through nu-
merous leagues across the United States. Last week numerous athletes of the Houston Texans and the Dallas Cowboys tested positive for COVID-19. Recently, Kareem Jackson tested positive while traveling. This is partially due to the NFL headquarters opening their doors to athletes for the 2020 NFL training camps and athletes possibly not taking the necessary health percussion efficiently. Although this possibil-
ity might not account for everyone who has caught the virus recently but the opening of the headquarters and practice facilities could be a place where you could contract the virus. Catching the virus is not inevitable but is something that everyone should still be taking seriously throughout quarantine. However, while restaurants, bars and places to gather are opening up it increases the chance of catching and spreading the
virus. In other words, wear a mask and practice social distancing to not only help yourselves but for others as well. Dr. Fauci, the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases has commented the following of the protocol if there were to still be an upcoming season, “Unless players are essentially in a bubble — insulated from the community and they are tested nearly every day — it
would be very hard to see how football is able to be played this fall,” Fauci said. “If there is a second wave, which is certainly a possibility and which would be complicated by the predictable flu season, football may not happen this year.” While cases are steadily on the rise and restaurants, bars, and parks opening their doors all that’s left now is to wait on updates for the upcoming NFL season.