News

Little Rock – As summer begins, Arkansas is likely to experience heat waves causing energy bill increases for many. Arkansans have already seen a tremendous rise in energy prices due to previous severe weather, inflation, supply chain issues, the cancellation of the Keystone XL pipeline, and the halting of domestic oil and gas drilling. Attorney General Leslie Rutledge is urging all Arkansans to take precautions to prepare their home and finances with the squelching summer months to come.

Lowell – J.B. Hunt Transport Services Inc. (NASDAQ: JBHT), one of the largest supply chain solutions providers in North America, announced today that the cargo vessel Johnelle has docked at the Port of Everett in Washington, with more than 250 new containers reserved for the expansion of J.B. Hunt’s intermodal fleet.

First National Bank of North Arkansas has announced they will be transitioning from a National Charter to a State Charter, pending regulatory approval from the Arkansas State Bank Department, and changing their name to Bank of 1889. Bill Hudspeth, CEO of FNBNA, said “The decision was not an easy one as the bank has had a National Charter for over 100 years but we believe this change will benefit our customers and our service to you. Our new name Bank of 1889 represents the fact that we have been a locally owned institution since 1889 and we plan to continue to provide the same level of superior customer service and great products that have made us successful for over 130 years. The bank has weathered many national crises occurring within its lifetime, without loss or major inconvenience to its customers.”

If you are someone you know is caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or another dementia, you may be interested in a new program launched this week. The Arkansas Legislative Council recently approved the creation and funding for the Dementia Respite Care Pilot Program.

Little Rock – When people call the state hotline to report suspected child abuse or neglect, about 80 percent are assigned to the Division of Children and Family Services (DCFS). The other 20 percent are considered more serious, and are assigned to the State Police, which has a Division of Crimes Against Children.

The University of Arkansas – Fort Smith Center for Business and Professional Development will host a series of two-day courses designed to help individuals learn to use Microsoft Excel. Trainings will be held at the UAFS Center for Economic Development at The Bakery District in downtown Fort Smith.