Podcasts about arkansas department

Devil in the Ozarks ////// 848Part 1 of 1  www.TrueCrimeGarage.comNorthwest Arkansas 2017 - a former Police Chief murders a man in cold blood then takes his family out for a nice dinner. Grant Hardin, a man who was relieved of his duties as Police Chief for harassing and threatening the civilians of Gateway, Arkansas was arrested for the murder of James Appleton. Later and to everyone's surprise, Grant Hardin was charged with another violent crime from 20 years prior. Grant's evil deeds and ways earned him the name “The Devil in the Ozarks.” Grant Hardin was due to likely spend the rest of his natural life behind prison walls but that all changed in May of 2025 when the Devil himself walked out and away from the Arkansas Department of Corrections' North Central Unit in Calico Rock. 30 minutes later a national fugitive manhunt ensued.  Beer of the Week - Mothman Double Imperial New England Style IPA from Ogopogo BrewingGarage Grade - 4 out of 5 bottle caps  More True Crime Garage can be found on Patreon and Apple subscriptions with our show - Off The Record.  Catch dozens of episodes of Off The Record plus a couple of Bonus episodes and our first 50 when you sign up today.  True Crime Garage merchandise is available on our website's store page.  Plus get True Crime Garage Pod art that you can post on your socials on our Media page.  Follow the show on X and Insta @TrueCrimeGarage / Follow Nic on X @TCGNIC / Follow The Captain on X @TCGCaptain  Thanks for listening and thanks for telling a friend.  Be good, be kind, and don't litter! 

A former police chief from Arkansas, who is currently serving lengthy prison sentences for first-degree murder and rape, escaped from custody on Sunday while donning a "makeshift" law enforcement uniform, according to officials from the Arkansas Department of Corrections.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This conversation explores the complexities of classroom censorship, the impact of educational policies on teacher autonomy, and the importance of fostering trust and transparency in education. Experts discuss the challenges teachers face in navigating restrictive guidelines while striving to engage students in meaningful discussions. The dialogue emphasizes the need for professionalism, objectivity, and skills development for constructive conversations in the classroom. Additionally, the panel shares resources and strategies to effectively support educators in addressing these challenges. Follow our PLN on Twitter:  @rickwormeli2 @rpondiscio @mellyteaches @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd @curriculumblog Dr. Steven Weber is an Assistant Principal at Rogers Heritage High School (AR).  He has spent over twenty five years in education, serving as a teacher, administrator, and adjunct professor.  His leadership experience includes serving as  Associate Superintendent for Teaching and Learning with Fayetteville Public Schools (AR), Executive Director for Curriculum and Instruction with Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools (NC), and Director of Secondary Instruction for Orange County Schools (NC). Weber was a social studies curriculum specialist with the Arkansas Department of Education and North Carolina Department of Public Instruction. In 2019, Weber was named the AACIA (Arkansas Association of Curriculum & Instruction Administrators) Administrator of the Year. Weber is the past president of Arkansas Association of Curriculum & Instruction Administrators, vice president of Arkansas ASCD, and has served on multiple state and national boards. Robert Pondiscio is a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute where he focuses on K–12 education, curriculum, teaching, school choice, and charter schooling. He is also a former New York City public school teacher and the author of many books, including “How the Other Half Learns: Equality, Excellence, and the Battle over School Choice” (Avery, 2019), about Success Academy Charter Schools. Rick Wormeli is a long-time teacher, education leader, and teacher/principal trainer. He is the author of nine books, including The Collected Writings (So Far) of Rick Wormeli: Crazy, Good Stuff I Learned about Teaching Along the Way (AMLE), Fair Isn't Always Equal: Second Edition (Taylor & Francis), Metaphors & Analogies: Power Tools for Teaching any Subject (Taylor & Francis), and Summarization in any Subject: 60 Innovative, Tech-Infused Strategies for Deeper Student Learning, 2nd edition, co-authored with Dedra Stafford. He is currently working directly with schools and organizations in variety of education elements, including accurate/ethical grading, equity, motivation, cognitive psychology applications, teacher professionalism, literacy, and teacher leadership. Christina Andrade Melly, an English teacher at Ritenour High School in the Ritenour School District in St. Louis, Mo., was recently named the 2023 Missouri Teacher of the Year 2023.

Exorcism Fucking.Based on a post by FinalStand, in 13 parts. Listen to the ► Podcast at Explicit Novels. ‘You told me you are Darius' girl,' I threw her words back at her. She buried her face in a pillow and started to sob. I would have been aghast except Mom, the presentimental witch that she was, had warned me about this feminine tactic to avoid responsibility.‘Stop that,' I grew stormy-serious. ‘You don't get to cry, Brandy. I keep showing you I care for you and I certainly want you. You are the one with another man.'‘That's not fair,' she turned her tear-streaked face my way. Yep, it was an act. ‘You know that Darius and I are; complicated.'I sat up. Two could play this game. Besides, there was another girl I truly was interested in and by Brandy-logic, I was free to play the field.‘No,' I shook my head in denial. ‘It is not complicated. You want to fuck us both; ‘‘No Vlad,' she protested. ‘I only want to have sex with you; it is just; Darius has this hold over me.'‘You are not asking for my help breaking free,' I pointed out.‘Vlad,' she reached out and stroked my bicep, ‘You know it's; ‘‘Oh fuck yeah!' Taliyah sang out. Apparently those internet tutorials on 'finger-play' and non-penetrative erogenous zones had paid some vital dividends for Mikhail. I had delivered fuck-all orgasms to Brandy already today, yet she suddenly looked jealous. I could deal with that. I slid off the bed to some urgent pouting on her part. She didn't have to wait long.I pulled her off the bed by her left hand and into my arms.‘Ow,' she squeaked as I put a stinging, cupped hand to her bottom. She tried to maneuver away and the chase was on. If she tried to face me, I tickled her. When she tried to avoid me, her ass got a good spanking. She squeaked, squawked, giggled and yelped playfully as I hunted her down.Brandy proved shameless, nimble for such a full-figured dynamo and athletic. She went squealing down the hall, passed the kitchen into the den. When she vaulted the sofa like a pommel horse, she finally was able to put some distance between us. I could get over the sofa just not as fast as she could. She took the momentary reprieve to spin around and shake a scolding finger at me.‘Stop taking me for granted,' she surprised me.‘What?' it was my turn to squawk. ‘I'm not taking advantage of you.' Brandy looked up at our ten inch height differential defiantly. ‘Fine, I'm not taking advantage of you this very second.' She countered by poking her chin forward, putting her hands on her hips which caused her tantalizing succulent boobs to bounce.‘Brandy?' Taliyah panted. We both finally looked over at the kitchen bar counter. Taliyah was on her back, her head tilted back so she was gazing at us upside down. Her shirt was rolled up, as was her bra. Mikhail had her legs pushed up with her ankles on his shoulders. He looked wickedly pleased with himself.‘Taliyah?' Brandy returned the questioning tone. ‘You hate Mikhail.' Taliyah turned her head forward and to the side.‘I still hate his cracker-ass, but his tongue; the bastard refuses to fuck me though,' she complained. ‘It isn't fair that I'm not getting what you clearly are getting.' Mikhail was sticking to the rules so no tongue-fucking either.‘Taliyah, their Mamma doesn't let them have random sex,' Brandy informed her. ‘You need to talk with; ah; Mrs. Samsonov before you get any of the really good stuff.' Mom was three or four miles away, yet I could still make out the reverberations of her maniacal merriment. Her wacky plan was working for no sane reason I could understand.‘No way,' Taliyah grumbled. ‘I'm not asking their Mamma for shit.' Mikhail shrugged then let her legs fall to his sides abruptly.‘I can get tail elsewhere,' he snorted.‘You fucker,' Taliyah's grumbling turned to a snarl. ‘At least help me clean up.'‘Why should I? I'm not your boyfriend and from what I hear, he treats you like a whore too,' he mocked her. Did I mention my brother could be a cruel, pompous ass? Alex was the nice guy of the three of us. I was glad I had Mikhail for this episode because I bet Alex would have gone off-program.Alex didn't need to start having feelings for a girl who'd feed him to Darius' crowds without a hint of regret.‘Vlad, do something?' Brandy demanded with a pout for extra oomph.‘Like what?' I countered. ‘You are the ones who are cheating on your boyfriends and using us for your dirty-little-secret, sexual pleasures. We could be with girls that give a damn about us.'‘Stop being such a bastard,' Brandy slapped me in my left pectoral. She followed that attack up by rushing into my arms, wrapping her arms around my waist and holding me tight as she pressed her ear to my heart. What?I was beginning to wonder if I had been lucky never having a serious girlfriend before. For that matter, I was reconsidering whether my Father's blasé attitude toward women might indeed be the right way to go.‘Frankly, Brandy; I don't give a damn,' I adopted my best Rhett Butler. ‘I haven't had this,' I squeezed her ass so strongly she had to rise up against me.‘I thought; thought you would be different,' Brandy was somewhat shocked by my raw, brutal demands. She meant she thought I'd be more like one of the spineless limp-dick White boy she'd grown up with. I fucking hated stereotypes.‘I am different. I don't have to dress you in a dozen men's semen to mark you as my own.'‘I'll take you when I want, how I want and where I want; unless you run away; really, really fast.' I spanked both cheeks at once. ‘Wench, bedroom, Now!' Brandy gasped in pleasure, struggled free and beat her little wench-feet back to the bedroom. I strode after her like the Captain of my own World.‘Why can't you be more like him?' Taliyah complained to Mikhail. He had other things on his mind. ‘Hey; stop that; I'm not Brandy. I don't; ah; take it up the ass; I said; ah; stop that.'‘Bitch, the horse is outside. Make up your mind right now, or I'm going to make it up for you,' he growled back.‘I'll bite your dick off, White Boy,' she snarled in response. Since I didn't hear a door slamming, I assumed she chose to challenge Mikhail. I don't understand women. Back in the master bedroom once more, Brandy was trying to hide beneath the comforter.‘Vlad, can we talk for a; ‘ she balked when I ripped the comforter out of her 'frightened' hands and off the bed on one mighty yank. ‘Vlad!'I was on her in a flash. I didn't go straight for the anal intercourse. First we wrestled around. She nipped and I kissed her and suckled hard enough on both nipples to give her hickies.She didn't claw me, nut me, or hit me all that hard so I figured this was what my Mom had called 'aggressive foreplay'. What I did know was by the time I had rolled her onto her stomach, her ass was pressing and wiggling against my cock with persistent need.‘Lube,' I exclaimed. She froze up, figuratively (she was slick with hot, sticky sweat), and waited for me to 'prep' her with one finger; she'd felt a lot tighter this time out; and only reinvigorated her urgent writhing once I'd returned to my dominant spot over her. Even with lube in her anus and a generous coating on my phallus, it was tough going.In hindsight, I should have taken it easier on her, but I was inexperienced and Brandy was willing to scream into the pillow instead of telling me to slow down.‘Damn,' I grunted. ‘That's; tight; ‘‘Yes,' she whimpered.‘Does it hurt?' I stupidly inquired.‘Yes; ‘ she whispered.‘Good,' I growled. I pulled back until my glans dilated her sphincter, then slammed in hard and fast again. It hurt my cockhead, but I did it again and again anyway.I could make out her sobbing. While I was formulating a new plan, her thighs and ass began to quiver. The vibrations reverberated over her entire body and then she howled like a Lost Soul discovering Paradise. It was hardly something I could call a human noise. It was definitely jubilant.‘Ha; ha; harder,' she wheezed. ‘Fuck me; ‘ and I started repeatedly pile-driving her asshole. The first time I had been using my hips. This outing I worked all my brawn and weight into my thrusts. Her vaginal secretions made a mess of the sheets, coated her thighs and my scrotum and made this oddly erotic squelching noise every time I bottomed out in her rectum.I kept going, despite all-over muscle cramps, both of us being drenched in sweat and finally Brandy losing her voice until I shot-gunned a full load of cum deep into her intestines (perhaps an exaggeration). Brandy lay there, motionless after I rolled off. After two, or three, minutes, she mumbled something.‘What?' I rolled onto my side and petted her spine from the nape of her neck to the small of her a back. She mumbled something again. I kissed her behind the left ear, nibbled on the lobe then repeated my question.‘I really do love you,' she moaned. Shit.‘Ah, ah- aha, yeah, bi, bitch, ah, ha, is that all you, ah, got White boy,' Taliyah was getting progressively louder from the front area. I could hear the recliner creaking and imagined it rocking back and forth. This I had to see. Brandy was dead weight as I tried to drag her with me out of bed. I doubled back, swept her up into my arms bride-style and quick-footed it toward the noise.Taliyah's shoulders and head were evident over the back of the leather recliner. Her face was a mask of pleasurable pain, her eyes squeezed tightly shut and her muscles strained whenever she rocked back. Mikhail was behind her, rhythmically pushing her forward then letting her rock back. His countenance was one of intense concentration. They were both naked and working up a sheen of sweat.My bet was on him trying to not be sadistic more than stopping himself from coming too soon. We Samsonov men had some incredible stamina to go with our bulky size.‘Mikhail, I knew you couldn't turn Taliyah away for long,' Brandy heaved with amused exhaustion. Mikhail shook his head in the negative.‘How's that ass, Bro?' I teased him. Brandy looked up at me uncertainly, then back to Taliyah. The Black girl's head hung in shame but that didn't stop her from giving back as good as she got.‘Taliyah!' Brandy gasped. ‘You gave up your ass; your anal virginity to Mikhail? I thought you would never give it up?'‘He held me down,' she grunted. She was clearly lying about my Brother overwhelming her as well as her raunchy gratification. Against all reason, Brandy began licking my neck and rubbing her torso, ass and thigh against my chest and arms.‘Mikhail, take her to the sofa,' I suggested. He looked up quizzically so I hefted Brandy high enough to cause her to 'meep'. I took Brandy to the sofa, placed her knees on the cushions and bent her chest on the back rest. Taking her by the hips with one hand, I pulled her rump back as I impaled her sphincter on my reanimated cock for one more ride.Eight strokes in and Taliyah and Mikhail appeared beside us. Brandy was in pure bliss. Taliyah squinted at her, then slowly gave into her own rapture. I'd always considered anal sex to be painful for the 'catcher' and not something a person could get into. Then I made allowances for Brandy's individual kink. Now I had Taliyah giving her asshole up to my brother and going wild.I seriously began accepting my novice status and the sad reality: Mom must have been a highly proficient slut to be giving such good advice to her nearly virginal sons. Her awkward (for us) verbal lessons, so hard to believe at the time, were proving timely and terribly accurate. The last trick, she said, was to treat a woman like you owned her while not to treating her like some random orifice.When I picked up the pace on Brandy's tight bunghole, Mikhail matched me. What was ecstasy for Brandy turned out to be too much for the anal virgin Taliyah. She bit down on the sofa cushion in order to stifle her scream. Taliyah vibrated up against him as her climax rocked her in a series of savage tidal surges.Brandy soaked in Taliyah's fuck-stunned look while Mikhail's gaze was one of frank appraisal of my girl's physical sensuality. She didn't press back to meet my thrusts, instead presenting her ass for the best angle of attack. Brandy squeezed her anus, and rotated her hips to give me as much stimulation as I was giving her.‘Damn Vlad, your bitch has it going on,' Mikhail laughed. Brandy shot me a quick look. Taliyah looked downright insulted by the comparison.‘Her name is Brandy, not bitch, Mik,' I glared back, ‘and your woman is looking unappreciated.' Calling him Mik told my brother I thought he'd crossed the line. Brandy's response was immediate.She arched her back up until her body was parallel to mine. Brandy kept up her gyrations allowing me to fondle her bodacious bosom while engaging her in a deep, soul-draining French exploration of the Lost Continent. The sexual act was a never-ending journey. Sensing she wanted to keep that pose for everyone's benefit, I slipped two finger from my right hand into our mouths.Those slick fingers went down to her clit and pinched that mighty nub between them. That really set her off. My left hand migrated from nipple to nipple, giving each areola a spirited slap. Her whines became orgasmic.‘Why won't you kiss me like that?' Taliyah griped.‘Because I don't feel like picking some other guy's pubic hair out of your teeth,' he mocked her. They started struggling, but Mikhail wouldn't let her turn around. He did make a concession to her amorous desires by planting kisses on her neck and ear. That mollified Taliyah somewhat, though she didn't stop trying to break free. One titanic exhalation brought Brandy crashing down from her latest climax.She hung limply in my embrace while I cradled her in my arms.‘Take a look at your brother,' Taliyah moaned. ‘He knows how to treat a lover, you Neanderthal. You could learn something.'‘I like my Black Bitches quiet,' he teased. ‘Why can't you learn that? Is it too complicated for you to understand?'That new bit of outraged allowed Taliyah to break free. As she spun around, Mikhail wisely (and stunningly) retreated.‘I ought 'a smack some color into you, Asshole,' she glared.‘That's only fair,' he raced behind the sweaty recliner. ‘I sure pumped a whole lot of white into you.'‘Rashaan is going to kill you when he finds out what you did to me,' she screamed. That was her boyfriend, the starting quarterback of the football team.‘Unless you want to visit him in the hospital, he'd better bring help,' Mikhail kept mocking her. ‘I'm sure he'll love you giving up the hole you wouldn't give him.'‘Argh!' Taliyah screamed loud enough to give me and Brandy a start. ‘You forced me and I'll let him know it.'‘That's two people lying and two telling the truth, Taliyah,' he generously insinuated the Brandy would back her friend over her fuck-buddy. ‘Besides, this is redneck Davis County, not niggah-loving Kingston. The law is on my side.'That was one 'N-word' too many. Taliyah kept chasing Mikhail who kept taunting her. Playtime had to end. The Sun was starting to set outside. Brandy seemed fascinated with the exchange of barbs mainly because I doubted she'd ever seen a White man openly confront the Black-White divide so fearlessly. This wasn't rednecks throwing empty beer cans and insults from the back of a moving pick-up truck.Mikhail was absolutely confident in his ability to withstand any retribution the Black high school power structure could throw his way. I was more worried about Dad and Mom, Dad wouldn't approve of our promiscuity, Mom had yet to bust up Taliyah to her satisfaction. How she'd handle Mikhail's ass-plugging solution was unknown to me.The immediate problem: Mikhail couldn't resist sticking verbal barbs into Taliyah and Taliyah always rose to the bait. My solution was to have Brandy get Taliyah back to the master bedroom while I gathered up her clothes. As Mikhail handed me her bra, he'd thrown it across the room when stripping her,‘I didn't ham it up too much, did I?' he winked.‘Nah. I think she thinks you are a complete and utter bastard,' I replied in a low voice.‘Damn, I really wanted fuck her today. She's smells great and she's fierce, a real tiger,' he kept smiling. Ah crap. Maybe he was smitten too. There was no way I could clue either Brandy, or Taliyah in on that. As fun as fucking Brandy was, as well as me enjoying being in her company, we had a golden opportunity here.Tomorrow a vengeful Taliyah would unload on Rashaan. He'd want payback. Darius would stop him until he found out I'd banged Brandy all over the place as well. Then we'd let the avalanche take its course. Letting slip our Dad was going to come see us at basketball practice; Mom would talk him into that for us; would guarantee a fight during school hours.Tomorrow was Thursday and Friday was an 'away' game so the football team couldn't get us after school then. That meant the team would be leaving school before the end of seventh period on Friday and there was no way they could wait to beat us up until next Monday. I had little doubt Darius would smell a set up. Convincing his minions of that would be the impossible part.In the bedroom, Taliyah was giving me a rather peculiar look.‘Are you afraid I'll steal something?' she sniped.‘What do you mean by that?' I was puzzled.‘He's not like that,' Brandy defended me; from what, I wasn't sure.‘He's White, you're White and his family are a bunch of thieves anyway,' she spat. Again; huh?‘Brandy?' I inquired. She gave me a confused look back. ‘Okay, both of you should remember I'm from Butt-fuck Alaska, before I came here I knew precisely four Black people and one of those was an infant; and go from there.'‘Oh,' Brandy nodded. Clearly I was a simpleton. ‘Taliyah thinks you don't trust her back here with only me because she's African-American and you believe she'll steal something.'I laughed loud and hard, my restive cock bouncing along with me. Both girls appeared pissed at my reaction, so I felt I needed to explain.‘Taliyah, you are the second hottest girl in school. I'm back here because I like seeing you naked as well as in various forms of undress. You are smoking,' I chuckled. ‘It is nothing more complicated than that.'‘Oh,' said Taliyah. She was both embarrassed about missing the obvious as well as loving a helping handful of padding for her ego.‘Oh,' pouted Brandy. ‘Second?'‘Yeah. I've got this thing for Amy Hutchinson,' I nodded seriously. Amy was a nice, sweet-mannered girl. She was also a sophomore, a late bloomer and flat as a board.‘Oh!' Brandy unleashed her faux-fury, ran up and slapped both my triceps. I was mesmerized by mammaries straining to break free of her frilly beige bra. Her beige panties were doing a good job of being transparent as well. She spun around like a ballerina and attempted a getaway. I was having none of that.I tackled her to the bed, press her chest down on the rumpled bed. She struggled sensually. I began nuzzling the back and left side of her neck. Then I began tickling her. She was helpless before my adroit fingers.‘Please,' she begged. ‘Please stop. I'm about to pee on myself.'‘Fine,' I withheld my torture, ‘but you owe me a two minute make-out session at your front door when I drop you off.'‘No,' she declared. Butt thump. ‘Never.' Hip shimmy. ‘Not happening,' she giggled while rapidly rubbing her panties over my unprotected cock.‘Let her up, Vlad,' Taliyah cooed softly as she ran a manicured hand from my right shoulder to my right buttock. She gave my ass a light pat to 'enforce' her command.‘God damn it,' I grumbled as I rolled off Brandy.I stared up forlornly at the ceiling fan. Brandy 'harrumphed', shot Taliyah a poisonous glance then went to all-fours next to me.‘One minute is all you're going to get, Mister,' she compromised. I leapt off the bed.‘Hurrah!' I fist pumped. The rest of the redressing went off quickly enough. I stripped the bed, rounded up the sheets and hung the comforter on the back veranda to let it air-out. It smelled like cunt juice and sweat, after all. I would put fresh sheets on the bed later. On the trail, I took point since I was the most familiar with the path. Brandy followed then Taliyah with Mikhail taking up the rear.Once we broke out into the bottom land, Taliyah moved up side by side with Brandy and began a sneaky conversation behind my back. According to my brother, they studied me a great deal while whispering. Occasionally, Taliyah shot vile looks back at him. He responded by sticking out his tongue and licking the tip of his nose.We Samsonov men have long, strong, agile tongues. I wasn't sure what genetic malformation was behind that. Upon our return to the stables, Brandy and Taliyah made to leave, but Mikhail stopped them.‘First rule of horse-riding: tend to your mount before tending to yourself.'‘Vlad,' Brandy looked my way. She nibbled on her thumb. ‘Is that a rule you follow; tending to your 'mount' first?'‘Only if I plan to ride her later,' I winked to her. ‘Then I know I'd better pet her, comb her flanks, feed and water her and make sure she is well refreshed before the next ride.'‘Give it a rest!' Mikhail scoffed. ‘She's already fucking you silly. You don't have to sell it.'‘Neanderthal,' Taliyah sneered at him as she shoved past him and back to her mount. Brandy sashayed back into the stables as well. If I wasn't careful, I was going to be picking straw out of my underwear.‘Brandy, what the idiot said, you don't need to convince him,' she teased her blonde friend. Taliyah and Mikhail waged a relentless skirmish resplendent with verbal barbs and rough, handless shoving. Before Brandy and I could get similarly distracted, her phone rang. A fearful flash of her eyes gave away the ID of the caller.‘Hey Darius,' she sounded upbeat. ‘What's up, Baby?' Darius wasn't screaming, so I couldn't make out what he said. I went back to putting away our tack and bridles. ‘I'm; ‘ I mouthed 'tell the truth'. ‘I'm at the Fonteneau House (Mom's family's last name) with Taliyah. Mr. Baxter wanted me to help Alexander and Vladimir with our first Civics project.' Not a total lie.‘What? Isn't what you think; of course, Baby; hold on; ‘ she handed the phone to Taliyah.‘Get us out of here,' Taliyah preempted Darius, almost. ‘We've been; listen Darius; no,' she grew sulky, then, ‘Don't be a Jerk!' she spat. Brandy gasped. Mikhail looked impressed and I was torn between the two reactions.‘I'm not your property; and I'm not your bitch either,' Taliyah grew more belligerent. ‘I don't give a fuck; if Rashaan gives a fuck, he can; fuck you,' she blasted Darius before she killed the connection.‘Taliyah; ‘ Brandy mumbled fearfully. The magnitude of her rebellion began dawning on the Black Cheerleading co-captain.‘Shit Taliyah, if you wanted to sit at our lunch table so bad, I could have told you a half dozen safer ways to do it,' Mikhail chuckled. She backhanded my brother in the chest which only made him laugh harder. Six blows later, he raised his hands in surrender. ‘Fine; you can sit on Alexander's lap next time.'‘Bastard,' Taliyah muttered. Her phone rang. It was Rashaan. ‘Hey Sugah, how's; yeah; with Vlad and his shithead brother Michael.' Mikhail took the opening to grab a breast and squeeze it. ‘Mother-fucker!' she yowled. Mikhail was already running around the horse to escape her.‘What; no; he grabbed my tit; what do you mean?' she dove under the mare and kicked my rambunctious kinsman. ‘Mikhail! No, the other one!' she screamed because Mikhail was starting to wheeze he was laughing so hard. ‘No, that's Vlad; yes, the one with Brandy. Damn Rashaan, you are as dumb as a stump. The Mean One!' she meant Mikhail.‘Triplets means three,' she sounded exasperated. ‘No, that's twins.' Swing and a miss. ‘I'll call you back. I'm making Vlad and Alex twins; No! They are not; Boy! I'll call you back.' Mikhail was howling so loud he fell over on his side, gasping for air. She leapt on him, legs straddling his hips and began wailing on his head and shoulders.‘Shut up you; ‘ Taliyah berated him.‘Excuse me,' Mom's voice snuff out hilarity with all the force of a glacier dropping on a candle wick. Even Taliyah's fury was quelled.‘Ah; ‘ Taliyah stammered, taking in their awkward situation.‘I heard it all; ‘ Mom glared. ‘Mikhail had it coming. Continue if you so desire.' Four sets of eyes blinked in surprise.‘Mom!' Mikhail protested. Taliyah tested these uncharted waters by smacking Mikhail's left arm, the one he was using to shield his head. Mom didn't protest, oh no.‘Bebe, let's get the horses taken care of,' she called over her shoulder. Bebe had been hiding just out of sight. ‘Dinner will be ready in thirty minutes, Vlad. Take your guests home and hurry back.' Bebe and Mom took our places while Brandy and I retreated hand in hand. Taliyah stood up without moving away. Mikhail extended a hand up, expecting her to help him out. Why? I wasn't sure.‘You fell down. Get yourself back up,' she mocked him. Mikhail chuckled, rolled onto his stomach then launched himself into a standing position. She was out the door and striding away when Mom spoke.‘Taliyah, if you want to fuck Mikhail, you'll have to stop being a whore to the football team, non-negotiable.'‘I don't want to fuck your son, Mrs. Samsonov,' Taliyah retorted as she spun around. ‘I hate him.' Mom's responding laughter was cavalier and of a remarkable caliber.‘We all hate the best men for us at some point and time,' she chortled. ‘You'll learn. All of us Samsonov women figure that out eventually.' Taliyah was rendered speechless.‘Now Bebe, get me that curry comb,' Mom truncated the conversation. We'd been dismissed and even the strangers knew it.Back in the house, ‘I hate you,' Taliyah reiterated.‘Thank God,' Mikhail guffawed. ‘I don't think I could survive you being affectionate.' She swung and missed. The chase was on again, except this time they were both laughing.Meanwhile, back at school.Alexander opened the door and walked into Ms. Blanchard's room. Five disinterested black faces and a nervous Ms. Blanchard looked his way.‘Whatchya doing here, Boy?' the leader of the male class sneered.‘Ms. Blanchard,' Alex handed her a note on official school stationary, ‘I've been assigned to your Augmented Benchmark Examinations Retest Group.'The Augmented Benchmark Examinations (ABE) Retest Group was for second-year seniors with special circumstances, such as athletes, who had failed to pass the exam last year thus didn't graduate. If the school failed to pass a certain percentage of student-athletes, the Arkansas Department of Education would suspend all school athletic programs until the school's graduation rate exceeded 85% (of incoming freshmen).For years the big fast bastard of an ex-principal had falsified records, but in 2008, Davis County took over the administration of the tests. After that, Davis County Consolidated High School had been barely limping along academically. Oh, our school had the best 10 year football record in Arkansas and two All-State Championships, but we'd been under academic warning for five of those years and for the past three years we'd been avoiding suspension by the skin of their teeth.How had that Black Fucktard handled the issue? He handed out incentives. In this case, the incentive was Ms. Blanchard. Andrea Blanchard had been fired from her first teaching job out of college in just two months and she took the job here out of desperation. When she arrived, she was given the worst of the worst students both grade- and discipline-wise.Then the principal put the screws to her. She'd been dodging the BBC for her first year. At the end of the spring semester, her English and Social Studies classes were scoring at the bottom of the rankings. She was given an (unpaid) special assignment. She had to help the team's star player (the QB that year) pass his A B E, or she would be fired 'for cause'.That would have ended her hopes of a teaching career. The jerk she was teaching had scored in the bottom ten percentile because he didn't give a shit because he thought he had a scholarship to some school in California. Now he needed summer school to graduate. Did he knuckle down and hit the books? Nah. He was smart enough to pass without much effort.What he did do was dial up the pressure on Ms. Blanchard. Bit by bit, she sold her soul to the super-star until she was a confirmed alcoholic and surrendered up her cunt (and a bit more) when he finally did pass the final exam. He went off to college out west and she got handed off to the next group of hideous under-achievers. Her abuse went on and on.Her retention was continuously based on her ability to motivate raising and repeat seniors to get off their asses and fill out the circles on a 'my IQ is at least 85' test. From the founder of this noxious fraternity, the BBC's developed an interesting ritual to confirm their dominant status.Anal and vaginal sex was forbidden on school grounds, during school hours. The 'students' settled for taking pictures of her sucking their cocks, their cum pooled up in her mouth and her masturbating. Every graduate was allowed to witness her having a gold star tattooed on her buttocks as a constant reminder of her degradation plus all her holes were fair game. How civilized was that?Had she not been half in the bottle most of the time, she might have been able to salvage some sort of academic career. Instead, she was coasting down toward a bitter end with her liver and sanity racing to see which one gave out first. Then Alexander Samsonov stepped into her life. He'd overheard two jocks joking about it when he first took Ms. Blanchard's English class the first day of classes.Since then he'd been slowly getting her to open up a tiny bit. She didn't know the full scope of what he knew about her fate, but my brother's sense of chivalry couldn't let this humiliation continue. His problem was how could he separate her from her tormentors? Neither the Principal nor the Vice-Principal would assign him the class. Not only were his grades far too high, those two knew the deal about Ms. Blanchard's servitude and disability.Exit the Fat Bastard Cocksucker and enter the Nutty-nutjob, Dr. Pierre. One impassioned speech about how Alex wanted to enter one of the doc's alma maters and eldest Samsonov triplet had his new, after-hours class assignment. Classes met from 4:30 to 6:00 pm every Monday and Wednesday with a prep test from 4:15 to 5:15 pm on Fridays.The schedule was built to work around sports training and game days; even away games. Alexander didn't meet the (low) requirements to be in the class, but then Dr. Pierre wasn't qualified to be an educator, so it all even out in the end.‘Oh,' Ms. Blanchard subconsciously pouted. ‘I wasn't aware you needed the help. You are; ‘ she looked over the sea of hostile Black faces, ‘welcome to; join us,' she petered out feebly.‘I will do my best to see all of us get through the ABE together,' he smiled at her, then met the hateful glares of his fellow academic refugees. ‘I want everyone to know the idiocy is going to stop; right here, right now.'‘What was that?' Ms. Blanchard shook away some of her post/after-school vodka haze as she tried to remember what was going on.‘Nothing, Ms. Blanchard,' he smiled at the educator. ‘I'll just take a seat.'Ms. Blanchard returned to her lesson plan for the day and after a few minutes, the boys got boisterous. Alexander had a pre-planned response for that. He took out a blue racket ball from his backpack and a leather-bound addition of 'War and Peace' in its native Russian.The moment Ms. Blanchard seemed truly distracted, with her back turned, he threw the ball at the farthest troublemaker. He let the guy know it was coming too. What happened next was the normal human reaction. The other four momentarily looked over to see if the fifth guy caught the ball. He did. Alex was being obvious about it.That also meant only the ball-catcher saw Alex smash W and P into the back of the closest moron's head. He blasted his fellow student out of his chair. The book's follow-through placed it back into Alex's backpack before anyone else was the wiser. The victim crashed violently into the Black guy next to him and the both went to the floor.‘What's going on?' Andrea asked when she turned around. She found two of her students on the floor (one cradling his cranium) one with a blue ball, two staring at Alexander with a 'wtf?' expression on their faces and an angelic Alexander staring at her.‘He hit Darnell with a book,' Devonte (aka the ball guy) exclaimed.‘This book?' Alexander motioned to the open ABE paperback book he had open in front of him, on the desk.‘No,' he grumbled. ‘The one you just hid.'‘Mother-fucker,' Tucker, (aka the Collateral Damage guy) pulled himself up. ‘I'm going to kick your; ‘ he threatened.‘My head,' the target moaned. ‘I think he dun broke ma head wide open.'‘Everyone calm down,' Andrea wavered.‘Of course, Ms. Blanchard,' Alex remained civil. ‘I must point out that Darnell appears to have been hit in the back of his skull. He must have been facing forward, listening to your lecture, so his attacker had to be someone behind him and that means it certainly wasn't me.'‘Bitch,' Tucker balled up his fists.‘Are you implying you want to view my testicles,' Alexander mocked him.‘Please everyone sit down,' Andrea pleaded.‘Your brothers aren't here to back you up,' Jase (the other guy closest to him) menaced. His buddy, Lamar, stood as well.‘I said 'please sit down',' Andrea turned shrill.‘Bitch,' Jase turned on her. ‘Sit your ass down!' He emphasized that by driving his first and middle finger into her sternum. Threatening the teacher brought Alexander out of his chair. Until that point, he'd been in the wrong.‘Care to try that on me?' Alexander challenged him.He had four; three actually (Darnell still hadn't gotten off the floor) buddies backing him up and they were all football players. Jase rose to the bait.‘Bitch,' he did the finger poke on Alex, ‘I told you, OW!' he screamed as my brother grabbed his two fingers, twisted his palm upwards then bent the fingers down toward the back of his hand.The others looked ready to rush in.

On today's show, the surprising impact of social media on young people. Also, Lorie Tudor reflects on a four-decade career with the Arkansas Department of Transportation in this week's Northwest Arkansas Business Journal edition. Plus, we hear from actors in the Walton Arts Center's last production in 2024.

Send us a textIn this compelling Wait A Gam Minute Podcast episode we explore the harrowing story of Beverly Latiker, who was charged and sentenced to life in prison for murder at just 19 years old. The video details how Beverly was allegedly being pimped out by her then-boyfriend and the father of her child. Under pressure from him, she accepted responsibility for the crime, believing his promise that she wouldn't face severe consequences.As the narrative unfolds, we learn that her boyfriend later betrayed her by turning her in for the reward money, which he never actually received. This episode emphasizes the complexities of her situation, including the manipulation and coercion she faced, ultimately leading to her incarceration.Now, after 41 years in the Arkansas Department of Corrections, Beverly's story raises important questions about justice, betrayal, and the systemic issues affecting vulnerable individuals. This episode invites viewers to reflect on her journey and the broader implications of her case within the criminal justice system

A returning Voice of Forestry joins host Seth Stephenson this month to talk about Arkansas's Prescribed Burning Act, which passed in 2023. Robert Murphy with the Arkansas Department of Agriculture is on the show to talk about the process of getting new rules created for this act and what this means for landowners who want to put prescribed fire on their property. CLICK HERE TO SEE MORE INFORMATION ON PRESCRIBED BURNS IN ARKANSAS.Thank you to our sponsors this month, Farm Credit. We appreciate their continued support of the show.You can find more music from Some Guy Named Robb/Robb McCormick on Spotify or by visiting https://www.sgnrobb.com/.For more information about the Arkansas Forestry Association visit arkforests.org.

With the Synapse bankruptcy case seemingly nearing some kind of conclusion, impacted end users are left wondering, will they ever get their money back?While, at this point, Synapse cofounder and former CEO Sankaet Pathak can't really answer that question, he is able to provide greater context on what happened and why.In this podcast, recorded as a X (formerly Twitter) livestream yesterday, November 11th, I had the chance to interview Pathak and impacted depositors had an opportunity to ask him questions directly.Key takeaways I had from the conversation include:* Pathak revealed that Evolve had sent him a cease and desist as a result of him posting what he says is an anonymized version of the trial balance report of the funds Evolve held for end users.* A description of the process by which Evolve prepared and sent files to Synapse for reconciliation, including a possible reason why balances between Evolve's systems and Synapse's appeared to varied substantially day to day, and Evolve's claim that this wasn't something to worry about, Pathak said.* Pathak said that Evolve was aware of and acknowledged that fees owed to Tabapay were improperly debited from customer funds, but that Evolve disputed whether it was the bank's fault.* Synapse didn't want Synapse Brokerage to contract with Evolve or keep the Brokerage's funds at Evolve due to the known shortfalls, Pathak said.* The plan with the Brokerage structure, per Pathak, was that incoming funds would land in users' DDA accounts at Evolve, a portion of those funds that users would transact with would stay at Evolve, and the rest would be swept out to AMG. However, Pathak says, in late September or early October 2023, Evolve, without explanation why, ceased processing sweeps out of Evolve to AMG.* Pathak described how Evolve's reversal of position on funding the FBO shortfalls led to the collapse of the deal for Tabapay to acquire Synapse's assets and, ultimately, the collapse of the company and freeze of end user funds.* Pathak acknowledged taking two loans from the company, one in late 2023 and one in early 2024, which totaled $320,000. The transactions, Pathak said, were approved by the Synapse board — though, at the time, the board consisted of Pathak himself, a seed round investor that, and a Synapse cofounder. While Pathak didn't name specific individuals, per filings in the bankruptcy case, the seed investor is Doug Marchant and the Synapse cofounder is Hilary Quirk. Pathak declined to elaborate on the purpose of the loans, besides saying he had “good reasons” to do it, which would “become obvious” relatively soon.* Full reconciliation should be possible, Pathak said, but it would require the right data, resources, people, and time.* Pathak acknowledged anonymously leaking a letter that Synapse had sent to Evolve to me (which I suspected at the time but didn't know until now.)* According to Pathak, Synapse's board of directors, which, at points, included Andreessen Horowitz's Angela Strange, Trinity Venture's Schwark Satyavolu, and Core Innovation Capital's Arjan Schütte, was broadly aware of the issues Synapse faced, that they were “trying to do the right thing,” and that the board ask Pathak “not to shut down and escalate.”* While Chapter 11 trustee McWilliams and Judge Martin Barash have made numerous references to not being able to confirm or deny if they have made any referrals to law enforcement, Pathak said that he is not aware of any criminal investigation and has not been contacted by law enforcement authorities, though he did acknowledge speaking with broker-dealer self-regulator authority Finra.* When asked if, in the regular course of its business, Synapse had any interaction with Evolve's regulators, the St. Louis Federal Reserve or the Arkansas Department of Banking, Pathak indicated that it did not.Additional Context & Fact Checking* Pathak suggested that Evolve or others not suing him for defamation should be interpreted as a sign that he's telling the truth. However, Evolve has explicitly stated that it believes Pathak's claims about a shortfall of end user funds and the causes of it are “based on ledgers that are demonstrably inaccurate and that his company prepared” (see FAQ #17 here.) It's also worth noting that Evolve may have other reasons to avoid filing such a suit against Pathak — namely, that Evolve would presumably have to turn over relevant documents as part of discovery in any such suit.* Pathak said that Synapse launched the brokerage sweep program in October 2023, in response to Evolve raising Synapse's reserve requirement and withholding interest payments owed to end users, fintech programs, and Synapse. However, the Synapse Brokerage entity had been up and running for sometime by this point, and Synapse had been working with many of its programs to migrate them to the new structure since significantly earlier in 2023.* Asked directly if Pathak or Synapse ever inappropriately used end user funds, including using end user funds to meet bank reserve requirements, Pathak said he was not aware of any instances of customer funds being misappropriated. Pathak described the allegation that Synapse used customer funds to meet reserve requirements at Lineage as “factually false.” However, Pathak's answer glosses over that it was Synapse that would have instructed from Evolve to Lineage and, per my prior reporting, represented that these were Synapse's own funds, not end users'.* Pathak also denied that Synapse knowingly allowed fees Synapse owed to be debited from end user funds, saying that, as soon as such issues came to the company's attention, it alerted Evolve and worked to fix them. However, Pathak did not specify if when these types of issues occurred, whether or not end user balances were made whole.* Asked about his robotics startup's attempt to raise funds and purported relationship with GM, first reported by me and subsequently confirmed by CNBC, Pathak described the CNBC reporter as “a piece of s**t” and “highly unethical,” alleging that the reporter contacted an auto industry union leader, not GM, leading the union leader to threaten a strike if GM didn't pull out of the deal. However, the CNBC piece quoted a GM spokesperson as saying, “GM has never invested in Foundation Robotics and has no plans to do so. In fact, GM has never had an agreement of any kind with the company. Any claims to the contrary are fabricated.” GM sent me a statement to the same effect.Existing subscriber? Please consider supporting this newsletter by upgrading to a paid subscription. New here? Subscribe to get Fintech Business Weekly each Sunday: Get full access to Fintech Business Weekly at fintechbusinessweekly.substack.com/subscribe

On today's show, Arkansans will not get the chance to vote on legalizing abortion this November. Also, the Arkansas Department of Finance & Administration sends more than 40,000 letters to registered voters. Plus, the best advice for writers from writers.

Instructional coaches can play a crucial role in supporting teachers, particularly in implementing new strategies or technologies in the classroom. This episode highlights the importance of coaches being dedicated staff members who work solely with teachers, not students. The discussion acknowledged that while this model may require significant investment, it could lead to more effective professional development than traditional methods. It is emphasized that the success of instructional coaches can't be measured solely by test scores, but also by improvements in teacher confidence and skills. Follow on Twitter: @tomwhitby @curriculumblog @HarveyAlvy1 @danacoledares @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd Ed Chat Archive: http://edchat.pbworks.com Dr. Steven Weber is an Assistant Principal at Rogers Heritage High School (AR). He has spent over twenty-five years in education, serving as a teacher, administrator, and adjunct professor. His leadership experience includes serving as Associate Superintendent for Teaching and Learning with Fayetteville Public Schools (AR), Executive Director for Curriculum and Instruction with Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools (NC), and Director of Secondary Instruction for Orange County Schools (NC). Weber was a social studies curriculum specialist with the Arkansas Department of Education and North Carolina Department of Public Instruction. In 2019, Weber was named the AACIA (Arkansas Association of Curriculum & Instruction Administrators) Administrator of the Year. Weber is the past president of the Arkansas Association of Curriculum & Instruction Administrators, vice president of Arkansas ASCD, and has served on multiple state and national boards.

Many educators support the idea of allowing students to retake exams or redo submitted assignments. However, there are significant complexities and challenges involved when teachers have large and multiple classes. In this discussion, we explore the educational value of retakes, stressing the importance of structured learning processes over mere grade chasing. The consensus was that retakes when managed well, can greatly aid student learning but require clear policies to ensure they do not overwhelm teachers. Follow our PLN on Twitter: @SarahR_Morris @LisaPas220 @RickWormeli @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd @curriculumblog Related Resources: Retakes for Grading Equity – Edutopia | Redos and Retakes Done Right (ascd.org) | Blindsided by AI Lisa Leaheey has taught English at North Providence High School for the entirety of her 23-year career. A lifelong voracious reader and movie buff, she spends every day sharing her passion for stories with her students, and she continuously seeks out new ways to elevate her students' individual strengths and to support their individual needs. Lisa was recently named the 2023 Rhode Island Teacher of the Year. Rick Wormeli, a long-time classroom veteran, now award-winning author and teacher trainer, was one of the first Nationally Board Certified Teachers in America as well as Disney's Outstanding English Teacher of the Nation in 1996. Today, he trains teachers and principals in all 50 states and eight countries, writes for education journals and magazines, and is working on his 12th book. Sarah Ruth Morris is a Ph.D. candidate in the Department of Education Reform at the University of Arkansas and a strategic data partner for the Northwest Arkansas school districts at the Office for Education Policy. She researches grading practices and the ninth-grade year. Dr. Steven Weber is an Assistant Principal at Rogers Heritage High School (AR). He has spent over twenty-five years in education, serving as a teacher, administrator, and adjunct professor. His leadership experience includes serving as Associate Superintendent for Teaching and Learning with Fayetteville Public Schools (AR), Executive Director for Curriculum and Instruction with Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools (NC), and Director of Secondary Instruction for Orange County Schools (NC). Weber was a social studies curriculum specialist with the Arkansas Department of Education and North Carolina Department of Public Instruction. In 2019, Weber was named the AACIA (Arkansas Association of Curriculum & Instruction Administrators) Administrator of the Year. Weber is the past president of the Arkansas Association of Curriculum & Instruction Administrators, vice president of Arkansas ASCD, and has served on multiple state and national boards.

On today's show, a recent report examines professional development from a big vendor with the Arkansas Department of Education— What did they find? Also, an Arkansas author details the expansive legacy of John Quincy Adams. Plus, doubling up at farmer's markets.

It's Wednesday, June 5th, A.D. 2024. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard at www.TheWorldview.com. I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark Tiananmen Square massacre anniversary Yesterday was the 35th anniversary of the Tiananmen Square massacre in China. In the weeks leading up to the massacre in 1989, students were leading pro-democracy protests in Beijing. In response, the Communist Chinese government forcibly put down the protests, killing hundreds if not thousands. China's military also arrested leaders in the underground church which had fueled the protests.  Persecution of Christians in Hong Kong Speaking of China, the country's persecution of Christians continues and is spreading to Hong Kong.  Since 2020, China has extended control over Hong Kong. This has led to the arrest of church leaders and the closure of some religious groups. Many Christians have left Hong Kong for the United Kingdom, making the Chinese church the fastest growing one in Britain.  Hong Kong Christians put out a commemorative prayer for the anniversary of the Tiananmen Square massacre. Despite authorities banning candlelight vigils, the prayer says, "Let us, in the great light of the Lord's amazing grace, light a candle in the depths of our souls, to continue their unfinished aspirations in the prayers and shadows, never to be lost or forgotten. O Lord! Let there be light in our hearts.” In Matthew 5:14, Jesus said, “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden.” United Kingdom blocks puberty blockers Last Wednesday, the United Kingdom issued new restrictions on puberty blockers for children in England, Wales, and Scotland.  The emergency ban lasts from June 3 to September 3, 2024. During the timeframe, doctors cannot prescribe the transgender drugs to people under 18. The new policy also introduced indefinite restrictions to the prescribing of these drugs by primary care providers in England's National Health Service.  Genesis 1:27 says, “So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.” Biden caps southern border illegals to 2,500 per day Ahead of the U.S. presidential election, President Joe Biden issued an executive order yesterday to curb illegal immigration at the U.S.-Mexico border. The order limits asylum requests once the average number of daily border encounters hits 2,500. The number of daily encounters is already above that. So, the order is expected to go into effect immediately.  It will stay in effect until the number of daily encounters drops to 1,500 or lower. The last time border encounters were at that level was 2020. Texas and Florida responsible for half of America's new jobs In the last five years, just two states were responsible for over half of new jobs in America. Those states are Texas and Florida.  The conservative states feature lower wages which is attractive to companies wanting to create jobs, and lower cost of living which is attractive to workers. Not surprisingly, many people with remote jobs moved to states, like Florida and Texas, which have a lower cost of living. Meanwhile, liberal states with high wages and cost of living fell out of the top 10 job-creating states. They include California, New York, Washington state, and Massachusetts. California used to be the top job creator between 2014 and 2019. Now, it's at the bottom.  How Indiana cut abortions by 98% The Indiana Department of Health released a report on abortions in the state for the first quarter of 2024. Remarkably, there were only 45 abortions during the first quarter, down from nearly 2,000 during the first quarter of 2023. That's a 98% decrease! Indiana's abortion ban went into effect last August. It outlaws abortions at all stages of pregnancy with some exceptions.   Arkansas had no abortions in 2023 Meanwhile, a report from the Arkansas Department of Health's Vital Statistics found there were no abortions reported during the entirety of last year. The state started enforcing its abortion ban in 2022. Before that, yearly abortions were over 3,000. Paris' Notre Dame Cathedral restored by December after fire The Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, France was devastated by fire back in 2019. Since then, hundreds of companies and craftsmen have been working to restore the cathedral by December of this year. Last month, workers restored the iconic cross on the cathedral's roof.  A project manager told CBS News it was a miracle that the cross didn't burn a lot. The restored cross spans 40 feet and weighs over 3,000 pounds. In other Notre Dame news, Lego just released a 4,383-piece model of the cathedral. It's the first model of a religious structure the toy company has released since it produced a model church in 1957.  The Worldview: A “five-minute dose of freedom” In response to my request for Worldview listeners to email me at Adam@TheWorldview.com to share what the newscast means to them, I heard from Max Wood in Macon, Georgia. He wrote, “John 8:32 tells us that we shall know the truth and the truth will set us free. In a world of fake news, biased news, and propaganda, The Worldview is a daily reminder of what is true and just and inspires us to seek the ultimate truth in God's Word. Thank you for your five-minute dose of freedom every day.” 9 Worldview listeners gave $1,750 Toward out Friday, June 7th goal of raising $28,550 to help keep the newscast on the air, 9 Worldview listeners stepped up to the plate. Our thanks to Wyatt in Summerdale, Alabama who gave $5, Linda in Palmdale, California who gave $25, as well as Jason in Grand Junction, Colorado and Sheila in Phoenixville, Pennsylvania – both of whom gave $50. We also appreciate the generosity of Nancy in Ketchikan, Alaska who gave $100, Sullivan in Las Vegas, Nevada who gave $120, Sammy in Pallara, Queensland, Australia who pledged $25/month for 12 months for a gift of $300, Bill in Castle Rock, Colorado who gave $500, and Kelly in Las Vegas, Nevada who pledged $50/month for 12 months for a gift of $600. Those 9 Worldview listeners gave a total of $1,750. Ready for our new grand total? Drum roll please. (sound effect of drum roll) $3,230 (audience cheering) We have only three days left to raise $25,320.  I wonder if there might be 4 Worldview listeners who could each give $4,000 to jumpstart this week in a major way! But whether you can give $4 or $4,000, please make the donation that God has placed on your heart.  Just go to TheWorldview.com, click on “Give,” select the dollar amount you'd like, and click on the recurring button if that's your wish. Let's see how God will move through you! Close And that's The Worldview in 5 Minutes on this Wednesday, June 5th, in the year of our Lord 2024. Subscribe by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

This week Meagan's patience runs out as she REALLY struggles with technology. Working through her frustrations she shares her experiences in half way houses and reentry. Meagan recalls every half way house she has been in and weighs the pros and cons of each facility. Meagan also shares what helped her the most from each facility and what she believes the Arkansas Department of Corrections could do to better to prevent returning citizens from walking back through those gates and lower recidivism rates state wide. Meagan also goes back to prison in this episode but not as an inmate.This week is also the first installment of "Letters from Lifers" where Meagan reads letters she received from inmates serving life sentence in the Arkansas Department of Corrections.I want to dedicate this episode to my good friend Melisa Principe who passed away last week from health issues. I met her in reentry. She was a great friend and really solid in her recovery. She will be greatly missed. My condolences to her family and friends.If you have any comments or just want to get in touch please feel free to reach out at incarceratedinarkansas@gmail.com

Shea Lewis Secretary Shea Lewis was appointed as Secretary of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism and Director of State Parks in August 2023 by Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders. The Governor appointed Lewis as Interim Secretary of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism in June. Shea was selected as the 10th director of Arkansas State Parks in 2022. In that role, he was responsible for the day-to-day operation of 52 state parks found in 48 counties, covering 55,000 acres across the state. With over 9 million visitors on an annual basis, his areas of responsibility ranged from operations, maintenance, planning, development, emergency and program services, marketing, promotion, revenue, sales, outdoor grants, and general administration. Shea started his career with Arkansas State Parks as a seasonal park interpreter in 1995. With nearly three decades under his belt, he has also served as a full-time interpreter, park superintendent, region supervisor, and deputy director for Arkansas State Parks. He received a bachelor's degree in parks, recreation, and leisure studies from the University of Memphis and a master's degree in educational/instructional media design from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock

In this episode Meagan struggles with technology and learns how to edit audio files in the studio software. This week I sat down with my long time friend to discuss Lindsey's journey. Travel with us down memory lane as Lindsey gets vulnerable about her strengths and struggles post incarceration and how she has maintained sobriety and freedom 8 years after her release from the Arkansas Department of Corrections.

On today's show, The Arkansas Department of Education has proposed to cut funding for education coops by more than $4 million for the 2025 fiscal year. But why? Also, a business success story based on intuition. Plus, keeping balance with nutrition, exercise and health.

Shea Lewis Secretary Shea Lewis was appointed as Secretary of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism and Director of State Parks in August 2023 by Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders. The Governor appointed Lewis as Interim Secretary of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism in June. Shea was selected as the 10th director of Arkansas State Parks in 2022. In that role, he was responsible for the day-to-day operation of 52 state parks found in 48 counties, covering 55,000 acres across the state. With over 9 million visitors on an annual basis, his areas of responsibility ranged from operations, maintenance, planning, development, emergency and program services, marketing, promotion, revenue, sales, outdoor grants, and general administration. Shea started his career with Arkansas State Parks as a seasonal park interpreter in 1995. With nearly three decades under his belt, he has also served as a full-time interpreter, park superintendent, region supervisor, and deputy director for Arkansas State Parks. He received a bachelor's degree in parks, recreation, and leisure studies from the University of Memphis and a master's degree in educational/instructional media design from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.

Join Jaclyn House's conversation with Dalaney Thomas, Director of Tourism with the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism, as she spotlights what sets the state apart. From unmatched outdoor recreation and trail access to cultural amenities like southern cuisine, hospitality, and art, Dalaney provides insider tips to maximize your Arkansas vacation. Tune in to learn why the Natural State is an accessible, vibrant destination for travelers of all ages and interests.You can listen to this podcast on Apple Podcasts, Overcast, Spotify, CastBox, Podcast Casts, Google Podcasts, iHeartRadio, and Podcast Addict.  Don't forget, Visit Bentonville is here to assist you in finding things to do, where to eat and stay, and find out what's going on in the city. Visit our website visitbentonville.com and subscribe to our enewsletter here. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and LinkedIn.  

Ron tries to slow down time because it's going way too fast. He also tells his story of looking like Jesus.... Guest: Shea Lewis is Secretary of Arkansas Department of Parks and talks about the upcoming total eclipse of the sun

Antibiotic resistance and the inappropriate use of antibiotics pose growing threats to public health, both here in Arkansas and around the globe. For U.S. Antibiotic Awareness Week, we're joined by one of our public health partners to learn more about these issues and what healthcare professionals and the public should know about antibiotic resistance. Jordan Murdoch, a licensed pharmacist and a pharmacy consultant for the Arkansas Department of Health's healthcare-associated infections and HIV programs, sits down with host Craig Wilson in this episode of Wonks at Work.

SummaryOn this episode of The Bentonville Beacon, host James Bell is joined by Arkansas Department of Commerce Secretary Hugh McDonald for a fascinating conversation about the state's economic growth initiatives and the role Greater Bentonville plays in the state's success. The Arkansas Department of Commerce's mission is to champion economic opportunities through strategic initiatives and an equitable regulatory environment that attracts and grows businesses, safeguards consumers, enhances workforce quality and energizes the state's infrastructure, creating a better quality of life in Arkansas. Throughout the episode, James and Secretary McDonald discuss Arkansas's diverse economy, the importance of supporting its small businesses and entrepreneurs, the state's booming outdoor recreation industry and much more. Show Notes(0:57) Introducing Arkansas Department of Commerce Secretary Hugh McDonald(3:23) Arkansas's Diverse Economy(6:43) How Bentonville Can Inspire the Rest of Arkansas(9:28) Supporting Small Businesses and Entrepreneurship in Arkansas(15:14) Arkansas's Booming Outdoor Sector(19:25) Workforce Development(23:00) Economic Development Initiatives across the State(26:17) Creating a Unified, Prosperous Arkansas(31:38) Secretary McDonald's #Because Bentonville Story(34:12) Closing QuestionsLinksJames Bell Bentonville Economic DevelopmentArkansas Department of Commerce Secretary Hugh McDonald Arkansas Department of Commerce Quotes“If you look around the state [at] all the activity that's been happening. Northwest Arkansas—it's been a twenty-plus year phenomenal story of growth, from Fortune 500 companies entrepreneurs.” - Arkansas Department of Commerce Secretary Hugh McDonald, (5:21)“Quality of life is just as important to be able to attract the right kind of talent, no matter where you are in the state. And I think the Bentonville and Northwest Arkansas [area] probably recognized that sooner than most folks in Arkansas. People talked about it all over the state, but you guys actually did it and made it a concerted strategy and put a lot of resources behind it.” - Arkansas Department of Commerce Secretary Hugh McDonald, (7:46)“I've always supported regionalism. Whether you're in Little Rock, Northwest Arkansas or Northeast Arkansas, you cannot do economic development right if you're focused on your boundaries.” - Arkansas Department of Commerce Secretary Hugh McDonald, (26:57)“Let's try to bring down our barriers. Don't get sidetracked with artificial boundaries, but break down silos. Work together in a partnership. Find, collaborate and solve big problems. You just can't solve big problems if you're doing it by yourself. You've got to find partners to do big things.” - Arkansas Department of Commerce Secretary Hugh McDonald, (37:05)

In this episode, Dr. Almitra Berry delves deep into a pivotal moment at the intersection of education and politics, where the decisions made by the Arkansas Department of Education reverberate far beyond state lines. With a powerful quote from one of the Little Rock Nine serving as our guiding beacon, Dr. Berry invites us to embark on a transformative journey. Key Takeaways:The Arkansas Department of Education's decision not to count AP African American Studies towards graduation has sparked controversy.The Learns Act in Arkansas encompasses various aspects of education, including school vouchers, teacher pay raises, literacy standards, and material reviews, affecting what students learn.Many states are proposing or approving legislation to restrict how race is taught in schools, reflecting a broader national trend.Confederate and conservative ideologies have influenced Southern education for over a century, shaping curricula and contributing to the current debate on educational content.Questions arise about the timing and motives behind the Arkansas Department of Education's decision, emphasizing the intersection of politics and education.The episode explores who gets to control the narrative of American history and whose voices are included in education, particularly in courses like AP African American Studies.As Dr. Berry aptly puts it, "Don't worry about the things you cannot change. Let's change the things we can no longer accept." So, join the conversation, share your voice, and tune in to this episode to be part of the change. Together, we can shape the future of education and ensure that all voices are heard and valued in the story of our nation.Threads: @alberryconsulting TikTok: @almitraberry Email info: @askdrberry.com

Join 850+ people getting public health insights directly to their inbox: https://www.thephmillennial.com/signup/ Dr. Quinyatta Mumford, DrPH, MPH, CHES, is the MPH Program Director and Assistant Professor at New York Institute of Technology. She is also the CEO of Mumford and Associates and works as Chief Informatics Officer at the CDC Foundation. She believes to enjoy good health, to bring true happiness to one's family, to bring peace to all, one must first discipline and control one's own mind. Quinyatta conferred her Bachelors of Biology at The University of Alabama Huntsville then went on to get her Master of Public Health in Community Health and Prevention Medicine at Walden University. She conferred her Doctor of Public Health at University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences.Shownotes: https://thephmillennial.com/episode173Connect with guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/qmumford/Chapters:0:00 Episode start1:24 Episode Intro2:21 Guest intro3:27 Identify & Personal background3:50 Control mind to have health and happiness6:55 Academia and real world practice8:33 What is public health?10:26 Bachelors in Biology at University of Alabama Huntsville12:47 Experience in public health13:33 Undergrad Takeaways14:40 MPH at Walden University17:22 Experiences during MPH20:40 Lead Based Paint Epidemiologist24:04 Roles at Arkansas Department of Health28:47 Shift to Director29:40 CEO of Mumford & Associates36:34  Increasing credibility of Mumford & Associates 37:36 Advice for social impact orgs38:19 Why a Doctor of Public Health39:44 DrPH takeaways42:01 Advice for DrPH44:00 Adjunct professor positions46:42 Advice for professors47:30 Chief Informatics Officer at CDC Foundation48:36 Data Visualization Importance51:07 MPH Program Director & Assistant Professor at NY Institute of Technology53:16 Keys from hey journey54:00 Connect and Future predictions55:17 The Furious Five58:48 Support usSupport the showThanks for tuning in. Let's all work together towards a culture of health, wellbeing, and equity for all. ⭐⭐ SUBSCRIBE & Leave a 5-STAR REVIEW! ⭐⭐ Follow & Support:- Contribute to the show (one-time or monthly)- The Public Health Millennial on IG - The Public Health Millennial on LinkedIn - The Public Health Millennial Website- Omari Richins, MPH on LinkedIn- Support on The Public Health Store

On today's show, Ozarks At Large dives into the effects of a Hollywood writers' strike in the Natural State. Also, explaining what the Arkansas Department of Education's report card assessments mean for public schools. Plus, a new episode of Reflections in Black.

Student engagement remains high on the priority list this school term. Recent studies suggest keenly listening to students' needs can make a significant difference. In this session, we explore what students really need us to hear and how we can improve our ability to hear what matters most to each of them. Follow our PLN on Twitter: @brandihalverson @LisaPas220 @5Silber @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd @curriculumblog Related Resources: Orchestrating the Move to Student-Driven Learning | by Bena Kallick and Allison Zmuda Inclusive Schools: Does Your Classroom Support Introverts | by Steven Weber Brandi Halverson is a mental health professional currently working as a School Counselor. She has 25 years of experience in education ranging from elementary to high school students. Ms. Halverson obtained her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health from San Houston State University. She plans to continue her career by pursuing her LPC and research in mental health studies. Lisa Leaheey has taught English at North Providence High School for the entirety of her 23-year career. A lifelong voracious reader and movie buff, she spends every day sharing her passion for stories with her students, and she continuously seeks out new ways to elevate her students' individual strengths and to support their individual needs. Lisa was recently named the 2023 Rhode Island Teacher of the Year, Sara Silber is an award-winning elementary school teacher and a lead mentor with 30 years of classroom experience. Sara has written two blogposts, for BehaviorFlip's Blog — “Social Emotional Growth Maps” and “A Teacher's Journey Through Hacking School Discipline.” More recently, she authored a chapter in the inspiring book Thank You, Teacher. Sara enjoys working with her students and helping them grow and become independent learners. When she is not teaching or planning she is finding ways to support her colleagues. She loves to share her expertise, funny stories and other things that happen in the life of a teacher. Dr. Steven Weber is an Assistant Principal at Rogers Heritage High School (AR). He has spent over twenty five years in education, serving as a teacher, administrator, and adjunct professor. His leadership experience includes serving as Associate Superintendent for Teaching and Learning with Fayetteville Public Schools (AR), Executive Director for Curriculum and Instruction with Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools (NC), and Director of Secondary Instruction for Orange County Schools (NC). Weber was a social studies curriculum specialist with the Arkansas Department of Education and North Carolina Department of Public Instruction. In 2019, Weber was named the AACIA (Arkansas Association of Curriculum & Instruction Administrators) Administrator of the Year. Weber is the past president of Arkansas Association of Curriculum & Instruction Administrators, vice president of Arkansas ASCD, and has served on multiple state and national boards.

Student engagement remains high on the priority list this school term. Recent studies suggest keenly listening to students' needs can make a significant difference. In this session, we explore what students really need us to hear and how we can improve our ability to hear what matters most to each of them. Follow our PLN on Twitter: @brandihalverson @LisaPas220 @5Silber @bamradionetwork @jonHarper70bd @curriculumblog Related Resources: Orchestrating the Move to Student-Driven Learning | by Bena Kallick and Allison Zmuda Inclusive Schools: Does Your Classroom Support Introverts | by Steven Weber Brandi Halverson is a mental health professional currently working as a School Counselor. She has 25 years of experience in education ranging from elementary to high school students. Ms. Halverson obtained her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health from San Houston State University. She plans to continue her career by pursuing her LPC and research in mental health studies. Lisa Leaheey has taught English at North Providence High School for the entirety of her 23-year career. A lifelong voracious reader and movie buff, she spends every day sharing her passion for stories with her students, and she continuously seeks out new ways to elevate her students' individual strengths and to support their individual needs. Lisa was recently named the 2023 Rhode Island Teacher of the Year, Sara Silber is an award-winning elementary school teacher and a lead mentor with 30 years of classroom experience. Sara has written two blogposts, for BehaviorFlip's Blog — “Social Emotional Growth Maps” and “A Teacher's Journey Through Hacking School Discipline.” More recently, she authored a chapter in the inspiring book Thank You, Teacher. Sara enjoys working with her students and helping them grow and become independent learners. When she is not teaching or planning she is finding ways to support her colleagues. She loves to share her expertise, funny stories and other things that happen in the life of a teacher. Dr. Steven Weber is an Assistant Principal at Rogers Heritage High School (AR). He has spent over twenty five years in education, serving as a teacher, administrator, and adjunct professor. His leadership experience includes serving as Associate Superintendent for Teaching and Learning with Fayetteville Public Schools (AR), Executive Director for Curriculum and Instruction with Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools (NC), and Director of Secondary Instruction for Orange County Schools (NC). Weber was a social studies curriculum specialist with the Arkansas Department of Education and North Carolina Department of Public Instruction. In 2019, Weber was named the AACIA (Arkansas Association of Curriculum & Instruction Administrators) Administrator of the Year. Weber is the past president of Arkansas Association of Curriculum & Instruction Administrators, vice president of Arkansas ASCD, and has served on multiple state and national boards.

After 2 days of testimony, Ivan Santos was found guilty of 3 Counts of Negligent Homicide, 4 Counts of Attempted Negligent Homicide and DWI and sentenced by a Crawford County jury to 100 years in the Arkansas Department of Corrections, which was the maximum sentence. Follow us on:Instagram: www.instagram.com/BlackDragonBikerTV on Instagram. Thank you!TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@blackdragonbikertv Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/jbunchiiFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/blackdragonbikerBuy Black Dragon Merchandise, Mugs, Hats, T-Shirts Books: https://blackdragonsgear.comDonate to our cause:Cashapp: $BikerPrezPayPal: https://tinyurl.com/yxudso8zZelle: jbunchii@aol.com Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BlackDragonNPSubscribe to our new discord server https://discord.gg/dshaTSTSubscribe to our online news magazine www.bikerliberty.comSubscribe to Black Dragon Biker TV YouTube https://tinyurl.com/y2xv69buSubscribe to our Prepper Channel “Think Tactical”: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-WnkPNJLZ2a1vfis013OAgGet 20% off Gothic biker rings by using my special discount code: blackdragon go to http://gthic.com?aff=147Get my new Audio Book Prospect's Bible from these links: United States https://adbl.co/3OBsfl5United Kingdom https://adbl.co/3J6tQxTFrance https://bit.ly/3OFWTtfGermany https://adbl.co/3b81syQThis show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/3267493/advertisement

Do we really have to explain why Black History matters? This year the state government and the Arkansas Department of Education has declared war on African American History/Black Studies. On this special episode of The Folding Chair podcast, Osyrus Bolly gives listeners the latest news about the AP African American History course being taught in a few high schools in our state, why the it's under attack in the state of Arkansas and our next steps as education advocates.

Heavie starts the episode with the weekly Word of Motivation. Next, Heave dives into the latest environmental crises with California's simultaneous tropical storm warning and earthquake and new developments about the Hawaii wildfire. Did you know India just became the first country to land a spacecraft near the south pole of the Moon? Heavie discusses this and recent news that Russia crashed a spacecraft into the moon. Classes are back in session! Heavie wishes a happy FDOC to students, teachers, and faculty. The Little Rock Nine have denounced the AP African American Studies restriction made by the Arkansas Department of Education. Heavie discusses the significance of the Little Rock Nine speaking out against the restriction. Sha'Carri Richardson won the 100m at the 2023 World Athletics Championships. Heave discusses recent comments made by Sha'Carri after her semifinal win and public disagreements between Stephen A. Smith-Lonzo Ball and Tua Tagovailoa-Ryan Clark. Heavie ends the episode with her favorite segment ‘Things That Had Me Like WTF.'

In a shocking move, Arkansas is once again setting a contentious precedent by confiscating African American studies materials over concerns about critical race theory. Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders and her administration have demanded that every K-12 school in a six-district radius turn over educational materials for inspection, citing concerns about indoctrinating students. But is this truly about preventing potential biases or an overt act of erasing important aspects of Black history and culture? The Arkansas Department of Education recently declined to recognize a new advanced placement course on African American history for the upcoming school year. In a nation built on freedom and the right to knowledge, one has to ask, are we nurturing an informed future or propagating a censored past? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

During my research on last week's episode on post partum, I learned that my own state of Arkansas holds the #1 spot in the US for maternal mortality rates. I'm interviewing Dr. Zenobia Harris today, whose accolades in this field are numerous to try to understand what's not happening in Arkansas that needs to happen - and what states are doing it right and how. Dr. Harris heads up the Arkansas Birthing Project, and is an incredible force and national advocate for health equity and for improvements to family, child, and maternal health. The program as well as the national organization Every Mother Counts is reaching out to minority women and their families, who are much more likely to suffer severe medical problems both during and after pregnancy. Thanks as always to MagBreakthrough for their sponsorship of this episode! Advertisers' Link: We welcome back BiOptimizers and Magnesium Breakthrough as a returning sponsor to SelfWork and they have a new offer! Just click here! Make sure you use the code "selfwork10" to check out free product!   Vital Links: Birthing Project USA Dr. Krystal Caschetta as a victim of severe post partum depression You can hear more about this and many other topics by listening to my podcast, SelfWork with Dr. Margaret Rutherford. Subscribe to my website and receive my weekly newsletter including a blog post and podcast! If you'd like to join my FaceBook closed group, then click here and answer the membership questions! Welcome!   My book entitled Perfectly Hidden Depression is available here! Its message is specifically for those with a struggle with strong perfectionism which acts to mask underlying emotional pain. But the many self-help techniques described can be used by everyone who chooses to begin to address emotions long hidden away that are clouding and sabotaging your current life. And it's available in paperback, eBook or as an audiobook! And there's another way to send me a message! You can record by clicking below and ask your question or make a comment. You'll have 90 seconds to do so and that time goes quickly. By recording, you're giving SelfWork (and me) permission to use your voice on the podcast. I'll look forward to hearing from you! Episode Transcript This is SelfWork. And I'm Dr. Margaret Rutherford. At SelfWork, we'll discuss psychological and emotional issues common in today's world and what to do about them. I'm Dr. Margaret, and SelfWork is a podcast dedicated to you taking just a few minutes today for your own selfwork. Speaker 2: Dr. Margaret Hello and welcome or welcome back to SelfWork. I'm Dr. Margaret Rutherford, and I'm so glad you're here. This week, we had another reminder of the seriousness of post partum depression - or the potentially fatal mixture of new motherhood and suicide. Dr. Krystal Caschetta, an oncologist, is reported to have killed her 4 month-old daughter and then killed herself in New York.  Current evidence seems to support that she was suffering from the most severe type of post partum, or what's called post partum psychosis, where the new mother is besieged with delusions or hallucinations that can govern her behavior and lead to violence against her baby and her self. It's another set of gruesome tragedies that demands our attention because these deaths can be prevented with the right care and understanding. I'm sure there will be more to report. And our hearts go out to that family and others who've experienced such a harsh reminder of the mental and emotional toll pregnancy can take. During my research on last week's episode on post partum, I learned that my own state of Arkansas holds the #1 spot in the US for maternal mortality rates. I'm interviewing Dr. Zenobia Harris today, whose accolades in this field are numerous. She heads up the Arkansas Birthing Project, and is an incredible force and national advocate for health equity and for improvements to family, child, and maternal health. The program as well as the national organization Every Mother Counts is reaching out to minority women and their families, who are much more likely to suffer severe medical problems both during and after pregnancy. What's amazing is that those statistics can be reversed with support for that mom during pregnancy - provided by who Dr. Harris calls "sister friends."  Here on SelfWork, we talk about what you can do about it. Dr. Harris is doing just that and creating a network of sister friends that are saving lives- and we want to support that mission here at SelfWork! We want to welcome back Magnesium Breakthrough as a sponsor of SelfWork once again! In fact, Mag Breakthrough helped me avoid a side effect of another medication I needed to take for a few days simply by helping my colon function better. I love this product! Commercial for MagBreakThrough Hey guys, I wanna share with you that recently I've been working on some very important projects that have very short deadlines, as always, right? Seems everything today is ASAP. Anyway, I have not been able to keep up with all of my self-care routine. I certainly haven't had breaks to have proper meals, and I'm drinking way too much ice tea. I was starting to get really stressed out when I remembered that the magnesium breakthrough I take every night is also a great support for stress management, and I'd kind of forgotten that. In fact, magnesium is responsible for over 300 body reactions, and Magnesium Breakthrough is the only magnesium formula that delivers all seven different forms of magnesium. I didn't know there were seven forms, one of them being feeling more calm, centered, and in control of our stress. If you are trying to balance life demands, give it a try. Trust me, your mind and your body will thank you for it. What you can do is visit Magbreakthrough.com/ selfwork and order now. Oh, in addition to the discount you get by using promo code selfwork10. So that's different selfwork10. They're also amazing gifts with purchase. That's why I love shopping it BiOptimizers.. Again, go to mag breakthrough.com/self work to get your magnesium breakthrough and find out this month's gift with purchase. Speaker 2: So now I'd like to introduce you to Dr. Zenobia Harris, head of the Arkansas Birthing Project, and a highly respected advocate for improving the care and support that all mothers receive, but especially moms of color who are the most at risk. Speaker 3: Dr. Harris The Arkansas Birthing Project is located in the main office is in Little Rock, but we do have birthing projects in various counties around Arkansas and primarily in southeast Arkansas. We primarily work with African American women and women of color. Yes. Speaker 2: So, but tell me about how long have you been the head of the birthing project and what do y'all do and talk about some maternal mortality issues. Speaker 3: Well, the Arkansas Birthing Project is an affiliate of Birthing Project, USA, which is a 40 year old black maternal and child health organization that originally formed in California Uhhuh , but it was founded by a woman from Arkansas. Really? Her name is Catherine Trujillo, and she was from Moscow, Arkansas. Yeah. But she was actually working for the California Department of Health and Human Services and was spending a huge amount of money as a fiscal agent on preterm Babies Care. Okay. And so she decided to do, conduct a social experiment with several of her friends. They decided to provide support to pregnant women during their pregnancy. There were, were 10 of them, and they each got a mentee, a little pregnant woman who they provided material and physical supports to during pregnancy and social supports, and they were astounded by the outcomes. Speaker 3: Traditionally statistically, the young women that they partnered with should have had really poor outcomes, and they didn't. The babies were born close to term or on term, the baby's weighed more than 5, 6, 5 and a half pounds at birth. Wow. they had a non-eventful delivery, and they did quite well after birth. And so they replicated this in that community several times and ended up at one, at, at later time, actually establishing a health clinic in a really at-risk community in the Sacramento area. And this kind of just sort of spread through informal networks. The, the idea of doing this well I, I saw Catherine when she came to Arkansas about, oh, about 10 years after she had founded the birthing project. She did a, a program for the March of Dimes, and I was mesmerized by the work she was doing. And so I became involved with the birthing project at that time. Yeah. And have been, had been working on it part-time until I actually retired from my work as a administrator with the Arkansas Department of Health and have been doing the birthing project full-time now in Arkansas since 2016. Speaker 2: I should add, you have your doctorate in nurse practitioner, Speaker 3: But we what we do is we go into local communities and train community women to provide support to women during their pregnancy. Speaker 2: What did those in initial mentors do? Or what is that? What does that support look like? Speaker 3: Well we primarily focus, of course, on social supports because many of the women that we interact with are women who identify as people who fall through the cracks. Perhaps they don't have a, a permanent place to live, or they have food insecurity, or they don't, they're not seeking prenatal care for various reasons because they don't know how to access it or they don't know have transportation, all those kinds of issues. Speaker 2: Too Expensive. They don't have insurance. Yeah, exactly. Speaker 3: Exactly. And some of them don't have family members to support them. They don't have close, you know people in their lives that will provide that support during this really special time in their lives. And so, our sister friends who are our mentors, we encourage them to become really familiar with the resources in their local communities. Okay. And to work with their little sisters to access those resources that she needs to have a good outcome. Okay. We require that the sister friends work with the little sisters to make sure they get a source of prenatal care and that they keep their prenatal appointments. If they have need transportation, help them work on identifying that we encourage our sister friends not to make your little sister dependent on you, but to encourage her to be independent. Speaker 2: That's an important point, isn't it? Wow. Yes. Speaker 3: Yes. Speaker 2: So what about postnatal care? Because I mean, you know, last week I did this episode on postpartum depression and found out that suicide and drug overdose is accounts for about 25% of the mortality deaths. Is that right? The maternal deaths? Is that correct? Speaker 3: Maternal? Yes, that's correct. Mental health related issues certainly have a huge impact. And unfortunately, some physical health issues also impact our maternal mortality issues such as undiagnosed health conditions such as diabetes, right. Cardiac disease, hypertension, which can lead to eclampsia, preeclampsia, and eclampsia, and which can be very fatal. And unfortunately for many African American women it is, Speaker 2: I'm so sorry. And the, the couple of articles, 84% of those deaths were preventable. Speaker 3: Yes. That is a, that is a huge tragedy for our communities. Huge, huge, huge tragedy and a huge loss of potential of human potential that could you know, be at work in these communities helping to improve the status of our communities. So it's a, it's a huge loss that we experience when these things happen. Speaker 2: Yes, it is. And as well as the children they bore, you know, so Yes. Speaker 3: Right. And unfortunately, sometimes we lose the babies as well. You know, we have the fourth highest infant mortality rate in the United States as well. Speaker 2: Do we really,? Speaker 3: Arkansas. Speaker 2: Wow. Speaker 2: Which are the states that are doing it better? What are the states that are doing it better and, and how are they doing it better? Speaker 3: Well as you, you may or may not be aware many states, over 30 of our states in the United States have extended the coverage for Medicaid for women postpartum. You know, in Arkansas, their postpartum coverage cuts off for women who are Medicaid eligible after the second, after two months after delivery. Oh my goodness. Well, many states - about 30 states - have extended that coverage for the first year of life because these deaths can often occur during the postpartum period. Many of them occur during the postpartum period when women don't have coverage. And what we, what they have found is that women will put off going to the doctor because they don't have money to pay for their care. And so they put off their symptoms and they'll deny their symptoms or delay, you know, seeking care until it's unfortunately too late. Speaker 2: What do you know for the mental health aspect of things? Speaker 3: Well, I think we, we do have a real acute shortage of mental health providers in our state, as you probably are very well aware mm-hmm. , and there's some parts of our state that are worse than others. And so dealing with that, in addition to some of the stigma that is associated with seeking psychological care and support is something that we've got to address as a society. Speaker 2: Now, if I read some of the articles disagreed with one another about this, so let me ask you... I read in one article that the mental health problems, suicide and drug overdose were more prevalent in minority women than white women. And then another article, it said, no, they're about the same. Speaker 3: They're about the same. Okay. In my experience. Okay. Speaker 2: Okay. Yes. Speaker 3: Yeah, yeah. You know, we have the first trimester, second trimester, third trimester is, you know, when during the time the baby is born. Sure. And then, of course, that fourth trimester, which is the period, the immediate period after birth, actually that first year after birth of the baby. I think something that we need to make some distinctions about, or what we call baby blues. Have you heard that terminology, baby blues? Speaker 2: Oh, yes, of course. Speaker 3: Have, mm-hmm. versus postpartum depression. And I think sometimes people get those things confused. In the baby blues, you know, a little bit of melancholy and uncertainty and perhaps a little depression after birth because of all this tremendous hormonal and body changes that are occurring. If it lasts longer than two weeks, then we're really talking about postpartum depression. Speaker 2: And speaking of that, there is a, a, a medication that has just been FDA approved for postpartum depression, specifically for postpartum depression. Now I'm real excited about that. But, you know, my, my podcast goes well, I have listeners from all over the world, but certainly all over the United States. What, what could a woman do or, or a friend of someone who's pregnant? What are all these, is it called the Tennessee Birthing Project? Is it called the Mississippi Birthing Project? What, what are the, or the California, whatever it is, how can people plug themselves in or plug people in that they, that they know and love into these kinds of programs? Speaker 3: Well, the birthing project is just one of many opportunities I think we have available in our local communities to provide support to women during this really critical time. You know, there's been a lot of discussion about community doulas as well, and the supports that they provide. Yes. And I think there's room for everyone. The birthing project specifically, we identify people who are lay people. They don't necessarily have to be trained medical people, and they don't necessarily have to have any kind of certification, but we work with them and support them so that they can in turn, feel free and empowered to support a, an individual person basically like becoming a, a good friend of that person. Okay. A reliable and trustworthy friend. And Birthing Project USA, which is based out of Albuquerque, New Mexico is sort of the hub where people go to get information to establish birthing projects in other states. There are even some international birthing projects in Cuba in Ghana and other foreign nations. Speaker 2: Can you tell the audience what, what a doula is? Speaker 3: Well, a doula is an individual who is specially trained and experienced to provide to women at doing support during very critical times, either during their pregnancy, during labor and delivery postpartum. And there are even some some bereavement doulas who actually provide specialized support to real, recognize important needs that women and their families have as well. Mm-Hmm. , and to provide those supports to them to make sure that they have good pregnancy outcomes. So they are right there with women in the delivery area. They're that other voice in that other set of eyes and hands in that area and space that women need often when they're going through this real critical period, because as you know, it's very stressful and often, sometimes decisions have to be made pretty quickly, and it is good to have someone there who is very focused on the needs and the desires of the woman involved Right. During this real critical period. Speaker 2: Right. So if people wanted to either volunteer or donate, they could go to the Birthing Project, USA Speaker 3: Or the Arkansas Birthing Project if they're in Arkansas. Speaker 2: Sure, sure, sure. Mm-Hmm. . Well, yeah. Most, a lot of my listeners are New Yorkers and California people. So Speaker 3: Birthing Project USA. it's listed they do have a web, there's a website Birthing Project USA, and we'd be happy, they can indicate that they're interested in more information, and we'd be happy to get in touch with them. Arkansas has been asked to do some of the training for Birthing Project U S A because they appreciate the model that we have in our state. We're the only state that has multiple birthing projects in different counties compared to some of the other, you may have just one birthing project in one particular area in their state. Speaker 2: I have a sneaking suspicion that's about you, Speaker 3: . Well, I'm, I'm very passionate about this work. I'm very committed to it. And I just want to make sure that our next generation is prepared to provide supports that women need during this really important time in our lives. We're building our communities and we want to make sure that we get the full benefit of every person, the full humanity of every person in our communities safely delivered into this in our communities, and safely ensconced in our communities empowered to achieve the goals that God has set before them so that they can be full functioning citizens in our society. Speaker 2: I, I couldn't, well, very well said and eloquently said, by the way, so I'm so glad you could come on. And I hope to, again, it's Birthing Project USA or in if you live in Arkansas, it's the Arkansas Birthing Project. This is Dr. Zenobia Harris, and I'm delighted, absolutely delighted that you've joined me today. Thank you so very much, Speaker 3: Dr. Margaret. Can I do one more plug You regarding Every Mother Counts. Every Mother Counts has been very generous working with us. They actually have produced a film called Giving Birth in America, Arkansas. Oh. And we are encouraging people to access that film. It can be accessed on Every Mother Counts website to schedule viewings of the, of the film. And if you are interested in having a discussion groups set aside, we can certainly arrange that for you too, because we want people to talk about this very important issue of maternal mortality in our state and come together on solutions for this very important issue. Speaker 2: What is the name of it again? Because I will put it in the show notes. Speaker 3: Giving Birth in America, Arkansas, and it's on the Every Mother Counts website. Speaker 2: Okay. I got it. Speaker 3: Thank you. And thank you to Every Mother Counts too, for their support. Speaker 2: Yeah. They seem like an incredible organization. Speaker 3: Well, thank you so much, Dr. Margaret. Speaker 2: Of course. Of course. Anytime. Speaker 3: All right, let's stay in touch. I'm sure you were as impressed with Dr. Harris as I am and was. Please reach out to her and all the organizations. Most states are gonna have some sort of support group like this as well as Every Mother Counts. That's a national organization, and I bet there are others. I know that not everyone who listens to SelfWork is from the United States, so please look around for help that you might need and benefit from. As usual, thank you for being here. It's an exciting week. My TED Talk has reached a hundred thousand views and many of you are probably those who have viewed it. So I want to thank you very much. We've got a lot of plans for the fall, and I can't wait to begin to introduce them to you. Thank you. Thank you for being here. Please take care of yourself, your family, and your community. I'm Dr. Margaret, and this has been self work. .    

On today's show, a new Arkansas law removing the work permit requirement for 14- and 15-year-olds took effect earlier this month. Also, Arkansas Department of Education officials decided it would no longer recognize Advanced Placement African American History for course credit in the state. Plus, lessons from the Militant Grammarian and a new episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas.

SummaryOn this episode of The Bentonville Beacon, host James Bell sits down with Dr. Debbie Jones, Superintendent of Bentonville Schools. Previously, Dr. Jones served as Assistant Commissioner for Learning Services at the Arkansas Department of Education where she led its largest unit, which worked to enact educational legislation. Additionally, James is joined by Teresa Hudson, Immediate Past Director of Bentonville Schools' Ignite Professional Studies, a program that provides relevant learning experiences in collaboration with regional businesses, nonprofits and industry professionals. Throughout the episode, James, Debbie and Teresa discuss why Bentonville Schools ranks amongst the top 2 percent in the nation, the school system's leadership in workforce development and the incredible opportunities offered to students through the Ignite Professional Studies program.Thanks for tuning in!Show NotesTimestamps in this blog are for the audio-only version of the podcast; video timing differs.(0:47) Introduction to Dr. Debbie Jones and Teresa Hudson(5:54) Bentonville Schools' National Rankings and Statistics(12:40) About Ignite Professional Studies(20:24) An Ignite Success Story(24:51) How Ignite Will Continue to Evolve(27:52) More Bentonville School Programs(30:26) Local Ignite Partners(38:28) How Bentonville Helps Debbie and Teresa Live Their Best Lives(51:36) #BecauseBentonville Story‍LinksJames Bell Bentonville Economic Development Dr. Debbie JonesBentonville SchoolsTeresa HudsonIgnite Professional StudiesNot mentioned in episode: Ignite's new Director, Jessica ImelQuotes“Our employees, they don't just do it for the money. They do it because they truly love students, and they do whatever it takes to get kids proficient as they should, to master the content, to be the very best musicians, or the best athletes, whatever that may be.” - Dr. Debbie Jones, (6:59)“In [Ignite Professional Studies], we hope to provide college credit for all our students to do certifications and to have internships. We feel like that's the perfect blend of college career training that we want all our students to graduate with. What we hope to achieve is that they make better selections of what they want to do after high school.” - Teresa Hudson, (13:17)“That social piece, having friends, having a supportive network, is linked with longevity. And we have that here…all the city leaders are present and they reach out and will help each other because we all want to be very inclusive. We welcome people here, and we want everybody to be successful.” - Dr. Debbie Jones, (38:29)“Everyone cares about everything and they want all of it to be good. So I feel like that's just the essence of Bentonville is that we're all in it together and we all are looking for excellence in everything we do. And we're proud, really proud to live here.” - Teresa Hudson, (52:55)

Arkansans who seek to re-enroll are required to prove eligibility while the Arkansas Department of Human Services reviews Medicaid enrollees protected during the federal public health emergency. Because Marshallese migrants in late 2020 were granted federal Medicaid entitlement, many might be unaware of state redetermination requirements proving need. Also, children's music and books, and a conversation about Mother's Day from the KUAF Listening Lab are included in today's show.

On today's show, David Sedaris will be at the Walton Arts Center tomorrow night. Also, a new law shifts authority over liquid animal waste management systems from the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality to the Arkansas Department of Agriculture. Plus, archives from the David and Barbara Pryor Center for Arkansas Oral and Visual History, and more.

Earlier this month, Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders signed HB1410, known as the "Youth Hiring Act of 2023." Most controversially, the bill allows teenagers under the age of 16 to start a job without getting a work permit through the Arkansas Department of Labor and Licensing. Also, a reader asks about the topics I don't like writing about. You can read today's podcast here, today's “Under the Radar” story here. Today's clickables: Quick Hits (1:31), Today's Story (3:12), Right's Take (5:34), Left's Take (9:26), Isaac's Take (13:46 ), Your Questions Answered (18:50), Under the Radar (20:46), Numbers (21:44), Have A Nice Day (22:24) You can subscribe to Tangle by clicking here or drop something in our tip jar by clicking here. Our podcast is written by Isaac Saul and edited by Zosha Warpeha. Music for the podcast was produced by Diet 75. Our newsletter is edited by Bailey Saul, Sean Brady, Ari Weitzman, and produced in conjunction with Tangle's social media manager Magdalena Bokowa, who also created our logo. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tanglenews/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tanglenews/support

On today's show, Jim Harter is a volunteer for FindAGrave.com and so far, he has captured at least 9,000 images. Also, Arkansas unemployment number dips, the Arkansas Department of Health reveals an infectious disease dashboard, the history of Bessie Moore and more.

Dr. Steven Weber is the Associate Superintendent for Teaching and Learning. He brings more than 20 years of experience to the district having previously served as the Executive Director for Curriculum and Instruction with Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools (NC). During his career, he has served as a teacher, assistant principal, principal, director of secondary, and executive director of curriculum and instruction. Weber's professional experience includes serving as a curriculum director with the Arkansas Department of Education and the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction.   Weber serves on the Executive Cabinet for Fayetteville Public Schools and provides leadership by working with teachers, administrators, and staff. He works with teachers from each of the district's sixteen schools to review programs, develop curriculum, and analyze district inputs and outputs. Weber leads the Office of Teaching and Learning and works with building principals to support continuous improvement. His areas of leadership include academic achievement, instructional strategies, formative assessment, leadership development, professional learning, continuous improvement, and collaborating with families to support students.     Show Highlights   Burning a bridge with a parent helped to create strategies to build empathy and respect with people we don't agree with. Tips to navigate the turbulent waters between confidence and the imposter syndrome. Leadership is about customer service. Prioritize dialogue and conversation over conflict and disrespect when facing highly energized people. Steven's instructional leadership program that builds a pipeline for leaders.  Schools are in a service industry.  Make sure your first touch point is a welcoming experience.  The message you need to remember when communicating to an audience.      “As a community, we should embrace our schools, embrace our teachers and our principals. We should embrace the positive impact that a school can have on a community. We don't need to destroy our schools through public rhetoric, but we do need to have conversation and dialogue. And that dialogue is hard to have at a school board meeting, which is only designed for public comments.” -Steven Weber   Get the episode transcript here!! Steven Weber's Resources & Contact Info: Twitter Linkedin email: steven.weber@g.fayar.net Kyle Wagner - Transform Educational    Read my latest book! Learn why the ABCs of powerful professional development™ work – Grow your skills by integrating more Authenticity, Belonging, and Challenge into your life and leadership.   Read Mastermind: Unlocking Talent Within Every School Leader today! Apply to the Mastermind The mastermind is changing the landscape of professional development for school leaders.    100% of our members agree that the mastermind is the #1 way they grow their leadership skills.   Apply to the mastermind today!   SHOW SPONSORS: HARVARD GRADUATE SCHOOL OF EDUCATION Transform how you lead to become a resilient and empowered change agent with Harvard's online Certificate in School Management and Leadership. Grow your professional network with a global cohort of fellow school leaders as you collaborate in case studies bridging the fields of education and business. Apply today at http://hgse.me/leader.   TEACHFX Imagine providing feedback for every teacher, as often as they'd like, without relying on classroom observations.   TeachFX is an app that supports both student learning and teacher learning. With instructional support at the push of a button, our app provides teachers with objective, personalized, non evaluative feedback about the teaching and learning happening in their classrooms.   From student talk and teacher talk to insights into research-supported teaching practices like questioning technique, wait time, and more, TeachFX provides teachers with new insights into student engagement, academic dialogue, and equity of student voice.   Learn more about TeachFX and find out how to get a free TeachFX account for one of your teachers. Visit TeachFX | BLBS     ORGANIZED BINDER Organized Binder is the missing piece in many classrooms. Many teachers are great with the main content of the lesson. Organized Binder helps with powerful introductions, savvy transitions, and memorable lesson closings. Your students will grow their executive functioning skills (and as a bonus), your teachers will become more organized too. Help your students and staff level up with Organized Binder.   Copyright © 2022 Twelve Practices LLC      

Jennifer Tarwater is the founder and Executive Director of In His Wings Ministry--a faith-based women's rehabilitation ministry. Jennifer battled Hodgkins Lymphoma at age 28. Throughout her teens and twenties, she drinking heavily and smoking marijuana, and her first experience with meth was at 29. This downward spiral ultimately landed her in prison. On January 9, 2013, Jennifer landed in the Agape House, and she graduated the following year. She now leads a life-changing organization that helps women through the same kinds of struggles and addictions. Jennifer says, "You don't have to live at the bottom of the pit any more. You are worth it." In His Wings is a 9-month program for women. They are partnered with the Arkansas Department of Corrections' re-entry program and currently have 57 women enrolled in the program. For more information, visit https://inhiswingsministry.com.

Strong opposition to recreational marijuana proposal on ballot; Arkansas Department of Corrections look for new prison site; Reward for votes is under investigation; Demand getting back to normal for Remington Ammunition; Powerball ticket worth $2 million sold in Wooster

The Arkansas Department of Corrections wants another prison; Democrat state auditor candidate faced an arrest warrant earlier this month; Head of the Central Arkansas Library System is supporting the system in Craighead County; Alexander motorcyclist engulfed in flames said to be in good condition

This year the Visit Bentonville teamed up with Arkansas State Tourism, Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism, and The House of Songs to attend the 2022 AMERICANAFEST in Nashville, Tennessee. This year, the Americana Music Association selected the state of Arkansas as the regional music focus for its 22nd annual AMERICANAFEST. In partnership with Arkansas Tourism and Visit Bentonville, the destination music festival and conference event included special programming that featured multiple panels, special events, and an Arkansas music showcase over four days. Highlights include a panel focusing on the life and legacy of Johnny Cash; a special event with the brightest, upcoming Arkansan artists that are pushing the Americana genre forward; and an evening showcase of music with a star-studded tribute to Levon Helm.Tune into this episode to hear more about the team's experience, Arkansas' role in American music, and some local artists you'll want to keep an eye on! 

With football season in full swing, Justin Dorsey, manager of War Memorial Stadium in Little Rock, joins Rex Nelson on this week's episode of the Southern Fried Podcast. Dorsey and Nelson discuss the future of Arkansas college football at War Memorial, the stadium’s expanding role as the hub of high school football in the state, and the growing number of out-of-state college games hosted there. The lights don’t go out at War Memorial after football season, either. From soccer matches and concerts, to charity events and birthday parties, Dorsey and his staff are busy year-round. Dorsey, a former police officer and state park superintendent, has been managing the stadium since 2019 under the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism.

Public health may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about rural healthcare.  However public health officials have worked alongside rural health professionals to engage rural communities for years. Today we are talking with Gina Gulley, Health Program Specialist for the Arkansas Office of Rural Health, and Primary Care within the Arkansas Department of Health. Gina will discuss her transition into public health and how her work impacts rural hospitals.  “Allow yourself to be uncomfortable because that uncomfortable place is where growth happens.” -Gina Gulley Gina Gulley is a Malvern, Arkansas native who currently works as a rural health program coordinator at the Arkansas Department of Health's Office of Rural Health and Primary Care. In this role, she is responsible for the overall direction of three federal rural health grants that are used to serve Arkansas' small rural hospitals.  Before entering the public health field, Gina was a middle school science teacher who empowered children, exposing them to STEM and healthcare careers. She obtained her Master of Public Health from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, as well as her Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences from Arkansas State University. Because of her commitment to public health, she is always looking for opportunities to expand her knowledge. She is passionate about strengthening rural health infrastructure and improving patient care in Arkansas.

This week on Water in Food is Dr. Jennifer Acuff from the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture. She's also an assistant professor of food microbiology and safety in the department of food science at Dale Bumpers College. Currently, her focus is microbial contamination in low-moisture foods, including products like spices, nuts, dried fruits, and powders. Her goal is to expand the body of knowledge about pathogen contamination in low-moisture foods and conduct applied research that provides real solutions. Then, she will also identify ways to present food safety training to help small food processors in order to comply with the Food Safety Modernization Act.  Hear what Dr. Acuff has to say on Water in Food.

Though student engagement has always been essential to teaching and learning, the pandemic has impacted students in ways that raise questions about what it takes to engage students this term. In this episode, we invited a panel of educators to share their updated thinking on student engagement in a post-pandemic classroom. Resources: Flipped Learning Global Initiative (FLGI) Follow our PLN on Twitter: @AngelaMaiers @jaymctighe @curriculumblog @MsRandazzo @ideasforteacher @bamradionetwork @jonharper70bd Angela Maiers has been listed as one of IBM's Top 20 Global Influencers, named by Forbes as one of the Top 5 Education Leaders to Watch, in 2017 and 2018, and is among Huffington Post's Top 100 Social Media Influencers! Angela founded the global movement, Choose2Matter in 2014, with a singular mission to help individuals recognize their value and potential contribution to change both their own lives and the world. Her work has been shared in 78,000 classrooms across 100 countries that has rallied more than a million children. Brian Smith has taught at Triton Central Elementary for over 20 years in both 1st and 4th-grade classrooms. In addition to that, Brian is the co-director of the 4th-12th grade NASP archery program at Triton Central. At home, Brian is the father of 7th-grade twins and loves to spend time in his woodworking shop. Jay McTighe has co-authored 14 books, including the award-winning and best-selling Understanding by Design series with Grant Wiggins. He recently co-authored Teaching for Deeper Learning: Tools to Engage Students in Meaning Making with Harvey Silver. He is the director of the Maryland Assessment Consortium, a state collaboration of school districts working together to develop and share formative performance assessments. Dr. Steven Weber serves as the Associate Superintendent for Teaching and Learning in Fayetteville Public Schools (Arkansas). During his career in public education, he has served as a teacher, assistant principal, principal, director of secondary instruction, and executive director of curriculum and instruction. He has also served as a social studies curriculum coordinator with the Arkansas Department of Education and the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction. Karen Randazzo is an enthusiastic chemistry teacher in New Jersey. She believes that every student has the power to learn anything, even chemistry. Chemistry teacher by day, teacher-author by night, she's dedicated to making teachers' lives more manageable by offering professional development, sharing her engaging resources on her website, and collaborating with educators on various social media platforms. A former ‘chalk and talk' teacher, she shares her journey navigating the Next Generation Science Standards and student-centered learning on her YouTube channel.

Arkansas' hospitalized COVID patients again top 400 while active cases decline; the state Legislative Council's decided path toward teacher and staff bonuses; Arkansas Department of Human Services Division of Youth Services moving juveniles

Public health has evolved greatly over time, particularly in rural healthcare over the past few years as the COVID-19 pandemic took place. This week, we're having a conversation with Samantha Wells who tells us all about her experience with rural healthcare, public health in rural areas, the impact of the pandemic, and how she's working to make a difference.  “You have way more power and influence than you feel. That's what I want everybody to remember – just because you come from a small town or small rural area, it doesn't mean you cannot make a difference.” ~Samantha Wells Samantha Wells is a 2nd year Doctor of Public Health (DrPH, Health Leadership) student at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. She currently serves as a Graduate Research Assistant for the Arkansas Department of Health's Office of Health Equity and HIV Elimination. She has previously served as the Program Manager for Health Help Mississippi, an initiative of the Mississippi Health Advocacy Program. Ms. Wells graduated from the University of Southern Mississippi with a Master of Public Health degree in 2017 and a Bachelor of Science in Public Health degree in 2015, both with a Health Policy/Administration concentration.  At USM, Samantha was recognized for her commitment to Public Health with the 2017 Alton B. Cobb Outstanding Master of Public Health Award. Samantha became Certified in Public Health (CPH) by the National Board of Public Health Examiners in 2019. Driven by her commitment to improving public health in rural, minority communities, Ms. Wells is passionate about her efforts with improving health equity and eliminating health disparities.

Guest Bio: Nicolas D. Williams is an 8th grade English Teacher at J. A. Fair K-8 Preparatory School in the Little Rock School District. He states that his personal philosophy is serving others, providing for his family, and making the most of his opportunities. His professional philosophy, he insists, "is teaching children of yesterday, today, and tomorrow. This involves expanding my expertise as a professional educator and contributing to society by learning new skills that will ensure academic achievement and growth among students." Mr. Williams is a Career Professional Educator (as designated by the Arkansas Department of Education) who was most recently named the 2022 Teacher of the Year at J. A. Fair K-8 Preparatory School. Previously, he was named the 2019 Teacher of the Year at Horace Mann Arts & Science Magnet Middle School, 2020 LifeChanger of the Year Spirit Award Winner, a 2020 Amazing Educator by Little Rock Family magazine, and was selected as one of the 40 Amazing Black Male Educators from across the country to be featured in the inaugural issue of the UpLIFT Legacy magazine. To read more about him, you may check out the following features: https://www.lifechangeroftheyear.com/201920-winners, https://www.littlerockfamily.com/post/129420/little-rock-family-presents-the-amazing-educators-of-2020, and https://www.amazon.com/UpLIFT-premier-visual-black-educators/dp/B08F6Y57NP You can also follow him on social media at @nicdelane (Twitter), keyunta97 (Instagram), and https://ww.facebook.com/nicolasdw2(Facebook). For More Information: To learn more about this podcast or the host, reach out to Stacey McAdoo by visiting www.stillstacey.com. You may also email her at 2019atoy@gmail.com or direct message her at @2019atoy on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/stacey-mcadoo/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/stacey-mcadoo/support