COVID-19 ANNOUNCEMENTS:
SMALL BUSINESS WEBINARS WITH CONDUCTOR
Conductor is a public-private partnership between the
University of Central Arkansas and StartUp Junking who over strategic small
business consulting. Their mission is to empower, encourage, and grow our
entrepreneurial ecosystem in Arkansas. Amidst COVID-19, Conductor events have
moved to free digital webinars and all are invited to attend. Please RSVP at www.eventbrite.com or at www.facebook.com/arconductor. For
more information, please email grace@arconductor.org.
·
June 10th, 12 PM: Branches Lab will
discuss how to create compelling email marketing campaigns to create customers
·
June 11th, 12 PM: Jeff Amerine, Jeff
Standridge, and Glenn Crocket return for Part Three of their 4-part
Accelerating Through a Slow Down series
·
June 17th, 12 PM: Bryan Fittin of Go
Rogue X will teach entrepreneurs how to create compelling videos for your
business
·
June 18th, 12 PM: Jeff Amerine, Jeff
Standridge, and Glenn Crocket return for the final installation of their 4-part
Accelerating Through a Slow Down series
·
June 24th, 12 PM: Wiliam Staley and
his Thrive team will discuss the differences between branding and marketing to
zone in on your businesses’ visual identity system
·
June 30th, 11 AM: Martha Londagin
will review options for small business funding for women entrepreneurs
·
July 1st, 12 PM: Kait Hill of Rock
City Digital will show you how to optimize your Google My Business listing and
manage it on a monthly basis
SUMMER FOOD 4 KIDS
River Valley Food 4 Kids (RVF4K) begins their Summer Food 4
Kids program on June 2nd. Every Tuesday & Wednesday throughout
the summer, RVF4K will host weekly distributions in Russellville, Pottsville,
Dardanelle, Atkins, Dover, and Danville. To learn more, please visit River Valley Food 4 Kids on Facebook.
If you’d like to register (at any time) for Summer Food 4 Kids, please visit https://www.rivervalleyfood4kids.org/summer-registration.
BOYS & GIRLS CLUB SUMMER FOOD DISTRIBUTION
The Russellville & Dardanelle
Boys & Girls Clubs will continue serving food each weekday throughout the
summer, effective June 1st. In Russellville anyone is welcome to
drive up to the Boys & Girls Club (600 E. 16th St.) and get
meals delivered to their car from 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM, Monday-Friday. Please
call ahead to reserve your meals at 479-968-7819 and be patient as other
patrons are served. In Dardanelle, families will be served drive-thru style
Monday-Friday from 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM at the Dardanelle High School, no call
ahead necessary. For Dardanelle families, the school district will also be
serving meals their students and families, so you can pick up meals from each
entity. For more information, please follow the Boys
& Girls Clubs of the Arkansas River Valley on Facebook.
ATKINS CITY POOL
RE-OPENS
Atkins Mayor Rowdy
Sweet stated that the Atkins City Pool will open for the summer on Tuesday,
June 2nd and patrons will comply with social distancing. Pool passes
are available at Atkins City Hall.
POTTSVILLE WATER BILLING
Effective June 15th, the Pottsville City Hall
will resume the normal late fee processing for bills due on June 15th
or after. Disconnects for nonpayment will resume on July 1st. If you
have a past due balance and need to discuss your options you can call the water
department at 479-968-3029, option 1, to avoid service interruptions.
DARDANELLE FARMER’S MARKET
On Saturday, June 6th, the Dardanelle Farmers
Market will open to the public and will practice social distancing. Masks will
be on-site and encouraged, as well as hand sanitization. For more details about
vendors or other restrictions, please visit the Dardanelle Farmers Market page
on Facebook.
POPE COUNTY FARMER’S MARKET
The Pope County Farmers Market is open for the 2020 season
at Depot Park in Downtown Russellville. The Saturday morning market runs from 8
AM – 1 PM and the Tuesday evening market runs from 4-7 PM. For more information,
or to get in touch with coordinators, please follow the Pope County Farmers
Market page on Facebook.
RUSSELLVILLE COMMUNITY MARKET
The Russellville Community Market (RCM) is an online farmer’s
market operating year-round. Many of the vendors you know and love with
traditional markets can still be shopped from with RCM as well. The market is
open for ordering Fridays at 12 PM through Sundays at 10 PM, then patrons pick
up and pay for their order on Tuesday evenings from 4-8 PM at the Train Depot
in Downtown Russellville. (No payment or financial information is submitted
online.) Sign up online to become a free member at www.russellville.locallygrown.net
and start ordering farm-fresh food for your family this weekend!
SWIMMING AREAS CLOSED
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Russellville Project Office has closed the swimming areas at Piney Bay and Shoal Bay parks located on Lake Dardanelle, until further notice. The temporary closure is the result of higher than acceptable E-Coli levels that were found during routine testing conducted by the Arkansas Department of Health. The Corps has posted signs indicating high bacteria levels at these locations. Testing will continue on a daily basis, and the swim beaches will be re-opened as soon as test results indicate it is safe to do so.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Russellville Project Office has closed the swimming areas at Piney Bay and Shoal Bay parks located on Lake Dardanelle, until further notice. The temporary closure is the result of higher than acceptable E-Coli levels that were found during routine testing conducted by the Arkansas Department of Health. The Corps has posted signs indicating high bacteria levels at these locations. Testing will continue on a daily basis, and the swim beaches will be re-opened as soon as test results indicate it is safe to do so.
STATE PARK CAMPING
Tent camping will open in all Arkansas State Parks beginning
on Monday, June 1, announced Stacy Hurst, secretary of the Arkansas Department
of Parks, Heritage and Tourism. Lodges, cabins, YURTs, and Rent-A-RV had been
limited to Friday through Monday only rental. They will now be available for
weekday reservations with some restrictions to ensure proper cleaning. Campground
reservations may be made online by going to www.ArkansasStateParks.com or
by calling a specific park. Campers may check in at the Visitor Center (cloth
face-coverings or masks are required inside public buildings) or by calling the
park directly. Park staff will check-in campers remotely prior to their arrival
when possible. Learn more at https://bit.ly/2Atune6.
JOHNSON COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
Johnson County Sheriff Jimmy Stephens reminds that the lobby
of the Johnson County Detention Center will reopen on Monday, June 1st on a
limited basis for video visitation with inmates. To schedule a visit, go to www.videovisit.ncic.com. Only one person will be allowed per
scheduled visit. Sheriff Stephens said on the department's Facebook page,
"This is a trial basis and we ask for your patience as we attempt to
loosen restrictions. Please note the health and welfare of our inmates and
staff are our first concern."
NEIGHBORS TABLE
All Saints’ Episcopal Church of Russellville welcomes
everyone to their Neighbors Table Drive Thru! Every Saturday during COVID-19,
lunch will be provided for everyone from 11 AM – 12:30 drive thru style at All
Saints’, located at 501 S. Phoenix Ave. For more information, please call
479-968-3622.
RUSSELLVILLE ROLLER GIRLS
The Women’s Flat Track Derby Association has recommended
tier phases for roller derby teams to return to practice. Using those
guidelines, the Russellville Roller Girls will return to practice on Sunday,
May 24th, at 7:30 PM at Merritt Park in Dardanelle. Practices will
follow every Tuesday and Sunday at 7:30 PM. Note: as kids’ team sports are
still on hold in the current Arkansas phase, the Junior Team will have to be
patient for a while longer. More announcements to follow on the Russellville
Roller Girls Facebook page.
ARKANSAS 30 DAY GRANT FUND
The Arkansas 30 Day Fund will begin accepting applications on
Monday, May 18th. The forgivable-loan program will provide up to $3,000 to entrepreneurs
in Arkansas. The nonpartisan/nonprofit effort led by former White House press
secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders has received more than $100,000 in donations
so far. The requirements for the funding are as follows:
• Business employs three to thirty people.
• Business must have been in operation for at least one
year.
• Business must be owned and operated by an Arkansan.
• Applicants will need to submit a copy of W-9 IRS forms, a
business license, and a short video
For more information or to apply, please visit www.arkansas30dayfund.com.
POPE COUNTY LIBRARY SYSTEM RE-OPENING
The Pope County Library System (PCLS) has announced that
their Russellville branch will re-open on Monday, May 18th with
various safety restrictions:
* Patrons will be required to wash and sanitize their hands
before entering the building.
* Anyone using a computer will be required to wear a mask
and gloves, but all are encouraged to do so regardless.
* Limit of 30 patrons in the building at one time, with
social distancing enforced.
* There will be four 15-minute computers available for use.
Appointments must be made for all computer use longer than 15 minutes, with
priority given to things that are work, Census, school, or financial-related.
* Curbside book pickup still available.
For more information, please call 479-968-4368 or follow the
Pope County Library System on Facebook.
HUGHES COMMUNITY CENTER RE-OPENING
The Russellville Recreation and Parks Department have opened
the Hughes Community Center today, May 18th, with limited hours and occupancy.
The Hughes Center will be open Monday-Friday from 8 AM - 4 PM, with all federal
and state guidelines that pertain to re-opening indoor venues being followed.
Pickleball play (only) will take place from 8 AM - 12 PM and basketball can be
played from 12:30-4 PM. Visitors must bring their own equipment, including
basketballs. Basketball play will be limited to shooting only, no pick-up games
or practices. If you have questions or would like more information, please call
479-968-1272.
POPE COUNTY CITY OFFICES RE-OPENING
Pope County Judge Ben Cross said this week that, following
the guidance of the Governor's office, county government will begin reopening
to public traffic in various stages over the next month. Now open, the Senior
Activity Center with limited activities. No dine in meals will yet be served.
* May 11th: County Road Department administrative offices
* May 18th: All Pope County Library branches
* June 1st: Pope County courthouse offices
* May 18th: All Pope County Library branches
* June 1st: Pope County courthouse offices
Judge Cross said that emergency services such as the
Sheriff's office, 911, and Pope County EMS will further assess the situation on
June 1st.
LOCAL BALL PARKS
Pottsville Mayor Randy Tankersley issued a statement on
Friday stating that city recreation officials have been visiting with local
coaches and health officials and believe it safe enough to open the Pottsville
City Ball Park on Monday, May 11th for team practices. Games will start on June
1st and social distancing guidelines will be required to be followed as set by
the Governor. City playground equipment and Rankin Park will remain closed
until June 1st. Dover Mayor Roger Lee also announced that their city ball parks
will open for practice on May 11th as well, with games to get
underway June 1st, if restrictions allow.
BUFFALO NATIONAL RIVER
Visitors will soon be floating the Buffalo National River
and hiking trails in the park. Beginning May 15, the national park will resume
day-use-only access to the river and all trails within the park, except for
Lost Valley Trail, according to a news release. All established campgrounds in
the park will remain closed for now, along with gravel bar and backcountry
camping within park boundaries, according to the news release. The park’s
headquarters in Harrison will remain closed, as will the visitor centers and
contact stations at Tyler Bend, Steel Creek and Buffalo Point.
CANCELLED EVENTS
Concern over the COVID-19 pandemic has already resulted in
the cancellation for two 2020 major summer events in the Valley. People for a
Better Atkins announced that Picklefest has been cancelled. Also effected, The
Museum of Automobiles on Petit Jean Mountain, where they've made the decision
to cancel the June 2020 Car Show and Swap Meet. If you currently have a space
reserved for the 2020 show, you will be able to roll that space over to next
year's show or the museum can process a refund. Next year's show is scheduled
for June 16th-19th.
ARKANSAS PLACES OF WORSHIP RE-OPENING (May 4th)
Governor Asa Hutchinson has announced that places of worship
in Arkansas will re-open on May 4th with the following restrictions:
·
Online platforms strongly encouraged
·
Sanitize common areas
·
Face coverings worn at all times inside by
anyone over the age of 10
·
6-foot physical distancing except for family
members
·
Signs advise no entry if recent, fever, symptoms
or contact with positive patient
·
No classes for youth or childcare
·
Refrain from having people come forward to
common altar rail for Holy Communion, blessing, etc.
·
Eliminate use of items touched by multiple
people, like offering plate/shared books
·
No physical contact
·
Lines for entry/exit monitored for distancing
·
Refreshments offered outdoors only
·
"Meet & Greet" times moved outside
as possible
·
Hand sanitizing at entrances
·
Worship leaders addressing congregation and
performing singers may take off face mask
·
12-foot physical distance required at these times
ARKANSAS LARGE OUTDOOR VENUES RE-OPENING (May 4th)
Governor Asa Hutchinson has announced that large outdoor
venues in Arkansas, such as arenas, sports venues, race tracks, stadiums,
amusement centers, and fairgrounds will re-open on May 4th with the following
restrictions:
·
12-foot distance between performers, audience
·
50 or fewer performers/players/contestants
·
Audience of 50 or fewer people
·
6-foot distancing in seating, except for family
groups
·
Lines marked/monitored for distancing
·
Every other row should be unoccupied
·
Face covering required for anyone over 10 years
old
·
If 12-foot distancing maintained from all
others, no face covering required for performer/player/contestant
·
Signs should advise no entry if any symptoms or
contact with positive patient
·
Hand sanitizer stations at all entrances/exits
·
Refreshments allowed, but no self service
·
Facility including seating cleaned before/after
each use
ARKANSAS GYM/FITNESS CENTER RE-OPENING (May 4th)
Beginning on May 4th, gyms and fitness centers
will be able to open their doors in Arkansas, with certain restrictions:
• Screening for staff and patrons
• No entry for recent travelers to
New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, New Orleans and overseas, or those with
fever, symptoms, or recent contact with a COVID-19 patient.
• Temperature checks for staff
• Face coverings for staff and
patrons, except when actively exercising
• No pools, spas, showers, or
saunas
• Hand sanitizer must be available
• Equipment sanitized after each
use
• 12-foot distancing while working
and during training sessions or classes
• No personal contact
ARKANSAS HAIR SALON/BARBERSHOP/BODY ART FACILITIES
RE-OPENING (May 6th)
Beginning on May 6th, salons, barbershops,
cosmetology facilities, massage therapy, body art, and medical spa services
will be able to resume in Arkansas with certain restrictions:
• Ten or fewer people in the
facility
• No more than 30% of stations in
operation at once
• No walk-in appointments
• Clients should wait outside or in
cars until ready
• Time should be set between
appointments for station cleaning
• 6-foot distancing between clients
• Client names and contact
information must be recorded
For other restrictions and a link to a free webinar for
cosmetology professional can be found on the Arkansas Department of Health
Facebook page.
ARKANSAS RESTAURANT RE-OPENING (May 11th)
Governor Asa Hutchinson announced Wednesday that restaurants
in Arkansas will open for limited dine-in services beginning on May 11th.
Although restaurants may resume dine-in service, the Governor announced several
limitations will be a part of the phase one roll out:
• Physical distancing between
patrons and tables
• 33% occupancy rate allowed
• Reservations encouraged
• Patrons and employees are
required to wear face coverings
• Gloves for staff
• Daily staff screenings
• Frequent hand-washing
• Pre-order when possible
• No groups over 10 people
• Senior hour encouraged
• No self-service
• Clean, disinfect tables and menus
after each meal
• Bars and entertainment within
restaurants prohibited
Phase Two will increase capacity while maintaining physical
distance (66% of occupation rate). Phase Three normal operations.
ARKANSAS LARGE INDOOR VENUES RE-OPENING (May 18th)
Governor Asa Hutchinson has announced that large indoor
venues in Arkansas, such as auditoriums, lecture halls, movie theaters,
museums, arenas, sports venues, funeral homes, and bowling alleys, will re-open
on May 18th with the following restrictions:
·
12-foot distance between performers and audience
·
50 or fewer performers/players/contestants
·
Audience of 50 or fewer people
·
6-foot distancing in seating, except for family
groups
·
Lines marked/monitored for distancing
·
Every other row should be unoccupied
·
Face coverings required for anyone over 10 years
old
·
If 12-foot distancing maintained from all
others, no face covering required for performer/player/contestant
·
Signs should advise no entry if any symptoms or
contact with positive patient
·
Hand sanitizer stations at all entrances/exits
·
Refreshments allowed, but no self service
·
Facility including seating cleaned before/after
each use
READY FOR BUSINESS GRANT PROGRAM
Governor Asa Hutchinson and Secretary of Commerce Mike Preston have established a $15 million grant program to assist businesses affected by the COVID19 outbreak. The program will provide direct grants to companies for expenses associated with ensuring the health and safety of employees and patrons. Applications will be accepted beginning 5:00PM CST April 29, 2020 at www.arkansasedc.com. Maximum grant is $100,000. For every full-time equivalent (W-2) employee as of March 1, a business is eligible for $1,000 in assistance. The Arkansas Ready for Business Grant Program is a discretionary incentive program offered by AEDC. Not all who apply for a grant will be approved. The information provided in this document is only a general summary of the program features and does not create any obligation by AEDC to provide a grant. AEDC reserves the right to adjust the terms of the grant based on the applicant's individual circumstances. For more information go to www.arkansasaedc.com.
Governor Asa Hutchinson and Secretary of Commerce Mike Preston have established a $15 million grant program to assist businesses affected by the COVID19 outbreak. The program will provide direct grants to companies for expenses associated with ensuring the health and safety of employees and patrons. Applications will be accepted beginning 5:00PM CST April 29, 2020 at www.arkansasedc.com. Maximum grant is $100,000. For every full-time equivalent (W-2) employee as of March 1, a business is eligible for $1,000 in assistance. The Arkansas Ready for Business Grant Program is a discretionary incentive program offered by AEDC. Not all who apply for a grant will be approved. The information provided in this document is only a general summary of the program features and does not create any obligation by AEDC to provide a grant. AEDC reserves the right to adjust the terms of the grant based on the applicant's individual circumstances. For more information go to www.arkansasaedc.com.
·
All privately owned businesses and industry
sectors are eligible.
·
If you have received AEDC or SBA assistance, you
are NOT prohibited from applying.
·
Applicant's business must have a physical
location where customers visit, or do business in a customer's physical
location.
·
Applications will be reviewed in the order
received. Items required with application include Driver's License of
business representative, Signed W9, voided check, and a certificate of Good
Standing (Sole proprietors can show business license or sales tax permit).
CARDS OF KINDNESS
Arkansas Hospice, the state’s
largest provider of hospice services, has launched “Cards of Kindness,” a
program that invites members of the community to send messages of kindness and
companionship to isolated nursing home patients through cards, poems, paintings,
drawings and art. The program has been developed in response to the restricted
visitation policies enacted by most area nursing homes, rehabilitation centers
and assisted living facilities due to the COVID-19 Coronavirus. The program is
a matter of “Arkansans helping Arkansans.”
A “thinking of you” style card, letters, drawings, poems, finger
paintings, anything with a positive message of greeting, hope and care can be
used. Cards of Kindness can be dropped off in a special collection bin during
normal business hours outside the front door of the Arkansas Hospice River
Valley Home, located at 220 John Babish Lane in Russellville. As a precaution,
the cards and greetings will be held for 48 hours to make sure they are
virus-free. The hospice’s provider relations team will then distribute the
cards to our partner nursing homes and facilities throughout the area.
Additional details can be found by visiting www.arkansashospice.org/cardsofkindness.
To build an added sense of community, participants can email pictures of their
cards or art to arhospicefoundation@gmail.com. A special carousel has been set up to display
the pictures on the website. Cards
can also be mailed to:
Cards
of Kindness
C/O
Arkansas Hospice
14
Parkstone Circle
North
Little Rock, AR 72216
SSI ECONOMIC IMPACT STIMULUS PAYMENTS
The Social Security Administration announced that
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients will receive automatic Economic
Impact Payments directly from the Treasury Department. The Treasury anticipates
these automatic payments to be sent out no later than early May. SSI recipients
with no qualifying children do not need to take any action in order to receive
their $1,200 economic impact payment. The payments will be automatic. SSI
recipients who have qualifying children under age 17, however, should not wait
for their automatic $1,200 individual payment. They should go directly to the
Social Security website at www.ssa.gov/coronavirus. By taking proactive steps to enter
information online about you and your qualifying children, you will also
receive the $500 per dependent child payment in addition to the $1,200
individual/personal payment.
PAYCHECK PROTECTION PROGRAM
Arkansas business owners can now apply for the Paycheck Protection Program loan, designated for any small business with fewer than 500 employees, including sole proprietorships, independent contractors, and self-employed persons.
Arkansas business owners can now apply for the Paycheck Protection Program loan, designated for any small business with fewer than 500 employees, including sole proprietorships, independent contractors, and self-employed persons.
Businesses can use Paycheck Protection Program funds for
payroll, employee benefits, rent, mortgage interest, and utilities.
Q: Do I have to pay the money back?
A: The purpose of the Paycheck Protection Program is to help you retain your employees. All or part of the loan may be forgiven, if employees are kept on the payroll and the money is used for payroll and operating expenses. Due to likely high participation, at least 75% of the forgiven amount must go toward payroll.
A: The purpose of the Paycheck Protection Program is to help you retain your employees. All or part of the loan may be forgiven, if employees are kept on the payroll and the money is used for payroll and operating expenses. Due to likely high participation, at least 75% of the forgiven amount must go toward payroll.
Q: How do I apply?
A: You can apply through any existing SBA 7(a) lender, federally insured depository institution, federally insured credit union, or Farm Credit System institution that is participating. Download or print your application here: https://www.sba.gov/sites/default/files/2020-04/PPP%20Borrower%20Application%20Form.pdf?fbclid=IwAR1mupkMjnJwEI4orCHFeG9hOMsrqRbqUtYOWGvkkHEkIwkoFf5zLE0xx54
A: You can apply through any existing SBA 7(a) lender, federally insured depository institution, federally insured credit union, or Farm Credit System institution that is participating. Download or print your application here: https://www.sba.gov/sites/default/files/2020-04/PPP%20Borrower%20Application%20Form.pdf?fbclid=IwAR1mupkMjnJwEI4orCHFeG9hOMsrqRbqUtYOWGvkkHEkIwkoFf5zLE0xx54
#LEANLOCALRUSSELLVILLE
The Russellville Area Chamber of Commerce has launched www.LeanLocalRussellville.com in an effort to support all of the local businesses and non-profits in the Russellville area impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The goal of the website is for it to serve as a platform that consumers can access to stay updated on the temporary practices of local businesses and so that the businesses and non-profits have a place to share their modified hours, menus, and policies. Local businesses and non-profits are invited to submit their information by filling out a form at LeanLocalRussellville.com. To update information after submission, or if there are any questions about the form, please email tduvall@russellvillechamber.com.
The Russellville Area Chamber of Commerce has launched www.LeanLocalRussellville.com in an effort to support all of the local businesses and non-profits in the Russellville area impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The goal of the website is for it to serve as a platform that consumers can access to stay updated on the temporary practices of local businesses and so that the businesses and non-profits have a place to share their modified hours, menus, and policies. Local businesses and non-profits are invited to submit their information by filling out a form at LeanLocalRussellville.com. To update information after submission, or if there are any questions about the form, please email tduvall@russellvillechamber.com.
#WOMANOWNED
The Women’s Foundation of Arkansas have announced #WomenOwned,
an assistance fund for women owned small businesses experiencing economic
hardship due to COVID-19. $5,000 grants are available for 100% women owned
businesses who employ 50 individuals or less. 75% of funding will be granted to
businesses owned at least 51% by a woman of color. Pool 1 recipients will be
announced by Friday, April 17th and a pool for additional applicants
will be announced at a later date. To learn how you can apply for a grant or
contribute to the fund, please visit https://bit.ly/2XrMoTo.
CARES ACT BUSINESS GUIDE & CHECKLIST
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES)
Act allocated $350 billion to help small businesses keep workers employed amid
the pandemic and economic downturn. Known as the Paycheck Protection Program,
the initiative provides 100% federally guaranteed loans to small businesses.
Importantly, these loans may be forgiven if borrowers maintain their payrolls
during the crisis or restore their payrolls afterward. The administration soon
will release more details including the list of lenders offering loans under
the program. In the meantime, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce has issued this
guide to help small businesses and self-employed individuals prepare to file
for a loan: https://www.uschamber.com/sites/default/files/023595_comm_corona_virus_smallbiz_loan_final.pdf.
PBA COVID-19 RELIEF FUND
The Professional Beauty Association (PBA) have created a new
fund to help the beauty industry during the coronavirus crisis. The PBA
COVID-19 Relief Fund will provide $500 to licensed beauty professional who are
unable to work at this time. Learn more and apply at this link: https://pbacharities.wufoo.com/forms/z16sfdhi0st99bn/
STUDENT LOAN RELIEF
The Department of Education have enacted relief efforts to assist student loan borrowers during the coronavirus crisis. Effective March 13, 2020, the interest rate on all federally held student loans serviced by FedLoan Servicing will temporarily be reduced to 0% for at least 60 days. This 0% interest rate will remain in effect until the Department of Education issues an end date and will be applied to all federal loans in any status (in school, in grace, in repayment, in deferment/forbearance, etc.). FedLoan Servicing is aggressively working to enact the following changes within their systems. It may take some time for these benefits to be reflected within your account. Know that these benefits will be applied retroactively, so you won’t be disadvantaged by this delay. Learn more at https://myfedloan.org/borrowers/covid/.
The Department of Education have enacted relief efforts to assist student loan borrowers during the coronavirus crisis. Effective March 13, 2020, the interest rate on all federally held student loans serviced by FedLoan Servicing will temporarily be reduced to 0% for at least 60 days. This 0% interest rate will remain in effect until the Department of Education issues an end date and will be applied to all federal loans in any status (in school, in grace, in repayment, in deferment/forbearance, etc.). FedLoan Servicing is aggressively working to enact the following changes within their systems. It may take some time for these benefits to be reflected within your account. Know that these benefits will be applied retroactively, so you won’t be disadvantaged by this delay. Learn more at https://myfedloan.org/borrowers/covid/.
ARKANSAS QUICK ACTION LOAN GUARANTY PROGRAM
The Arkansas Department of Commerce have announced they will
begin receiving applications for the Quick Action Loan Guaranty Program to
address the immediate needs of businesses affected by the COVID-19
outbreak. AEDC’s Quick Action Loan Guaranty is capped at $250,000 and will
guaranty up to 80% of the principal balance of a loan issued by a participating
lender of the program. Funds may be used for working capital, inventory,
payroll and other uses that facilitate the continuation of business operations.
So far, banks approved for lending include Arvest, Bank OZK, Centennial, Farm
Credit, and Simmons. Arkansas lenders interested in participating should
contact AEDC. Those participating will be listed on the AEDC COVID-19 website
www.arkansasedc.com/covid19. Lenders will assess the needs of borrowers to
determine suitability for the program. Interested borrowers are advised to
contact local lenders initially. For information on the program call
1-800-ARKANSAS or email COVID19.businessinfo@arkansasedc.com.
Learn more at https://www.arkansasedc.com/covid19.
NATIONAL CORONAVIRUS STIMULUS BILL
Under the plan, U.S. taxpayers making up to $75,000 a year are expected to receive direct payments for $1,200. Couples making up to $150,000 would receive $2,400, with an additional $500 per child. The new agreement removed the provision excluding lower-income Americans from receiving the full stimulus benefit. The bill is also expected to include roughly $100 billion in assistance for hospitals; $350 billion for small businesses; $500 billion for corporations; and about $150 billion for state and local stimulus funds. Unemployment insurance would also be significantly reinforced for four months by increasing payments and extending benefits to those who typically do not qualify, such as gig economy workers, furloughed employees and freelancers. The coronavirus stimulus package would increase the maximum unemployment benefit that a state gives to a person by $600 per week. The agreement also would prohibit businesses controlled by Trump, Vice President Mike Pence, members of Congress and heads of executive departments from receiving loans or investments from Treasury programs. Link for questions & answers: https://nyti.ms/3bvZa7w
Under the plan, U.S. taxpayers making up to $75,000 a year are expected to receive direct payments for $1,200. Couples making up to $150,000 would receive $2,400, with an additional $500 per child. The new agreement removed the provision excluding lower-income Americans from receiving the full stimulus benefit. The bill is also expected to include roughly $100 billion in assistance for hospitals; $350 billion for small businesses; $500 billion for corporations; and about $150 billion for state and local stimulus funds. Unemployment insurance would also be significantly reinforced for four months by increasing payments and extending benefits to those who typically do not qualify, such as gig economy workers, furloughed employees and freelancers. The coronavirus stimulus package would increase the maximum unemployment benefit that a state gives to a person by $600 per week. The agreement also would prohibit businesses controlled by Trump, Vice President Mike Pence, members of Congress and heads of executive departments from receiving loans or investments from Treasury programs. Link for questions & answers: https://nyti.ms/3bvZa7w
ONGOING & RECURRING
(ALL ON HOLD DURING COVID-19)
WHAT: Domestic
Violence Survivor Support Group
WHEN: Every Thursday! | Women: 10 AM | Men: 12 PM | LGBTQ+: 1 PM
WHEN: Every Thursday! | Women: 10 AM | Men: 12 PM | LGBTQ+: 1 PM
WHERE: McElroy
House | 420 S. 2nd St. | Dardanelle
PRICE: Free!
The River Valley Shelter for Battered Women and Children have partnered with the McElroy House of Dardanelle to provide a weekly support group for domestic violence survivors. The support group meets every Thursday at 10 AM for women, 12 PM for men, and 1 PM for LGBTQ+. The purpose of the group is to provide emotional, psychological, educational, and practical support to individuals who share a problem or similar situation. Sharing your story and experiences can aid in helping yourself and others heal by having a sense of support, increasing overall well-being, and reducing stress. The outcome of participating in the weekly Domestic Violence Survivor Support Group can include positive changes in self-esteem, depression, self-efficacy, and ego strength. For more information, please call 479-219-5148.
PRICE: Free!
The River Valley Shelter for Battered Women and Children have partnered with the McElroy House of Dardanelle to provide a weekly support group for domestic violence survivors. The support group meets every Thursday at 10 AM for women, 12 PM for men, and 1 PM for LGBTQ+. The purpose of the group is to provide emotional, psychological, educational, and practical support to individuals who share a problem or similar situation. Sharing your story and experiences can aid in helping yourself and others heal by having a sense of support, increasing overall well-being, and reducing stress. The outcome of participating in the weekly Domestic Violence Survivor Support Group can include positive changes in self-esteem, depression, self-efficacy, and ego strength. For more information, please call 479-219-5148.
WHAT: Forget Me
Nots
WHEN: 4th Tuesday Monthly | 2 PM
WHERE: Brookdale Senior Living | 240 S. Inglewood | Russellville
PRICE: Free!
Forget Me Nots is a monthly support group for caregivers of those with dementia. Forget Me Nots meets on the 4th Tuesday every month at 2 PM at Russellville’s Brookdale Senior Living Center. Participants share experiences, hear from those who work in the dementia-related field, learn coping strategies and support one another. For more information, please email Rhonda Horton at rhorton@arkansashospice.org.
WHEN: 4th Tuesday Monthly | 2 PM
WHERE: Brookdale Senior Living | 240 S. Inglewood | Russellville
PRICE: Free!
Forget Me Nots is a monthly support group for caregivers of those with dementia. Forget Me Nots meets on the 4th Tuesday every month at 2 PM at Russellville’s Brookdale Senior Living Center. Participants share experiences, hear from those who work in the dementia-related field, learn coping strategies and support one another. For more information, please email Rhonda Horton at rhorton@arkansashospice.org.
WHAT: Russellville Community Market (RCM)
WHEN: Online, year-round
WHERE: www.russellville.locallygrown.net
WHEN: Online, year-round
WHERE: www.russellville.locallygrown.net
The Russellville Community Market
(RCM) is an online farmer’s market operating year-round at www.russellville.locallygrown.net.
You simply login to that website, become a free member, and start order
farm-fresh food for your family year-round from the convenience of your phone,
tablet, desktop, or laptop. The market opens for ordering Friday afternoons at
12 PM and you place orders through Sunday evenings at 10 PM. Then, you pickup
and pay for your order on Tuesday evenings from 4-6:30 PM at the Train Depot of
Downtown Russellville. You do not submit payment information online because you
pay when you pick up and the Russellville Community Market accepts cash, check,
credit, debit, EBT, and SNAP. At their website, you can place orders, find and
submit recipes, get to know the vendors, and more. Market items include fresh
meats, vegetables, herbs, pet supplies, live plants, baked goods, nuts, bath
and beauty products and more. For more information, visit the Russellville
Community Market online, on Facebook, or on Instagram!
WHAT:
Russellville Roller Girls Roller Derby
WHEN: Every Sunday & Tuesday | 4:30 PM
WHERE: Merritt Park | Dardanelle
PRICE: Free!
Need something new and fun in your life? They skate every Sunday and Tuesday at 4:30 PM at Merritt Park in Dardanelle (Unless it’s raining or below 32°). All women (ages 18 to infinity) and girls (ages 9 to 17) of all skating levels are welcome. Jam and Doc will train you for whatever level you’d like to play, be it just to exercise, or to compete in roller derby mash-ups or games. They even have gear for adult women to borrow to get a feel for the roller derby action. Ask questions by messaging the Roller Girls on Facebook, or just come out and get your skate on!
WHEN: Every Sunday & Tuesday | 4:30 PM
WHERE: Merritt Park | Dardanelle
PRICE: Free!
Need something new and fun in your life? They skate every Sunday and Tuesday at 4:30 PM at Merritt Park in Dardanelle (Unless it’s raining or below 32°). All women (ages 18 to infinity) and girls (ages 9 to 17) of all skating levels are welcome. Jam and Doc will train you for whatever level you’d like to play, be it just to exercise, or to compete in roller derby mash-ups or games. They even have gear for adult women to borrow to get a feel for the roller derby action. Ask questions by messaging the Roller Girls on Facebook, or just come out and get your skate on!
WHAT:
Neighbor’s Table Meal
WHEN: Every Saturday | 11:30 AM – 1 PM
WHERE: All Saints’ Episcopal Church | 501 S. Phoenix Ave.
PRICE: Free!
Neighbor's Table is a free meal is provided from noon to 1 p.m. every Saturday at All Saints' Episcopal Church, 501 S Phoenix Ave in Russellville. Doors open at 11:30 am with free coffee. All are welcome to attend this no pressure, no questions asked for free lunch. Neighbor's Table is celebrating its 6th year of service. Neighbors Table will now send home sack lunches to guests who come for lunch. All Saints' also started a new "Loaves and Fishes" ministry, with Sunday morning offerings at our altar of necessities like cereal, peanut butter, shelf stable-milk, toilet paper, toiletries, hand soap, and detergent. Then these items will be distributed out to our guests on Saturday at Neighbors Table. For more information on our program or how you can help please call our office at 479-968-3622.
WHEN: Every Saturday | 11:30 AM – 1 PM
WHERE: All Saints’ Episcopal Church | 501 S. Phoenix Ave.
PRICE: Free!
Neighbor's Table is a free meal is provided from noon to 1 p.m. every Saturday at All Saints' Episcopal Church, 501 S Phoenix Ave in Russellville. Doors open at 11:30 am with free coffee. All are welcome to attend this no pressure, no questions asked for free lunch. Neighbor's Table is celebrating its 6th year of service. Neighbors Table will now send home sack lunches to guests who come for lunch. All Saints' also started a new "Loaves and Fishes" ministry, with Sunday morning offerings at our altar of necessities like cereal, peanut butter, shelf stable-milk, toilet paper, toiletries, hand soap, and detergent. Then these items will be distributed out to our guests on Saturday at Neighbors Table. For more information on our program or how you can help please call our office at 479-968-3622.
WHAT: All
Saints’ Yoga
WHEN: Every Tuesday! | 5:30-6:30 PM
WHERE: All Saints’ Episcopal Church | 501 S. Phoenix Ave. | Russellville
WHEN: Every Tuesday! | 5:30-6:30 PM
WHERE: All Saints’ Episcopal Church | 501 S. Phoenix Ave. | Russellville
PRICE: Free!
Since beginning in the fall of 2014, All Saints’ Yoga is a basic/beginning class, but modifications are taught for all levels. This free Tuesday evening practice is an extension from the class Deacon Kay Staggs taught for many years. In the winter, All Saints’ Yoga focuses on arm strengthening, and in the summer they choose a strong pose and work toward it. All Saints’ Yoga has a consistent warm-up and sun salutation and then sprinkle the rest of the practice with new or challenging poses or sequences. There is a mixture of sitting, kneeling, balancing and standing poses all with a variety of music for background. We stop and workshop certain areas/poses as needed and always have fun doing that. There is also dharma reading each week with meditation/breathing practices. All Saints’ Yoga is always open to new/beginning yogis. Bring a mat and a friend and come join! Shanti (Peace). For more information please contact Cindy by email at cindyeisemann@aol.com or by phone at 347-285-8249.
Since beginning in the fall of 2014, All Saints’ Yoga is a basic/beginning class, but modifications are taught for all levels. This free Tuesday evening practice is an extension from the class Deacon Kay Staggs taught for many years. In the winter, All Saints’ Yoga focuses on arm strengthening, and in the summer they choose a strong pose and work toward it. All Saints’ Yoga has a consistent warm-up and sun salutation and then sprinkle the rest of the practice with new or challenging poses or sequences. There is a mixture of sitting, kneeling, balancing and standing poses all with a variety of music for background. We stop and workshop certain areas/poses as needed and always have fun doing that. There is also dharma reading each week with meditation/breathing practices. All Saints’ Yoga is always open to new/beginning yogis. Bring a mat and a friend and come join! Shanti (Peace). For more information please contact Cindy by email at cindyeisemann@aol.com or by phone at 347-285-8249.
WHAT:
Dardanelle Area Chamber Member’s Luncheon
WHEN: Third Wednesday Monthly | 12 PM
WHERE: Tarasco’s Restaurant | Front Street | Downtown Dardanelle
The Dardanelle Area Chamber of Commerce hosts a monthly Member's Luncheon on the third Wednesday each month at 12 PM at Tarasco's Restaurant located on Front St in Dardanelle, AR. Lunch is a dutch treat in a casual setting. The Chamber acknowledges the Chamber Member of the Month and a guest speaker will inform you of relevant business topics, local government changes or a local benefit for our community. Monthly Chamber Member Luncheons are a great time to build relationships, swap ideas, get solutions or give advice. For more advice, please call the Dardanelle Chamber at 479-229-3328.
WHEN: Third Wednesday Monthly | 12 PM
WHERE: Tarasco’s Restaurant | Front Street | Downtown Dardanelle
The Dardanelle Area Chamber of Commerce hosts a monthly Member's Luncheon on the third Wednesday each month at 12 PM at Tarasco's Restaurant located on Front St in Dardanelle, AR. Lunch is a dutch treat in a casual setting. The Chamber acknowledges the Chamber Member of the Month and a guest speaker will inform you of relevant business topics, local government changes or a local benefit for our community. Monthly Chamber Member Luncheons are a great time to build relationships, swap ideas, get solutions or give advice. For more advice, please call the Dardanelle Chamber at 479-229-3328.
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