Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson spent most of Tuesday in Mountain Home discussing COVID-19 in Baxter County and its impact on local healthcare and the economy, as well as providing his daily press conference on the campus of Arkansas State University-Mountain Home.Hutchinson addressed the topic of why visit Mountain Home, right off the bat.
Listen:
He also expressed words of caution for Twin Lakes Area residents.
Listen:
Mountain Home Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Jake Long serves on the governor’s advisory committee for reopening schools this fall. When asked about the developing plans for reopening, Hutchinson says the Arkansas Department of Education (ADE) will continue its path toward a “blended learning environment” involving in-class and online instruction, but also complete online instruction for children who are more vulnerable, or have more vulnerable family members.
The ADE and the governor have instructed each school district to form a local advisory group to tailor the reopening plan for each district. Mountain Home’s group will have its first meeting this week. Hutchinson says these local groups will have plenty of options on how the school district operates.
Listen:
Ron Peterson, president and CEO of Baxter Regional Medical Center (BRMC), says it was great to get a chance to discuss the facility’s concerns with the governor and describes the information he shared.
Listen:
Peterson also addressed the topic of discussion throughout the state, the availability of hospital beds for treating COVID-19 patients. He says BRMC is in good shape and prepared for any increase in local cases.
Listen:
Arkansas’ recent spike in COVID-19 positive tests has coincided with the state’s reopening and the Memorial Day holiday. With the Fourth of July fast approaching, Hutchinson says Arkansans must continue to safely practice the ADH’s recommended guidelines.
Listen:
Hutchinson concluded his visit by attending a meeting of the North Arkansas East/West Corridor Association, a non-profit group working to improve travel along U.S. Highway 62/412 to boost the region’s economy.
WebReadyTM Powered by WireReady® NSI