Steve Womack RSS Articles

Arkansas Delegation Announces Over $6 Million for Seventeen Arkansas Colleges, Universities

Wed, 09 May 2012 04:00:00 GMT

U.S. Senators Mark Pryor and John Boozman, along with Congressmen Rick Crawford (AR-1), Tim Griffin (AR-2), Steve Womack (AR-3) and Mike Ross (AR-4) today announced that seventeen Arkansas colleges and universities will received a combined $6,459,878 in Upward Bound Program Grants to help Arkansas students develop the skills and motivation necessary to succeed in postsecondary education.

The Upward Bound Program provides services such as academic tutoring, preparation courses for college entrance exams and applications, and alternative education programs to help students reach success in high school and in higher education pursuits. The program targets high school first-generation college students and low-income individuals.

“These funds will expand educational and professional opportunities for Arkansas students, allowing them to reach their full academic potential,” Pryor said. “Upward Bound’s innovative curriculum is a win-win for students and Arkansas’s workforce.”

“Upward Bound has had a positive impact for countless students seeking to expand their educational capabilities,” Boozman said. “This is a great opportunity to continue the progress and help Arkansans attain the quality education they need for the careers of tomorrow.”

“Upward Bound offers students in Arkansas the chance to receive an education and ultimately become contributors to society. These funds will improve students’ lives and will help create a more dynamic workforce for Arkansas,” said Crawford.

“As a member of the Congressional TRIO Caucus, I support the Upward Bound program because I firmly believe a key part of strengthening our economy and creating jobs here in Arkansas is to make college more attainable. Helping students attain their educational potential is good for all of us,” said Griffin.

“Educating our next generation is of the utmost importance,” said Womack. “The services provided by these grants will give our students the opportunity to succeed at the academic and professional levels.”

“As the son of two retired public school educators, I am a firm believer that education is critical to our nation’s future and long-term economic prosperity,” said Ross. “In order to prepare our young people to compete in this new global economy, we must ensure they have access to a world class education, and the Upward Bound Program helps prepare students for our 21st century global economy by providing them with the resources they need to succeed.”

The following schools have been selected to receive Upward Bound Program Grants:

Arkansas Baptist College: $250,000

Arkansas State University, Beebe: $587,500

Arkansas State University, Jonesboro: $377,843

Arkansas Tech University: $250,000

Harding University: $287,881

Lyon College: $390,480

Northwest Arkansas Community College: $250,000

Ouachita Baptist University: $395,199

Philander Smith College: $480,150

Rich Mountain Community College: $339,381.00

South Arkansas Community College, El Dorado: $262,500

South Arkansas University, Magnolia: $787,492

University of Arkansas, Fayetteville: $615,671

University of Arkansas, Fort Smith: $260,400

University of Arkansas, Monticello: $336,000

University of Arkansas, Pine Bluff: $339,381

University of Central Arkansas: $250,000

Contact:
Michael Teague, Pryor, 501-324-6336
Sara Lasure, Boozman, 202-224-4843
Justin Gibbs, Crawford, 202-225-4076
Jonathan Samford, Griffin, 202-225-2506
J.R. Davis, Womack, 202-225-4301
Dustin Smith, Ross, 870-536-3376

Womack Remembers Lowell Police Chief Joe Landers

Fri, 04 May 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Congressman Steve Womack released the below statement on the sudden passing of Lowell Chief of Police, Joe Landers. Landers died this morning after suffering injuries from a motorcycle accident last week in Panama City, Florida.

“I’m saddened to learn of Chief Landers’ passing. He was an example of the quality and dedication of those committed to public service. His impact on law enforcement and his community was felt throughout the region, and he was one of those people who made Northwest Arkansas such a special place.

“Today, I join the people of Northwest Arkansas as we say goodbye to both a friend and a leader. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Landers family at this time. Joe will be sorely missed.”

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Womack on the Passing of Councilman Larry Daniel

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Congressman Steve Womack released the below statement on the passing of Rogers City Councilman and Finance Committee chairman, Larry Daniel.

Daniel was appointed to the city council on August 14, 2001 and attended his final council meeting on April 24, 2012. He was a retired banker who worked for Bank of Arkansas and Arvest Bank.

After months of battling cancer, Daniel passed away early this morning.

Congressman Womack:

“My heart is broken for Larry’s family and the city he loved so much. He was committed to serving his community and is among those responsible for the tremendous improvements—economic, recreational, and governmental—in the last several years. His experience in the financial sector proved invaluable to the City of Rogers and his presence on the Council will be sorely missed.”

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Womack Votes To Keep Student Loan Rates Low

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON - Congressman Steve Womack released the following statement after the House approved the Interest Rate Reduction Act (H.R. 4628), that would extend current student loan interest rates by cutting spending from an ObamaCare slush fund:

"Earlier today, the House voted to prevent the rate increase on Stafford Loans to undergraduate students by passing H.R. 4628, the Interest Rate Reduction Act. This action was, in effect, killing two birds with one stone, as it will pay for this loan cost-saving measure by repealing the Prevention and Public Health Fund – a MANDATORY funding stream to the tune of $12 billion that allows the Secretary of Health and Human Services (currently Kathleen Sebelius) to spend money for things like jungle gyms and bike paths.

"But most importantly, H.R. 4628 would keep the interest rates on federally subsidized student loans at 3.4 percent for another year. Without this legislation, interest rates would double starting July 1, going from 3.4 percent to 6.8 percent adding nearly $1,000 to the average student’s loan.

"This is good for our students; this is good for our economy, and anything less would be unacceptable. I am proud to have voted for the Interest Rate Reduction Act and kept student loans affordable for another year for those who need it the most."

2012 Congressional Art Competition Entries Due Today, Tomorrow!

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Submissions for the 2012 Congressional Art Competition are currently underway. If you are submitting your artwork to the Fort Smith and Harrison offices, you have until 5 p.m., Thursday, April 26. Art is due in the Rogers office by 5 p.m., Friday, April 27.

Judging to determine the district finalist will take place Monday, April 30.

For more information, please see the attached document. You can also click HERE.

No, the Medicare Trustee's Report on Obamacare's Deficit Expansion Isn't 'Bogus'

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 15:13:00 GMT

No, the Medicare Trustee's Report on Obamacare's Deficit Expansion Isn't 'Bogus'

Great read from Forbes HERE (title of article above), and check out the video below, "Health Care Bill: Double Counting Doubles the Crisis".

Rogers, AR: Top 10 Cities for Affordable Vacations

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Top 10 Cities for Affordable Vacations

10. Rogers, AR

Photo: Dero Sanford

Beaver Lake in Rogers, AR

Nestled in the heart of scenic Northwest Arkansas, Rogers is a wallet-friendly getaway in the Ozarks. Recently voted one of the Best Places to Live by Money magazine, this city boasts a long list of entertainment options. Its walkable historic square has an eclectic blend of affordable shopping, art, theater, restaurants and museums. Many restaurants in Rogers offer fresh-from-the-farm foods and the live music and museums in Rogers are highly celebrated.

offer fresh-from-the-farm foods and the are highly celebrated.Nestled in the heart of scenic Northwest Arkansas, Rogers is a wallet-friendly getaway in the Ozarks. Recently voted one of the Best Places to Live by magazine, this city boasts a long list of entertainment options. Its walkable historic square has an eclectic blend of affordable shopping, art, theater, restaurants and museums. Many offer fresh-from-the-farm foods and the are highly celebrated.

Outdoors, cool off or pitch a tent at scenic Beaver Lake and Hobbs State Park, the largest state park in Arkansas and a popular summer destination that also offers affordable water recreation rentals. Another great getaway is Lake Atalanta, a 35-acre lake and park site that features a swimming pool, fishing hole, walking trail and picnic tables.

Rogers is just minutes from the region’s major attractions including The University of Arkansas and The Northwest Arkansas Naturals, a Double-A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals. Kids eat free during Family Sundays at the Springdale, Ark. ballpark, while dollar hot dogs are served up on Mondays.

One of the most popular regional attractions is the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, which became a world-class destination after opening its doors in 2011. General admission is free, thanks to a generous sponsorship by Bentonville-based Wal-Mart. Their 120-acre grounds include galleries, a museum complex with hands-on art and drop-in studios, a restaurant, and areas for outdoor concerts and public events. Designed against a spectacular mountain view, Crystal Bridges includes more than three miles of walking and biking trails, outdoor sculptures, gardens and interactive education areas.

Hotels: 22

Restaurants: 112

More Places to Visit: War Eagle Caverns, Arkansas Air Museum, Arts Center of the Ozarks, Cherokee Casino, Dragon's Lair, Peel Mansion

Womack Sits Down with "The City Wire"

Mon, 16 Apr 2012 16:00:00 GMT

Congressman Steve Womack sat down with KFSM's Daren Bobb and The City Wire's Michael Tilley over the weekend to talk local issues and the Federal Budget on the new "The City Wire" show on 5NEWS. Both videos are below.

188th Changes Its Leadership

Sun, 15 Apr 2012 08:05:00 GMT

Online Story HERE

By Hicham Raache - Times Record

Col. Mark W. Anderson took the reigns of the 188th Fighter Wing during a change-of-command ceremony Saturday, attended by military personnel and political leaders.

“You are blessed,” Anderson said to scores of members of the Arkansas Air National Guard’s 188th Fighter Wing in attendance in uniform at the hangar of the Ebbing Air National Guard Base. “The 188th is an amazing unit. It’s your spirit, courage and enthusiasm that carries through to future (members of the 188th).”

Anderson’s address to Guard members past and present, political leaders and community members was delivered after Col. Thomas I. Anderson, who had served as commander of the Fighter Wing since May 7, 2006, officially passed command duties to him during the ceremony.

“Thank you for your tireless services to the 188th and for your great service to the state of Arkansas,” Mark Anderson said to his predecessor during the address.

Mark Anderson had served as the vice commander of the Fighter Wing. As vice commander, Anderson formulated, planned and provided staff input for operations, deployment, maintenance and support policies, and provided leadership on flying safety for the A-10C Thunderbolt II flying program.

Brig. Gen. Travis D. Balch, commander of the Arkansas Air National Guard, said Mark Anderson will flourish as the 188th’s new leader.

“His work has demonstrated he is very good at what he does,” Balch said. “His performance has been outstanding.”

Balch, a Fort Smith native who once served as the 189th Airlift wing commander, spoke of the significance of the wing commander role.

“Being a wing commander is a privilege and honor; the mission of the wing commander is sacred,” he said. “It is imperative he lead with integrity — he is the face of the organization.”

Balch also lauded Thomas Anderson’s steadfast command of the 188th.

“Under Tom’s command, the Wing has maintained its strength at or above 100 percent,” Balch said.

The outgoing commander thanked the men and women he has led for the past six years.

“It has been a distinct privilege and honor to serve the men and women of the 188th Fighter Wing,” Thomas Anderson said. “It is (your) dedication, service before self and excellence that has allowed you to succeed.”

Lt. Col. Tim Eddins, operations group commander for the 188th, said he has known Thomas Anderson for 20 years.

“He’s a good commander and a good friend, and I have a lot of respect for him,” he said.

Eddins said Thomas Anderson was instrumental in the process of converting from F-16s to A-10 “Warthogs” in 2005, thus keeping the 188th functional.

“He came up with a plan,” Eddins said. “He’s a big reason we have these airplanes.”

Eddins also said he has long known the new commander, Mark Anderson. Anderson’s vision and strong organizational ability will make him a good wing commander, Eddins said.

U.S. Rep. Steve Womack, R-Rogers, attended the ceremony.

“I know Mark and Tom both,” Womack said. “They are typical commanders: Professional, competent, gifted, passionate and solid in every way. They lead by example.”

The 188th Fighter Wing, Womack said, is exemplary.

“It’s arguably one of the most accomplished and successful fighter wings in all of the Air Force,” Womack said.

Approximately 75 members of the 188th Fighter Wing are currently deployed in Afghanistan. Hundreds more are set to be deployed through the summer, with a total deployment of approximately 400 wing members, Mark Anderson said.

A concern that Mark Anderson said he will work to address is the possibility that the mission and aircraft of the 188th will change from the A-10s flown by 188th pilots to unmanned, remote piloted aircraft. The conversion, Anderson said, is a part of President Barack Obama’s Fiscal Year 2013 budget.

“The bad thing about that is it’s a reduction in man power,” Anderson said.

Anderson said he encourages Arkansas political leaders to prevent the conversion to remote piloted aircraft.

“Our Congressional delegation is very engaged,” he said. “We have all the support of the entire Arkansas Congressional Delegation.”

Also on Anderson’s agenda: Promoting the 188th.

“We’ve been the best kept secret in the Air National Guard for a long time,” he said. “(My goal) is to get the message out so people know about us a bit more and about our capabilities in Fort Smith, Ark.”

Fort Smith May Host a Congressional Field Hearing

Sun, 15 Apr 2012 02:32:00 GMT

Online Story HERE

Michael Tilley - The City Wire

A request has been made to conduct a Congressional field hearing in Fort Smith related to U.S. defense budget cuts that would change the mission of the 188th Fighter Wing, according to U.S. Rep. Steve Womack, R-Rogers.

Womack teased Saturday night (April 14) during his comments at the Sebastian County Lincoln Day Dinner that the field hearing could land in Fort Smith in the near future.

“We have a big fight on our hands (to save the 188th) ... And that fight is far from over,” Womack told the about 300 in the crowd.

Broad cuts in U.S. defense spending include the removal of the 20 A-10 Thunderbolt fighter planes from the 188th Fighter Wing in Fort Smith. The loss of the fighter mission is scheduled to be replaced with the unmanned Predator drone. The drones and intelligence specialists needed to analyze drone-driven data would not be based in Fort Smith.

Community officials and former 188th officials were concerned the lack of planes would result in deep job losses. The 188th now has about 1,000 personnel attached to the unit, with a little more than 300 in a full-time status. Initial estimates were that the full-time numbers could fall to around 55 with the new mission.

However, the Air Force changes 188th authorized personnel from 972 in fiscal year 2011 to 802 in fiscal year 2013 — far fewer job cuts than previously estimated by local officials.

Overall, the Air Force proposed reductions of 3,900 active-duty, 5,100 Air National Guard and 900 Air Force Reserve positions.

On Mar. 8 it was learned that the National Governors Association would present a counter plan to Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta. The new plan would seek cuts that are more proportional between the Active duty and Air Guard and creates greater savings than the Air Force plan. According to Matt DeCample, a spokesman for Arkansas Gov. Mike Beebe, the NGA plan would remove the A-10 mission from the 188th and return the F-16.

In a brief phone interview after the Saturday night Lincoln Day Dinner, Womack said U.S. Sen. John Boozman, R-Ark., initially lobbied for U.S. Rep. Randy Forbes, R-Va., to include Fort Smith on a planned series of Congressional field hearings related to security issues resulting from changes in the proposed defense budget cuts.

Forbes, whose district includes significant military installations on the East Coast, is the chairman of the House Armed Services subcommittee on Readiness.

Womack said Forbes has tentatively scheduled a series of about 10 field hearings on how the defense budget changes will impact national security. Womack said he has talked to Forbes about the 188th situation, and has filed a formal request for one of the hearings to be in Fort Smith.

“It’s not a done deal,” Womack said of the request. “But if they hold the field hearings, I’m confident we’re going to have one of the stops.”

Congress returns from the Easter recess on Monday (April 16), and Womack said he plans to check with Forbes’ office immediately on the status of the field hearings.