Stories from Monday, February 22, 2010

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (AP) -- Rep. David Cook says he's running for the east Arkansas congressional seat being vacated by Democratic Congressman Marion Berry. Cook is a Democrat from Williford. He announced Wednesday that he's seeking the Democratic nomination for the 1st District seat. Berry announced last month he would not seek re-election at the end of his term this year...

Local bands are now being sought for "Support Live Music," an ongoing program presented as a fundraiser for The Arts Council of Mississippi County. "Support Live Music" provides an opportunity for local and area garage bands to perform on stage at the Ritz Civic Center with professional lighting and sound systems to enhance their performance. ...

Third 'state of the schools' address given at Ritz

MANILA -- In its regular meeting Thursday night, the Manila School Board voted to accept the resignation of two principals, who are retiring at the end of the year. After coming out of executive session to discuss personnel matters, Manila School Board president Tony Crowell read the resignation letters of Manila Middle School Principal Diane Wagner, who has been with the Manila School District for 35 years, and Manila High School Principal Pam Chipman, who has been with the District 31 years. ...

In recognition of Black History Month, the Courier News is shining the spotlight on some of the many African-Americans who have played a leading role in our community. A different individual will be featured in each edition of the newspaper during the month of February...

Mississippi County will see many savings from the operations of the two county hospitals, thanks to a change in the county's contract with the management company and streamlining of expenses by the managers. Quorum Health Resources (QHR) was contracted by the county last year to operate both county hospitals after the former management company, Ameris, withdrew its contract...

The Greater Blytheville Foundation, just established in late 2009, is already on its way to becoming an important resource for the Blytheville area. "Our focus is fund development," says the foundation's board chair, Steve Southard. "We want to provide funding for the public service programs that the Chamber of Commerce puts in place. That may be through fundraisers or applying for grants, or it can be through accepting personal donations."...

For several years now the Manila School District administration has been made up of all women: Pam Castor, superintendent; Pam Chipman, high school principal; Diane Wagner, middle school principal; Diane Baugher, elementary principal; and Robin Baugher, assistant elementary principal...

In recognition of Black History Month, the Courier News is shining the spotlight on some of the many African-Americans who have played a leading role in our community. A different individual will be featured in each edition of the newspaper during the month of February...