AAC
F a m i ly F r i e n d s
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John Robinson, warning coordinator meteorologist for the National Weather Service, explains the various factors that impact notification and warning of a weather event in the state of Arkansas. He described the time line of events concerning the Albert Pike flooding tragedy.
Above: Crittenden County Judge Melton Holt accepts a framed copy of the summer edition of County Lines magazine where his life and recovery after a tragic motorcycle accident was chronicled. Holt was the host judge for the County Judges Association of Arkansas meeting in West memphis in September. Wes Fowler (left), AAC government affairs director, Preston Scroggin, CJAA president, and Chris Villines, AAC executive director, all provided comments thanking Holt for his service. Right: Lindsey Williams, state fire marshal, explains Arkansas law concerning burn bans.
Wes Fowler (standing), AAC government relations director, addresses judges in an executive committee meeting while Mark Whitmore (from left), AAC chief legal counsel, Preston Scroggin, CJAA president, and Jeff Phillips, Jackson County Judge, look on. COUNTY LINES, FALL 2012
Arkansas Co. judges conduct business at annual fall meeting
The County Judges Association of Arkansas met for its annual fall meeting in West Memphis in late September and attendees were treated to an appearance from the host judge that a year ago seemed to be impossible. Crittenden County Judge Melton Holt, who suffered extensive critical injuries in a motorcycle accident in July 2011 attended Thursday’s meeting welcoming the judges to his county. He also received a token of appreciation for his service as he decided not to seek re-election. He was met with a standing ovation when he was introduced. “It is very nice to be here. There were times when I didn’t think I would be back,” Holt said. “The Lord is a beautiful thing and if it wasn’t for the Lord, I wouldn’t be here. My family stood by me and I was never alone. I appreciate all of you ... so keep on keeping on.” Lindsey Williams, state fire marshal, explained that the county judge is the only entity that can order a burn ban. Williams, who was a volunteer firefighter for 32 years in White County, said the fire code dictates that fireworks can only be sold and set off from June 20 July 10 and from Dec. 10 - Jan. 5. Joe Fox, state forester with the Arkansas Forestry Commission, told judges that prescribed burning is the single best tool against wildfires and forestry efforts saved about 18 million in property last year. David Maxwell, Arkansas Department of Emergency Management director, also spoke about emergency response and mutual aid agreements. 25
