Pulaski County turns 200 years old

eight hours of sleep a night. Healing cannot take place if we consistently do not get enough sleep. If sleep is difficult during stressful times, stack the deck in your favor. Avoid caffeine and alcohol if you know it disturbs your sleep. Make your bedroom as tranquil as possible. Do not take your work into the bedroom. Stop doing things that are mentally demanding at least an hour before you go to bed. Take a warm, relaxing bath. Listen to music. Read an undemanding book for a few minutes to relax your body, tire your eyes, and help you forget about the things that happened during the day.

As stated before, there are many stress management techniques and strategies. There are numerous books and articles available with more information than you can imagine. If stress is a problem in your life, do not take it lightly. Do something about it.

If you do not think you are handling your stress well on your own. If you need someone to talk to for more information about handling stress. If you are a leader in your county and you see your employees may need some help dealing with stress, contact the Southwest Employee Assistance Program (EAP). They have individual counseling services as well as group training available. County government employees may use their services at a discounted rate. Contact Terri Murphree at terri@southwesteap.com or Becky Comet at bcomet@arcounties.org or (501) 372-7550, and I will put you in touch with Southwest EAP.

Pulaski County celebrates its 200th birthday

The cold weather did not affect the turnout for the Dec. 4, 2018, celebration of Pulaski County’s 200th birthday. City, county, and state officials and employees enjoyed a program of speakers that included Pulaski County Judge Barry Hyde, Little Rock Mayor Mark Stodola, Arkansas Department of Heritage Director Stacy Hurst, and Rachel Patton with the Pulaski County Historical Society. Each remarked on an aspect of Pulaski County history. The county was created from the former Missouri Territory in 1818 and was named for Polish Count Casimir Pulaski, who died in the Revolutionary War in 1779.

Little Rock Mayor-elect Frank Scott attended, as well.

Following the outdoor ceremony, attendees were invited into the courthouse rotunda for birthday cake and fellowship.

Above: Pulaski County Justice of the Peace Paul Elliott, Treasurer/ Collector Debra Buckner, and state Rep. Fred Love brave the cold to celebrate. Far left: Pulaski County Judge Barry Hyde addresses the attendees. Left: AAC Executive Director Chris Villines, Judge Barry Hyde and Little Rock Mayor Mark Stodola pose for a photo.