Overview

Since the capture of two Israeli soldiers on July 12, 2006, Israel has mounted an increasingly forceful aerial bombardment of targets in Lebanon, including roads, bridges, airports, ports, fuel and gas storage tanks, as well as Hezbollah strongholds in various parts of the country including Beirut. At the same time, Hezbollah has fired numerous rockets into Israel , some targeting Haifa , Israel 's third largest city.

Recent days have brought the worst escalation of armed conflict between Israel and Lebanon in many years, causing numerous casualties on both sides, widespread destruction of Lebanon 's infrastructure, the displacement of increasing number of civilians and general uncertainty as to when the violence will end.

To date, most casualties on both sides of the border have been civilians.

Many Israelis and Lebanese have left their homes close to the Israeli-Lebanese border to seek refuge from the fighting further inland. The violence also has prompted large numbers of foreigners to leave Lebanon , many of whom have still not managed to get out.

With the runways of Beirut international airport damaged by Israeli air strikes, the Israeli navy blockading its ports and the main Beirut-Damascus road cratered by bombs, Lebanon's remaining international transport links are severely limited. Several countries are planning to deploy naval ships off Lebanon 's coast to evacuate their nationals.

The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement Response

Guided by its Fundamental Principles – humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity and universality – the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement (Movement) brings emergency relief to victims of disasters and conflicts and improves basic living conditions of those in need.

The American Red Cross

Guided by the Fundamental Principles of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement , the American Red Cross is a neutral and impartial organization that supports people affected by man made or natural disasters, crisis and emergencies at home and abroad based on need, regardless of nationality, race, religious beliefs, class, or political opinions. Further, the American Red Cross cannot and does not endorse any comments of a political nature.

The American Red Cross is monitoring the situation and stands in solidarity with all members of the Movement as they seek to meet the increased humanitarian needs caused by this conflict. The American Red Cross is responding to appeals, or formal requests for support, issued by Movement partners and based on need. The American Red Cross is currently supporting an appeal issued for Lebanon humanitarian relief. Humanitarian assistance in Lebanon , provided through the Movement, will include food, water, medical assistance such as first-aid, shelter and psychosocial assistance to the affected population. The American Red Cross will consider additional appeals for support if they are issued, such as appeals from the Magen David Adom in Israel and the Palestine Red Crescent Society.

American Red Cross volunteers and chapters are assisting individuals being evacuated to the U.S. due to this conflict. All service provided is based on need. Knowing that evacuation from a combat zone can be stressful for evacuees and their families, the Red Cross is providing comfort and care to evacuees in a number of ways.

The assistance provided to evacuees is similar to relief services that the America Red Cross provides during domestic disasters. At the request of the federal government, the American Red Cross is providing evacuees with shelter, food, first aid, and help in obtaining government assistance and emergency communications. The Red Cross may provide additional assistance including child care, mental health counseling, and personal-hygiene items if our federal partners request those services.

Updates regarding American Red Cross activities and fundraising will continue to be updated at www.redcross.org .

International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC)

In partnership with National Societies in the Middle East , the ICRC is working to alleviate the worst effects of the current violence in the region. There is particular concern about the situation in Lebanon , where emphasis is being placed on evacuating the wounded and delivering food and other essential items as stocks begin to run low. For more information about work in the conflict areas, visit www.icrc.org.

International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (Federation)

The Federation is focusing its efforts on the needs in surrounding countries where those fleeing the conflict are arriving and where the Red Cross and Red Crescent National Societies have expressed a need for additional support. For more information, please visit www.ifrc.org .

New Web site Launched for 2006 Hurricane Season

Safe and Well Web site excellent vehicle for helping disaster victims share welfare information with friends and family

WASHINGTON, Saturday, July 01, 2006 — A month into the 2006 hurricane season that began on June 1, the American Red Cross is launching the Safe and Well Website to provide families with a tool to exchange welfare information with loved ones and friends in the immediate aftermath of a disaster.

The overwhelming scope of the 2005 hurricane season challenged the Red Cross to develop innovative ways, such as the use of web-based technology, to help disaster victims communicate with loved ones outside of the disaster area. The Safe and Well Web site, accessible via http://www.redcross.org/ , allows a disaster victim to select and post standard messages for friends and family that indicate the victim is safe and well at a shelter, home or hotel and will make contact when they are able. Those worried about the safety of their family member can access the Safe and Well Web site, enter either the name and telephone number or name and complete address of the person in question and view their "safe and well" messages. There will be telephone-based assistance for those who cannot access this site and service via the Internet.

As with any other Red Cross service or product, the Safe and Well Web site safeguards the privacy of disaster victims. Messages will be viewable by friends and family, but the Web site will not reveal a registered person's location. Privacy laws require the Red Cross to protect each person's right to determine how best to communicate their contact information and whereabouts to family members.

The effectiveness of the Safe and Well Web site will depend largely on widespread awareness of what the tool can do, especially by populations living in disaster-prone areas and their family and loved ones.

In the wake of hurricanes Katrina, Rita and Wilma where millions of people were ordered to evacuate, the Red Cross urges all Americans to develop a family communication plan and make the Safe and Well Web site an integral part of it.

Important tips to remember when developing a family communication plan:

Preparing for a disaster, such as a hurricane, ahead of time can help alleviate the stress you may face during the storm, and ease the burden on your family and loved ones. For more information regarding how individuals and families can prepare for disasters visit http://www.redcross.org/ or contact your local Red Cross chapter.

Heat Can Be Dangerous--Take Precautions!

Tontitown , AR July 17, 2006 — The Northwest Arkansas Chapter of the American Red Cross offers these tips in response to temperature extremes predicted this week throughout Northwest Arkansas .

Extreme heat is more than an issue of discomfort. It forces the body into overdrive as it tries to stay cool through perspiration and evaporation. The effects of extreme heat can undermine your physical well-being so slowly and subtly that the dangers aren't apparent until it's too late.

It is important to know how to stay cool during extreme heat. Here are some guidelines to follow:

Stay indoors and avoid extreme temperature changes.

• If air conditioning is not available, stay on the lowest floor out of the sunshine.
• Keep your electric fans running but make sure to consume extra liquids to prevent dehydration associated with the fluid losses we experience due to sweating.
• Drink fluids (particularly water or juice) often, even if you do not feel thirsty, to help your body's thermostat stay cool. Avoid alcoholic beverages (including beer), which dehydrate the body.
• Eat small, frequent meals. Reduce foods that are high in protein, which increases metabolic heat.
• Keep pets indoors and refill their water bowls often. They are very heat sensitive
• If you must go outside, wear lightweight, light-colored clothing to reflect the sun's energy.
• Avoid strenuous outdoor activity. If you must engage in strenuous activity, do so in the coolest part of the day, between 4 am and 7 am.
• Cover all exposed skin with a high-SPF sunscreen, and wear a wide brimmed hat to protect your face and head. Never take a cool shower immediately after becoming overheated. You may cool too quickly and become ill, nauseous, or dizzy. Rest in a cool place first.

Please remain aware of the effects of heat on young children and the elderly. Keep a close watch on them for heat related
concerns. They are extremely vulnerable and may not be able to summon assistance in an emergency.

  If a health emergency arises due to extreme heat take the following steps:

Heat cramps : This is an early sign that the body is stressed by the heat. Press on cramping muscles or gently massage. Take sips of water unless nausea occurs. Move to a cool place. Avoid fluids with alcohol or caffeine.

Heat Exhaustion : Occurs with heavy exertion. Is a mild form of shock and can lead to Heat Stroke. Rest in a cool place. Loosen clothing and apply cool, wet cloths. Continue SLOWLY taking sips of water unless nausea occurs. If vomiting occurs, seek medical attention. Stay alert for changes in level of consciousness.

Heat Stroke (Sunstroke): This is a life threatening situation. Call 911 immediately for emergency medical services. Victims cease sweating and temperatures rise to dangerous levels. Remove clothing, and immerse in a cool bath, use a cool sponge bath or fan to attempt to lower body temperatures. DO NOT GIVE FLUIDS IF VOMITING. Watch for problems breathing.

Many Americans take medications that may place them at higher risk for heat related medical issues. Visit with your physician. Take a First Aid course from your local Red Cross and be prepared for an emergency.

Visit www.redcross.org or www.nws.noaa.gov for more information.

BARNES AND NOBLE TEAMS WITH AMERICAN RED CROSS
TO PROVIDE WATER SAFETY CLASSES

TONTITOWN, AR MAY 26, 2005 - Barnes and Noble Booksellers in Rogers and the Northwest Arkansas Chapter of the American Red Cross have teamed up to provide Northwest Arkansas residents with a series of safety presentations this summer. Red Cross instructors will offer a variety of programs for children and adults. The courses will be held at Barnes and Noble in Rogers and are free to the public. “We are extremely grateful to Barnes and Noble for providing us with the opportunity to share our preparedness message with their customers,” said Jody Dilday, spokesperson for the Northwest Arkansas Chapter. “This partnership is a natural fit for the Red Cross because, like us, Barnes and Noble is committed to providing quality educational programs for their customers.” “It is a unique opportunity to be able to partner with an organization such as the American Red Cross to offer the community information to help insure the safety of their families. By offering these safety discussions Barnes and Noble wishes to help our customers and our community have a safe and fun summer!” said Randall Gregory, spokesperson for Barnes and Noble.

A description of the presentations and a schedule are as follows:

Longfellow's WHALES Tales teaches safe behavior in, on and around the water and is designed for children ages 5-12.

Scrubby Bear is a personal hygiene presentation which teaches children proper hand washing techniques. Scrubby Bear is intended for children ages 4-7.

American Red Cross Safe Baby Presentation provides participant's with the knowledge and skills to sustain an infant's life and minimize the consequences of injury or sudden illness until advanced medical help arrives. The Safe Baby presentation is ideal for parents and caregivers of small children.

TOGETHE WE PREPARE encourages five actions that every organization, individual and family should take to better prepare themselves for an emergency or disaster.

Saturday, June 3 rd , 2006 Kick Off Day/Whales Tales Grades K – 6 th
Lesson 1 – Swim with a Buddy…
1:00 – 1:30 PM

Safe Baby Parents
1:40 – 3:00 PM

Tuesday, June 6 th , 2006 Scrubby Bear Ages 4 – 7
1:00 – 1:30 PM

Tuesday, June 13 th , 2006 Scrubby Bear Ages 4 – 7
1:00 – 1:30 PM

Tuesday, June 20 th , 2006 Whales Tales Grades K – 6 th
Lesson 2 – Be Cool, Follow the Rule
1:00 – 1:30 PM

Saturday, July 8. 2006 Together We Prepare Family Grades 1 st
Lessons 1-2
1:00 – 2:00 PM

Tuesday, July 11,2006 Whales Tales Grades K – 6 th
Lesson 3 – Look Before You Leap
1:00 – 1:30 PM

Safe Baby Parents
1:40 – 3:00 PM

Tuesday, July 18, 2006 Whales Tales Grades K – 6 th
Lesson 4 – Think So You Don't Sink
1:00 – 1:30 PM

For more information on staying safe in and around the water, or to learn about other life-saving skills training visit www.nwarkansasredcross.org or contact the Northwest Arkansas Chapter at 479/442-4291.

Barnes and Noble offers several different in-store events catering to all age groups such as story-times, book-groups, author signings and fundraising opportunities for non-profit organizations and schools. Our mission is to help in all areas of arts, literacy and educational needs. If you have questions you may contact the Community Relations Manager at 1-479-636-2807.

About American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross is where people mobilize to help their neighbors—across the street, across the country and across the world—in emergencies. Each year, in communities large and small, victims of some 70,000 disasters turn to neighbors familiar and new—the nearly 1 million volunteers and 35,000 employees of the Red Cross. Through almost 900 locally supported chapters, more than 15 million people gain the skills they need to prepare for and respond to emergencies in their homes, communities and world.  Some 4 million people give blood—the gift of life—through the Red Cross, making it the largest supplier of blood and blood products in the United States .  The Red Cross helps thousands of U.S. service members separated from their families by military duty stay connected.  As part of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, a global network of 181 national societies, the Red Cross helps restore hope and dignity to the world's most vulnerable people.   An average of 91 cents of every dollar the Red Cross spends is invested in humanitarian services and programs. The Red Cross is not a government agency; it relies on donations of time, money, and blood to do its work. Jack McGuire is the interim President and CEO of the American Red Cross.

About Barnes and Noble:

NORTHWEST ARKANSAS CHAPTER LAUNCHES
RED CROSS CLUBS FOR KIDS

TONTITOWN, AR. Tuesday, May 23, 2006The Northwest Arkansas Chapter of the American Red Cross held its first "Red Cross Club for Kids" meeting on Tuesday, May 23rd. .  Elementary students from Bentonville, Rogers, Springdale and Fayetteville a ttended this informational session with their parents.  The Red Cross Club is a service club which engages youth in community service under the humanitarian mission of the American Red Cross.   The club will make cards and write letters to send to U.S. Troops at the next club meeting June 13, 2006 at 6:30 p.m. at the Chapter headquarters in Tontitown.   For more information about Red Cross Clubs contact Carmen Newberry, Community Relations Program Specialist at 479/442-4291.

RED CROSS TORNADO RESPONSE CONTINUES

TONTITOWN, AR. Friday, March 17, 2006 – The Northwest Arkansas Chapter of the American Red Cross and its trained cadre of volunteers continue to respond with comfort and compassion to Benton County residents impacted by Sunday's tornado.

Two Emergency Response Vehicles (ERVs) deliver hot meals each night to neighborhoods in Gentry, Centerton, Bentonville and Little Flock. Caseworkers man Red Cross Service Centers at the First Baptist Church of Centerton as well as the Shewmaker Center on the campus of Northwest Arkansas Community College , ready to dispense much needed supplies such as tarps, trash bags, sunscreen, bottled water and diapers. Families can also meet with caseworkers to receive financial assistance for groceries, clothing, and minor building repairs. All of this is made possible by the generous contributions of time and money to the American Red Cross.

The Red Cross reached 35 families today with financial assistance, clean up supplies and health services. Meteorologists are predicting significant rainfall for the weekend but that will not slow down Red Cross outreach teams, which will continue to canvas the affected neighborhoods offering assistance to families recovering from the storm.

The Chapter will hold a training session on Family Service Casework on Saturday from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the chapter's headquarters in Tontitown. Volunteers need not register for the class, and size is not limited. Family Service Casework is the method by which Red Cross disaster relief is delivered.

A community meeting will be held at 2:00 p.m. Sunday, March 19 th at the First Baptist Church of Centerton for anyone affected by the tornado. The Crisis Center will lead this informational meeting and discuss the emotional effects of a disaster and the journey towards recovery. A special informational meeting for parents will follow and will address ways to help children cope with the effects of a disaster.

For more information regarding the mission and services of the American Red Cross, as well as resources on disaster preparedness, log onto www.nwarkansasredcross.org .

RED CROSS TORNADO RELIEF UPDATE

Residents who have been affected by the disaster and are in need of assistance are encouraged to meet with a Red Cross caseworker between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. at whichever location is most convenient and accessible to them. The Red Cross will be able to provide assistance and referrals to help families who need food, clothing, housing, minor building repairs, and household items. The amount of Red Cross assistance is determined based on family size and the extent of property damage.

The chapter utilized 29 disaster relief workers and provided 93 meals to affected families and emergency service workers yesterday.

In addition to the on-going response in Benton County , the chapter responded to an apartment fire in Eureka Springs this morning. Six of 20 units were affected and six families were displaced. The Red Cross is providing shelter to the affected families as well has assistance with food and clothing.

NORTHWEST ARKANSAS CHAPTER
RESPONDS TO BENTON COUNTY TORNADO

CENTERTON , AR , March 13, 2006 — In response to last night's devastating storms, the Northwest Arkansas Chapter of the American Red Cross responded by mobilizing disaster relief workers to meet the emergency needs of those affected.

The Red Cross opened a shelter at the First Baptist Church of Centerton ( 351 W. Centerton Blvd. ) at 11:30 p.m. Sunday. The shelter will remain open tonight for anyone displaced by the storm. The chapter will re-evaluate on Tuesday morning the need for on-going sheltering.

The shelter location also serves as an emergency aid station where emergency service workers and affected residents can receive bottled water, snacks and meals.

Red Cross disaster assessment teams have been out all morning surveying the damage and identifying the homes affected. Seventy-five Disaster Clean-Up Kits have been ordered and will be distributed to residents beginning tomorrow morning.

Through a long-standing partnership with the Southern Baptist Disaster Relief Association, the Red Cross will serve an evening meal tonight at First Baptist Church Centerton (6 p.m.) and will provide mobile feeding to affected residents in Little Flock, Gentry and Bentonville.

Residents who have been affected by the disaster and are in need of assistance are encouraged to call the chapter at 1-866-692-7572.

All American Red Cross disaster assistance is free, made possible by voluntary donations of time and money from the American people. You can help the victims of the March 12 Tornado and thousands of other disasters across the country each year by making a financial gift to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund, which enables the Red Cross to provide shelter, food, counseling and other assistance to those in need. Call 1-800-HELP NOW or 1-800-257-7575 (Spanish). Contributions to the Disaster Relief Fund may be sent to your local American Red Cross chapter at PO Box 789, Tontitown, AR 72703, or to the American Red Cross, P. O. Box 37243, Washington, DC 20013. Internet users can make a secure online contribution by visiting www.redcross.org.

POPULAR LOCAL RADIO PERSONALITY “ARRESTED”

FAYETTEVILLE , AR March 10, 2006 – A popular local radio personality was “arrested” today by the Washington County Sheriff's office on charges of “Criminal Ignorance.” It seems that Joe Farmer, of Sam 98's Farmer and Dawn does not know about Red Cross services in Northwest Arkansas .

The Northwest Arkansas Chapter of the American Red Cross is in the midst of its “Heroes Campaign,” a grass roots effort to raise awareness and support for local Red Cross services. For three weeks (March 1-25) volunteers and participating businesses will distribute information regarding Red Cross services and collect pledges and contributions for the campaign. The results of the campaign will be announced at the 4 th annual Celebration of Heroes April 1 at Embassy Suites.

Washington County Sheriff Tim Helder is the chairperson for the Heroes Campaign in Fayetteville . He plans to raise $25,000 with help from his campaign team Rick Hoyt, Jay Cantrell, Shannon McCuin all with the Sheriff's Department, Butch Scruggs with Superior Industries and the Northwest Arkansas Mall. The DJ lockup was the brainchild of Bridget Elkins, Marketing Manager for the Northwest Arkansas Mall . “We hope that this event will help raise the community's awareness about our local Red Cross chapter and how they make a difference in everything they do,” said Elkins.

When approached, Anita Cowan, Promotions Director for Cumulus Broadcasting quickly agreed to join in the effort. “Cumulus Broadcasting is always looking for opportunities to help the community and having Joe Farmer incarcerated seemed like a long over due idea to me,” says Anita Cowan.

The Northwest Arkansas Chapter of the American Red Cross will have volunteers at the mall throughout the “incarceration” to distribute information on disaster preparedness, health and safety services and service to the military as well as collect gifts and pledges for the Heroes Campaign. “We are extremely grateful to the Northwest Arkansas Mall, Cumulus Broadcasting, the Washington County Sheriff's office and especially Joe Farmer, for helping us raise awareness of our life-saving mission” said Jody Dilday, Director of Development and Community Relations for the chapter.

One hundred percent of the funds raised will remain in Northwest Arkansas to provide disaster relief, provide life-saving skills training, and to communicate emergency messages to members of the United States Military. The Northwest Arkansas Chapter responded to 93 local disasters last year (primarily house and apartment fires), communicated 382 emergency messages to soldiers, and trained 13, 695 people in life-saving skills.

If you'd like to become a Hero for the Red Cross, you may leave your gift or pledge at the Red Cross information booth (located near the Food Court ) during Mall hours at the Northwest Arkansas Mall, or log onto www.nwarkansasredcross.org and click on HEROES CAMPAIGN to make a pledge.

AMERICAN RED CROSS LAUNCHES “HEROES” CAMPAIGN  

Rogers , AR March 1, 2006 – The Northwest Arkansas Chapter, with the help of community leaders and the support of local businesses, today launched the “Heroes Campaign” with a kickoff held at the corporate offices of Celebrate Magazine in Pinnacle Hills. The “Heroes Campaign” is a grass-roots effort to raise awareness and support for local Red Cross services. For three weeks (March 1-25) volunteers and participating businesses will distribute information regarding Red Cross services and collect pledges and contributions for the chapter. The results of the campaign will be announced at the 4 th annual Celebration of Heroes April 1 at Embassy Suites.

Campaign leaders and volunteers gathered this morning at the offices of Celebrate Magazine to receive their campaign packets. Celebrate Magazine will be the presenting sponsor for the Celebration of Heroes and hosted today's kickof f . “Celebrate Arkansas Magazine and the American Red Cross are celebrating together today. We celebrate these community leaders as they kick off the Heroes Campaign, and we'll celebrate together again at the conclusion of the campaign when we honor heroes at the Celebration of Heroes,” said Mari See, publisher of Celebrate Arkansas Magazine.  

Campaign co-chairs are Dick Trammel and Rick McLeod. “I'm pleased to help the Northwest Arkansas Chapter with the Heroes Campaign,” said Trammel. “You never know when you'll need help from the Red Cross in your own backyard.”

Community Chairs in Bentonville, Rogers , Springdale , Siloam Springs and Fayetteville have assembled “Hero” Teams to raise $25,000 within their respective communities. Different teams will utilize different strategies to reach their goals. Plans include a Texas Hold ‘Em style poker tournament, employee jeans days, and customer donation programs at various banks, restaurants, and retailers.

“The Heroes Campaign is reminiscent of the old Red Cross Roll Call of the 1920s and 30s, when nearly 80% of all Americans gave a small annual gift. ” said Jody Dilday, Director of Development for the Northwest Arkansas Chapter, “The Heroes Campaign is not a major gifts campaign. This is about the Power of One : ONE person, ONE dollar, ONE volunteer hour, or ONE pint of blood. One person really can save a life.”

If you'd like to become a Hero for the Red Cross, click here to make a pledge.

FIRST AID FOR FIDO FROM THE AMERICAN RED CROSS

Manual helps pet lovers meet health and safety needs of four-legged furry loved ones [TONTITOWN, AR] - The American Red Cross is known for helping to keep Northwest Arkansans and their families healthy and safe. Now with "Pet First Aid," its guide to preventing, preparing for and responding to emergencies, the Northwest Arkansas Chapter is spreading the word that it can do the same for four-legged loved ones as well.

The chapter is offering a Pet First Aid course: a three-hour session that provides hands-on training for some of the issues the book addresses. The course will be held on Saturday, December 10th, from 9:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. The $25 course fee includes participants' materials such as the Pet First Aid handbook.

"Pet First Aid" explains emergency care procedures for cats and dogs in simple terms. Written by Bobbie Mammato, DVM, MPH, it runs just over one hundred pages, features more than 130 illustrations, and offers step-by-step directions for topics from giving medication to administering CPR and rescue breathing. The book retails for $12.95 and is available at the Northwest Arkansas Chapter.

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, almost 38 million households had a dog and a little more than 33 million had a cat in 2002. "This guide is a must-have for pet lovers-homes with pets really should not be without it," points out Stephanie Reno, Director of Health and Safety Services for the chapter. "We know pet owners enjoy a very special bond with their pets-they're a part of the family. Just like with people, accidents and emergencies can happen and being prepared by knowing what to do could make a lifesaving difference."

Guidance from "Pet First Aid" includes:

• Pay attention to what is normal for your pet so you can detect signals when something is wrong.
• Dogs who hang their heads out of car windows can be injured by flying debris. Keep your pet safely inside any moving vehicle and never transport your pet in the back of an open pickup truck.
• Keep contact information of your veterinarian, 24-hour veterinary emergency hospital, National Animal Poison Control Center and animal shelter or animal care and control agency readily available.

"This manual is another lifesaving resource that supports our mission of keeping Northwest Arkansas and their families healthy and safe," said Reno. "It's a perfect addition to home reference libraries and makes a great gift!"

For more information or to register for the course, contact the Health and Safety Department at 479-442-4291 or email us at sreno@nwarkansasredcross.org.

Taste of the World: Celebrating Diversity

December 12, 2005 - Tontitown, AR - We are excited to announce that the American Red Cross and the Ozark Food Bank have joined together to organize a unique event which will celebrate the cultural diversity of our community through food, song, and dance.

“Taste of the World” will be held on Saturday, January 14, 2006, from 6:00 p.m. to midnight at the Fayetteville Town Center in Fayetteville, AR and will feature 27 of Northwest Arkansas' finest restaurants as well as entertainment by some of our area's most popular musicians and dancers.

You can help us make this event possible by becoming a Taste of the World sponsor. Proceeds from this event will help support the initiatives of the Northwest Arkansas Chapter of the American Red Cross and the Ozark Food Bank.

Click here for the Sponsorship form. **
Click here to download ticket information.**
**This file is in .doc format. You must have MSWord to view this file.

Please consider supporting “Taste of the World” with your sponsorship and help us celebrate the rich diversity of our community, while supporting the important work of the Red Cross and Ozark Food Bank…..because Hunger and Suffering Know No Color.

Tyson Foods Gives More than $1.5 million to Relief Efforts

SPRINGDALE , AR. – Friday, December 9, 2005 – A longtime partner in providing disaster relief, Tyson Foods, Inc. (NYSE: TSN) contributed more than $1.5 million in food products and financial assistance to the disaster relief efforts during this year's unprecedented hurricane season. This amount exceeds the company's original goal of $1 million.

The company today presented checks totaling more than $455,000 to local representatives of the American Red Cross and Salvation Army. The money is from contributions by Tyson Team Members that were matched dollar for dollar by the company. Tyson also donated more than $1.1 million worth of food, water, ice and other supplies in the aftermath of the hurricanes, including food donations to relief sites operated by the Red Cross, Salvation Army, Southern Baptist Disaster Relief teams and Global Impact.

“I'm proud of the tremendous outpouring of support by our Team Members and our company as we joined others across the country in the relief effort,” said John Tyson, chairman and CEO of Tyson Foods. “I'm also thankful for organizations like the American Red Cross and the Salvation Army and their ability to help meet the needs of those whose lives have been changed by these storms.”

“We are extremely grateful to Tyson Foods and their team members for their tremendous support of Red Cross disaster relief efforts” said Lee Siler, Executive Director of the Northwest Arkansas Chapter.  “By partnering with generous corporate supporters like Tyson Foods and relief organizations such as the Southern Baptist Disaster Relief Association, the Red Cross has been able to serve 54 million meals and snacks and provide immediate assistance to 1.6 million families devastated by this year's hurricanes. We simply could not fulfill our life-saving mission without these important partners.”

“The Salvation Army is blessed to have a supporter such as, Tyson Foods, to help us provide assistance to our local residents as well as those victims of disasters in other states,” stated Major Wesley Short, Area Commander of The Salvation Army, Northwest Arkansas . “Many thanks to John Tyson and all the employees that made this donation possible."

The Salvation Army's new branding theme, “Doing The Most Good”, is put into practice every day, as it helps individuals and families, not only in national disasters, but also in local emergency situations, Major Short said. The Salvation Army responded immediately following Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, and Wilma, serving the immediate needs of survivors by providing shelter, food, water, ice, cleaning supplies, baby items and hygiene products. More than one million have been served in at least 30 states.

Tyson operations in Mississippi were directly affected by Hurricane Katrina. Four Tyson poultry processing plants were temporarily idled because of the loss of power and some contract poultry operations also experienced power outages, bird loss and damage to buildings. The company provided truckloads of food, water and ice to the affected plant communities and had cooking teams at some locations. The impact of Hurricane Rita on the company's Texas operations was minor; however the company did send truckloads of food and water to affected Tyson plant communities.

About Tyson Foods, Inc.

Tyson Foods, Inc., founded in 1935 with headquarters in Springdale , Arkansas , is the world's largest processor and marketer of chicken, beef and pork and the second-largest food company in the Fortune 500. The company produces a wide variety of protein-based and prepared food products, which are marketed under the "Powered by Tyson(TM)" strategy. Tyson is the recognized market leader in the retail and foodservice markets it serves, providing products and service to customers throughout the United States and more than 80 countries. Tyson has approximately 114,000 Team Members employed at more than 300 facilities and offices in the United States and around the world.

About The American Red Cross

The American Red Cross is where people mobilize to help their neighbors—across the street, across the country and across the world—in emergencies. Each year, in communities large and small, victims of some 70,000 disasters turn to neighbors familiar and new—the nearly 1 million volunteers and 35,000 employees of the Red Cross. Through almost 900 locally supported chapters, more than 15 million people gain the skills they need to prepare for and respond to emergencies in their homes, communities and world.  Some 4 million people give blood—the gift of life—through the Red Cross, making it the largest supplier of blood and blood products in the United States .  The Red Cross helps thousands of U.S. service members separated from their families by military duty stay connected.  As part of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, a global network of 181 national societies, the Red Cross helps restore hope and dignity to the world's most vulnerable people.  An average of 91 cents of every dollar the Red Cross spends is invested in humanitarian services and programs. The Red Cross is not a government agency; it relies on donations of time, money, and blood to do its work. Marsha J. Evans is the President and CEO of the American Red Cross .

About The Salvation Army

The Salvation Army, an evangelical part of the universal Christian church, has been supporting those in need in His name without discrimination since 1865. Nearly 34 million Americans receive assistance from The Salvation Army each year through the broadest array of social services that range from providing food for the hungry, relief for disaster victims, assistance for the disabled, outreach to the elderly and ill, clothing and shelter to the homeless and opportunities for underprivileged children. About 92 cents of every dollar raised is used to support those services in nearly 5,000 communities nationwide.

Contacts: Jody Dilday, American Red Cross, 479-442-4291
Barbara Whitlow, Salvation Army, 479-521-2151 ext. 29
Gary Mickelson, Tyson Foods, 479-290-6111

JB HUNT TRANSPORT SERVICES, INC. EMPLOYEES
SUPPORT RELIEF EFFORTS

TONTITOWN, AR.  Monday  October 1 7 , 2005 - When Hurricane Katrina made landfall along the Gulf Coast, the overwhelming images of devastation and suffering spurred residents and corporations in Northwest Arkansas into action. J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc.'s employees supported the efforts with financial gifts as well as their time and talents.

On September 2, 2005, J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc. challenged its employees to raise funds for the Hurricane Katrina relief effort. The company agreed to match the total raised within 24 hours. The employees of J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc. raised a total of $27,164.40 and the company then rounded up and matched the employee's contributions for a total donation of $55,000.

"The Red Cross had announced that cash donations would bring the most benefit to the victims of this disaster. We had numerous employees asking us what they could do to help so it only made sense to organize a fundraiser that everyone could participate in," said Kirk Thompson, president and CEO for J.B. Hunt. "The overwhelming response speaks to the true character of J.B. Hunt employees and reaffirms our belief that they are the best in the business, both inside and outside the office."

Meanwhile, countless employees of J.B. Hunt Transport services were volunteering at the local chapter. Information and technology specialists were at the chapter networking computers, wiring the building's numerous internet outlets, and installing a wireless server. Members of the company's human resources department were helping the chapter enter new volunteers into the human resource software just as fast as they could be trained. This was no small undertaking, as the chapter was training 200 and 500 new volunteers at each session!

"The volunteers from J.B. Hunt Transport were a lifesaver!" said Carmen Newberry, Volunteer Coordinator for the Northwest Arkansas Chapter. "They were able to bring their expertise to our chapter during a critical time. Our chapter has a paid staff of only seven, so when the volunteers from great corporate partners like J.B. Hunt are here, our manpower triples!"

On September 9, 2005, Amy Bain, Executive Assistant to Kirk Thompson, contacted the local chapter and exclaimed "I can't stop the money from flowing into my office!" Again, the company challenged its employees with another match, and again the employees responded. An additional $23,471.02 was raised and matched for a total donation of $47, 326.04.

"The American Red Cross is not a government agency; we rely on the generosity of the American public to do our work. We are incredibly grateful to J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc. and their employees for their outpouring of support," said Lee Siler, Executive Director of the Northwest Arkansas Chapter.

To date, the employees of J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc. have contributed $102,325.04 to the American Red Cross and have partnered with the chapter as skilled and trained volunteers, supporting the life-saving mission of the American Red Cross in Northwest Arkansas.

About J.B. Hunt:
J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc., one of the largest transportation logistics companies in North America, focuses on the safe and reliable transport of full truckload freight to a diverse group of customers throughout the continental United States, Canada and Mexico. Our business operations are primarily organized through three distinct, yet complementary, business segments that include dedicated contract services, intermodal and dry van. Utilizing an integrated approach, we provide capacity oriented solutions centered on delivering customer value and industry leading service.

Our stock is traded on NASDAQ under the ticker symbol JBHT and is a component of the Dow Jones Transportation Average. For more information about our company, visit www.jbhunt.com .

NORTHWEST ARKANSAS KATRINA RELIEF SUMMARY

TONTITOWN, AR.  Wednesday, October 25, 2005 - It has been 58 days since Hurricane Katrina made landfall.  In response to the devastation along the Gulf Coast, the American Red Cross launched its largest mobilization of resources in the organization's 125-year history.  And while the statistics of this nationwide effort are staggering, the local response is impressive as well.

The Northwest Arkansas Chapter of the American Red Cross has opened 1,395 cases, made 1,611 disaster mental health contacts, and distributed 237 comfort kits.

The chapter has opened 3 fixed feeding sites and served 1,346 meals and opened one shelter which housed 43 individuals. The chapter has also provided supportive services as requested to government and faith-based shelters in the area.

The chapter has trained 824 new volunteers in 10 training sessions and held 16 orientation sessions to 188 office volunteers.  The chapter has utilized 150 volunteers and 7 staff members on this relief operation.

The chapter has raised $883,343 in contributions and provided $936,271 in individual assistance. In-kind donations received by the chapter are valued at $17,390.

RED CROSS OFFERS HALLOWEEN SAFETY TIPS
FOR KIDS AND ADULTS

TONTITOWN, October 25, 2005- With witches, goblins, and super-heroes descending on neighborhoods across Northwest Arkansas on Halloween night, the local chapter of the American Red Cross offers parents safety tips to help prepare their children for a safe and enjoyable trick-or-treat holiday. Halloween should be filled with surprise and enjoyment, and following some common sense practices can keep events safer and more fun.

• Walk, slither, and sneak on sidewalks, not in the street.
• Look both ways before crossing the street to check for cars, trucks,
  and low-flying brooms.
• Cross the street only at corners.
• Don't hide or cross the street between parked cars.
• Wear light-colored or reflective-type clothing so you are more
  visible. (And remember to put reflective tape on bikes, skateboards,
  and brooms, too!)
• Plan your route and share it with your family. If possible, have an
  adult go with you.
• Carry a flashlight to light your way.
• Keep away from open fires and candles. (Costumes can be extremely
  flammable.)
• Visit homes that have the porch light on.
• Accept your treats at the door and never go into a stranger's house.
• Use face paint rather than masks or things that will cover your
  eyes.
• Be cautious of animals and strangers.
• Have a grown-up inspect your treats before eating. And don't eat
  candy if the package is already opened. Small, hard pieces of candy are a choking hazard for young children.
• Make sure your children know where to meet in case they become
  separated.

AMERICAN RED CROSS WARNS OF SCAMS
TONTITOWN, AR.

Friday, September 9, 2005 –While most Americans have responded to Hurricane Katrina with overwhelming generosity, some individuals are attempting to profit from the disaster. If you see any suspicious websites, collection sites or print ads soliciting donations on behalf of the Red Cross, please contact Jody Dilday at the Northwest Arkansas Chapter of the American Red Cross at 479-442-4291.

If your business, civic club, school or other organization would like to host a fundraiser to benefit the National Disaster Relief Fund, please complete a 3rd party fundraising agreement which can be downloaded from the chapter’s website at www.nwarkansasredcross.org. Click on “Hurricane Katrina: How Can I Help” then “host your own fundraiser.”

September 1, 2005  10:40 a.m.

The Chapter is being flooded with calls from individual families offering to house indivuals and families who have evacuated their homes and sought refuge in Northwest Arkansas.   Although we greatly appreciate the generosity of our neighbors, the Red Cross is not coordinating an effort to place families with families.  If you would like to help these families in a personal, face-to-face manner, please volunteer to work in our evaucation shelter. 

We are offering training on Mass Care/Sheltering on Friday from 1-4 p.m. and again Thursday September 8th from 6-9 p.m.

Financial gifts can be made by calling 1-800-HELP-NOW, by logging onto www.redcross.org , or at several area donation sights including the Northwest Arkansas Mall, Frisco Station Mall,  the Northwest Arkansas Regional Airport, and at the Razorback Football game this Saturday and again Saturday September 10th.  

Donations can be mailed to our chapter at PO BOX 789, Tontitown, AR 72770.

Specific items that are needed at the local chapter include:     

• prepaid gasoline cards for our volunteers and staff (who are using their personal vehicles running errands back and forth between the shelter, the chapter, and local media outlets)  
• Canned food items and non-perishable food items can be utilzed at our shelter but MUST be coordinated first through Denise at 479-442-4291.

Thank you, Northwest Arkansas, for helping us help our neighbors in need. 

TONTITOWN, AR Sunday, August 28, 2005

In preparation for Hurricane Katrina, which is expected to make landfall as a Category 5 hurricane, the Northwest Arkansas Chapter of the American Red Cross is actively recruiting and training disaster relief volunteers.   

Red Cross "Introduction to Mass Care" will be provided from 6-9 p.m. on Monday, August 29th and again from 1-4 p.m. on Friday September 2nd.   Both classes will be held at the Chapter's headquarters located at 250 Industrial Circle East in Tontitown.  All Red Cross volunteers must complete this course prior to being deployed to a hurricane assignment.  Call Carmen at 479-442-4291 to register for either class. 

HELP VICTIMS OF HURRICANE KATRINA

Make a financial donation online at www.redcross.org

Make a financial donation by phone at 1-800-HELP-NOW

Mail a financial donation to : 
American Red Cross Northwest Arkansas Chapter
PO Box 789
Tontitown, AR 72770

*Be sure to indicate "Katrina" in the memo

AMERICAN RED CROSS PREPARES TO MEET KATRINA

TONTITOWN, AR. Friday, August 26, 2005 -

Meteorologists are watching Tropical Storm Katrina closely as it washes over the Bahamas and heads for the Florida coast, where it is expected to make landfall sometime on Friday. Meanwhile, fourteen Northwest Arkansans are making preparations to travel into the path of the storm.

A hurricane watch and tropical storm warning are currently in effect for Florida's east coast from Vero Beach, about 150 miles north of Miami, south into the Florida Keys.

Twelve members of a Red Cross "Strike Team" are on stand-by in Northwest Arkansas. These 12 individuals will fly into the affected area and set up shelters, open kitchens and provide disaster relief to those affected by the storm. An additional two-man team is ready to drive into the storm in the Northwest Arkansas Chapter's ERV (Emergency Response Vehicle). Once in the disaster area, the ERV team will deliver hot meals utilizing the vehicle as a mobile feeding unit.

These individuals are no strangers to disaster. Some have made multiple trips to disaster areas as Red Cross Disaster Relief volunteers. Many traveled to Florida and Alabama during last year's record-breaking hurricane season.

The Red Cross relies on volunteers to fulfill its life-saving mission. The Northwest Arkansas Chapter holds new volunteer orientation on the second Tuesday of every month from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the Chapter headquarters located at 250 Industrial Circle East in Tontitown.

The major concern with Katrina, this year's 11th named storm, is flooding rather than wind damage. Southern Florida is already saturated from several of the storms that have moved through the state this year. That combined with Katrina's slow wind speed means it may sit over the area for a long period of time, dumping excessive amounts of rain.

AMERICAN RED CROSS WELCOMES COMMUNITY INPUT

TONTITOWN, AR. Tuesday, August 16, 2005 -

The Northwest Arkansas Chapter of the American Red Cross invites the public to attend a Community Forum on Tuesday August 30, , 2005 at 5:30 p.m. at the chapter headquarters in Tontitown. The purpose of the Forum is to allow members of the community an opportunity to offer guidance, suggestions and input to Red Cross Board of Directors, staff, and volunteers on how the organization can best meet the needs of our growing community.