Resuming Trash Routes

Amber Kruth (TheKruthTalks@gmail.com)

Fayetteville trash was not picked up Thursday or Friday last week because of inclement weather. The trash route will continue on the normal day this week. For questions regarding collection, visit www.accessfayetteville.org or call the Solid Waste and Recycling Division at 575-8398.

AI ‘Jeopardy!’

There is now a computer, named Watson, competing on the game show “Jeopardy!” Although in most regards that doesn’t seem fair, it does lead to interesting theories about artificial intelligence. Watson is set to compete Feb. 14-16 with “Jeopardy!” champions Ken Jennings and Brad Rutter. The fascinating thing about this adventure is that the questions will be written in true “Jeopardy!” fashion. IBM will donate the $1 million prize, if won by Watson, to World Vision and World Community Grid charities.

Not Blowing Smoke

I saw a commercial over the weekend that I gained personal enjoyment from. Instead of smoking cigarettes, people were blowing soap bubbles. Being a former smoker — and a lover of bubbles — I thought this was brilliant. It addresses the cultural socialization and the oral fixation (minus the inhalation and toxic addiction). You are likely to see many more anti-smoking campaigns since The American Lung Association Report Card gave Arkansas poor scores for tobacco prevention, control spending and cigarette tax.
The report detailed that in Arkansas there are 4,915 estimated deaths and $2.2 billion lost in the state economy for health care and lost productivity because of smoking. Call 1-800-QUIT-NOW or visit www.stampoutsmoking.com if you are interested in snubbing the butt.

Harassing Honkers

For many, Canada geese symbolize the transition of seasons with their honking, V-formation migrations. In many areas, however, the geese stay year-round and become a nuisance because of their high bacterial feces, noise and aggressive behavior.
Bella Vista is seeking volunteers to help control the geese population by egg oiling, because hunting the birds is prohibited under federal law. Anyone with a nest location or interest in volunteering can visit www.BellaVistaPOA.com/grip. The first volunteer orientation will be Tuesday, March 15.

Hearing Aid

Electronic communication has become something of a necessity, and some believe families should at least have a basic land line. “Parents need to be able to communicate with a child’s school … law enforcement, public safety and other public services,” said Arkansas Attorney General Dustin McDaniel. The federal Universal Services Fund has a Lifeline Program paired with Link-up America that allows low-income citizens to qualify for discounted phone service. For more information, visit www.lifelinesupport.org or call 888-641-8722.

Categories: Commentary