Simmons hires sales, production chief
Jodie Cochran has joined Simmons Bank as the national sales and production manager of mortgage warehouse lending. Cochran will be responsible for client acquisition and training, department marketing, and development of referral sources in the mortgage banking industry. She will also be instrumental in shaping the platform’s future expansion, according to a news release.
“Jodie brings an exceptional depth of expertise and leadership to our mortgage and warehouse lending business,” said David Frase, president of warehouse lending of Simmons Bank. “Her nearly 25 years of experience combined with her industry recognition, make her a tremendous asset as we continue to expand our offerings and client relationships.”
Previoulsy, Cochran spent most of her tenure in correspondent sales with two large money center banks.
Cochran holds a degree from Southwestern Oklahoma State University.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
She is an accredited mortgage professional, certified mortgage banker as well as a certified mortgage leader.
She is a graduate of the National Mortgage Bankers Association’s Future Leaders Program and School of Mortgage Banking where she received the Willis Bryant Award for her outstanding academic achievement and exceptional leadership qualities. She is a past president of the Texas Mortgage Bankers Association.
ARTx3 cancels Fun Day
The ARTx3 Campus cancelled the Second Saturday Family FunDay that had been scheduled from 1-3 p.m. Oct. 11 at the ARTSpace on Main, 623 S. Main St., according to a news release.
CARTI sets Mammograms, Muffins
The Breast Center at CARTI will hold its annual Mammograms and Muffins events in Pine Bluff in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Mammograms will be offered take Oct. 13-14 from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., as well as Oct. 15-16 from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at CARTI, 5001 Bobo Road.
The Breast Center at CARTI recommends that women of average risk begin receiving annual mammograms at age 40. Individuals at higher risk, such as those with family histories of breast cancer, should speak to their healthcare providers about considering earlier or additional screenings, according to a news release.
“The data is clear: mammograms are the gold standard of breast cancer screening,” said Dr. Stephen Routon, a fellowship-trained breast imaging specialist. “In October and year-round, The Breast Center at CARTI is committed to making it as easy and convenient as possible for women to receive their annual screenings. Early detection is crucial to saving lives from breast cancer.”
In addition to their annual screenings next week, women can also enter giveaways and receive free educational materials. Those interested in scheduling an appointment may call (501) 537-MAMO.
ASP sets safety campaign
To enhance pedestrian and bike safety across Arkansas roadways, the Arkansas State Police Highway Safety Office is launching the “Extreme Safety” campaign.
Running from Oct. 6-18 and aligning with National Pedestrian Safety Month, this initiative aims to address the pressing concerns surrounding road safety for the most vulnerable road users, according to a news release.
According to recent data, pedestrian fatalities in Arkansas reached a 10-year high in 2020, with 81 deaths. The 2023 statistics reveal there were 74 pedestrian fatalities. Urban areas remain particularly hazardous, accounting for 70% of pedestrian fatalities, with most incidents (78%) occurring between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m.
“Many of us fail to realize that pedestrians and cyclists are often at higher risk on our roadways,” said Arkansas Public Safety Secretary Colonel Mike Hagar. “Whether walking, cycling or driving, every Arkansan can help make Arkansas a safer place for all road users by staying alert, following safety guidelines and taking responsibility for road safety.”
The “Extreme Safety” campaign will focus on critical safety tips for motorists and vulnerable road users. For motorists, the campaign highlights the importance of avoiding distractions, adhering to speed limits and being particularly cautious at crosswalks. Cyclists are urged to wear helmets, check their brakes and follow road rules, while pedestrians are reminded to use sidewalks, cross at designated areas and remain vigilant of their surroundings.
For details, visit https://www.nhtsa.gov/road-safety/bicycle-safety or https://www.nhtsa.gov/road-safety/pedestrian-safety or call the Arkansas Highway Safety Office at (501) 618-8136.