Arkansas Society reviving in Washington

WASHINGTON — For nearly a century, the Arkansas State Society was a well-publicized magnet for Natural State residents who lived in the nation’s capital, a networking tool for newcomers and a place for old-timers to reconnect.

But the organization ground to a halt in recent years, with its membership rolls depleted and its calendar of events empty.

In January, for the first time in memory, the group failed to sponsor any inaugural activities.

Disappointed by the inactivity, a group of Arkansans volunteered to restart the organization. They held a kickoff reception earlier this month and spread the word; more than 100 people showed up, including three members of the Arkansas congressional delegation.

A couple of weeks later, with help from the National Conference of State Societies, they had an election, tapping a new president and filling a number of long-vacant posts. They also kicked off a membership drive, urging fellow Arkansans to sign up.

So far, 85 people have joined, paying $30 per person or $50 per household.

The new leadership includes Sarah Hudson, just elected as president, and Brad Howard, the group’s public relations director and a western Arkansas native.

In June, the new Arkansas officers will meet the leadership of the national group.