Staff Report

There are new AARP Smart Driver courses being offered. These classes are designed for drivers over the age of 50 to assist them in becoming safer drivers. Completion of the course may qualify participants to receive an automobile insurance discount in Arkansas.

The course teaches current traffic laws, defensive driving techniques and how to operate a vehicle more safely in today's challenging driving environment. The course also teaches how to manage common age-related changes in vision, hearing and reaction time.

The course length is four hours. The cost is $15 for AARP members and $20 for nonmembers. AARP members should provide their membership card and membership number when making reservations by calling 479-855-3076.

Classes offered in Bella Vista are:

• Friday, Sept. 28, 8:30 a.m. -- Village Insurance, 2860 Bella Vista Way;

• Tuesday, Oct. 9, 8:30 a.m. -- Village Insurance, 2860 Bella Vista Way;

• Thursday, Oct. 18, 9 a.m. -- Village Bible EFC, 1591 Forest Hills Blvd.;

• Friday, Oct. 26, 8:30 a.m. -- Village Insurance, 2860 Bella Vista Way.