December 2022

Making a Difference for Veterans

As a son of a Master Sergeant in the Air Force who served for 23 years, I understand the unique challenges veterans and their families experience and how Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits, programs and care are critical for men and women called to serve in our nation’s uniform. This is what drove me to serve on the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee and work with Arkansas veterans and Veterans Service Organizations in our state and nationwide to improve services and benefits veterans earned. Through our collaborative efforts, we’ve made positive reforms and updates to VA care and benefits.

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Rebels take third in Bad Boy Mowers Ronnie Brogdon Invitational

The Highland Rebels earned a big win on Dec. 26, 2022, as they beat the Melbourne Bearkatz for the third time this season in the Bad Boy Mowers Ronnie Brogdon Invitational. The final score was 66-41. Dylan Munroe led all scorers with 22 points and was named the FNBC Player of the Game. Noah Powell added 14 and Sean Parkerson added 12. Arnhart, Burris, Jones, and Nelson contributed 8, 5, 3, and 2 respectively.

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Strawberry River Chapter: Wreaths Across America Project

Wreaths Across America (WAA) honors the memory of the men and women who sacrificed for their country. Each Dec. 17 is National Wreaths Across America Day; the mission to remember, honor and teach is carried out by coordinating wreath-laying ceremonies at Arlington National Cemetery, as well as at more than 3,400 additional locations in all 50 U.S. states, at sea and abroad.

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From the Mayor:

Thanks to everyone who entered the Christmas lighting contest sponsored by the Village Pride Committee and the Mayor. The displays were fantastic and reflected lots of work by their owners. Cash prizes were awarded for three places in each ward plus citywide businesses. The prize amounts were $100 for first, $75 for second and $50 for third. These lights in addition to the display at Town Center added to our celebration of the season in the city.

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Capitol Week in Review

When the 2023 regular session convenes on January 9, there will be 13 new members in the Arkansas Senate. The legislature is a citizen legislature, and the senators’ occupations reflect the Arkansas economy.

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Letter to the Editor

The holiday season can be very stressful; whether it is trying to find the perfect gifts, family drama, or financial stress, there is a good chance everyone will at least have one moment of stress during the holidays. Unfortunately, this stress also affects those struggling with drugs and alcohol.

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FINANCIAL FOCUS

It’s that time of year when many of us promise ourselves we’ll go to the gym more, or learn a new language, or take up a musical instrument, or any number of other worthy goals. But this year, when making New Year’s resolutions, why not also consider some financial ones? Here are a few to consider: • Don’t let inflation derail your investment strategy.

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Cherokee Village seeks applicants to fill vacant council seat

There is currently an empty seat on Cherokee Village City Council recently vacated by council member Chuck Kristopeit. Registered voters living in Ward 1 of Cherokee Village who are interested in filling the open seat must submit a petition of 10 signatures of registered voters from Ward 1 to city hall by 4 p.m., Jan. 11, 2023. A petition and other needed information are available at city hall. For more information, call 870-257-5522.

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