July 7, 2023

Around the District 

There’s no place like home! I take full advantage of reconnecting with the very people who put their trust in me to be their elected representative. District work periods allow me to hear what my fellow Arkansans are working on so I can be a strong voice for them when I return to Washington.

Read more below about some of my recent stops around our great community!

Midland Industrial Services

I took a tour of Midland Industrial Services to see how they build and design anything an industrial facility may need from the ground up. They’ve doubled in size over the last couple years, growing close to nearly 400 employees. They work on a wide array of projects, including those related to electrics, mechanics, and engineering. We discussed supply chain issues and their great reputation in the industry because of their ability to work effectively and efficiently, which saves customers money. Their work drives the American economy and supports our producers. I’m proud to have the hardworking people of Midland Industrial Services here in Arkansas’ Third. A KNWA segment on my visit here.

Mayor of Elkins

As a former mayor, it always brings me joy to meet with mayors around the district to catch up on projects that will make direct impacts on our community and the day-to-day lives of our neighbors. I visited with the new mayor of Elkins, Troy Reed, to hear about what he’s been working on since taking office, including community baseball fields and expansive infrastructure developments. Dedicated leaders like Troy are critical for Arkansans.

Justus Cabinets

Family-owned and operated since 1985. Companies like Justus Cabinets are special to AR-3 and prove that our home is a place rich with economic opportunity. It was great to see the high-quality cabinets they build for private homeowners and contractors across Northwest Arkansas.

Glidewell Distributing

Glidewell Distributing is family-owned and operated, much like Justus Cabinets, and has been around for four generations of the Glidewell family. It all started in a garage in 1946. Now, they are a topnotch convenience store supplier, with a mission of helping sellers increase profits and supply stores across the region. It was fascinating to hear about the history of their business and the incredible work they do for our local economy. I didn’t pass up the chance to tell them about challenge coins and the importance of exceeding expectations in life – something the Glidewell employees know well.

Ronald McDonald House

The Ronald McDonald House in Fort Smith is a true blessing for the community. Folks volunteer to provide a home away from home for families of critically ill children under 21 receiving treatment at Mercy Fort Smith and will accept any guest regardless of residence or financial status. It’s remarkable to see how our community comes together to support each other through the challenging obstacles life brings.

Fort Smith Noon Exchange Club

While I was in Fort Smith, I spoke at the Fort Smith’s Noon Exchange Club where I gave my take on what’s been happening in DC. I shared how it’s important for Congress to focus on things that move the needle on kitchen table issues facing Arkansans, like record-high inflation, unsustainable debt, and reckless spending, rather than get distracted by the noise of politics. I then pivoted to the exciting things happening in Fort Smith, like the opening of the U.S. Marshals Museum, which had 700 guests on the first day and is averaging 400 a day currently. I also couldn’t miss giving an update on the FMS manned flying mission at Ebbing, which will bring the sound of freedom back to the River Valley. This mission is a multi-million-dollar boom for the regional economy and makes Arkansas’ Third home to key national security developments. I appreciate the club inviting me to speak at their weekly meeting!

AR-3 in DC!

The Smithsonian Folklife Festival on the National Mall this week showcased the work of many impressive people from Arkansas’ Third and displayed the creative fabric of the region. Since I was back in Arkansas this week, I was unable to attend, but some of my DC staff enjoyed visiting the unique programing. The festival featured Marshallese jewelry and a canoe, Ozark Beer Company, musicians, and more! Arkansas’ footprint is spreading far and wide, and it was great to see the community’s culture highlighted in our nation’s capital.

July Mobile Office Hours

I will be back in D.C. next week for legislative business, but I wish you a great weekend ahead! Be sure to check out my website, Twitter, and Instagram pages in the meantime.

From the front...

Congressman Steve Womack
Arkansas Third District