Around the District
The best part of my job is visiting with the great people of Arkansas’ Third District. I make the most of my time back at home by meeting with local businesses, schools, medical centers, and a wide variety of other organizations to truly get a pulse on what’s on the hearts and minds of those I represent. Hearing directly from Arkansans about ways I can help solve their problems makes me do my job better in Washington.
Tour of CEI Engineering Associates
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CEI Engineering develops comprehensive land surveying, civil engineering, landscape architecture, and construction experiences throughout the nation. For example, they do a lot of work for 7 Brew, which is expanding rapidly. It was great to meet with the leadership team to hear more about what they do and ways I can support their industry at the federal level.
Tour of Scott Family Amazeum
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It was amazing to get a tour of Amazeum! Their team told me about what they’ve accomplished in their 10 years and what their plans are for expansion in the years to come. From providing programs for students to helping educators in our community, I’m grateful for all they do at Amazeum to bring learning to life for children in Arkansas.
Watch my reaction to the tour with 5 News here and here.
Speaking to Bentonville Ignite Law & Public Policy Students
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I visited with students at Bentonville Ignite about the importance of local and state government. As a former mayor, I’ve had experience in both local and federal forms of government and had a great conversation about each of my roles with these sharp students. I explained my “why” for being in public service—my grandchildren and students like these at Bentonville Ignite. I want to make sure their future is bright, and our country is stronger for the next generation.
Tour of Alma High School’s Agriculture Education Building
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Tuesday was National Agriculture Day, and I spent it with Alma FFA officers at the new Ag barn at Alma High School! The Alma Ag program not only focuses on traditional agriculture education but incorporates vocational agriculture where students are taught construction skills, land surveying, and welding. I'm impressed by what Alma educators are doing to prepare students for careers in agriculture. I have no doubt these kids have a bright future in the industry!
Speaking to Alma Area Chamber of Commerce
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I gave an update on government funding to members of the Alma Chamber. The opportunity to construct an interstate interchange like I-40 and I-49 has not happened in our lifetime in the region. The Foreign Military Sales Program’s F-35 mission in Fort Smith will put Arkansas on the map for enhancing our national security. Both projects will provide ample opportunity in Alma and the entire River Valley region. However, critical funding for these projects is held up due to Congress’ inability to pass full-year appropriations, instead, kicking the can down the road on major issues facing Arkansas and the nation. We must return to regular order and ensure projects like this get the funding they need.
Meeting with the President of the Republic of Marshall Islands
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I met with Hilda Heine, President of the Republic of Marshall Islands, and her team to discuss issues impacting the Marshallese in Arkansas’ Third District. Renewing the Compacts of Free Association was a priority of mine in Congress. I’m glad my colleagues in the Arkansas delegation and I got the legislation across the finish line last year. I’ll always do what I can to support the Marshallese community, as they’re an integral part of Northwest Arkansas.
Tour of the Market Center of the Ozarks
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Strengthening Arkansas’ food systems and the economy requires connections between farmers, food hubs, and communities. Market Center of the Ozarks knows this well. I met with their team and toured their facility to learn more about ways we can work together to improve access to local, healthy food in the region and across the state.
Tour of United Robotics
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United Robotics makes robotics used in manufacturing, developed primarily for welding purposes. It was great to hear from Aaron Wright, who was a welder before starting the business, and how he’s grown the company to about 16 full-time employees. They provide for their customers, which are mostly metalworking businesses and transportation companies. I’m proud Arkansas’ Third is home to so many hardworking people like Aaron.
Farmington Fire Department
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Thank you to Farmington Fire Chief Bill Hellard and his team for showing me around their station and updating me on their operations. As Farmington continues to grow, their fire operations continue to grow. Chief Hellard shared with me their need to expand, potentially requiring a new station. Once a volunteer station only, they now have multiple full-time firefighters. I'm so grateful for their tireless work in keeping Arkansans safe.
Meeting with Coyle Enterprises
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Coyle Enterprises is a small local business that offers construction services including custom home building, commercial construction, and site development. I met with owners Mark Beaver and Jerry Coyle about their current and recent projects, including a church, eye clinic, and daycare. Businesses like these are the heartbeat of our local economy.
Tour of Forest Product Supply Company
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I’ll be back in Washington next week for legislative business. Have a great weekend ahead, and I hope to see you around soon! Be sure to check out my website, Twitter, and Instagram pages in the meantime.
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