🌱 James H. Berry Park Approved + Broadband Town Halls Scheduled

Good morning, Bentonville! Let's get you started this Thursday with everything you need to know going on around town today.

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First, today's weather:

Snow at times, 1-3". High: 21 Low: 14.

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Here are the top 3 stories today in Bentonville:

1. The Bentonville Planning Commission approved the large-scale development of James H. Berry Park in a unanimous vote on Tuesday. The centerpiece of the new park will be a Confederate statue that was removed from the downtown square in 2020. The design phase of planning for the park is nearing completion and construction is expected to begin following a groundbreaking ceremony in March. (Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette)
2. Benton County officials announced plans to host two town halls about broadband availability this month. The two sessions will be held on Feb. 7 and Feb. 16 at 6:00 p.m. and will attempt to create a better understanding of the needs for improved broadband across Benton County. The Arkansas Legislative Council is also asking every resident to complete an online survey about their internet usage. (Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette)
3. Benton County Road Department crews began treating roads for forecasted winter weather on Wednesday morning. Barry Moehring, a Benton County Judge, ensured residents that the county is taking the upcoming snowstorm "incredibly seriously." In addition to treating roadways, the Benton County Sheriff's Office has also added new durable tires to emergency vehicles to improve emergency response times and safety during the storm. (4029tv)

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Today in Bentonville:

• Farmers Market Pickup At Bentonville Square (4:00 PM)

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From my notebook:

• With the ongoing winter storm, if you have any Bentonville Electric power outages or water leaks, report via the after-hours/emergency line for utilities at 800-286-1262. (Facebook)
• There are just two weeks left until the 2022 Run Bentonville Race Series begins! The Valentine's 4K/8K is Feb. 12 at 7:30 a.m. Thank you to all the Race Series sponsors. (Facebook)
• Northwest Arkansas Fashion Week will take place March 10-12 at The Momentary! The show will include local and national designers and will be headlined by NYC-based designer Rinat Bordach. (Facebook)

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You're all caught up for today. See you all tomorrow morning for another update!

— Sean Peek

About me: Sean Peek is a writer and entrepreneur with a degree in English Literature from Weber State University. Over the years, he has worked as a copywriter, editor, SEO specialist, and marketing director for various digital media companies. He currently co-owns and operates content creation agency Lightning Media Partners.