🌱 James H. Berry Park Under Fire + Bike Fest 2022 Announced

Happy Friday, neighbors! Let's get you all caught up on what's happening locally to start today off on an informed note.

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First, today's weather:

Mostly sunny, breezy, and nice. High: 61 Low: 30.

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Here are the top 3 stories today in Bentonville:

1. A Muslim organization has levied criticisms against plans for the James H. Berry Park in Bentonville. The Council on American-Islamic Relations, the nation's largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, condemned plans to install a Confederate statue at the center of the park. Debbie Griffin, city director of administration, clarified that the park is not a City of Bentonville project and is on private land and privately funded. (Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette)
2. The Bentonville Bike Fest has announced plans for its 2022 festival. The event will include an expanded expo, biking events, workshops, and a world record attempt by one of the world's best trials cyclists. This year's Bike Fest will take place from Jun. 17-19. (5newsonline.com)
3. Keith Bowles has been named a senior vice president and regional branch administrator for Arvest Bank's Benton County market. Bowles will manage and supervise the company's two branches in Bentonville and Bella Vista. He returns to northwest Arkansas after working for Arvest as a regional branch administrator in Oklahoma City. (talkbusiness.net)

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Today in Bentonville:

• The Mayor's Book Club At Bentonville Public Library (10:00 AM)

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From my notebook:

• The Fresh Grass Festival will return to the Momentary in Bentonville this May! Purchase your tickets online before prices increase next week. (Facebook)
• There will be delays on Coose Hollow Drive beginning Feb. 14. Benton County Road Crews will work on a drainage project in the area. Drivers can expect 15-minute delays. (Nextdoor)

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You're officially in the loop for today. I'll see you back in your inbox tomorrow morning with your next 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.