SUMMARY: Cherokee Nation CEO Chuck Garrett spoke in Russellville, highlighting concerns over Issue Two, which could prevent Pope County from obtaining a casino license. County Judge Ben Cross emphasized the economic benefits, including jobs and tax revenue from the proposed casino and its associated businesses. In contrast, H. Sturz, representing Local Voters in Charge, advocates for the amendment, arguing it reflects the 2018 election’s outcome that established four casino licenses in Arkansas. While three counties voted in favor, Pope County opposed the measure with 61%, indicating a community sentiment against the casino initiative.

The debate over Issue 2 is heating up in Pope County as officials on both sides are trying to sway voters before Election Day.

►Subscribe: https://youtube.com/thv11
►Website: https://www.thv11.com/
►Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thv11/
►Twitter: https://twitter.com/thv11

THV11 is the local CBS affiliate for Little Rock, Arkansas. We cover news and more, reporting with strong journalism to help deliver the news to the people of Arkansas.

Source

SUMMARY: America’s top diplomat, Secretary of State Antony Blinken, is in the Middle East seeking to halt the escalating conflict. Despite his efforts, the Israel Defense Forces continue their air campaign against Iranian-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon, while in Northern Gaza, Palestinians flee from intensified Israeli attacks aimed at stopping Hamas. Blinken emphasizes the importance of securing hostage releases and achieving a lasting end to the war. He urges Israeli leaders to leverage their recent military successes, including the killing of Hamas leader Yaya Senior, to establish a durable ceasefire and create a sustainable peace strategy.

Following the death of top Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, the US is looking to renew cease-fire efforts between Israel and Hamas. (Via: CBS)

Source

SUMMARY: Faith Woodard and Roy Hoy report on a recent T31 11 survey indicating that crime is a top concern for residents. Pulaski County Prosecutor Will Jones revealed a nearly 50% reduction in homicides over the past two years, attributing this success to improved collaborations with local police, firsthand involvement at crime scenes, and the establishment of a crime intelligence unit. While homicide rates have dropped 44% compared to 2022, over 200 homicide cases remain pending. Jones and the Little Rock Police Department emphasize the importance of swift justice and community policing initiatives to maintain safety and continue reducing crime.

Homicides in Pulaski County have decreased by 44% over the past two years. The county’s prosecuting attorney highlights several factors behind this trend.

https://www.thv11.com/article/news/crime/pulaski-county-reports-drop-in-homicides/91-f3d3b59c-00e2-4ff5-874a-59a44372c00c

Source