by Advocate Staff, Arkansas Advocate
April 18, 2025

Arkansas formally appealed on Friday the federal government’s denial of funds to aid recovery from March 14-15 storms and tornadoes.

In a letter to President Donald Trump and FEMA Regional Administrator George Robinson, Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders asked the administration to reconsider its rejection of her requests for disaster declarations for individual assistance and public assistance.

“Arkansas communities are still recovering from this spring’s tornadoes, as the sheer magnitude of this event resulted in overwhelming amounts of debris, widespread destruction to homes and businesses, the tragic loss of three lives, and injuries to many others,” Sanders said. “To relieve the burden on these counties, cities, and towns, I am appealing FEMA’s decision to deny Arkansas’ Major Disaster Declaration request.”

Sanders originally sought the major disaster declaration on April 2; FEMA issued its denial on April 11.

Sanders’ letter notes that “without the support of a Major Disaster Declaration, Arkansas will face significant challenges in assuming full responsibility and achieving an effective recovery from this event. I
have determined that the severity and magnitude of these storms exceed the capabilities of the State and affected local governments to respond adequately. As such, supplemental Federal assistance is crucial.”

The state’s request includes Baxter, Stone, Sharp, Hempstead, Independence, Randolph, Nevada, Jackson, Clay, Woodruff, Greene, Hot Spring,  Izard and Lawrence counties.

Trump earlier this year called the Federal Emergency Management Agency “a disaster” and suggested it “might go away.” He said states could take care of disaster responses on their own and convened a group to review the agency and recommended changes.

Arkansas Advocate is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Arkansas Advocate maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Sonny Albarado for questions: info@arkansasadvocate.com.

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SUMMARY: Justin, a contestant from Arkansas, appeared on *Wheel of Fortune* and showcased his Razorback pride by calling the hogs. Originally from Van Buren and a UOVA graduate, he won $6,000, despite the wheel not favoring him. Justin’s son convinced him to audition after spotting an open call, leading to his appearance. He celebrated the experience with a watch party, expressing that the memories and family trip were more valuable than the prize money. He also expressed a desire to bring the Razorback spirit to *The Price Is Right* next, envisioning an audience call of the hogs.

One lucky Arkansan got the chance to show his smarts and state pride on Wheel of Fortune— and what better way to do that than call the Hogs!

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SUMMARY: R&M Southern Eatery, a new restaurant in downtown Conway, combines delicious Southern and Cajun cuisine. The owner, a computer programmer at Children’s Hospital, teamed up with Chef Maryanne to create unique dishes like pasta egg rolls and homemade Alfredo sauce. Everything is crafted from scratch, ensuring quality and flavor, with highlights including chicken and waffles, honey cornbread, and seasonal yams. The eatery, known for its impressive portion sizes and distinct flavors, has quickly gained popularity since opening just a few months ago. For more food adventures, tune into “Eat It Up” on THV11 Plus every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 10:30 a.m.

On this week’s Eat It Up, Hayden Balgavy visits R&M Southern Eatery in Conway, a new spot with incredible soul food that will make your mouth water.

https://www.thv11.com/article/life/food/eat-it-up/soul-food-downtown-conway-rm-southern-eatery/91-2faf66ba-f0cb-4107-9ece-f42031c6f949

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