News from the South - Arkansas News Feed
Governor’s aide appointed to University of Arkansas Board of Trustees
Governor’s aide appointed to University of Arkansas Board of Trustees
by Antoinette Grajeda, Arkansas Advocate
March 13, 2025
Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders appointed her deputy chief of staff to the University of Arkansas Board of Trustees Wednesday, her second appointment to the board in less than a week.
Judd Deere, who will retain his current position in the governor’s office while serving on the board, is replacing Sheffield Nelson. His term will expire March 1, 2035.
Deere, a Benton native and Lyon College graduate, has more than a decade of government management and communications experience, including a stint as a White House aide to President Donald Trump during his first term, according to a press release.
“I am deeply honored by and grateful to Governor Sanders for her confidence in me to serve on the University of Arkansas Board of Trustees,” Deere said. “I was raised to love our state and want nothing more than to see the University of Arkansas System succeed in preparing the next generation for the workforce—be it a four-year degree or certificate at a community college— because when it does, so does our state.”
Sanders also announced last Friday that she was appointing Randy Lawson to the UA Board of Trustees. Lawson is filling the seat formerly held by Tommy Boyer, who died last month. His term will expire on March 1, 2027.
Lawson is a UA graduate and businessman engaged in energy development, real estate development and venture capital investment businesses, according to a press release. Lawson serves as a commissioner on the Arkansas Oil and Gas Commission following his appointment by Sanders in 2023.
“I have been a Razorback my entire life and look forward to continuing to support my university,” Lawson said. “I am also looking forward to working with the current Board of Trustees and the entire leadership team at the U of A system to further the mission and strive for excellence in everything.”
The trustees of the University of Arkansas System are appointed by the governor to 10-year overlapping terms, and the board sets policies for the system’s universities, colleges and institutes.
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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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News from the South - Arkansas News Feed
NW Arkansas Championship expected to bring money to Rogers
SUMMARY: The Northwest Arkansas Championship in Rogers is more than a golf event; it significantly boosts the local economy. Drawing thousands annually, it brings steady crowds benefiting restaurants, shops, and service providers. Businesses report increased sales, especially in food and hydration products, with parking lots near the course filling quickly. The Rogers Chamber estimates the tournament injects around $14 million into the local economy, supporting small businesses. Starting tomorrow with a 5K event at the LPGA, this week-long tournament is a dependable source of customer traffic and highlights Rogers’ growth as a regional hub.
Rogers businesses make money off the LPGA’s NW Arkansas Championship.
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News from the South - Arkansas News Feed
Arkansas medical marijuana sales on pace for record year
SUMMARY: Arkansas medical marijuana sales are on track for a record year, with patients spending over $193 million from January to August 2025—more than $10 million higher than last year. The state currently has 109,000 active patient cards, purchasing over 52,000 pounds of cannabis products. Daily sales average around $800,000, generating more than $21 million in taxes this year. A new law directs part of this tax revenue to combat food insecurity, including eliminating school lunch debt statewide. Since 2019, Arkansas patients have spent over $1.5 billion on medical marijuana, with the state collecting more than $105 million in taxes.
Arkansas medical marijuana sales on pace for record year 40/29 is your home for Northwest Arkansas and the River Valley …
News from the South - Arkansas News Feed
Group in lawsuit say Franklin county prison land was bought before it was inspected
SUMMARY: A group filed a complaint against the Franklin County Prison project, claiming the land was purchased before proper inspection, resulting in unsuitable property acquisition and wasted taxpayer money. A study cited by State Senator Brian King revealed the site cannot supply adequate water for even one home, let alone a 3,000-bed prison. Despite ongoing prison overcrowding and the need for a new facility, concerns remain about the project’s viability. Lawmakers discussed the issue, highlighting overcrowding and early release of violent offenders due to lack of space. The Franklin County Prison project aims to build a 3,000-bed facility, but its future is uncertain amid these challenges.
Group in lawsuit say Franklin county prison land was bought before it was inspected
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