Mayor

Dear Bentonites,

Well, July has come and gone with a lasting impression. The City of Benton hosted the longest fireworks show in the state, in front of over 9,500 citizens from around the state. We have had people say that it was truly a fantastic show and one of the longest I have ever seen. We can thank Tommy Danniels for that, as he is the one who puts the show together and shoots the fireworks off each July 3. The entire show lasted over 21 minutes, whereas the average show is around 15, and we need to thank The Benton Area Chamber of Commerce, Gateway Bank, Pretties and Grace, P Clark and Associates, and Merchants and Farmers Bank, who made the firework show happen this year.

Then just two weeks later, we had “Ice Ice Baby “Third Thursday, which featured the punk rock band “Done for the Weekend,” which was truly outstanding. We want to thank Retro Rose Records for sponsoring the contest and selecting the feature band for our Third Thursday Festival. Our numbers ran over 3900 for a very hot summer night. We had over 13 food vendors to meet the taste buds of everyone, as well as streets full of vendors and old vehicles. A truly fantastic event for our city.

Of course, every Saturday from 7 AM to 1 PM was our fantastic Farmer’s Market. They always supply us with fresh fruits and vegetables as well as many other sources of great food and snacks. Our Farmer’s Market has truly grown over the years and is a large part of every Saturday in Downtown Benton.

I know August is here, and this year in Benton, August will be packed with many fantastic opportunities for families to enjoy.

August 2 Back To School Picnic in the Ralph Bunche Community 9 AM to 1 PM & Habitat Murder Mystery Dinner at the Enclave

August 8/9 Amplify behind Holland Chapel Church

August 11/12 Committee Meetings

August 21 Third Thursday

August 25 City Council Meeting

August 26 Pep Rally at the Everett Infinite Lot

August 27 Salt Bowl Press Conference at CTE

August 28 Benton Vs Bryant Volleyball at Bryant

August 29 Salt Bowl at Benton

Have a great Month!

Mayor Tom

FEEL FREE TO REACH OUT TO MYSELF OR MY ASSISTANT. TOM.FARMER@BENTONAR.ORG, TOBY.HIRSCHEIDER@BENTONAR.ORG