A Few Christmas Words From Your Local Legislators

Amid the hustle and bustle of the reorganization of the Arkansas State Senate and Arkansas House of Representatives this past week, I called upon the members of the Northwest Arkansas delegation for a quick written assignment.

“Give me a few Christmas words for the folks back home,” I wrote to each member in a quick email.

Their words, will not disappoint, but really charm you.

So here are some Christmas words from your local elected officials. State Senator Uvalde Lindsey, D- Fayetteville, from Senate District 4, was quick, as always, to reply:

“May this Holiday Season bring you the music of laughter and the warmth of friendship and family - Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.”

State Rep. Charlene Fite, R-Van Buren, of House District 80 that includes Prairie Grove, Lincoln and the western half of Washington County:

“During this most blessed time of the year, I’m reminded of my many blessings. One of the greatest of these is the honor and privilege of representing the wonderful people of District 80. We have a new grandchild born just a few weeks ago, and as I hold him in my arms I’m reminded again of the miracle of our Savior’s birth. I wish the joys of Christmas to all of you.”

State Rep. David Whitaker, D-Fayetteville, of House District 85, including both Fayetteville and Farmington:

“As Lisa and I celebrate the joys of Christmas with our family, we’d like to extend our warmest wishes to our neighbors for a season filled with love, happiness and plenty. Also, please take the opportunity to reach out to those who are not as fortunate. If you can’t afford to contribute to charity, you can always offer a smile, a friendly greeting or just a helping hand to those you encounter as you make your way through the day. Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year!”

State Rep. Charlie Collins, R- Fayetteville, of House District 84, which includes parts of Fayetteville and eastern Washington County:

“As we prepare for another Christmas and the start of 2017, I am so thankful the Lord sent His son to bring grace and mercy to me and to you. This special season reminds us of our blessings and the reasons we have to be grateful.”

“At the same time, we can reflect on the successes and failures of 2016 as we prepare for the exciting opportunities ahead in 2017. Merry Christmas to all and may God continue to bless Arkansas!”

State Rep. Greg Leding, D-Fayetteville from District 86, in Fayetteville:

“I wish for people to not give up on their government; to engage in the process (if they’re not already), and to stay engaged, because the only way we get government of the people, by the people, and for the people is for people to participate. And it can be difficult, especially for those who find themselves in the minority — but those are the people who have to roar the loudest.”

From newly elected state Rep. Jeff Williams, R-Springdale, from District 89, a portion of Springdale. Williams will take the oath of office Jan. 9:

“Wishing the people of the 89th District, Springdale, Washington County, and the State of Arkansas a Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year. May your holidays be filled with joy, love, and happiness.”

State Rep. Robin Lundstrum, R- Springdale, of House District 87, includes portions of western Springdale, rural Washington and Benton County and the City of Siloam Springs:

“May each of us slow-down during this hectic time and learn to savor this unique time and season. God’s greatest gift of his son, was sent to us on this earth. Amid the solemnness of this season comes the annual reuniting of friends and family, this is an indeed precious bonus each year. I want to thank the people of House District 87 for their support of me and a program of good government for all the citizens of Arkansas.

“From the Lundstrum household, Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year.”

And there you have “Christmas words,” from your legislators.