Crews respond to fire in Benton shopping center

VIDEO: Crews in Benton fought an early morning fire that led to damage at three businesses on Military Road. Officials with the Benton Fire Department said the crews responded to the blaze that started at Young’s Jewelers around 5:25 a.m. after getting reports of smoke and visible flames coming from the building. Firefighters were able to contain the fire to the store, though two other businesses, Bodiddle’s Wine & Spirits and Bodiddle’s Barber and Salon, suffered water and smoke damage. Owner Carl West said that the jewelry store received the most damage, while the barber shop and liquor store were affected by the smoke. He added that all three are a total loss, but said he’s happy his employees are ok.
KLRT-TV FOX 16 Little Rock

City of Monette starting construction on new volunteer firefighter building

A one-percent sales tax increase means the city of Monette can protect its citizens better. The city will soon begin construction on a new building for its volunteer fire department. Mayor Bob Blankenship said it’s been his vision to upgrade the city several years ago. “It will be a building 90 foot in depth, 125 foot long,” said Blankenship. “It will have 5 drive-through bases, and the facilities will have all the modern facilities.” A bond issue was established, and three ideas for the building were proposed. The new firehouse will be located at 311 E. Drew St. Blankenship said the economy in Monette is growing, and this is one of the reasons why new improvements are being made. He believes that the new volunteer firehouse will meet every requirement and provide everything the men and women who serve need.
KAIT-TV ABC/NBC/CW+ 8 Jonesboro