National Park College (NPC) Student Government Association and Garland County Farm
Bureau (GCFB) hosted a State and Local Candidate Forum Monday. Neal Gladner, KZNG
morning host and director of sales and marketing for US Stations moderated the event.
SGA President, Harris Felton, pictured, welcomed the crowd. “This event is important
for several reasons. First of all, it is important for you, as the voter, because
your well informed vote counts. It is also important for you, as the candidate, because
the people need to meet you and know who they are voting for,” he said.
GCFB Vice President and legislative chairman, Ralph Pinkerton expressed his appreciation
for the partnership with NPC. He said, “We are proud to be a partner with National
Park College.” He added, “This is one of the best events we have hosted and I heard
comments from many of the candidates that they enjoyed it. The college provided an
excellent setting for this event and the attendance was great.”
Nearly 40 candidates and 200 guests attended the open community forum which was held
in the Student Commons conference room at National Park College. The event began with
a meet and greet for all candidates at 6 p.m. followed by speeches from candidates
for contested non-partisan judicial races, and Arkansas State House and Senate races.
The Garland County Farm Bureau Women’s Committee provided refreshments.
The College will partner with the GCFB in the fall to host a follow-up debate preceding
the November general election. A debate panel will be formed that consists of students,
faculty and community members. SGA students will survey the campus and community to
gather feedback and develop questions for candidates.
