J.W.’s News Update: Thursday, November 17, 2011

Casinos may be headed to Arkansas. The Arkansas Attorney General Dustin McDaniel has approved  the wording of a proposed consitutional amendment to allow casinos to be built in seven counties.

The amendment would allow casinos in : Boone, Crittenden, Garland, Jefferson, Miller, Pulaski, and Sebastion counties.

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Today is the 36th Annual Great American Smokeout promoted by the American Cancer Society. President Barack Obama has taped a video encouraging smokers to quit and chiding cigarette makers to stop opposing graphic new warning labels for packs of cigarettes.

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In Economic news:

The U.S. Builders started slightly fewer homes in October but submitted plans for a wave of apartments, a mixed sign for the struggling housing market.

Meanwhile the Labor Department says the number of people applying for unemployment benefits fell last week to the lowest level sicne early April, a sign that layoffs are easing and hiring may be picking up.

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In Sports:

The Arkansas High Razorbacks are preparing for the long trip to Jonesboro in the 2nd round of the Class 6A State Football Playoffs in Arkansas. The Winner will likely face El Dorado in the state semi-final next week.

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