Update From Chief Flanagan 4/26/2026

Good afternoon,

Last week was more talking than action, but great conversations were had, some by phone, some online and some in person.

When it came to the leg work, Chief Kersh and myself were able to attend the Coffee and Conversations event in Ft. Smith at the Marshall’s Museum. There we were able to meet and speak with Representative Zack E. Gramlich and Senator Justin Boyd.

We were able to convey our concerns about Millcreek Mountain as well as express the Tribe’s intentions of working with the State government and officials rather than against them in the future. We didn’t see eye to eye on every point that was discussed, but I am more interested in common ground than differences.

Other individuals of note at this event were candidate for Mayor of Ft.Smith for the Libertarian party, Shayne McKinney as well as Democratic candidate for State Senate district 27 Eduardo Guzman. I enjoyed listening in on the conversation between all parties specifically in regards to public education and the “Learns Act”. It was good to see bi-partisan interaction that was structured more like a conversation than a debate.

In terms of local news, I would like to remind everyone that we are just two weeks away from the year’s first farmer’s market in Franklin county. Growing A Healthy Charleston is gearing up for a great growing season with fresh produce, new vendors and the kind of down home, small town fellowship that we all appreciate in this part of the world.

Come see us at the Franklin County Courthouse lawn in Charleston on Saturday May 9th from 8-noon!

Thank you.

Justin Flanagan
Western Region Medal Chief
The Chickamauga Nation