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

Casinos may be headed to Arkansas. Arkansas Attorney General Dustin McDaniel has approved a proposed consitutional amendment to allow casinos to be built in seven Arkansas Counties, clearing the way for supporters to begin gathering signatures. 

The amendment would allow for casinos in Boone, Crittenden, Garland, Jefferson, Miller , Pulaski and Sebastian Counties.

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Its the 36th Annual Great American Smokeout today promoted by the American Cancer Society. President Barack Obama who recently was pronounced tobacco free has taped a video message encouraging smokers to quit and chiding cigarette  manufacturers for opposing new graphic warning labels on packs of cigarettes.

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In Economic News today: U.S. builders started fewer homes in October but submitted plans for a wave of apartments, a mixed sign for the struggling housing market.

Meanwhile  the number of people applying for unemployment benefits fell last week to the lowest level since early April, a sign that layoffs are easing and hiring may pick up.

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In Sports:

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

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