Note to subscribers: An annual or monthly subscription is billed to your debit or credit card as ARKANSAS.SUBSTACK.COM and if you have questions, please email arkansas@substack.com. Thanks for reading and subscribing!

The Headlines

• MEETINGS: The North Little Rock School Board will have a retreat starting at 9 a.m. on Friday and is expected to end by 2 p.m. The meeting will be at the district’s administration building and will be livestreamed on the district’s YouTube page. The meeting is open to the public. The Maumelle City Council will meet next Monday night at City Hall. That meeting will also be livestreamed on the city’s YouTube page and the public is also invited.

• EVENTS: This Sunday, June 14, is Flag Day and prepare yourself accordingly. On Saturday, June 13, the North Little Rock chapter of the NAACP will be having a Juneteenth Tea and Fashion Show at Shorter College. It will start at 3 p.m. and for more details, check out the flyer below. And because reverse chronological order is always the best way to order events, this Friday, June 12, there’s an informational session called “North Little Rock Engineering for Streets to Streams: A Watershed Fair.” It will be held at the UofA Extension Service offices at 2301 S. University Ave, in Little Rock and next door to the Jack Stephens Center at UALR as they share a parking lot. For more, check out the second flyer below. Finally, today. North Little Rock will host a beam signing for the Tempo Hotel downtown at 2 p.m. The event will be held at the city’s Event Center at 120 Main St.

  

  

  A call for a taste tester

  Hey! Do you want to be a reporter? No, of course you don’t. The pay is terrible and the hours are worse but maybe you’d like a reporting assignment, maybe?!? Anyway, looking for someone to do some reporting about the Swig location in Conway and need someone with a love of sugary drinks to order some up, drink them and report back on how they taste. No, for real. Get paid to drink sodas! Maybe reporting isn’t so bad after all, but if you’re interested, please reply back to this email or you can email jeremyarkansasnews@gmail.com. We’ll pay you for your time and reimburse you, up to $25?, for the cost of the drinks. That amount might be a little less, or a little more as we don’t really have any idea what drinks at Swig cost. We figure $5-ish but in this economy, it is probably more like $8. You might be asking yourself, why doesn’t he do this one himself? And, fair question, the honest answer is I haven’t had a sugary soda in well over a decade, maybe two, and don’t want to go back. There’s also some other details but that can be worked out over email. Just holler and we’ll get this going.

Subscribe if you like, pay if you can

Little Rock baseball season comes to an end in Super Regional

Troy, the bad Trojans, turned out to be the good ones after and swept Little Rock in the Super Regional round of the college baseball post season.

Essentially, the Sweet 16 of baseball, the Super Regional had Troy coming away with a two-game sweep to advance to this week’s College World Series in Omaha, Neb.

Maumelle’s Tag Andrews, pictured above, came on in relief of Game 2 on Saturday and pitched one and ⅓ innings, giving up three hits and two earned runs, before being pulled for another pitcher. All and all, Little Rock had five pitchers who saw action in the loss.

It was no decision for Andrews, as starter Nic Bronzini took the loss.

This season’s Little Rock team cemented its place as the most accomplished team in school history as they finished 39-27, setting a program record for victories. They also became the first Little Rock team to win a Regional series, when they won at Hattiesburg, Miss., two weeks ago and the first team in school history to advance to the Super Regional round.

“Could not be prouder of our program, “ Little Rock head coach Chris Curry said. “I sat up here a year ago and said that we were not a fluke or a one-year wonder in a regional and that we would be back. Not only were we back, but we won a regional championship, set a program record for wins and had all kinds of accomplishments. I couldn’t be prouder of these guys and how they took this program and showed that Little Rock baseball is here to stay.”

Troy is now 38-30 on the year and will face West Virginia this Friday, Both teams are playing in their first College World Series.

Curry reminded his team afterward not to let the sting of defeat overshadow what they accomplished.

“I told them it hurts right now, but don’t you dare hold your head down, “ Curry said. “Stick your chest out and be proud of what you did. You’ll tell your grandkids about it. Thank you for being the best team that’s ever played at Little Rock. Thank you for allowing me to coach you.”

The veteran coach believes the experience of reaching a Super Regional will only strengthen the foundation that has been built over the last two seasons.

“It makes it an expectation, “ Curry said. “We know exactly how to get here. We’ve shown that in back-to-back years. We didn’t just get hot. We understand postseason play. We have examples now for our returning players and examples for players that aren’t here yet. Little Rock baseball belongs on this stage.”

“We’ll be back, “ Curry said. “And we’ll be playing longer next year.”

(Little Rock sports information director Nate Olson contributed to this report)

Subscribe now

New fire station opens in North Little Rock

On Tuesday, the city of North Little Rock opened its new Central Fire Station on Main Street.

The new station will be home to Station One’s emergency response unit as well as the North Little Rock Fire Department’s administrative offices. The 24, 500-square-foot station was paid for with the half-cent sales tax approved by North Little Rock voters in 2022 to fund public safety, public works, and parks. The building will include: a turnout storage room, five bays, an indoor mechanics’ shop, 14 bedrooms, 10 restrooms, covered parking for reserve apparatus and special operations trailers, a dedicated gym, and a hot/warm/cold zone to keep carcinogens out of the living area. The building was designed by Jackson, Brown, Palculict Architects, and Alessi Keyes Construction built the building.

Pictured is North Little Rock Mayor Terry Hartwick who was among the elected officials on hand for the event.

Hudson joins Arkansas Farm Bureau

Allan Hudson, a 25-year health insurance professional, has joined Arkansas Farm Bureau as director of health plans.

Hudson, above, will coordinate statewide health plan training, sales planning and health plan marketing initiatives. Additionally, Hudson will assist Farm Bureau agents in serving the healthcare coverage needs of Farm Bureau members and communities in all 75 counties.

Hudson is also an ordained minister and serves as lead pastor of Grace Church North Little Rock. It’s a congregation he and his wife, Lisa, planted eight years ago. His passion for ministry and community service allows him to impact lives both inside and outside the church.

Hudson has a long history of leadership and service. He is a past state president of National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors - Arkansas and continues to serve on its state board of directors. Hudson has contributed to his community on local school boards, chambers of commerce and Boys & Girls Club.

Share Arkansas Newsroom

Education news

UCA names May 2026 graduates

The University of Central Arkansas held May commencement ceremonies Thursday and Friday, April 30 and May 1, in the Farris Center on campus, conferring approximately 1,200 undergraduate and graduate degrees and certificates from the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences; College of Business; College of Education; College of Health and Behavioral Sciences; College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics; and the Graduate School.

North of the River graduates included:

• James Joyner of Maumelle, who received a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science.

• Jewell Callahan of Maumelle, who received a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science.

• Maggie Green of Maumelle, who received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in Nursing.

• Reilly McCann of Maumelle, who received a Bachelor of Arts in Art.

• Anna Carroll of Maumelle, who received a Bachelor of Science in Biology.

• Karter Pawelczak of Maumelle, who received a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting.

• Malingo Matute of Maumelle, who received a Bachelor of Science in Economics.

• Landon Smith of Maumelle, who received a Bachelor of Science in Information Systems.Ina Resimont of Maumelle, who received a Master of Science in Athletic Training.

• Ryan Brekeen of Maumelle, who received a Bachelor of Science in Psychology.

• Neela Vint of Maumelle, who received a Bachelor of Science in Family and Consumer Science.

• William Musick of Maumelle, who received a Bachelor of Business Administration in Management.

• Corban Turner of Maumelle, who received a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science.

• Ethan Cash of Maumelle, who received a Master of Business Administration in Business Administration.

• Samantha Phillips of Maumelle, who received a Master of Science in School Counseling.

• Lindsey Stanchak of Maumelle, who received a Graduate Certificate in ESL (GC).

• Robert Swofford of Maumelle, who received a Master of Arts in Sport Management.

• Marsha Norwood of North Little Rock, who received a Master of Science in School Counseling.

• Tamara Bryant of North Little Rock, who received a Bachelor of Science in Psychology.

• Teylen Patterson of North Little Rock, who received a Master of Arts in Sport Management.

• Taylor Bentley of Sherwood, who received a Master of Science in Athletic Training.

• Vincent Climer of North Little Rock, who received a Master of Science in Computer Science (GR).

• Kami Curtis of North Little Rock, who received a Master of Music in Music.

• Ellie Eskola of North Little Rock, who received a Master of Science in School Leadership Management & Administration.

• Tate Hill of North Little Rock, who received a Master of Science in Biology.

• Grayson Meckfessel of Sherwood, who received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in Nursing.

• Macy Colclasure of North Little Rock, who received a Master of Science in Education in Special Education.

• Ashton Whittington of North Little Rock, who received a Bachelor of Business Administration in Management.

• Justin Arendt of Sherwood, who received a Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing.

• Joshua Barham of North Little Rock, who received a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing.

• Taylor Bornds of North Little Rock, who received a Bachelor of Science in Psychology.

• Summer Charles of Sherwood, who received a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science.

• Collin Joseph of North Little Rock, who received a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science.

• Grayce Nelson of North Little Rock, who received a Bachelor of Science in Dietetics.

• Jenifer Roblero-Perez of North Little Rock, who received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in Nursing.

• Bevan Sober of North Little Rock, who received a Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences & Disorders.

• Julian Strain of North Little Rock, who received a Bachelor of Arts in Writing/Rhetoric/Information Design.

• Katlyn Turner of Sherwood, who received a Bachelor of Science in Biology.

• Khia White of Sherwood, who received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in Nursing.

• Piper Chun of North Little Rock, who received a Bachelor of Science in Biology.

• Jamie Jewell of North Little Rock, who received a Bachelor of Science in Communication.

• Skylar Nelsen of North Little Rock, who received a Bachelor of Arts in Film.

• Hailey Richardson of North Little Rock, who received a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science.

• Gabrielle Stokes of North Little Rock, who received a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry.

• Emily Winters of North Little Rock, who received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in Nursing.

• Rachel Bosah of North Little Rock, who received a Bachelor of Science in Family and Consumer Science.

• Christopher Walker of North Little Rock, who received a Master of Arts in Teaching in Teaching.

• Preston Adams of Sherwood, who received a Master of Arts in Sport Management.

• Mary Coleman of Sherwood, who received a Certificate of Proficiency in Financial Literacy (CP).

• Ashlynn Dring of Sherwood, who received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in Nursing.

• Kylie Higgins of Sherwood, who received a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science.

• Faith Henderson of North Little Rock, who received a Bachelor of Business Administration in General Business.

• Trent Eskola of North Little Rock, who received a Master of Arts in Sport Management.

• Eleanor Blakely of Sherwood, who received a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science.

• Cydney Davis of North Little Rock, who received a Bachelor of Arts in Film.

• Lovemeet Singh of Sherwood, who received a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences.

• Joshua Haley of North Little Rock, who received a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science.

• David Hussey of North Little Rock, who received a Bachelor of Science in Health Promotion.

• Caleb Young of Sherwood, who received a Bachelor of Science in Engineering Physics.

• Jackson Houser of North Little Rock, who received a Bachelor of Science in Biology.

• Kyla Burnett of Sherwood, who received a Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations.

• Rylee Ellis of Sherwood, who received a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing.

• Hana Khatib of North Little Rock, who received a Graduate Certificate in ESL (GC).

• Jonathan Wetherington of North Little Rock, who received a Bachelor of Science in Addiction Studies.

• Sophia Brown of Sherwood, who received a Bachelor of Science in Family and Consumer Science.

• Sophia Wells of North Little Rock, who received a Bachelor of Business Administration in General Business.

• Gerardo Almazan of Sherwood, who received a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting.

• Elizabeth Hankins of Sherwood, who received a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science.

• Nathan Anders of Sherwood, who received a Bachelor of Business Administration in Management.

• Abigale Blakey of Sherwood, who received a Bachelor of Science in Psychology.

• Jacobi Briggs of Sherwood, who received a Bachelor of Science in Criminology.

• Corbin Cooke of North Little Rock, who received a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance.

• Savanna Escovedo of Sherwood, who received a Bachelor of Science in Criminology.

• Ja’Quan Hervey of North Little Rock, who received a Bachelor of Science in Sociology.

• Lawana Martin of North Little Rock, who received a Bachelor of Science in Family and Consumer Science.

• Trevor Whittaker of Sherwood, who received a Bachelor of General Studies in General Studies.

• Renee Austin-Banks of North Little Rock, who received a Graduate Certificate in ESL (GC).

• Ralph Cosio of Sherwood, who received a Graduate Certificate in ESL (GC).

• Carri Cranford of Sherwood, who received a Master of Science in School Counseling.

• Amanda Dockins of North Little Rock, who received a Master of Science in Education in Literacy with Dyslexia Endorsement.

• Samuel Harvey of Sherwood, who received a Master of Science in Computer Science (GR).

• Matthew Herndon of North Little Rock, who received a Master of Business Administration in Business Administration.

• Regina Kirk of Sherwood, who received a Graduate Certificate in ESL (GC).

• Natalee McGill of Sherwood, who received a Post-Master’s Certificate in District Level Administration (PMC).

• Dionne Mitchell of North Little Rock, who received a Graduate Certificate in ESL (GC).

• Mae Morris of North Little Rock, who received a Master of Arts in Teaching in Teaching.

• Joshua Nilz of North Little Rock, who received a Graduate Certificate in Geographic Information Systems (GC).

• Arthenia Rainey of North Little Rock, who received a Graduate Certificate in ESL (GC).

• LeAnn Stoll of North Little Rock, who received a Post-Master’s Certificate in District Level Administration (PMC).

• Bokari Williams of Sherwood, who received a Master of Science in School Leadership Management & Administration.

UCA names spring 2026 Dean’s List: The University of Central Arkansas congratulates the nearly 1,500 students who were named to the spring 2026 Dean’s List.

Eligibility on the Dean’s List requires at least a 3.5 GPA with a minimum course load of 12 credit hours.

Among those North of the River students receiving the honor were:

• Emma Gastineau of Maumelle

• Malingo Matute of Maumelle

• Landon Smith of Maumelle

• Darlene Hindman of Maumelle

• Noah Johnson of Maumelle

• James Whitley of Maumelle

• Noah Strother of North Little Rock

• Arden Santos of Maumelle

• Zachary Clesi of Maumelle

• Hannah Matheny of Maumelle

• Kerrigan Quast of Maumelle

• Blakely Rochelle of Maumelle

• Kaci Ausbrooks of Maumelle

• Andrew Carrington of Maumelle

• Natalie Wood-Carden of Maumelle

• Scarlett Cash of Maumelle

• Zoey Taylor of Maumelle

• Mitchell Davis of Maumelle

• Olivia Jackson of Maumelle

• Ayda Lovett of Maumelle

• William Musick of Maumelle

• Corban Turner of Maumelle

• Shantaria Parks of Maumelle

• Tayah Wilson of Maumelle

• Shekinah Thomas of Maumelle

• Alexa Braden of Maumelle

• Jayden Patel of Maumelle

• Krista Lee of Maumelle

• Ashton Whittington of North Little Rock

• Joshua Barham of North Little Rock

• Jenifer Roblero-Perez of North Little Rock

• Joshua Skipworth of Sherwood

• Bevan Sober of North Little Rock

• Piper Chun of North Little Rock

• Hailey Richardson of North Little Rock

• Gabrielle Stokes of North Little Rock

• Jackson Ray of North Little Rock

• Ashlynn Dring of Sherwood

• Kylie Higgins of Sherwood

• Devin Jones of North Little Rock

• Faith Henderson of North Little Rock

• Thanh Mai of North Little Rock

• Emily Phifer of North Little Rock

• Azriel Woolfolk of Sherwood

• Peter Ha of Sherwood

• Jayce Horton of Sherwood

• Hannah Hughes of North Little Rock

• Campbell Loibner of North Little Rock

• Zaria Montgomery of Sherwood

• Olivia Rankin of Sherwood

• Kayla Tolliver of North Little Rock

• Campbell Weeks of Sherwood

• Anneke Cranor of Sherwood

• Addison Pettit of Sherwood

• Erica Gourley of North Little Rock

• Lillian Roberts of North Little Rock

• Alana Clark of Sherwood

• Marlie Dedmon of Sherwood

• Olivia Jones of North Little Rock

• Kalinda Loomis of North Little Rock

• Thanh Phan of Sherwood

• Caleb Stafford of Sherwood

• Arianna Dobson of Sherwood

• Brian Harden of Sherwood

• Brittney Huynh of Sherwood

• Katelynn Lee of North Little Rock

• Traven Spencer of North Little Rock

• Keziah Stinyard of Sherwood

• Samantha White of North Little Rock

• Hanah Whitener of North Little Rock

• Jude Hurley of North Little Rock

• Israel Martin of North Little Rock

• Macayla Chandler of Sherwood

• Briana Chatman of Sherwood

• Jet Van Cleve of Sherwood

• Alexis Weeks of Sherwood

• Brasen Winchell of North Little Rock

• Kolten Shook of North Little Rock

• Hallie Singleton of North Little Rock

• Naomi Patillo of North Little Rock

• Jack Runsick of North Little Rock

• Joevon Banister of North Little Rock

• Emma Eaton of North Little Rock

• Alexa Okpala of Sherwood

• Joanna Price of North Little Rock

• Elizabeth Hankins of Sherwood .

• Da’Mya Batemon of Sherwood

• Avery Bilon of Sherwood

• Bailey Verdell of Sherwood

• Jacobi Briggs of Sherwood

• Rhyan Porchay of Sherwood

• Amy Salazar of Sherwood

• Tierra Knight of North Little Rock

• Maricruz Negrete of North Little Rock

• Dillon Smith of Sherwood

• Asher Davidson of North Little Rock

• Christy Morris of Sherwood

• Emerson Atchison of North Little Rock

• Isabella Seibel of Sherwood

• Yuvraj Singh of North Little Rock

• Keaton Freeman of North Little Rock

• Jaidyn Givan of North Little Rock

• Anna Polk of North Little Rock

• Ronald Burns of North Little Rock

• Connor Rodgers of North Little Rock

UCA names spring 2026 Presidential Scholars: The University of Central Arkansas congratulates the approximately 1,200 students who were named as Presidential Scholars for spring 2026.

Students must achieve a 4.0 GPA with a minimum course load of 12 credit hours to qualify as a Presidential Scholar.

Among the North of the River students receiving the honor were:

• Reilly McCann of Maumelle

• Maggie Green of Maumelle

• Collin Womack of Maumelle

• Eric Frank of Maumelle

• Ryan Brekeen of Maumelle

• Sarah Reeves of Maumelle

• Hannah Dickinson of Maumelle

• Alexis Meeks of Maumelle

• Olivia Oury of Maumelle

• Marley Page of Maumelle

• Patrick Shultz of Maumelle

• Daniel Franklin of Maumelle

• Peyton Gober of Maumelle

• Calleigh Kemp of Maumelle

• Rachel Blair of Maumelle

• Jancey Turner of Maumelle

• Cambria Tedrow of Maumelle

• Hannah Williams of Maumelle

• Jasper Tipton of Sherwood

• Taylor Bornds of North Little Rock

• Collin Joseph of North Little Rock

• Grayce Nelson of North Little Rock

• Jamie Jewell of North Little Rock

• Skylar Nelsen of North Little Rock

• Kailyn Jeffries of North Little Rock

• Abbie Killingsworth of North Little Rock

• William Brown of North Little Rock

• Cydney Davis of North Little Rock

• Seth Dawson of North Little Rock

• Madison Hurst of North Little Rock

• Ryan Cromer of Sherwood

• Kennedy Besancon of North Little Rock

• Meredith Lipsey of Sherwood

• Clara Principe of North Little Rock

• Joshua Haley of North Little Rock

• Jenna Ly of North Little Rock

• Claire Taylor of North Little Rock

• Jackson Houser of North Little Rock

• Caroline Cullum of North Little Rock

• Dennissa Harris of Sherwood

• Jaydon Nobles of North Little Rock

• Bradley Reynolds of Sherwood

• Lilly Wittenburg of North Little Rock

• Sophia Brown of Sherwood

• Jace Wooten of North Little Rock

• Susan LePage of Sherwood

• Amirah Watkins of North Little Rock

• Jamaya Williams of North Little Rock

• Alexis Jones of North Little Rock

• Kayla Hill of North Little Rock

• Kylie Sartain of North Little Rock

• Hannah Orillion of Sherwood

• Ashley Tipton of Sherwood

• Zoe Gronwald of North Little Rock

• Murphy Smith of North Little Rock

• Sara Jones of Sherwood

• Nia Bell of Sherwood

• Adrianna Rodgers of North Little Rock

• Victoria Cannon of North Little Rock

• Johnathon Hall of Sherwood

• Tyler Robb of North Little Rock

• Bennett Matthews of North Little Rock

• Henry Rogers of Sherwood

Sports

Upcoming Travs games

Six-day homestand against the Northwest Arkansas Naturals

Today, 6:35 p.m.

• Barkansas Dizzys Weekend: Join us in celebrating Dizzy, “The Goodest Boy in Baseball,” with a week of canine-related fun! Dogs are allowed inside the ballpark for all games this homestand (in the Berm areas only). | Presented By Farm Bureau Insurance

• $3 Thursday: Enjoy an amazing value for the whole family and the best patio in Central Arkansas! Get $3 General Admission or Beer Garden tickets at a WinChoice Box Office Window. Plus, feed the whole crew for less with select concession items for $3 each!

Friday, 7:05 p.m.

• Barkansas Dizzys Weekend: Join us in celebrating Dizzy, “The Goodest Boy in Baseball,” with a week of canine-related fun! Dogs are allowed inside the ballpark for all games this homestand (in the Berm areas only). | Presented By Farm Bureau Insurance

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank

• Promotion: Replica Jersey Giveaway: Take home a replica of the Travs’ 125th Anniversary jersey! | Presented By Pinnacle Structures | First 1,000 Fans (one item per person) | Select sizes available while supplies last

Saturday, 6:05 p.m.

• Barkansas Dizzys Weekend: Join us in celebrating Dizzy, “The Goodest Boy in Baseball,” with a week of canine-related fun! Dogs are allowed inside the ballpark for all games this homestand (in the Berm areas only). | Presented By Farm Bureau Insurance

• Dizzy’s Birthday Bash: Everyone’s favorite ballpark pup is turning 9 (human) years old! | Presented By Raising Cane’s

• Dogs Run the Bases: Our four-legged friends are invited to run the basepaths (on leash, with their humans) after the game!

• Promotion: Dizzys Dog Toy Giveaway | Presented By Raising Cane’s | First 300 Dogs (one item per pup)

Sunday, 1:35 p.m.

• Barkansas Dizzys Weekend: Join us in celebrating Dizzy, “The Goodest Boy in Baseball,” with a week of canine-related fun! Dogs are allowed inside the ballpark for all games this homestand (in the Berm areas only). | Presented By Farm Bureau Insurance

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank

• Baseball BINGO: Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529 | Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Operation: Military Appreciation: Service Members get $3 off tickets by presenting a Military ID (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window) | Presented By Mid-South Ford Dealers

• Family Sunday Deal : Get $3 General Admission tickets by presenting a physical or digital church bulletin (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window)l

At Frisco, six-game road swing, Tuesday, June 16 - Sunday, June 21

Six-game homestand against the San Antonio Missions

Tuesday, June 23, 6:35 p.m.

• Dog Day: Human fans can get $3 Berm tickets by bringing their dog to the game (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window). NOTE: Dogs are only allowed in the Berm areas | Presented By Hollywood Feed

Wednesday, June 24, 6:35 p.m.

• Dog Day: Human fans can get $3 Berm tickets by bringing their dog to the game (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window). NOTE: Dogs are only allowed in the Berm areas | Presented By Hollywood Feed

• Wing Wednesday: Get $1 OFF Flyway Bluewing (19.2 fl oz cans) at any Grab & Go stand. Plus, Chicken Wings are available at Doubleday’s Depot! | Presented By Flyway Brewing

Thursday, June 25, 6:35 p.m.

• Post-Game Wrestling: Time for the Main Event! Stick around after the game for post-game matches with the stars of Memphis Wrestling and featuring WWE Superstar Gran Metalik.

• Fiesta de Diamantes: The Travs will take the field as the Diamantes de Arkansas in salute of Hispanic Heritage!

• $3 Thursday: Enjoy an amazing value for the whole family and the best patio in Central Arkansas! Get $3 General Admission or Beer Garden tickets at a WinChoice Box Office Window. Plus, feed the whole crew for less with select concession items for $3 each!

Friday, June 26, 7:05 p.m.

• Fireworks Friday - Música Latina | Presented By Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield

• Fiesta de Diamantes: The Travs will take the field as the Diamantes de Arkansas in salute of Hispanic Heritage!

Saturday, June 27, 6:05 p.m.

• Fiesta de Diamantes: The Travs will take the field as the Diamantes de Arkansas in salute of Hispanic Heritage!

• Post-Game Fireworks

• Promotion: Diamantes Soccer Jersey Giveaway | First 1,000 Fans (one item per person) | Select sizes available while supplies last

Sunday, June 28, 1:35 p.m.

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank

• Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Baseball BINGO: Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529 | Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Operation: Military Appreciation: Service Members get $3 off tickets by presenting a Military ID (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window) | Presented By Mid-South Ford Dealers

• Family Sunday Deal : Get $3 General Admission tickets by presenting a physical or digital church bulletin (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window)

• Six-game roadtrip at Springfield, Tuesday,June 30 through Sunday, July y 5

• Six-game roadtrip at Amarillo, Tuesday, July y 7 through Sunday, July y 12

• Four-day, All-Star Break, Monday, July 13 through Thursday, July y 16.

  ---

Three-game homestand against Wichita

Friday, July 17, 7:05 p.m.

• Fireworks Friday - Salute to Sci-Fi | Presented By Arkansas State University

Saturday, July 18, 6:05 p.m.

• Star Wars Night: A short time from now in a ballpark really, really nearby...

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank

Sunday, July 19, 1:35 p.m.

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank

• Baseball BINGO: Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529 | Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Operation: Military Appreciation: Service Members get $3 off tickets by presenting a Military ID (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window) | Presented By Mid-South Ford Dealers

• Family Sunday Deal : Get $3 General Admission tickets by presenting a physical or digital church bulletin (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window)

Leave a comment

Health

Pandemic deaths unknown

The state Department of Health didn’t update the state’s dashboard this week, again, and deaths still total 532 for the past year. There’s no tab created for 2025 either and the virus has now killed 14,162 Arkansans since the pandemic began then. That would mean the pandemic death toll has now passed Marion’s 13,635 people, the state’s 29th largest city.

Covid toolkit

There’s now a one-stop shop to learn about vaccination sites and other Covid related information. Click here to learn more.

If you don’t want to get sick and die, there’s some things you can do:

• Get vaccinated

• Get boosted

• Wear a mask

• Avoid crowds

Subscribe if you like, pay if you can

Note to subscribers: An annual or monthly subscription is billed to your debit or credit card as ARKANSAS.SUBSTACK.COM and if you have questions, please email arkansas@substack.com. Thanks for reading and subscribing!

The Headlines

• MEETINGS: The North Little Rock School Board will have a special call meeting and workshop starting at 5:30 p.m. tonight. The meeting will be at the administration building and will be livestreamed on the district’s YouTube page. The meeting is open to the public. The North Little Rock City Council will meet next Monday night at City Hall. The meeting has been moved up to a 5 p.m. start. That meeting will also be livestreamed on the city’s YouTube page and the public is also invited.

• EVENTS: Next Tuesday, June 9, the city of North Little Rock will open the new Central Fire Station on Main Street at 11 a.m. The new station will be home to Station One’s emergency response unit as well as the North Little Rock Fire Department’s administrative offices. The 24,500-square-foot station was paid for with the half-cent sales tax approved by North Little Rock voters in 2022 to fund public safety, public works, and parks. The building will include: a turnout storage room, five bays, an indoor mechanics' shop, 14 bedrooms, 10 restrooms, covered parking for reserve apparatus and special operations trailers, a dedicated gym, and a hot/warm/cold zone to keep carcinogens out of the living area. The building was designed by Jackson, Brown, Palculict Architects, and Alessi Keyes Construction built the building. North Little Rock will also host a beam signing for the Tempo Hotel downtown at 2 p.m. on Thursday, June 18. The event will be held at the city’s Event Center at 120 Main St.

Subscribe if you like, pay if you can

Tag! Little Rock is it

Trojan Fever, are you catching it?

Maybe because regardless of what happens this weekend in the Super Regionals, the Trojans will be advancing to the College World Series next week in Omaha, Neb.

The other question of the day is, which Trojans? Both host Troy University and the University of Arkansas at Little Rock have the same mascot and are facing each other. Both teams are in the Super Regionals for the first time and, obviously, the winner would advance to their first-ever College World Series appearance.

First pitch in the best-of-three series is 4 p.m. this Friday and the game will be televised on ESPNU. The second game will be at 2 p.m. on Saturday and televised on ESPN2. The third game, if necessary, will be on Sunday but game time is still to be determined.

Key to Little Rock’s success this season is redshirt freshman pitcher Tag Andrews, above, who played at Maumelle and was previously with the Arkansas Razorbacks.

Andrews, a righty, is 5-2 on the season in a relief role and was All-Ohio Valley Conference Second Team, OVC All-Freshman Team, OVC Tournament MVP, All-OVC Tournament Team and also earned Hattiesburg Regional All-Tournament Team honors when the Trojans won to advance to this week’s Super Regionals.

Andrews had seven saves on the season, while striking out 44 batters in 44.2 innings.

The team’s success has pushed Little Rock to previously unseen heights as the Trojans became nationally ranked for the first time under coach Chris Curry, who has been running the program the last 12 years,

Little Rock is No. 19 in this week’s NCBWA poll and are 39-26 on the season, with games remaining.

“To be ranked in the top 20 nationally is another indication of where our program has risen to,” Curry said. “I’m proud of our players and staff and coaches for being recognized at this level. I hope we can only keep getting better.”

The Trojans are riding an eight-game winning streak going into the Super Regionals, after winning the second-consecutive OVC tournament championship. Last season’s team also advanced to the regionals, and took LSU to the wire but lost in Game Three at Baton Rouge.

Little Rock got to the Super Regional by beating Jacksonville State last Sunday, 6-3, the Regional Championship at Hattiesburg, Miss. Little Rock beat host Southern Miss in the first game, then beat Jacksonville State twice to eliminate the Gamecocks.

Five Little Rock players were named to the Hattiesburg Regional All-Tournament Team and Blake Simpson was selected as the tournament’s Most Outstanding Player as a unanimous selection

2026 NCAA Hattiesburg Regional All-Tournament Team

• Catcher – Tucker Stockman, Southern Miss

• First Base – Brady Thomas, Jacksonville State

• Second Base – Joe Tiroly, Virginia

• Third Base – Nolan Freund, Little Rock

• Shortstop – Jerdy Lopez, Little Rock

• Outfielder – Blake Simpson, Little Rock (unanimous)

• Outfielder – AJ Gracia, Virginia

• Outfielder – Davis Gillespie, Southern Miss

• Designated Hitter – Nico Baumbach, Little Rock

• Pitcher – Steven Cash, Jacksonville State

• Pitcher – Tag Andrews, Little Rock

• Most Outstanding Player – Blake Simpson, Little Rock

Subscribe now

Shepherd, Williams honored by Arkansas Boys State

Arkansas Boys State inducted Matthew Shepherd and Darrin Williams into the Arkansas Boys State Hall of Fame on Friday, May 29, during the closing session of the program’s 85th annual session at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway.

The Arkansas Boys State Hall of Fame recognizes alumni whose careers reflect leadership, civic responsibility, public service, and a continued commitment to strengthening communities and institutions. Shepherd and Williams join a group of alumni whose service has had a lasting impact in Arkansas and beyond.

“Matthew Shepherd and Darrin Williams represent the kind of leadership Arkansas Boys State works to develop-principled, engaged, and focused on service,” said Dr. Lloyd Jackson, executive director of Arkansas Boys State. “Their careers show our delegates that civic responsibility does not end after a week at Arkansas Boys State. It continues in the way we lead, serve, and contribute to the common good.”

Shepherd, a 1993 Arkansas Boys State delegate, is an attorney and member of the Arkansas House of Representatives. He represents District 97, which includes El Dorado and portions of Union County, and served as Speaker of the Arkansas House of Representatives from June 2018 to January 2025, making him the longest-serving Speaker in modern Arkansas history.

Williams, a 1985 Arkansas Boys State delegate, is chief executive officer of Southern Bancorp, Inc., one of the nation’s oldest and largest community development financial institutions. His career has included leadership in law, public service, banking, and financial inclusion, with a focus on expanding economic opportunity in rural and underserved communities throughout the Mid-South.

The induction came at the conclusion of a week in which Arkansas Boys State delegates built and operated a working model of city, county, district, and state government. Throughout the week, delegates ran for office, held elections, debated legislation, solved community challenges, engaged with public leaders, and participated in civic programming under the guiding principle “Democracy Depends on Me.”

More information about Arkansas Boys State is available at arboysstate.org.

Share Arkansas Newsroom

Sports

Upcoming Travs games

Now through June 7, at Corpus Christi.

Six-day homestand against the Northwest Arkansas Naturals

Tuesday, June 9, 6:35 p.m.

• Dog Day: Human fans can get $3 Berm tickets by bringing their dog to the game (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window). NOTE: Dogs are only allowed in the Berm areas | Presented By Hollywood Feed

Wednesday, June 10, 6:35 p.m.

• Dog Day: Human fans can get $3 Berm tickets by bringing their dog to the game (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window). NOTE: Dogs are only allowed in the Berm areas | Presented By Hollywood Feed

• Wing Wednesday: Get $1 OFF Flyway Bluewing (19.2 fl oz cans) at any Grab & Go stand. Plus, Chicken Wings are available at Doubleday’s Depot! | Presented By Flyway Brewing

Thursday, June 11, 6:35 p.m.

• Barkansas Dizzys Weekend: Join us in celebrating Dizzy, “The Goodest Boy in Baseball,” with a week of canine-related fun! Dogs are allowed inside the ballpark for all games this homestand (in the Berm areas only). | Presented By Farm Bureau Insurance

• $3 Thursday: Enjoy an amazing value for the whole family and the best patio in Central Arkansas! Get $3 General Admission or Beer Garden tickets at a WinChoice Box Office Window. Plus, feed the whole crew for less with select concession items for $3 each!

Friday, June 12, 7:05 p.m.

• Barkansas Dizzys Weekend: Join us in celebrating Dizzy, “The Goodest Boy in Baseball,” with a week of canine-related fun! Dogs are allowed inside the ballpark for all games this homestand (in the Berm areas only). | Presented By Farm Bureau Insurance

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank

• Promotion: Replica Jersey Giveaway: Take home a replica of the Travs’ 125th Anniversary jersey! | Presented By Pinnacle Structures | First 1,000 Fans (one item per person) | Select sizes available while supplies last

Saturday, June 13, 6:05 p.m.

• Barkansas Dizzys Weekend: Join us in celebrating Dizzy, “The Goodest Boy in Baseball,” with a week of canine-related fun! Dogs are allowed inside the ballpark for all games this homestand (in the Berm areas only). | Presented By Farm Bureau Insurance

• Dizzy’s Birthday Bash: Everyone’s favorite ballpark pup is turning 9 (human) years old! | Presented By Raising Cane’s

• Dogs Run the Bases: Our four-legged friends are invited to run the basepaths (on leash, with their humans) after the game!

• Promotion: Dizzys Dog Toy Giveaway | Presented By Raising Cane’s | First 300 Dogs (one item per pup)

Sunday, June 14, 1:35 p.m.

• Barkansas Dizzys Weekend: Join us in celebrating Dizzy, “The Goodest Boy in Baseball,” with a week of canine-related fun! Dogs are allowed inside the ballpark for all games this homestand (in the Berm areas only). | Presented By Farm Bureau Insurance

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank

• Baseball BINGO: Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529 | Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Operation: Military Appreciation: Service Members get $3 off tickets by presenting a Military ID (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window) | Presented By Mid-South Ford Dealers

• Family Sunday Deal : Get $3 General Admission tickets by presenting a physical or digital church bulletin (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window)l

At Frisco, six-game road swing, Tuesday, June 16 - Sunday, June e 21

Six-game homestand against the San Antonio Missions

Tuesday, June 23, 6:35 p.m.

• Dog Day: Human fans can get $3 Berm tickets by bringing their dog to the game (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window). NOTE: Dogs are only allowed in the Berm areas | Presented By Hollywood Feed

Wednesday, June 24, 6:35 p.m.

• Dog Day: Human fans can get $3 Berm tickets by bringing their dog to the game (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window). NOTE: Dogs are only allowed in the Berm areas | Presented By Hollywood Feed

• Wing Wednesday: Get $1 OFF Flyway Bluewing (19.2 fl oz cans) at any Grab & Go stand. Plus, Chicken Wings are available at Doubleday’s Depot! | Presented By Flyway Brewing

Thursday, June 25, 6:35 p.m.

• Post-Game Wrestling: Time for the Main Event! Stick around after the game for post-game matches with the stars of Memphis Wrestling and featuring WWE Superstar Gran Metalik.

• Fiesta de Diamantes: The Travs will take the field as the Diamantes de Arkansas in salute of Hispanic Heritage!

• $3 Thursday: Enjoy an amazing value for the whole family and the best patio in Central Arkansas! Get $3 General Admission or Beer Garden tickets at a WinChoice Box Office Window. Plus, feed the whole crew for less with select concession items for $3 each!

Friday, June 26, 7:05 p.m.

• Fireworks Friday - Música Latina | Presented By Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield

• Fiesta de Diamantes: The Travs will take the field as the Diamantes de Arkansas in salute of Hispanic Heritage!

Saturday, June 27, 6:05 p.m.

• Fiesta de Diamantes: The Travs will take the field as the Diamantes de Arkansas in salute of Hispanic Heritage!

• Post-Game Fireworks

• Promotion: Diamantes Soccer Jersey Giveaway | First 1,000 Fans (one item per person) | Select sizes available while supplies last

Sunday, June 28, 1:35 p.m.

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank

• Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Baseball BINGO: Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529 | Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Operation: Military Appreciation: Service Members get $3 off tickets by presenting a Military ID (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window) | Presented By Mid-South Ford Dealers

• Family Sunday Deal : Get $3 General Admission tickets by presenting a physical or digital church bulletin (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window)

• Six-game roadtrip at Springfield, Tuesday,June 30 through Sunday, July y 5

• Six-game roadtrip at Amarillo, Tuesday, July y 7 through Sunday, July y 12

• Four-day, All-Star Break, Monday, July 13 through Thursday, July y 16.

  ---

Three-game homestand against Wichita

Friday, July 17, 7:05 p.m.

• Fireworks Friday - Salute to Sci-Fi | Presented By Arkansas State University

Saturday, July 18, 6:05 p.m.

• Star Wars Night: A short time from now in a ballpark really, really nearby...

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank

Sunday, July 19, 1:35 p.m.

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank

• Baseball BINGO: Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529 | Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Operation: Military Appreciation: Service Members get $3 off tickets by presenting a Military ID (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window) | Presented By Mid-South Ford Dealers

• Family Sunday Deal : Get $3 General Admission tickets by presenting a physical or digital church bulletin (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window)

Leave a comment

Health

Pandemic deaths unknown

The state Department of Health didn’t update the state’s dashboard this week, again, and deaths still total 532 for the past year. There’s no tab created for 2025 either and the virus has now killed 14,162 Arkansans since the pandemic began then. That would mean the pandemic death toll has now passed Marion’s 13,635 people, the state’s 29th largest city.

Covid toolkit

There’s now a one-stop shop to learn about vaccination sites and other Covid related information. Click here to learn more.

If you don’t want to get sick and die, there’s some things you can do:

• Get vaccinated

• Get boosted

• Wear a mask

• Avoid crowds

Subscribe if you like, pay if you can

Note to subscribers: An annual or monthly subscription is billed to your debit or credit card as ARKANSAS.SUBSTACK.COM and if you have questions, please email arkansas@substack.com. Thanks for reading and subscribing!

The Headlines

• MEETINGS: The Maumelle Planning Commission meets tonight at City Hall. For more on that keep scrolling. The Maumelle City Council will meet next Monday night at City Hall.

• EVENTS: Monday was Memorial Day, so trash and recycling are running one-day delayed this week as a result. We won’t judge if you put your can, or cans, out early, but we do. Sorry, not sorry. Maumelle’s Summer Kick-Off is Friday at Lake Willastein. It is scheduled to start at 5:30 p.m. and for more check out the map below.

  

Subscribe if you like, pay if you can

Maumelle Planning Commission to meet tonight

The Maumelle Planning Commission will meet at 6:30 p.m. tonight at City Hall for its regularly scheduled meeting in May,

For the agenda, click here, but be forewarned, it is a light one with just two items of business.

The first is old business and is on the proposed Vietwiches Bakery and Cafe, hhmm, bahn mi. It had already been approved by the Planning Commission but the location is moving from Lot 70B in the Maumelle Gateway Planned Commercial District, or PCD. It originally had been approved for Lot 70A.

There’s some changes to landscaping and the design of the commercial building.

The item of new business is on the Carnahan Square PCD and is for discussion only with no action to be taken.

That’s it.

The meeting is open to the public and will be livestreamed on the city’s YouTube page.

Subscribe now

Maumelle Charter finishes as runners-up

Maumelle Charter’s first state title game appearance didn’t go the way they would have liked as the Lady Falcons lost to Lifeway Christian last Friday at Hot Springs Lakeside.

Lifeway Christian (16-4) repeated as the 3A state champs with the win as Chloe Marples finished with the hat trick.

Maumelle Charter’s Rileigh McClendonn scored the Lady Falcons only goal of the match as the squad finished 18-3-2 on the year.

Conditions weren’t ideal for either team as it was a rainy Friday in Hot Springs as the match saw two delays due to weather.

Subscribe now

North of the River students elected to leadership roles at Boys State

North of the River students were elected by their peers to the State Senate and State House of Representatives on Tuesday, May 26, as part of the 85th annual session of Arkansas Boys State, where students build a mock government structure, including eight different congressional districts, each with three senators and 10 representatives.

The students elected to the Arkansas Boys State legislature include:

• Jalil Jeanpierre of Sherwood from Lisa Academy North High School was elected as State Representative

• Javion Dotson of Maumelle from Maumelle High School was elected as State Representative.

• Quaid Hairston of Sherwood from Little Rock Central was elected as State Representative

• Dallas Quast of Maumelle from Maumelle Charter High School was elected as State Representative

• Mandrell Howell Jr. of Sherwood from Sylvan Hills High School was elected as State Representative

By earning election to the Arkansas Boys State legislature, these local students will represent fellow delegates in the program’s legislature. They will take part in the legislative process by listening to constituents, discussing ideas with other elected delegates, considering policy proposals and helping shape the laws and priorities of the Arkansas Boys State government.

The legislative experience gives delegates a hands-on look at how representation works. Throughout the week, student lawmakers will consider the needs of their cities, counties and districts while working across perspectives to address challenges within the Arkansas Boys State simulation. The role calls on students to communicate clearly, think critically and make decisions with the broader community in mind.

“Election to the Arkansas Boys State legislature is a meaningful sign of trust from fellow delegates,” said Lloyd Jackson, executive director of Arkansas Boys State. “Whether serving in the House or Senate, these students are asked to listen, lead and take seriously the responsibility of representing others.”

North of the River students were elected by their peers to county office on Monday, May 25, as part of the 85th annual session of Arkansas Boys State, where students build a mock government structure, including eight different mock counties each with their own county judge, vice county judge, county sheriff, and justices of the peace.

Those students elected to county leadership roles at Arkansas Boys State include:

• Jonah Fuller of Maumelle from Maumelle Charter High School was elected to Justice of the Peace for Hanner County

• Mandrell Howell Jr. of Sherwood from Sylvan Hills High School was elected to Justice of the Peace for Hanner County

• Walter Wenger of North Little Rock from North Little Rock Center of Excellence was elected to County Judge for Carvell County

• Curtis Hardaway of Maumelle from Maumelle High School was elected to Sheriff for Carvell County

County government plays a central role in the Arkansas Boys State experience. Delegates are assigned to cities, counties and political parties, then work with their peers to campaign for office, vote in elections, debate policy, address community challenges and participate in a full week of civic programming.

As an elected county official, these local students will help represent and serve the citizens of their respective counties. County officials guide their fellow delegates through the program’s simulations, discussions and civic responsibilities while building a sense of shared purpose and pride among the students in their county.

“County office gives students a meaningful opportunity to lead beyond themselves,” said Jackson”The county is one of the places where delegates build their closest connections, learn to work across differences and begin to understand how leadership affects an entire community.”

Even more students were elected by their peers to city office on Monday, May 25, as part of the 85th annual session of Arkansas Boys State, where students build a mock government structure, including sixteen different mock cities, each with their own city council and mayor.

Those students elected to city leadership roles at Arkansas Boys State 2026 include:

• McConnell Robertson of Sherwood from Catholic High School for Boys elected as City Council Position One for Sherwood City

• Ian Parrett of Sherwood from Conway Christian High School elected as Mayor for Lovell City

• Mitchell Knox of North Little Rock from eStem High School elected as City Council Position Three for Lovell City

• Quaid Hairston of Sherwood from Little Rock Central elected as City Council Position Four for Lovell City

• Javion Dotson of Maumelle from Maumelle High School elected as City Council Position 1 for Kelley City

As a city elected official, these students will help lead their respective city, one of the 16 student-led cities that make up the Arkansas Boys State government simulation. Delegates at Arkansas Boys State are assigned to cities, counties and political parties, then work together to build a functioning model government from the ground up. Through elections, debate, public service projects and daily decision-making, students experience the responsibilities of democratic citizenship firsthand.

This role will place these local students at the center of local government during the week. City officials at Arkansas Boys State are responsible for helping their communities organize, respond to challenges, represent constituents and create a strong civic identity among delegates who live, work and compete together throughout the session.

“City leadership is where many delegates first discover that public service is personal,” said Jackson. “When a student is elected by his peers, he is being trusted to listen, communicate clearly and help move his community forward. That is exactly the kind of leadership Arkansas Boys State is designed to develop.”

In addition to serving in city government, these local students will participate in political party rallies, attend Schools of Instruction, take part in leadership discussions, hear from civic and public officials, and participate in recreational and community-building activities with delegates from across Arkansas.

Arkansas Boys State’s guiding theme is “Democracy Depends on Me.” Being elected to city office offers a hands-on opportunity to practice that principle by serving others, leading peers and helping shape the experience of Arkansas Boys State delegates throughout the week.

Since 1940, Arkansas Boys State has helped prepare more than 60,000 alumni for lives of citizenship, public service and leadership. More information about Arkansas Boys State is available at arboysstate.org.

Share

Taking the questionnaire

The Late Show with Stephen Colbert went off the air last week and it will be missed.

To be honest, I normally go to bed by 10 these days, so I rarely watch any of the late night programming as it airs. I either record it, so I can skip the commercials, or watch clips on YouTube as my time allows.

The latter is how I normally catch Colbert, clips a day or two or years later. I’ve really become transfixed by the Colbert Questionnaire, maybe because it appeals to my reporter’s sensibilities or maybe because I get paid money to ask questions, which are mostly the same thing.

And, again, to be honest, I would have trouble answering some of the questions I ask. Like, the guests at my fantasy dinner party would be?

I don’t know but that’s not a very good answer. Maybe a better one would be my grandparents who I didn’t get to know because three of the four were dead before I was 10, and the other not in the best health mentally or physically despite living to be nearly 100. Maybe my dad, who also died when I was in my early 20s.

But, that’s also depressing.

Anyway, back to Colbert, the format is live TV, so you don’t get time to think, even though the questions have mostly followed the same format over the years so you can plan. The actual number of questions has varied, but using the most recent as a template, it is basically 14 that seem to be pretty consistent.

Doing this is a challenge, at least for me. The questions are below, if you want to do this for yourself. And my Q&A follows.

• What’s the best sandwich? The BLT. Good tomato and a little bit of Miracle Whip. Romaine instead of iceberg lettuce, not because I’m a hater of iceberg, just we normally have romaine in the fridge plus some bacon. Two strips, broken into halves. Usually the low sodium Kroger variety since, again, that’s what we tend to have. Second choice would be peanut butter and jelly but actor Ryan Gosling gave a great response here when he said an ice cream sandwich. I’d add the cheap kind, where the cookie wafer sticks to your fingers.

• What is the scariest animal? Bears. Grizzly bears to be specific. They’re big. They’re fast. They’re vicious. If you go out west or Alaska or any place else they roam. You’ll hear, “Black, fight back. Brown lie down” as it relates to bears. Black tend to be afraid of humans, so get big and get loud and they’l;l run off. Brown, or grizzlies, will eat you, if given the opportunity. So the counsel is to lie down, on your stomach and hope your backpack gives you some protection. The idea also being if you’re on your stomach, and spread eagled, it will be harder for the grizzly to flip you over and eat your delicious, to it, stomach first.

• What was your first concert? I wish I had a better answer then I don’t remember but I don’t really remember. I have some vague memories of being four and singing “Oh Christmas Tree” at church. It was in German, because I was a baby genius who learned German at 4, so it was actually “O Tannebaum.” I can’t speak a word of German now, but if I watch a film in German, I can understand the words towards the end without reading the subtitles.

• Apples or oranges? Apples. I eat an apple most every day. Plus oranges, occasionally, give me an upset tummy.

• Have you ever asked someone for their autograph? Yes. The first time was professional wrestler JunkYard Dog, who was wrestling in the parking lot of my hometown Wal-Mart when they still had the Midnight Madness sales. (Tell me you grew up in rural Arkansas without telling me where you grew up.) He signed the Polaroid that we took to mark the moment. Also, JYD, RIP.

• What do you think happens when we die? I don’t know. The mystery of faith says we’ll find out. But,. personally, Keanu Reeves gave an all-timer when he said, “I don’t know, but the ones who love us, will miss us.”

• Favorite action movie? The Matrix legit blew my brain out when I saw it in the theater.

• Window or aisle? Window. I love looking at the tops of clouds.

• Favorite smell? Two. The lotion my wife uses as she’s getting ready. Also, the dog’s paws smell like tortilla chips and I find that very satisfying.

• Least favorite smell? Also the dog. You can guess why. But, seriously, two decades ago I took a reporting trip to Metairie, Louisiana. Not because I was some fancy reporter but because the National Guard was doing free media flights and for some reason I got invited. It was a day spent bouncing around the wreckage that happened after Hurricane Katrina, but before Rita hit and made it worse. Anyway, one of the things they don’t tell you about hurricane coverage is the smell. Specifically, the smell that comes from the fridges and deep freezes rolled to the curb to be hauled away later. When the power goes out, whatever’s in your fridge, or deep freeze, goes bad in a day or so. When the power is out for a week, there’s no point in trying to save the appliances and the best you can do is tape it shut and roll it out of the house. The stench, even from a taped shut fridge is astonishing. I’ve only smelled that smell that one day, and it is truly unforgettable. Just the worst.

• Cats or dogs? Dogs rule, cats drool. Not really. Cats are fine. Just don’t have one.

• You get one song to listen to for the rest of your life: what is it? The Living Bubba by the Drive-By Truckers or Goddamn Lonely Love by Jason Isbell. I hear they can play that on the radio in Canada, they don’t but they could if they wanted.

• What number am I thinking of? Three. I’m always thinking of 3. If not, 23.

• Describe the rest of your life in 5 words: The point of this, is it supposed to be a quick response, not something you get to think about for a few days. Maybe but my best stab is, I’d like more time, please.

1. What’s the best sandwich?

2. What is the scariest animal?

3. What was your first concert?

4. Apples or oranges?

5. Have you ever asked someone for their autograph?

6. What do you think happens when we die?

7. Favorite action movie?

8. Window or aisle?

9. Favorite smell?

10. Least favorite smell?

11. Cats or dogs?

12. You get one song to listen to for the rest of your life: what is it?

13. What number am I thinking of?

14. Describe the rest of your life in 5 words.

Share Arkansas Newsroom

Sports

Upcoming Travs games

Six-game homestand against Springfield

Today, 6:35 p.m.

• $3 Thursday: Enjoy an amazing value for the whole family and the best patio in Central Arkansas! Get $3 General Admission or Beer Garden tickets at a WinChoice Box Office Window. Plus, feed the whole crew for less with select concession items for $3 each!

Friday, 7:05 p.m.

• Fireworks Friday: Presented By Bank OZK

Saturday, 6:35 p.m.

• Cal Raleigh Bobblecard Giveaway: Presented By Hardee’s | First 1,000 Fans (one item per person)

• Post-Game Fireworks

Sunday, 6:05 p.m.

• Post-Game Fireworks

• Baseball BINGO: Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Operation: Military Appreciation: Service Members get $3 off General Admission and Field Reserved tickets by presenting a Military ID (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window) | Presented By Mid-South Ford Dealers

Six-game homestand against Frisco

Today, 6:35 p.m.

• $3 Thursday: Enjoy an amazing value for the whole family and the best patio in Central Arkansas! Get $3 General Admission or Beer Garden tickets at a WinChoice Box Office Window. Plus, feed the whole crew for less with select concession items for $3 each!

• Singles Night: Let the Travs help turn a single into a double! Join us at the ballpark for a pre-game “Singles Mingle” event.

Friday, 7:05 p.m.

• Fireworks Friday: Presented By Baldwin & Shell Construction

Saturday, May 30, 6:05 p.m

• Faith & Family Night: The perfect night for a church group outing! | Enjoy a pre-game moderated Q&A with Olympic gold medalist Jordyn Wieber, pictured above, starting at 4:45. Wieber will also be available to meet & greet with fans during the game. | Presented By Hickingbotham Investments

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank

Sunday, May 31, 1:35 p.m.

• Fiesta de Diamantes: The Travs will take the field as the Diamantes de Arkansas in salute of Hispanic Heritage!

• Kids Baseball Clinic: Kids 13 and under are invited to join Travs players on field for a baseball clinic starting at noon! Instruction will last approximately 45 minutes. | Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank

• Baseball BINGO: Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Operation: Military Appreciation: Service Members get $3 off General Admission and Field Reserved tickets by presenting a Military ID (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window) | Presented By Mid-South Ford Dealers

• Family Sunday Deal: Get $3 General Admission tickets by presenting a physical or digital church bulletin (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window).

  ---

June 2 through June 7, at Corpus Christi.

Leave a comment

Health

Pandemic deaths unknown

The state Department of Health didn’t update the state’s dashboard this week, again, and deaths still total 532 for the past year. There’s no tab created for 2025 either and the virus has now killed 14,162 Arkansans since the pandemic began then. That would mean the pandemic death toll has now passed Marion’s 13,635 people, the state’s 29th largest city.

Covid toolkit

There’s now a one-stop shop to learn about vaccination sites and other Covid related information. Click here to learn more.

If you don’t want to get sick and die, there’s some things you can do:

• Get vaccinated

• Get boosted

• Wear a mask

• Avoid crowds

Subscribe if you like, pay if you can

Note to subscribers: An annual or monthly subscription is billed to your debit or credit card as ARKANSAS.SUBSTACK.COM and if you have questions, please email arkansas@substack.com. Thanks for reading and subscribing!

The Headlines

• MEETINGS: The North Little Rock City Council will meet next Tuesday night at City Hall. The meeting is delayed one day due to the Memorial Day holiday on Monday. The North Little Rock School Board will have a regular meeting at 5:30 p.m. tonight at the district’s administration building. For the agenda, click here. Both meetings will be livestreamed on YouTube and the public is invited to both.

• EVENTS: This coming Monday is Memorial Day and a good time to reflect on what’s come before. Maumelle will again be hosting an event at the war memorial at Lake Willastein. It is scheduled to start at 10 a.m. and in case of inclement weather, it will be held at the Jess Odom Center. As is the case with every holiday, trash and recycling will one-day delayed next week and the various governmental offices will be closed on Monday.

Subscribe if you like, pay if you can

Graduation season

Graduation season is nearly complete as Maumelle Charter, Central Arkansas Christian and North Little Rock high schools have all successfully pulled off commencements.

Maumelle High School is all that’s left and they will be having graduation ceremonies at the Jack Stephens Center and the time slot is 1:30 p.m. this Saturday, May 23.

It is one of four graduation ceremonies for the high schools in the Pulaski County Special School District with the others being:

• Sylvan Hills, 6:30 p.m., Friday, May 22

• Mills, 9 a.m., Saturday, May 23

• Joe T. Robinson, 5:30 p.m., Saturday, May 23

For more information or to watch the PCSSD graduation ceremonies the day of, click here.

Subscribe now

Maumelle Charter to play for state title

School might be over but Maumelle Charter is still playing as the Lady Falcons are headed to the Class 3A girls state championship match at Hot Springs Lakeside at 2 p.m. this Friday.

Maumelle Charter is 18-2-2 on the season and coached by Mateo Johnson.

It is rarefied air for Maumelle Charter as the school is making its first ever state finals appearance in any sport and titles have been hard to come by for Maumelle schools in general, with Central Arkansas Christian excepted.

Maumelle’s Lady Hornets lost in the state finals in girls soccer in 2014 and 2017, while also having lost state championship game appearances in baseball and boys basketball. Wrestling has been a bright spot with back-to-back team titles in 2013 and 2014.

CAC, however, has been a legit powerhouse with nine state titles in girls soccer and four runners-up.

Maumelle Charter enters the title match with an 18-2-2 overall record with losses to CAC on March 10 and Episcpal Collegiate on April 17. There were also draws to Thaden in the season opener on March 3 and then another draw to Baptist Prep on May 1.

Maumelle Charter avenged that first draw to Thaden by beating them 3-2 on penalty kicks in the state semifinals after battling to 1-1 draw.

The win set off a wild celebration by the Lady Falcons, pictured below.

The reward was a state title appearance against Lifeway Christian, out of Centerton in northwest Arkansas, and they’re 15-5 overall and second in their conference to Thaden, who beat them twice during the regular season.

The match will be streamed on the NFHS Network for those unable to attend.

Centennial Bank State Soccer Championships schedule

Friday

• 10 a.m.: 6A Boys: Har-Ber vs Bentonville

• Noon: 6A Girls: Bentonville West vs Mt. St. Mary

• 2 p.m.: 3A Girls: Life Way Christian vs Maumelle Charter

• 4 p.m.: 4A Girls: Robinson vs Brookland

Saturday

• 10 a.m.: 5A Girls: Russellville vs Searcy

• Noon: 5A Boys: Siloam Springs vs El Dorado

• 2 p.m.: 3A Boys: Decatur vs Episcopal Collegiate

• 4 p.m.: 4A Boys: De Queen vs Nashville

Maumelle Charter roster

• # ... Players ... Pos. … Class

• 0 ... Myriah May ... W ... Jr.

• 1 ... Mallie Smith ... W ... So.

• 3 ... Rileigh McClendon ... Mid ... So.

• 5 ... Katelyn Hill ... F ... Sr.

• 7 ... Brooklyn Lampe ... Mid ... Fr.

• 8 ... Julianne Wnek ... W ... Fr.

• 9 ... Ava bella Van noy ... D ... Fr.

• 10 ... Serena Johnson ... D ... Sr.

• 11 ... Olivia Williamson ... D ... Fr.

• 12 ... Barrett Welker ... D ... Mid ... Sr.

• 13 ... Emorie Reeves ... F ... Fr.

• 15 ... Ryley Mayden ... G ... Jr.

• 16 ... Ariana Gonzalez ... Mid ... So.

• 17 ... Ashley Coker ... G ... Fr.

• 20 ... Hannah Clark ... D ... Jr

• 22 ... Katherine Sanders ... Mid ... Fr.

• 23 ... Jenna Evans ... D ... Fr.

• 26 ... Mallory Barton ... Mid ... So.

• Lynlee Rawe ... Sr.

• Serena McLennan ... Sr.

• Juliana MillerJuliana Miller ... Sr.

• Michelle BaezaMichelle Baeza ... Jr.

Baseball, softball state championships broadcast live on Arkansas TV

The state finals in high school baseball and softball are set and those games will again be televised by Arkansas TV.

Action starts today from Majestic Park in Hot Springs with the games concluding on Saturday, weather permitting.

The broadcast schedule is : 

• 2A Baseball – Woodlawn vs. Palestine-Wheatley – Today at 10 a.m.

• 2A Softball – Tuckerman vs. Woodlawn – Today at 1 p.m.

• 3A Baseball – Haskell Harmony Grove vs. Ashdown– Today at 4 p.m.

• 3A Softball – DeWitt vs. Harding Academy – Today at 7 p.m.

• 4A Softball – Warren vs. Monticello – Friday at 10 a.m.

• 4A Baseball – Brookland vs. Pulaski Academy – Friday at 1 p.m.

• 6A Softball – Bentonville vs. Har-Ber – Friday at 4 p.m.

• 6A Baseball – Har-Ber vs. Bryant – Friday at 7 p.m.

• 1A Baseball – Mt. Ida vs. Taylor – Saturday at 10 a.m.

• 1A Softball – Taylor vs. Scranton – Saturday at 1 p.m.

• 5A Baseball – Benton vs. Valley View – Saturday at 4 p.m.

• 5A Softball – Farmington vs. Benton – Saturday at 7 p.m.

Stats from the baseball and softball championship games will be available at aaaweekendofchampions.gamedaypreps.com/.

Funding for Arkansas TV Sports is provided by the Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas, the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS), Image One and the University of Central Arkansas.

Arkansas TV also recognizes AAA’s sponsors for the state high school basketball finals, including Centennial Bank, Arkansas Farm Bureau and Everett Buick GMC. 

Subscribe now

Maumelle Charter High School names top graduates

Maumelle Charter High School announced Carter Martin as valedictorian and Taylor Jamison as salutatorian for the Class of 2026.

Martin has attended Academics Plus Charter Schools since first grade and has been involved in Beta Club, National Honor Society, Fellowship of Christian Students and tennis. He earned $166,000 in scholarship offers and plans to attend the University of Arkansas to study engineering. He is the son of Keith and Beth Martin of Maumelle.

Jamison, above, has attended Academics Plus Charter Schools since kindergarten and has served as varsity cheer co-captain and participated in band, Student Government Association, Beta Club, National Honor Society, and Model United Nations. She earned $625,000 in scholarship offers and plans to attend the University of Arkansas to study information systems. She is the daughter of Antonio and Tyneshia Jamison of Mayflower.

Academics Plus names Board appointments, officers

The Academics Plus Charter Schools Board of Trustees has appointed two new board members and reappointed three members.

Dr. Meredith Brunen and Mae Wilder were newly appointed to the board. J.D. Lowery, Neal Moore and Daren Sweat were reappointed for three-year terms.

Brunen, above, with over two decades of experience in higher education executive leadership, is a Senior Consultant with Gonser Gerber. She earned bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees from the University of Arkansas. She and her husband, Kyle, have two sons, Beau, a rising sixth grader, and Jude, a rising seventh grader, at Maumelle Charter Middle School. Brunen will serve a two-year term.

Wilder, above, is a strategic energy management consultant with CLEAResult and earned a bachelor’s degree from Hendrix College and a master’s degree from Amberton University in Garland, Texas. She and her husband, Mason, have a daughter, Luna, a rising fourth grader at Maumelle Charter Elementary School and Stellan, a one-year-old future Falcon. Wilder will serve a one-year term.

The board also elected officers for the upcoming year: Adria Conklin, chair; J.D. Lowery, vice chair; Daren Sweat, secretary; and Sean Hagen, treasurer.

Academics Plus Charter Schools includes Maumelle Charter High School, Maumelle Charter Middle School. Maumelle Charter Elementary School and Scott Charter School.

Share

Arkansas Boys State to welcome 580 students from 200 high schools

Arkansas Boys State will welcome 580 young men from 200 high schools across the state to its 85th summer session, held next week, May 24-29, at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway.

Sponsored by the American Legion, the weeklong leadership and civic engagement experience invites male high school juniors to learn how democracy works by building a mock government from the ground up.

Among the 580 young men are the following local students representing their community and school are the following North of the River students:

• David Webster of North Little Rock from CAC

• Javion Dotson of Maumelle from Maumelle High School

• Curtis Hardaway of Maumelle from Maumelle High School

• Ashton Shelton of Maumelle from Maumelle High School

• McConnell Robertson of Sherwood from Little Rock Catholic

• Tyler Brooks of North Little Rock from Scott Charter School

• Preston Goode of Maumelle from Maumelle Charter High School

• Connley Kemp of Maumelle from Maumelle Charter High School

• Cole Mendoza of Maumelle from Maumelle Charter High School

• Lukuz Rodriguez of Maumelle from Maumelle Charter High School

• Jonah Fuller of Maumelle from Maumelle Charter High School

• Dallas Quast of Maumelle from Maumelle Charter High School

• Braeden Perkins of Maumelle from Maumelle Charter High School

• Mitchell Knox of North Little Rock from eStem High School

• Walter Wenger of North Little Rock from North Little Rock CofE

• Santy Solares-Vazquez of North Little Rock from North Little Rock CofE

• Austin Sartain of North Little Rock from North Little Rock High School

• Luka Torres of Sherwood from North Little Rock High School

• Mandrell Howell Jr. of Sherwood from Sylvan Hills High School

• Aj Reyes of Sherwood from Sylvan Hills High School

• Spencer Bryant of North Little Rock from Arkansas School for Mathematics, Sciences, and the Arts

• James Galloway of Maumelle from Little Rock Christian

• Evan Dziadek of Maumelle from Little Rock Christian

• Trey Dodson of Maumelle from Little Rock Christian

• Demetrius Battle of North Little Rock from Joe T. Robinson High School

• Jalil Jeanpierre of Sherwood from Lisa Academy North High School

• Ian Parrett of Sherwood from Conway Christian High School

• Quaid Hairston of Sherwood from Little Rock Central

• Ben Robinson of North Little Rock from Little Rock Central

During the week, these local students will be assigned to a political party, city and county. Working alongside other delegates, they will help build a mock government from the ground up by running for office, drafting and debating legislation, addressing community challenges and engaging with constituents. The program’s guiding principle, “Democracy Depends on Me,” encourages students to understand civic responsibility not as an abstract idea, but as something they practice firsthand.

“Arkansas Boys State is designed for young men who are ready to step forward, challenge themselves and think deeply about how they can serve their communities,” said Lloyd Jackson, executive director of Arkansas Boys State. “The nomination of these students reflects the confidence others have in their character, leadership potential and commitment to making a difference.”

In addition to the government simulation, delegates participate in leadership discussions, real-world instructional tracks, recreation, political rallies, keynote lectures and question-and-answer sessions with business, civic, political and social leaders. Students also experience college life by living in residence halls, eating in campus dining facilities and taking part in a full schedule of activities throughout the week.

“Students leave Arkansas Boys State with more than a stronger understanding of government,” Jackson said. “They leave with new friendships, greater confidence in communicating their views and a deeper sense of responsibility to lead for the common good. We are excited for these students to be part of this life-changing experience as they represent their schools and communities.”

Arkansas Boys State has developed more than 60,000 alumni since its founding in 1940, including local, state, national and international leaders. Past participants include President Bill Clinton, former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee, former White House Chiefs of Staff Mack McLarty and Jack Watson Jr., U.S. Sens. Tom Cotton and John Boozman, and Arkansas Chief Justice John Dan Kemp.

These local students will be guided by more than 70 volunteer staff members from across the country who return each summer to mentor and support Arkansas Boys State students. The volunteer staff includes college students and professionals with experience in education, public service, business, law, journalism, government and other fields.

More information about Arkansas Boys State is available at arboysstate.org.

Share

Sports

Upcoming Travs games

Six-game homestand against Springfield

Today, 6:35 p.m.

• $3 Thursday: Enjoy an amazing value for the whole family and the best patio in Central Arkansas! Get $3 General Admission or Beer Garden tickets at a WinChoice Box Office Window. Plus, feed the whole crew for less with select concession items for $3 each!

Friday, 7:05 p.m.

• Fireworks Friday: Presented By Bank OZK

Saturday, 6:35 p.m.

• Cal Raleigh Bobblecard Giveaway: Presented By Hardee’s | First 1,000 Fans (one item per person)

• Post-Game Fireworks

Sunday, 6:05 p.m.

• Post-Game Fireworks

• Baseball BINGO: Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Operation: Military Appreciation: Service Members get $3 off General Admission and Field Reserved tickets by presenting a Military ID (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window) | Presented By Mid-South Ford Dealers

Six-game homestand against Frisco

Tuesday, May 26, 6:35 p.m.

• Dog Day: Human fans can get $3 Berm tickets by bringing their dog to the game (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window). NOTE: Dogs are only allowed in the Berm areas | Presented By Hollywood Feed

Wednesday, May 27, 6:35 p.m.

• Dog Day: Human fans can get $3 Berm tickets by bringing their dog to the game (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window). NOTE: Dogs are only allowed in the Berm areas | Presented By Hollywood Feed

Thursday, May 28, 6:35 p.m.

• $3 Thursday: Enjoy an amazing value for the whole family and the best patio in Central Arkansas! Get $3 General Admission or Beer Garden tickets at a WinChoice Box Office Window. Plus, feed the whole crew for less with select concession items for $3 each!

• Singles Night: Let the Travs help turn a single into a double! Join us at the ballpark for a pre-game “Singles Mingle” event.

Friday, May 29, 7:05 p.m.

• Fireworks Friday: Presented By Baldwin & Shell Construction

Saturday, May 30, 6:05 p.m.

• Faith & Family Night: The perfect night for a church group outing! | Presented By Hickingbotham Investments

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank

Sunday, May 31, 1:35 p.m.

• Fiesta de Diamantes: The Travs will take the field as the Diamantes de Arkansas in salute of Hispanic Heritage!

• Kids Baseball Clinic: Kids 13 and under are invited to join Travs players on field for a baseball clinic starting at noon! Instruction will last approximately 45 minutes. | Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank

• Baseball BINGO: Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Operation: Military Appreciation: Service Members get $3 off General Admission and Field Reserved tickets by presenting a Military ID (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window) | Presented By Mid-South Ford Dealers

• Family Sunday Deal: Get $3 General Admission tickets by presenting a physical or digital church bulletin (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window).

Leave a comment

Health

Pandemic deaths unknown

The state Department of Health didn’t update the state’s dashboard this week, again, and deaths still total 532 for the past year. There’s no tab created for 2025 either and the virus has now killed 14,162 Arkansans since the pandemic began then. That would mean the pandemic death toll has now passed Marion’s 13,635 people, the state’s 29th largest city.

Covid toolkit

There’s now a one-stop shop to learn about vaccination sites and other Covid related information. Click here to learn more.

If you don’t want to get sick and die, there’s some things you can do:

• Get vaccinated

• Get boosted

• Wear a mask

• Avoid crowds

Subscribe if you like, pay if you can

Note to subscribers: An annual or monthly subscription is billed to your debit or credit card as ARKANSAS.SUBSTACK.COM and if you have questions, please email arkansas@substack.com. Thanks for reading and subscribing!

The Headlines

• MEETINGS: The Maumelle City Council will meet next Monday night at City Hall.

• EVENTS: They’re calling this Saturday, May 16, the busiest Saturday, May 16 in recent memory. OK, that was me, I’m the one calling it that but Saturday really is chock full of events and high school sports and high school graduations and for more, keep scrolling.

• SPORTS: State tournaments have begun for baseball, softball and soccer around the state this week.

  For brackets for each each click the link below:

  • Baseball

  • Softball

  • Boys soccer

  • Girls soccer

Subscribe if you like, pay if you can

Commencements set to start commencing

Graduation season has arrived and first up is Maumelle Charter High School.

That commencement will be this Friday and be held at the school’s gymnasium. It will start at 6:30 p.m. and is scheduled to end at 8:30 p.m.

Next up on the graduation calendar is Central Arkansas Christian. They’ll be having ceremonies starting at 2 p.m. this Sunday, and it will also be held at the school.

North Little Rock High School and the various affiliated campuses will be having graduation on Monday, May 18 and it will be held at the Jack Stephens Center on the UALR campus.. The ceremony will start at 6 p.m.

Last up is Maumelle High School and they will also be having graduation ceremonies at the Jack Stephens Center and the time slot is 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 23.

It is one of four graduation ceremonies for the high schools in the Pulaski County Special School District with the others being:

• Sylvan Hills, 6:30 p.m., Friday, May 22

• Mills, 9 a.m., Saturday, May 23

• Joe T. Robinson, 5:30 p.m., Saturday, May 23

For more information or to watch the PCSSD graduation ceremonies the day of, click here.

Subscribe now

McGill honored for service to Academics Plus

Over 200 friends, family and staff of Academics Plus Charter Schools recently gathered to salute and say farewell to CEO Rob McGill who will end his 33+ years in education and 16 years with Academics Plus Charter Schools Inc. at the end of June.

Chief Operating Officer Kyron Jones has been selected to succeed McGill.

The event was held at Venue 10 in Maumelle and began with remarks from APCSI Board Chairperson Adria Conklin, followed by an Arkansas House of Representative presentation recognizing McGill for his service. A proclamation was presented to McGill by state Reps. Brandon Achor and David Ray, both of Maumelle.

On behalf of the Board of Trustees, Secretary Daren Sweat presented outdoor enthusiast McGill with a shotgun and then unveiled an architect’s rendering of Maumelle Charter Elementary School announcing that the elementary campus will be named the “Rob McGill Elementary Building” in honor of his service. The signage is expected to be added to the building this fall.

Katie Johnson, Principal of Maumelle Charter High School, presented a special tribute video produced by the EAST students from the high school. The video featured testimonials from staff and students.

The evening concluded with McGill sharing humorous memories and summarizing his career in education. He then called upon incoming CEO Kyron Jones who thanked McGill for his leadership and mentorship dating back almost 20 years. Jones was then presented a CEO nameplate by Board Chair, Adria Conklin.

The event was sponsored by Nabholz Construction, Lewis Architects Engineers, Centennial Bank, Crews and Associates, First Security Bank and MK Distribution.

Subscribe now

Mailbag

Letter to the editor: Update on Tree Clearing and Traffic Light at Riverland

Tree Clearing

If you will remember, the City previously cited Cypress Bay Development LLC (owner of CCA Phase 15) for illegal tree clearing across from Riverland, with an initial District Court appearance on January 6. The developer pleaded not guilty, and trial was scheduled for April 7 at 2:30 p.m. A negotiated settlement involving replanting and fines was being anticipated.

Meanwhile, City Planning Director Scott Grummer drafted a strengthened vegetation ordinance designed to prevent similar violations. Although the Planning Commission advanced it to the City Council, the Council voted it down. Instead, Council Member Chad Gardner introduced legislation eliminating tree‑buffer requirements for commercial development and effectively absolving Cypress Bay of its violation.

In my last update to you on March 14th, the Council was due to act on Councilman Gardner’s legislation at the March 16th Council Meeting, and based on Mr. Gardner’s historically pro developer stance at the Council and the recent tendency for other Council Members to simply go along, I was not at all optimistic that the Council would turn down Mr. Gardner’s legislation. At the March 16 Council meeting, Gardner’s legislation did, in fact, pass 5–3. Council Members Tierney and Shinn voted no, and Council Member Booker’s absence counted as a third no. Council Members Williams, Holt, Gronwald, and Wesley supported the measure. The ordinance is expected to take effect 60 days after passage, meaning remaining trees outside the highway right‑of‑way could be removed by mid‑ to late May.

Curb Cut and Traffic Light at Riverland Drive

Earlier this year, both the Planning Commission and City Council approved a curb cut and traffic light at Riverland Drive (which would benefit the developer involved with the tree issue). This was despite resident objections at meetings and a petition of roughly 300 Maumelle residents objecting to such submitted by Turtle Creek POA President Genoveva Gilbert.

The project now requires approval from the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT). ARDOT’s review process evaluates need, safety, and traffic‑flow impacts, so approval is not a rubber stamp. Residents wishing to add their names to the petition may contact Ms. Gilbert at GenovevaGilbert@sbcglobal.net. The more people voicing opposition, the better.

Summary: Recent actions by the Mayor and City Council reflect limited interest in preserving Maumelle’s tree canopy or maintaining safe, uninterrupted traffic flow on Maumelle Boulevard. Also, after more than a decade without new apartment construction, developers are now proposing high‑density apartments and townhomes across remaining open areas. For residents concerned about home values, quality of life, and the City’s direction, the November elections present an opportunity for change. If you’ve ever considered running for office, and with current officials seemingly out of touch with voters, this would be a very good time to do so! I’m glad to help with the simple process of getting on the ballot.

Steve Mosley, Former Ward 1 Council Member (2012–2024) Maumelle, Arkansas

Share

Notices

CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION VACANCY

The Maumelle City Council is accepting resumes from residents interested in serving on the Maumelle Civil Service Commission. One appointment will be made to fill a six-year term ending May 31, 2032.

Applicants must be a qualified elector and a resident of Maumelle for more than three years. Applicants must not hold or be a candidate for any political office and must not be connected in any official capacity with any political party or organization.

Resumes should be submitted to the City Clerk/Treasurer’s Office, 550 Edgewood Drive, Maumelle, Arkansas 72113, no later than 4 p.m. on May 13, 2026. Email submissions will also be accepted at cityclek@maumelle.org.

Applicants will be interviewed by the City Council at its regular meeting on May 18 at 6 p.m. at City Hall. The appointment will be made following the interviews.

PUBLIC FACILITIES BOARD VACANCY

The Maumelle Public Facilities Board is accepting resumes from residents interested in serving on the Board. One appointment will be made for a five-year term ending May 31, 2031. Applicants must be residents of Maumelle.

Resumes should be submitted to the City Clerk/Treasurer’s Office, 550 Edgewood Drive, Maumelle, AR 72113, no later than 4 p.m. on May 13. Email submissions will also be accepted at cityclerk@maumelle.org.

All resumes will be reviewed by the Public Facilities Board. A recommendation will then be made to the Mayor and City Council for appointment. The appointment will be announced at the regularly scheduled City Council meeting on May 18.

For additional information, please contact Cheryl Schulterman at 501-258-7129.

Contact Maumelle City Clerk Tina Timmons at 501-851- 2500 if you have additional questions

Leave a comment

North Little Rock Animal Shelter to have free clinic this Friday

A free Spay & Neuter Canine Clinic will be held this Friday, May 15, at the North Little Rock Animal Shelter, located at 1 Championship Drive,

Requirements and Guidelines:

• Proof of vaccination is required

• No aggressive dogs

• No dogs over 70 pounds

• No dogs over 7 years old

• No cats

To register, please scan the QR code on the flyer below. For questions, email spayneuter@lasthopek9.org.

Registration is required to reserve a spot. Walk‑ins will not be accepted.

General auditions this Saturday at the Argenta Contemporary Theatre.

The Argenta Contemporary Theatre will be having general auditions this Saturday.

There’s two time slots for auditions. They are:

• Youth Audition, 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

• Adult Audition, 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. with movement and dance from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. and acting and singing from 3:15 p.m. to 5 p.m.

People are encouraged to participate, regardless of experience level. Wear clothing that allows for ease of movement.

If you’re unable to attend in person, self-tape submissions are also accepted.

For more information, click here.

Old Mill to celebrate 50 years as a City Park this Saturday

This Saturday, May 16, from 1 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., the Old Mill will celebrate being a North Little Rock Park for fifty years and party like it’s 1976.

Sponsored by Friends of the Old Mill, the City of North Little Rock, North Little Rock Tourism, and the Old Mill Master Gardeners, the public is invited to a party at the Old Mill (T. R. Pugh Memorial Park, 3800 Lakeshore Drive, North Little Rock). Visitors can expect refreshments, giveaways, children’s activities, tours, and talks throughout the afternoon.

Visitors will have a chance to learn what the Old Mill was like in 1976 and how it has improved in the fifty years since then. Visitors are encouraged to dress in 1976-era clothes. Donations to Friends of the Old Mill, a non-profit supporting the Old Mill, will be accepted.

Around 2 p.m., North Little Rock Mayor Terry Hartwick, along with other city officials, will speak and assist with a tree planting in memory of the late Sandra Taylor Smith, former Director of the North Little Rock History Commission and founding member of Friends of the Old Mill.

Other talks that afternoon will address North Little Rock in the 1970s, facts you might not know about the Old Mill, how and why the Old Mill became a city park, the artwork of Dionicio Rodriguez at the Old Mill, and the gardens at the Old Mill.

North Little Tourism will sell Old Mill items, and a portion of the proceeds will go to Friends of the Old Mill for improvements to the park.

Street parking is available near the park, and additional parking, with a shuttle, is available at the Lakewood Property Owners Association park at 4500 Lakeshore Drive. Signs will direct visitors.

Share

Sports

High school baseball, softball state finals to air live

Arkansas TV (nee Arkansas PBS and before that AETN) will broadcast this year’s high school softball and baseball state championships live from Hot Springs.

The Arkansas high school baseball and softball state championships will air live on Arkansas TV Sports at the following times:

• Game 1, baseball – Thursday, May 21, at 10 a.m.

• Game 2, softball – Thursday, May 21, at 1 p.m.

• Game 3, baseball – Thursday, May 21, at 4 p.m.

• Game 4, softball – Thursday, May 21, at 7 p.m.

• Game 5, softball – Friday, May 22, at 10 a.m.

• Game 6, baseball – Friday, May 22, at 1 p.m.

• Game 7, softball – Friday, May 22, at 4 p.m.

• Game 8, baseball – Friday, May 22, at 7 p.m.

• Game 9, baseball – Saturday, May 23, at 10 a.m.

• Game 10, softball – Saturday, May 23, at 1 p.m.

• Game 11, baseball – Saturday, May 23, at 4 p.m.

• Game 12, softball – Saturday, May 23, at 7 p.m.

Funding for Arkansas TV Sports is provided by the Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas, the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) and Image One. Arkansas TV also recognizes AAA’s sponsors for the state high school basketball finals, including Centennial Bank, Arkansas Farm Bureau and Everett Buick GMC.

Additional information is available at arkansastv.gov/sports.

Upcoming Travs games

At Northwest Arkansas, May 12-17

Six-game homestand against Springfield

Tuesday, May 19, 6:35 p.m.

• Dog Day: Human fans can get $3 Berm tickets by bringing their dog to the game (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window). NOTE: Dogs are only allowed in the Berm areas | Presented By Hollywood Feed

Wednesday, May 20, 6:35 p.m.

• Dog Day: Human fans can get $3 Berm tickets by bringing their dog to the game (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window). NOTE: Dogs are only allowed in the Berm areas | Presented By Hollywood Feed

Thursday, May 21, 6:35 p.m.

• $3 Thursday: Enjoy an amazing value for the whole family and the best patio in Central Arkansas! Get $3 General Admission or Beer Garden tickets at a WinChoice Box Office Window. Plus, feed the whole crew for less with select concession items for $3 each!

Friday, May 22, 7:05 p.m.

• Fireworks Friday: Presented By Bank OZK

Saturday, May 23, 6:35 p.m.

• Cal Raleigh Bobblecard Giveaway: Presented By Hardee’s | First 1,000 Fans (one item per person)

• Post-Game Fireworks

Sunday, May 24, 6:05 p.m.

• Post-Game Fireworks

• Baseball BINGO: Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Operation: Military Appreciation: Service Members get $3 off General Admission and Field Reserved tickets by presenting a Military ID (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window) | Presented By Mid-South Ford Dealers

Six-game homestand against Frisco

Tuesday, May 26, 6:35 p.m.

• Dog Day: Human fans can get $3 Berm tickets by bringing their dog to the game (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window). NOTE: Dogs are only allowed in the Berm areas | Presented By Hollywood Feed

Wednesday, May 27, 6:35 p.m.

• Dog Day: Human fans can get $3 Berm tickets by bringing their dog to the game (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window). NOTE: Dogs are only allowed in the Berm areas | Presented By Hollywood Feed

Thursday, May 28, 6:35 p.m.

• $3 Thursday: Enjoy an amazing value for the whole family and the best patio in Central Arkansas! Get $3 General Admission or Beer Garden tickets at a WinChoice Box Office Window. Plus, feed the whole crew for less with select concession items for $3 each!

• Singles Night: Let the Travs help turn a single into a double! Join us at the ballpark for a pre-game “Singles Mingle” event.

Friday, May 29, 7:05 p.m.

• Fireworks Friday: Presented By Baldwin & Shell Construction

Saturday, May 30, 6:05 p.m.

• Faith & Family Night: The perfect night for a church group outing! | Presented By Hickingbotham Investments

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank

Sunday, May 31, 1:35 p.m.

• Fiesta de Diamantes: The Travs will take the field as the Diamantes de Arkansas in salute of Hispanic Heritage!

• Kids Baseball Clinic: Kids 13 and under are invited to join Travs players on field for a baseball clinic starting at noon! Instruction will last approximately 45 minutes. | Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank

• Baseball BINGO: Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Operation: Military Appreciation: Service Members get $3 off General Admission and Field Reserved tickets by presenting a Military ID (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window) | Presented By Mid-South Ford Dealers

• Family Sunday Deal: Get $3 General Admission tickets by presenting a physical or digital church bulletin (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window).

Leave a comment

Health

Pandemic deaths unknown

The state Department of Health didn’t update the state’s dashboard this week, again, and deaths still total 532 for the past year. There’s no tab created for 2025 either and the virus has now killed 14,162 Arkansans since the pandemic began then. That would mean the pandemic death toll has now passed Marion’s 13,635 people, the state’s 29th largest city.

Covid toolkit

There’s now a one-stop shop to learn about vaccination sites and other Covid related information. Click here to learn more.

If you don’t want to get sick and die, there’s some things you can do:

• Get vaccinated

• Get boosted

• Wear a mask

• Avoid crowds

Subscribe if you like, pay if you can

Note to subscribers: An annual or monthly subscription is billed to your debit or credit card as ARKANSAS.SUBSTACK.COM and if you have questions, please email arkansas@substack.com. Thanks for reading and subscribing!

The Headlines

• MEETINGS: The North Little Rock School Board will have a special call meeting and workshop at 5:30 p.m. tonight and the meeting is open to the public, and will also be livestreamed on the district’s YouTube page.. The North Little Rock City Council will meet next Monday night at City Hall.

• EVENTS: The North Little Rock Mayor’s Youth Council is hosting a “Suds for Scholarships” car wash and garage sale from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 9, at McGee Park in the Lakewood Pool parking lot, 701 Crestwood Road, North Little Rock. A groundbreaking is to be held for the atg Pavilion in downtown North Little Rock. It will be held at 2 p.m. on Monday at the city’s Argenta Plaza. For more, keep scrolling.

  You’re invited

  See below for more.

  

• SOMETHING TO READ: Care about Stephen Colbert? If the answer is yes, read this from The Hollywood Reporter. Just a terrific piece of reporting. Click here to read.

Subscribe if you like, pay if you can

City of Maumelle honored by OpenGov

The city of Maumelle recently received the 2026 High-Performace Governemnt Award from OpenGov at a conference in Chicago.

Mayor Caleb Norris, above, accepted the award on the city’s behalf.

“We’ve been very intentional about building the systems that enable local government to perform at a high level,” Norris said in a press release after getting questions about the event from ArkansasNewsroom.com “That work isn’t always visible, but it shows up in how we handle growth, stay coordinated and deliver results. This recognition reflects the level our team is operating at and the standard we’re building in Maumelle.”

OpenGov is a system used by local and state governments around the country to manage finance operations as well as other internal processes and workflows.

Maumelle was honored for the work done by the city’s Planning and Economic Development Department’s work as it modernized as the city went annual permitting revenue of $2,000 to $123,000 and included a transition from a paper-based system to a digital process that allowed real-time monitoring of a citywide fiber expansion.

That digital process allowed the city to “review applications, map excavation activity, conduct inspections in the field and track compliance in one system.”

“This was a real-world test of a system we had been building for several years,” said Scott Grummer, Director of Planning and Economic Development. “We were able to manage a record level of activity without losing visibility or control. Everything – from permitting to inspections to resident concerns – was tracked and handled in one place.”

Grummer said the updated process also allowed the city to better align its permitting structure with the scale of projects taking place. “And by moving to a linear-footage fee model, the city created a more accurate and consistent approach to managing excavation activity.”

In addition to Maumelle, other governmental entities honored include:

• The City of Arlington, Texas

• The City of Burnsville, Minnesota

• The City of Camarillo, California

• City of El Segundo, California

• The City of Kansas City, Missouri

• The City of Killeen, Texas

• The City of Kyle, Texas

• The City of Miami, Florida

• The County of Orange, California

• The City of Sandy Springs, Georgia

• The County of Walton, Florida

• Montgomery County, Pennsylvania

• Western Riverside Council of Governments, California: Transportation Department

Maumelle was, by far, the smallest city recognized by OpenGov.

“These organizations are setting the global standard for high-performance government,” said Thiago Sa Freire, CEO of OpenGov. “They are proving that when governments operate on a connected platform, they can deliver measurable outcomes at scale, without increasing resources.”

Subscribe now

Chamber helps local business grow through 75Strong

The Maumelle Area Chamber of Commerce is continuing its commitment to strengthening local businesses and entrepreneurs by helping connect chamber members to valuable growth resources through the 75Strong Business Building Program, led by Startup Junkie Consulting.

The Chamber is proud to support local entrepreneurs by ensuring they have access to tools, strategy, and expert guidance needed to scale and succeed. Through the Chamber’s Build Maumelle initiative, focused on entrepreneurship and small business development, the Chamber helped connect local businesses to this 24-week growth program designed to strengthen leadership, revenue systems, operations, and long-term strategy.

The Chamber is proud to recognize the following chamber and community members accepted into the program:

• Chad Gardner – Benefit Concepts of Arkansas

• Amanda Galbraith – Arkansas Property Management

• Stephanie Burnett – Palarm Creek Farms

• Christie Drake – Drake Window & Home Care

• Perryn Andrews – PGA Creative

• Ethan Andrews – Golden Oaks Development

• Micheal Strack - CustomXM

The 75Strong Business Building Program includes a comprehensive company diagnostic, biweekly virtual growth sessions, and expert office hours that help businesses address real barriers to growth. The curriculum focuses on seven critical areas including financial disciplines, revenue growth, organizational effectiveness, leadership development, operational systems, digital readiness, and innovation.

For Maumelle, the impact extends far beyond individual businesses. By investing in local entrepreneurs and small business owners, the Chamber is helping create stronger job opportunities, increased local spending, and long-term economic resilience for the community.

“At the Maumelle Area Chamber of Commerce, we believe strong small businesses create strong communities,” said Kellie Wall, President & CEO of the Maumelle Area Chamber of Commerce. “Through our Build Maumelle initiative, we are intentional about connecting our chamber members and entrepreneurs with resources that help them grow, create jobs, and contribute to the long-term success of our local economy. We are excited to see these businesses take advantage of this incredible opportunity.”

In addition to supporting businesses through this program, the Maumelle Area Chamber of Commerce continues to expand entrepreneurial programming through Build Maumelle by offering educational workshops, networking opportunities, and access to capital resources for local businesses.

“One of the things I’m most proud of in this cohort is watching community and economic developers put their learning into action by making sure local businesses aren’t left on the sidelines,” said Drew Smith. “There are real resources available to Arkansas companies right now, and local leaders are doing the work of making sure those resources reach the businesses that need them most.”

By combining leadership development with direct business support, programs like 75Strong are helping communities like Maumelle build stronger economies from the inside out.

Subscribe now

Groundbreaking to be Monday

The groundbreaking of the atg Pavilion will be at 1 p.m. on Monday, May 11 at Argenta Plaza in downtown North Little Rock.

The pavilion., inspired by renowned architect E. Fay Jones’ iconic Thorncrown Chapel, is described as a “beautiful, innovative addition” to North Little Rock.

It will feature 21 large bronze sculptures of iconic musicians from the state and will include Sister Rosetta Tharpe, Al Green, and Johnny Cash.

The atg Pavilion represents a bold cultural investment — one that honors Arkansas’ historic influence on American music while creating a dynamic, place-based public art experience,” said Karen Trevino, President and CEO of North Little Rock Tourism. “It reflects North Little Rock’s commitment to expanding cultural infrastructure, activating public spaces, and strengthening a shared sense of identity and pride.”

Scott Landers, Founder and CEO of ATG, added, “the atg Pavilion is a great example of what can happen when vision, collaboration, and community commitment come together. We’re proud to play a role in something that will serve this city for generations. Ruth and I truly appreciate the partnership, leadership, and shared belief in what North Little Rock can be.”

The public is encouraged to attend and celebrate the groundbreaking on Monday.

Share

Notices

CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION VACANCY

The Maumelle City Council is accepting resumes from residents interested in serving on the Maumelle Civil Service Commission. One appointment will be made to fill a six-year term ending May 31, 2032.

Applicants must be a qualified elector and a resident of Maumelle for more than three years. Applicants must not hold or be a candidate for any political office and must not be connected in any official capacity with any political party or organization.

Resumes should be submitted to the City Clerk/Treasurer’s Office, 550 Edgewood Drive, Maumelle, Arkansas 72113, no later than 4 p.m. on May 13, 2026. Email submissions will also be accepted at cityclek@maumelle.org.

Applicants will be interviewed by the City Council at its regular meeting on May 18 at 6 p.m. at City Hall. The appointment will be made following the interviews.

PUBLIC FACILITIES BOARD VACANCY

The Maumelle Public Facilities Board is accepting resumes from residents interested in serving on the Board. One appointment will be made for a five-year term ending May 31, 2031. Applicants must be residents of Maumelle.

Resumes should be submitted to the City Clerk/Treasurer’s Office, 550 Edgewood Drive, Maumelle, AR 72113, no later than 4 p.m. on May 13. Email submissions will also be accepted at cityclerk@maumelle.org.

All resumes will be reviewed by the Public Facilities Board. A recommendation will then be made to the Mayor and City Council for appointment. The appointment will be announced at the regularly scheduled City Council meeting on May 18.

For additional information, please contact Cheryl Schulterman at 501-258-7129.

Contact Maumelle City Clerk Tina Timmons at 501-851- 2500 if you have additional questions

Leave a comment

Lender Quick-Connect is May 13 at UA Little Rock

Arkansas entrepreneurs looking to fund a new business, ongoing operations, expansion or acquisition can fast-track their search at Lender Quick-Connect: Find Your Funder.

The Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center will host the free event on May 13, from 1 to 4 p.m., at the Reynolds Business Center on the campus of the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.

In a single afternoon, aspiring and established business owners can connect with multiple Arkansas lenders in a fast-paced “speed dating” format.

Participants will be matched with lender appointments based on key business details such as their industry, business stage, credit history and project scope.

The event is designed to help entrepreneurs navigate the funding landscape and build relationships with funders who have a proven track record of small business lending.

Attendees can also:

• Confer with credit counseling services to discuss financial readiness

• Engage with ASBTDC business consultants and Small Business Administration representatives

• Get expert tips on crafting a compelling funding pitch

“Outside of personal savings or contributions from friends and family, a loan is the most common way to get capital for launching or growing a business,” said ASBTDC State Director Laura Fine. “Lender Quick-Connect is an excellent opportunity to pitch a project to several potential funding partners in a short period of time and explore financing options available through banks, credit unions, microlenders and Community Development Financial Institutions.”

Participating lending institutions include ACC Capital, Arkansas Federal Credit Union, Arvest Bank, Chase Bank, Communities Unlimited, First Security Bank, FNBC, FORGE Community Loan Fund, Hope Credit Union, Regions Bank, Southern Bancorp Bank, Southern Bancorp Community Partners, Stone Bank and U.S. Bank.

Pre-registration is required. To reserve a spot, go to tinyurl.com/3vthe5hr or contact Laterika Tooks-Staton at 501-804-4530 or lstooks@ualr.edu.

Through its offices around the state, the ASBTDC offers no-cost services and resources for Arkansas entrepreneurs and small businesses. For more information, call 800-862-2040 or visit asbtdc.org.

Share

Sports

High school baseball, softball state finals to air live

Arkansas TV (nee Arkansas PBS and before that AETN) will broadcast this year’s high school softball and baseball state championships live from Hot Springs.

The Arkansas high school baseball and softball state championships will air live on Arkansas TV Sports at the following times:

• Game 1, baseball – Thursday, May 21, at 10 a.m.

• Game 2, softball – Thursday, May 21, at 1 p.m.

• Game 3, baseball – Thursday, May 21, at 4 p.m.

• Game 4, softball – Thursday, May 21, at 7 p.m.

• Game 5, softball – Friday, May 22, at 10 a.m.

• Game 6, baseball – Friday, May 22, at 1 p.m.

• Game 7, softball – Friday, May 22, at 4 p.m.

• Game 8, baseball – Friday, May 22, at 7 p.m.

• Game 9, baseball – Saturday, May 23, at 10 a.m.

• Game 10, softball – Saturday, May 23, at 1 p.m.

• Game 11, baseball – Saturday, May 23, at 4 p.m.

• Game 12, softball – Saturday, May 23, at 7 p.m.

Funding for Arkansas TV Sports is provided by the Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas, the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) and Image One. Arkansas TV also recognizes AAA’s sponsors for the state high school basketball finals, including Centennial Bank, Arkansas Farm Bureau and Everett Buick GMC.

Additional information is available at arkansastv.gov/sports.

Upcoming Travs games

Six-game homestand against Tulsa

Today, 6:35 p.m.

• Mad Mallards Weekend: Join us in celebration of Central Arkansas’ obsession with waterfowl hunting! | Presented By Arkansas Ducks Unlimited

• $3 Thursday: Enjoy an amazing value for the whole family and the best patio in Central Arkansas! Get $3 General Admission or Beer Garden tickets at a WinChoice Box Office Window. Plus, feed the whole crew for less with select concession items for $3 each!

Friday, doubleheader, first pitch is 5:05 p.m. with the second game to follow

• Mad Mallards Weekend: Join us in celebration of Central Arkansas’ obsession with waterfowl hunting! | Presented By Arkansas Ducks Unlimited

• Fireworks Friday

Saturday, May 9, 4:05 p.m.

• Mad Mallards Weekend: Join us in celebration of Central Arkansas’ obsession with waterfowl hunting! | Presented By Arkansas Ducks Unlimited

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank

• Trucker Hat Giveaway: Celebrate the Travs’ 125th Anniversary with some limited edition headwear! | Presented By Snapple | First 1,000 Fans (one item per person)

Sunday, May 10, 1:35 p.m.

• Mad Mallards Weekend: Join us in celebration of Central Arkansas’ obsession with waterfowl hunting! | Presented By Arkansas Ducks Unlimited

• Kids Baseball Clinic: Kids 13 and under are invited to join Travs players on field for a baseball clinic starting at noon! Instruction will last approximately 45 minutes. | Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank

• Baseball BINGO: Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Operation: Military Appreciation: Service Members get $3 off General Admission and Field Reserved tickets by presenting a Military ID (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window) | Presented By Mid-South Ford Dealers

• Family Sunday Deal: Get $3 General Admission tickets by presenting a physical or digital church bulletin (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window)

At Northwest Arkansas, May 12-17

Six-game homestand against Springfield

Tuesday, May 19, 6:35 p.m.

• Dog Day: Human fans can get $3 Berm tickets by bringing their dog to the game (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window). NOTE: Dogs are only allowed in the Berm areas | Presented By Hollywood Feed

Wednesday, May 20, 6:35 p.m.

• Dog Day: Human fans can get $3 Berm tickets by bringing their dog to the game (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window). NOTE: Dogs are only allowed in the Berm areas | Presented By Hollywood Feed

Thursday, May 21, 6:35 p.m.

• $3 Thursday: Enjoy an amazing value for the whole family and the best patio in Central Arkansas! Get $3 General Admission or Beer Garden tickets at a WinChoice Box Office Window. Plus, feed the whole crew for less with select concession items for $3 each!

Friday, May 22, 7:05 p.m.

• Fireworks Friday: Presented By Bank OZK

Saturday, May 23, 6:35 p.m.

• Cal Raleigh Bobblecard Giveaway: Presented By Hardee’s | First 1,000 Fans (one item per person)

• Post-Game Fireworks

Sunday, May 24, 6:05 p.m.

• Post-Game Fireworks

• Baseball BINGO: Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Operation: Military Appreciation: Service Members get $3 off General Admission and Field Reserved tickets by presenting a Military ID (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window) | Presented By Mid-South Ford Dealers

Six-game homestand against Frisco

Tuesday, May 26, 6:35 p.m.

• Dog Day: Human fans can get $3 Berm tickets by bringing their dog to the game (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window). NOTE: Dogs are only allowed in the Berm areas | Presented By Hollywood Feed

Wednesday, May 27, 6:35 p.m.

• Dog Day: Human fans can get $3 Berm tickets by bringing their dog to the game (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window). NOTE: Dogs are only allowed in the Berm areas | Presented By Hollywood Feed

Thursday, May 28, 6:35 p.m.

• $3 Thursday: Enjoy an amazing value for the whole family and the best patio in Central Arkansas! Get $3 General Admission or Beer Garden tickets at a WinChoice Box Office Window. Plus, feed the whole crew for less with select concession items for $3 each!

• Singles Night: Let the Travs help turn a single into a double! Join us at the ballpark for a pre-game “Singles Mingle” event.

Friday, May 29, 7:05 p.m.

• Fireworks Friday: Presented By Baldwin & Shell Construction

Saturday, May 30, 6:05 p.m.

• Faith & Family Night: The perfect night for a church group outing! | Presented By Hickingbotham Investments

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank

Sunday, May 31, 1:35 p.m.

• Fiesta de Diamantes: The Travs will take the field as the Diamantes de Arkansas in salute of Hispanic Heritage!

• Kids Baseball Clinic: Kids 13 and under are invited to join Travs players on field for a baseball clinic starting at noon! Instruction will last approximately 45 minutes. | Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank

• Baseball BINGO: Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Operation: Military Appreciation: Service Members get $3 off General Admission and Field Reserved tickets by presenting a Military ID (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window) | Presented By Mid-South Ford Dealers

• Family Sunday Deal: Get $3 General Admission tickets by presenting a physical or digital church bulletin (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window).

Leave a comment

Health

Pandemic deaths unknown

The state Department of Health didn’t update the state’s dashboard this week, again, and deaths still total 532 for the past year. There’s no tab created for 2025 either and the virus has now killed 14,162 Arkansans since the pandemic began then. That would mean the pandemic death toll has now passed Marion’s 13,635 people, the state’s 29th largest city.

Covid toolkit

There’s now a one-stop shop to learn about vaccination sites and other Covid related information. Click here to learn more.

If you don’t want to get sick and die, there’s some things you can do:

• Get vaccinated

• Get boosted

• Wear a mask

• Avoid crowds

Subscribe if you like, pay if you can

Note to subscribers: An annual or monthly subscription is billed to your debit or credit card as ARKANSAS.SUBSTACK.COM and if you have questions, please email arkansas@substack.com. Thanks for reading and subscribing!

The Headlines

• MEETINGS: The Maumelle City Council will meet next Monday night at City Hall.

• EVENTS: North Little Rock will be having a spring garden party and Earth Day celebration starting at 5 p.m. today at the North Heights Community Center. Things to do there include: Community gardening, learn gardening tips, family-centered activities and celebrate this very fragile planet we all live on. The event is, of course, free and is scheduled to last until 7 p.m. For more details, click the flyer below.

• SOMETHING TO READ: Concerned about the tennis situation at the University of Arkansas? Well, Matt Brown at the Extra Points newsletter did an extremely deep dive into the economics, as well as some very interesting accounting, into the life of the athletics department in Fayetteville. To read it, click here.

Subscribe if you like, pay if you can

Spring Dance concert is tonight

The North Little Rock High School Theatre Arts Department will present its spring dance concert tonight, April 30 at 6:30 p.m. featuring performances by the school’s Dance Troupe, Theatre Dance I-IV classes, and participants from the Preschool/Elementary Dance Workshop in the new North Little Rock High School Performing Arts Center (201 West 22nd St.).

Tickets are $6 for students/seniors and $8 for adults.

First Farmers Market is Friday in Maumelle

Maumelle’s new Millwood Station will host the first Farmers Market of the year this Friday. It is scheduled to start at 4 p.m. and last until 7 p.m.

The Farmers Market will be held on the first Friday of each month starting in May. Friday, for the calendar adverse, is May 1. The Farmers Markets will continue through October. Additional dates may be added based on the interest of shoppers and vendors.

Splash!

The Burns Park Splash Pad opens this Friday at 10 a.m. and will close at 7 p.m. The city of North Little Rock will have the Splash Pad open Friday through Sunday at the hours above and after May 25, the Splash Pad will be open every day from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Also, choo-choo as the Funland Train at Burns Park will start running this Saturday at 10 a.m. and running through 7 p.m. And will also be open on Sunday on the same schedule. Train rides begin at the top of each hour.

Subscribe now

Notices

CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION VACANCY

The Maumelle City Council is accepting resumes from residents interested in serving on the Maumelle Civil Service Commission. One appointment will be made to fill a six-year term ending May 31, 2032.

Applicants must be a qualified elector and a resident of Maumelle for more than three years. Applicants must not hold or be a candidate for any political office and must not be connected in any official capacity with any political party or organization.

Resumes should be submitted to the City Clerk/Treasurer’s Office, 550 Edgewood Drive, Maumelle, Arkansas 72113, no later than 4 p.m. on May 13, 2026. Email submissions will also be accepted at cityclek@maumelle.org.

Applicants will be interviewed by the City Council at its regular meeting on May 18 at 6 p.m. at City Hall. The appointment will be made following the interviews.

PUBLIC FACILITIES BOARD VACANCY

The Maumelle Public Facilities Board is accepting resumes from residents interested in serving on the Board. One appointment will be made for a five-year term ending May 31, 2031. Applicants must be residents of Maumelle.

Resumes should be submitted to the City Clerk/Treasurer’s Office, 550 Edgewood Drive, Maumelle, AR 72113, no later than 4 p.m. on May 13. Email submissions will also be accepted at cityclerk@maumelle.org.

All resumes will be reviewed by the Public Facilities Board. A recommendation will then be made to the Mayor and City Council for appointment. The appointment will be announced at the regularly scheduled City Council meeting on May 18.

For additional information, please contact Cheryl Schulterman at 501-258-7129.

Contact Maumelle City Clerk Tina Timmons at 501-851- 2500 if you have additional questions

Share

Balancing Motherhood and Medicine: Kadeshia Cooper reaches nursing milestone

For Kadeshia Cooper, above, the road to becoming a nurse has been anything but easy. From raising a child as a single mom to balancing long clinical hours and coursework, the North Little Rock native relied on determination and perseverance to reach this milestone.

Cooper will earn her Associate of Science in Nursing from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock in May. She earned an associate’s degree in liberal arts and sciences from Pulaski Technical College in May 2024.

Cooper followed a strategic academic path to achieve her nursing degree.

“I did 2+2. I did two years of prerequisites at Pulaski Tech and the two-year nursing program at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock,” she explained. “I plan to complete the Bachelor of Science in Nursing by December 2026.”

Although nursing ultimately became her passion, Cooper said circumstances initially required her to think practically about her future.

“Becoming a mother at 18 motivated me to pursue a stable career, which led me to nursing,” she said. “During my journey, I developed a true passion for the field, and this experience has shaped both my career and who I am today.”

Beyond academics, Cooper managed parenting and household finances.

“Balancing school while raising a child and handling bills on my own made it even more challenging,” she said. “I spent long hours studying, and the library truly became a second home for my son and me. I am very thankful for the support I received along the way.”

She received an Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship and used resources such as the CARE Team, the Academic Challenge Scholarship, and the campus food pantry at UA Little Rock.

Her coursework and clinical experiences allowed her to develop practical nursing skills that strengthened her confidence in patient care. Throughout her college experience, Cooper said family support - especially from her big sister, Shacora Cooper - played a key role.

“She is like a second mother to me without the title, as well as a sister, friend, and my personal therapist,” she said.

During her time in college, Cooper has built community and celebrated personal milestones. She was on the Little Rock Dance Team during her first year of college.

“I enjoyed being at the games, being loud, and cheering on the basketball players,” she said. “My son also enjoyed coming with me to the games, which made the experience even more special.”

Cooper also pushed herself physically outside the classroom.

“I ran my first 10K in February at the Little Rock Marathon,” she said. “That was a big accomplishment for me, and it showed me that I can push myself to do things I did not think I could do.”

Cooper said graduating with her associate’s degree in nursing and later earning her bachelor’s will mark a historic moment.

“I hope I’ve created a cycle of education and financial stability that continues with my son and future generations,” she said.

After graduation, Cooper wants to spend more time with her son and involve him in activities he enjoys. She also plans to celebrate her accomplishment.

“My first plan is to take a vacation and get some rest, maybe even a week-long nap,” she said. “After that, I plan to work as a registered nurse in the operating room while also finishing my remaining bachelor’s coursework.”

Cooper said her university experience helped her prepare for professional success and personal growth.

“While going through nursing school, I was able to build meaningful connections with people and network,” she said. “I also had the opportunity to volunteer and gain valuable hands-on clinical skills. I learned how to be punctual, organized, and how to manage my time wisely.”

Cooper hopes her story encourages others to pursue their dreams despite obstacles.

“Everyone has a story or something in life that can hold them back, but I encourage people to find their purpose and stay determined,” she said. “Don’t make excuses for why you cannot do something, make reasons for why you should.”

With about 9,000 students and 100 programs, UA Little Rock offers learning, research, service, social and career opportunities that can only be found at a metropolitan university located in Arkansas’s capital city.

Single Parent Scholarship Fund makes impact in central Arkansas

The Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund raised $61,000 during its second annual Day of Giving on March 20, showing strong statewide support for single parents working toward a college degree.

This fundraising effort came as the organization awarded $659,600 in Spring 2026 scholarships to 453 single parents, helping student parents across 69 counties stay enrolled in college or trade school while supporting their families.

In Pulaski County, they awarded $124,400 in scholarships to 85 single parents this spring, including Tamira Watts, who is studying for her associate degree in radiography at University of Arkansas–Pulaski Technical College.

“This scholarship helped relieve the financial burden I had been carrying on my own,” Watts said. “It gave me a moment to breathe and the ability to focus more fully on my education instead of constantly worrying about finances. Because of this support, I was able to get ahead rather than just trying to keep up.”

The scholarships can be used for expenses that often stand between a single parent and graduation, including child care, transportation, housing, utilities, and school-related costs. The financial aid is paired with support services to help these nontraditional students successfully balance school, work, and parenting.

“Day of Giving showed how deeply Arkansans believe in the determination of single parents who are working to create a better future for their families,” said Jenn Morehead. “Every gift helps remove barriers that can keep a student parent from finishing school and moving into a career with family-supporting wages.”

This year’s Day of Giving exceeded the nonprofit’s $45,000 goal, and the campaign raised nearly twice as much as last year.

The fundraiser coincides with National Single Parent Day and brought together donors, volunteers, community partners, and local supporters across the state to invest in the success of single parent families.

For many recipients, that support means more than financial help. It means knowing someone believes in their future.

Maumelle City Council Member Christine Gronwald serves as the organization’s Chief Development Officer.

For more information, visit aspsf.org or contact Jen Lawrence at jlawrence@aspsf.org or 501-550-6304.

Subscribe now

Arkansas Women’s Hall of Fame names Tenth Class of Inductees

The Arkansas Women’s Hall of Fame has released the names of its tenth class of inductees — seven women who have made significant contributions to the state and their respective fields and stand as positive examples for women everywhere.

The inductees, who will be honored at a special ceremony on the evening of Thursday, Aug. 27, at the new North Little Rock Event Center, Centennial Bank Ballroom, in North Little Rock, are:

Contemporary:

• Cynthia East – Cynthia East founded Cynthia East Fabrics in 1977, growing it into a well-known and lasting business. She has been deeply involved in community service, with leadership roles in organizations such as the Winthrop Rockefeller Foundation, Camp Aldersgate, and the Junior League of Little Rock, and a strong commitment to Little Rock Public Schools. A breast cancer survivor, she has also supported others facing similar challenges.

• Marsha Martin – Marsha Martin is a creative product designer, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, and the founder of Onyx Brands, Inc., a leader in professional-quality beauty products since 1990. A dedicated philanthropist, she has served in leadership roles with organizations including the American Heart Association and remains active in University of Arkansas initiatives.

• Cynthia Nance – Cynthia E. Nance is Dean and the Nathan G. Gordon Professor of Law at the University of Arkansas School of Law, where she has served on the faculty since 1994 and led as dean in two terms. A dedicated leader and philanthropist, she has been honored with numerous lifetime achievement awards for her service, scholarship, and commitment to expanding access to legal education.

Historical:

• Sharon Allen (1944-2021) – Sharon Allen was a trailblazing leader in Arkansas’s health insurance industry, spending more than four decades with Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield. Beginning as a claims clerk in 1968, she rose through the ranks to become the company’s first female president in 2002.

• Phyllis Brandon (1935-2020) – Phyllis Dillaha Brandon was a pioneering Arkansas journalist who discovered her passion for writing early and earned a journalism degree from the University of Arkansas in 1957. In 1986, she founded the High Profile section of the Arkansas Democrat, where she spent more than two decades highlighting influential Arkansans. Widely honored for her impact, she left a lasting legacy in journalism, public service, and storytelling.

• Dorothy Caldwell (1935-2023) – Dorothy Reddell Caldwell was a pioneering leader in child nutrition, education, and community service whose work transformed school meal programs at every level. Beginning as a teacher and later serving as Director of Food and Nutrition in Lee County, she modernized school meal systems and expanded access to breakfast and healthier options. Widely honored for her impact, her legacy continues through the policies she shaped and the countless children she helped serve.

• Vada Sheid (1916-2008) – Vada Webb Sheid was a pioneering Arkansas legislator and the first woman to serve in both the state House and Senate, with a public career spanning five decades. She began her service as Izard County welfare director and later entered politics, winning election as Baxter County treasurer before serving in the House and Senate.

The nonprofit Arkansas Women’s Hall of Fame began as a partnership between the North Little Rock Chamber of Commerce and Arkansas Business Publishing Group. The North Little Rock Chamber of Commerce currently manages the event.

The hall has inducted new members each year. Nominees are not limited to a certain field or accomplishment and can include pioneers, philanthropists, educators, entrepreneurs, athletes, artists, business leaders, and political figures.

Tables and tickets to the Arkansas Women’s Hall of Fame induction ceremony can be purchased at ARWomensHallofFame.com. Sponsorship and advertising opportunities are also available through the website.

Leave a comment

Lender Quick-Connect is May 13 at UA Little Rock

Arkansas entrepreneurs looking to fund a new business, ongoing operations, expansion or acquisition can fast-track their search at Lender Quick-Connect: Find Your Funder.

The Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center will host the free event on May 13, from 1 to 4 p.m., at the Reynolds Business Center on the campus of the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.

In a single afternoon, aspiring and established business owners can connect with multiple Arkansas lenders in a fast-paced “speed dating” format.

Participants will be matched with lender appointments based on key business details such as their industry, business stage, credit history and project scope.

The event is designed to help entrepreneurs navigate the funding landscape and build relationships with funders who have a proven track record of small business lending.

Attendees can also:

• Confer with credit counseling services to discuss financial readiness

• Engage with ASBTDC business consultants and Small Business Administration representatives

• Get expert tips on crafting a compelling funding pitch

“Outside of personal savings or contributions from friends and family, a loan is the most common way to get capital for launching or growing a business,” said ASBTDC State Director Laura Fine. “Lender Quick-Connect is an excellent opportunity to pitch a project to several potential funding partners in a short period of time and explore financing options available through banks, credit unions, microlenders and Community Development Financial Institutions.”

Participating lending institutions include ACC Capital, Arkansas Federal Credit Union, Arvest Bank, Chase Bank, Communities Unlimited, First Security Bank, FNBC, FORGE Community Loan Fund, Hope Credit Union, Regions Bank, Southern Bancorp Bank, Southern Bancorp Community Partners, Stone Bank and U.S. Bank.

Pre-registration is required. To reserve a spot, go to tinyurl.com/3vthe5hr or contact Laterika Tooks-Staton at 501-804-4530 or lstooks@ualr.edu.

Through its offices around the state, the ASBTDC offers no-cost services and resources for Arkansas entrepreneurs and small businesses. For more information, call 800-862-2040 or visit asbtdc.org.

Share

Sports

Upcoming Travs games

At Wichita, now through May 3

Six-game homestand against Tulsa

Tuesday, May 5, 6:05 p.m.

• Dog Day: Human fans can get $3 Berm tickets by bringing their dog to the game (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window). NOTE: Dogs are only allowed in the Berm areas | Presented By Hollywood Feed

• Fiesta de Diamantes: The Travs will take the field as the Diamantes de Arkansas in salute of Hispanic Heritage!

Wednesday, May 6, 11:05 a.m.

• School Day: Putting the “field” in “greatest field trip ever!” | Presented By Summit Community Care

• Senior Day

Thursday, May 7, 6:35 p.m.

• Mad Mallards Weekend: Join us in celebration of Central Arkansas’ obsession with waterfowl hunting! | Presented By Arkansas Ducks Unlimited

• $3 Thursday: Enjoy an amazing value for the whole family and the best patio in Central Arkansas! Get $3 General Admission or Beer Garden tickets at a WinChoice Box Office Window. Plus, feed the whole crew for less with select concession items for $3 each!

Friday, May 8, 7:05 p.m.

• Mad Mallards Weekend: Join us in celebration of Central Arkansas’ obsession with waterfowl hunting! | Presented By Arkansas Ducks Unlimited

• Fireworks Friday

Saturday, May 9, 4:05 p.m.

• Mad Mallards Weekend: Join us in celebration of Central Arkansas’ obsession with waterfowl hunting! | Presented By Arkansas Ducks Unlimited

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank

• Trucker Hat Giveaway: Celebrate the Travs’ 125th Anniversary with some limited edition headwear! | Presented By Snapple | First 1,000 Fans (one item per person)

Sunday, May 10, 1:35 p.m.

• Mad Mallards Weekend: Join us in celebration of Central Arkansas’ obsession with waterfowl hunting! | Presented By Arkansas Ducks Unlimited

• Kids Baseball Clinic: Kids 13 and under are invited to join Travs players on field for a baseball clinic starting at noon! Instruction will last approximately 45 minutes. | Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank

• Baseball BINGO: Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Operation: Military Appreciation: Service Members get $3 off General Admission and Field Reserved tickets by presenting a Military ID (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window) | Presented By Mid-South Ford Dealers

• Family Sunday Deal: Get $3 General Admission tickets by presenting a physical or digital church bulletin (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window)

At Northwest Arkansas, May 12-17

Six-game homestand against Springfield

Tuesday, May 19, 6:35 p.m.

• Dog Day: Human fans can get $3 Berm tickets by bringing their dog to the game (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window). NOTE: Dogs are only allowed in the Berm areas | Presented By Hollywood Feed

Wednesday, May 20, 6:35 p.m.

• Dog Day: Human fans can get $3 Berm tickets by bringing their dog to the game (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window). NOTE: Dogs are only allowed in the Berm areas | Presented By Hollywood Feed

Thursday, May 21, 6:35 p.m.

• $3 Thursday: Enjoy an amazing value for the whole family and the best patio in Central Arkansas! Get $3 General Admission or Beer Garden tickets at a WinChoice Box Office Window. Plus, feed the whole crew for less with select concession items for $3 each!

Friday, May 22, 7:05 p.m.

• Fireworks Friday: Presented By Bank OZK

Saturday, May 23, 6:35 p.m.

• Cal Raleigh Bobblecard Giveaway: Presented By Hardee’s | First 1,000 Fans (one item per person)

• Post-Game Fireworks

Sunday, May 24, 6:05 p.m.

• Post-Game Fireworks

• Baseball BINGO: Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Operation: Military Appreciation: Service Members get $3 off General Admission and Field Reserved tickets by presenting a Military ID (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window) | Presented By Mid-South Ford Dealers

Six-game homestand against Frisco

Tuesday, May 26, 6:35 p.m.

• Dog Day: Human fans can get $3 Berm tickets by bringing their dog to the game (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window). NOTE: Dogs are only allowed in the Berm areas | Presented By Hollywood Feed

Wednesday, May 27, 6:35 p.m.

• Dog Day: Human fans can get $3 Berm tickets by bringing their dog to the game (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window). NOTE: Dogs are only allowed in the Berm areas | Presented By Hollywood Feed

Thursday, May 28, 6:35 p.m.

• $3 Thursday: Enjoy an amazing value for the whole family and the best patio in Central Arkansas! Get $3 General Admission or Beer Garden tickets at a WinChoice Box Office Window. Plus, feed the whole crew for less with select concession items for $3 each!

• Singles Night: Let the Travs help turn a single into a double! Join us at the ballpark for a pre-game “Singles Mingle” event.

Friday, May 29, 7:05 p.m.

• Fireworks Friday: Presented By Baldwin & Shell Construction

Saturday, May 30, 6:05 p.m.

• Faith & Family Night: The perfect night for a church group outing! | Presented By Hickingbotham Investments

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank

Sunday, May 31, 1:35 p.m.

• Fiesta de Diamantes: The Travs will take the field as the Diamantes de Arkansas in salute of Hispanic Heritage!

• Kids Baseball Clinic: Kids 13 and under are invited to join Travs players on field for a baseball clinic starting at noon! Instruction will last approximately 45 minutes. | Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank

• Baseball BINGO: Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Operation: Military Appreciation: Service Members get $3 off General Admission and Field Reserved tickets by presenting a Military ID (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window) | Presented By Mid-South Ford Dealers

• Family Sunday Deal: Get $3 General Admission tickets by presenting a physical or digital church bulletin (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window).

Leave a comment

Health

Pandemic deaths unknown

The state Department of Health didn’t update the state’s dashboard this week, again, and deaths still total 532 for the past year. There’s no tab created for 2025 either and the virus has now killed 14,162 Arkansans since the pandemic began then. That would mean the pandemic death toll has now passed Marion’s 13,635 people, the state’s 29th largest city.

Covid toolkit

There’s now a one-stop shop to learn about vaccination sites and other Covid related information. Click here to learn more.

If you don’t want to get sick and die, there’s some things you can do:

• Get vaccinated

• Get boosted

• Wear a mask

• Avoid crowds

Subscribe if you like, pay if you can

Note to subscribers: An annual or monthly subscription is billed to your debit or credit card as ARKANSAS.SUBSTACK.COM and if you have questions, please email arkansas@substack.com. Thanks for reading and subscribing!

The Headlines

• MEETINGS:The North Little Rock School Board will have a special call,meeting at 5:30 p.m. tonight at the district’s administration building. For the agenda, mostly executive sessions to discuss personnel, click here. The Maumelle Planning Commission also meets tonight but at 6:30 p.m. and for more on that, keep scrolling. The North Little Rock City Council will meet next Monday night at City Hall. The quarterly meeting of the North Little Rock Advertising & Promotion Commission will take place at 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 28 and will be in the Board Room at 600 Main St.

• EVENTS: he Little Rock Zoo is hosting Wild Wines, a fundraiser, on Friday and Saturday. Tickets are available by clicking here and both nights, the event starts at 7 p.m. There’s food, and booze, and a good time will be had by all. There’s also quite a bit more happening this weekend, so keep on scrolling.

Subscribe if you like, pay if you can

Maumelle Planning Commission meets tonight

The Maumelle Planning Commission will have its regular, monthly meeting at 6:30 p.m. tonight at City Hall.

For the agenda, click here.

The agenda is another light one, with only one item of old business expected to be discussed at tonight’s meeting.

Previously deferred, the Planning Commission will hear the County Club of Arkansas Lot 70A development plan.

The plan involves a replat of Lot 700 RR and is part of the phase 15 development.

The area covers 9.422 acres with an average lot size of 1.599 acres for a total of six lots, all for commercial development.

The plan would require a “future road extension off of Paul Eells Drive and the staff recommendation is for approval.

The idea behind the design is to “avoid a strip center commercial look” and create “visual cohesion” and “promote density with interconnectivity and walkability.”

The development guidelines included in the packet, also noted that, “the intent is to maintain flexibility while enforcing quality.”

Hmm,

Renderings of the proposal were not included in the packet, as further development of the per lot submittals, “will require Planning Commission and City Council approval.”

Hmm.

The lot development plan is listed as an item of new business but Lewis Engineering has requested deferral to the May 28 meeting.

Tonight’s meeting is open to the public and will be livestreamed on the city’s YouTube page.

Share

Academics Plus COO Kyron Jones named Educator of the Year

Kyron Jones, Chief Operating Officer of Academics Plus Charter Schools, was recently named an Alma J. Washington Educator of the Year by the Oscar Washington Jr. Educational Fund.

The Alma J. Washington Educator of the Year Award recognizes current and former Arkansas educators for their contributions to the state’s education system and their impact on students. Honorees are recognized annually at the Oscar Washington Jr. Educational Fund Scholarship Awards Ceremony and receive a $1,000 prize. Jones was one of five educators selected for the award this year.

He was recently named the incoming Chief Executive Officer of Academics Plus Charter Schools, succeeding Rob McGill, who announced his retirement.

“Kyron has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to students, staff and the mission of public education,” McGill said. “This recognition reflects not only his leadership, but the lasting impact he has on the school community every day. I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this honor.” Jones will assume his new role July 1.

Subscribe now

The Long Road Home Project makes North Little Rock stop

North Little Rock Mayor Terry Hartwick quite literally stepped into the moment on Wednesday and hopped on a horse to present a proclamation to the riders of The Long Road Home Project, an initiative promoting the foster care system.

The riders stopped in North Little Rock enroute to the state capitol as they carried hundreds of letters to deliver to state legislators and other leaders.

The ride covered more than 220 miles across the state.

To see photos, click here.

Leave a comment

Touch Grass

On the wilds of the internet, a common refrain has been “touch grass.”

How people take that meaning varies as some consider it an insult to the keyboard warriors fighting the good fight with their memes and such. While others take it as a call, to get outside, enjoy the sun and the way grass feels on your bare feet on a pleasant spring day.

Truth be told, the meaning could go either way as it depends on the context, but for these purposes we mean the latter and not the former.

The weather, at least for here, has been an April delight with highs in the 70s and sunny skies.

The humidity is coming, that’s for sure, but for now, it is a good time to be outside.

And, Arkansas, generally, is as good as any place in the country to be outside in. There’s parks and creeks and rivers and forests and so much good stuff to enjoy.

It is also “honeysuckle season” and it just smells great outside. Even in the backyard the dog treats it as its toilet.

You don’t even need a ticket in your pocket to feel the southern breezes and the southern wind.

There is, however, a downside to being outside now.

Pollen.

Pollen so thick it feels like it crunches when you walk across the driveway.

It is also going to get worse, as AccuWeather released a report that said pollen has already ramped up and will get worse as spring turns into early summer.

As a matter of fact, the report listed 20 cities where a “pollen tsunami” is expected and Little Rock came in at No. 17.

Joy.

Pass the Kleenex and stock up on Claritan, or your preferred over the counter medication.

Eye on the Sky

• Today: A 20 percent chance of afternoon showers and thunderstorms with a high near 80 and a low around 66.

• Friday: Showers and possibly a thunderstorm. High near 76 with a low around 61. Chance of precipitation is 80 percent.

• Saturday: A slight chance of showers, with afternoon thunderstorms, with a high near 79 and a low around 63. Chance of precipitation is 20 percent.

• Sunday: A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, with a high near 82 and a low around 67.

Share

Airmen of Note to make stops in central Arkansas

The U.S. Air Force’s “The Airmen of Note” is making a nine-day run through the south with two stops in Arkansas next week.

The concerts are free and open to the public, though tickets are required. Ticket information for these concerts is available at: https://www.music.af.mil/USAFBand/Events/National-Tours/Airmen-of-Note/

The central Arkansas stops are:

• Tonight, 7 p.m. at the Reynolds Performance Hall on the UCA campus in Conway.

• Friday, at 7 p.m., Little Rock Central High School

Share

Drug Take Back Day is Saturday

The National Prescription Drug Take Back day will be held this Saturday, April 25.

Among the locations where unused, or out-of-date prescription drugs can be dropped is the South Parking Lot of McCain Mall, where the North Little Rock Police Department will have a drop-off box. Both the Maumelle and North Little Rock police departments have 24-hour, 365 day drop off boxes in their respective lobbies at those cities’ police stations.

PCSSD hosts Showcase and Career Expo is Saturday

The Pulaski County Special School District will host its annual Showcase and Career Expo from 9 a.m. to noon, this Saturday, April 25, The event will be held on the campus of Mills High School at 708 East Dixon Road.

Families who are interested in registering their scholars may also visit the Showcase and Career Expo to begin the process or learn more about PCSSD offerings.

Representatives from the Arkansas Minority Health Commission, Good Groceries Mobile Market, and other food and community vendors will be on hand for the event.

Learn more about openings and apply online: https://www.pcssd.org/page/careers.

Spring Dance concert is April 30

The North Little Rock High School Theatre Arts Department will present its spring dance concert on Thursday, April 30 at 6:30 p.m. featuring performances by the school’s Dance Troupe, Theatre Dance I-IV classes, and participants from the Preschool/Elementary Dance Workshop in the new North Little Rock High School Performing Arts Center (201 West 22nd St.).

Tickets are $6 for students/seniors and $8 for adults.

Lender Quick-Connect is May 13 at UA Little Rock

Arkansas entrepreneurs looking to fund a new business, ongoing operations, expansion or acquisition can fast-track their search at Lender Quick-Connect: Find Your Funder.

The Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center will host the free event on May 13, from 1 to 4 p.m., at the Reynolds Business Center on the campus of the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.

In a single afternoon, aspiring and established business owners can connect with multiple Arkansas lenders in a fast-paced “speed dating” format.

Participants will be matched with lender appointments based on key business details such as their industry, business stage, credit history and project scope.

The event is designed to help entrepreneurs navigate the funding landscape and build relationships with funders who have a proven track record of small business lending.

Attendees can also:

• Confer with credit counseling services to discuss financial readiness

• Engage with ASBTDC business consultants and Small Business Administration representatives

• Get expert tips on crafting a compelling funding pitch

“Outside of personal savings or contributions from friends and family, a loan is the most common way to get capital for launching or growing a business,” said ASBTDC State Director Laura Fine. “Lender Quick-Connect is an excellent opportunity to pitch a project to several potential funding partners in a short period of time and explore financing options available through banks, credit unions, microlenders and Community Development Financial Institutions.”

Participating lending institutions include ACC Capital, Arkansas Federal Credit Union, Arvest Bank, Chase Bank, Communities Unlimited, First Security Bank, FNBC, FORGE Community Loan Fund, Hope Credit Union, Regions Bank, Southern Bancorp Bank, Southern Bancorp Community Partners, Stone Bank and U.S. Bank.

Pre-registration is required. To reserve a spot, go to tinyurl.com/3vthe5hr or contact Laterika Tooks-Staton at 501-804-4530 or lstooks@ualr.edu.

Through its offices around the state, the ASBTDC offers no-cost services and resources for Arkansas entrepreneurs and small businesses. For more information, call 800-862-2040 or visit asbtdc.org.

Share

Sports

Upcoming Travs games

Six-game homestand against Corpus Christi

Tonight, 6:35 p.m.

• $3 Thursday: Enjoy an amazing value for the whole family and the best patio in Central Arkansas! Get $3 General Admission or Beer Garden tickets at a WinChoice Box Office Window. Plus, feed the whole crew for less with select concession items for $3 each!

• Singles Night: Let the Travs help turn a single into a double! Join us at the ballpark for a pre-game “Singles Mingle” event.

Friday, 7:05 p.m.

• Fireworks Friday: Presented By Metro Disaster Specialists

• 501 Night: Join us in celebrating Central Arkansas! | Presented By Little Rock Regional Chamber of Commerce

Saturday, 4:05 p.m.

• Bluey at the Ballpark: Wackadoo! Bluey is coming back to the Ballpark -- for real life. Information on the meet and greet with your favorite Heeler will be available soon!

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank:

Sunday, 1:35 p.m.

• Bluey at the Ballpark: Wackadoo! Bluey is coming back to the Ballpark -- for real life. Information on the meet and greet with your favorite Heeler will be available soon!

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank:

• Baseball BINGO: Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Operation: Military Appreciation: Service Members get $3 off General Admission and Field Reserved tickets by presenting a Military ID (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window) | Presented By Mid-South Ford Dealers

At Wichita, April 28-May 3

Six-game homestand against Tulsa

Tuesday, May 5, 6:05 p.m.

• Dog Day: Human fans can get $3 Berm tickets by bringing their dog to the game (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window). NOTE: Dogs are only allowed in the Berm areas | Presented By Hollywood Feed

• Fiesta de Diamantes: The Travs will take the field as the Diamantes de Arkansas in salute of Hispanic Heritage!

Wednesday, May 6, 11:05 a.m.

• School Day: Putting the “field” in “greatest field trip ever!” | Presented By Summit Community Care

• Senior Day

Thursday, May 7, 6:35 p.m.

• Mad Mallards Weekend: Join us in celebration of Central Arkansas’ obsession with waterfowl hunting! | Presented By Arkansas Ducks Unlimited

• $3 Thursday: Enjoy an amazing value for the whole family and the best patio in Central Arkansas! Get $3 General Admission or Beer Garden tickets at a WinChoice Box Office Window. Plus, feed the whole crew for less with select concession items for $3 each!

Friday, May 8, 7:05 p.m.

• Mad Mallards Weekend: Join us in celebration of Central Arkansas’ obsession with waterfowl hunting! | Presented By Arkansas Ducks Unlimited

• Fireworks Friday

Saturday, May 9, 4:05 p.m.

• Mad Mallards Weekend: Join us in celebration of Central Arkansas’ obsession with waterfowl hunting! | Presented By Arkansas Ducks Unlimited

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank

• Trucker Hat Giveaway: Celebrate the Travs’ 125th Anniversary with some limited edition headwear! | Presented By Snapple | First 1,000 Fans (one item per person)

Sunday, May 10, 1:35 p.m.

• Mad Mallards Weekend: Join us in celebration of Central Arkansas’ obsession with waterfowl hunting! | Presented By Arkansas Ducks Unlimited

• Kids Baseball Clinic: Kids 13 and under are invited to join Travs players on field for a baseball clinic starting at noon! Instruction will last approximately 45 minutes. | Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank

• Baseball BINGO: Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Operation: Military Appreciation: Service Members get $3 off General Admission and Field Reserved tickets by presenting a Military ID (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window) | Presented By Mid-South Ford Dealers

• Family Sunday Deal: Get $3 General Admission tickets by presenting a physical or digital church bulletin (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window)

At Northwest Arkansas, May 12-17

Six-game homestand against Springfield

Tuesday, May 19, 6:35 p.m.

• Dog Day: Human fans can get $3 Berm tickets by bringing their dog to the game (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window). NOTE: Dogs are only allowed in the Berm areas | Presented By Hollywood Feed

Wednesday, May 20, 6:35 p.m.

• Dog Day: Human fans can get $3 Berm tickets by bringing their dog to the game (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window). NOTE: Dogs are only allowed in the Berm areas | Presented By Hollywood Feed

Thursday, May 21, 6:35 p.m.

• $3 Thursday: Enjoy an amazing value for the whole family and the best patio in Central Arkansas! Get $3 General Admission or Beer Garden tickets at a WinChoice Box Office Window. Plus, feed the whole crew for less with select concession items for $3 each!

Friday, May 22, 7:05 p.m.

• Fireworks Friday: Presented By Bank OZK

Saturday, May 23, 6:35 p.m.

• Cal Raleigh Bobblecard Giveaway: Presented By Hardee’s | First 1,000 Fans (one item per person)

• Post-Game Fireworks

Sunday, May 24, 6:05 p.m.

• Post-Game Fireworks

• Baseball BINGO: Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Operation: Military Appreciation: Service Members get $3 off General Admission and Field Reserved tickets by presenting a Military ID (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window) | Presented By Mid-South Ford Dealers

Six-game homestand against Frisco

Tuesday, May 26, 6:35 p.m.

• Dog Day: Human fans can get $3 Berm tickets by bringing their dog to the game (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window). NOTE: Dogs are only allowed in the Berm areas | Presented By Hollywood Feed

Wednesday, May 27, 6:35 p.m.

• Dog Day: Human fans can get $3 Berm tickets by bringing their dog to the game (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window). NOTE: Dogs are only allowed in the Berm areas | Presented By Hollywood Feed

Thursday, May 28, 6:35 p.m.

• $3 Thursday: Enjoy an amazing value for the whole family and the best patio in Central Arkansas! Get $3 General Admission or Beer Garden tickets at a WinChoice Box Office Window. Plus, feed the whole crew for less with select concession items for $3 each!

• Singles Night: Let the Travs help turn a single into a double! Join us at the ballpark for a pre-game “Singles Mingle” event.

Friday, May 29, 7:05 p.m.

• Fireworks Friday: Presented By Baldwin & Shell Construction

Saturday, May 30, 6:05 p.m.

• Faith & Family Night: The perfect night for a church group outing! | Presented By Hickingbotham Investments

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank

Sunday, May 31, 1:35 p.m.

• Fiesta de Diamantes: The Travs will take the field as the Diamantes de Arkansas in salute of Hispanic Heritage!

• Kids Baseball Clinic: Kids 13 and under are invited to join Travs players on field for a baseball clinic starting at noon! Instruction will last approximately 45 minutes. | Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank

• Baseball BINGO: Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Operation: Military Appreciation: Service Members get $3 off General Admission and Field Reserved tickets by presenting a Military ID (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window) | Presented By Mid-South Ford Dealers

• Family Sunday Deal: Get $3 General Admission tickets by presenting a physical or digital church bulletin (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window).

Leave a comment

Health

Pandemic deaths unknown

The state Department of Health didn’t update the state’s dashboard this week, again, and deaths still total 532 for the past year. There’s no tab created for 2025 either and the virus has now killed 14,162 Arkansans since the pandemic began then. That would mean the pandemic death toll has now passed Marion’s 13,635 people, the state’s 29th largest city.

Covid toolkit

There’s now a one-stop shop to learn about vaccination sites and other Covid related information. Click here to learn more.

If you don’t want to get sick and die, there’s some things you can do:

• Get vaccinated

• Get boosted

• Wear a mask

• Avoid crowds

Subscribe if you like, pay if you can

Note to subscribers: An annual or monthly subscription is billed to your debit or credit card as ARKANSAS.SUBSTACK.COM and if you have questions, please email arkansas@substack.com. Thanks for reading and subscribing!

The Headlines

• MEETINGS: The North Little Rock School Board will have its regular, monthly ,meeting at 5:30 p.m. tonight at the district’s administration building. The Maumelle City Council will meet next Monday night at City Hall. The meetings will be livestreamed on the respective YouTube channels and the public is welcome. The quarterly meeting of the North Little Rock Advertising & Promotion Commission will take place at 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 28 and will be in the Board Room at 600 Main St.

• EVENTS: The annual Folk Festival will be in Mountain View this Friday and Saturday. For more on that, keep scrolling. Also worth noting that Mountain View will again be the place to be when the Ozark Folk Center State Park will host the John Prine Folk Festival on June 19 and 20. Prine’s son, Tommy, is the headliner on Friday with Shawn Camp leading the stage on Saturday. We’ll have more details, as the festival gets closer and will have some peaches to calm down.

Airmen of Note to make stops in central Arkansas

The U.S. Air Force’s “The Airmen of Note” is making a nine-day run through the south with two stops in Arkansas next week.

The concerts are free and open to the public, though tickets are required. Ticket information for these concerts is available at: https://www.music.af.mil/USAFBand/Events/National-Tours/Airmen-of-Note/

The central Arkansas stops are:

• Thursday, April 23 at 7 p.m. at the Reynolds Performance Hall on the UCA campus in Conway.

• Friday, April 24 at 7 p.m., Little Rock Central High School

Subscribe if you like, pay if you can

Mountain View to host folk festival this weekend

The 64th annual Folk Festival will be held in Mountain View on Friday and Saturday and the Artisans Market on the Square will be open for business.

Located on the grass north of the Courthouse next to Mountain View Music, hours are Friday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The market will feature arts and crafts from Arkansas Craft Guild members and guests and among the items on sale will be jewelry and pottery, Ozark woodcrafts, quilts, glass beads, stained glass, whipped candles, and leather bags.

Among the artisans are Dana Finimore, at Rare Birds Studio, who makes functional and art pottery, Metalsmith Cindy Kopack, with Whippoorwill Mountain Jewelry, has a selection of hammered silver, copper and brass earrings, necklaces and bracelets, some combined with precious stones. Master glass artists Tom and Sage Holland, Glass Beadmakers, bring colorful flame-worked bead jewelry and sculptural pieces to share with the public. Michael and Ethan Hicks, ro’ark leather return to the Market with hand-stitched leather bags and wallets.

Also, Oddbowlz Ceramics’ Greg Hall will bring functional pottery bowls, mugs and soup bowls. Mike Mowery, MTM Woodworking, shows his turned wooden kitchenware, cutting boards, and board games. Norma and Martie Matthews, NM Quilts and Embroidery, with Martie’s useful and decorative wooden wares have been at Artisans Market for years. Gynna Sutherland, A Touch O’Glass, brings custom stained glass and hand-cut scrollwork frames.

New to the mix is CJ Huber, with Money Bender, who makes rings, earrings, and necklaces from antique and modern coins, including motorcycle gremlin bells and keychains, plus Epoxy/wood charcuterie boards. Cristina Wilcox, Whipped Candle Co. makes handcrafted whipped candles that combine dessert-inspired artistry with CleanScent fragrance and clean-burning wax, designed to be both beautiful and functional. Author John Sajdak’s Whisker Tales is a series of dual-perspective illustrated storybooks written and art-directed by John in both hard and soft covers.

The Arkansas Craft Guild & Gallery, 104 E. Main, is sponsor of the Artisans Market. Demonstrating wildlife painting on cedarwood in the Gallery during Folk Festival will be Loretta Babak, Herpel Heritage, open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Loretta Babak will be demonstrating painting April 18 inside the Arkansas Craft Guild & Gallery, 104 E Main, Mountain View, where her art can be purchased. T

Her subject matter ranges from wildlife, natural scenery, and seascapes to pet portraits. She paints in oil, acrylic and watercolor on canvas, cedarwood, and on glass in reverse. Locally her best selling pieces are trout and turkeys painted on cedarwood. Reverse glass painting is almost a dying art, yet she continues to enjoy this method, shown here, the “Red Dot Butterfly.’

Loretta has served as Vice President of the Arkansas Craft Guild for three years and is currently on the Board of Directors. She volunteers once a month as hostess of the Gallery, helping customers with their purchases, usually on a Friday or Saturday.

Loretta maintains membership in the Mountain View Art Guild, Mid-Southern Watercolorists, the Palette Art League, American Women Artists, American Impressionist Society, as well as the Arkansas Craft Guild, which gives her the opportunity to participate in functions with like-minded people. She also participates in the Off the Beaten Path Studio Tour on Sept. 25-27/

Share

Drug Take Back Day is April 25

The National Prescription Drug Take Back day will be held Saturday, April 25.

Among the locations where unused, or out-of-date prescription drugs can be dropped is the South Parking Lot of McCain Mall, where the North Little Rock Police Department will have a drop-off box. Both the Maumelle and North Little Rock police departments have 24-hour, 365 day drop off boxes in their respective lobbies at those cities’ police stations.

Time for local dancers to shine is April 25

The North Little Rock High School Theatre Dance students will host their 23rd annual Preschool/Elementary Dance Workshop on Saturday, April 25th from 9 a.m. to noon in the North Little Rock High School Performing Arts Center.

Sixty local preschool and elementary students have the opportunity to take part in the dance workshop. Each participant is assigned to a high school dance student who remains with their “little friend” throughout the entire workshop. The elementary students are taught a dance that allows them to be featured in the spring dance concert. The Dance Program is a gateway for these young students to become involved in the arts at an early age.

The North Little Rock High School Theatre Arts Department will present its spring dance concert on Thursday, April 30 at 6:30 p.m. featuring performances by the school’s Dance Troupe, Theatre Dance I-IV classes, and participants from the Preschool/Elementary Dance Workshop in the new North Little Rock High School Performing Arts Center (201 West 22nd St.).

Tickets are $6 for students/seniors and $8 for adults.

PCSSD hosts Showcase and Career Expo is April 25

The Pulaski County Special School District will host its annual Showcase and Career Expo from 9 a.m. to noon. On Saturday, April 25, The event will be held on the campus of Mills University Studies High School at 708 East Dixon Road.

A key facet of the event is to recruit employees to work in a variety of educational areas within the schools and district office. The district plans to hire at least 100 teachers from a variety of educational areas to work in the district for the 2026-2027 academic year. The district is also recruiting other employee positions such as paraprofessionals, bus drivers, administrative assistants, bookkeepers, and more. Representatives from each school and several district departments will be on hand to speak to visitors about working with the district and scheduling interviews.

Families who are interested in registering their scholars may also visit the Showcase and Career Expo to begin the process or learn more about PCSSD offerings.

Representatives from the Arkansas Minority Health Commission, Good Groceries Mobile Market, and other food and community vendors will be on hand for the event.

Learn more about openings and apply online: https://www.pcssd.org/page/careers.

Share

Lender Quick-Connect is May 13 at UA Little Rock

Arkansas entrepreneurs looking to fund a new business, ongoing operations, expansion or acquisition can fast-track their search at Lender Quick-Connect: Find Your Funder.

The Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center will host the free event on May 13, from 1 to 4 p.m., at the Reynolds Business Center on the campus of the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.

In a single afternoon, aspiring and established business owners can connect with multiple Arkansas lenders in a fast-paced “speed dating” format.

Participants will be matched with lender appointments based on key business details such as their industry, business stage, credit history and project scope.

The event is designed to help entrepreneurs navigate the funding landscape and build relationships with funders who have a proven track record of small business lending.

Attendees can also:

• Confer with credit counseling services to discuss financial readiness

• Engage with ASBTDC business consultants and Small Business Administration representatives

• Get expert tips on crafting a compelling funding pitch

“Outside of personal savings or contributions from friends and family, a loan is the most common way to get capital for launching or growing a business,” said ASBTDC State Director Laura Fine. “Lender Quick-Connect is an excellent opportunity to pitch a project to several potential funding partners in a short period of time and explore financing options available through banks, credit unions, microlenders and Community Development Financial Institutions.”

Participating lending institutions include ACC Capital, Arkansas Federal Credit Union, Arvest Bank, Chase Bank, Communities Unlimited, First Security Bank, FNBC, FORGE Community Loan Fund, Hope Credit Union, Regions Bank, Southern Bancorp Bank, Southern Bancorp Community Partners, Stone Bank and U.S. Bank.

Pre-registration is required. To reserve a spot, go to tinyurl.com/3vthe5hr or contact Laterika Tooks-Staton at 501-804-4530 or lstooks@ualr.edu.

Through its offices around the state, the ASBTDC offers no-cost services and resources for Arkansas entrepreneurs and small businesses. For more information, call 800-862-2040 or visit asbtdc.org.

Subscribe now

Sparklight opens Spring 2026 Charitable Giving Fund applications

Sparklight, a leading high-speed internet provider, is now accepting applications for its Spring 2026 Charitable Giving Fund. Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Sparklight’s 24-state service areas are invited to apply for funding now through April 30.

Each year, Sparklight awards $250,000 in grants to nonprofit organizations working to strengthen the communities they serve. Funding supports initiatives in three key areas where the need is significant and the impact is lasting:

• Education and Digital Literacy

• Hunger Relief and Food Insecurity

• Community Development

“Local nonprofits are the backbone of strong communities — meeting pressing needs, creating meaningful opportunities and making a lasting difference every day,” said Jim Holanda, Sparklight CEO. “Through our Charitable Giving Fund, we’re proud to support their work and help extend their impact in the communities we serve.”

Since the Fund’s inception in 2020, Sparklight has awarded more than $1.2 million in grants to more than 275 nonprofits. These investments have supported initiatives in digital literacy, hunger relief, child and senior advocacy, housing and broader community programs.

For additional information about the Sparklight Charitable Giving Fund or to apply for a grant, please visit www.sparklight.com/charitablegiving. To learn more about Sparklight internet and mobile services, visit www.sparklight.com/internet.

Share

Sports

Upcoming Travs games

At Tulsa, now through April 19

Six-game homestand against Corpus Christi

Tuesday, April 21, 11:05 a.m.

• School Day: Putting the “field” in “greatest field trip ever!” | Presented By Waste Management

• Senior Day

Wednesday. April 22, 6:35 p.m.

• Dog Day: Human fans can get $3 Berm tickets by bringing their dog to the game (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window). NOTE: Dogs are only allowed in the Berm areas | Presented By Hollywood Feed: Human fans can get $3 Berm tickets by bringing their dog to the game (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window). NOTE: Dogs are only allowed in the Berm areas | Presented By Hollywood Feed

Thursday. April 23, 6:35 p.m.

• $3 Thursday: Enjoy an amazing value for the whole family and the best patio in Central Arkansas! Get $3 General Admission or Beer Garden tickets at a WinChoice Box Office Window. Plus, feed the whole crew for less with select concession items for $3 each!

• Singles Night: Let the Travs help turn a single into a double! Join us at the ballpark for a pre-game “Singles Mingle” event.

Friday, April 24, 7:05 p.m.

• Fireworks Friday: Presented By Metro Disaster Specialists

• 501 Night: Join us in celebrating Central Arkansas! | Presented By Little Rock Regional Chamber of Commerce

Saturday, April 25, 4:05 p.m.

• Bluey at the Ballpark: Wackadoo! Bluey is coming back to the Ballpark -- for real life. Information on the meet and greet with your favorite Heeler will be available soon!

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank:

Sunday, April 26, 1:35 p.m.

• Bluey at the Ballpark: Wackadoo! Bluey is coming back to the Ballpark -- for real life. Information on the meet and greet with your favorite Heeler will be available soon!

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank:

• Baseball BINGO: Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Operation: Military Appreciation: Service Members get $3 off General Admission and Field Reserved tickets by presenting a Military ID (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window) | Presented By Mid-South Ford Dealers

At Wichita, April 28-May 3

Six-game homestand against Tulsa

Tuesday, May 5, 6:05 p.m.

• Dog Day: Human fans can get $3 Berm tickets by bringing their dog to the game (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window). NOTE: Dogs are only allowed in the Berm areas | Presented By Hollywood Feed

• Fiesta de Diamantes: The Travs will take the field as the Diamantes de Arkansas in salute of Hispanic Heritage!

Wednesday, May 6, 11:05 a.m.

• School Day: Putting the “field” in “greatest field trip ever!” | Presented By Summit Community Care

• Senior Day

Thursday, May 7, 6:35 p.m.

• Mad Mallards Weekend: Join us in celebration of Central Arkansas’ obsession with waterfowl hunting! | Presented By Arkansas Ducks Unlimited

• $3 Thursday: Enjoy an amazing value for the whole family and the best patio in Central Arkansas! Get $3 General Admission or Beer Garden tickets at a WinChoice Box Office Window. Plus, feed the whole crew for less with select concession items for $3 each!

Friday, May 8, 7:05 p.m.

• Mad Mallards Weekend: Join us in celebration of Central Arkansas’ obsession with waterfowl hunting! | Presented By Arkansas Ducks Unlimited

• Fireworks Friday

Saturday, May 9, 4:05 p.m.

• Mad Mallards Weekend: Join us in celebration of Central Arkansas’ obsession with waterfowl hunting! | Presented By Arkansas Ducks Unlimited

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank

• Trucker Hat Giveaway: Celebrate the Travs’ 125th Anniversary with some limited edition headwear! | Presented By Snapple | First 1,000 Fans (one item per person)

Sunday, May 10, 1:35 p.m.

• Mad Mallards Weekend: Join us in celebration of Central Arkansas’ obsession with waterfowl hunting! | Presented By Arkansas Ducks Unlimited

• Kids Baseball Clinic: Kids 13 and under are invited to join Travs players on field for a baseball clinic starting at noon! Instruction will last approximately 45 minutes. | Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank

• Baseball BINGO: Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Operation: Military Appreciation: Service Members get $3 off General Admission and Field Reserved tickets by presenting a Military ID (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window) | Presented By Mid-South Ford Dealers

• Family Sunday Deal: Get $3 General Admission tickets by presenting a physical or digital church bulletin (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window)

At Northwest Arkansas, May 12-17

Six-game homestand against Springfield

Tuesday, May 19, 6:35 p.m.

• Dog Day: Human fans can get $3 Berm tickets by bringing their dog to the game (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window). NOTE: Dogs are only allowed in the Berm areas | Presented By Hollywood Feed

Wednesday, May 20, 6:35 p.m.

• Dog Day: Human fans can get $3 Berm tickets by bringing their dog to the game (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window). NOTE: Dogs are only allowed in the Berm areas | Presented By Hollywood Feed

Thursday, May 21, 6:35 p.m.

• $3 Thursday: Enjoy an amazing value for the whole family and the best patio in Central Arkansas! Get $3 General Admission or Beer Garden tickets at a WinChoice Box Office Window. Plus, feed the whole crew for less with select concession items for $3 each!

Friday, May 22, 7:05 p.m.

• Fireworks Friday: Presented By Bank OZK

Saturday, May 23, 6:35 p.m.

• Cal Raleigh Bobblecard Giveaway: Presented By Hardee’s | First 1,000 Fans (one item per person)

• Post-Game Fireworks

Sunday, May 24, 6:05 p.m.

• Post-Game Fireworks

• Baseball BINGO: Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Operation: Military Appreciation: Service Members get $3 off General Admission and Field Reserved tickets by presenting a Military ID (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window) | Presented By Mid-South Ford Dealers

Six-game homestand against Frisco

Tuesday, May 26, 6:35 p.m.

• Dog Day: Human fans can get $3 Berm tickets by bringing their dog to the game (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window). NOTE: Dogs are only allowed in the Berm areas | Presented By Hollywood Feed

Wednesday, May 27, 6:35 p.m.

• Dog Day: Human fans can get $3 Berm tickets by bringing their dog to the game (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window). NOTE: Dogs are only allowed in the Berm areas | Presented By Hollywood Feed

Thursday, May 28, 6:35 p.m.

• $3 Thursday: Enjoy an amazing value for the whole family and the best patio in Central Arkansas! Get $3 General Admission or Beer Garden tickets at a WinChoice Box Office Window. Plus, feed the whole crew for less with select concession items for $3 each!

• Singles Night: Let the Travs help turn a single into a double! Join us at the ballpark for a pre-game “Singles Mingle” event.

Friday, May 29, 7:05 p.m.

• Fireworks Friday: Presented By Baldwin & Shell Construction

Saturday, May 30, 6:05 p.m.

• Faith & Family Night: The perfect night for a church group outing! | Presented By Hickingbotham Investments

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank

Sunday, May 31, 1:35 p.m.

• Fiesta de Diamantes: The Travs will take the field as the Diamantes de Arkansas in salute of Hispanic Heritage!

• Kids Baseball Clinic: Kids 13 and under are invited to join Travs players on field for a baseball clinic starting at noon! Instruction will last approximately 45 minutes. | Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank

• Baseball BINGO: Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Operation: Military Appreciation: Service Members get $3 off General Admission and Field Reserved tickets by presenting a Military ID (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window) | Presented By Mid-South Ford Dealers

• Family Sunday Deal: Get $3 General Admission tickets by presenting a physical or digital church bulletin (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window).

Leave a comment

Health

Pandemic deaths unknown

The state Department of Health didn’t update the state’s dashboard this week, again, and deaths still total 532 for the past year. There’s no tab created for 2025 either and the virus has now killed 14,162 Arkansans since the pandemic began then. That would mean the pandemic death toll has now passed Marion’s 13,635 people, the state’s 29th largest city.

Covid toolkit

There’s now a one-stop shop to learn about vaccination sites and other Covid related information. Click here to learn more.

If you don’t want to get sick and die, there’s some things you can do:

• Get vaccinated

• Get boosted

• Wear a mask

• Avoid crowds

Subscribe if you like, pay if you can

Note to subscribers: An annual or monthly subscription is billed to your debit or credit card as ARKANSAS.SUBSTACK.COM and if you have questions, please email arkansas@substack.com. Thanks for reading and subscribing!

The Headlines

• MEETINGS:The North Little Rock School Board will have a workshop at 5:30 p.m. tonight at the district’s administration building. The North Little Rock City Council will meet next Monday night at City Hall. The meetings will be livestreamed on the respective YouTube channels and the public is welcome.

• EVENTS: There’s still ham in the fridge! And a blessed Pascha to the Orthodox, who will celebrate Saturday night and into Sunday morning for Orthodox Easter. In less blessed news, the deadline to file taxes is next week. So get on it, if you haven’t.. In somewhat better news, the Harlem Globetrotters will be at Simmons Bank Arena in downtown North Little Rock in a rescheduled game from this winter. You may have forgotten, but they were supposed to play the night the snowcrete hit.

Subscribe if you like, pay if you can

Fire and Ice: Maumelle Area Chamber of Commerce has awards banquet

The Maumelle Area Chamber of Commerce hosted its Annual Awards Banquet last week at Venue 10, bringing together business leaders, community members, and elected officials to celebrate a year of growth, service, and achievement across the Maumelle community.

• For an online photo gallery, click here.

The evening featured a networking reception, a year-in-review presentation, remarks from Maumelle Mayour Caleb Norris, and a keynote address from Arkansas native and renowned commentator Rex Nelson. The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Chamber’s annual awards, recognizing individuals and organizations that have made a significant impact in Maumelle.

“This event is one of our favorite nights of the year because it allows us to pause and celebrate the people and businesses that make Maumelle such a special place,” said Chamber President & CEO Kellie Wall. “Each of our award winners represents the very best of our community.”

2026 Annual Award Winners

The Chamber proudly recognized the following honorees:

• Business of the Year: Ski Brothers Heating & Air

• Person of the Year: Adam Xaysuda – Maumelle Lions Club

• Veteran of the Year: Fire Chief Beau Buford

• Educator of the Year: Michael Williamson – Maumelle Middle/High School

• Student of the Year: Kendyl Forte – Maumelle High School

• Volunteer of the Year: Sandra Finley – First Service Bank

• Ambassador of the Year: Christie Drake - Dyermark

• Impact Award: Rob McGill – Academics Plus Charter School

In addition, a special Guardian Award was presented to Police Chief Cory Pickard in recognition of his distinguished career and service to the Maumelle community.

The awards program highlighted the extraordinary leadership, service, and dedication demonstrated by this year’s recipients, from business innovation and educational impact to volunteerism and public service.

Recognizing Our Sponsors

The Chamber extends its deepest appreciation to all sponsors who made the evening possible. A special thank you to our top sponsors:

• Venue 10 (Diamond Sponsor)

• First Service Bank (Diamond Sponsor)

• Ski Brothers Heat & Air (Reception Sponsor)

• MidArk Insurance Maumelle – Waylon Biggs Agency (Award Sponsor)

Their continued investment in the Chamber and the Maumelle community plays a vital role in supporting events and initiatives that drive connection and growth.

The Chamber also recognized numerous additional sponsors and partners whose contributions helped bring the event to life.

A Night to Remember

The banquet also included the ceremonial passing of the gavel, welcoming Abbey Redmon as the 2026 Chairwoman of the Board, and recognizing the leadership and service of outgoing Chair Adam Cunningham.

As the Chamber looks ahead, the success of this year’s banquet reflects the strength of the Maumelle community and the shared commitment to building a vibrant future.

For more information about the Maumelle Area Chamber of Commerce and upcoming events, please visit www.maumellechamber.com or contact the Chamber office.

Subscribe if you like, pay if you can

AVID Awards today at Sylvan Hills High School

The Pulaski County Special School District will host an AVID award ceremony at 10 a.m., today, at the Performing Arts Center at Sylvan Hills High School.

More than 100 graduating seniors from each of the district’s four high schools will be presented with an AVID stole and the total scholarship amounts offered to each will also be announced. The total for all the students is more than $8.8 million.

The 108 graduating AVID seniors are from Joe T. Robinson, Maumelle, Mills and Sylvan Hills high schools

Subscribe now

Mountain View to host folk festival

The 64th annual Folk Festival will be held in Mountain View on April 17 and 18 and the Artisans Market on the Square will be open for business.

Located on the grass north of the Courthouse next to Mountain View Music, hours are Friday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The market will feature arts and crafts from Arkansas Craft Guild members and guests and among the items on sale will be jewelry and pottery, Ozark woodcrafts, quilts, glass beads, stained glass, whipped candles, and leather bags.

Among the artisans are Dana Finimore, at Rare Birds Studio, who makes functional and art pottery, Metalsmith Cindy Kopack, with Whippoorwill Mountain Jewelry, has a selection of hammered silver, copper and brass earrings, necklaces and bracelets, some combined with precious stones. Master glass artists Tom and Sage Holland, Glass Beadmakers, bring colorful flame-worked bead jewelry and sculptural pieces to share with the public. Michael and Ethan Hicks, ro’ark leather return to the Market with hand-stitched leather bags and wallets.

Also, Oddbowlz Ceramics’ Greg Hall will bring functional pottery bowls, mugs and soup bowls. Mike Mowery, MTM Woodworking, shows his turned wooden kitchenware, cutting boards, and board games. Norma and Martie Matthews, NM Quilts and Embroidery, with Martie’s useful and decorative wooden wares have been at Artisans Market for years. Gynna Sutherland, A Touch O’Glass, brings custom stained glass and hand-cut scrollwork frames.

New to the mix is CJ Huber, with Money Bender, who makes rings, earrings, and necklaces from antique and modern coins, including motorcycle gremlin bells and keychains, plus Epoxy/wood charcuterie boards. Cristina Wilcox, Whipped Candle Co. makes handcrafted whipped candles that combine dessert-inspired artistry with CleanScent fragrance and clean-burning wax, designed to be both beautiful and functional. Author John Sajdak’s Whisker Tales is a series of dual-perspective illustrated storybooks written and art-directed by John in both hard and soft covers.

The Arkansas Craft Guild & Gallery, 104 E. Main, is sponsor of the Artisans Market. Demonstrating wildlife painting on cedarwood in the Gallery during Folk Festival will be Loretta Babak, Herpel Heritage, open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Loretta Babak will be demonstrating painting April 18 inside the Arkansas Craft Guild & Gallery, 104 E Main, Mountain View, where her art can be purchased. T

Her subject matter ranges from wildlife, natural scenery, and seascapes to pet portraits. She paints in oil, acrylic and watercolor on canvas, cedarwood, and on glass in reverse. Locally her best selling pieces are trout and turkeys painted on cedarwood. Reverse glass painting is almost a dying art, yet she continues to enjoy this method, shown here, the “Red Dot Butterfly.’

Loretta has served as Vice President of the Arkansas Craft Guild for three years and is currently on the Board of Directors. She volunteers once a month as hostess of the Gallery, helping customers with their purchases, usually on a Friday or Saturday.

Loretta maintains membership in the Mountain View Art Guild, Mid-Southern Watercolorists, the Palette Art League, American Women Artists, American Impressionist Society, as well as the Arkansas Craft Guild, which gives her the opportunity to participate in functions with like-minded people. She also participates in the Off the Beaten Path Studio Tour on Sept. 25-27/

Share

Sparklight opens Spring 2026 Charitable Giving Fund applications

Sparklight, a leading high-speed internet provider, is now accepting applications for its Spring 2026 Charitable Giving Fund. Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Sparklight’s 24-state service areas are invited to apply for funding now through April 30.

Each year, Sparklight awards $250,000 in grants to nonprofit organizations working to strengthen the communities they serve. Funding supports initiatives in three key areas where the need is significant and the impact is lasting:

• Education and Digital Literacy

• Hunger Relief and Food Insecurity

• Community Development

“Local nonprofits are the backbone of strong communities — meeting pressing needs, creating meaningful opportunities and making a lasting difference every day,” said Jim Holanda, Sparklight CEO. “Through our Charitable Giving Fund, we’re proud to support their work and help extend their impact in the communities we serve.”

Since the Fund’s inception in 2020, Sparklight has awarded more than $1.2 million in grants to more than 275 nonprofits. These investments have supported initiatives in digital literacy, hunger relief, child and senior advocacy, housing and broader community programs.

For additional information about the Sparklight Charitable Giving Fund or to apply for a grant, please visit www.sparklight.com/charitablegiving. To learn more about Sparklight internet and mobile services, visit www.sparklight.com/internet.

Share

Sports

Upcoming Travs games

Six-game homestand against Wichita

• Today, 6:35 p.m.

• $3 Thursday: Enjoy an amazing value for the whole family and the best patio in Central Arkansas! Get $3 General Admission or Beer Garden tickets at a WinChoice Box Office Window. Plus, feed the whole crew for less with select concession items for $3 each!

• Friday, 7:05 p.m.

• Fireworks Friday: Presented By Baptist Health

• Magnet Schedule Giveaway: Make sure your fridge knows when the Travs play! | Presented By Jacksonville Parks & Recreation | 1,000 Fans (one item per person)

• Saturday, 6:05 p.m.

• Post-Game Wrestling: Time for the Main Event! Stick around after the game for post-game matches featuring the stars of Memphis Wrestling. | Presented By Midtown Billiards

• Replica Jersey Giveaway: Take home a replica of the Travs’ 125th Anniversary jersey! | Presented By Pinnacle Structures | First 1,000 Fans (one item per person) | Select sizes available while supplies last

• Magnet Schedule Giveaway: Make sure your fridge knows when the Travs play! | Presented By Jacksonville Parks & Recreation | 1,000 Fans (one item per person)

• Sunday, 1:35 p.m.

• Kids Baseball Clinic: Kids 13 and under are invited to join Travs players on field for a baseball clinic starting at noon! Instruction will last approximately 45 minutes. | Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank:

• Baseball BINGO: Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Operation: Military Appreciation: Service Members get $3 off General Admission and Field Reserved tickets by presenting a Military ID (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window) | Presented By Mid-South Ford Dealers

• Family Sunday Deal: Get $3 General Admission tickets by presenting a physical or digital church bulletin (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window)

At Tulsa, April 14-19

Six-game homestand against Corpus Christi

• Tuesday, April 21, 11:05 a.m.

• School Day: Putting the “field” in “greatest field trip ever!” | Presented By Waste Management

• Senior Day

• Wednesday. April 22, 6:35 p.m.

• Dog Day: Human fans can get $3 Berm tickets by bringing their dog to the game (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window). NOTE: Dogs are only allowed in the Berm areas | Presented By Hollywood Feed: Human fans can get $3 Berm tickets by bringing their dog to the game (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window). NOTE: Dogs are only allowed in the Berm areas | Presented By Hollywood Feed

• Thursday. April 23, 6:35 p.m.

• $3 Thursday: Enjoy an amazing value for the whole family and the best patio in Central Arkansas! Get $3 General Admission or Beer Garden tickets at a WinChoice Box Office Window. Plus, feed the whole crew for less with select concession items for $3 each!

• Singles Night: Let the Travs help turn a single into a double! Join us at the ballpark for a pre-game “Singles Mingle” event.

• Friday, April 24, 7:05 p.m.

• Fireworks Friday: Presented By Metro Disaster Specialists

• 501 Night: Join us in celebrating Central Arkansas! | Presented By Little Rock Regional Chamber of Commerce

• Saturday, April 25, 4:05 p.m.

• Bluey at the Ballpark: Wackadoo! Bluey is coming back to the Ballpark -- for real life. Information on the meet and greet with your favorite Heeler will be available soon!

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank:

• Sunday, April 26, 1:35 p.m.

• Bluey at the Ballpark: Wackadoo! Bluey is coming back to the Ballpark -- for real life. Information on the meet and greet with your favorite Heeler will be available soon!

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank:

• Baseball BINGO: Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Operation: Military Appreciation: Service Members get $3 off General Admission and Field Reserved tickets by presenting a Military ID (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window) | Presented By Mid-South Ford Dealers

At Wichita, April 28-May 3

Six-game homestand against Tulsa

• Tuesday, May 5, 6:05 p.m.

• Dog Day: Human fans can get $3 Berm tickets by bringing their dog to the game (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window). NOTE: Dogs are only allowed in the Berm areas | Presented By Hollywood Feed

• Fiesta de Diamantes: The Travs will take the field as the Diamantes de Arkansas in salute of Hispanic Heritage!

• Wednesday, May 6, 11:05 a.m.

• School Day: Putting the “field” in “greatest field trip ever!” | Presented By Summit Community Care

• Senior Day

• Thursday, May 7, 6:35 p.m.

• Mad Mallards Weekend: Join us in celebration of Central Arkansas’ obsession with waterfowl hunting! | Presented By Arkansas Ducks Unlimited

• $3 Thursday: Enjoy an amazing value for the whole family and the best patio in Central Arkansas! Get $3 General Admission or Beer Garden tickets at a WinChoice Box Office Window. Plus, feed the whole crew for less with select concession items for $3 each!

• Friday, May 8, 7:05 p.m.

• Mad Mallards Weekend: Join us in celebration of Central Arkansas’ obsession with waterfowl hunting! | Presented By Arkansas Ducks Unlimited

• Fireworks Friday

• Saturday, May 9, 4:05 p.m.

• Mad Mallards Weekend: Join us in celebration of Central Arkansas’ obsession with waterfowl hunting! | Presented By Arkansas Ducks Unlimited

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank

• Trucker Hat Giveaway: Celebrate the Travs’ 125th Anniversary with some limited edition headwear! | Presented By Snapple | First 1,000 Fans (one item per person)

• Sunday, May 10, 1:35 p.m.

• Mad Mallards Weekend: Join us in celebration of Central Arkansas’ obsession with waterfowl hunting! | Presented By Arkansas Ducks Unlimited

• Kids Baseball Clinic: Kids 13 and under are invited to join Travs players on field for a baseball clinic starting at noon! Instruction will last approximately 45 minutes. | Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank

• Baseball BINGO: Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Operation: Military Appreciation: Service Members get $3 off General Admission and Field Reserved tickets by presenting a Military ID (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window) | Presented By Mid-South Ford Dealers

• Family Sunday Deal: Get $3 General Admission tickets by presenting a physical or digital church bulletin (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window)

At Northwest Arkansas, May 12-17

Six-game homestand against Springfield

• Tuesday, May 19, 6:35 p.m.

• Dog Day: Human fans can get $3 Berm tickets by bringing their dog to the game (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window). NOTE: Dogs are only allowed in the Berm areas | Presented By Hollywood Feed

• Wednesday, May 20, 6:35 p.m.

• Dog Day: Human fans can get $3 Berm tickets by bringing their dog to the game (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window). NOTE: Dogs are only allowed in the Berm areas | Presented By Hollywood Feed

• Thursday, May 21, 6:35 p.m.

• $3 Thursday: Enjoy an amazing value for the whole family and the best patio in Central Arkansas! Get $3 General Admission or Beer Garden tickets at a WinChoice Box Office Window. Plus, feed the whole crew for less with select concession items for $3 each!

• Friday, May 22, 7:05 p.m.

• Fireworks Friday: Presented By Bank OZK

• Saturday, May 23, 6:35 p.m.

• Cal Raleigh Bobblecard Giveaway: Presented By Hardee’s | First 1,000 Fans (one item per person)

• Post-Game Fireworks

• Sunday, May 24, 6:05 p.m.

• Post-Game Fireworks

• Baseball BINGO: Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Operation: Military Appreciation: Service Members get $3 off General Admission and Field Reserved tickets by presenting a Military ID (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window) | Presented By Mid-South Ford Dealers

Six-game homestand against Frisco

• Tuesday, May 26, 6:35 p.m.

• Dog Day: Human fans can get $3 Berm tickets by bringing their dog to the game (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window). NOTE: Dogs are only allowed in the Berm areas | Presented By Hollywood Feed

• Wednesday, May 27, 6:35 p.m.

• Dog Day: Human fans can get $3 Berm tickets by bringing their dog to the game (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window). NOTE: Dogs are only allowed in the Berm areas | Presented By Hollywood Feed

• Thursday, May 28, 6:35 p.m.

• $3 Thursday: Enjoy an amazing value for the whole family and the best patio in Central Arkansas! Get $3 General Admission or Beer Garden tickets at a WinChoice Box Office Window. Plus, feed the whole crew for less with select concession items for $3 each!

• Singles Night: Let the Travs help turn a single into a double! Join us at the ballpark for a pre-game “Singles Mingle” event.

• Friday, May 29, 7:05 p.m.

• Fireworks Friday: Presented By Baldwin & Shell Construction

• Saturday, May 30, 6:05 p.m.

• Faith & Family Night: The perfect night for a church group outing! | Presented By Hickingbotham Investments

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank

• Sunday, May 31, 1:35 p.m.

• Fiesta de Diamantes: The Travs will take the field as the Diamantes de Arkansas in salute of Hispanic Heritage!

• Kids Baseball Clinic: Kids 13 and under are invited to join Travs players on field for a baseball clinic starting at noon! Instruction will last approximately 45 minutes. | Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank

• Baseball BINGO: Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Operation: Military Appreciation: Service Members get $3 off General Admission and Field Reserved tickets by presenting a Military ID (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window) | Presented By Mid-South Ford Dealers

• Family Sunday Deal: Get $3 General Admission tickets by presenting a physical or digital church bulletin (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window).

Leave a comment

Health

Pandemic deaths unknown

The state Department of Health didn’t update the state’s dashboard this week, again, and deaths still total 532 for the past year. There’s no tab created for 2025 either and the virus has now killed 14,162 Arkansans since the pandemic began then. That would mean the pandemic death toll has now passed Marion’s 13,635 people, the state’s 29th largest city.

Covid toolkit

There’s now a one-stop shop to learn about vaccination sites and other Covid related information. Click here to learn more.

If you don’t want to get sick and die, there’s some things you can do:

• Get vaccinated

• Get boosted

• Wear a mask

• Avoid crowds

Subscribe if you like, pay if you can

Note to subscribers: An annual or monthly subscription is billed to your debit or credit card as ARKANSAS.SUBSTACK.COM and if you have questions, please email arkansas@substack.com. Thanks for reading and subscribing!

The Headlines

• MEETING: The North Little Rock School Board will have a special call meeting and workshop at 5:30 p.m. tonight at the district’s administration building. Among the agenda items is an executive session to discuss personnel. Given Daryl Fimple’s move from winning his sixth state title to taking over the Arkansas Tech women’s basketball program, that, along with a replacement, will very likely be discussed. For more on Fimple’s move, keep scrolling. As for his replacement, Kyra Collier is right there, and already on staff. A guard who won a state title for North Little Rock, and Fimple, then had a decorated four-year career at UALR and has been a college assistant at Grambling, among other stops. She makes sense, so just do it. The Maumelle City Council will meet next Monday night at City Hall. The meeting will be livestreamed on YouTube and the public is welcome.

• EVENTS: Easter is this Sunday! There’s already a ham in the fridge. There’s also a bevy of other things with Holy Week – Maundy Thursday, Good Friday – going on, so just do as your faith tradition demands. Also, a blessed Pascha to the Orthodox, who will celebrate the following Sunday as the schism continues, at least for now. There’s also Easter Egg hunts and for more on that, keep scrolling.

God Speed, Artemis II

This country is a flawed mess that also does great things. One of those things lifted off Wednesday afternoon, the Artemis II and the U.S. is headed back to the moon. Or at least around it before returning to Earth.

Personally, I’d think I’d stay in space and given the comforts of home they have on board, they could sit a spell as the capsule has a toilet.

In news you can use, and win bar trivia with, that makes 10 toilets in space right now.

The breakdown is:

• International Space Station: 4

• Crew Dragon Docked at ISS: 1

• Soyuz Docked at ISS: 1

• Tiangong Space Station: 2

• Shenzhou Docked at TSS: 1

• Artemis II enroute to the Moon: 1

Lots of 1s and 2s in that mix, as is fitting for space toilets.

Subscribe if you like, pay if you can

Maumelle Chamber to have annual banquet tonight

The Maumelle Area Chamber of Commerce will host its highly anticipated Annual Banquet from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.tonight at Venue 10. The evening will celebrate the Chamber’s accomplishments in 2025 while recognizing the individuals and businesses that have made a lasting impact on the Maumelle community.

The event will begin with a networking reception from 6:00–6:45 p.m., providing attendees an opportunity to connect with local leaders, business owners, and community partners before the awards program begins.

The banquet will highlight the Chamber’s progress over the past year and honor outstanding members of the community through several prestigious awards, including:

• Business of the Year

• Person of the Year

• Veteran of the Year

• Student of the Year

• Educator of the Year

In addition to these recognitions, the Chamber will present special honors celebrating individuals and organizations whose dedication has helped strengthen Maumelle’s business environment and community spirit.

The evening will also feature a special guest presentation from Arkansas author, historian, and public affairs leader Rex Nelson. A widely respected voice on Arkansas history, culture, and economic development, Nelson has spent decades highlighting the stories and people that shape the Natural State. His remarks will provide insight into Arkansas’ heritage, leadership, and the importance of strong local communities like Maumelle.

“This banquet is one of our favorite nights of the year,” said Kellie Wall, President and CEO of the Maumelle Area Chamber of Commerce. “It gives us the opportunity to reflect on the incredible accomplishments of our business community, celebrate the people who make Maumelle such a special place, and look ahead to the opportunities that lie before us.”

Adding excitement to the evening, the Chamber will also host a raffle for a stunning $10,000 flawless diamond, perfectly complementing this year’s “Fire & Ice” theme. Raffle tickets are available now, and participants do not need to be present to win.

Tickets for the banquet are currently on sale. Community members, business leaders, and supporters are encouraged to attend and take part in this special evening celebrating Maumelle’s achievements and those who help drive its success.

For more information or to purchase banquet or raffle tickets, please contact the Maumelle Area Chamber of Commerce at 501-851-9700 or bri@maumellechamber.com.

Subscribe if you like, pay if you can

North Little Rock to host book signing with Bradford

The Patrick Henry Hays Senior Center, 401 Pershing Blvd. in North Little Rock, will host a special book signing event with Arkansas author and cancer survivor Lonenetta Bradford on Wednesday, April 8, from 10 a.m. until noon.

Bradford will be signing copies of her inspiring new book, Three Years in the Storm, a powerful testimony of faith, resilience, and the fight against lymphoma. Seniors attending the event will receive a special discounted price of $8.

Subscribe now

Easter Egg hunts

North Little Rock community centers and parks are rolling out a full basket of spring fun, and you’re invited to hop in on every moment.

Easter Events happening across North Little Rock

• Glenview City Park – Rose City Community Center Easter Egg Hunt

• Sherman Park – Protho Lodge Annual Easter Egg Hunt

• North Heights Community Center – Easter Egg Hunt with Levy UMC

• Glenview Community Center – Eggstravaganza

• Burns Park Soccer Complex 1 – Burns Park Easter Egg Hunt

For more details, click the flyers below.

Share

Sparklight opens Spring 2026 Charitable Giving Fund applications

Sparklight, a leading high-speed internet provider, is now accepting applications for its Spring 2026 Charitable Giving Fund. Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Sparklight’s 24-state service areas are invited to apply for funding from April 1‒30.

Each year, Sparklight awards $250,000 in grants to nonprofit organizations working to strengthen the communities they serve. Funding supports initiatives in three key areas where the need is significant and the impact is lasting:

• Education and Digital Literacy

• Hunger Relief and Food Insecurity

• Community Development

“Local nonprofits are the backbone of strong communities — meeting pressing needs, creating meaningful opportunities and making a lasting difference every day,” said Jim Holanda, Sparklight CEO. “Through our Charitable Giving Fund, we’re proud to support their work and help extend their impact in the communities we serve.”

Since the Fund’s inception in 2020, Sparklight has awarded more than $1.2 million in grants to more than 275 nonprofits. These investments have supported initiatives in digital literacy, hunger relief, child and senior advocacy, housing and broader community programs.

For additional information about the Sparklight Charitable Giving Fund or to apply for a grant, please visit www.sparklight.com/charitablegiving. To learn more about Sparklight internet and mobile services, visit www.sparklight.com/internet.

Share

Sports

Daryl Fimple hired to lead Arkansas Tech’s Golden Suns basketball program

By Sam Strasner/ATU University Relations

It’s a circle that began in 1995 when Joe Foley asked a recently retired Arkansas Tech University men’s basketball player if he had an interest in coaching.

Thirty-one years later, that circle is now complete and one of the winningest programs in NCAA Division II women’s basketball history has its new leader.

Daryl Fimple, Arkansas Tech alumnus and six-time state champion at the highest classification of Arkansas high school girls’ basketball, is the seventh head coach in the half-century history of intercollegiate women’s basketball at Arkansas Tech.

Fimple’s appointment was announced on Monday, March 30, by Abby Davis, ATU director of athletics.

“Daryl has been preparing for this opportunity since he was 10 years old,” said Davis. “From his first exposure to Arkansas Tech through Marty Barnes’ basketball camps to his days as a player for the Wonder Boys and continuing through his service on Joe Foley’s women’s basketball staff as a student assistant, Daryl became encultured in Arkansas Tech basketball from an early age. He took what he learned from Coach Barnes and Coach Foley and became one of the most successful high school basketball coaches in Arkansas history. In Coach Fimple, we have identified an individual who has the knowledge, the relationships and the will necessary to add to the incredible championship tradition of Golden Suns basketball.”

Arkansas Tech will celebrate its 50th season of intercollegiate women’s basketball in 2026-27. The Golden Suns have won two NAIA national championships, earned one NCAA Division II national runner-up finish, made seven national tournament semifinal berths, won four NCAA Division II region championships, claimed 26 regular season conference titles and recorded 35 20-win seasons since the founding of the program in 1977-78.

Under the leadership of head coaches Jim Yeager (1977-82), Jim Dickerson (1982-87), Joe Foley (1987-2003), Carin Pinion-McNabb (2003-05), Todd Schaefer (2005-07) and Dave Wilbers (2007-26), the Golden Suns have earned 1,125 all-time wins, which ranks top 10 in NCAA Division II women’s basketball history.

Fimple won 668 games during a high school girls’ basketball head coaching career that included stints at Lonoke High School (1999-2005) and North Little Rock High School (2005-26).

North Little Rock had never won a state championship in girls’ basketball before Fimple’s arrival. The Lady Charging Wildcats won the title for Arkansas’ largest classification in his first season (2006) and his last (2026), with four more state championships (2010, 2016, 2018 and 2022) in between for a total of six state titles.

Fimple’s North Little Rock teams reached the state semifinals 17 times and the state championship game nine times. He led the Lady Charging Wildcats to 16 conference championships, and 56 of his players signed scholarships to continue their athletic careers at the collegiate level.

“I am deeply honored to accept the head women’s basketball coach position at Arkansas Tech University,” said Fimple. “Returning to the program where my career began as a student coach is a true full‑circle moment — I am committed to honoring the university’s proud tradition, developing champions on and off the court, and building a future our community can be proud of. Thank you for this incredible opportunity!”

Fimple graduated from Alma High School and enrolled at Arkansas Tech in 1993.

A reserve guard with the Arkansas Tech men’s basketball program from 1993-95, Fimple helped the Wonder Boys win two Arkansas Intercollegiate Conference championships and reach the semifinals of the 1995 NAIA National Tournament, matching the best national tournament finish in program history.

Shortly after he decided to stop playing following his sophomore year, Fimple was invited by Foley to become a student assistant with the Arkansas Tech women’s basketball program.

Fimple accepted the life-changing apprenticeship under Foley, who is the all-time leader in basketball coaching victories at Arkansas Tech (456), a two-time NAIA national champion (1992 and 1993) and a member of the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame.

“Like all of us, Daryl went through the growing process,” said Foley. “He started at Lonoke…he won there, and then he got to North Little Rock and turned it into a perennial powerhouse. He’s grown into a fabulous coach who has a great rapport with his kids. They love playing for him. He knows how to have fun, but he knows how to work hard, too.

“He will bring in good talent, and he knows how to work with it and get the best out of them,” continued Foley. “We recruited some of his kids (at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock), so I know how disciplined they are and how well-prepared they are. He’ll work hard at it. (ATU) has made a great choice. He’ll bring a great amount of enthusiasm to that program, and I think he’ll be great.”

Share

The Boys are Back: Travs baseball returns to North Little Rock

The Arkansas Travelers open the 2026 season this week with a three-game road swing at Midland, deep in the heart of West Texas.

First game is at 7 p.m. against the Rockhounds, with the series concluding on Sunday.

Monday’s a travel and the Travs are at Dickey-Stephens Park in North Little Rock next Tuesday when they host the Wichita Wind Surge.

This marks the start of the 125th season of Arkansas Travelers baseball, one of the oldest and most storied teams in minor-league baseball history.

Double-A is again going with the six game series model with most weeks alternating between home and away but not always and not always six games, as this week’s three-game series stands as proof.

The Travs are again affiliated with the Seattle Mariners, but there’s been some changes at the top as Rich Thompson takes the helm as manager, Thompson was previously the head coach and athletics director at National Park College in Hot Springs. Joining him on staff are: José Umbria (Bench Coach), Cameron Ming (Pitching Coach) and Jordan Cowan (Hitting Coach).

Also returning to Arkansas are athletic trainer Dan LaBerry returns as athletic trainer, while Kyle Briggs is the strength coach.

Thompson’s background is a little bit different. A native of Australia, he spent parts of six seasons in the show, with 82 games as a relief pitcher. The bulk of which were with the Angels in 2011 with 44 appearances that season.

He also pitched for the Travs in 2006 and 2007, with a total of 63 appearances on the mound and also had a spot on the 2007 MLB All-Star Futures game in 2007. He also spent 12 seasons playing for the Australian National Team and won a Silver Medal in the 2004 Summer Olympics, and also appeared in two World Baseball Classics, and two International Baseball World Cups.

Given his Australian heritage, he’s probably tingly for Bluey Night. I’d wager one million dollarbucks on it.

“I’m excited to be back with the Travelers,” Thompson said in a press release. “I wouldn’t be an Arkansan without the Travs and I’m looking forward to making the jump back into professional baseball. It is great to give back to the game and these players. I am thrilled to be part of the future of the Travs and the Mariners.”

As part of the 125th anniversary celebration, the Travs will have a number of promotions this season. This is also the team’s 60th year in the Texas League, after a brief stint as the AAA affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies.

On to the games.

Upcoming games

Six-game homestand against Wichita

• Tuesday, April 7, 6:05 p.m.

• Opening Night!

• Welcome the boys back to CHI St. Vincent Field at Dickey-Stephens Park as we kick off the 125th Year of Travelers Baseball! | Presented By Charbroil

• Magnet Schedule Giveaway: Make sure your fridge knows when the Travs play! | Presented By Jacksonville Parks & Recreation | 1,000 Fans (one item per person)

• Wednesday, April 8, 11:05 a.m.

• School Day: Putting the “field” in “greatest field trip ever!” | Presented By Summit Community Care

• Senior Day: Presented By ArchWell Health

• Thursday, April 9, 6:35 p.m.

• $3 Thursday: Enjoy an amazing value for the whole family and the best patio in Central Arkansas! Get $3 General Admission or Beer Garden tickets at a WinChoice Box Office Window. Plus, feed the whole crew for less with select concession items for $3 each!

• Friday, April 10, 7:05 p.m.

• Fireworks Friday: Presented By Baptist Health

• Magnet Schedule Giveaway: Make sure your fridge knows when the Travs play! | Presented By Jacksonville Parks & Recreation | 1,000 Fans (one item per person)

• Saturday, April 11, 6:05 p.m.

• Post-Game Wrestling: Time for the Main Event! Stick around after the game for post-game matches featuring the stars of Memphis Wrestling. | Presented By Midtown Billiards

• Replica Jersey Giveaway: Take home a replica of the Travs’ 125th Anniversary jersey! | Presented By Pinnacle Structures | First 1,000 Fans (one item per person) | Select sizes available while supplies last

• Magnet Schedule Giveaway: Make sure your fridge knows when the Travs play! | Presented By Jacksonville Parks & Recreation | 1,000 Fans (one item per person)

• Sunday, April 12, 1:35 p.m.

• Kids Baseball Clinic: Kids 13 and under are invited to join Travs players on field for a baseball clinic starting at noon! Instruction will last approximately 45 minutes. | Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank:

• Baseball BINGO: Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Operation: Military Appreciation: Service Members get $3 off General Admission and Field Reserved tickets by presenting a Military ID (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window) | Presented By Mid-South Ford Dealers

• Family Sunday Deal: Get $3 General Admission tickets by presenting a physical or digital church bulletin (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window)

At Tulsa, April 14-19

Six-game homestand against Corpus Christi

• Tuesday, April 21, 11:05 a.m.

• School Day: Putting the “field” in “greatest field trip ever!” | Presented By Waste Management

• Senior Day

• Wednesday. April 22, 6:35 p.m.

• Dog Day: Human fans can get $3 Berm tickets by bringing their dog to the game (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window). NOTE: Dogs are only allowed in the Berm areas | Presented By Hollywood Feed: Human fans can get $3 Berm tickets by bringing their dog to the game (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window). NOTE: Dogs are only allowed in the Berm areas | Presented By Hollywood Feed

• Thursday. April 23, 6:35 p.m.

• $3 Thursday: Enjoy an amazing value for the whole family and the best patio in Central Arkansas! Get $3 General Admission or Beer Garden tickets at a WinChoice Box Office Window. Plus, feed the whole crew for less with select concession items for $3 each!

• Singles Night: Let the Travs help turn a single into a double! Join us at the ballpark for a pre-game “Singles Mingle” event.

• Friday, April 24, 7:05 p.m.

• Fireworks Friday: Presented By Metro Disaster Specialists

• 501 Night: Join us in celebrating Central Arkansas! | Presented By Little Rock Regional Chamber of Commerce

• Saturday, April 25, 4:05 p.m.

• Bluey at the Ballpark: Wackadoo! Bluey is coming back to the Ballpark -- for real life. Information on the meet and greet with your favorite Heeler will be available soon!

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank:

• Sunday, April 26, 1:35 p.m.

• Bluey at the Ballpark: Wackadoo! Bluey is coming back to the Ballpark -- for real life. Information on the meet and greet with your favorite Heeler will be available soon!

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank:

• Baseball BINGO: Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Operation: Military Appreciation: Service Members get $3 off General Admission and Field Reserved tickets by presenting a Military ID (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window) | Presented By Mid-South Ford Dealers

At Wichita, April 28-May 3

Six-game homestand against Tulsa

• Tuesday, May 5, 6:05 p.m.

• Dog Day: Human fans can get $3 Berm tickets by bringing their dog to the game (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window). NOTE: Dogs are only allowed in the Berm areas | Presented By Hollywood Feed

• Fiesta de Diamantes: The Travs will take the field as the Diamantes de Arkansas in salute of Hispanic Heritage!

• Wednesday, May 6, 11:05 a.m.

• School Day: Putting the “field” in “greatest field trip ever!” | Presented By Summit Community Care

• Senior Day

• Thursday, May 7, 6:35 p.m.

• Mad Mallards Weekend: Join us in celebration of Central Arkansas’ obsession with waterfowl hunting! | Presented By Arkansas Ducks Unlimited

• $3 Thursday: Enjoy an amazing value for the whole family and the best patio in Central Arkansas! Get $3 General Admission or Beer Garden tickets at a WinChoice Box Office Window. Plus, feed the whole crew for less with select concession items for $3 each!

• Friday, May 8, 7:05 p.m.

• Mad Mallards Weekend: Join us in celebration of Central Arkansas’ obsession with waterfowl hunting! | Presented By Arkansas Ducks Unlimited

• Fireworks Friday

• Saturday, May 9, 4:05 p.m.

• Mad Mallards Weekend: Join us in celebration of Central Arkansas’ obsession with waterfowl hunting! | Presented By Arkansas Ducks Unlimited

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank

• Trucker Hat Giveaway: Celebrate the Travs’ 125th Anniversary with some limited edition headwear! | Presented By Snapple | First 1,000 Fans (one item per person)

• Sunday, May 10, 1:35 p.m.

• Mad Mallards Weekend: Join us in celebration of Central Arkansas’ obsession with waterfowl hunting! | Presented By Arkansas Ducks Unlimited

• Kids Baseball Clinic: Kids 13 and under are invited to join Travs players on field for a baseball clinic starting at noon! Instruction will last approximately 45 minutes. | Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank

• Baseball BINGO: Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Operation: Military Appreciation: Service Members get $3 off General Admission and Field Reserved tickets by presenting a Military ID (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window) | Presented By Mid-South Ford Dealers

• Family Sunday Deal: Get $3 General Admission tickets by presenting a physical or digital church bulletin (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window)

At Northwest Arkansas, May 12-17

Six-game homestand against Springfield

• Tuesday, May 19, 6:35 p.m.

• Dog Day: Human fans can get $3 Berm tickets by bringing their dog to the game (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window). NOTE: Dogs are only allowed in the Berm areas | Presented By Hollywood Feed

• Wednesday, May 20, 6:35 p.m.

• Dog Day: Human fans can get $3 Berm tickets by bringing their dog to the game (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window). NOTE: Dogs are only allowed in the Berm areas | Presented By Hollywood Feed

• Thursday, May 21, 6:35 p.m.

• $3 Thursday: Enjoy an amazing value for the whole family and the best patio in Central Arkansas! Get $3 General Admission or Beer Garden tickets at a WinChoice Box Office Window. Plus, feed the whole crew for less with select concession items for $3 each!

• Friday, May 22, 7:05 p.m.

• Fireworks Friday: Presented By Bank OZK

• Saturday, May 23, 6:35 p.m.

• Cal Raleigh Bobblecard Giveaway: Presented By Hardee’s | First 1,000 Fans (one item per person)

• Post-Game Fireworks

• Sunday, May 24, 6:05 p.m.

• Post-Game Fireworks

• Baseball BINGO: Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Operation: Military Appreciation: Service Members get $3 off General Admission and Field Reserved tickets by presenting a Military ID (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window) | Presented By Mid-South Ford Dealers

Six-game homestand against Frisco

• Tuesday, May 26, 6:35 p.m.

• Dog Day: Human fans can get $3 Berm tickets by bringing their dog to the game (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window). NOTE: Dogs are only allowed in the Berm areas | Presented By Hollywood Feed

• Wednesday, May 27, 6:35 p.m.

• Dog Day: Human fans can get $3 Berm tickets by bringing their dog to the game (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window). NOTE: Dogs are only allowed in the Berm areas | Presented By Hollywood Feed

• Thursday, May 28, 6:35 p.m.

• $3 Thursday: Enjoy an amazing value for the whole family and the best patio in Central Arkansas! Get $3 General Admission or Beer Garden tickets at a WinChoice Box Office Window. Plus, feed the whole crew for less with select concession items for $3 each!

• Singles Night: Let the Travs help turn a single into a double! Join us at the ballpark for a pre-game “Singles Mingle” event.

• Friday, May 29, 7:05 p.m.

• Fireworks Friday: Presented By Baldwin & Shell Construction

• Saturday, May 30, 6:05 p.m.

• Faith & Family Night: The perfect night for a church group outing! | Presented By Hickingbotham Investments

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank

• Sunday, May 31, 1:35 p.m.

• Fiesta de Diamantes: The Travs will take the field as the Diamantes de Arkansas in salute of Hispanic Heritage!

• Kids Baseball Clinic: Kids 13 and under are invited to join Travs players on field for a baseball clinic starting at noon! Instruction will last approximately 45 minutes. | Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Kids Run the Bases: Kids 13 and under are invited to run the same basepaths the Travs run after the game! | Presented By First Community Bank

• Baseball BINGO: Presented By Arkansas Brighter Future 529

• Operation: Military Appreciation: Service Members get $3 off General Admission and Field Reserved tickets by presenting a Military ID (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window) | Presented By Mid-South Ford Dealers

• Family Sunday Deal: Get $3 General Admission tickets by presenting a physical or digital church bulletin (only available at a WinChoice Box Office Window).

Leave a comment

Health

Pandemic deaths unknown

The state Department of Health didn’t update the state’s dashboard this week, again, and deaths still total 532 for the past year. There’s no tab created for 2025 either and the virus has now killed 14,162 Arkansans since the pandemic began then. That would mean the pandemic death toll has now passed Marion’s 13,635 people, the state’s 29th largest city.

Covid toolkit

There’s now a one-stop shop to learn about vaccination sites and other Covid related information. Click here to learn more.

If you don’t want to get sick and die, there’s some things you can do:

• Get vaccinated

• Get boosted

• Wear a mask

• Avoid crowds

Subscribe if you like, pay if you can

Note to subscribers: An annual or monthly subscription is billed to your debit or credit card as ARKANSAS.SUBSTACK.COM and if you have questions, please email arkansas@substack.com. Thanks for reading and subscribing!

The Headlines

• MEETING: The Maunelle Planning Commission meets at 6:30 p.m. tonight and for more, keep scrolling. Since next Monday is the fifth Monday of the month, there’s no City Council meetings North of the River. Enjoy Spring Break city council members, etc.

• EVENTS: Arkansas plays Arizona at 8:45 p.m. tonight in the Sweet 16. The game will be televised by CBS and the winner plays again Saturday for a trip to the Final Four. This is Arkansas’s fifth trip to the Sweet 16 in the last six years but haven’t been to the Final Four in 31 years with the last time being in 1995. Or also known at the year the Hogs lost in the championship game to UCLA. Read the pregame notes by clicking here. But no spoilers as some of us have tickets to the Jason Isbell show at the Robinson Center tonight.

Thanks Collin!

Collin Scott’s internship at ArkansasNewsroom.com has come to an end and a big thank you to him for doing some fine work covering high school sports. Also thanks to Rob Moritz and Dr. Donna Lampkin Stephens at UCA for including the site in the school’s internship program.

Subscribe if you like, pay if you can

Maumelle Planning Commission meets tonight

It should be a quick meeting for the Maumelle Planning Commission tonight.

Should be, of course, carries some weight but there’s only two items of business on the agenda and both have requested to be deferred to April 23.

So, there’s really no business but for the agenda, click here.

The meeting is open to the public and is scheduled to start at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall.

The meeting will be livestreamed on the city’s YouTube page and we’ll report back next week on its actual length.

Share Arkansas Newsroom

Maumelle Chamber to have annual banquet April 2

The Maumelle Area Chamber of Commerce will host its highly anticipated Annual Banquet on Wednesday, April 2, from 6:00–8:30 p.m. at Venue 10. The evening will celebrate the Chamber’s accomplishments in 2025 while recognizing the individuals and businesses that have made a lasting impact on the Maumelle community.

The event will begin with a networking reception from 6:00–6:45 p.m., providing attendees an opportunity to connect with local leaders, business owners, and community partners before the awards program begins.

The banquet will highlight the Chamber’s progress over the past year and honor outstanding members of the community through several prestigious awards, including:

• Business of the Year

• Person of the Year

• Veteran of the Year

• Student of the Year

• Educator of the Year

In addition to these recognitions, the Chamber will present special honors celebrating individuals and organizations whose dedication has helped strengthen Maumelle’s business environment and community spirit.

The evening will also feature a special guest presentation from Arkansas author, historian, and public affairs leader Rex Nelson. A widely respected voice on Arkansas history, culture, and economic development, Nelson has spent decades highlighting the stories and people that shape the Natural State. His remarks will provide insight into Arkansas’ heritage, leadership, and the importance of strong local communities like Maumelle.

“This banquet is one of our favorite nights of the year,” said Kellie Wall, President and CEO of the Maumelle Area Chamber of Commerce. “It gives us the opportunity to reflect on the incredible accomplishments of our business community, celebrate the people who make Maumelle such a special place, and look ahead to the opportunities that lie before us.”

Adding excitement to the evening, the Chamber will also host a raffle for a stunning $10,000 flawless diamond, perfectly complementing this year’s “Fire & Ice” theme. Raffle tickets are available now, and participants do not need to be present to win.

Tickets for the banquet are currently on sale. Community members, business leaders, and supporters are encouraged to attend and take part in this special evening celebrating Maumelle’s achievements and those who help drive its success.

For more information or to purchase banquet or raffle tickets, please contact the Maumelle Area Chamber of Commerce at 501-851-9700 or bri@maumellechamber.com.

Maumelle Area Chamber of Commerce launches Build Maumelle

The Maumelle Area Chamber of Commerce has announced the launch of its new Entrepreneurial Support Organization called “Build Maumelle,” an initiative designed to support the growth and success of local entrepreneurs and small businesses through education, connections, and strategic resources.

Build Maumelle will serve as a hub for entrepreneurs at all stages, from startups to established businesses seeking expansion, by connecting them with mentors, capital sources, and practical tools needed to succeed in today’s competitive business environment.

“As Maumelle continues to grow, it’s important that our entrepreneurs and small businesses have the support systems they need to thrive,” said Kellie Wall, President and CEO of the Maumelle Area Chamber of Commerce. “[It] will help bring together the resources, relationships, and expertise that entrepreneurs need to start, grow, and expand their businesses right here in our community.”

The organization will host its first training session on Tuesday, March 31, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Mira at Maumelle. The event will feature a panel discussion focused on sources of capital for businesses, including funding opportunities for startup growth, business expansion, and strategic investment.

Attendees will have the opportunity to hear directly from financial professionals and capital providers, ask questions about funding options, and gain insight into navigating the financing landscape for their businesses.

The event will also include networking opportunities for entrepreneurs, business leaders, and community partners, along with heavy hors d’oeuvres and beer and wine provided for attendees by Mira at Maumelle.

The Chamber hopes the new initiative will strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Maumelle by fostering collaboration, increasing access to resources, and supporting long-term economic growth.

Entrepreneurs, small business owners, and community partners interested in attending are encouraged to participate in this inaugural session and connect with others working to build and grow businesses in the region.

For more information about the Maumelle Entrepreneurial Support Organization or to attend the event, contact the Maumelle Area Chamber of Commerce at kellie@maumellechamber.com or visit www.maumellechamber.com.

Subscribe if you like, pay if you can

Health

Pandemic deaths unknown

The state Department of Health didn’t update the state’s dashboard this week, again, and deaths still total 532 for the past year. There’s no tab created for 2025 either and the virus has now killed 14,162 Arkansans since the pandemic began then. That would mean the pandemic death toll has now passed Marion’s 13,635 people, the state’s 29th largest city.

Covid toolkit

There’s now a one-stop shop to learn about vaccination sites and other Covid related information. Click here to learn more.

If you don’t want to get sick and die, there’s some things you can do:

• Get vaccinated

• Get boosted

• Wear a mask

• Avoid crowds

Subscribe if you like, pay if you can

Note to subscribers: An annual or monthly subscription is billed to your debit or credit card as ARKANSAS.SUBSTACK.COM and if you have questions, please email arkansas@substack.com. Thanks for reading and subscribing!

The Headlines

• The North Little Rock School Board will have its regular, monthly meeting at 5:30 p.m. tonight at the district’s administration building. The North Little Rock City Council will meet next Monday night at City Hall. The meeting will be livestreamed on YouTube and the public is welcome.

• EVENTS: The best time of the year is here. And by that, I mean March Madness. Good time to call in sick and just watch basketball all day. The game of local interest is Arkansas, of course. The Hogs play Hawaii at 3:25 today on TBS and in Portland. If they win, they would face the winner of High Point-Wisconsin. The Badgers are the higher seed and the favorite. You know what else goes with basketball? Free food. As part of its opening the new Hideaway Pizza in west Little Rock. Can’t miss it, right in front of Costco. The new restaurant is having friends and family days today and Friday. Click here to reserve your time. Parties up to 4 can be done online. Larger groups require a phone call.

Subscribe if you like, pay if you can

Pickard announces retirement from Maumelle Police Department

The City of Maumelle last week announced the retirement of Maumelle Police Chief Cory Pickard, above, effective May 1, after more than 27 years of service to the Maumelle Police Department and the community.

Pickard began his career with the Maumelle Police Department on Feb. 8, 1999. Over the course of his career, he served in a variety of roles including K9 Handler, Patrol Shift Supervisor, Background Investigator, and Patrol Commander before being appointed Chief of Police in September 2019.

Maumelle Mayor Caleb Norris said, in a release, Pickard had served the city with professionalism, integrity and a deep commitment. “I want to personally thank him for his leadership and for the example he has set throughout his career,” Norris said.

Norris said he had the opportunity to work closely with Pickard long before becoming mayor.

“I worked with Chief Pickard during my time as the city’s attorney and prosecutor and had the privilege of seeing firsthand his professionalism, judgment and dedication to this community,” Norris said. “That experience gave me full confidence in appointing him as Chief of Police, and I appreciate the leadership he has provided to this department.”

During his time as chief, Pickard led the department through several significant events, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the consolidation of communications operations with the City of North Little Rock. His leadership emphasized professionalism, transparency and maintaining strong relationships between the police department and the citizens in the community.

Earlier in his career, Pickard played an important role in assisting neighboring jurisdictions during the devastating tornado outbreak in 2014 and again in 2023 when severe storms impacted surrounding communities.

Prior to becoming a police officer, Pickard served with the Sherwood Fire Department. In 2003, he deployed with the U.S. Army’s 39th Infantry Brigade as part of the 1st Cavalry Division in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, where he served in Baghdad. During his military service he was awarded the Purple Heart along with several other military honors and commendations.

Pickard is a graduate of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s National Academy in Quantico, Virginia, having completed the prestigious executive leadership program in 2022.

“Serving the citizens of Maumelle alongside the men and women of this department has been the greatest honor of my career,” Pickard said. “I am grateful for the opportunity to work with such dedicated professionals and to serve a community that has always supported its police department.”

Norris said the Maumelle Police Department has developed strong leadership throughout its ranks and that experience will be important as the city begins the process of selecting its next chief.

“The Maumelle Police Department has earned a strong reputation for professionalism, service, and the trust it has built with our community,” Norris said. “My goal is to ensure a smooth transition that continues the culture the department is known for.”

Pickard’s final day with the Maumelle Police Department will be May 1.

Share Arkansas Newsroom

Maumelle Area Chamber of Commerce launches Build Maumelle

The Maumelle Area Chamber of Commerce has announced the launch of its new Entrepreneurial Support Organization called “Build Maumelle,” an initiative designed to support the growth and success of local entrepreneurs and small businesses through education, connections, and strategic resources.

Build Maumelle will serve as a hub for entrepreneurs at all stages, from startups to established businesses seeking expansion, by connecting them with mentors, capital sources, and practical tools needed to succeed in today’s competitive business environment.

“As Maumelle continues to grow, it’s important that our entrepreneurs and small businesses have the support systems they need to thrive,” said Kellie Wall, President and CEO of the Maumelle Area Chamber of Commerce. “[It] will help bring together the resources, relationships, and expertise that entrepreneurs need to start, grow, and expand their businesses right here in our community.”

The organization will host its first training session on Tuesday, March 31, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Mira at Maumelle. The event will feature a panel discussion focused on sources of capital for businesses, including funding opportunities for startup growth, business expansion, and strategic investment.

Attendees will have the opportunity to hear directly from financial professionals and capital providers, ask questions about funding options, and gain insight into navigating the financing landscape for their businesses.

The event will also include networking opportunities for entrepreneurs, business leaders, and community partners, along with heavy hors d’oeuvres and beer and wine provided for attendees by Mira at Maumelle.

The Chamber hopes the new initiative will strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Maumelle by fostering collaboration, increasing access to resources, and supporting long-term economic growth.

Entrepreneurs, small business owners, and community partners interested in attending are encouraged to participate in this inaugural session and connect with others working to build and grow businesses in the region.

For more information about the Maumelle Entrepreneurial Support Organization or to attend the event, contact the Maumelle Area Chamber of Commerce at kellie@maumellechamber.com or visit www.maumellechamber.com.

Share

Clark, Shettles‑Tull awarded PCSSD Inspiration in Education awards at board meeting

Larry Clark and Tiffany Shettles‑Tull were both awarded the People Committed to Serving Scholars Daily Inspiration in Education Award for March during the regular meeting of the PCSSD Board of Education.

Clark was the classified awardee, and Shettles‑Tull was the certified awardee. The awards, which included a certificate and monetary prize, were presented by PCSSD Superintendent Jeff Senn.

Clark is the security officer at Oakbrooke Elementary and brings more than seven years of school and community safety experience to his role, including five years with the Arkansas Department of Corrections.

Shettles‑Tull has been an educator for 25 years and began her PCSSD career in 2001 at North Pulaski High School, where she taught English and served in several roles until the school closed in 2016. She later taught at Jacksonville and Maumelle High Schools, also serving as an AVID Site Coordinator and AVID elective teacher. Five years ago, she transitioned to College Station Elementary as the teacher librarian, where she now shares her love of reading with younger learners and builds strong relationships with students and families.

She also supports classroom instruction, manages the school’s social media presence, and organizes monthly themed potlucks to build staff morale. Colleagues describe her as a positive, dedicated leader whose enthusiasm and commitment strengthen the entire school community.

Leave a comment

Commercial Real Estate Awards honor significant achievements

The Commercial Real Estate Council of Metro Little Rock held the eighth annual Commercial Real Estate Awards on Thursday, March 12, to recognize significant achievements and the largest real estate transactions in metro Little Rock made by local brokers in the previous year. Transactions are recognized in the categories chosen when the transaction was submitted. Sales are based on reported dollar amounts and leases are based on reported square footage.

Roby Brock, CEO of Natural State Media, parent company for Talk Business & Politics and The Northwest Arkansas Business Journal emceed the event.

LEASES

• Largest Industrial Lease : 9401 Diamond Drive, North Little Rock – Bill Pendergist, Isaac Smith, and Andrew Wiechern, Colliers Arkansas

• Largest Medical Lease: 10915 N Rodney Parham Road, Little Rock – George Friedmann, Chris Monroe, Chris Moses, and Greyson Skokos, Moses Tucker Partners

• Largest Office Lease: 1001 Technology Drive, Little Rock – Jeff Hathaway and Wes Martin, Hathaway Group and John Martin and Chris Monroe, Moses Tucker Partners

• Largest Retail Lease: 9101 W Markham, Little Rock – Hank Kelley, Eric Varner, and Kindley Wasson, Kelley Commercial Partners

SALES

• Largest Industrial Sale: 4201-4217 S Shackleford Road, Little Rock – Nathan Monan and Drew Holbert, Colliers Arkansas

• Largest Land Sale : Acreage Tracts off Harper Road, Little Rock Port Authority – Hank Kelley, Nick Kelley, and Gary Smith, Kelley Commercial Partners

• Largest Multi-Family Housing Sale: 501 N Magnolia Street, North Little Rock – Richard Cheek and Ted Bailey III, The Multifamily Group

• Largest Office Sale: 1 World Avenue, Little Rock – Hank Kelley, Kelley Commercial Partners and Ed Willis, Willis Cole Partners

• Largest Retail Sale : 9801 I-30, Little Rock – Casi Runnells, Colliers Arkansas

Commercial Real Estate Project of the Year 2025

Pavilion in the Park, conceived as a European hilltop village with an inner street and glass covered courtyard surrounded by five buildings, was constructed in 1985 as an upscale specialty retail center. On March 31, 2023, the iconic mixed-use retail, restaurant, healthcare and commercial office building with 38-active tenants was hit directly by an EF3 tornado that caused substantial damage throughout central Arkansas and beyond. The building was closed immediately, assessed for damage and its structural integrity, and the owners determined they did want to renovate the building. The result was a multi-year, $14M-plus project that replaced all of the damaged glass of the 16,000 SF atrium and much of the other glass and windows; removed, reframed and re-roofed all of the buildings in a sequence that kept the center open for business throughout construction; replaced the HVAC system; upgraded the electrical and lighting systems; created a bridal suite, groom suite and catering kitchen to support event rentals; renovated public restrooms; replaced flooring and many other public finishes; and renovated multiple tenant spaces. The result is a completely renovated and refreshed destination property that welcomes thousands of people per week. The project is a testament to the determination of the Flake & Company ownership to save and enhance the Pavilion, and the architect, engineers, construction manager, subcontractors, and vendors who delivered the renovated facility safely with a focus on value, quality, and schedule with as little disruption to the tenants and public as possible.

• Owner/Developer: Flake and Company

• Architect: Polk Stanley Wilcox

• Contractor: Metro Disaster Services, East Harding

• Bank: Relyance Bank

Person of the Year Award

2025 was an eventful year for Jeff Yates. In 2025, Yates was an integral part of Pavilion in the Park’s grand re-opening and is reinventing the Village at Rahling Road with a new vision. With over thirty-five years of experience, he has shared his integrity and expertise as a sounding board and trusted advisor throughout our state. He has written extensively for the Daily Record and is an expert on the metro Little Rock CRE market. There is a list of 2025 Flake and Company projects that show the fingerprints of Jeff Yates. Separate from his Flake and Company projects is the impact he, personally, has had on CREC of Metro Little Rock. This organization was his brainchild beginning in 2018, and CREC was extremely pleased to honor him as the 2025 CRE Person of the Year.

In Memorium

Last year, the metro Little Rock commercial real estate community lost a long-time member. Stacey Moore served in various capacities at Hathaway Group for 35 years, and at the time of her death on Feb. 2nd, 2025, she was Director of Operations. Jeff Hathaway, Hathaway Group, highlighted some of Stacey Moore’s accomplishments and contributions.

Commercial Real Estate Impact Awards

The Impact awards recognize the positive effects of innovative ventures, support, experiences, or long-term projects that are key to the success of individuals or businesses who help make metro Little Rock a healthy commercial real estate market.

Little Rock Central High School: Some spaces continue to make impacts over their many years. Little Rock Central High School, an iconic building, the only high school in the United States designated as a National Historic Site, completed its first major expansion and renovation in over 50 years in 2025. The $60 million upgrade included:

• 58,000 square-foot, two-story field house with an indoor practice field, cheer and wrestling rooms, and a new weight room

• 67,000 square-foot, three-story science wing that replaced portable buildings and the original laboratory spaces that were built in 1927 with a rooftop patio classroom and 200-seat lecture hall

• new common area that connects the science building to the school

• new parking lot

• new promenade connecting the buildings together called the Tiger Trail

This expansion and renovation will allow Little Rock Central High to continue its impact on the community to continue for generations to come.

Rockwater Village

In the early 2000s, Lisa Ferrell and Jim Jackson believed in a possibility. Their idea was to create a unique, modern take on the traditional neighborhoods of the past on the bank of the Arkansas River. What started as the development of a residential neighborhood has had ripple effects on North Little Rock’s historic Argenta neighborhood and the city of North Little Rock. Besides the original Rockwater Village residential development, the area now boasts the Rockwater Marina, a 64-slip marina offering access to the Arkansas River and The Resort at Rockwater, an upscale multifamily community. TIF and property tax for the area has seen an increase from $58,874.25 in 2007 to $1,062,444 in 2024. Revenue for the NLR School District increased from $44,000 in 2006 to $663,232.28 in 2024. There has been over $300,000,000 in private investment, with more to come. This Impact award honored the vision of Lisa and Jim and Rockwater Village.

Legend Awards

People are called Legends for many reasons. They could have noteworthy accomplishments, outstanding skills, or inspirational gifts that have been shared. CREC’s Legend award recognizes how this type of person makes an outsized contribution to metro Little Rock’s commercial real estate community. Past Legends include John Flake, Timothy Grooms, Rick Ashley, Gus Vratsinas, Jim Hathaway, Jimmy Moses, and Dickson Flake. This year’s recipients are Tom Ferstl and Mark Saviers.

Tom M. Ferstl

Tom M. Ferstl has spent more than six decades shaping the real estate valuation profession in Arkansas. Born April 19, 1939, in Fort Smith, Arkansas, he built his career on education, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Mr. Ferstl earned his Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock in 1967, his MBA from Northwestern University in 1968, and his Juris Doctor from UA Little Rock in 1972. His professional career included leadership roles as Vice President and Manager of Republic Mortgage Company and as Chief Appraiser for the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation before founding his own ventures, including Ferstl Enterprises and Affiliated Appraisers of Arkansas.

In 1967, Tom Ferstl founded what would become Ferstl Valuation Services with a simple but powerful goal: to provide reliable, trustworthy, and certified real estate appraisal services. In 2000, his son, J.T. Ferstl joined the company. The father-son partnership established a legacy rooted in loyalty, respect, and pride in their work. Today, the firm stands as one of the oldest and largest full-service appraisal companies in Arkansas, known for tackling complex assignments and serving as trusted advisors across the region. Mr. Ferstl’s distinguished career includes numerous professional honors, reflecting a lifetime dedicated not only to business success, but to strengthening the profession for future generations.

Mark Saviers

Mark Saviers is one of the founders of Tempus Realty Partners. He has served as General Partner of Asset Strategies of Tempus since inception in 2016. Mark has 43 years of experience in developing, leasing, and acquiring office buildings, business parks, data centers, warehouses, and corporate headquarters/campuses. His extensive work in Arkansas, Texas, Louisiana, Tennessee, and Illinois with the Trammell Crow Company Myers and Crow & Saviers, Ltd., included acquiring and managing Westlake Corporate Park in west Little Rock, at that time a campus of six office buildings and about 30 acres of to-be-developed land. On one of those land parcels, Mark led the team to develop a build-to-suit office building for Aegon Transamerica.

Mark is one of three co-founders and a current board member of Cushman & Wakefield/Sage Partners, a commercial real estate firm with offices in Northwest Arkansas and Little Rock. He is the author of the book Flipped, which tells the story of how God helped his brother-in-law and partner of Sage, Tommy Van Zandt, survive and thrive after a tragic accident in 2009, and how faith, family, friends, and community came together to create triumph over tragedy. Mark is married to his high school sweetheart, Vicki, and they are proud parents of two grown sons, Marshall (married to Beth) and John Mark (married to Melissa) and grandparents to four grandchildren. He enjoys fishing, hunting, and traveling with family and friends.

The Commercial Real Estate Council of Metro Little Rock’s mission is to promote and support all aspects of commercial real estate. The group works to facilitate engagement, education, and networking for groups, individuals, and companies representing development, brokerage, property management, finance, construction, law, and other industries with an interest in commercial real estate in the metro Little Rock area.

For more information contact 501-291-2210 or info@crecmlr.org.

Share

North Little Rock opens new Event Center

Mayor Terry Hartwick’s 20‑year vision has officially come to life; the North Little Rock Event Center is now open and ready to welcome the community. Over 650 City leaders, residents, and guests gathered Tuesday evening for a celebratory ceremony followed by self‑guided tours of the stunning new facility. Guests explored the elegant Centennial Bank Ballroom with its soaring ceilings and dazzling lighting, the flexible Mainstream Boardrooms, the state‑of‑the‑art catering kitchen, and more.

The evening offered a moment to reflect on years of planning and collaboration, and to look ahead to the bright future of North Little Rock. With new hotels and businesses rising around the Event Center, the development is poised to transform the Arena District and downtown, strengthening North Little Rock as a premier place to live, eat, work, play—and now celebrate! The City extends its sincere thanks to everyone who attended and to Central Arkansas Entertainment for helping to create a beautiful opening night experience. We look forward to the many events and memories this new space will host in the years ahead.

If you are interested in reserving space at the North Little Rock Event Center, call Raul Fernandez at 501-975-8866 or email nlreventcenter@nlr.ar.gov

Sports

North Little Rock 46, Har-Ber 40: ‘Cats ring it up, again

By Collin Scott

HOT SPRINGS —- North Little Rock Wildcats entered the state finals with a set goal to finish a strong season with a championship.

The Charging Wildcats did exactly what they set out to do.

North Little Rock defeated Har-Ber in the state championship girls basketball tournament with the final score 46-40 Saturday night, closing out a strong postseason run and making their mark as one of the top teams in the state of Arkansas. The Wildcats left Hot Springs as champions after going through a tough tournament bracket and rising to the occasion in the final matchup.

North Little Rock ended the year at 30-3 and this was the second time the ‘Cats had defeated Har-Ber.

North Little Rock Coach Daryl Fimple’s motto all year was for the team to become legendary at the end of the season.

“Everybody kept asking me, how good of a team is this?... Well, you can’t tell until the end, and I think it’s a pretty good team,” Fimple said.

This title puts a stamp on a dominant season for the Wildcats, which continued to be proven against the top tier competition throughout the playoffs. The Wildcats’ being able to control the pace of the game and completing key plays in big moments helped separate them from the rest of the teams in the tournament.

Spring Dale Har-Ber Coach Kimberly Jenkins believes they started off the game by having a bad first half leading to the loss.

“We’re not used to scoring ten points in a quarter, let alone a first half. That was a hole we kind of dug ourselves that was hard to get out of”.

Har-Ber was able to push through their own obstacles on their path to the finals, setting this finals up as a great matchup between two of the best teams in Arkansas. With the championship, North Little Rock girls basketball closes the season as the top team in Class 6A.

North Little Rock’s Elicia Shepherd was named the game’s MVP with nine points and 11 rebounds. Lauren Brewster led North Little Rock with 14 points while Katie Fimple, the coach’s daughter, had nine points in the win. For the younger Fimple, basketball runs in her family with her dad having won five state titles, while Donnie Smith, her late grandfather, was also a career coach

North Little Rock is now 29-3 and will face Springdale Har-Ber at 6 p.m. this Saturday at Bank OZK Arena in Hot Springs.

The ‘Cats are going for their sixth state title under Fimple, with wins in 2022, 2018, 2016, 2010, 2006 – and ninth state championship game with those three appearances coming this season and in 2023, 2017 and 2009.

North Little Rock defeated Har-Ber, 54-40, in a game played Dec, 31.

This was also North Little Rock’s sixth state title under Fimple, with wins now in 2026, 2022, 2018, 2016, 2010, 2006 – and ninth state championship game with those three appearances coming this season and in 2023, 2017 and 2009.

State finals scoreboard

Thursday

CLASS Score … Attendance … MVP

• 1A GIRLS: Earle 73, West Side 54 2938 Jada Maples

• 1A BOYS: Earle 70: Clarendon 58 3133 Ta’Ron Hurst

• 2A GIRLS: Quitman 66, Sloan-Hendrix 57 2524 Madilyn Varvil

• 2A BOYS: Barton 89, Mt. Vernon-Enola 44 3549 Christian Williams

Friday

• 3A GIRLS: Manila 49, McGehee 42 3522 Lucy Farmer

• 3A BOYS: Osceola 55, Newport 51 4520 Tyler Bell

• 4A GIRLS: Pulaski Academy, 56 Pea Ridge 43 3227 Greenlee Elmore

• 4A BOYS: Little Rock Hall 59, Mills 54 3622 Landen Hill

Saturday

• 5A GIRLS: Farmington 74, Mountain Home 39 3362 Easton McCollough

• 5A BOYS: Parkview 63, Marion 57 4223 Jacob Lanier

• 6A GIRLS: North Little Rock 46, Har-Ber 40 4110 Elicia Shepherd

• 6A BOYS: Bryant 58, LR Central 50 5319 Camarion Bead

TOURNAMENT TOTAL 44,048

TOURNAMENT AVERAGE 3,671

Subscribe if you like, pay if you can

Health

Pandemic deaths unknown

The state Department of Health didn’t update the state’s dashboard this week, again, and deaths still total 532 for the past year. There’s no tab created for 2025 either and the virus has now killed 14,162 Arkansans since the pandemic began then. That would mean the pandemic death toll has now passed Marion’s 13,635 people, the state’s 29th largest city.

Covid toolkit

There’s now a one-stop shop to learn about vaccination sites and other Covid related information. Click here to learn more.

If you don’t want to get sick and die, there’s some things you can do:

• Get vaccinated

• Get boosted

• Wear a mask

• Avoid crowds

Subscribe if you like, pay if you can

Note to subscribers: An annual or monthly subscription is billed to your debit or credit card as ARKANSAS.SUBSTACK.COM and if you have questions, please email arkansas@substack.com. Thanks for reading and subscribing!

The Headlines

• The North Little Rock School Board will have a special call meeting at 5:30 p.m. tonight at the district’s administration building. The agenda has two items, both related to personnel and will be held in executive session. So you could go, but then they would just make you leave. The Maumelle City Council will meet next Monday night at City Hall. The meeting will be livestreamed on YouTube and the public is welcome.

• EVENTS: Banana Ball is this Saturday, March 14 and Sunday, March 15 at North Little Rock’s Dickey-Stephens Park. There’s still ways to get tickets and for more, click here. Next Tuesday, March 17, is St. Patrick’s Day. Avoid the bars, amateur night, but wear your green. Next Wednesday, March 18, is someone’s birthday and they’re especially happy about another trip around the sun.

Subscribe if you like, pay if you can

Millwood Station to have grand opening

Maumelle’s new Millwood Station isn’t especially hard to find, given its prominent location on Maumelle Boulevard, but its purpose was lost to a recent visitor, who happened to be walking through while ArkansasNewsroom.com was there taking photos.

“Do you know what this will be,” she asked and seemed pleased given her enthusiastic “yes” when told it was the city’s new park and would have food trucks.

Courtney Dunn, the city’s Community Engagement Director said that Millwood Station would have a total of nine food truck spots and that six food trucks have already signed leases.

She said the six that have signed leases are:

• Tacos Atilano

• Phonzie’s 1 Stop Hog Shop(BBQ)

• Lumpia Hut (Filipino inspired food)

• Wing Krave

• Shakes Frozen Custard

• Travelin Coffee & Crepes

Given that three spaces are still available, Dunn said that, if a vendor was interested they would need “to fill out the Food Truck Interest form located at, https://maumelle.org/707/Millwood-Station.”

Millwood Station also features a covered pavilion as well as walking and biking trails that will connect it to other points in the city, and eventually across central Arkansas. The park features the bicycle and tire inflation stations that have become standard. There’s also bathrooms and water fountains.

Each of the food truck slots features hookups for water, electricity and sewer and should be happening spot after this Friday’s grand opening.

What follows is a lightly edited, and formatted Q&A with Dunn on Millwood Station.

What’s the total seating at the pavilion?

The pavilion is designed to be a flexible space, so seating may vary depending on how the area is being used. At times, picnic tables will be placed under the pavilion for public seating, while during vendor events and farmers markets the space may be left open to accommodate booths and foot traffic.

Currently, the park has 10 large picnic tables and 4 ADA-accessible picnic tables available for visitors to use throughout the park. The city will continue to evaluate seating needs and may add additional tables in the future if demand increases.

What was the cost of construction?

Total Construction cost is approximately $2.4 Million

How does the new park fit into the vision for Maumelle?

The opening of Millwood Station reflects Maumelle’s broader vision of strengthening community connections and creating welcoming spaces for residents of all ages. By bringing together amenities like food truck areas, a farmers market pavilion, and a small stage for events and entertainment, the park encourages people to gather, interact, and enjoy shared experiences.

This new shared space supports Maumelle’s goal of enhancing community engagement by providing a place where families, friends, and neighbors can come together for markets, performances, and local events. It helps foster a sense of community while offering activities and opportunities that appeal to people at every stage of life, making Maumelle an even more vibrant and connected place to live.

The walking trail around the park also ties into the upcoming Club Manor Drive improvements, which will help make this area of the city more walkable and pedestrian-friendly. Together, these features support Maumelle’s vision of creating accessible public spaces that encourage outdoor activity, connectivity, and community interaction.

Anything else you want to add?

Millwood Station is located at 100 Millwood Circle in Maumelle. The park offers on-site parking, including designated handicap-accessible spaces for visitors. Additional overflow parking is available through a shared parking agreement with First Baptist Church, located across the street. For those parking there, a marked crosswalk at the nearby stoplight provides a safe and convenient way to cross to the park.

The name “Millwood Station” reflects the site’s history in the community. The property was previously home to the Maumelle Department of Public Safety, which once housed both the city’s Police Department and Fire Department, making it a location with longstanding importance to Maumelle’s public service and community life.

Share Arkansas Newsroom

Sports

Semifinal Saturday: North Little Rock wins one, loses one

North Little Rock’s quest for another state title in boys basketball came to an end on Saturday when the Cat’s lost to Little Rock Central, 70-63, at 6A state tournament host Bryant.

North Little Rock ends its season at 15-8 overall and had defeated Central once earlier this season, while another conference game was cancelled due to weather and was never rescheduled.

The ‘Cats were the No. 2 seed from the 6A-Central, while Central was the No. 4 seed.

North Little Rock’s Kevon Smith led all scorers with 21 points, while Elijah Bryant had 20 and Davian Withers added 13.

Central moves to face defending state champ Bryant in this Saturday’s 6A state title game

Despite the North Little Rock loss, it was still a helluva good day for central Arkansas basketball on Semifinal Saturday as Little Rock Mills will face Little Rock Hall for the 4A state title, while Little Rock Parkview will face Marion for the 5A state title, then Bryant and Central for the 6A state championship.

On the girls side, North Little Rock beat long-time rivals Fort Smith Northside, 44-39, as Daryl Fimple won the coaches’ duel with Rickey Smith.

Mia Hopkins led North Little Rock with 14 points, while Katie Fimple, the coach’s daughter, had nine points in the win. For the younger Fimple, basketball runs in her family with her dad having won five state titles, while Donnie Smith, her late grandfather, was also a career coach

North Little Rock is now 29-3 and will face Springdale Har-Ber at 6 p.m. this Saturday at Bank OZK Arena in Hot Springs.

The ‘Cats are going for their sixth state title under Fimple, with wins in 2022, 2018, 2016, 2010, 2006 – and ninth state championship game with those three appearances coming this season and in 2023, 2017 and 2009.

North Little Rock defeated Har-Ber, 54-40, in a game played Dec, 31.

TV schedule

Arkansas TV, formerly Arkansas PBS, will broadcast this year’s state championships live from Bank OZK Arena in Hot Springs beginning today

The games will air live:

• 1A girls – West Side Greers Ferry vs. Earle – Thursday, March 12, at noon.  

• 1A boys – Clarendon vs. Earle – Thursday, March 12, at 1:45 p.m.  

• 2A girls – Sloan-Hendrix vs. Quitman – Thursday, March 12, at 6 p.m.  

• 2A boys – Barton vs. Mount Vernon-Enola – Thursday, March 12, at 7:45 p.m.  

• 3A girls – Manila vs. McGehee – Friday, March 13, at noon.  

• 3A boys – Newport vs. Osceola – Friday, March 13, at 1:45 p.m.  

• 4A girls – Pea Ridge vs. Pulaski Academy – Friday, March 13, at 6 p.m.  

• 4A boys – Little Rock Hall vs. Mills University Studies – Friday, March 13, at 7:45 p.m.  

• 5A girls – Farmington vs. Mountain Home – Saturday, March 14, at noon.  

• 5A boys – Marion vs. Little Rock Parkview – Saturday, March 14, at 1:45 p.m.  

• 6A girls – Springdale Har-Ber vs. North Little Rock – Saturday, March 14, at 6 p.m.  

• 6A boys – Little Rock Central vs. Bryant – Saturday, March 14, at 7:45 p.m. 

Stats from the basketball championship games will be available at aaabasketball.gamedaypreps.com/.  

Funding for Arkansas TV Sports is provided by the Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas, the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS), Image One. Arkansas TV also recognizes AAA’s sponsors for the state high school basketball finals, including Centennial Bank, Arkansas Farm Bureau and Everett Buick GMC. 

Subscribe if you like, pay if you can

Health

Pandemic deaths unknown

The state Department of Health didn’t update the state’s dashboard this week, again, and deaths still total 532 for the past year. There’s no tab created for 2025 either and the virus has now killed 14,162 Arkansans since the pandemic began then. That would mean the pandemic death toll has now passed Marion’s 13,635 people, the state’s 29th largest city.

Covid toolkit

There’s now a one-stop shop to learn about vaccination sites and other Covid related information. Click here to learn more.

If you don’t want to get sick and die, there’s some things you can do:

• Get vaccinated

• Get boosted

• Wear a mask

• Avoid crowds

Subscribe if you like, pay if you can

Note to subscribers: An annual or monthly subscription is billed to your debit or credit card as ARKANSAS.SUBSTACK.COM and if you have questions, please email arkansas@substack.com. Thanks for reading and subscribing!

The Headlines

• MEETINGS: The North Little Rock City Council will meet next Monday night at City Hall. The meeting will be livestreamed on YouTube and the public is welcome.

• EVENTS: Next Tuesday, North Little Rock will have a grand opening and tour of the city’s Event Center at 120 Main St. The building is located at the previous City Services building. The event will start at 4 p.m. and for more, call 501-975-8866 or email nlreventcenter@nlr.ar.gov. Banana Ball is Saturday, March 14 and Sunday, March 15 at North Little Rock’s Dickey-Stephens Park. There’s still ways to get tickets and for more, click here.

Subscribe if you like, pay if you can

The good and bad of Election Night

Tuesday night was Election Day and it was a mix of good news and bad news,

First up, the good news and in no particular order:

The election is over! No more texts, calls and mailers in the mailbox. That’s cause to celebrate.

It was mostly a good night for Maumelle.

The sales tax extension passed and five of the six projects were approved by voters. The one that failed was Question 7 and it was for field turf for some of the fields operated by Maumelle Parks & Rec.

The net result is the city will be issuing bonds to pay off the previous bonds from the last sales tax increase, and now, instead of $34.26 million in new bonds, it will be $29.16 million in bonds.

The headline is that the long-desired indoor pool was approved by voters at the Center on the Lake.

Proposed bond issue

• Total: $34.26 million

• Question 1: Refunding 2018 bonds - $3.05M

• Question 2: Street improvements - $3.86M

• Question 3: Center on the Lake/Indoor pool - $5.39M

• Question 4: Public Safety Training facility - $5.19M

• Question 5: Fire station improvements - $8.45M

• Question 6: Lake Valencia improvements - $3.22M

• Question 7: Field turf for Parks & Rec - $5.1M

Work on all the approved projects will begin later this year.

It was also a good night for state Rep. Brandon Achor, who won the Republican primary for state Senate, and will now move on to November where he will face Allison Grigsby Sweatman, who won the Democratic primary.

It should be a lively race for state Senate District 13.

It was also a good day for turnout as 63,403 came out with the majority coming with early voting at 33,507 and 29,656 on Tuesday.

The reality was that early voting was decisive, which has been a theme the last several elections.

Now, the bad news, and, again, in no particular order.

Pulaski County Judge Harry Hyde got crushed in the Democratic primary by Wendell Griffen and Prosecuting Attorney Will Jones also lost his bid for a second term.

Griffen won, 62.7 to 37.3, which was somewhat unexpected. Hyde, a former state legislator, seemed to be in trouble, given the number of non-stop texts he was sending out. but losing by more than 10,000 votes is wild.

It was also a day for North Little Rock. Wait, how so?

Hyde and Jones are both long-time North Little Rockers with deep roots in the community. And, for reasons that are complicated, the city has had an over-sized role in county governance for decades. North Little Rock’s Debra Buckner won her re-election bid for county treasurer, but she’s the last North of the River resident in county-wide office.

For election results, click here, the Maumelle sales tax results are below.

Pretty health turnout with 4,112 votes cast.

These results are not yet certified, and final numbers could change slightly. So all the usual caveats.

Question 1

• FOR 2,440 59.34%

• AGAINST 1,672 40.66%

• Total Votes Cast 4,112

Question 2

• FOR 2,861 69.97%

• AGAINST 1,228 30.03%

Question 3

• FOR 2,253 55.00%

• AGAINST 1,843 45.00%

Question 4

• FOR 2,252 55.41%

• AGAINST 1,812 44.59%

Question 5

• FOR 2,473 60.48%

• AGAINST 1,616 39.52%

Question 6

• FOR 2,234 54.86%

• AGAINST 1,838 45.14%

Question 7

• FOR 1,869 45.72%

• AGAINST 2,219 54.28%

Share Arkansas Newsroom

Commercial Real Estate Council honors real estate legends

Commercial Real Estate Council of Metro Little Rock will honor Tom Ferstl and Mark Saviers with the Legend award for their legacy of commercial real estate accomplishments and inspiring achievements in metro Little Rock at the 8th Annual Commercial Real Estate Awards this Thursday, March 12, at 5: p.m. at the Little Rock Junior League Headquarters Building, 401 S Scott Street.

Tom Ferstl

Tom M. Ferstl has spent more than six decades shaping the real estate valuation profession in Arkansas. Born April 19, 1939, in Fort Smith, he built his career on education, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Ferstl earned his Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock in 1967, his MBA from Northwestern University in 1968, and his Juris Doctor from UA Little Rock in 1972. His professional career included leadership roles as Vice President and Manager of Republic Mortgage Company and as Chief Appraiser for the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation before founding his own ventures, including Ferstl Enterprises and Affiliated Appraisers of Arkansas.

In 1967, Tom Ferstl founded what would become Ferstl Valuation Services with a simple but powerful goal: to provide reliable, trustworthy, and certified real estate appraisal services. In 2000, his son, J.T. Ferstl joined the company. The father-son partnership established a legacy rooted in loyalty, respect, and pride in their work. Today, the firm stands as one of the oldest and largest full-service appraisal companies in Arkansas, known for tackling complex assignments and serving as trusted advisors across the region. Ferstl’s distinguished career includes numerous professional honors, reflecting a lifetime dedicated not only to business success, but to strengthening the profession for future generations.

Mark Saviers

Mark Saviers is one of the founders of Tempus Realty Partners. He has served as General Partner of Asset Strategies of Tempus since inception in 2016. Mark has 43 years of experience in developing, leasing, and acquiring office buildings, business parks, data centers, warehouses, and corporate headquarters/campuses. His extensive work in Arkansas, Texas, Louisiana, Tennessee, and Illinois with the Trammell Crow Company Myers and Crow & Saviers, Ltd., included acquiring and managing Westlake Corporate Park in west Little Rock, at that time a campus of six office buildings and about 30 acres of to-be-developed land. On one of those land parcels, Saviers led the team to develop a build-to-suit office building for Aegon Transamerica.

Saviers is one of three co-founders and a current board member of Cushman & Wakefield/Sage Partners, a commercial real estate firm with offices in Northwest Arkansas and Little Rock. He is the author of the book Flipped, which tells the story of how God helped his brother-in-law and partner of Sage, Tommy Van Zandt, survive and thrive after a tragic accident in 2009, and how faith, family, friends, and community came together to create triumph over tragedy. Saviers is married to his high school sweetheart, Vicki, and they are proud parents of two grown sons, Marshall (married to Beth) and John Mark (married to Melissa) and grandparents to four grandchildren. He enjoys fishing, hunting, and traveling with family and friends.

Past recipients of this award include Dickson Flake, Jimmy Moses, James Hathaway, Gus Vratsinas, Rick Ashley, John Flake, and Timothy Grooms.

Tickets are available at crecmlr.org/events. For more information contact info@crecmlr.org or 501-291-2210.

Subscribe now

Nominations open for Arkansas Women’s Hall of Fame

The Arkansas Women’s Hall of Fame is seeking nominations for the 2026 Induction Class.

The Hall was created to honor, in perpetuity, women whose contributions have influenced the direction of Arkansas in their community or the state.

Nominees are not limited to a certain field or accomplishment and can include pioneers, philanthropists, educators, entrepreneurs, athletes, artists, business leaders and political figures.

Nominations must be submitted by this Friday, March 6. Criteria and nomination forms can be found on the website at www.ARWomensHallofFame.com. The 2026 Induction Ceremony is scheduled for Thursday, Aug. 27 at the North Little Rock Event Center in the Centennial Bank Ballroom. Visitors to the website will find more information about the event and the hall’s past inductees.

Subscribe now

Sharon Kay Heflin

November 29, 1946 - February 26, 2026

Sharon Kay Windham Heflin, 79, went to be with her Savior on Thursday, February 26th, 2026, following a battle with Alzheimer’s. Born in Little Rock, Sharon was the only child of R.W. ‘’Windy’‘ Windham and Ruth Elizabeth Pillman Windham. After attending Little Rock Central High School and graduating in three years from Ouachita Baptist University, Sharon married her high school sweetheart, Johnny Heflin, in 1967. She joined Johnny in building the family’s Terminix franchise into a successful family business where she filled a variety of positions until her retirement in 2024.

As an active member of Second Baptist Church in downtown Little Rock for over 50 years Sharon served on multiple committees, was an ordained deacon, and an occasional Sunday School teacher. Alongside her faith and spending time with her family, Sharon was passionate about working with not-for-profits throughout central Arkansas. Providing vision and hands on leadership, she served on and/or chaired boards benefiting the Baptist Health Foundation, Alzheimer’s Arkansas, Argenta Community Theater, American Heart Association, Centers for Youth and Families, Thea Foundation, Gaines House, UA-PTC, AR Kids Read and many others. Sharon’s ability to connect with an organizations mission and find ways to accomplish their goals was a precious gift.

Sharon was preceded in death by her husband, Johnny, her parents Ruth and RW ‘’Windy’‘ Windham, her mother and father in law Lynn and Jay Heflin. She is survived by her sons, Jay (Andrea) Heflin and Marc (Billie) Heflin all of Little Rock, her grandchildren, Grace Heflin of West Hollywood, Calif., Ben Heflin, Lynn Heflin, and Anna Heflin all of Little Rock, her brother-in-law Dr. Boo (Mary) Heflin of Hot Springs Village, her nieces and nephew Judy (Mike) Malone of Arlington, Texas, Sherry Heflin of Mesquite, Texas, and David Heflin of Roanoke, Texas, along with several great and great-great nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, and in memory of Sharon’s genuine desire to help others, the family requests that any memorial gifts be made to an organization of your choice that focuses on lifting up others in our community.

Visitation is Second Baptist Church in Little Rock this Friday from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. The memorial service will follow at 2 p.m.

For more, click here.

Share

Sports

State tournament roundup

Compiled by Collin Scott

The good news for Maumelle is that the Hornets made the Class 5A state tournament at Farmington.

The bad news is that wasn’t a long trip as Benton defeated Maumelle, 76-55, on Tuesday night in the first round.

This was a rematch from last year’s state championship game, which was also won by Benton.

Maumelle ended the year 13-18 and were the No. 4 seed from the 5A-Central, while Benton, 23-5, was the No. 1 seed from the 5A-Couth.

Benton faces the winner of Greene County Tech and Mountain Home at 5:30 p.m. on Friday. The semifinals will be at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday.

Staying on the boys side, North Little Rock (14-10) lost to Bryant in the regular season finale.

Returning starters from last season are Kevon Smith, Dayvian Withers, Javon Dodson, Javen Ashford and Felix Wade with Smith being the best of the bunch.

North Little Rock is the No. 2 seed from the 6A-Central and will face Bentonville West at 8:30 p.m. tonight at Bryant High School.

Bentonville West is the No. 3 seed from the 6A-West and defeated Little Rock Southwest on Tuesday.

The winner of tonight’s game will face the winner of Springdale Har-Ber and Little Rock Central at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday in the semifinals.

On the girls side, North Little Rock (27-4) is the No. 1 seed from the 6A-Central and had a first-round bye as a result. The ‘Cats will face Fayetteville, the No. 4 seed from the 6A-West at 4 p.m. today at Bryant with the winner of that game facing the winner of Fort Smith Northside and Bentonville at 6 p.m. on Saturday in the semifinals.

Northside defeated North Little Rock, 57-53, on Saturday, Dec. 13 in Fort Smith’s Coke Classic, butDaryl Fimple’s bunch hasn’t lost since. North Little Rock’s best player is Katie Fimple, the coach’s daughter, and who has committed to Ouachita Baptist.

The state championship games start next week at Bank OZK Arena in Hot Springs.

For the girls regional and state tournament brackets, click here.

For the boys regional and state tournament brackets, click here.

To buy tickets for any of the above, click here.

State finals schedule set, will be televised

Arkansas TV will present the Class 6A-1A 2026 Centennial Bank High School Basketball State Championships live from Bank OZK Arena in Hot Springs beginning Thursday, March 12, in partnership with the AAA) Games will be broadcast statewide over the air, on cable and on satellite on Arkansas TV.

The Arkansas high school basketball state finals will air live at the following times:

• 1A girls – Thursday, March 12, at noon.

• 1A boys – Thursday, March 12, at 1:45 p.m.

• 2A girls – Thursday, March 12, at 6 p.m.

• 2A boys – Thursday, March 12, at 7:45 p.m.

• 3A girls – Friday, March 13, at noon.

• 3A boys – Friday, March 13, at 1:45 p.m.

• 4A girls – Friday, March 13, at 6 p.m.

• 4A boys – Friday, March 13, at 7:45 p.m.

• 5A girls – Saturday, March 14, at noon.

• 5A boys – Saturday, March 14, at 1:45 p.m.

• 6A girls – Saturday, March 14, at 6 p.m.

• 6A boys – Saturday, March 14, at 7:45 p.m.

Funding for Arkansas TV Sports is provided by the Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas, the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS), Image One. AAA’s sponsors for the state high school basketball finals, including Centennial Bank, Arkansas Farm Bureau and Everett Buick GMC.

Basketball schedules

Maumelle

Boys

• Friday, Feb. 27 ... vs ... Catholic ... 7 p.m.

Girls

• Friday, Feb. 27 ... vs ... Mount St. Mary Academy ... 6 p.m.

North Little Rock

Boys

• Thursday, Feb. 26 ... vs ... Cabot ... 7 p.m.

Girls

• Thursday, Feb. 26 ... vs ... Cabot ... 6 p.m.

Education news

Sparklight to award $30,000 for STEM education

Sparklight®, a leading fiber-fueled internet provider, is launching its 2026 “Dream Bigger” contest, awarding $30,000 to support science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education for K–12 students. Twelve winning schools or organizations will receive $2,500 each.

Through the annual contest, Sparklight aims to help educators bring hands-on STEM experiences into classrooms and learning environments, equipping K–12 students with skills that spark curiosity, problem-solving and new ideas.

Entries for the 2026 contest will be accepted now through March 10 at sparklight.com/contest. Finalists will be selected by Sparklight, and the 12 winners will be chosen through public voting from March 12 through March 18 at sparklight.com/contest.

Smart Driver class set

An AARP Smart Driver Class will be held at Maumelle Center on the Lake on March 10 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

It is open to AARP members & non-member, $20 for members, $25 for non-members, cash or check only. Some insurance companies will give a discount with completion of the class – check with your insurance agent. To register, call or text Ellie Wilson 501-247-5935.

Subscribe if you like, pay if you can

Health

Pandemic deaths unknown

The state Department of Health didn’t update the state’s dashboard this week, again, and deaths still total 532 for the past year. There’s no tab created for 2025 either and the virus has now killed 14,162 Arkansans since the pandemic began then. That would mean the pandemic death toll has now passed Marion’s 13,635 people, the state’s 29th largest city.

Covid toolkit

There’s now a one-stop shop to learn about vaccination sites and other Covid related information. Click here to learn more.

If you don’t want to get sick and die, there’s some things you can do:

• Get vaccinated

• Get boosted

• Wear a mask

• Avoid crowds

Subscribe if you like, pay if you can

Welcome to ArkansasNewsroom.com’s election night coverage.

8:15: Early vote is in

Early voting was released a little before 8 p.m. and for those results, click here.

There’s still a long way to go, but in races of North of the River interest, Questions 1 through 6 are all up while Question 7, for artificial turf, was down.

It was also the closest margin, about 7 percent, while the others are all up at least 10 percent.

Proposed bond issue

• Total: $34.26 million

• Question 1: Refunding 2018 bonds - $3.05M

• Question 2: Street improvements - $3.86M

• Question 3: Center on the Lake/Indoor pool - $5.39M

• Question 4: Public Safety Training facility - $5.19M

• Question 5: Fire station improvements - $8.45M

• Question 6: Lake Valencia improvements - $3.22M

• Question 7: Field turf for Parks & Rec - $5.1M

Legislative races

State Rep. Brandon Achor is currently leading the Republican primary for State Senate District 13 and in the much watched Special Election for State Representative District 70, Democrat Alex Holladay is beating Republican Bo Renshaw. This seat was made vacant when Carlton Wing resigned to run Arkansas PBS, which is now known as Arkansas TV and will no longer be affiliated with PBS.

County races

Judge Barry Hyde is losing to Wendell Griffen, while all the other incumbents are currently leading.

This will be updated during the night.

9:37: First round of Election Day votes land

Batch 1 of Election Day voting is in and there’s been 5,743 more ballots cast. Click here for those results.

Wendell Griffen has widened his lead in the Pulaski County Judge race but this batch of ballots isn’t from Maumelle and there’s been no change in the other races of interest.

Except the special election for State Representative District 70 as Democrat Alex Holladay widened his lead over Republican Bo Renshaw.

11:02 : Still waiting

Things are moving slow at the Pulaski County Election Commission as no new ballots have been counted for Election Day since that last update at 9:37 p.m.

So, welp, going to bed.. Will update in the morning, assuming more ballots have been counted.

7:28 a.m., Wednesday: As expected

Pulled the plug last night and, according to the time stamp, election results moved 10 minutes later. Click here for those results.

There will be more on Thursday morning, but, for now, Questions 1 through 6 all passed, so the sales tax extension is a go in Maumelle.

Question 7, the one for field turf, failed.

Pretty health turnout with 4,112 votes cast.

These results are not yet certified, and final numbers could change slightly. So all the usual caveats.

Question 1

• FOR 2,440 59.34%

• AGAINST 1,672 40.66%

• Total Votes Cast 4,112

Question 2

• FOR 2,861 69.97%

• AGAINST 1,228 30.03%

Question 3

• FOR 2,253 55.00%

• AGAINST 1,843 45.00%

Question 4

• FOR 2,252 55.41%

• AGAINST 1,812 44.59%

Question 5

• FOR 2,473 60.48%

• AGAINST 1,616 39.52%

Question 6

• FOR 2,234 54.86%

• AGAINST 1,838 45.14%

Question 7

• FOR 1,869 45.72%

• AGAINST 2,219 54.28%

Note to subscribers: An annual or monthly subscription is billed to your debit or credit card as ARKANSAS.SUBSTACK.COM and if you have questions, please email arkansas@substack.com. Thanks for reading and subscribing!

The Headlines

• MEETINGS: A special meeting of the North Little Rock School Board will meet at 5:30 p.m. tonight at the district’s administration building. The Maumelle Planning Commission will meet at 6:30 p.m. tonight and for more on that, keep scrolling. The Maumelle City Council will meet next Monday night at City Hall. All the meetings will be livestreamed on YouTube and the public is welcome at all of the above.

• EVENTS: Do you want to be in the movies? Of course you do. And here’s a chance, courtesy of Christen Pitts, the super fantastic drama and dance teacher at North Little Rock High School, and who is also helping to get the word out on casting for “King Snake” a film by Jeff Nichols, who was the one who brought “Mud” and Matthew McConaughey to Dumas. All right, all right, all right. Anyway, No McConaughey but among the stars will be Michael Shannon, who was the star in “Take Shelter” another of Nichols’s films but might be better known as Zod from the second-to-last Superman movies that starred Henry Cavill, and not the more current version of Superman, that came out last year. There’s some requirements for the first round as they’re looking for boys between the ages of 9 to 15. Apply online for that at www.theagencyinc.com/arkansas-casting/ and there will be other casting calls to come later this year, so stay tuned.

Subscribe if you like, pay if you can

Planning Commission to hear plans for Siena Ridge

The Maumelle Planning Commission will meet at 6:30 p.m. tonight at City Hall for its monthly meeting.

The agenda can be viewed by clicking here.

There’s only two items of business, both related, for the meeting.The first is a land use map amendment for Siena Ridge, 173 acres of property east of Odom Boulevard and west of Naylor Drive and Millwood Circle.

The second is a rezoning of Siena Ridge from R-1, T-2 and C-1 to PRD and PCD, or planned residential development and planned commercial development.

Siena Ridge is described in the Planning Commission packer as a “mixed-density planned community” and would include 120 apartments, 237 townhomes and 250 single-family lots. Most of the acreage is for residential, while 17 acres has been set aside “for neighborhood style commercial amenities.”

A rendering of the site map can be seen below.

The city’s planning department, in its review of the plans, gave it a “DO PASS Recommendation” when it goes to the City Council.

A public hearing is scheduled on the development before the start of the Planning Commission meeting. For more on that, keep reading.

One item of old business, a development plan for Country Club of Arkansas, has been deferred to the March meeting.

Public Hearing Notice

The Maumelle Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on Thursday, Feb. 26 at 6:30 p.m.. at City Hall to consider the rezoning from C-1, R-1 and R-2 to PRD and PCD, and to consider a land use change from COMM, SFD & MFD to SUC & SUR, for property located at East of Odom Boulevard, West of Naylor Dr. and Millwood Cir, and South of Ridgeview Trail. This hearing will precede the monthly Planning Commission meeting. An agenda for that meeting has not yet been released. For more, call 501-851-2500.

Share Arkansas Newsroom

Election Day is this Tuesday

Early voting has been lively, and will continue through this weekend at all polling places, then again on Monday at the Pulaski County Election Commission building in downtown Little Rock.

Election Day is next Tuesday, March 3 and on the mind of most of Maumelle, or at least those paying attention, which, admittedly, not most of Maumelle, is the ½ cent sales tax extension.

There’s seven questions on the ballot for Maumelle voters to choose from covering six different projects as well as the retirement of the current bond debt.

The city has held a series of town hall meetings, with the most recent being on Tuesday.

It covered Question 1, which is the retirement of the current bond debt and Questions 2 and 3 which were on street improvements and indoor pool at the Center on the Lake.

The meeting was livestreamed and to watch, click the title card below.

Not to get into the prediction business but to get into the prediction business it feels like Question 1 will pass, opening up the other bond issues, with the indoor pool and field turf for youth league ball fields the most likely to then be approved by voters.

These two bond issues have significant constituencies of support and all of whom have been quite vocal in their backing.

Generally speaking, at least with bond votes both in Maumelle and North Little Rock, public safety and fire station improvements are generally well supported. That leaves street improvements and Lake Valencia improvements remaining, and they seem the ones most likely to fail or be very close.

Some caveats, while it has been addressed – repeatedly – there’s still a perception that if , say, you support the indoor pool, then vote against the other bond issues, it would mean more money for the Center on the Lake project.

That is absolutely not the case. The amount of the bond is set to each project’s cost, and not a $34.26 million pot of money that could then be spent on just one project.

Also, before new bonds are issued, voters have to approve Question 1, which retires the previous debt and would then allow for new debt.

If you support one of the new bonds, you have to vote yes for Question 1.

Proposed bond issue

• Total: $34.26 million

• Question 1: Refunding 2018 bonds - $3.05M

• Question 2: Street improvements - $3.86M

• Question 3: Center on the Lake/Indoor pool - $5.39M

• Question 4: Public Safety Training facility - $5.19M

• Question 5: Fire station improvements - $8.45M

• Question 6: Lake Valencia improvements - $3.22M

• Question 7: Field turf for Parks & Rec - $5.1M

How much money?

• The city’s ½ cent sales tax brings in approximately $1.8 million annually and if the all seven questions were to pass, it would take about 20 years to pay off.

Election Calendar

• Early Voting Dates: Now through March 2

• Early Voting Hours: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday – Friday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays and 8 a.m to -5 p.m. on Monday March 2.

• March 3: Preferential Primary Election/Annual School Election/Nonpartisan Judicial General Election

If a runoff is needed in the primary, it will be March 31

Early Voting Locations

• Pulaski County Regional Building, 501 West Markham, Little Rock

• Sue Cowan Williams Library, 1800 S. Chester St.

• Dee Brown Library, 6325 Baseline Road, Little Rock

• Thompson Library, 38 Rahling Circle, Little Rock

• William F Laman Public Library, 2801 Orange St., NorthLittle Rock

• Jacksonville Community Center, 5 Municipal Drive, Jacksonville

• Jess Odom Community Center, 1100 Edgewood Drive, Maumelle

• First Christian Church of Sherwood, 2803 E. Kiehl Ave., Sherwood

• McMath Library, 2100 John Barrow Road, Little Rock

• Hillary Clinton Children’s Library, 4800 W. 10th St., Little Rock

• John Gould Fletcher Library, 823 N. Buchanan St., Little Rock

• Terry Library, 2015 Napa Valley Drive, Little Rock

Subscribe now

Nominations open for Arkansas Women’s Hall of Fame

The Arkansas Women’s Hall of Fame is seeking nominations for the 2026 Induction Class.

The Hall was created to honor, in perpetuity, women whose contributions have influenced the direction of Arkansas in their community or the state.

Nominees are not limited to a certain field or accomplishment and can include pioneers, philanthropists, educators, entrepreneurs, athletes, artists, business leaders and political figures.

Nominations must be submitted by next Friday, March 6. Criteria and nomination forms can be found on the website at www.ARWomensHallofFame.com. The 2026 Induction Ceremony is scheduled for Thursday, Aug. 27 at the North Little Rock Event Center in the Centennial Bank Ballroom. Visitors to the website will find more information about the event and the hall’s past inductees.

Share

Sports

Basketball post season

For the girls regional and state tournament brackets, click here.

For the boys regional and state tournament brackets, click here.

To buy tickets for any of the above, click here.

State finals schedule set, will be televised

Arkansas TV will present the Class 6A-1A 2026 Centennial Bank High School Basketball State Championships live from Bank OZK Arena in Hot Springs beginning Thursday, March 12, in partnership with the AAA) Games will be broadcast statewide over the air, on cable and on satellite on Arkansas TV.

The Arkansas high school basketball state finals will air live at the following times:

• 1A girls – Thursday, March 12, at noon.

• 1A boys – Thursday, March 12, at 1:45 p.m.

• 2A girls – Thursday, March 12, at 6 p.m.

• 2A boys – Thursday, March 12, at 7:45 p.m.

• 3A girls – Friday, March 13, at noon.

• 3A boys – Friday, March 13, at 1:45 p.m.

• 4A girls – Friday, March 13, at 6 p.m.

• 4A boys – Friday, March 13, at 7:45 p.m.

• 5A girls – Saturday, March 14, at noon.

• 5A boys – Saturday, March 14, at 1:45 p.m.

• 6A girls – Saturday, March 14, at 6 p.m.

• 6A boys – Saturday, March 14, at 7:45 p.m.

Funding for Arkansas TV Sports is provided by the Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas, the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS), Image One. AAA’s sponsors for the state high school basketball finals, including Centennial Bank, Arkansas Farm Bureau and Everett Buick GMC.

Basketball schedules

Maumelle

Boys

• Friday, Feb. 27 ... vs ... Catholic ... 7 p.m.

Girls

• Friday, Feb. 27 ... vs ... Mount St. Mary Academy ... 6 p.m.

North Little Rock

Boys

• Thursday, Feb. 26 ... vs ... Cabot ... 7 p.m.

Girls

• Thursday, Feb. 26 ... vs ... Cabot ... 6 p.m.

Education news

UA Little Rock names Fall 2025 Chancellor’s List

UA Little Rock announces its Fall 2025 Chancellor’s List, recognizing students with superior academic performance in a semester.

To be eligible for the Chancellor’s List, students must earn at least nine credit hours and at least a 3.9 GPA.

North of the River students named include:

• Shantay Ross of Maumelle

• Noah Browning of Maumelle

• David Fong of Maumelle

• Ayan Huda of Maumelle

• Brandon Nichols of Maumelle

• Karen Johnson of Maumelle

• David Pearson of Maumelle

• Dilasa Yaman of Maumelle

• Conner Callaway of Maumelle

• Justin Chadwick of Maumelle

• Emily Schade of Maumelle

• Leila Scroggins of Maumelle

• Joshua Fong of Maumelle

• Morgan Mincer of Maumelle

• Aliyah Smith of Maumelle

• Tayla Twisdale of Maumelle

• CheDaidre Jones of North Little Rock

• Sarah Coile of Sherwood

• Audriana Luckett of North Little Rock

• Kyle Morrison of Sherwood

• Jame’cia Belle of North Little Rock

• Cassie Butler of North Little Rock

• Maitlyn Harrison of Sherwood

• Sydney Davidson of Sherwood

• Jack Seabaugh of North Little Rock

• Sarah Brackenbury of North Little Rock

• Lillian Green of North Little Rock

• Nathan Hughes of North Little Rock

• John Kinder of North Little Rock

• Diego Esquivel of Sherwood

• Karson Jerry of Sherwood

• Leianna King of North Little Rock

• Teecumpsy Wiggins of North Little Rock

• Shamar Evans of North Little Rock

• Mallari Jordan of Sherwood

• Christopher Scott of North Little Rock

• Axton Tackett of North Little Rock

• Bridget Davenport of Sherwood

• Maci Aldrich of North Little Rock

• Megan Berry of Sherwood

• Anna Burr of North Little Rock

• Michael Gruenwald of North Little Rock

• Nyla Harris of North Little Rock

• Jared Holt of North Little Rock

• Maria Lambdin of Sherwood

• Hope Lybrand of Sherwood

• Willard Moore of North Little Rock

• Peyton Perks of North Little Rock

• Sarah Roden of North Little Rock

• Paris Shipman of Sherwood

• Manvinder Singh of North Little Rock

• Emma Thomas of North Little Rock

• Tykirra Warren of Sherwood

• Grace Wilson of North Little Rock

• Kristine Christopher of Sherwood

• Ulonda Evans of North Little Rock

• Shantaya Jones-Bryan of Sherwood

• Loralea Broderick of Sherwood

• Tyra Abston of Sherwood

• Aidan Carrell of Sherwood

• Kendra Degarmo of Sherwood

• Kai Flenders of Sherwood

• Nina Hale of North Little Rock

• Alan Ingram of North Little Rock

• Abigail Moussa of North Little Rock

• Dayna Thomas of North Little Rock

• Desiree Williams of Sherwood

• Cody Snow of Sherwood

• Katrina Beaver of North Little Rock

• Brody Bunting of Sherwood

• Katelynn Burdiek of Sherwood

• Jacob Delashaw of North Little Rock

• Loresa Dion of Sherwood

• Kyo Dong of North Little Rock

• Lindsey Eidt of North Little Rock

• Nehir Eker of North Little Rock

• Brandon Gonzalez of North Little Rock

• Bethanie Gourley of North Little Rock

• Addison Grogan of Sherwood

• Tamara Harris of North Little Rock

• Ethan Herndon of Sherwood

• Nathanael Hicks of North Little Rock

• Isabella Keaton of North Little Rock

• Thanh Le of Sherwood

• Mariane Shiechyll Maniago of Sherwood

• Graham Martin of North Little Rock

• JaLisa Martin of Sherwood

• Allison Mercer of North Little Rock

• Annalyse Miles of North Little Rock

• Paul Piechocki of Sherwood

• Jonathan Satterwhite of North Little Rock

• Abigail Steele of Sherwood

• Ngoc Tuyet T Tran of Sherwood

• Sherika Williams of North Little Rock

• Judyth Woods of North Little Rock

• Cory Wright of North Little Rock

• Ashley Wyatt of Sherwood

UA Little Rock names Fall 2025 Dean’s List: The University of Arkansas at Little Rock has announced the list of students who have been named to the Dean’s List for the Fall 2025 semester.

The Dean’s List recognized over 1,900 students with superior academic performances at the end of the semester.

To be on the Dean’s List, UA Little Rock students must earn at least nine credit hours and maintain at least a 3.5 GPA.

North of the River students who made the Dean’s List include:

• Imani Haynes of Maumelle

• Jeremiah Jackson of Maumelle

• April Sherwin of Maumelle

• Shantay Ross of Maumelle

• Logan Scheiderer of Maumelle

• Noah Browning of Maumelle

• Jacob Zabala of Maumelle

• David Fong of Maumelle

• Zachary Harrison of Maumelle

• Ayan Huda of Maumelle

• KAROLINE PUTNAM of Maumelle

• Jacob Blackburn of Maumelle

• Peyton Johnson of Maumelle

• Brandon Nichols of Maumelle

• Elisha Robinson of Maumelle

• Conner Ralls of Maumelle

• Isaac Fredricks of Maumelle

• Isabella Immel of Maumelle

• Karen Johnson of Maumelle

• David Pearson of Maumelle

• Hayden Phillips of Maumelle

• Lydia Thomas of Maumelle

• Stephona Williams of Maumelle

• Dilasa Yaman of Maumelle

• Conner Callaway of Maumelle

• Mayonna Bizzell of Maumelle

• Justin Chadwick of Maumelle

• Cynthia Diaz of Maumelle

• Ashlynn Maxwell of Maumelle

• Natalie Moore of Maumelle

• Kylie Wall of Maumelle

• Emily Schade of Maumelle

• Leila Scroggins of Maumelle

• Ahmed Ahmed of Maumelle

• Kristi Bryant of Maumelle

• Charles Carlisle of Maumelle

• Katherine Ervin of Maumelle

• Lane Evans of Maumelle

• Joshua Fong of Maumelle

• Michael Gasper of Maumelle

• LaToniah Harton of Maumelle

• Cameron Johnson of Maumelle

• Seneve Lihono of Maumelle

• Morgan Mincer of Maumelle

• Anna Price of Maumelle

• Batoul Saleh of Maumelle

• Anyston Singleton of Maumelle

• Aliyah Smith of Maumelle

• Tracie Stenhouse Wicker of Maumelle

• Tayla Twisdale of Maumelle

• Jasmine Vazkez of Maumelle

• Dal’Asia Whorton of Maumelle

• Virginia Singleton of North Little Rock

• CheDaidre Jones of North Little Rock

• Sarah Coile of Sherwood

• Ashley Beach of Sherwood

• Audriana Luckett of North Little Rock

• Kyle Morrison of Sherwood

• Terrika Smith of North Little Rock

• Jame’cia Belle of North Little Rock

• Cassie Butler of North Little Rock

• Maitlyn Harrison of Sherwood

• Sydney Davidson of Sherwood

• Jack Seabaugh of North Little Rock

• Chloe Brawley of Sherwood

• Anastasia Aldridge of North Little Rock

• Sarah Brackenbury of North Little Rock

• Teaira Evans of North Little Rock

• Lillian Green of North Little Rock

• Nathan Hughes of North Little Rock

• Khaliah Keith of North Little Rock

• John Kinder of North Little Rock

• Alaina Schingler of North Little Rock

• Denzel Saucedo of Sherwood

• Reana Dixon of North Little Rock

• Diego Esquivel of Sherwood

• Karson Jerry of Sherwood

• Diana Johnson of Sherwood

• Arianna Kegler of Sherwood

• Leianna King of North Little Rock

• Dajany Ramos-Cano of North Little Rock

• Sukhbir Singh of Sherwood

• Kiralynn Stigall of Sherwood

• Teecumpsy Wiggins of North Little Rock

• Shamar Evans of North Little Rock

• Mallari Jordan of Sherwood

• Kaleb Hatley of North Little Rock

• Martia Donahue of Sherwood

• Winnie Li of North Little Rock

• Micheal Richter of North Little Rock

• Miya Fillmore of North Little Rock

• Juquray Carter of North Little Rock

• Shane Dreher of Sherwood

• Starlesha Riley of Sherwood

• Christopher Scott of North Little Rock

• Axton Tackett of North Little Rock

• Ana Sofia Villegas of Sherwood

• Bridget Davenport of Sherwood

• Stefan Jacquot of North Little Rock

• Ashley Lopez of North Little Rock

• Johnathan Parks of North Little Rock

• Jamal Hockaday of Sherwood

• Tugba Agdas of North Little Rock

• Maci Aldrich of North Little Rock

• Kylie Belverstone of Sherwood

• Megan Berry of Sherwood

• Chloe Brown of Sherwood

• Ja’nyia Burks of North Little Rock

• Julie Burns of Sherwood

• Anna Burr of North Little Rock

• Carlee Felty of Sherwood

• Michael Gruenwald of North Little Rock

• Nyla Harris of North Little Rock

• Jared Holt of North Little Rock

• Maria Lambdin of Sherwood

• Justin Le of North Little Rock

• Hope Lybrand of Sherwood

• Willard Moore of North Little Rock

• Peyton Perks of North Little Rock

• Sarea Pitts of Sherwood

• Jesse Reed of North Little Rock

• Sarah Roden of North Little Rock

• Paris Shipman of Sherwood

• Manvinder Singh of North Little Rock

• Emma Thomas of North Little Rock

• Tykirra Warren of Sherwood

• Maisen White of North Little Rock

• Grace Wilson of North Little Rock

• Kristine Christopher of Sherwood

• Ulonda Evans of North Little Rock

• Shantaya Jones-Bryan of Sherwood

• Cheryl Thomas of North Little Rock

• Luke Walther of North Little Rock

• Loralea Broderick of Sherwood

• Tyra Abston of Sherwood

• Bayan Aysheh of Sherwood

• Maddux Bowen of Sherwood

• Stephanie Carballido of North Little Rock

• Aidan Carrell of Sherwood

• Lauren Cavnor of North Little Rock

• Kendra Degarmo of Sherwood

• Kai Flenders of Sherwood

• Nina Hale of North Little Rock

• Alan Ingram of North Little Rock

• Prabhjot Kaur of Sherwood

• Melissa Mathis of North Little Rock

• Abigail Moussa of North Little Rock

• Mya Ragland of North Little Rock

• Dayna Thomas of North Little Rock

• Desiree Williams of Sherwood

• Cody Snow of Sherwood

• Keyara Anderson of North Little Rock

• Ayden Bauman of North Little Rock

• Katrina Beaver of North Little Rock

• Lauren Bowser of North Little Rock

• Allen Brown of North Little Rock

• Kyle Brown of North Little Rock

• Brody Bunting of Sherwood

• Katelynn Burdiek of Sherwood

• Tearra Burnett of North Little Rock

• Shatara Conway of Sherwood

• Carter Coven of North Little Rock

• Patricia Cowan of Sherwood

• Dekoda Davis of North Little Rock

• Jacob Delashaw of North Little Rock

• Loresa Dion of Sherwood

• Christian Dominguez of North Little Rock

• Kyo Dong of North Little Rock

• Lindsey Eidt of North Little Rock

• Nehir Eker of North Little Rock

• Annalisa Elrey of North Little Rock

• Emma Emery of North Little Rock

• Hayden Eoff of North Little Rock

• Monica Esquivel of North Little Rock

• Caleb Farmer of North Little Rock

• Brandon Gonzalez of North Little Rock

• Bethanie Gourley of North Little Rock

• Addison Grogan of Sherwood

• Tamara Harris of North Little Rock

• Travis Haskin of North Little Rock

• Sydnee Haynes of North Little Rock

• Cecilia Henderson of North Little Rock

• Ethan Herndon of Sherwood

• Nathanael Hicks of North Little Rock

• Yolanda Holmes of North Little Rock

• Joshua Hunter of North Little Rock

• Isabella Keaton of North Little Rock

• Kassidy Lane of North Little Rock

• Thanh Le of Sherwood

• Grant Lewis of Sherwood

• Huy Luong of North Little Rock

• Mariane Shiechyll Maniago of Sherwood

• Graham Martin of North Little Rock

• JaLisa Martin of Sherwood

• Fernanda Martinez Lopez of North Little Rock

• Allison Mercer of North Little Rock

• Annalyse Miles of North Little Rock

• Austin Miller of Sherwood

• Olivia Molitor of North Little Rock

• Wyatt Niemotka of Sherwood

• Grace Pamudja of Sherwood

• Alex Paramo of North Little Rock

• Paul Piechocki of Sherwood

• Sydney Plaquet of North Little Rock

• Marcus Reams of Sherwood

• Latasha Reyes of Sherwood

• Montoyia Richard of North Little Rock

• Jonathan Satterwhite of North Little Rock

• Cameron Sharp of Sherwood

• Christopher Simpson of North Little Rock

• Gavin Smith of North Little Rock

• Monica Soria of North Little Rock

• Jessica Stahulak of Sherwood

• Abigail Steele of Sherwood

• Victoria Stewart of Sherwood

• Emma Strickland of North Little Rock

• Julio Torrez of North Little Rock

• Ngoc Tuyet T Tran of Sherwood

• Ashlee Walker of North Little Rock

• Umeko Watson of North Little Rock

• Akilah Wedderburn of Sherwood

• Nicole Wells of North Little Rock

• Delvis Williams of North Little Rock

• Sherika Williams of North Little Rock

• Skye Wilson of Sherwood

• Alesha Winter of Sherwood

• Judyth Woods of North Little Rock

• Cory Wright of North Little Rock

• Ashley Wyatt of Sherwood

NOTE: Coming next week, University of Arkansas academic honors and graduates, the following week will be out-of-state college and university honorees and graduates.,

Sparklight to award $30,000 for STEM education

Sparklight®, a leading fiber-fueled internet provider, is launching its 2026 “Dream Bigger” contest, awarding $30,000 to support science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education for K–12 students. Twelve winning schools or organizations will receive $2,500 each.

Through the annual contest, Sparklight aims to help educators bring hands-on STEM experiences into classrooms and learning environments, equipping K–12 students with skills that spark curiosity, problem-solving and new ideas.

Entries for the 2026 contest will be accepted fnowthrough March 10 at sparklight.com/contest. Finalists will be selected by Sparklight, and the 12 winners will be chosen through public voting from March 12 through March 18 at sparklight.com/contest.

Smart Driver class set

An AARP Smart Driver Class will be held at Maumelle Center on the Lake on March 10 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

It is open to AARP members & non-member, $20 for members, $25 for non-members, cash or check only. Some insurance companies will give a discount with completion of the class – check with your insurance agent. To register, call or text Ellie Wilson 501-247-5935.

Subscribe if you like, pay if you can

Health

Pandemic deaths unknown

The state Department of Health didn’t update the state’s dashboard this week, again, and deaths still total 532 for the past year. There’s no tab created for 2025 either and the virus has now killed 14,162 Arkansans since the pandemic began then. That would mean the pandemic death toll has now passed Marion’s 13,635 people, the state’s 29th largest city.

Covid toolkit

There’s now a one-stop shop to learn about vaccination sites and other Covid related information. Click here to learn more.

If you don’t want to get sick and die, there’s some things you can do:

• Get vaccinated

• Get boosted

• Wear a mask

• Avoid crowds

Subscribe if you like, pay if you can

Note to subscribers: An annual or monthly subscription is billed to your debit or credit card as ARKANSAS.SUBSTACK.COM and if you have questions, please email arkansas@substack.com. Thanks for reading and subscribing!

The Headlines

• MEETINGS: A regular meeting of the North Little Rock School Board will meet at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday at the district’s administration building. The North Little Rock City Council will meet next Monday night at City Hall. Both meetings will be livestreamed on YouTube and the public is welcome at both. There’s several upcoming meetings for the sales tax extension in Maumelle and for more, keep scrolling.

• EVENTS: Today is Ash Wednesday and since we’ve got some churching to do tonight, you’re getting a very special early edition. Monday was Presidents Day, so trash and recycling are running one-day delayed this week. There’s much more coming up, so, as always, keep scrolling.

Subscribe if you like, pay if you can

Vote!

Early voting started on Tuesday, and will continue through March 2. Election Day is Tuesday, March 3.

While there’s some races of interest for North of the River, the thing catching the most buzz is the proposed extension of the 1/2 cent sales tax in Maumelle.

There will be a total of seven questions on the ballot for Maumelle voters to choose from covering six different projects as well as the retirement of the current bond debt.

The next Town Hall is this coming Tuesday at Maumelle Charter Middle School. and it should be a lively meeting as the proposed indoor pool at the Center on the Lake will be discussed.

Proposed bond issue

• Total: $34.26 million

• Question 1: Refunding 2018 bonds - $3.05M

• Question 2: Street improvements - $3.86M

• Question 3: Center on the Lake/Indoor pool - $5.39M

• Question 4: Public Safety Training facility - $5.19M

• Question 5: Fire station improvements - $8.45M

• Question 6: Lake Valencia improvements - $3.22M

• Question 7: Field turf for Parks & Rec - $5.1M

How much money?

• The city’s ½ cent sales tax brings in approximately $1.8 million annually and if the all seven questions were to pass, it would take about 20 years to pay off.

Upcoming meetings

• Tuesday, Feb. 24: 6 p.m. at Maumelle Charter Middle School | Public Meeting to discuss Bond Questions 1, 2 and 3

• Civic Group discussions are also planned for the Maumelle Rotary Club, Maumelle Industrial Roundtable, Maumelle Fraternal Order of Police, Maumelle Fire Fighters Association, Maumelle Community Partners and the Maumelle Area Chamber of Commerce Board

Election Calendar

• Early Voting Dates: Now through March 2

• Early Voting Hours: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday – Friday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays and 8 a.m to -5 p.m. on Monday March 2.

• March 3: Preferential Primary Election/Annual School Election/Nonpartisan Judicial General Election

If a runoff is needed in the primary, it will be March 31

Early Voting Locations

• Pulaski County Regional Building, 501 West Markham, Little Rock

• Sue Cowan Williams Library, 1800 S. Chester St.

• Dee Brown Library, 6325 Baseline Road, Little Rock

• Thompson Library, 38 Rahling Circle, Little Rock

• William F Laman Public Library, 2801 Orange St., NorthLittle Rock

• Jacksonville Community Center, 5 Municipal Drive, Jacksonville

• Jess Odom Community Center, 1100 Edgewood Drive, Maumelle

• First Christian Church of Sherwood, 2803 E. Kiehl Ave., Sherwood

• McMath Library, 2100 John Barrow Road, Little Rock

• Hillary Clinton Children’s Library, 4800 W. 10th St., Little Rock

• John Gould Fletcher Library, 823 N. Buchanan St., Little Rock

• Terry Library, 2015 Napa Valley Drive, Little Rock

Subscribe now

Casino Night is Thursday night

The Maumelle Area Chamber of Commerce’s Casino Night has been rescheduled and will now be thisThursday, Feb. 19, and will start at 6 p.m. It will still be at the Maumelle Event Center and to register click here. Also check out the flyer below for more information.

State of the City

The Maumelle Area Chamber of Commerce and the city of Maumelle will be having an event at the Maumelle Country Club on Monday, Feb. 23 and the State of the City will be delivered by Mayor Caleb Norris.

The event is scheduled to start at 5 p.m. and last until 7 p.m.

Presenting sponsors are: Alessi Keyes Construction, First Service Bank, Holloway Engineering, Surveying & Civil Design, Maumelle Country Club, MidArk Insurance Group- Waylon Biggs Agency and The City of Maumelle.

For more, click the flyer below or here to register.

Subscribe now

Public Hearing Notice

The Maumelle Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on Thursday, Feb. 26 at 6:30 p.m.. at City Hall to consider the rezoning from C-1, R-1 and R-2 to PRD and PCD, and to consider a land use change from COMM, SFD & MFD to SUC & SUR, for property located at East of Odom Boulevard, West of Naylor Dr. and Millwood Cir, and South of Ridgeview Trail. This hearing will precede the monthly Planning Commission meeting. An agenda for that meeting has not yet been released. For more, call 501-851-2500.

Nominations open for Arkansas Women’s Hall of Fame

The Arkansas Women’s Hall of Fame is seeking nominations for the 2026 Induction Class.

The Hall was created to honor, in perpetuity, women whose contributions have influenced the direction of Arkansas in their community or the state.

Nominees are not limited to a certain field or accomplishment and can include pioneers, philanthropists, educators, entrepreneurs, athletes, artists, business leaders and political figures.

Nominations must be submitted by Friday, March 6, 2026. Criteria and nomination forms can be found on the website at www.ARWomensHallofFame.com. The 2026 Induction Ceremony is scheduled for Thursday, Aug. 27 at the North Little Rock Event Center in the Centennial Bank Ballroom. Visitors to the website will find more information about the event and the hall’s past inductees.

Share

Education news

Maumelle’s Reynolds works for ESPN

Colin Reynolds, who attends the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater and is of Maumelle, was one of more than a dozen students who helped with the Division III school’s game broadcasts on ESPN.

Reynolds, above, who graduated from LISA Academy West in 2022 and also interned with KARK-TV and the Arkansas Travelers last summer, worked the production for ESPN’s halftime show during the D-III football playoffs, seen below.

Wisconsin-Whitewater is a public school and has an enrollment of around 11,000 students. It also operates UWW-TV, which broadcasts around 60 games and other events on campus during the school year. They also assist ESPN when the network broadcasts a game there as part of the ESPN+ streaming service.

For more information on UWW-TV, visit uwwtv.org.

Telcoe Federal Credit Union to have event at Maumelle High School

Telcoe Federal Credit Union, in partnership with Pulaski County Special School District, is hosting a Financial Reality Fair at Maumelle High School this week.

The event will be Friday, Feb. 20, and is scheduled to start at 9 a.m. It will be held in the high school’s auxiliary gym.

The reality fairs provide students with hands-on experience at making real-life financial decisions, equipping them with essential money management skills as they prepare for adulthood.

Another Reality Fair will be held at Robinson High School in March while an event at Sylvan Hills was postponed due to the wintry weather and will now be held in March, with that date still to be determined.

During the fair, students receive an entry-level salary for a career of interest then navigate through a series of interactive booths. Booths will feature realistic pricing options, allowing students to determine how much they were willing to allocate for each expense, reinforcing the importance of budgeting and financial planning.

Participants will face decisions such as choosing between renting an apartment or buying a home, selecting a vehicle, and estimating costs for utilities and insurance. They will also explore options for entertainment, discretionary spending, and investments, encouraging them to think critically about their financial priorities.

Each booth will be staffed by volunteers from various businesses throughout central Arkansas.

Visit www.telcoe.com to learn more.

Charter school space gets a little more crowded

The Arkansas Outdoor Academy recently announced that it will be launching as a tuition-free public charter school in Little Rock and will open this fall, serving grades 6 through 9 with additional grades being added until 2030, when the school will serve the high school class years of Sophomore through Senior,.

The school will be located in Little Rock’s Riverdale neighborhood and is described as a blend of “rigorous, state aligned academics with hands-on instruction designed to engage students through movement, exploration, and real-world application.”

The school said, “core subjects are intentionally taught both indoors and outdoors, with approximately half of instruction planned in real-world environments.”

“Students learn best when learning feels connected and meaningful,” said Christopher Horton, co-founder of Arkansas Outdoor Academy, in a release. “This school was created for students whose strengths are not always visible in traditional classroom settings. When learning is active and grounded in real environments, students gain confidence and engagement increases.”

Other co-founders include Teal Lovelady, and Sharon Bennett. All have extensive experience in education.

Applications are now open for students entering grades 6 through 9 for the Fall 2026 school year. Families can learn more and apply at https://www.arkansasoutdooracademy.org.

UCA names December 2025 graduates

The University of Central Arkansas held December commencement ceremonies on Dec. 11-12, in the Farris Center on campus, conferring approximately 700 undergraduate and graduate degrees and certificates from the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences; College of Business; College of Education; College of Health and Behavioral Sciences; College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics; and the Graduate School.

North of the River graduates include:

• William McDonald of Maumelle graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Writing/Rhetoric/Information Design.

• Kynia Jackson of Maumelle graduated with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing.

• Frederick Sharkey of Maumelle graduated with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Innovation & Entrepreneurship.

• Kaylee Munnerlyn of Maumelle graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Education in Elementary Education K-6.

• Camryn Joyner of Maumelle graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science.

• Tanner Wenger of Maumelle graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design.

• Chacall Charles of Maumelle graduated with a Master of Science in Health Promotion.

• Megan Heaton of Maumelle graduated with a Graduate Certificate in Dyslexia.

• Zoe McMillen of Maumelle graduated with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Innovation & Entrepreneurship.

• Ennsleigh Levengood of Maumelle graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology.

• Scott McFarland of Maumelle graduated with a Master of Business Administration in Business Administration.

• Henry Lea of Maumelle graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in History.

• Taylor Sherrill of Sherwood graduated with a Master of Arts in Teaching in Teaching.

• Hayley Turner of North Little Rock graduated with a Master of Science in Library Media/Information Technology.

• Dalonia Jenkins of North Little Rock graduated with a Master of Science in School Leadership Management & Administration.

• Madyson Bowman of Sherwood graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences.

• Emma Rhodes of Sherwood graduated with a Master of Business Administration in Business Administration.

• Elizabeth Colburn of Sherwood graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art.

• Savannah Crow of Sherwood graduated with a Certificate of Proficiency in Historic Preservation.

• Arriana Teem of North Little Rock graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics.

• Carlos Campanur of North Little Rock graduated with a Bachelor of Music Education in Music Education.

• Regina Flud of North Little Rock graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Addiction Studies.

• Kennedi Carroll of Sherwood graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology.

• Peyton Davis of North Little Rock graduated with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Insurance & Risk Management.

• Zach Rushin of Sherwood graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism.

• Brooklynn Parker of North Little Rock graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Family and Consumer Science.

• Deneka White of North Little Rock graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Family and Consumer Science.

• Jiya Adams of North Little Rock graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity Management.

• Taylor McFelson of North Little Rock graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Education in Middle Level Education.

• Olivia Cooksey of Sherwood graduated with a Master of Arts in Teaching in Teaching.

• Sarah Crouch of North Little Rock graduated with a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing.

• Lauren Darr of North Little Rock graduated with a Master of Arts in Teaching in Special Education.

• Paul McCowan of North Little Rock graduated with a Doctor of Philosophy in Change Leadership.

• Abby Moore of North Little Rock graduated with a Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling.

• Diana Pontalti Giordani of North Little Rock graduated with a Master of Business Administration in Business Administration.

• Kathryn Ferguson of Sherwood graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science.

• McKenzie Hubbard of Little Rock graduated with an Associate of Arts in General Studies.

• Jalin Smith of North Little Rock graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science.

• Dasha Young of North Little Rock graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry.

University of Central Arkansas Fall 2025 Dean’s List

The University of Central Arkansas congratulates more than 1,600 students who were named to the fall 2025 Dean’s List.

North of the River students include:

• William McDonald of Maumelle.

• James Joyner of Maumelle.

• Kynia Jackson of Maumelle.

• Emma Williams of Maumelle.

• Malingo Matute of Maumelle.

• Reilly McCann of Maumelle.

• Noah Johnson of Maumelle.

• Anya Willis of Maumelle.

• Morgan Harrison of Maumelle.

• Samuel Schimmel of Maumelle.

• Canyon Fosburgh of Maumelle.

• Jadan Moore of Maumelle.

• Hannah Dickinson of Maumelle.

• Elizabeth Roy of Maumelle.

• Neela Vint of Maumelle.

• Andrew Carrington of Maumelle.

• Zoe McMillen of Maumelle.

• Natalie Wood-Carden of Maumelle.

• Mitchell Davis of Maumelle.

• Emery Kelley of Maumelle.

• Jancey Turner of Maumelle.

• Olivia Jackson of Maumelle.

• Cambria Tedrow of Maumelle.

• Ennsleigh Levengood of Maumelle.

• Ayda Lovett of Maumelle.

• Richard Vong of Maumelle.

• Ashton Whittington of North Little Rock.

• Jacob Barham of Sherwood.

• Savannah Crow of Sherwood.

• Grayce Nelson of North Little Rock.

• Julian Strain of North Little Rock.

• Piper Chun of North Little Rock.

• Hailey Richardson of North Little Rock.

• Mary Coleman of Sherwood.

• Madeline Koger of Prescott.

• Abbie Killingsworth of North Little Rock.

• Faith Maynard of Sherwood.

• Emily Phifer of North Little Rock.

• Azriel Woolfolk of Sherwood.

• William Brown of North Little Rock.

• Desean Williams of North Little Rock.

• Eleanor Blakely of Sherwood.

• Cydney Davis of North Little Rock.

• Jayce Horton of Sherwood.

• Hannah Hughes of North Little Rock.

• Madison Hurst of North Little Rock.

• Zaria Montgomery of Sherwood.

• Micah Smith of Sherwood.

• David Hussey of North Little Rock.

• Addison Pettit of Sherwood.

• Lillian Roberts of North Little Rock.

• Brenae Allen of North Little Rock.

• Madison Bailey of Sherwood.

• Courtney Baker of North Little Rock.

• Alana Clark of Sherwood.

• Marlie Dedmon of Sherwood.

• Rylee Ellis of Sherwood.

• Olivia Jones of North Little Rock.

• Brooklynn Parker of North Little Rock.

• Jacob Silva of North Little Rock.

• Braum Smith of Sherwood.

• Caleb Stafford of Sherwood.

• Deneka White of North Little Rock.

• Katelynn Lee of North Little Rock.

• Myron Nix of North Little Rock.

• Jaydon Nobles of North Little Rock.

• Hudson Phillips of Sherwood.

• Traven Spencer of North Little Rock.

• Keziah Stinyard of Sherwood.

• Hanah Whitener of North Little Rock.

• Jace Wooten of North Little Rock.

• Macayla Chandler of Sherwood.

• Briana Chatman of Sherwood.

• Sharlotte Kim Lua of Sherwood.

• Jet Van Cleve of Sherwood.

• Alexis Weeks of Sherwood.

• Brasen Winchell of North Little Rock.

• Mikhyla Hart of North Little Rock.

• Murphy Smith of North Little Rock.

• Vanasia Perry of Sherwood.

• Beatrice Baker of North Little Rock.

• Sara Jones of Sherwood.

• Jack Runsick of North Little Rock.

• Joevon Banister of North Little Rock.

• Emma Eaton of North Little Rock.

• Addelynn Rose of North Little Rock.

• Abby Lee of North Little Rock.

• Graham Melton of North Little Rock.

• Yuvraj Singh of Sherwood.

• Love Quenga of North Little Rock.

• Mary Leonard of Sherwood.

• Julus Norris of North Little Rock.

• Alexa Okpala of Sherwood.

• Kaley Jordan of Sherwood.

• Joanna Price of North Little Rock.

• Kiley Reyes of North Little Rock.

• Elizabeth Hankins of Sherwood.

• Da’Mya Batemon of Sherwood.

• Nia Bell of Sherwood.

• Avery Bilon of Sherwood.

• Landon Carter of Sherwood.

• Braden Traylor of Sherwood.

• Bailey Verdell of Sherwood.

• Faith Young of Sherwood.

• Kohlin Billings of Sherwood.

• Adrianna Rodgers of North Little Rock.

• Grant Baker of North Little Rock.

Eligibility on the Dean’s List requires at least a 3.5 GPA with a minimum course load of 12 credit hours.

President’s List Fall 2025: The University of Central Arkansas congratulates more than 1,200 students who were named as Presidential Scholars.

North of the River students include:

• Asia DeLoach of Maumelle.

• Kaylee Munnerlyn of Maumelle.

• Karter Pawelczak of Maumelle.

• Jewell Callahan of Maumelle.

• Maggie Green of Maumelle.

• Collin Womack of Maumelle.

• Eric Frank of Maumelle.

• Ryan Brekeen of Maumelle.

• Jacob Laney of Maumelle.

• Hannah Matheny of Maumelle.

• Kerrigan Quast of Maumelle.

• Blakely Rochelle of Maumelle.

• Alexis Meeks of Maumelle.

• Olivia Oury of Maumelle.

• Patrick Shultz of Maumelle.

• Marley Page of Maumelle.

• Daniel Franklin of Maumelle.

• Lennon Tusieseina of Maumelle.

• Benjamin Ferguson of Maumelle.

• Camryn Ford of Maumelle.

• Kayla Hill of North Little Rock.

• Peyton Gober of Maumelle.

• Calleigh Kemp of Maumelle.

• Scarlett Cash of Maumelle.

• Zoey Taylor of Maumelle.

• Rachel Blair of Maumelle.

• Hannah Williams of Maumelle.

• Elizabeth Colburn of Sherwood.

• Allison Dennis of Sherwood.

• Collin Joseph of North Little Rock.

• Bevan Sober of North Little Rock.

• Jamie Jewell of North Little Rock.

• Skylar Nelsen of North Little Rock.

• Gabrielle Stokes of North Little Rock.

• Jackson Ray of North Little Rock.

• Carlos Campanur of North Little Rock.

• Kylie Higgins of Sherwood.

• Kailyn Jeffries of North Little Rock.

• Thanh Mai of North Little Rock.

• Arden Schaap of North Little Rock.

• Seth Dawson of North Little Rock.

• Chance Phillips of North Little Rock.

• Olivia Rankin of Sherwood.

• Ryan Cromer of Sherwood.

• Campbell Weeks of Sherwood.

• Kennedy Besancon of North Little Rock.

• Meredith Lipsey of Sherwood.

• Clara Principe of North Little Rock.

• Anneke Cranor of Sherwood.

• Claire Taylor of North Little Rock.

• Caleb Young of Sherwood.

• Erica Gourley of North Little Rock.

• Jackson Houser of North Little Rock.

• Caroline Cullum of North Little Rock.

• Victoria Strawn of North Little Rock.

• Kalinda Loomis of North Little Rock.

• Arianna Dobson of Sherwood.

• Brian Harden of Sherwood.

• Dennissa Harris of Sherwood.

• Brittney Huynh of Sherwood.

• Jonathan Wetherington of North Little Rock.

• Lilly Wittenburg of North Little Rock.

• Samantha White of North Little Rock.

• Sophia Brown of Sherwood.

• Susan LePage of Sherwood.

• Kolten Shook of North Little Rock.

• Amirah Watkins of Sherwood.

• Jamaya Williams of North Little Rock.

• Alexis Jones of North Little Rock.

• Hallie Singleton of North Little Rock.

• Kylie Sartain of North Little Rock.

• Hannah Orillion of Sherwood.

• Ashley Tipton of Sherwood.

• Gavin Melton of North Little Rock.

• Naomi Patillo of North Little Rock.

• Zoe Gronwald of North Little Rock.

Students must achieve a 4.0 GPA with a minimum course load of 12 credit hours to qualify as a Presidential Scholar.

NOTE: More, so much more, education news will be published next week and the week after and probably the week after. There’s a bunch and even infinite space has some constraints.

Sparklight to award $30,000 for STEM education

Sparklight®, a leading fiber-fueled internet provider, is launching its 2026 “Dream Bigger” contest, awarding $30,000 to support science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education for K–12 students. Twelve winning schools or organizations will receive $2,500 each.

Through the annual contest, Sparklight aims to help educators bring hands-on STEM experiences into classrooms and learning environments, equipping K–12 students with skills that spark curiosity, problem-solving and new ideas.

Entries for the 2026 contest will be accepted fnowthrough March 10 at sparklight.com/contest. Finalists will be selected by Sparklight, and the 12 winners will be chosen through public voting from March 12 through March 18 at sparklight.com/contest.

Smart Driver class set

An AARP Smart Driver Class will be held at Maumelle Center on the Lake on March 10 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

It is open to AARP members & non-member, $20 for members, $25 for non-members, cash or check only. Some insurance companies will give a discount with completion of the class – check with your insurance agent. To register, call or text Ellie Wilson 501-247-5935.

Subscribe if you like, pay if you can

Sports

Basketball schedules

Maumelle Charter

Boys

• District tournament

Girls

• District tournament

Maumelle

Boys

• Friday, Feb. 20 ... at ... Little Rock Christian Academy ... 7 p.m.

• Tuesday, Feb. 24 ... vs ... Vilonia ... 7 p.m.

• Friday, Feb. 27 ... vs ... Catholic ... 7 p.m.

Girls

• Friday, Feb. 20 ... at ... Little Rock Christian Academy ... 6 p.m.

• Tuesday, Feb. 24 ... vs ... Vilonia ... 6 p.m.

• Friday, Feb. 27 ... vs ... Mount St. Mary Academy ... 6 p.m.

CAC

Boys

• Friday, Feb. 20 ... vs ... Heber Springs ... 7 p.m.

• District tournament

Girls

• District tournament

North Little Rock

Boys

• Tuesday, Feb. 24 ... vs ... Bryant ... 7 p.m.

• Thursday, Feb. 26 ... vs ... Cabot ... 7 p.m.

Girls

• Tuesday, Feb. 24 ... vs ... Bryant ... 6 p.m.

• Thursday, Feb. 26 ... vs ... Cabot ... 6 p.m.

Subscribe if you like, pay if you can

Health

Pandemic deaths unknown

The state Department of Health didn’t update the state’s dashboard this week, again, and deaths still total 532 for the past year. There’s no tab created for 2025 either and the virus has now killed 14,162 Arkansans since the pandemic began then. That would mean the pandemic death toll has now passed Marion’s 13,635 people, the state’s 29th largest city.

Covid toolkit

There’s now a one-stop shop to learn about vaccination sites and other Covid related information. Click here to learn more.

If you don’t want to get sick and die, there’s some things you can do:

• Get vaccinated

• Get boosted

• Wear a mask

• Avoid crowds

Subscribe if you like, pay if you can

Note to subscribers: An annual or monthly subscription is billed to your debit or credit card as ARKANSAS.SUBSTACK.COM and if you have questions, please email arkansas@substack.com. Thanks for reading and subscribing!

The Headlines

• MEETINGS: A special call meeting of the North Little Rock School Board will meet at 5:30 p.m. tonight at the district’s administration building. The Maumelle City Council will meet next Tuesday night at City Hall. Pushed back until Tuesday due to the Presidents Day holiday on Monday. Both meetings will be livestreamed on YouTube and the public is welcome at both. There’s several upcoming meetings for the sales tax extension in Maumelle and for more, keep scrolling.

• EVENTS: Valentine’s Day is this Saturday and while you should have already ordered those flowers, there’s still time! probably order those flowers now. There’s no time like the present. As always Frances Flower Shop is our preferred florist at ArkansasNewsrooom.com HQ, mostly because they deliver most anywhere in Pulaski County. That’s also a non-sponsored recommendation. We just like ‘em. Click the graphic below for more. Next Monday is Presidents Day and the various government offices will be closed for the holiday. Trash and recycling will also run-one day delayed next week as well.

  

Subscribe if you like, pay if you can

States of the City

Or should that be the state of the cities? Anyway, the North Little Rock State of the City can be viewed by clicking the thumbnail below.

The Maumelle Area Chamber of Commerce and the city of Maumelle will be having an event at the Maumelle Country Club on Monday, Feb. 23 and the State of the City will be delivered by Mayor Caleb Norris.

The event is scheduled to start at 5 p.m. and last until 7 p.m.

Presenting sponsors are: Alessi Keyes Construction, First Service Bank, Holloway Engineering, Surveying & Civil Design, Maumelle Country Club, MidArk Insurance Group- Waylon Biggs Agency and The City of Maumelle.

For more, click the flyer below or here to register.

Subscribe now

Maumelle Charter High School earns AP School Honor Roll Platinum designation

Maumelle Charter High School has been named to the College Board’s 2025 Advanced Placement School Honor Roll, earning a Platinum distinction.

The AP School Honor Roll recognizes schools that expand student access to Advanced Placement coursework while maintaining strong performance. Schools qualify annually based on criteria tied to college readiness, participation, and exam results.

According to the College Board, 100% of Maumelle Charter seniors took at least one AP exam during high school. Fifty-nine percent earned a score of 3 or higher on at least one exam, and 22% completed five or more AP exams.

“Our AP pass rate has quadrupled over the past four years,” said MCHS Principal Katie Johnson. “Fifty-nine percent of students in grades 9–12 earned college credit through AP exams. We also had 56 AP Scholars, and eight students earned AP Capstone diplomas. This success reflects the hard work of our students, teachers, and staff.”

Maumelle Charter High School offers 20 AP courses taught by 17 AP-certified teachers, along with 13 Pre-AP courses and AP Capstone Diploma certification.

Maumelle Charter High School is a public charter school serving grades 8–12 as part of the Academics Plus Public Charter Schools system, which includes four campuses serving nearly 2,000 students statewide. The school consistently ranks in the top 30% of Arkansas high schools and maintains a graduation rate above the state average.

The College Board’s Advanced Placement Program allows high school students to take college-level courses and earn college credit or advanced placement based on exam performance.

Share

Town Hall meetings continue on sales tax extension

On Tuesday night, the second of several town halls and information sessions on the proposed ½ cent sales extension in the city of Maumelle.

This meeting covered Questions 1, 4 and 5.

Question 1 is, of course, the one that will retire the current bond debt that would then allow for new bonds to be issued.

If Question 1 fails, then the current debt of a little more than $3 million would still be on the books and the 1/2 cent sales tax would be collected until it was paid off.

If Question 1 passes, then the current 1/2 cent sales tax would continue and the amount of bond debt that would be financed would depend on how many of the remaining questions pass and if all do, that would be $34.26 million but potentially less if some questions don’t pass.

Questions 4 and 5 are both related to public safety with the first being for a public safety training facility while the second would be for improvements to the city’s fire station.

The facility would be $5.19 million, while the improvements is the single largest bond issue proposed at $8.45 million.

The meeting was livestreamed on the city’s YouTube channel and can be viewed by clicking the link below.

Early voting begins next Tuesday, Feb. 17, and Election Day will be held Tuesday, March 3.

Proposed bond issue

• Total: $34.26 million

• Question 1: Refunding 2018 bonds - $3.05M

• Question 2: Street improvements - $3.86M

• Question 3: Center on the Lake/Indoor pool - $5.39M

• Question 4: Public Safety Training facility - $5.19M

• Question 5: Fire station improvements - $8.45M

• Question 6: Lake Valencia improvements - $3.22M

• Question 7: Field turf for Parks & Rec - $5.1M

How much money?

• The city’s ½ cent sales tax brings in approximately $1.8 million annually and if the all seven questions were to pass, it would take about 20 years to pay off.

Upcoming meetings

• Today, 8:15 a.m. at Cheers in Maumelle, Coffee with the Mayor

• Tuesday, Feb. 10: 6 p.m. at Maumelle Charter Middle School | Public Meeting to discuss Bond Questions 1, 4 and 5

• Thursday, Feb. 12: 8:30 a.m. Coffee Talk with the Maumelle Area Chamber of Commerce. Click here to register for this chamber eventPre-registration is required and click here to do that.

• Tuesday, Feb. 24: 6 p.m. at Maumelle Charter Middle Schooln | Public Meeting to discuss Bond Questions 1, 2 and 3

• Civic Group discussions are also planned for the Maumelle Rotary Club, Maumelle Industrial Roundtable, Maumelle Fraternal Order of Police, Maumelle Fire Fighters Association, Maumelle Community Partners and the Maumelle Area Chamber of Commerce Board

The first coffee will be at 8:15 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 5 and be at Cheers in Maumelle while the second will be at the Maumelle Area Chamber of Commerce and start at 8:30 a.m. on Feb. 12.

Election Calendar

• Early Voting Dates: Feb. 17 through March 2

• Early Voting Hours: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday – Friday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays and 8 a.m to -5 p.m. on Monday March 2.

• March 3: Preferential Primary Election/Annual School Election/Nonpartisan Judicial General Election

If a runoff is needed in the primary, it will be March 31

Early Voting Locations

• Pulaski County Regional Building, 501 West Markham, Little Rock

• Sue Cowan Williams Library, 1800 S. Chester St.

• Dee Brown Library, 6325 Baseline Road, Little Rock

• Thompson Library, 38 Rahling Circle, Little Rock

• William F Laman Public Library, 2801 Orange St., NorthLittle Rock

• Jacksonville Community Center, 5 Municipal Drive, Jacksonville

• Jess Odom Community Center, 1100 Edgewood Drive, Maumelle

• First Christian Church of Sherwood, 2803 E. Kiehl Ave., Sherwood

• McMath Library, 2100 John Barrow Road, Little Rock

• Hillary Clinton Children’s Library, 4800 W. 10th St., Little Rock

• John Gould Fletcher Library, 823 N. Buchanan St., Little Rock

• Terry Library, 2015 Napa Valley Drive, Little Rock

Share

Casino Night is Feb. 19

The Maumelle Area Chamber of Commerce’s Casino Night has been rescheduled and will now be next Thursday, Feb. 19, and will start at 6 p.m. It will still be at the Maumelle Event Center and to register click here. Also check out the flyer below for more information.

Sparklight brings multi-gig internet to Maumelle, north Pulaski County

Fiber-fueled internet provider Sparklight is bringing enhanced speeds, capacity and reliability to Maumelle and North Little Rock with the launch of its new Multi-Gig internet service.

As streaming, gaming, remote work and smart home technology place greater demands on home networks, reliable high-capacity internet is essential. Sparklight’s Multi-Gig internet is built to keep entire households connected seamlessly, delivering ultra-fast internet speeds up to 2 Gig along with low latency to enhance real-time applications.

“Sparklight’s Multi-Gig internet is built to support everything today’s households do online,” said Kenny Walker, Sparklight Senior Regional Director, South Central. “As a longstanding part of the Maumelle area, we’re elevating our network’s performance so customers can work, learn, stream and connect without limits.”

Customers can further enhance their in-home experience with Sparklight’s intelligent Wi-Fi powered by eero, a whole-home mesh Wi-Fi solution designed to deliver fast, reliable wireless coverage with fewer dead zones. Easy setup and intuitive controls through the eero app allow customers to manage their network with confidence, including device monitoring, network diagnostics, secure guest access and parental controls.

Sparklight’s ongoing infrastructure investment in the Maumelle area underscores its long-term commitment to strengthening the network residents and businesses rely on every day. Over the past three years, Sparklight has invested more than $1 billion in network upgrades across the communities it serves. These enhancements expand network capacity, add additional redundancy and ensure readiness for the next generation of technology — from immersive entertainment to advanced telehealth and evolving smart home innovations.

For more, visit http://www.sparklight.com/internet/2-gig. and www.sparklight.com/wifi.

Sparklight to award $30,000 for STEM education

Sparklight®, a leading fiber-fueled internet provider, is launching its 2026 “Dream Bigger” contest, awarding $30,000 to support science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education for K–12 students. Twelve winning schools or organizations will receive $2,500 each.

Through the annual contest, Sparklight aims to help educators bring hands-on STEM experiences into classrooms and learning environments, equipping K–12 students with skills that spark curiosity, problem-solving and new ideas.

K–12 schools and organizations located in communities Sparklight serves are eligible to enter. Applicants are asked to submit a photo and a written summary explaining how the award will be used to support a STEM project — such as classroom equipment, robotics or science competitions, curriculum development or other materials — and how the project will benefit students.

Entries for the 2026 contest will be accepted from Feb. 17 through March 10 at sparklight.com/contest. Finalists will be selected by Sparklight, and the 12 winners will be chosen through public voting from March 12 through March 18 at sparklight.com/contest.

Smart Driver class set

An AARP Smart Driver Class will be held at Maumelle Center on the Lake on March 10 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

It is open to AARP members & non-member, $20 for members, $25 for non-members, cash or check only. Some insurance companies will give a discount with completion of the class – check with your insurance agent. To register, call or text Ellie Wilson 501-247-5935.

Boozman meets with Special Olympics athletes

In Washington, D.C., U.S. Sen. John Boozman recently met with Special Olympics Arkansas athletes Daniella Davis and Jordan Jackson, both of Forrest City. Their mentor Julie Brown, also of Forrest and Special Olympics Arkansas CEO Terri Weir, of Maumelle. They were joined in Washington by Cassandra Ryan from Special Olympics for Special Olympics Capitol Hill Day.

“I thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to meet with these athletes, mentors and leaders from Special Olympics Arkansas,” Boozman said. “They embody the important mission to promote athletic achievement, build confidence and create bonds that produce life-long memories. We are incredibly proud of Daniella and Jordan and wish them well in competition and beyond.”

Subscribe if you like, pay if you can

Sports

Basketball scoreboard

Compiled by Collin Scott

Maumelle Charter

Boys

• Tuesday, Jan. 6: Episcopal 73 Maumelle 50

• Friday, Jan. 9: Maumelle 65 Lisa Academy North 55

• Tuesday, Jan. 13 : Rose Bud 72 Maumelle 39

Girls

• Tuesday, Jan. 6: Episcopal 58 Maumelle 21

• Tuesday, Jan. 13: Rose Bud 56 Maumelle 33

Maumelle

Boys

• Friday, Jan. 2: Maumelle 75 Morrilton 85

• Tuesday, Jan. 6: Maumelle 66 Jacksonville 46

• Tuesday, Jan. 13: Sylvan Hills 66 Maumelle 65

Girls

• Friday, Jan. 2: Maumelle 42 Morrilton 37

• Tuesday, Jan. 6: Maumelle 51 Jacksonville 35

• Tuesday, Jan. 13: Sylvan Hills 42 Maumelle 39

Basketball schedules

Maumelle Charter

Boys

• District tournament

Girls

• District tournament

Maumelle

Boys

• Friday, Feb. 13 ... vs ... Sylvan Hills ... 7 p.m.

• Tuesday, Feb. 17 ... vs ... Greenbrier ... 7 p.m.

• Friday, Feb. 20 ... at ... Little Rock Christian Academy ... 7 p.m.

• Tuesday, Feb. 24 ... vs ... Vilonia ... 7 p.m.

• Friday, Feb. 27 ... vs ... Catholic ... 7 p.m.

Girls

• Friday, Feb. 13 ... vs ... Sylvan Hills ... 6 p.m.

• Tuesday, Feb. 17 ... vs ... Greenbrier ... 6 p.m.

• Friday, Feb. 20 ... at ... Little Rock Christian Academy ... 6 p.m.

• Tuesday, Feb. 24 ... vs ... Vilonia ... 6 p.m.

• Friday, Feb. 27 ... vs ... Mount St. Mary Academy ... 6 p.m.

CAC

Boys

• Tuesday, Feb. 10: Morrilton 60, CAC 47 | The Mustangs fell short to Morrilton with the final score of 60-47, making their record 12-7. There are few things that need to be cleaned up on both defense and offense. They are still set up to finish strong as they look forward to making the playoffs.

• Friday, Feb. 13 ... at ... Robinson ... 7 p.m.

• Friday, Feb. 20 ... vs ... Heber Springs ... 7 p.m.

• District tournament

Girls

• Friday, Feb. 13 ... vs ... Robinson ... 5 p.m.

• District tournament

North Little Rock

Boys

• Friday, Feb. 13 ... at ... Jonesboro ... 7:30 p.m.

• Tuesday, Feb. 24 ... vs ... Bryant ... 7 p.m.

• Thursday, Feb. 26 ... vs ... Cabot ... 7 p.m.

Girls

• Friday, Feb. 13 ... at ... Jonesboro ... 6 p.m.

• Tuesday, Feb. 24 ... vs ... Bryant ... 6 p.m.

• Thursday, Feb. 26 ... vs ... Cabot ... 6 p.m.

Subscribe if you like, pay if you can

Health

Pandemic deaths unknown

The state Department of Health didn’t update the state’s dashboard this week, again, and deaths still total 532 for the past year. There’s no tab created for 2025 either and the virus has now killed 14,162 Arkansans since the pandemic began then. That would mean the pandemic death toll has now passed Marion’s 13,635 people, the state’s 29th largest city.

Covid toolkit

There’s now a one-stop shop to learn about vaccination sites and other Covid related information. Click here to learn more.

If you don’t want to get sick and die, there’s some things you can do:

• Get vaccinated

• Get boosted

• Wear a mask

• Avoid crowds

Subscribe if you like, pay if you can

Note to subscribers: An annual or monthly subscription is billed to your debit or credit card as ARKANSAS.SUBSTACK.COM and if you have questions, please email arkansas@substack.com. Thanks for reading and subscribing!

The Headlines

• MEETINGS: A special call meeting of the North Little Rock School Board will meet at 5:30 p.m. tonight at the district’s administration building. It will also include a board workshop. The North Little Rock City Council will meet next Monday night at City Hall. Both meetings will be livestreamed on YouTube and the public is welcome at both. There’s several upcoming meetings for the sales tax extension in Maumelle and for more, keep scrolling.

• EVENTS: Valentine’s Day is next week. Next Saturday to be precise but you should probably order those flowers now. There’s no time like the present. As always Frances Flower Shop is our preferred florist at ArkansasNewsrooom.com HQ, mostly because they deliver most anywhere in Pulaski County. That’s also a non-sponsored recommendation. We just like ‘em. Click the graphic below for more.