Maumelle's Back to School Bash on July 24
Thessing to retire as Chief of Police for North Little Rock; Sparklight invests more than $16 Million in central Arkansas; Plus headlines and sports
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MEETINGS: The North Little Rock City Council will meet next Monday night at City Hall. That meeting will be livestreamed on the city’s YouTube page and the public is also invited.
EVENTS: Friday is Juneteenth, a federal holiday, and, as a result, the various governmental offices will be closed that day. More importantly, it means trash and recycling will run one-day delayed on Friday, so if your normal pickup is then, it won’t be picked up until Saturday. We promise not to judge you though if you still roll the can to the curb on Thursday night. Just kidding, we totally judge you for that.
Something to read (Part 1): New Republic writer Monica Potts had a recent piece on why she left Arkansas for Utica, New York. Spoiler, TLDR, one reason was the incessant community warfare over trivial local government issues and if any of that sounds familiar, click here to read more.
Something to read (Part 1): Everybody’s favorite sports columnist Scott Faldon has ventured onto the internet for musings and thoughts. Read his most recent Five Thoughts (™ pending) by clicking here. You can also subscribe, if so inclined. I meant to ask him how frequently he planned to publish but I forgot.
Still calling 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.
Maumelle Community Partners host Back to School Bash on July 24
Students, teachers, and families from across the Maumelle area are invited to attend the 2026 Maumelle Back to School Bash on Friday, July 24, 2026, from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Lake Willastein Park.
Hosted through a partnership between the Maumelle Area Chamber of Commerce, City of Maumelle, Maumelle Parks & Recreation, Maumelle Police Department, Maumelle Fire Department and Maumelle Community Partners, the event is designed to help local students and educators prepare for a successful school year while connecting families with valuable community resources.
“The Back to School Bash is one of our favorite community events because it brings together local organizations, businesses, volunteers, and families to ensure students and teachers have the resources they need to start the school year strong,” said Kellie Wall, President & CEO of the Maumelle Area Chamber of Commerce in a release. “This event truly showcases the spirit of collaboration and generosity that makes Maumelle such a special place to live, work, and play.”
The Back to School Bash will feature the distribution of free backpacks and school supplies for students and free classroom supplies for teachers, while supplies last. Students must be present to receive supplies, and teachers are asked to bring a valid school ID.
In addition to school supplies, attendees can enjoy a variety of free activities and attractions, including:
Free haircuts provided by local barbers
Bouncy houses and kids’ activities
Maumelle Library craft station
Temporary tattoo station
Photo booth
Community resource booths
Free new and pre-owned school spirit shirts
Adoptable pets from Maumelle Animal Services
“One of the things that makes Maumelle special is how our community rallies around families,” said Courtney Dunn, Community Engagement Director for the City of Maumelle. “The Back to School Bash is more than a supply giveaway, it’s an opportunity to connect families with resources, celebrate our students, and ensure they start the school year with the tools they need to succeed. We look forward to welcoming hundreds of students, teachers, and community members to Lake Willastein Park on July 24.”
Organizers are currently seeking sponsors, donors, and community partners to help support the event and expand the number of students and teachers served.
For sponsorship opportunities, donations, or additional information, please visit the event donation page www.maumellechamber.com
Thessing to retire as Chief of Police for North Little Rock
North Little Rock Chief of Police Patrick Thessing, above, announced he was going to retire after 31 years of service to the city.
In a retirement letter to Mayor Terry Hartwick, Thessing said his plans were to spend more time with his family and that his last day would be June 30.
In a press release announcing his retirement, the city listed some of Thessing’s accomplishments. They include:
The Real-Time Crime Center
Expanded the use of technology
The Joint Police Academy
“We wish him well in his retirement and so appreciate his service to our city,” Hartwick said.
Thessing was named Chief in January 2021 and served for more than five years in that role.
Thessing started with the department on Sept. 25, 1995 and is a graduate of Little Rock Catholic, go Rockets, and Memphis State.
He started in patrol, rose to homicide detective and became a Lieutenant on April 1, 2013 then Captain on Aug. 16, 2019 and Division Commander of Patrol.
“My Dad told me to never forget the ‘Human Element’ in what you do,” Thessing said. “A strong leader has to be fair and an excellent problem solver to work with all types of people. Titles mean nothing, but humility and striving to always serve others while putting yourself last will carry you far. I leave knowing the agency is strong, and more importantly, that it is filled with amazing people who are committed to their calling. Thank you for allowing me to be part of this team for so many years. It has truly been the honor of my life to serve alongside you.”
A timeline on his replacement has not yet been announced.
Sparklight invests more than $16 Million to enhance connectivity in central Arkansas
Sparklight, a leading broadband provider, has invested more than $16 million over the past three years to expand and enhance its fiber-rich network in Maumelle, Beebe, North Little Rock, Mammoth Spring, Shannon Hills and surrounding areas, helping deliver faster connectivity and greater capacity for local residents, businesses and critical community services.
As part of its continued network evolution, Sparklight has expanded fiber deeper into its service areas to build a future-ready network that supports long-term growth and economic development. With a fiber-rich network spanning more than 31,000 route miles, Sparklight’s investments help create the infrastructure needed to support emerging technologies, increasing digital demands and the evolving connectivity needs of homes and businesses.
Residential customers in Central Arkansas have access to internet speeds as fast as 2 Gig. Sparklight Business also provides connectivity solutions for organizations of all sizes, including fiber-powered internet, voice and managed services for small businesses, along with scalable fiber, Ethernet and high-capacity network solutions with speeds up to 10 Gig and beyond for enterprise, carrier and wholesale customers.
Together, these investments and services help deliver:
Faster speeds for streaming, gaming and video conferencing
Optimal performance across multiple connected devices
Reliable connectivity for remote work, online learning and business operations
Scalable connectivity solutions for businesses of all sizes
“Reliable connectivity is essential for how people work, learn, stream and stay connected every day,” said Kenny Walker, Sparklight Senior Regional Director. “Our investments help ensure families and businesses across our communities have access to the fast, dependable connectivity they need today, while continuing to strengthen network performance and reliability for the future.”
Sparklight’s investments also support the company’s suite of connectivity products and services, including:
Intelligent whole-home Wi-Fi powered by eero Wi-Fi 7 technology
Sparklight Mobile, a no-contract wireless service with 5G nationwide coverage and unlimited talk and text starting at $15/month when bundled with Sparklight home internet
Tech Assist, a U.S.-based support and protection service for connected home devices, smart TVs, gaming systems and more
To learn more about Sparklight’s high-speed internet services, visit www.sparklight.com and business.sparklight.com or follow the company on Facebook, Instagram and X.
Pops on the River to return
The Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum in North Little Rock will be hosting the annual Pops on the River fireworks fundraiser watch party on July 4.
Tickets are $15 per person, and parking passes are $10 per vehicle (to park inside the seawall).
Tickets can be purchased online at https://shorturl.at/10dyU (make an account before selecting the number of tickets) or in person during business hours. The museum is located at 120 Riverfront Park Drive in North Little Rock. There’s limited seating this year to watch the show from the most patriotic place in Arkansas, the deck of the USS Razorback Submarine. We will have hamburgers/hot dogs, chips, and drinks for sale. We will also offer beer and wine through our donation bar. No outside food or beverages will be permitted.
Gates open at 7 p.m, and the fireworks show will begin around 9:30 p.m. The parking lot will open late afternoon.
Please email info@aimmuseum.org or call (501) 371-8320 with questions.
Mosaic Templars Cultural Center to have Juneteenth celebration June 19
Arkansas TV is partnering with Mosaic Templars Cultural Center, which will offer special screenings every hour on Juneteenth from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, June 19, of the Arkansas TV short film “Wilmar June Dinner,” produced as part of the Arkansas TV series “Celebrating Arkansas.” The screenings are part of the Cultural Center’s Juneteenth in da Rock event.
Filmed in Wilmar, “Wilmar June Dinner” follows the story of this small Southeast Arkansas town and its role in holding one of the longest-running Juneteenth celebrations in Arkansas history. June Dinner in Wilmar has been celebrated since the late 1800s, and the documentary short celebrates and explores the history and relationships that draw people back to Wilmar year after year.
The Juneteenth celebration continues Saturday, June 20 when Mosaic Templars Cultural Center hosts its annual Juneteenth in da Rock festival. The festival will feature a full day of live music, food, vendors and family fun. More information about Juneteenth activities is available at Arkansasheritage.com/Juneteenth, and details about the multi-day commemorations will be announced on the Mosaic Templars Cultural Center’s social media channel.
This and other upcoming events can be found at arkansastv.gov/events.
Arkansas Hospitality Association names Kinkade as Chief Marketing Officer
The Arkansas Hospitality Association has announced the promotion of Dylan Kinkade to Chief Marketing Officer.
Since joining the association three years ago, Kinkade has combined his hospitality background with a passion for people and storytelling to help shape a more cohesive and modern communications strategy for the association. His work has helped strengthen the association’s brand presence and broaden its visibility across Arkansas
Before joining AHA, Kinkade served as Marketing Manager for National Solutions, a commercial interior distributor based in Maumelle, where he worked closely with sales teams and partners across the country to support brand growth and market development. Kinkade is a graduate of the University of Central Arkansas, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Communication and Marketing. He resides in Conway with his fiancée, stepdaughter, and their two dogs.
Sports
Upcoming Travs games
At Frisco, six-game road swing, now through 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)
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