Norris sets reelection bid
Hartwick names Finks as new North Little Rock Chief of Police; Maumelle sets schedule for 4th Fest plus headlines and sports
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MEETINGS: The Maumelle 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: The Fourth of July holiday is this Saturday and in terms of government offices, it will be celebrated on Friday as local, state and federal doors will be closed for business then. It also means some changes to the trash and recycling pickups. In Maumelle, Friday routes will run on Thursday and sanitation workers will have that day off. In North Little Rock, there’s no change in the pickup schedule as Friday will be a work day for the garbage trucks. There’s also plentiful holiday events on Saturday and for more, keep on scrolling.
Norris sets reelection bid
Maumelle Mayor Caleb Norris has announced his campaign for reelection, pledging to continue building a stronger, safer and more connected Maumelle while preserving the city’s character and planning thoughtfully for the future.
Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 3.
Running for office? Let us know by replying to this email or sending a note to jeremyarkansasnews@gmail.com.
Norris, who previously served on the City Council and as City Attorney, will be seeking his third term in the mayor’s office.
In the press release, Norris said his decision to seek another term is rooted in the momentum Maumelle has built over the past several years, the importance of preserving what residents value most, and the opportunities that lie ahead. From public safety and major infrastructure investments to new community gathering spaces and economic development, he said the city is well positioned for its next chapter.
“When I first became mayor seven years ago, my commitment was simple: listen to our residents, make thoughtful decisions with taxpayer dollars and leave Maumelle better than we found it,” Norris said. “Together, we’ve accomplished a great deal, but the most exciting opportunities for our city are still ahead.”
Over the past several years, Maumelle has welcomed new amenities and gathering places that have enhanced the city’s quality of life. From Millwood Station, the city’s newest community park, to the all-inclusive playground and splash pad, new playground equipment at Lake Willastein, expanded trails and new pickleball courts, Norris said each investment has been guided by a simple goal: creating places where connection happens.
“The strongest communities are built on connection,” Norris said. “Every investment we’ve made — from parks and trails to Millwood Station — has been about creating opportunities for neighbors to meet, families to spend time together and our community to grow stronger.”
Norris said some of his administration’s most important accomplishments have happened behind the scenes by modernizing city operations, strengthening financial oversight, improving transparency and equipping employees with better tools to serve residents.
“Not every accomplishment is something you can see,” Norris said. “They aren’t ribbon-cutting projects, but they’re the kind of improvements that build trust, make government more efficient and ensure we’re good stewards of every taxpayer dollar.”
Public safety has remained a cornerstone of Norris’ administration and will continue to be a top priority. The city has continued investing in police officers, firefighters and the facilities needed to keep Maumelle’s neighborhoods safe and support the city’s future.
Earlier this year, Maumelle voters approved six of seven bond proposals after months of public meetings and community input. The projects include a new police and fire training facility, a third fire station, enhancements to the Lake Valencia Boardwalk, a therapy pool and parking improvements at the Center on the Lake and citywide street improvements.
“Passing those bond measures wasn’t about selling people on my ideas,” Norris said. “It was about listening first. We asked residents what they wanted to see in their community and together we developed a plan that reflected those priorities. The strong support for those projects tells me our residents believe in Maumelle’s future, and I’m committed to delivering on that trust.”
Looking ahead, Norris said Maumelle’s next chapter must be guided by thoughtful planning that protects what residents love about the city while creating new opportunities for residents and businesses.
That vision is already taking shape. During Norris’ administration, Maumelle secured one of the largest economic development projects in the city’s history with Tractor Supply Company’s largest distribution center, a more than $175 million investment that celebrated its grand opening in May 2024, creating hundreds of new jobs.
Norris said his vision also includes advancing transformational projects like the Club Manor corridor. Planned improvements will create a more walkable, vibrant destination that brings a downtown feel to Maumelle while connecting residents with local businesses, restaurants and community gathering spaces.
“The next chapter for Maumelle isn’t just about what we build,” Norris said. “It’s about how we grow. When neighbors know one another, families have places to gather and residents have confidence in their local government, that’s when a city becomes a true community. By staying connected, investing in one another and planning thoughtfully for the future, we can make sure Maumelle’s best days are ahead.”
Join the Campaign
Kickoff Maumelle residents are invited to celebrate the campaign kickoff at Caleb Norris’ Petition Party on Wednesday, July 9, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Cheers in Maumelle, 1901 Club Manor Drive.
Enjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvres, visit with friends and neighbors and help Norris take the first official step toward re-election by signing the petition to place his name on the ballot. It’s a fun opportunity to kick off the campaign, show your support and celebrate the future of Maumelle.
Hartwick names Finks as new North Little Rock Chief of Police
North Little Rock Mayor Terry Hartwick is appointing Hayward Finks as the next Chief of Police and will follow Chief Patrick Thessing, who announced his retirement earlier this month.
Finks will be introduced on Monday, July 6, 2026, at 11 a.m. in City Hall in North Little Rock.
Finks is currently the head of security for the North Little Rock School District and is a former assistant chief of police for the city of Little Rock.
He’ll be North Little Rock’s first Black chief of police and has 38 years of law enforcement experience.
“We are honored to have Chief Finks serve as Chief of Police for our city. He is a proven, professional leader with uncompromising devotion to customer service and community safety,” Hartwick said. “I believe he is an exemplary choice as our next police chief.”
Chief Finks has 38 years of service: 26 years as a supervisor with the Little Rock Police Department, nine years as a Captain, and 10 years as an Assistant Chief of Police. During the last four years, Finks has served as the Director of Safety Services in the North Little Rock School District, an integral role in the success of our community.
Finks possesses extensive experience in emergency services management, public safety, community-oriented policing, investigations, personnel affairs, staff development, and asset protection.
“I am elated to be chosen to lead the brave men and women of the North Little Rock Police Department. I look forward to meeting with members of the community and beginning the process of moving the department forward,” Finks said.
Finks has a degree from Bethel College in McKenzie, Tenn.. and has completed numerous educational programs related to law enforcement over his decades of wearing a badge.
The community is invited to attend a formal swearing-in and reception on Thursday, July 23 at 11 a.m., at the North Little Rock Events Center, 120 Main Street.
Maumelle sets schedule for 4th Fest
Click on the flyer below for the complete schedule of events in Maumelle on July 4.
Pops on the River to return July 4
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.
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
Sports
Upcoming Travs games
Six-game roadtrip at Springfield, now 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