Good morning, Little Rock.

Food trucks in Arkansas have had slower sales this week because heavy rain and severe weather forced closures—owner Jason Spurlock of Trident closed his truck to conserve fuel, while co-owner Tremell Billings of Utopia Deli halted service.

Billings said his truck will reopen next week if the weather improves.

Data show nearly half of National Weather Service offices have a 20% vacancy rate—with eight offices missing over 35% of staff—raising concerns about timely warnings in areas like Arkansas hit by severe weather.

Experts warn the understaffing may delay critical forecasts during dangerous storms—putting lives at risk—if the gaps are not filled soon.

Attorney General Tim Griffin warned homeowners impacted by the April storms to get more than one repair estimate and check references to avoid scams after Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders declared a state of emergency on April 2.

He clarified that the law bans price gouging by charging more than 10% above pre-disaster costs and violators face fines of $10,000 per incident—this ban will last for 30 days.

The Assembly returned to a busy session after spring break and will meet for one more week before adjourning.

Legislators are working to pass bills on prison funding (for a new 3000 bed facility), social media restrictions for minors, extended Medicaid for postpartum mothers and a voter initiative to ease access.

Officials with Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield announced on today that members affected by April storms will receive help – including counseling, emergency 10-day prescription refills, and support for lost ID cards.

Covered members should call the number on the back of their ID cards or visit an Arkansas Blue Welcome Center for more assistance.

Arkansas’ freshman guard Boogie Fland announced on social media Friday he will enter the 2025 NBA Draft and give up his remaining college eligibility—he thanked his team and fans after averaging over 15 points and 5 assists this season despite injury setbacks.

Little Rock native Jack O'Keefe—a four-time All-American—will be inducted into the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame on April 11 at the Oaklawn Event Center in Hot Springs.

He said he is excited to join a class that includes many Razorback athletes and appreciates his long journey in golf.

Today, a local sports podcast featured Missouri analyst Matt Michaels and host Christina Long as they previewed the Razorbacks vs Tigers series and discussed Arkansas football coach Sam Pittman's comments on management needs + player moves.

The podcast also covered changes to the Razorbacks women's basketball roster and the gymnastics team's advancement in its NCAA regional+ outlining upcoming action in the season.

Bri Ellis hit a three-run home run in the first inning as the 13th-ranked Razorbacks defeated the No. 3 Gators 4-1 on Friday night in Gainesville—extending their winning streak to five games—and moved above .500 in SEC play for the first time.

Cliff & Susan Concert

3-5 p.m. — River Bottom Winery — Free entry — Experience a unique duet blending piano, fiddle, and guitar from this local duo.

Pop Evil Concert

6:00-8:30 p.m. — The Hall — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an electrifying evening with the rock band Pop Evil as they light up the stage.

Ouachita Trail 50 Mile Run

6 a.m. - 7 p.m. — Big Maumelle Pavilion — Registration required — Experience breathtaking scenic views and challenging terrain at Arkansas' iconic ultra marathon event.

Fly the Ford Tri Motor in North Little Rock

9 AM – 5 PM — North Little Rock Municipal Airport — Book your seat — Experience a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to fly in a vintage airliner and perhaps even take the controls.

Jekalyn Carr Concert

7-10 p.m. — 2400 Wright Ave — Tickets required — Experience the powerful vocals and inspiring message of Jekalyn Carr live in concert this Good Friday.

Fly the Historic Ford Tri Motor

7 p.m. — North Little Rock Municipal Airport — Book your ride — Experience a thrilling flight in the vintage Ford Tri Motor airliner.

Marcus Smith Live Comedy Show

8 PM – 12 AM — Loony Bin Comedy Club — Tickets support a cause of your choice — Enjoy a night of laughter while contributing to a charitable cause.

Marcus Smith Comedy Show

10-11 p.m. — Loony Bin Comedy Club — Ticket prices vary — Experience a night of laughs with Marcus Smith while supporting a cause of your choice.

Wild Wines Fundraiser

7-10 p.m. — Little Rock Zoo — Volunteers needed — Indulge in exquisite wine tastings paired with culinary delights and enjoy live music at this beloved annual fundraiser.

Open House for Luxury Living

2-4 p.m. — 117 Calion Court, Little Rock, AR — Free entry — Experience luxury in a stunning 4-bedroom, 4.5-bath home designed for comfort and style.