Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 18th of April.
Good morning, Little Rock.
The University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture said floods in early April caused an estimated $78.9 million in crop damage as 31 percent of planted acres were flooded; replanting costs for corn, rice, and soybeans are expected to be about $42.04 million while federal crop insurance covers only $18.69 million—further surveys will update the damage estimate.
A Bryant Burger King shift lead, Cameron Whitaker, was surprised on Thursday with a $20,000 scholarship to support her pursuit of an associate’s degree and NICU nurse training at Pulaski Technical College.
The award—created in honor of the late Nancy McLamore and provided by the MacLemore family—recognizes her long-time service and academic success.
UA-PTC and Kubota have announced a new training program — offering hands-on experience with Kubota tractors in eight-week sessions over seven to eight months — that will certify students for technical careers.
The program was launched on April 17th.
Arkansas lawmakers passed Senate Bill 601 on Wednesday, repealing the requirement that foreign-trained doctors complete a U.S. residency and sending the bill to Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders for action.
The law will let doctors trained overseas practice if they hold certification from the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates and meet similar residency standards — a move aimed at easing the state’s doctor shortage.
On Wednesday, the Senate voted 16 to 14 to reject HB1662, a bill that would bar payments to lobbyists working for covered foreign entities such as China and Russia.
This was the third vote in which the measure fell short of the 18 votes needed in the 35-member chamber.
On Wednesday, the Arkansas Senate narrowly approved House Bill 1878 by a vote of 18 to 16—sending it to the governor and requiring county boards of election commissioners to hold early voting in every city with more than 15,000 residents.
The bill is designed to secure early voting access at each preferential primary and general election.
On Wednesday, the Senate passed Senate Bill 612 that lets parents sue social media platforms if their child harms themselves after being exposed to self-harm posts online—and the governor later signed the bill, which allows courts to award damages and costs while protecting platforms from third-party content.
UALR extended its winning streak to seven by rallying for a 10—8 win over Western Illinois on Thursday night at Gary Hogan Field.
Coach Chris Curry said the team answered a late rally with quick scoring and a strong finish to secure the victory.
South Carolina transfer forward Nick Pringle said signing with the Arkansas basketball team was an easy decision (made without a visit) because he trusted head coach John Calipari and assistant coach Chuck Martin (and the team staff).
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.
Great North Little Rock Cleanup
Keep North Little Rock Beautiful is hosting a clean-up event on April 26 from 8:30 - 11 am in honor of Earth Day and part of the nationwide Great American Cleanup movement. Sign up to volunteer and then join in the clean-up fun at St. Joseph Farm Stand where there will be food, door prizes, and free trees.
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.
20th Annual Dinner on the Grounds
6:30-9:30 p.m. — Rusty Tractor Vineyards — Support local families — Enjoy southern cuisine and live music in a beautiful vineyard setting.
Patterson Hood & Drive By Truckers Concert
7-10 p.m. — White Water Tavern — Affordable tickets — Experience the energy of live music with Patterson Hood & Drive By Truckers in Little Rock.
Bree Ogden Live Performance
6-8 p.m. — JJ’s Grill Little Rock — All Ages Welcome — Enjoy an evening of live music from Nashville-bound Arkansas native Bree Ogden.
Weekly Improv Comedy Show
8-9:30 p.m. — The Joint Comedy Theater — $15 — Enjoy a night of improv comedy inspired by classics like 'Whose Line Is It Anyway?'.
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