Friday, May 16th, 2025

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Good morning, Little Rock. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 16th of May.
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Dillard’s reported its first quarter results on Thursday with a net income of $163.8 million—a drop from earlier earnings that still beat forecasts. The report shows the retailer’s earnings were lower than in prior periods while exceeding market expectations. Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
CRIME NEWS
- ➤ A 26-year-old Little Rock woman was sentenced to 25 years in prison for shooting an acquaintance — authorities said the act was an attempt to kill him. Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Following a dedication speech by Don R. Roberts Elementary School Principal Steven Helmick on Thursday, the school board unanimously voted to rename the media center after late educator Misti Watson Sims (who died on Nov. 27th) to honor her contributions. Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
- ➤ Arkansas Virtual Academy is planning to add hundreds more students this fall after the state's Charter Authorizing Panel recommended increasing the enrollment cap by 1,500 on Thursday. Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ National Police Week kicked off May 12 when a Little Rock police officer and a Jefferson County deputy explained that serving the community means protecting people, building trust, and being a role model—policing is both challenging and rewarding. The officers spoke about upholding service and justice in every call and encounter. ABC 7
- ➤ Arkansas law enforcement today began a statewide seatbelt crackdown—part of the annual Click It Or Ticket campaign—to remind drivers to buckle up before getting on the road. THV 11
- ➤ Pulaski County Judge Barry Hyde announced his re-election campaign on Thursday as he seeks a fourth term and highlighted his record for fixing roads, improving public safety and aiding the homeless. He pointed to the recent start of construction at Providence Park—set to provide permanent housing for up to 400 chronically homeless residents. Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ UAMS received a $100,000 grant from the Taylor Foundation to support its Alzheimer’s research, which will help develop drug candidates and target inflammation to prevent the disease. The grant continues a legacy of support by the Taylors (Charles and Joan) who helped establish funding for these studies. ABC 7
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Little Rock Christian junior and consensus 4-star prospect JaShawn “JJ” Andrews has committed to Arkansas men’s basketball at a school ceremony today. He chose the Razorbacks over Missouri and LSU—making him Razorback coach John Calipari’s first commitment for the 2026 class. Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
- ➤ Arkansas and Tennessee start their series opener tonight at 7 p.m. as the teams vie for postseason seeding—Arkansas will rely on ace Zach Root while Tennessee holds off its All-America starter until tomorrow. Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
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2025 Arkansas Rural Development Conference
8:00 AM – 1:30 PM — Robinson Center — Registration fees apply — Explore resources and insights for rural community development from industry leaders.
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Arkansas Times Tacos & Tequila 2025
6-9 p.m. — Argenta Plaza — $45+ — Taste amazing tacos and tequila while voting for the Golden Taco Trophy.
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Ian Munsick Concert
6-9 p.m. — First Security Amphitheater — Ticket prices vary — Experience the soulful sounds of Ian Munsick on his Horses Are Faster tour.
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The Arkansas Acton Children's Business Fair
5-10 p.m. — 120 Riverfront Park Dr, North Little Rock, AR — Free entry — Experience a vibrant marketplace of young entrepreneurs aged 6-18 showcasing their creativity and business skills.
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Little Rock Grappling & BJJ Championship
8 AM – 5 PM — Barton Coliseum — Registration required — Compete in the exciting no-gi and gi divisions of the NAGA championships.
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Beatles Vs. Stones Tribute Show
6:30-8 p.m. — Robinson Center — Tickets required — Experience the legendary rivalry between the Beatles and the Rolling Stones in a night of tribute performances.
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Bree Ogden Live at JJ’s Grill
6-8 p.m. — JJ’s Grill Little Rock — Family-friendly event — Enjoy the soulful tunes of Nashville-bound Arkansas native, Bree Ogden.
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The Big (Trail) Run
11:30 p.m. — Western Hills Park — Registration fees apply — Celebrate Global Running Day with a fun trail run across one of the best running surfaces.
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Electric Avenue - The 80's MTV Experience
8:00 – 9:30 PM — The Hall — $52/ea — Get ready to relive the vibrant 80's MTV era with a spectacular concert experience.
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Lil Poppa Live Concert
8:00 p.m. — Little Rock Hall — Affordable tickets available — Experience the electrifying performance of Lil Poppa in an unforgettable live event.
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