Good morning, Little Rock.

Latifah Hughes and her family continue to mourn Jamaal Lewis, who was fatally struck in a hit-and-run at 1 a.m. on August 14 on South University Ave — an incident that raised safety concerns along a road with several fatal crashes recorded — while the city plans design work for a $25 million Safe Streets for All grant.

James Lusk, 26, was riding his motorcycle on the 500 block of Broadway in downtown Little Rock on Monday when he crashed with another vehicle and died Tuesday—police said no charges have been filed.

Attorney General Tim Griffin announced on Thursday that Operation Obscured Vision resulted in 7 arrests + 23 trafficking victims and over $107,000 seized from raids on 13 illicit massage businesses in cities including Hot Springs and Little Rock, with 2 warrants outstanding for Chinese nationals believed to have fled the country.

A naturalized citizen from China was arrested in Oklahoma City on Monday and now faces felony charges for human trafficking—his arrest followed a state operation that raided Hot Springs massage parlors to rescue exploited women forced into sex work.

Pregnant female employees in public schools now receive up to 12 weeks of paid maternity leave after the law took effect on August 5.

The Arkansas Division of Elementary and Secondary Education covers 100% of the cost & eligible workers with one year of service can use the leave for childbirth, adoption, or fostering.

After a surge in SNAP fraud in July, Arkansas DHS is adding extra measures to secure client benefits—blocking unknown phone numbers and launching a web form for those who need help.

They will also look into using chip cards and sending fraud alerts to stop the scams.

Ashley Foster, a mental health therapist diagnosed with a rare ovarian cancer, received a breakthrough treatment at UAMS using Avutometinib and Defactinib—her therapy reduced symptoms and spurred her recovery.

The FDA fast-tracked and approved the treatment in May, and she is now returning to train childcare providers.

Wingstock Chicken Wing Festival

12:00 – 1:30 p.m. — Simmons Bank Arena — All-you-can-eat access — Dive into a chicken wing extravaganza with local vendors competing for the best wings.

Cliff & Susan at River Bottom Winery

4-10 p.m. — River Bottom Winery — Cost Info — Experience the dynamic sounds of a married international duo, Cliff & Susan, with their piano, fiddle, and guitar.

Springfield Cardinals at Arkansas Travelers

1-4 p.m. — Arkansas Travelers Baseball Club — Ticket prices vary — Catch a thrilling Minor League baseball game as the Springfield Cardinals take on the Arkansas Travelers.

Free Legal Clinic

8:30-11:30 a.m. — North Little Rock Public Library — Free service — Get assistance with common legal issues at this community-focused clinic.

Open House Tour

2-4 p.m. — 3614 Doral Dr, Little Rock, AR — Free entry — Explore a beautifully maintained log home with a pool oasis in Pleasant Valley.

Hot Summer/Cold Supper

6-8:30 p.m. — E. O. Manees House — $175 — Experience a unique summer dinner party with a four-course tasting menu and refreshing wines.

Library Makerspace Event

12-6 p.m. — Ottenheimer Library — Free event — Discover hands-on academic resources aimed at inspiring innovation and collaboration within the UA Little Rock community.

2025 Arkansas State Championship Horse Show

8 AM - 3 PM — Arkansas State Fair — Admission prices vary — Experience the largest open horse show in the U.S. with fun-filled family activities.

Avery Sunshine Concert

8:00-9:30 p.m. — The Hall — $— Experience the soulful blend of R&B, soul, and jazz from Avery Sunshine during Uncles and Aunties Weekend.

Citizen Soldier Concert

9 AM - 1 PM — 721 W 9th St, Little Rock, AR — Tickets available — Enjoy a performance with a purpose as proceeds support mental health in the music community.