Good morning, Little Rock.

Forbes surveyed over 160,000 employees and named America's Best-In-State Employers 2025 with Lockheed Martin taking first place, followed by Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield and PepsiCo among the top ranks.

The rankings assess pay, workplace culture and advancement opportunities and include companies like Amazon, Arkansas Children’s Hospital and Washington Regional Medical Center—highlighting trusted local employers.

Duane Nooner, 29, pleaded not guilty in Little Rock District Court on Thursday after he was arrested for the Wednesday killing of teacher Michelle Butler outside Rockefeller Early Childhood Center—police said he admitted to running her over and then shooting her with a gun from her car.

AAA officials said gas prices in Arkansas are lower as summer ends due to lower crude oil prices and a seasonal fall decline.

The statewide average is $2.80 per gallon—Desha County drivers pay $3.20 while Nevada County drivers pay $2.67.

Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders and the AEDC announced today that over $11.9 million in grants will support essential community and infrastructure projects statewide.

The 65 awards—made through programs like the Community Development Block Grant and Rural Community Grant—will fund parks, public facilities, and other needed improvements.

Arkansas officials announced that digital letters from home will soon replace traditional mail for inmates, offering a faster and more secure way for families and friends to send messages—this policy change aims to modernize prison communication.

Last Thursday local faith leaders gave a letter to Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders asking her to stop using nitrogen gas for executions.

They said the law does not match Christian teachings and noted that 23 death row inmates could soon be affected—calling for more mercy.

Construction has begun for the National Center for Opioid Research and Clinical Effectiveness on the Arkansas Children’s Hospital campus in Little Rock, and it is expected to open in 2027.

The center will study opioid misuse in children, pregnant individuals and parents—officials said that $55 million from Attorney General Tim Griffin and $20 million from the hospital will fund programs and training for healthcare providers.

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.

Cliff & Susan Live at WXYZ Bar

7 PM – 1 AM — WXYZ Bar — Entry not specified — Enjoy the unique sounds of a married international duo with piano, fiddle, and guitar.

Here Come The Mummies Concert

6:30-9:05 PM — 721 W 9th St, Little Rock, AR — Ticket prices vary — Experience the ‘Terrifying Funk from Beyond the Grave’ with an eight-piece band of ancient mummies.

Board Game Social Night

5:45-7:45 p.m. — Caverns & Forests Board Game Café — $5 entry — Enjoy conversation and games while practicing your French in a friendly atmosphere.