Good morning, Little Rock.

Marcus McDonald, a longtime KATV Channel 7 photographer known for capturing local moments, died Thursday at 69 after battling small cell lung cancer.

He mentored many journalists & left an enduring impact on the community.

Simmons Bank will close six branches in Arkansas, including one in North Little Rock, on Dec.

4 as part of a strategy shift to match changing customer needs. The move will impact about 100 associates, with most set to be reassigned within the bank.

The Museum of Discovery announced Friday it replaced its executive director — exhibits director Josh Annett is now leading the museum into its centennial celebrations while planning upgrades to interactive exhibits including the Sensory Cove.

In 1919, nearly 600 federal troops restored order in Elaine after Black tenant farmers sought fair cotton prices from white landowners; more than 100 Black and six white citizens died & soldiers' tents still stand by the town water tower.

Little Rock School District released recommendations that may close four elementary campuses and two middle schools in the 2027 to 2028 school year to address a $4 to $7 million budget gap, and will host public events in September for community feedback before the board votes on a final plan.

Channel 7 dug into historic weather records and found 1980 proved one of the hottest summers while Little Rock has seen nearly 20 triple-digit days so far in 2026 (with 114 degrees reported in 2011) as meteorologists compare earlier manual forecasts with today’s digital data.

The Arkansas Department of Agriculture warned residents statewide to avoid outdoor burning (including campfires and trash burning) amid rising wildfire risks fueled by persistent drought.

The alert noted that 65 counties have active burn bans and urged proper fire safety to prevent uncontrolled fires.

Over the past week, the Arkansas Department of Health inspected several restaurants in Pulaski County — issues such as moldy strawberries, unsanitary restrooms, and improperly stored food were promptly addressed on site.

Arkansans will see Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield join Cambia Health Solutions in a new agreement effective Oct.

1 — the partnership will share best practices and modern technology while keeping current coverage unchanged. The plan will simplify access to care and boost local healthcare innovation.

The WholeHogSports Daily Podcast featured a preview of the Razorbacks’ season opener against the North Alabama Lions, as Matt Jones and Ethan Westerman outlined key match details (including their predictions) for the upcoming game.