Good morning, Little Rock.

A survey by Heartland Forward shows that small business owners across heartland states are beginning to use artificial intelligence in daily operations (including several from Little Rock).

Many report that the new tech saves time and improves finances, though some still have yet to see a need.

A reporter spent the night in Hornibrook Mansion where local legends claim former residents still roam (highlighting the mansion's mysterious history) on Thursday, Oct.

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Central Arkansas will host Halloween events and pumpkin patches later this month, giving families the chance to enjoy seasonal fun and spooky treats (check local listings for specific times and locations).

Arkansas high school seniors can use the new ACCESS portal to apply to public and private colleges; the portal, which auto-populates transcripts and test scores, opened yesterday following Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders’ ACCESS Act (2025) and is supported by the Arkansas Applied Campaign until Dec. 19.

Gov. Andy Beshear met with basketball coach John Calipari at Ron Robinson Theater during the Six Bridges Book Festival on Thursday.

They discussed team prospects and community unity, with Beshear defending his policy decisions (emphasizing fairness).

Healthy Moms, Healthy Babies America announced ($20 million) over five years to boost maternal health in Arkansas and Kentucky after co-founder Olivia Walton revealed the funding onstage at a Heartland Summit in Bentonville.

Arkansas and Little Rock baseball teams will face off in a fall exhibition on Saturday, Oct.

3 at Baum–Walker Stadium in Fayetteville as part of the Diamond Classic. The doubleheader — a pair of 6-inning games — will let multiple pitchers gain starting experience.

Arkansas Razorbacks will travel to Kyle Field Saturday, Oct.

3 at 6 p.m. to face Texas A&M, which is adjusting its offense under Marcel Reed — both teams look to boost their season performance amid current challenges.

Searcy junior offensive lineman Braceson Mitchell received an offer from Arkansas last week after a recent visit to Fayetteville + he also got an offer from Arkansas State with Memphis showing interest.

Kong Klash 16 begins at noon today at Vortex Arcade in Sherwood and runs until 9 p.m. Sunday.

Donkey Kong players will compete in Beginner, Intermediate, and Pro divisions (featuring cash prizes and free weekly strategy classes by founder Daniel Solis) amid a supportive community vibe.

Arkansas baseball coach Dave Van Horn held a press conference on Thursday to detail the Razorbacks fall exhibition and practice schedule, outlining team preparations for the upcoming season.