Today
in Little Rock
Friday, October 3rd, 2025
Good morning, Little Rock. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 3rd of October.
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Google is constructing its first data center in Arkansas with a $4 billion investment through 2027, marking the largest capital investment in the state. The West Memphis project covers 1,000 acres—designed with office buildings, a substation and clean energy resources while also including workforce training programs. ABC 7
- ➤ ALDI will open in Sherwood on Oct. 22—its grand opening celebration and ribbon cutting are set for Oct. 23. Sherwood officials confirmed the dates through a social media post. FOX 16
CRIME NEWS
- ➤ Attorney General Tim Griffin announced that three noncitizens were arrested for illegally voting in the 2024 elections after federal officials flagged discrepancies in their records — Cecilia Castellanos and Chi Baum were charged with perjury while Zlata Risley faced election law violations. ABC 7
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ The Mosaic Templars Cultural Center in Little Rock is hosting an interactive exhibit on Emmett Till that explains his role in the civil rights movement — the display aims to teach visitors about his historical impact. THV 11
- ➤ Wildwood Park for the Arts announced plans for its upcoming High School Musical production—Bevan Keating and Christina Muñoz outlined the key details about the performance. THV 11
- ➤ Today, the Mosaic Templars Cultural Center in Little Rock is featuring an interactive exhibit on Emmett Till that shows his tragic death and the civil rights movement he sparked. The family-friendly exhibit offers hands-on kiosks & learning points and will run through early January 2026. THV 11
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Construction is underway at Joe T. Robinson High School in west Little Rock as district leaders broke ground yesterday for a new building—adding classrooms, a band facility, and a storm shelter—and the project is expected to take 18 to 21 months to complete. The expansion will support growing enrollment—a key factor—in providing better opportunities for students. FOX 16
FINANCE NEWS
- ➤ Officials from the Arkansas Treasurer’s Office said the Arkansas Brighter Future 529 Plan reached $1.5 billion in assets on Thursday, offering a tax-advantaged way for Arkansans to save for tuition, books, housing, trade or technical school and student loan payments. The plan now holds 54,695 individual accounts—more than half of which belong to local residents. FOX 16
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ The Little Rock School District said that even during the government shutdown its top goal—ensuring every child gets clean, healthy meals—remains unchanged. THV 11
- ➤ The federal government shutdown has entered its second day and is stirring anxiety among residents who rely on SNAP and HUD—community organizations are urging lawmakers to act swiftly to prevent more families from experiencing cuts. Local advocates warn that if the shutdown continues, delays in federal assistance may soon hit those already struggling. ABC 7
- ➤ Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders and the Arkansas Department of Agriculture announced that 3,100 pounds of sweet potatoes were delivered to Marion School District last week (harvested by 30 inmates from Matthews Sweet Potato Farm in Wynne) as part of a Farm-to-School pilot program. The program was created by the Faith-Based Initiatives Office in partnership with the Departments of Corrections and Education (unused produce will be donated to food pantries under the Good Neighbor Act) to bring fresh food to students. FOX 16
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ The first Arkansas Health Survey got 70,000 responses from people in all 75 counties to gather clear data on health and social factors. The survey—covering issues like maternal health and tobacco use—will be shown on AR—COMPASS in 2026 to help state leaders plan better health programs. ABC 7
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ The University of Arkansas is searching for a new head coach after dismissing Sam Pittman. Officials are considering five candidates—including interim coach Bobby Petrino and SMU head coach Rhett Lashlee—to lead the Razorbacks in upcoming games. ABC 7
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Arkansas Rasta Fest and 5K & 10K Run/Walk
9 AM – 6 PM — Julius Breckling Riverfront Park — Registration fees apply — Celebrate culture and fitness at this vibrant festival featuring races and festivities.
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The Rock Orchestra By Candlelight
8:00-9:30 p.m. — Robinson Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience an electrifying performance with iconic rock hits set against a stunning candlelit backdrop.
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2nd Friday Art Night
5-8 p.m. — Rock It! Lab — Free entry — Enjoy complimentary hors d'oeuvres, drinks, live music, and art in an engaging monthly gathering.
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Swap Con® Little Rock
10 AM – 6 PM — Statehouse Convention Center — Free entry — Discover vintage treasures and collectibles at the Biggest BUY-SELL-SWAP®️ Convention in Arkansas.
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Arkansas Times Pig & Swig 2025
6-9 p.m. — River Market Pavilions — Earlybird tickets $30, General Admission $40, VIP $100 — Indulge in delicious pork bites and whiskey samples while enjoying live music at this popular local event.
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