Good morning, Conway.

Conway City Council approved rezoning of 959 Farris Road on Aug 26 — a move that improves access — for Braum's new location scheduled to break ground this fall, marking the first Braum's store in Central Arkansas.

UCA freshman enrollment has exceeded 2,100 for the second year, and the university is adding housing by partnering with local apartment complexes—planning more on-campus homes to support a student body that will exceed 10,000 next term.

The school also uses the UCA Commitment program to help students with tuition fees.

University of Arkansas alumna Kathleen Riggs donated $25,000 to the Land of Opportunity Scholarship Endowment in memory of her parents—this gift will help students overcome financial barriers to higher education across Arkansas.

Professor Mark Mullenbach became the new chair of the government, public administration and international studies department at UCA after 24 years of teaching when the faculty chose him as the only internal candidate following Dr. Clay Arnold's retirement announcement last October—he said he is ready to balance his leadership role with his teaching, research and administrative duties. He has previously led key roles such as chairing the college curriculum committee and directing the International Studies program.

Arkansas received a $1 billion award from the NTIA to bring high-speed internet to rural areas through the BEAD program.

The plan will connect 79,000 households and businesses—public comments on the proposal are accepted until Friday before construction begins next year if approved.

On May 28, a Conway Firefighters Facebook group claimed the Conway Fire Department was understaffed and underpaid, with Fire Chief Mike Winter saying the department had fewer firefighters per truck than the NFPA recommends—forcing extra trucks to run emergency calls.

City officials plan to propose a public safety tax increase in November to boost funding for firefighter pay and necessary equipment.

Arkansas Coding Academy Fall Open House

3-5 p.m. — Arkansas Coding Academy — Free entry — Discover tech education options and connect with the community while enjoying snacks.

FREE Concert in the Park

7:15-8:15 p.m. — Laurel Park — Free entry — Enjoy light classics under the stars with food trucks and community vibes.