Good morning, Conway.

After opening on July 17, the Conway Community Center served over 2,000 memberships and averaged nearly 1,000 visitors at its outdoor aquatic area.

It will offer fall activities—such as pickleball and volleyball tournaments—and adjust hours for safety and effective communication as demand grows.

As schools start, many teachers have left Arkansas classrooms, leading to larger classes and fewer resources for students — Arkansas Education Association President April Reisma said low pay and a lack of respect push educators to quit and urged officials to include teachers in classroom decisions.

UCA’s geography department will move back into Burdick Hall gradually over the fall after nearly two years away following a May fire that displaced classes; the hall now has new mechanical systems, fire sprinklers, and accessibility features, and the department plans to fully use the space by January while reimagining its labs and GIS program. This upgrade marks a fresh start for faculty and students as they return to their dedicated space.

At its Aug. 26 meeting, the Conway City Council approved $4,000 from a $20,000 grant to extend the Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Release program for cats and approved reimbursements for a generator project set to start in January 2031—further actions included a clean-up lien, three rezonings, police equipment donations, and a school resource officer agreement. Ward 1 alderman David Grimes announced he will not run for re-election due to health issues—the next meeting is set for Sep. 9.

Voters in Conway will soon decide on three proposed sales tax increases—a 0.25% boost for public safety capital, a 0.125% rise for street and drainage improvements, and a 0.5% increase for bond projects that would raise the city's rate from 1.75% to 2.5%—with votes set on November 18.

On Tuesday, a new State Library Board met and confirmed that local libraries will receive their regular state funding for the first quarter as the board was organized with six new members.

Governor Sanders appointed the new members after replacing the previous board — the members will vote on policies once they are confirmed by the Senate.

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.

Caffeine Addicts Awards

6-8 p.m. — Brick Room Events — Ticket prices vary — Celebrate the best coffee, tea, and energy drinks while enjoying live music and gourmet appetizers.

Tape It Easy Workshop

9 AM – 5 PM — Body Wellness Massage Academy — $225 — Master kinesiology taping techniques in this hands-on training course.