Defense Manufacturing: L3Harris won a seven-year DoD/Lockheed Martin framework deal to nearly triple PAC-3 MSE interceptor component production, with upgrades at its Camden, Arkansas facility. Food Safety & Agriculture: CDC/FDA investigators say cyclospora linked to Taylor Farms iceberg lettuce is tied to irrigation or field contact water, as Arkansas experts urge careful local produce handling while cases climb nationwide. Livestock Health: Arkansas cattle producers are bracing for the New World Screw Worm; a state veterinarian update is set for Sept. 1 at the Benton County Cattlemen’s meeting. Consumer Credit Watch: Compacom published guidance warning borrowers to verify “guaranteed approval” and “no credit check” claims in tribal loan ads, where APRs can run extremely high. Public Health & Food Supply: A separate parasite and outbreak wave continues to hit grocery shelves and restaurants, keeping regulators focused on contamination routes. Local Economy: Fort Smith sales tax receipts rose in June, with the Bass Pro Shops opening cited as a likely driver. Education & Workforce: Walton Family Foundation pledged $10M for UA’s Sam M. Walton College of Business expansion, adding major classroom and innovation space. Energy & Grid: Extreme heat is driving emergency power planning across multiple states, with Arkansas included in federal grid protection orders.