Fuel Costs & Agriculture: Diesel prices are still climbing in Arkansas, with Arkansas County hitting $4.99 (week ending Sept. 5) and farmers warning the spike is arriving at the worst possible moment for harvest. Energy & Data Centers: Entergy Arkansas dropped its lawsuit over a newspaper’s publication of details tied to a West Memphis data center agreement, while lawmakers continue grilling utilities and the broader data center push. Rural Funding: The Rural Services Block Grant Program deadline is set for Oct. 16, with up to $100,000 available for community and fire-related projects. Manufacturing Jobs: Taber Extrusions opened an $85M Russellville expansion featuring the largest new direct extrusion press in North America, targeting 70 new jobs for aerospace, defense, and heavy industry. Wildfire Response: A wildfire near Camden’s Highland Industrial Park is 65% contained, with National Guard helicopters and bulldozers supporting crews. USDA & Farm Outlook: USDA forecasts less corn and more soybeans, while broiler sets fell week over week as heat pressures laying efficiency. Meat Processing Expansion: USDA launched a Stand-Up Program to help states start or expand meat inspection programs, aiming to boost local processing capacity. Local Business & Infrastructure: Searcy’s #MySearcy projects are moving forward with construction milestones, and Pioneer Village is getting a new site plan with a possible “residents’ row” street. Industry Leadership: Crafton Tull promoted Daniel Ellis to chief operating officer as the engineering firm reorganizes for growth. Transportation & Logistics: J.B. Hunt expects higher costs to pressure earnings, citing driver-related expenses, rising fuel, and insurance claims.