Cybersecurity & Critical Infrastructure: The FBI and EPA warned that malicious hackers have remotely tampered with internet-connected controls at water systems, causing loss of pressure and flooding, with Iran suspected after a Minnesota attack hit more than 30 systems. Oil & Gas Permitting: Arkansas Oil and Gas Commission filings show new Union County drilling permits in the Smackover Limestone plus reported dry-hole and workover updates across Nevada and Ouachita counties. Local Development & Power Demand: Pulaski County rejected a proposed one-year pause on a Wrightsville data center project, keeping AVAIO’s expansion on track amid concerns over electricity use, water demand, and rural land impacts. Construction Permits (Little Rock metro): New commercial and residential permits were issued across Little Rock, including a $750,000 Nabholz Construction project at 10810 Executive Center Drive. Manufacturing Jobs (Heber Springs): James & James will invest $9.4 million in a new Heber Springs facility, aiming to create 47 jobs and expand lumber milling and B2B interior-design operations. Agriculture & Ranching: The 808 Ranch named Jared Wareham vice president of ag operations to scale genetics strategy and beef supply-chain growth. Retail & Consumer Costs: Arkansas shoppers are using the back-to-school tax-free weekend to save on qualifying school supplies, clothing, shoes, electronics, and diapers. Education & Community Programs: LifeWise Academy is expanding an opt-in religious study program into Arkansas public schools via released-time classes. Energy & Inflation Pressure: A St. Louis Fed Beige Book update says price increases remain robust, with electricity and food costs driving pressure felt by Arkansas-area contacts.