Food Safety & Home Preservation: Arkansas extension experts urged home canners to use research-based guidelines, noting “canning” covers jams, jellies, and pickling, and stressing safe methods for fresh produce. Outdoor Access & Fisheries: The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission approved more than $5.5 million in boating and fishing access improvements funded through Arkansas Marine Fuel Tax dollars, including contractor-led and partner-agency projects. Agriculture & Weather Impacts: Persistent rain and wind are forcing Arkansas rice farmers to adjust fertilization and herbicide plans, shrinking the “dry ground before flood” window for nitrogen and making weed control harder. State Investment in Food Innovation: The Arkansas Legislative Council approved $5 million for the University of Arkansas Department of Food Science’s Center of Excellence for Food Science and Innovation, building on earlier federal funding to expand labs and food research. Workforce & Training: The Arkansas Trucking Association awarded two $7,500 scholarships to students pursuing medium/heavy duty truck technology, backing the pipeline of skilled technicians for the supply chain. Nursing Pipeline Expansion: The Arkansas Health Care Association School of Nursing opened a new Fort Smith location to train medication assistants toward LPN certification, adding a flexible career pathway to address workforce needs. Rail & Logistics Growth: COIM USA selected the TexAmericas Center rail-served industrial park for a $50 million manufacturing expansion, aiming to boost mid-South distribution capacity.