A-State Leadership: Arkansas State University Chancellor Calvin White Jr. has permanently appointed Dr. William McLean as provost and executive vice chancellor, making official the interim role he’s held since July. Healthcare Leadership: SHARP PHO named Katherine “Katie” Prescott as its next CEO after the retirement of Beverly Nix, with Prescott coming from a long run as SHARP general counsel. Politics & Elections: Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders moved up the special election date for Senate District 18 to Dec. 15, with ballot drawing set for Oct. 9. Little Rock Races: Three candidates are running for the open Ward 7 seat, while Ward 6 incumbent Andrea Lewis faces challenger Victoria Macuil. Public Safety: Arkansas AG Tim Griffin announced the arrest of a North Little Rock man accused of Medicaid fraud tied to $245,401 in allegedly improper claims. Road Work: ARDOT plans a Highway 77 closure in West Memphis starting Oct. 7 for a new overpass, with reopening expected in mid-2028. Food Recall: Flowers Foods recalled Nature’s Own Hawaiian Bread in multiple states, including Arkansas, due to undeclared milk. Rural Health Funding: St. Bernards Foundation received $4.8 million in rural health grants to expand physician training and healthier living programs. Weather: Wildfire danger stays high with little rain expected, plus elevated pollen.