Back-to-school safety and accountability: Maumelle High practice took a scary turn when a 2-foot cottonmouth was found inside a player’s helmet; officers had to pour water to coax it out, and the team was reminded to check gear before play. Public safety and civil rights: Arkansas lawmakers and the NAACP are demanding answers after a dashcam-linked traffic stop where an Arkansas State Police trooper allegedly punched an 18-year-old; the trooper remains on active duty and officials say force is reviewed internally. Local growth in Northeast Arkansas: InnovAsian Cuisine broke ground in Jonesboro on a $150M frozen food facility expected to create about 200 jobs, with production starting in 2028. Education and workforce: Arkansas State University opened the state’s first public veterinary school, with classes starting Wednesday for an inaugural cohort of 120 students. Statewide housing pressure: University of Arkansas students say dorm housing struggles are being worsened by unsafe roommate situations, including one case involving alleged threats. Business in Little Rock: Raines was selected to manage the new AC Hotel Downtown Little Rock near the River Market, with plans to activate meeting and lounge space. Food safety: Taylor Farms expanded a jalapeño recall tied to a multistate salmonella outbreak, with products sold at major retailers including Trader Joe’s, Walmart and Target. Lottery: Powerball continues to roll toward a $975M jackpot for Wednesday’s drawing.