Good morning, Fayetteville.

Chris Tisdel was named director of the McMillon Innovation Studio at the University of Arkansas today.

He brings a strong background in human centered design and plans to use the studio as a launchpad for future student innovation.

Northwest Arkansas grew strong in the new report as about 7,800 jobs were added and incomes rose over the past year—yet higher home prices and infrastructure needs are putting pressure on local families.

Officials are now updating rules and planning improvements for roads and wastewater systems to help the region cope with its growth.

The English Department and the Program in Rhetoric and Composition announced the 2025 Jessie O’Kelly Freshman Essay Award winners, naming Lilli Timpe as the $500 scholarship recipient for her Composition I paper 'Can Psychedelic Drugs Replace Anti-depressants?,' awarding Mercedes Drummond a $300 scholarship for her essay on organic farming as a solution to the global food crisis, and recognizing Noah Whitlow with an honorable mention for his paper on men's mental health. Essays submitted in Composition I or II during spring and fall 2024 were judged—submissions for the 2026 award will be accepted in early spring.

The UA Power Group successfully tested a hybrid Cessna 337 using a new silicon carbide motor drive on a runway in 2023—this test showed that the smaller, lighter system can replace traditional ones.

This fall the group will open a new lab to further research silicon carbide microchip fabrication and support semiconductor manufacturers.

Kathy Scheibel is retiring after over 40 years of service at the University of Arkansas, starting as a secretary/accountant in 1984 and later advancing to Senior Advisor in Sponsored Programs Administration.

A retirement reception will be held Thursday, November 6 from 3 to 5 p.m. at the new Division of Research & Innovation offices at 2231 W. Martin Luther King Blvd. in Fayetteville.

Leonardo Cerno and Shawn Austin will talk about two rare 18th-century Guaraní manuscripts that show early Indigenous forms of Christianity at Mullins Library from 4:30 to 6 p.m. on Nov.

6, and the University Libraries Special Collections Division hosts the free event (MULN 135) for everyone.

Parents at McNair Middle and Vandergriff Elementary worry a new cell tower built on school grounds may expose children to radiation and limit playground space.

Smith Communications will hold a forum at McNair Middle School on Nov. 5 at 6 p.m.—officials note the tower was approved two years ago under a long-term agreement, but many urge relocating it for safety.

Last week, education scholars and policymakers gathered at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art to celebrate 20 years of the Department of Education Reform—founded in 2005 with help from Walton and Windgate Foundations—and to talk about teacher shortages, achievement gaps and fair schooling. They shared data and ideas to improve K-12 education and discussed what steps to take next.

On Monday night, the Arkansas men’s basketball team won 109-77 over Southern at Walton Arena.

Trevon Brazile scored a career-high 25 points with 11 rebounds + freshman teammates helped build the strong lead throughout the game.

Elijah Sugg played a key role for Prairie Grove in Friday's 52—50 win over Gentry by making a game-changing defensive stop and scoring a late touchdown run.

His strong performance earned him player of the week honors as he finished with 273 yards and two touchdowns on 32 carries.

November AI Meetup

6-8 p.m. — UofA Collaborative — Free entry — Connect with fellow enthusiasts and dive into the world of artificial intelligence.

Ashtyn Barbaree Concert

10 AM – 2 PM — Record Downtown — Free entry — Enjoy a live performance by the talented Fayetteville singer/songwriter Ashtyn Barbaree.

Family-Friendly Event at Northwest Arkansas Mall

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Northwest Arkansas Mall — Tickets required for ages 2 and up — Enjoy an entertaining evening with family friendly activities and a great view from the venue.

In Conversation with Dave Eggers

7-8 p.m. — Fayetteville Public Library — Free entry — Engage in an insightful discussion with bestselling author Dave Eggers, followed by a book signing.

Sassafras Succulent Pumpkin Workshop

6-7:30 p.m. — Sassafras Springs Vineyard and Winery — $40 — Create a stunning succulent pumpkin while enjoying wine and snacks in an immersive workshop.

ARKAST Podcast Festival

10 a.m.-8 p.m. — Mount Sequoya Center — General Admission — Celebrate podcasting achievements and learn from top creators at this annual festival.

Fayetteville Family Event

2-4 p.m. — Northwest Arkansas Mall — General Admission 40% off — Enjoy a family-friendly experience with discounted admission options and comfortable seating.

Missouri Tigers vs. Arkansas Razorbacks Football

1-4 p.m. — Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium — An exciting SEC showdown between two fierce rivals.

Cirque Italia: Water Circus

1:30-3:00 p.m. — Pinnacle Hills Promenade — Tickets start at $74 — Experience a mesmerizing performance under the water-themed circus tent.