River Valley Record covers the people, stories and issues shaping Arkansas’ River Valley. From local news and government to schools, sports, business, public safety and community events, we bring listeners clear, conversational coverage rooted in the towns we serve. Stay connected to what’s happening across Pope, Yell, Johnson and surrounding counties with River Valley Record.
Russellville's newest City Council member talks politics, priorities ... and Whatta-Burger! 🍔
Fresh off his election win, Allan George joins us to talk about jobs, economic development, Flock cameras, data centers and what he'd like to see change in Russellville.
Then we have a little fun with our Russellville Rapid Fire! 🌳🍟 Find out his favorite local spots, biggest traffic headache and which long-gone restaurant he'd bring back.
🎥 Listen to our full conversation and get to know your new Ward 2, Position 1 council member!
22 Oct 2026
October 22 Morning Briefing | Dover walking trail, Ulta is OPEN, other biz updates
River Valley Record | Morning Briefing — Thursday, October 22, 2026
New businesses, a new walking trail, early voting numbers, and one big question: Where in the world is our fall rain?
There’s a lot happening around the River Valley, and we’re catching up on it all in today’s morning briefing!
Here’s what’s on the rundown:
A new walking trail for Dover: The city has been awarded $179,000 to build its first walking trail at City Park. We look at what’s planned and what it will mean for the community.
Business buzz around Russellville: Ulta Beauty has quietly opened its doors ahead of this weekend’s grand opening! We’re also talking about Chick-fil-A’s remodel, the latest on Braum’s, and other businesses making moves around town.
Early voting update: Voters are heading to the polls ahead of the November 3 general election. We’ll take a look at the latest early voting totals and how things are shaping up locally.
Where’s the rain? We’re well into October, but the River Valley is still waiting for some much-needed rainfall. We’ll check the forecast and see whether there’s any relief in sight.
Grab your coffee and spend a few minutes catching up on what’s happening right here at home!
River Valley Record is your independent, digital-first source for local news across Russellville, Pope County, Yell County, and the surrounding Arkansas River Valley.
21 Oct 2026
☀️ Morning Briefing — Wednesday, October 21, 2026
A life sentence in a Johnson County murder trial, big academic gains for Russellville schools, a little school board controversy, and an opportunity for Arkansas Tech students to give back. We’ve got a lot to catch up on this Wednesday morning!
Here’s what’s in today’s briefing:
Coal Hill murder trial: A Johnson County jury found 26-year-old Colton Contant guilty of first-degree murder in the Veterans Day 2025 shooting death of Kenneth Michaels at Coal Hill City Park. Contant received a life sentence plus 15 years for a firearm enhancement. We take a closer look at the testimony, the verdict, and what happened in the courtroom.
Russellville School Board: The district is celebrating significant academic improvements and recognizing seven National Merit Scholars — its largest group since 1993. Plus, the board approved a resolution involving business dealings with companies owned by board member Luke Duffield.
Arkansas Tech gives back: ATU is looking for community projects for its November 14 Green and Gold Give Back. Find out how residents and organizations can get free help with outdoor projects.
Dover City Council: Some exciting news came out of Tuesday night’s meeting. We’ve got a preview, with more coverage coming from River Valley Record.
Deer season is here! Arkansas’s alternative firearms deer season is underway, and muzzleloading season looks a little different these days. We talk about what’s changed and the hunting opportunities ahead.
Wednesday’s weather: A chilly start around 47 degrees, warming all the way to 80. Just another Arkansas fall day!
Local news, from someone who’s actually there.
River Valley Record is an independent, digital-first news platform covering Russellville, Pope County, Yell County, and the surrounding Arkansas River Valley. We’re bringing you local government, courts, breaking news, schools, and community stories that matter.
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