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UAMS launches Arkansas' first nurse-midwifery program

The program aims to improve maternal care and ease doctor shortages.

News

The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences will soon train nurses to specialize in midwifery with the first program of its kind in the state.Why it matters: Expanding midwifery can help fill a health care gap in Arkansas amid a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="doctor shortage" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2025/03/12/nwa-gain-residency-slots-doctors-specialty" data-vars-content-id="bdf7cc93-0d36-48ad-a2b5-af97c62d3350" data-vars-headline="UAMS launches Arkansas&#x27; first nurse-midwifery program" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2025/03/12/nwa-gain-residency-slots-doctors-specialty" target="_self">doctor shortage</a> and some of the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="poorest maternal health outcomes" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2026/03/31/heartland-forward-targets-maternal-mortality-but-arkansas-lags" data-vars-content-id="bdf7cc93-0d36-48ad-a2b5-af97c62d3350" data-vars-headline="UAMS launches Arkansas&#x27; first nurse-midwifery program" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2026/03/31/heartland-forward-targets-maternal-mortality-but-arkansas-lags" target="_self">poorest maternal health outcomes</a> in the country.

Arkansas casinos took hit on sportsbook switch

DraftKings and FanDuel went live in Arkansas on March 20, so only 11 days of the month were impacted by the change.

Two Arkansas casinos that recently partnered with national sportsbook brands posted a combined mobile sports betting loss of more than $10 million in March, even as betting volume surged, the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette first <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="reported" data-vars-click-url="https://www.arkansasonline.com/news/2026/apr/27/southland-oaklawn-post-march-losses-in-mobile/" data-vars-content-id="2145edab-e274-4b2a-ae79-d6657ad8b22c" data-vars-headline="Arkansas casinos took hit on sportsbook switch" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.arkansasonline.com/news/2026/apr/27/southland-oaklawn-post-march-losses-in-mobile/" target="_blank">reported</a>.Why it matters: The results show how a splashy sportsbook launch can drive customer activity while still producing short-term losses.

Report shows health care gaps for Hispanic Arkansans

No state has eliminated gaps in health care access, quality or outcomes between racial and ethnic groups.

Hispanic residents in Arkansas have the worst health care quality in the state and nearly the worst access to health care in the country, according to a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="new Commonwealth Fund report" data-vars-click-url="https://interactives.commonwealthfund.org/2026/disparities-report-state-profiles/Arkansas.pdf" data-vars-content-id="3e0757be-0e67-4fe0-8cd1-bdf6b7620c1d" data-vars-headline="Report shows health care gaps for Hispanic Arkansans" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://interactives.commonwealthfund.org/2026/disparities-report-state-profiles/Arkansas.pdf" target="_blank">new Commonwealth Fund report</a>.The big picture: No state has eliminated gaps in health care access, quality or outcomes between racial and ethnic groups — and researchers warn recent federal policy shifts are likely to widen them.

Arkansas farmers squeezed by costs, lower prices

Input costs have climbed roughly 40% to 70% in the "last couple of years," while the prices farmers receive for their crops have moved in the opposite direction.

The Iran war has led to a sharp increase in fuel and fertilizer <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="prices this spring" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/06/iran-war-food-inflation-oil" data-vars-content-id="92ac0427-67a3-49d2-9224-76c363e5c743" data-vars-headline="Arkansas farmers squeezed by costs, lower prices" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/06/iran-war-food-inflation-oil" target="_self">prices this spring</a>, worsening an already difficult farm economy in Arkansas, which <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="led the U.S. in ag bankruptcies" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2026/04/09/charted-arkansas-farm-busts" data-vars-content-id="92ac0427-67a3-49d2-9224-76c363e5c743" data-vars-headline="Arkansas farmers squeezed by costs, lower prices" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2026/04/09/charted-arkansas-farm-busts" target="_self">led the U.S. in ag bankruptcies</a> last year.Why it matters: Agriculture is a cornerstone of the state&#x27;s economy, contributing <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="$25.6 billion" data-vars-click-url="https://bpb-us-e1.wpmucdn.com/wordpressua.uark.edu/dist/3/599/files/2025/09/1017_Contrib_Agri_sector_Ark_Econ_2023.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com" data-vars-content-id="92ac0427-67a3-49d2-9224-76c363e5c743" data-vars-headline="Arkansas farmers squeezed by costs, lower prices" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://bpb-us-e1.wpmucdn.com/wordpressua.uark.edu/dist/3/599/files/2025/09/1017_Contrib_Agri_sector_Ark_Econ_2023.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank">$25.6 billion</a> in 2023. As the No. 1 grower of rice and the third-largest producer of poultry, stress on Arkansas farms can ripple into the national food supply.

What we're sipping: Chūō Izakaya in Rogers

Cocktails, wine, beer and sake plus small plates at a spacious bar with a clean, minimalist aesthetic.

Food and Drink

Attention sake enthusiasts: Rogers has a new Japanese-inspired bar.🍶 State of play: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Chūō Izakaya" data-vars-click-url="https://chuonwa.com/" data-vars-content-id="6cbd9fe0-4a6b-410d-bb62-aa20dbd96a1a" data-vars-headline="What we&#x27;re sipping: Chūō Izakaya in Rogers" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://chuonwa.com/" target="_blank">Chūō Izakaya</a> serves cocktails, wine, beer and sake plus small plates at a space beneath the apartments at the Pinnacle Heights development. It&#x27;s a spacious bar with a clean, minimalist aesthetic.

Monday Munchies: New Orleans cuisine in Bentonville

Try some New Orleans classics at Table Orleans.

I nearly jerked my car into the parking lot when I saw the new &quot;Table Orleans&quot; sign on Walton Boulevard because, in case you haven&#x27;t noticed, Benton County is sorely lacking in New Orleans fare.🤤 Why it matters: Having to hunt for New Orleans cuisine is tragic because it&#x27;s some of the most flavorful and unique menus specific to a region and a culture in the United States. And it hails from the state directly south of us — so close but so far away.

Northwest Arkansas commercial real estate remains steady

The vacancy rate dropped from 7.2% to 6.3% in the second half of 2025.

Northwest Arkansas&#x27; commercial real estate vacancy rate dropped slightly from 7.2% to 6.3% in the second half of 2025, according to the biannual Arvest Skyline Report released Tuesday.Why it matters: Commercial vacancy rates are an indicator of the area&#x27;s economic vitality. Low rates often signal strong demand but can drive up rents and limit space for businesses.<ul><li>Generally, rates between 5% and 10% are considered healthy, Skyline authors note in the report.</li></ul>

Report: Northwest Arkansas' residential still resilient

Nationally, home sales hovered near a 30-year low in 2025 as high mortgage rates cooled demand, a trend Northwest Arkansas largely bucked.

Higher prices and mortgage rates didn&#x27;t stop more than 5,100 homes from selling in Northwest Arkansas during the second half of 2025, according to the Arvest Skyline Report released Tuesday.Why it matters: Real estate demand — <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="commercial" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2026/02/12/northwest-arkansas-office-vacancy-may-be-tightest-in-us" data-vars-content-id="a74ce0d2-a2da-4365-b0a0-c34a8632c130" data-vars-headline="Report: Northwest Arkansas&#x27; residential still resilient" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2026/02/12/northwest-arkansas-office-vacancy-may-be-tightest-in-us" target="_self">commercial</a> and residential — is an indicator of an area&#x27;s economy, but expensive housing and rents <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="shape who can afford" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2025/09/23/unity-key-as-northwest-arkansas-cities-face-growth-strain" data-vars-content-id="a74ce0d2-a2da-4365-b0a0-c34a8632c130" data-vars-headline="Report: Northwest Arkansas&#x27; residential still resilient" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2025/09/23/unity-key-as-northwest-arkansas-cities-face-growth-strain" target="_self">shape who can afford</a> to live in NWA.

Arkansas teacher retention rates plateau

Slightly higher teacher turnover might be the new normal.

Education

Arkansas&#x27; teacher retention rate for this school year has not budged from last year, remaining below pre-pandemic levels, according to a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="new report" data-vars-click-url="https://oep.uark.edu/arkansas-teacher-retention-2025-26-a-new-normal/?utm_source=newsletter&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=newsletter_axioslocal_nw_arkansas&amp;stream=top" data-vars-content-id="fcd34d25-1754-452e-b247-f9ffe9ee39ee" data-vars-headline="Arkansas teacher retention rates plateau" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://oep.uark.edu/arkansas-teacher-retention-2025-26-a-new-normal/?utm_source=newsletter&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=newsletter_axioslocal_nw_arkansas&amp;stream=top" target="_blank">new report</a> from the University of Arkansas Office for Education Policy.Why it matters: Slightly higher teacher turnover might be the &quot;new normal,&quot; according to the report.

University of Arkansas landmark set to reopen

The Fine Arts Center opened in 1951, uniting art, architecture, music and theater under one roof.

The University of Arkansas School of Art will reopen its Fine Arts Center on Thursday after a $38 million restoration of the midcentury building designed by Fayetteville native <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Edward Durell Stone" data-vars-click-url="https://www.edwarddurellstone.org/" data-vars-content-id="0062fb03-3d78-4307-bd5b-a74572d341ff" data-vars-headline="University of Arkansas landmark set to reopen" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.edwarddurellstone.org/" target="_blank">Edward Durell Stone</a>.Why it matters: The project preserves one of the campus&#x27;s defining buildings and reinforces the university&#x27;s growth as a regional and national arts school.

Crystal Bridges Museum expansion set for June opening

This next chapter further positions it not just as a place to experience art, but as a year-round community space.

Local Brief

Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art will reveal its expanded campus on June 6, marking the most significant addition since the Bentonville landmark debuted in 2011.Why it matters: Founded by Walmart heir Alice Walton, the museum is a cultural anchor for Northwest Arkansas and a major tourism draw. This next chapter further positions it not just as a place to experience art, but as a year-round community space.

Plan your spring: Paint, pics and printing

Mark your calendars for these  arts and culture events happening across Northwest Arkansas this spring and early summer

Mark your calendars for these arts and culture events happening across Northwest Arkansas this spring and early summer:

Arkansas lawmakers advance income tax cut

Arkansas' general revenue would drop by $191.8 million in fiscal year 2027 and $144.8 million in fiscal 2028.

The Arkansas Senate and House of Representatives on Tuesday quickly OK&#x27;d <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="identical bills" data-vars-click-url="https://www.arkleg.state.ar.us/Bills/Detail?id=SB1&amp;chamber=Senate&amp;ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2026S1" data-vars-content-id="4d306157-4e80-46d0-9d27-56bb46aff397" data-vars-headline="Arkansas lawmakers advance income tax cut" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.arkleg.state.ar.us/Bills/Detail?id=SB1&amp;chamber=Senate&amp;ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2026S1" target="_blank">identical bills</a> that would trim income tax rates for individuals and corporations by 0.2%.Why it matters: About 1.1 million taxpayers and 7,800 corporations would get a rate cut, the state Department of Finance and Administration <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="estimates" data-vars-click-url="https://www.arkleg.state.ar.us/Home/FTPDocument?path=%2FAssembly%2F2025%2F2026S1%2FFiscal+Impacts%2FSB1-DFA1.pdf" data-vars-content-id="4d306157-4e80-46d0-9d27-56bb46aff397" data-vars-headline="Arkansas lawmakers advance income tax cut" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.arkleg.state.ar.us/Home/FTPDocument?path=%2FAssembly%2F2025%2F2026S1%2FFiscal+Impacts%2FSB1-DFA1.pdf" target="_blank">estimates</a>.

The Agenda: Streets, shelter and appeal

The Fayetteville City Council meets at 5:30pm.

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Fayetteville City Council" data-vars-click-url="https://fayettevillear.portal.civicclerk.com/event/1637/overview" data-vars-content-id="9afbabd8-3919-41fe-9512-707c225a28af" data-vars-headline="The Agenda: Streets, shelter and appeal" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://fayettevillear.portal.civicclerk.com/event/1637/overview" target="_blank">Fayetteville City Council</a> plans to vote on:🚶A $443,000 design amendment for the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="South School Avenue project" data-vars-click-url="https://www.fayetteville-ar.gov/4484/S-School-Avenue-Improvements" data-vars-content-id="9afbabd8-3919-41fe-9512-707c225a28af" data-vars-headline="The Agenda: Streets, shelter and appeal" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.fayetteville-ar.gov/4484/S-School-Avenue-Improvements" target="_blank">South School Avenue project</a> between MLK Jr. Boulevard and 15th Street. The work includes street, traffic signal, water utility, storm sewer, land acquisition and public engagement work tied to the city&#x27;s $25 million federal Safe Streets grant.

Monday Munchies: Desi Fusion in Springdale

The menu is a blend of Indian and Mediterranean cuisine.

I never would have put falafel and Indian curry together on the dinner table, but <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Desi Fusion" data-vars-click-url="https://desifusion.toast.site/" data-vars-content-id="a6229650-c839-44f3-bd5d-deed66738331" data-vars-headline="Monday Munchies: Desi Fusion in Springdale" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://desifusion.toast.site/" target="_blank">Desi Fusion</a> is here to do it for me.🇮🇳 State of play: The Springdale restaurant is serving Indian and Mediterranean fusion, but you&#x27;ll find more Indian staples than Mediterranean on the menu.

The Agenda: Police training, grants for history and trails

Here's what your city councils plan to decide on at tonight's meetings.

Here&#x27;s what your city councils plan to decide on at tonight&#x27;s meetings.<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Bentonville" data-vars-click-url="https://bentonvillear.portal.civicclerk.com/event/2096/files/agenda/8784" data-vars-content-id="8d5c4d4c-5064-48c6-94f8-8d8ddf3d0f38" data-vars-headline="The Agenda: Police training, grants for history and trails" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://bentonvillear.portal.civicclerk.com/event/2096/files/agenda/8784" target="_blank">Bentonville</a> will vote on:🚔 Buying the approximately 1 acre of land and 6,500-square-foot building at 910 SE 14th St. for $2.5 million for police training.

What to know about the ongoing fiscal session

Arkansas lawmakers have been meeting to decide all things state budget.

Arkansas lawmakers have been <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="meeting in Little Rock" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2026/04/07/arkansas-legislature-decide-state-budget?utm_source=newsletter&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=newsletter_axioslocal_nw_arkansas&amp;stream=top" data-vars-content-id="225d8780-e44c-42a2-ac9a-b37d0025c2fd" data-vars-headline="What to know about the ongoing fiscal session" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2026/04/07/arkansas-legislature-decide-state-budget?utm_source=newsletter&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=newsletter_axioslocal_nw_arkansas&amp;stream=top" target="_self">meeting in Little Rock</a> the past few weeks to decide all things state budget, and Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders has signed <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="dozens of bills" data-vars-click-url="https://governor.arkansas.gov/news_post/bills-signed-sb6-sb9-sb11-sb12-sb17-sb18-sb34-sb35-sb37-sb38-sb57-hb1012-hb1027-hb1028-hb1038-hb1040-hb1043-hb1046-hb1056-hb1059-hb1061-hb1063-hb1074-hb1079-sb25-sb27-sb28/" data-vars-content-id="225d8780-e44c-42a2-ac9a-b37d0025c2fd" data-vars-headline="What to know about the ongoing fiscal session" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://governor.arkansas.gov/news_post/bills-signed-sb6-sb9-sb11-sb12-sb17-sb18-sb34-sb35-sb37-sb38-sb57-hb1012-hb1027-hb1028-hb1038-hb1040-hb1043-hb1046-hb1056-hb1059-hb1061-hb1063-hb1074-hb1079-sb25-sb27-sb28/" target="_blank">dozens of bills</a> to fund state agencies.Here&#x27;s what to know ahead of the last expected few days of the fiscal session.

Gov. Sanders on Iran, Tucker Carlson and GOP

Sanders frequently appears on Fox News shows.

Appearing on <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="CNBC&#x27;s Squawk Box" data-vars-click-url="https://www.cnbc.com/video/2026/04/23/arkansas-gov-sarah-huckabee-sanders-on-state-of-the-economy-iran-war-latest.html" data-vars-content-id="3542b4e8-4ad3-4809-b3bc-1610c4c53b01" data-vars-headline="Gov. Sanders on Iran, Tucker Carlson and GOP" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.cnbc.com/video/2026/04/23/arkansas-gov-sarah-huckabee-sanders-on-state-of-the-economy-iran-war-latest.html" target="_blank">CNBC&#x27;s Squawk Box</a> Thursday morning, Republican Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders was asked to weigh in on the midterm elections and President Trump&#x27;s approach to Iran.The big picture: Sanders frequently appears on Fox News shows (<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="&quot;Jesse Watters Primetime&quot;" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2026/03/18/gov-sanders-touts-save-act-funding-dhs" data-vars-content-id="3542b4e8-4ad3-4809-b3bc-1610c4c53b01" data-vars-headline="Gov. Sanders on Iran, Tucker Carlson and GOP" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2026/03/18/gov-sanders-touts-save-act-funding-dhs" target="_self">&quot;Jesse Watters Primetime&quot;</a>, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="&quot;Fox &amp; Friends&quot;" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2026/02/20/arkansas-gov-sanders-knocks-dems-on-fox-news" data-vars-content-id="3542b4e8-4ad3-4809-b3bc-1610c4c53b01" data-vars-headline="Gov. Sanders on Iran, Tucker Carlson and GOP" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2026/02/20/arkansas-gov-sanders-knocks-dems-on-fox-news" target="_self">&quot;Fox &amp; Friends&quot;</a>) and in March was the first guest on a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="new Politico" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2026/03/10/gov-sanders-doubles-down-on-trump-sidesteps-2028-talk" data-vars-content-id="3542b4e8-4ad3-4809-b3bc-1610c4c53b01" data-vars-headline="Gov. Sanders on Iran, Tucker Carlson and GOP" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2026/03/10/gov-sanders-doubles-down-on-trump-sidesteps-2028-talk" target="_self">new Politico</a> show, &quot;<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="On the Road With Jonathan Martin" data-vars-click-url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H5cYHPw-ZVc" data-vars-content-id="3542b4e8-4ad3-4809-b3bc-1610c4c53b01" data-vars-headline="Gov. Sanders on Iran, Tucker Carlson and GOP" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H5cYHPw-ZVc" target="_blank">On the Road With Jonathan Martin</a>.&quot;

Crystal Bridges outsources hospitality staff

The change affects organizations under Alice Walton's Art and Wellness Enterprises.

Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art will outsource its food and beverage services to national company Wolfgang Puck Catering, spokesperson Emma Claybrook confirmed to Axios.State of play: The change affects 73 employees at the museum and other organizations under Alice Walton&#x27;s Art and Wellness Enterprises. All employees will be able to apply for positions with Wolfgang Puck Catering.

New health survey data goes live

The dashboard has data down to census tracts.

The University of Arkansas on Tuesday launched an <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="online dashboard" data-vars-click-url="https://uaheal.uark.edu/ar-compass-explorer-dashboard/" data-vars-content-id="0974139e-f22b-4609-9c1c-cc0041cff521" data-vars-headline="New health survey data goes live" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://uaheal.uark.edu/ar-compass-explorer-dashboard/" target="_blank">online dashboard</a> where the public can see detailed health-related data for the whole state.Why it matters: Arkansas struggles with poor health outcomes, and the data can help lawmakers make informed policy decisions to improve Arkansans&#x27; health, Arkansas Health Survey lead researcher Michael Niño told Axios in February during an event to preview the survey.

Your weekend plans: Film fest, Artosphere, free kid-friendly events

Things to Do

Enjoy the first weekend of May.🎨 <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Artosphere" data-vars-click-url="https://waltonartscenter.org/artosphere/" data-vars-content-id="ec514ce3-3b62-457d-a022-665ce67b2188" data-vars-headline="Your weekend plans: Film fest, Artosphere, free kid-friendly events" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://waltonartscenter.org/artosphere/" target="_blank">Artosphere</a>, a series of art and nature events hosted by Walton Arts Center at various venues, kicks off today and runs through May 31.

NWA's first burger week set for May 3-9

Participating restaurants across Fayetteville, Springdale, Rogers, Bentonville, Siloam Springs will offer a designated Burger Week burger during the event.

Northwest Arkansas is <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="bringing the beef" data-vars-click-url="https://www.google.com/search?q=where%27s+the+beef+commercial&amp;rlz=1C5GCCM_en&amp;oq=where%27s+the+beef+&amp;gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUqBwgBEAAYgAQyBwgAEAAYjwIyBwgBEAAYgAQyBwgCEC4YgAQyBwgDEAAYgAQyBwgEEAAYgAQyBwgFEAAYgAQyBwgGEAAYgAQyBwgHEAAYgAQyBwgIEAAYgAQyBwgJEC4YgATSAQg2NzkyajBqN6gCALACAA&amp;sourceid=chrome&amp;ie=UTF-8#fpstate=ive&amp;vld=cid:231ba2a4,vid:1FZNYXKHwNw,st:0" data-vars-content-id="5d82f3ee-0777-48da-af04-1c6a940ef211" data-vars-headline="NWA&#x27;s first burger week set for May 3-9" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.google.com/search?q=where%27s+the+beef+commercial&amp;rlz=1C5GCCM_en&amp;oq=where%27s+the+beef+&amp;gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUqBwgBEAAYgAQyBwgAEAAYjwIyBwgBEAAYgAQyBwgCEC4YgAQyBwgDEAAYgAQyBwgEEAAYgAQyBwgFEAAYgAQyBwgGEAAYgAQyBwgHEAAYgAQyBwgIEAAYgAQyBwgJEC4YgATSAQg2NzkyajBqN6gCALACAA&amp;sourceid=chrome&amp;ie=UTF-8#fpstate=ive&amp;vld=cid:231ba2a4,vid:1FZNYXKHwNw,st:0" target="_blank">bringing the beef</a> with its first <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Burger Week" data-vars-click-url="https://www.nwaburgerweek.com/participating" data-vars-content-id="5d82f3ee-0777-48da-af04-1c6a940ef211" data-vars-headline="NWA&#x27;s first burger week set for May 3-9" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.nwaburgerweek.com/participating" target="_blank">Burger Week</a> May 3-9.Why it matters: For each $12 burger sold by 37 participating restaurants and food trucks, $1 will go to support the Northwest Arkansas Food Bank.

Monday Munchies: Springdale's Simply Scoop

I'm a sucker for anything red velvet; not sure why.

Here&#x27;s something short and sweet.The setup: After spending a warm afternoon working outside in downtown Springdale, the fairly new <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Simply Scoops" data-vars-click-url="https://www.instagram.com/simplyscoopsnwa" data-vars-content-id="72d962b3-46db-43c8-8f09-0e4aa1beefb8" data-vars-headline="Monday Munchies: Springdale&#x27;s Simply Scoop" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.instagram.com/simplyscoopsnwa" target="_blank">Simply Scoops</a> across the street looked pretty appealing.

Your weekend plans: Food, football, festival

Let&#x27;s make it a fun weekend, NWA.😎 <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Dogwood Festival" data-vars-click-url="https://siloamchamber.com/dogwood-festival" data-vars-content-id="f4575a25-e6f5-4a6b-b6d3-5921a237b659" data-vars-headline="Your weekend plans: Food, football, festival" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://siloamchamber.com/dogwood-festival" target="_blank">Dogwood Festival</a> — This three-day festival in downtown Siloam Springs includes live music, games and vendors today through Sunday.

Supreme Court justice to speak in Bentonville

The talk is part of a Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art speaker series.

Supreme Court Justice <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Amy Coney Barrett" data-vars-click-url="https://crystalbridges.org/calendar/building-bridges-a-conversation-with-justice-amy-coney-barrett/" data-vars-content-id="12e1a2db-9006-4744-9e31-c9ab90f5821b" data-vars-headline="Supreme Court justice to speak in Bentonville" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://crystalbridges.org/calendar/building-bridges-a-conversation-with-justice-amy-coney-barrett/" target="_blank">Amy Coney Barrett</a> will speak on May 9 at Heartland Whole Health Institute in Bentonville as part of a Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art speaker series.State of play: The series, Building Bridges, is intended to bring together thought leaders and artists with differing perspectives to model civic dialogue, according to Crystal Bridges.

Gov. Sanders signs 2027 budget and calls for tax cuts

Lawmakers approved a budget that was about $211 million higher than the fiscal 2026 budget.

Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders on Wednesday signed the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Revenue Stabilization Act" data-vars-click-url="https://www.arkleg.state.ar.us/Bills/Detail?id=sb75&amp;ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2026F&amp;Search=" data-vars-content-id="ea4d2c1a-1c13-4f13-937a-351799ab9519" data-vars-headline="Gov. Sanders signs 2027 budget and calls for tax cuts" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.arkleg.state.ar.us/Bills/Detail?id=sb75&amp;ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2026F&amp;Search=" target="_blank">Revenue Stabilization Act</a>, locking in a $6.7 billion budget and setting lawmakers up for a special session next week focused on cutting income taxes.Why it matters: The spending plan, which is a 3% increase from last year, effectively closes out the fiscal session and cements the state&#x27;s priorities for the year that starts July 1.

Walmart and J.B. Hunt want focus over flash

The two companies told Onward FX attendees that the Fortune 500 wants startups to provide fixes for specific business problems.

Walmart and J.B. Hunt Transport leaders told attendees at Onward FX in Bentonville what Fortune 500 companies want from startups: fixes for specific business problems.The big picture: Twice a year, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Startup NWA" data-vars-click-url="https://startupnwa.com/" data-vars-content-id="93fcf83c-9310-4def-94fc-e5bbbba1dfa0" data-vars-headline="Walmart and J.B. Hunt want focus over flash" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://startupnwa.com/" target="_blank">Startup NWA</a> organizers convene Onward FX with a curated group of entrepreneurs and venture capital firms to network and, hopefully, strike deals.

Panel: NWA needs regional strategy

The same concerns came up repeatedly in conversations across the region: traffic, preserving rural land and protecting each community's identity

Northwest Arkansas leaders on Wednesday said the region still has time to get growth right, but only if leaders act with deliberate purpose.The big picture: A panel discussion at the Northwest Arkansas Council&#x27;s spring meeting showed there&#x27;s a pressing need for a regional strategy.

Northwest Arkansas Council outlines visionary plan

The region's most pressing challenges are interconnected

Development

Leaders of the Northwest Arkansas Council on Wednesday revealed a vision for a regional approach to plan for development, housing, transportation, water and land use.Why it matters: NWA&#x27;s current path is fractured and gets harder to manage as each city grows, potentially undercutting the area&#x27;s affordability and livability as its population is set to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="hit 1 million" data-vars-click-url="https://nwacouncil.org/growth/" data-vars-content-id="c1e119d0-9ce1-4464-a846-9f1d9b77d274" data-vars-headline="Northwest Arkansas Council outlines visionary plan" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://nwacouncil.org/growth/" target="_blank">hit 1 million</a> by 2050.

Walmart revamps Great Value as store brands surge

Walmart's Great Value is one of the nation's largest brands for everyday grocery and household products — outsizing many major food companies.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Walmart" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/19/walmart-earnings-sales-ceo-john-furner" data-vars-content-id="7a7336b6-be32-4044-8c01-90fd99cb3498" data-vars-headline="Walmart revamps Great Value as store brands surge" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/19/walmart-earnings-sales-ceo-john-furner" target="_self">Walmart</a> is overhauling its biggest brand, Great Value, for the first time in more than a decade.Why it matters: The retail giant&#x27;s private-label brand is one the nation&#x27;s largest for everyday grocery and household products — outsizing many major food companies, Walmart told Axios.

Court temporarily blocks state's social media law

The law is part of an ongoing effort by Arkansas to restrict children's and teens' social media usage.

Arkansas cannot enforce <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="a law" data-vars-click-url="https://arkleg.state.ar.us/Home/FTPDocument?path=%2FACTS%2F2025R%2FPublic%2FACT900.pdf" data-vars-content-id="1a1e1b7b-1561-41b4-be97-83158ca3eaf5" data-vars-headline="Court temporarily blocks state&#x27;s social media law" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://arkleg.state.ar.us/Home/FTPDocument?path=%2FACTS%2F2025R%2FPublic%2FACT900.pdf" target="_blank">a law</a> that would require social media platforms to regulate minors&#x27; access — at least for now, a federal judge ruled this week.Why it matters: The law, Act 900 of 2025, likely violates the First Amendment, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="U.S. District Judge Timothy Brooks wrote" data-vars-click-url="https://netchoice.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/NetChoice-v.-Griffin-Arkansas-Act-900-Enjoined_Apr-20-2026.pdf" data-vars-content-id="1a1e1b7b-1561-41b4-be97-83158ca3eaf5" data-vars-headline="Court temporarily blocks state&#x27;s social media law" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://netchoice.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/NetChoice-v.-Griffin-Arkansas-Act-900-Enjoined_Apr-20-2026.pdf" target="_blank">U.S. District Judge Timothy Brooks wrote</a> in granting a preliminary injunction.

Charted: Arkansas farm busts

Arkansas led the U.S. in farm bankruptcies last year

Arkansas led the U.S. in farm bankruptcies last year, per data compiled by <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Farm Bureau" data-vars-click-url="https://www.fb.org/market-intel/farm-bankruptcies-continued-to-climb-in-2025" data-vars-content-id="ac0165a0-f41d-4e2f-ac54-c1f02e3ed185" data-vars-headline="Charted: Arkansas farm busts" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.fb.org/market-intel/farm-bankruptcies-continued-to-climb-in-2025" target="_blank">Farm Bureau</a>.<ul><li>That&#x27;s about 10% of all farm bankruptcies.</li></ul>Why it matters: It signals the severe economic pressure on the state&#x27;s agricultural community, even before President Trump&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="tariffs" data-vars-click-url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ARGSrVvNSvQ" data-vars-content-id="ac0165a0-f41d-4e2f-ac54-c1f02e3ed185" data-vars-headline="Charted: Arkansas farm busts" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ARGSrVvNSvQ" target="_blank">tariffs</a> and the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Iran war" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/07/us-consumers-inflation-iran-war" data-vars-content-id="ac0165a0-f41d-4e2f-ac54-c1f02e3ed185" data-vars-headline="Charted: Arkansas farm busts" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/07/us-consumers-inflation-iran-war" target="_self">Iran war</a> squeezed <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="margins" data-vars-click-url="https://www.iowapbs.org/iowapathways/artifact/1605/overproduction-leads-low-prices" data-vars-content-id="ac0165a0-f41d-4e2f-ac54-c1f02e3ed185" data-vars-headline="Charted: Arkansas farm busts" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.iowapbs.org/iowapathways/artifact/1605/overproduction-leads-low-prices" target="_blank">margins</a> and raised <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="input costs" data-vars-click-url="https://www.farmprogress.com/farm-business/farmers-pay-higher-input-costs-while-receiving-lower-commodity-prices" data-vars-content-id="ac0165a0-f41d-4e2f-ac54-c1f02e3ed185" data-vars-headline="Charted: Arkansas farm busts" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.farmprogress.com/farm-business/farmers-pay-higher-input-costs-while-receiving-lower-commodity-prices" target="_blank">input costs</a> even more.<ul><li>In September, both Ag Sec. Brooke Rollins and Republican Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="told a crowd" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2025/09/15/agriculture-secretary-rollins-usda" data-vars-content-id="ac0165a0-f41d-4e2f-ac54-c1f02e3ed185" data-vars-headline="Charted: Arkansas farm busts" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2025/09/15/agriculture-secretary-rollins-usda" target="_self">told a crowd</a> in Rogers that family farms are facing their worst crisis since the 1980s.</li></ul>Flashback: The Trump administration revealed a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="$12 billion farmer bailout" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/12/08/trump-farm-bailout-trade-war" data-vars-content-id="ac0165a0-f41d-4e2f-ac54-c1f02e3ed185" data-vars-headline="Charted: Arkansas farm busts" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/12/08/trump-farm-bailout-trade-war" target="_self">$12 billion farmer bailout</a> in December.The latest: USDA on Tuesday announced a national <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="ag-tech testing network" data-vars-click-url="https://www.usda.gov/about-usda/news/press-releases/2026/04/07/usda-announces-creation-usda-national-proving-grounds-network-strengthen-us-farm-and-ranch" data-vars-content-id="ac0165a0-f41d-4e2f-ac54-c1f02e3ed185" data-vars-headline="Charted: Arkansas farm busts" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.usda.gov/about-usda/news/press-releases/2026/04/07/usda-announces-creation-usda-national-proving-grounds-network-strengthen-us-farm-and-ranch" target="_blank">ag-tech testing network</a> to evaluate farm technologies under real-world U.S. conditions, aiming to help farmers use data to help increase profitability.

Gov. Sanders outlines budget agenda for lawmakers

Sanders' proposed budget for fiscal 2027 grew $194.5 million to $6.68 billion.

Declaring Arkansas is stronger than ever, Republican Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders delivered her <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="State of the State address" data-vars-click-url="https://sg001-harmony.sliq.net/00284/Harmony/en/PowerBrowser/PowerBrowserV2/20260408/-1/31344?viewMode=1" data-vars-content-id="66267c2a-ed3d-414f-a15b-ae34515e5fd7" data-vars-headline="Gov. Sanders outlines budget agenda for lawmakers" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://sg001-harmony.sliq.net/00284/Harmony/en/PowerBrowser/PowerBrowserV2/20260408/-1/31344?viewMode=1" target="_blank">State of the State address</a> Wednesday, outlining her legislative priorities for the fiscal session of the 95th General Assembly.Why it matters: During fiscal sessions, lawmakers decide how taxpayer money is spent.

Arkansas Legislature to decide state budget

Arkansas lawmakers will convene Wednesday to kick off the fiscal session to consider budget proposals for the state, including a boost in school voucher funding.Why it matters: During fiscal sessions, the Arkansas General Assembly decides how taxpayer money is spent for state departments.

Arkansas drone deal sparks ethical and safety concerns

Axios reviewed dozens of internal city documents and resident complaints obtained through public records requests

A military <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="drone maker&#x27;s arrival" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2026/02/18/military-drone-plant-opens-in-arkansas-draws-protest" data-vars-content-id="2de98790-7406-4867-a7ea-315064cd7392" data-vars-headline="Arkansas drone deal sparks ethical and safety concerns" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2026/02/18/military-drone-plant-opens-in-arkansas-draws-protest" target="_self">drone maker&#x27;s arrival</a> in Fayetteville earlier this year is stirring fears about secrecy, safety and whether residents want a deep tie to the defense industry.Why it matters: Residents and some city leaders say they had little visibility into a defense-related project that could reshape Fayetteville&#x27;s economy — and identity.

Judge: Remove Ten Commandments from Arkansas Capitol grounds

The decision comes weeks after another federal judge blocked a law about displaying the Ten Commandments in public schools.

A federal judge ruled late Tuesday that Arkansas&#x27; Ten Commandments monument on state Capitol grounds violates the U.S. Constitution.The big picture: The decision comes just weeks after another federal judge <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="permanently blocked" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2026/03/18/judge-blocks-arkansas-law-requiring-ten-commandments-schools" data-vars-content-id="04083445-6baf-4021-a2e8-7ed1d35f67e2" data-vars-headline="Judge: Remove Ten Commandments from Arkansas Capitol grounds" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2026/03/18/judge-blocks-arkansas-law-requiring-ten-commandments-schools" target="_self">permanently blocked</a> the enforcement of an <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Arkansas law" data-vars-click-url="https://arkleg.state.ar.us/Home/FTPDocument?path=%2FACTS%2F2025R%2FPublic%2FACT573.pdf" data-vars-content-id="04083445-6baf-4021-a2e8-7ed1d35f67e2" data-vars-headline="Judge: Remove Ten Commandments from Arkansas Capitol grounds" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://arkleg.state.ar.us/Home/FTPDocument?path=%2FACTS%2F2025R%2FPublic%2FACT573.pdf" target="_blank">Arkansas law</a> at six public schools that required them to display the Ten Commandments in classrooms if posters were donated.

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