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Hollywood writers' contract deal includes historic AI rules

Writers and producers can agree to use AI on a project — but writers can't be made to use it.

Technology

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="agreement to finally end" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/09/27/wga-strike-end" data-vars-content-id="ee3cccfe-1b52-459f-827f-d58738b92e3e" data-vars-headline="Hollywood writers&#x27; contract deal includes historic AI rules" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/09/27/wga-strike-end" target="_self">agreement to finally end</a> the 148-day-long Hollywood writers strike includes landmark rules governing the use of AI in Hollywood projects. Why it matters: Legal, creative and labor norms around AI are unsettled, and the guidelines set today are likely to set patterns for the future.

Illustration of robot hands typing on a typewriter.

Millions more students eligible for free school meals

Some 3,000 more school districts will become eligible for meals at no cost.

Politics & Policy

Millions of more students will gain access to free breakfast and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="lunch at school" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2022/05/10/school-districts-brace-for-rising-lunch-prices" data-vars-content-id="e72061e7-e003-4f19-94a2-fc521930a8fc" data-vars-headline="Millions more students eligible for free school meals" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2022/05/10/school-districts-brace-for-rising-lunch-prices" target="_self">lunch at school</a>, the U.S. Department of Agriculture&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="announced" data-vars-click-url="https://www.usda.gov/media/press-releases/2023/09/26/usda-expands-access-school-breakfast-and-lunch-more-students" data-vars-content-id="e72061e7-e003-4f19-94a2-fc521930a8fc" data-vars-headline="Millions more students eligible for free school meals" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.usda.gov/media/press-releases/2023/09/26/usda-expands-access-school-breakfast-and-lunch-more-students" target="_blank">announced</a> Tuesday.Driving the news: The expansion of the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) will make some 3,000 additional school districts serving more than 5 million students eligible for meals at no cost.

Charted: Congress' most rebellious freshman lawmakers

Voting against your party can be politically risky, especially for a newcomer.

Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-Wash.) has voted against the majority of her party 18% of the time since the start of this Congress — more than any other freshman representative or senator, according to Quorum data.Why it matters: Voting against one&#x27;s party can be politically risky — or a political asset for swing-seat lawmakers seeking to showcase their independence. The stakes are even higher with such narrow majorities governing both the House and Senate.

Democrat Bob Menendez finds unlikely defenders in the GOP

"It's up to him and the voters of New Jersey to make the resignation decision."

As embattled Sen. <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Bob Menendez" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/09/26/senate-democrats-bob-menendez-resign" data-vars-content-id="38e84781-58b4-4eec-b6d6-6ec73141bf04" data-vars-headline="Democrat Bob Menendez finds unlikely defenders in the GOP" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/09/26/senate-democrats-bob-menendez-resign" target="_self">Bob Menendez</a> (D-N.J.) faces calls to resign from more than half of Senate Democrats, a surprising group of lawmakers is backing up his decision to stay and fight: Republicans.Why it matters: It&#x27;s a stark example of how the two parties have diverged on the question of what scandals and legal challenges disqualify someone from serving in public office.

Donald Trump committed fraud by exaggerating wealth, judge says

The ruling comes days before the civil trial is set to begin on New York AG Letitia James' lawsuit.

A New York state judge ruled Tuesday that former <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="President Trump" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" data-vars-content-id="97ae79ad-42a1-418d-bd98-7cda21cca066" data-vars-headline="Donald Trump committed fraud by exaggerating wealth, judge says" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" target="_self">President Trump</a> committed fraud by <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="exaggerating his net worth" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/09/08/trump-net-worth-inflated-billions-new-york" data-vars-content-id="97ae79ad-42a1-418d-bd98-7cda21cca066" data-vars-headline="Donald Trump committed fraud by exaggerating wealth, judge says" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/09/08/trump-net-worth-inflated-billions-new-york" target="_self">exaggerating his net worth</a> on financial records, according to a court filing. The big picture: The ruling by Judge Arthur Engoron comes days before the trial is set to begin on Democratic <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="New York Attorney General Letitia James&#x27;" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2022/09/21/trump-new-york-criminal-referral-fraud-irs" data-vars-content-id="97ae79ad-42a1-418d-bd98-7cda21cca066" data-vars-headline="Donald Trump committed fraud by exaggerating wealth, judge says" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2022/09/21/trump-new-york-criminal-referral-fraud-irs" target="_self">New York Attorney General Letitia James&#x27;</a> civil fraud lawsuit against Trump and his business on allegations of falsifying business records.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump speaks to a crowd during a campaign rally on September 25, 2023 in Summerville, South Carolina.

Walmart tops Fortune 500 list

Business

10 Arkansas laws taking effect in August

Nearly 900 acts passed by the Arkansas Legislature earlier this year are set to become law on Tuesday.

News

Mapped: Arkansas' Alzheimer's rates

Caring for those with the disease cost an estimated $321 billion nationwide last year.

Health

Northwest Arkansas Council jumpstarts attainable housing project

At its annual meeting Tuesday, the NWA Council revealed its collaboration on a 77-unit apartment project that will permanently earmark 30 units for families earning below the area median income

Arkansas special legislative session ends with wins for governor

Arkansas lawmakers adjourned Thursday after a four-day special session called by Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders last Friday.

Arkansas lawmakers adjourned Thursday after a four-day special session called a week ago by Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders.Driving the news: Shortly after adjournment, Sanders signed 11 bills into law.

The Agenda: What's on deck at Fayetteville City Council

Construction work may be coming to Razorback Road.

Politics

<figure><img alt="" height="4032" id="6c2305ef-39af-40ff-89a2-3cae5951902a" src="https://images.axios.com/gpKpi3WyssmhqpvR49UQqnbi67Q=/2023/09/01/1693586256877.jpg" width="3024"/><figcaption>Fayetteville City Hall. Photo: Alex Golden/Axios</figcaption></figure>Here&#x27;s a preview of what <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Fayetteville&#x27;s local government" data-vars-click-url="https://fayettevillear.portal.civicclerk.com/event/187/files" data-vars-content-id="2eab5c87-f40a-4be6-b7d0-a60bcfdbae5f" data-vars-headline="The Agenda: What&#x27;s on deck at Fayetteville City Council" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://fayettevillear.portal.civicclerk.com/event/187/files" target="_blank">Fayetteville&#x27;s local government</a> plans to discuss tonight:<ul><li>A $1.8 million contract with APAC-Central Inc. for construction at the Razorback Road and 15th Street intersection. The city is adding traffic signals. The work will also include road widening, curb and gutter and sidewalk installation, drainage improvements, signage and pavement markings and retaining wall construction.</li><li>Purchasing real estate at Lafayette Street and Fletcher Avenue to be returned to the NWA Black Heritage Association &quot;for restoration, redevelopment and advancement to the African American community into the vibrant and thriving district it was meant to be.&quot;</li></ul>Go to the meeting: 5:30pm at Fayetteville City Hall or <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="online" data-vars-click-url="https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_LZxNs78iRjCCdWz_zgQOCQ#/registration" data-vars-content-id="2eab5c87-f40a-4be6-b7d0-a60bcfdbae5f" data-vars-headline="The Agenda: What&#x27;s on deck at Fayetteville City Council" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_LZxNs78iRjCCdWz_zgQOCQ#/registration" target="_blank">online</a>.

Monday Munchies: An Indian food spread

Food and Drink

Alex here. I love some family-style Indian food.What happened: I stopped for dinner for two at <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Punjabi Kitchen" data-vars-click-url="http://pknwa.com/" data-vars-content-id="f785dd3c-8769-4743-8997-831e25f6c448" data-vars-headline="Monday Munchies: An Indian food spread" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="http://pknwa.com/" target="_blank">Punjabi Kitchen</a> in Centerton and ordered the tikka masala (curry with a tomato-and-onion base) with chicken, the chili garlic curry with chicken, cheese naan and an appetizer of paneer pakora.

What we're sipping: Last taste of summer

This cocktail is just sweet and fruity enough without feeling like a sugar rush.

It doesn&#x27;t feel quite like fall just yet.What happened: I wanted one last summery drink before everything becomes pumpkin flavored, so I opted for the El Inmortal ($15) at <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Yeyo&#x27;s Mezcaleria y Taqueria" data-vars-click-url="https://www.yeyosnwa.com/" data-vars-content-id="4b84ba56-d399-4f8a-8d6b-996b55548ad7" data-vars-headline="What we&#x27;re sipping: Last taste of summer" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.yeyosnwa.com/" target="_blank">Yeyo&#x27;s Mezcaleria y Taqueria</a> in downtown Rogers.

Low rates are keeping Arkansas homeowners locked in place

Roughly 37% of homeowners with mortgages in Arkansas have a rate below 4%, per Redfin data shared with Axios.

Real Estate

Roughly 37% of homeowners with mortgages in Arkansas have a rate below 4%, per Redfin data shared with Axios. That&#x27;s locking homeowners in place and leaving buyers with few homes to choose from.Why it matters: Mortgage holders are experiencing the &quot;golden handcuffs&quot; phenomenon: They might have a great rate now but likely can&#x27;t move without spending a lot more cash, explains Daryl Fairweather, chief economist for Redfin.

Northwest Arkansas' new-home permits more than double national average

Nearly 109 new home building permits per capita were issued in the Northwest Arkansas metro area in May 2023, up from 76.2 in May 2020 .

Nearly 109 building permits for new homes per capita were issued in the Northwest Arkansas metro area in May 2023, up from 76.2 in May 2020 — the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic.

University of Arkansas sees record enrollment — again

The school has more than 32,100 students.

Education

The University of Arkansas has its highest-ever enrollment for the third straight year.By the numbers: As of Tuesday, the eleventh day of classes for the fall semester, the university had 32,140 students including undergraduate, graduate and law students, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="according to a news release" data-vars-click-url="https://news.uark.edu/articles/66131/record-number-of-arkansans-as-enrollment-tops-32-000" data-vars-content-id="847fa155-d274-41d9-b923-f038e39b675a" data-vars-headline="University of Arkansas sees record enrollment — again" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://news.uark.edu/articles/66131/record-number-of-arkansans-as-enrollment-tops-32-000" target="_blank">according to a news release</a>.

NWACC enrollment sees post-pandemic rebound

The college had 8,409 academic-credit students enrolled for the fall semester as of Tuesday,

NorthWest Arkansas Community College&#x27;s enrollment is just shy of prepandemic numbers.By the numbers: The college had 8,409 academic-credit students enrolled for the current fall semester as of Tuesday, up from 7,839 last fall and almost reaching its fall 2019 enrollment of 8,649, according to a news release.

Climate change is making Northwest Arkansas summers even hotter

NWA experienced seven days this summer with temperatures made at least three times more likely because of human-caused climate change

Northwest Arkansas experienced seven days this summer with scorching temperatures made at least three times more likely by human-caused climate change, per a new Climate Central analysis.<ul><li>That&#x27;s 8% of the season&#x27;s 91 days.</li></ul>Zoom out: 326 million people — or 97% of the U.S. population — experienced at least one summer day with temperatures notably influenced by human-caused climate change in 2023, per Climate Central, a climate research and communications nonprofit.

University of Arkansas offers new business master's degree

The program is geared toward working professionals.

The Walton College of Business at the University of Arkansas has a new master&#x27;s program in product innovation, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="the university announced." data-vars-click-url="https://news.uark.edu/articles/66326/walton-college-launches-master-of-science-in-product-innovation" data-vars-content-id="3732a77f-82f5-408f-ad0c-7c96db1caef4" data-vars-headline="University of Arkansas offers new business master&#x27;s degree" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://news.uark.edu/articles/66326/walton-college-launches-master-of-science-in-product-innovation" target="_blank">the university announced.</a>Context: The program is through the college&#x27;s Department of Strategy, Entrepreneurship and Venture Innovation, and the Office of Entrepreneurship and Innovation.

Fayetteville tourism chief to run for mayor in 2024

Molly Rawn, the CEO of Experience Fayetteville, will run against Mayor Lioneld Jordan in 2024.

Molly Rawn, the CEO of Experience Fayetteville, will run against Mayor Lioneld Jordan in the 2024 election, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="the Fayetteville Flyer reported." data-vars-click-url="https://fayettevilleflyer.com/2023/09/25/experience-fayettevilles-molly-rawn-to-challenge-lioneld-jordan-in-2024-mayoral-bid/" data-vars-content-id="f05c0f56-c968-4b61-aa18-48cbccd43c57" data-vars-headline="Fayetteville tourism chief to run for mayor in 2024" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://fayettevilleflyer.com/2023/09/25/experience-fayettevilles-molly-rawn-to-challenge-lioneld-jordan-in-2024-mayoral-bid/" target="_blank">the Fayetteville Flyer reported.</a>Background: Jordan is in his fourth term as mayor and plans to seek a fifth term. He was re-elected in 2020 with about <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="68% of the vote" data-vars-click-url="https://www.washingtoncountyar.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/23893/637409370949370000" data-vars-content-id="f05c0f56-c968-4b61-aa18-48cbccd43c57" data-vars-headline="Fayetteville tourism chief to run for mayor in 2024" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.washingtoncountyar.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/23893/637409370949370000" target="_blank">68% of the vote</a> in a four-way race.

Illustration of I Voted stickers, piled on top of one another. 

Arkansas to get $10.3 million grant for electric grid

The money will help prevent electric outages.

The state will receive $10.3 million in federal funding over two years to upgrade its electric grid, the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration announced.Details: The money — from the U.S. Department of Energy through the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="bipartisan infrastructure bill" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2021/11/15/biden-signs-infrastructure-bill-law" data-vars-content-id="0b2eebd1-773d-4131-a65e-951e29b64227" data-vars-headline="Arkansas to get $10.3 million grant for electric grid" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2021/11/15/biden-signs-infrastructure-bill-law" target="_self">bipartisan infrastructure bill</a> Congress passed in 2021 — will help prevent electric outages, according to state finance officials.

Illustration of a hundred dollar bill stylized as an electric symbol.

Loan demand continues for Arkansas banks

Demand for residential and commercial loans in Arkansas remains strong despite the highest interest rates in more than 20 years, bank industry insiders told Axios.

Demand for residential and commercial loans in Arkansas remains strong despite the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="highest interest rates" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/07/26/fed-interest-rates-up-today-2023" data-vars-content-id="c4c113fd-1127-432a-86c0-0bbc824d8cbe" data-vars-headline="Loan demand continues for Arkansas banks" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/07/26/fed-interest-rates-up-today-2023" target="_self">highest interest rates</a> in more than 20 years, bank industry insiders told Axios.<ul><li>It&#x27;s a sign consumers and developers are adjusting to the new cost of things, bankers said.</li></ul>Driving the news: The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Federal Reserve" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/09/18/inflation-federal-reserve-whats-next" data-vars-content-id="c4c113fd-1127-432a-86c0-0bbc824d8cbe" data-vars-headline="Loan demand continues for Arkansas banks" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/09/18/inflation-federal-reserve-whats-next" target="_self">Federal Reserve</a> left interest rates unchanged Wednesday, and issued new projections indicating most officials expect one more rate hike this year, Axios&#x27; Neil Irwin <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="reports" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/09/20/fed-rates-unchanged" data-vars-content-id="c4c113fd-1127-432a-86c0-0bbc824d8cbe" data-vars-headline="Loan demand continues for Arkansas banks" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/09/20/fed-rates-unchanged" target="_self">reports</a>.

More new moms are working in Northwest Arkansas

65.7% of Northwest Arkansas women who gave birth in the previous 12 months were in the labor force as of 2022.

The percentage of Northwest Arkansas women who recently gave birth and remain part of the workforce grew in 2022 after dropping for the previous three years, per new census data.Why it matters: Motherhood often knocks women out of the labor force — at least temporarily — slowing their career and earnings growth and contributing to the gender pay gap.

NW Arkansas National Airport board OKs cutting Highfill ties

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Northwest Arkansas National Airport" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/09/12/xna-northwest-arkansas-airport-growth-regional-airport?utm_source=newsletter&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=newsletter_axioswhatsnext&amp;stream=science" data-vars-content-id="c0e94d20-3dcf-4259-93ce-0fc364e1f743" data-vars-headline="NW Arkansas National Airport board OKs cutting Highfill ties" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/09/12/xna-northwest-arkansas-airport-growth-regional-airport?utm_source=newsletter&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=newsletter_axioswhatsnext&amp;stream=science" target="_self">Northwest Arkansas National Airport</a> directors voted to begin the monthslong process to de-annex from Highfill, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette reports" data-vars-click-url="https://www.nwaonline.com/news/2023/sep/20/northwest-arkansas-national-airport-seeks-to-fly/" data-vars-content-id="c0e94d20-3dcf-4259-93ce-0fc364e1f743" data-vars-headline="NW Arkansas National Airport board OKs cutting Highfill ties" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.nwaonline.com/news/2023/sep/20/northwest-arkansas-national-airport-seeks-to-fly/" target="_blank">the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette reports</a>,What they&#x27;re saying: Highfill collects a 2% sales tax on transactions, which comes out of the airport&#x27;s bottom line, airport CEO Aaron Burke told Axios last month. Airport officials do not have an estimate for how much sales tax Highfill collects from airport transactions, spokesperson Olivia Moore said.

Illustration of an airplane in the air, being held back by a string that a hand is reaching out to cut with a pair of scissors. 

Rice donation to reach all of Arkansas

The Arkansas Rice Federation will donate 240,000 pounds of milled rice to the the state's largest food bank.

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Arkansas Rice Federation" data-vars-click-url="https://www.arkansasrice.org/" data-vars-content-id="135ff692-6631-4734-ad46-0e565076968a" data-vars-headline="Rice donation to reach all of Arkansas" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.arkansasrice.org/" target="_blank">Arkansas Rice Federation</a> will donate 240,000 pounds of milled rice to the the state&#x27;s largest food bank.<ul><li>The donation, equal to about 1.8 million servings, was <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="announced" data-vars-click-url="https://fb.watch/na-7MQR4or/" data-vars-content-id="135ff692-6631-4734-ad46-0e565076968a" data-vars-headline="Rice donation to reach all of Arkansas" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://fb.watch/na-7MQR4or/" target="_blank">announced</a> Wednesday at the Arkansas Food Bank in Little Rock.</li></ul>Driving the news: September is <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Hunger Action Month" data-vars-click-url="https://www.feedingamerica.org/take-action/hunger-action-month" data-vars-content-id="135ff692-6631-4734-ad46-0e565076968a" data-vars-headline="Rice donation to reach all of Arkansas" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.feedingamerica.org/take-action/hunger-action-month" target="_blank">Hunger Action Month</a>, National Rice Month and was proclaimed Arkansas Rice Month by Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders on Wednesday.

Northwest Arkansas gets a raise

NWA's median household income is on the rise.

The median household income across Northwest Arkansas rose 2.9% between 2019 and 2022, per new U.S. Census Bureau data. Median income for the NWA metro area was $73,364 in 2022, compared with $71,294 in 2019, adjusted for inflation.By the numbers: The share of NWA households making $50,000 to $75,000 annually decreased from 19% to 18% between 2019 and 2022, while the share making more than $100,000 jumped from 27% to 35%.

Legislators narrow FOI bill to governor's security

After pushback from Republicans and Democrats on a proposed bill to significantly change the state's Freedom of Information law, legislators filed new bills Tuesday.

After <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="pushback from Republicans and Democrats" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2023/09/13/arkansas-public-records-changes-foia" data-vars-content-id="48296256-7afd-4721-80eb-3f7f965adfc2" data-vars-headline="Legislators narrow FOI bill to governor&#x27;s security" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2023/09/13/arkansas-public-records-changes-foia" target="_self">pushback from Republicans and Democrats</a> on a proposed bill to significantly change the state&#x27;s Freedom of Information law, legislators filed new bills late Tuesday.State of play: Mirror language in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Senate Bill 10" data-vars-click-url="https://www.arkleg.state.ar.us/Home/FTPDocument?path=%2FBills%2F2023S1%2FPublic%2FSB10.pdf" data-vars-content-id="48296256-7afd-4721-80eb-3f7f965adfc2" data-vars-headline="Legislators narrow FOI bill to governor&#x27;s security" 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=%2FBills%2F2023S1%2FPublic%2FSB10.pdf" target="_blank">Senate Bill 10</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="House Bill 1012" data-vars-click-url="https://www.arkleg.state.ar.us/Home/FTPDocument?path=%2FBills%2F2023S1%2FPublic%2FHB1012.pdf" data-vars-content-id="48296256-7afd-4721-80eb-3f7f965adfc2" data-vars-headline="Legislators narrow FOI bill to governor&#x27;s security" 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=%2FBills%2F2023S1%2FPublic%2FHB1012.pdf" target="_blank">House Bill 1012</a> now limit the proposed amendment to records related to the security detail of the governor and constitutional officers — much narrower than original <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="bills" data-vars-click-url="https://www.arkleg.state.ar.us/Home/FTPDocument?path=%2FBills%2F2023S1%2FPublic%2FSB10.pdf" data-vars-content-id="48296256-7afd-4721-80eb-3f7f965adfc2" data-vars-headline="Legislators narrow FOI bill to governor&#x27;s security" 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=%2FBills%2F2023S1%2FPublic%2FSB10.pdf" target="_blank">bills</a>.

Monday Munchies: Red beans and rice at Arsaga's Mill District

Cool weather is in the not-too-distant future, so many are already craving stews, gumbos and steamy bowls of chili.

Cool weather is in the not-too-distant future, so many are already craving stews, gumbos and steamy bowls of chili.The setup: Though it was 70 degrees, the mental leap to this fare was a short one on a recent rainy day when I met a source for lunch at <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Arsaga&#x27;s Mill District" data-vars-click-url="https://www.arsagas.com/mill-district" data-vars-content-id="8e2b1ce5-e74c-42e9-b1fd-8a2168bcd5c2" data-vars-headline="Monday Munchies: Red beans and rice at Arsaga&#x27;s Mill District" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.arsagas.com/mill-district" target="_blank">Arsaga&#x27;s Mill District</a>.

Your weekend plans in NWA

Things to Do

It&#x27;s a packed weekend with Bikes, Blues and BBQ, the FORMAT Festival and the Ladies Professional Golf Association annual tour stop in Rogers. <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Here&#x27;s the rundown" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2023/09/20/things-to-do-events-nwa-weekend" data-vars-content-id="88fcc9b3-1589-4b64-94e8-ae65c187c4a7" data-vars-headline="Your weekend plans in NWA" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2023/09/20/things-to-do-events-nwa-weekend" target="_self">Here&#x27;s the rundown</a>.Those who didn&#x27;t plan ahead to attend any of the big multiday events are by no means out of luck. Here are some alternatives:

Illustration of two martini glasses forming the "W" in "weekend."

Festivals and events are taking over NWA this week

Get ready for quite the mashup of major multiday events in NWA — a bike rally, a music and arts festival, and a professional golf tournament.What&#x27;s happening: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Bikes Blues &amp; BBQ" data-vars-click-url="https://bikesbluesandbbq.org/" data-vars-content-id="babea6da-ef74-4653-b6d9-092345fe9cef" data-vars-headline="Festivals and events are taking over NWA this week" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://bikesbluesandbbq.org/" target="_blank">Bikes Blues &amp; BBQ</a> kicks off today in downtown Rogers and Eureka Springs; it runs through Saturday.

Illustration of a fall leaf crowd-surfing. 

Things to do in NWA this week

Here's how to get out of the house Sept. 18-21.

Getting out isn&#x27;t just for the weekend. Here are some weeknight ideas:🤣 See a comedy show — It&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="open mic night" data-vars-click-url="https://www.facebook.com/events/547907904144319/547907984144311/" data-vars-content-id="a34d705e-f920-4af4-9495-3d2d1790a0c8" data-vars-headline="Things to do in NWA this week" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.facebook.com/events/547907904144319/547907984144311/" target="_blank">open mic night</a> Wednesday at New Province Brewing in Rogers. Plus, Shaun Jones at 7:30pm Thursday at Walton Arts Center&#x27;s Starr Theater (<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="get tickets" data-vars-click-url="https://tickets.waltonartscenter.org/27202/27203" data-vars-content-id="a34d705e-f920-4af4-9495-3d2d1790a0c8" data-vars-headline="Things to do in NWA this week" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://tickets.waltonartscenter.org/27202/27203" target="_blank">get tickets</a> ranging $21-$31) and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Scott James" data-vars-click-url="https://www.facebook.com/events/835114431534645" data-vars-content-id="a34d705e-f920-4af4-9495-3d2d1790a0c8" data-vars-headline="Things to do in NWA this week" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.facebook.com/events/835114431534645" target="_blank">Scott James</a> at 8pm Thursday at Black Apple Hard Cider in Springdale.

an illustration of a sugar cookie decorated with frosting forming a winking emoji with its tongue sticking out

"Annie Leibovitz at Work" a must-see at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art

A simple picture taken through a car windshield while crossing the Golden Gate Bridge was a turning point in the college career of Annie Leibovitz.

A simple picture taken through a car windshield while crossing the Golden Gate Bridge was a turning point in the college career of Annie Leibovitz. Eventually, she shifted from painting and pursued photography.<ul><li>Lucky for us.</li></ul>Driving the news: Leibovitz walked media members through the temporary gallery of Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art Thursday, ahead of a sold-out lecture tonight and Saturday&#x27;s opening of the &quot;<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Annie Leibovitz At Work" data-vars-click-url="https://crystalbridges.org/calendar/annie-leibovitz/?gad=1&amp;gclid=CjwKCAjw3oqoBhAjEiwA_UaLtr6POstKyZdEwawBO_08PlHP_4iF49mGcwViR9epolMoRXKAOPTrQRoC13cQAvD_BwE" data-vars-content-id="c716dad7-d201-4733-a591-6d6ca5e40d89" data-vars-headline="&quot;Annie Leibovitz at Work&quot; a must-see at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://crystalbridges.org/calendar/annie-leibovitz/?gad=1&amp;gclid=CjwKCAjw3oqoBhAjEiwA_UaLtr6POstKyZdEwawBO_08PlHP_4iF49mGcwViR9epolMoRXKAOPTrQRoC13cQAvD_BwE" target="_blank">Annie Leibovitz At Work</a>&quot; exhibit.

BYU is ready to exact revenge on the Razorbacks

Revenge is a dish best served on the gridiron. At least that's what BYU is going for Saturday evening.

Revenge is a dish best served on the gridiron. At least that&#x27;s what Brigham Young University is going for Saturday evening.Driving the news: The Cougars head to Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium looking to avenge a 52-35 loss to Arkansas last season.

Walmart opens its first pet-service center

Bentonville-based Walmart has opened its first pet-service center complete with veterinary care and grooming at a store in Dallas, Georgia.Why it matters: Walmart, which already offers medical clinics, auto services and a pharmacy, could position itself to also be a competitive pet-care provider.

The Shift: Cartwheel starts software spinoff

Bentonville startup studio Cartwheel is building a new company from an AI software product designed to help food and beverage makers.

Bentonville startup studio <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Cartwheel" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2022/01/19/cartwheel-startup-technology-accelerator-arkansas" data-vars-content-id="6a85e176-890a-450b-9bd8-25ca4229f160" data-vars-headline="The Shift: Cartwheel starts software spinoff" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2022/01/19/cartwheel-startup-technology-accelerator-arkansas" target="_self">Cartwheel</a> is building a new company from an AI software product designed to help food and beverage makers.Driving the news: The company — <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Quantis" data-vars-click-url="https://quantis.ai/" data-vars-content-id="6a85e176-890a-450b-9bd8-25ca4229f160" data-vars-headline="The Shift: Cartwheel starts software spinoff" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://quantis.ai/" target="_blank">Quantis</a> — recently hired <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Cate Gutowski" data-vars-click-url="https://www.linkedin.com/in/cate-gutowski/" data-vars-content-id="6a85e176-890a-450b-9bd8-25ca4229f160" data-vars-headline="The Shift: Cartwheel starts software spinoff" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/cate-gutowski/" target="_blank">Cate Gutowski</a> as CEO and will be basing its headquarters in Bentonville. Gutowski most recently was chief operating officer at publicly traded <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Primo Water" data-vars-click-url="https://primowatercorp.com/" data-vars-content-id="6a85e176-890a-450b-9bd8-25ca4229f160" data-vars-headline="The Shift: Cartwheel starts software spinoff" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://primowatercorp.com/" target="_blank">Primo Water</a> of Tampa Bay, Florida.

Illustration of robot hands holding a clipboard.

Remote work declines in Arkansas after pandemic highs

13.8% of Northwest Arkansas metro area workers were working from home as of 2022.

13.8% of Northwest Arkansas workers were working from home as of 2022, compared to 17% in 2021, per new U.S. Census Bureau figures released last week.The big picture: Workers in America&#x27;s biggest, most competitive cities aren&#x27;t giving up the flexibility and savings — in both time and gas money — of working from home.

First-quarter loss drags down Arvest's second quarter

Arvest Bank of Fayetteville posted a loss of nearly $1.4 million for the first half of the year.

Arvest Bank of Fayetteville posted a loss of nearly $1.4 million for the first half of the year.<ul><li>It was the only one of 20 Arkansas-based banks and credit unions with more than $1 billion in assets to report a loss on June 30, according to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Arkansas Business" data-vars-click-url="https://www.arkansasbusiness.com/article/146018/q1-loss-lingers-for-arvest-bank" data-vars-content-id="23649cf7-da02-4154-a242-a5e0e61fa1b7" data-vars-headline="First-quarter loss drags down Arvest&#x27;s second quarter" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.arkansasbusiness.com/article/146018/q1-loss-lingers-for-arvest-bank" target="_blank">Arkansas Business</a>.</li></ul>State of play: Arvest made $4.1 million in profit in the second quarter, but not enough to offset its loss of about $5.5 million in the first quarter.

The Shift: Sober Sidekick app connects people in recovery

Entrepreneur Chris Thompson found his darkest personal moment could be a bright spot for others.

Entrepreneur Chris Thompson found his darkest personal moment could be a bright spot for others.<ul><li>&quot;I&#x27;m lucky to be alive after my own battle with substance abuse,&quot; he told me.</li></ul>The app he created, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Sober Sidekick" data-vars-click-url="https://www.sobersidekick.com/" data-vars-content-id="fc77fe2e-9b6d-4ede-b987-338327374cc0" data-vars-headline="The Shift: Sober Sidekick app connects people in recovery" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.sobersidekick.com/" target="_blank">Sober Sidekick</a>, connects people looking to stay clean and sober to build an ever-growing support network and reduce relapse.

UA institute gets $5 million for prosthetics research

University of Arkansas' Institute for Integrative & Innovative Research received $4.9 million to expand clinical research for prosthetics.

The Department of Defense granted the University of Arkansas&#x27; <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Institute for Integrative &amp; Innovative Research" data-vars-click-url="https://i3r.uark.edu/index.php" data-vars-content-id="75a88859-623f-45af-992d-677e92a7341a" data-vars-headline="UA institute gets $5 million for prosthetics research" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://i3r.uark.edu/index.php" target="_blank">Institute for Integrative &amp; Innovative Research</a> (I3R) $4.9 million to expand <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="clinical research" data-vars-click-url="https://ans.uark.edu/studies/neural-enabled-prosthesis-upper-limb-amputees.php" data-vars-content-id="75a88859-623f-45af-992d-677e92a7341a" data-vars-headline="UA institute gets $5 million for prosthetics research" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://ans.uark.edu/studies/neural-enabled-prosthesis-upper-limb-amputees.php" target="_blank">clinical research</a> for prosthetics that can be driven by the user&#x27;s brain.<ul><li>Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland, also will be added as a clinical site for the study, a UA news release says.</li></ul>Why it matters: Walter Reed is one of only three military hospitals that treat traumatic upper-body amputations. The addition will allow the clinical trial to expand.

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