Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 23rd of May.
Good morning, Bentonville.
💼 Business
AC Hotel Bentonville has opened at the entrance of the new 350-acre Walmart Home Office at 1201 S.E.
Eighth St. in Bentonville. Walmart paid $25.35 million for the building permit—this 153-room hotel, managed by Coury Hospitality, features a rooftop lounge called Falfurrias, AC Kitchen with a European-style breakfast, a fitness center, bike storage, and indoor/outdoor event space.
The Wall Street Journal reported that Walmart planned to cut about 1,500 jobs from its tech, e-commerce fulfillment and advertising divisions—confirmed by office employees—to reduce expenses and speed decision-making.
The move comes as the retailer faces higher import costs from tariffs and anticipates future price adjustments.
On Wednesday, Walmart shared a memo from its leaders noting it will reshape its Global Tech and U.S. teams—cutting some jobs and removing layers to speed up decision making and boost innovation.
The Bentonville-based company said it is helping affected associates find new roles aligned with its long-term growth strategy.
🎭 Culture
Alison Krauss and Union Station performed on May 16 at the Walmart Arkansas Music Pavilion in Rogers — rekindling bluegrass magic as band member Russell Moore said the band was having a great time.
Their live set confirmed his words and left the crowd excited.
🌲 Environment
Park rangers with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers reported that three Beaver Lake swim beaches—Hickory Creek, War Eagle Park and Horseshoe Bend Day Use—are closed because the lake is about nine feet above normal causing flood debris to build up.
Most of the lake remains open for boating and fishing, and rangers will check conditions daily while urging swimmers to verify that their destination is safe.
🏈 Sports
Benton jumped to an early lead and secured an 11 to 4 win over defending champion Sheridan today at Farris Field—clinching its fourth Class 5A softball state championship in five seasons.
Rexie Crane pitched a complete game while a strong defense kept the Panthers in control throughout the contest.
🎉 Bentonville Events
Submit an event →
Hippo Campus Concert
8:00 - 9:30 p.m. — The Momentary — $71 — Last-minute concert tickets available for an evening of indie tunes with Hippo Campus.
Felt Pennant Workshop
6:30-8:45 p.m. — Rick's Bakery — Complimentary snacks and drinks — Craft a unique, hand-sewn felt pennant in this fun workshop for all skill levels.
15th Annual Founder's Crawfish Boil
12-4 p.m. — George's Majestic Lounge — Ticket required — Enjoy 2lbs of crawfish along with corn, potatoes, and sausage while listening to live music by Squash Garden.
Zoso: The Ultimate Led Zeppelin Tribute Concert
8-11 p.m. — JJ's Live — Tickets available online or at the door — Rock out to the iconic sounds of Led Zeppelin with Zoso at JJ's Live.
Sow and Savor Camp
9 a.m. – 3 p.m. — Thaden School, Bentonville — Cost info not provided — Explore the journey of food from farm to table with hands-on garden activities.
Simple Minds Concert
7:00 – 8:30 PM — The Walmart AMP — Tickets from $47 — Experience an unforgettable night with the iconic sounds of Simple Minds.
The Fab Four - The Ultimate Beatles Tribute
8-9:30 p.m. — JJ's Live — Ticketed event — Experience note-for-note renditions of Beatles classics that will make you feel like you're watching the real thing.
Hammer Lane Hippies Concert
8 PM – 2 AM — Kingfish — No cover — Experience a powerhouse trio blending country, blues, and rock with original music.
Ashtyn Barbaree Live Performance
2-6 p.m. — Fayetteville Public Library — Free entry — Experience the enchanting Americana sounds of Ashtyn Barbaree in a captivating live show.
Explore Osage Summer Camp
8 AM – 12 PM — Osage Park — $190/week — Kids will explore wetlands and participate in fun outdoor activities including archery, games, and nature crafts.
🏠 Bentonville Real Estate
Submit a listing →
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
💼 Bentonville Job Board
Submit a job →
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
📣 Bentonville Announcements
Submit an announcement →
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
Stay in the know, Bentonville.
Free, always. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.