Good morning, Bentonville.

Authorities invite the community to honor fallen police captain Christopher Kelley, killed in an explosion on May 30 at his Gravette farm—visitation is on Monday from 6 to 8 p.m., and his funeral is scheduled for Tuesday, June 9 at 11 a.m. at First Baptist Church of Rogers.

Sam’s Club promoted Steve Schrobilgen as its new chief operating officer & executive vice president, replacing Tom Ward after his retirement; he will relocate to Bentonville and begin work toward the end of June.

Walmart Associates Week is drawing thousands of associates from the US and abroad to Bentonville this week as they attend meetings, network, and support local shops including the Bentonville Farmers Market.

Walmart tech leaders explained yesterday at Associates Week in Bentonville that its AI assistant Sparky now suggests recipes and builds online carts by learning customer habits + employees also use its open-source Code Puppy to aid store operations.

America’s Car-Mart hired financial adviser Houlihan Lokey Capital Inc. & named new director Adam Paul to lead its review of strategic alternatives as it seeks a key warehouse credit line amid challenging market conditions.

This weekend, local events offer art, film, music and family fun.

Today, Bentonville hosts Courtyard Sessions at the Momentary from 7 to 8:30 p.m. and line dancing at Brothers Meethouse BBQ from 7 to 9 p.m. (others feature screenings, musical comedy and Family Day on June 6).

The Symphony of Northwest Arkansas named Akiko Fujimoto as its new music director after a season of six guest conductors; she will lead upcoming MainStage performances (including at Walton Arts Center) and help shape the season’s programming.

Benton County showed strong wage growth in Q4 2025, with average weekly pay rising by 10.8% to $1,653 — the second-highest gain among 372 large counties.

Arkansas overall saw a 5% increase, with wage totals concentrated among five key counties.

Northwest Arkansas Community College Board of Trustees will vote Monday on three housing actions including site approval, a funding model, and contractor vetting; the approved site at the northern campus edge could lead to a residence hall with 300-400 beds opening by fall 2031.

Arkansas women’s basketball coach Kelsi Musick announced the team’s 2026-27 roster now includes 7 transfers & 5 incoming freshmen, bringing the total to 14 players with one open spot; preseason practices will start soon as the staff fine-tunes its dribble-drive system.

Braxton Scriber, a Nicholls State transfer (6 ft 1 in, 250 lbs) who played as a Colonels freshman, committed to join the Razorbacks after a recent campus visit and may play tight end or fullback.

Razorback Front Office announced on Wednesday that Arkansas softball third baseman Ella McDowell and pitcher Payton Burnham signed agreements to return for their junior seasons after key roles in clinching a Women’s College World Series berth.

The team now prepares for an active offseason amid roster changes.

Dam Slam Pickleball Tournament

All day — Osage Park — $40 — Compete in this thrilling pickleball tournament featuring men's, women's, and mixed doubles.

Nike Volleyball Camp at University of Arkansas

9 a.m.-3 p.m. — University Recreation + Wellness (HPER Bldg.) — $455 — Girls ages 10-14 can elevate their volleyball skills through expert instruction and engaging classroom sessions in a fun environment.

Courtyard Sessions | Orquesta Afinke

7-8:30 p.m. — The Momentary — Free entry — Relax with live salsa, cumbia, and bachata from the vibrant Orquesta Afinke.

Community Concert with Big Piph & Tomorrow Maybe

6-11:59 p.m. — The Momentary Green — Free entry — Experience a vibrant evening of Hip Hop, soul, and funk with family-friendly activities.

Summer Camp | Puppet Makers (Ages 5-7)

1:30 p.m. — Eleven at Crystal Bridges — $200 ($160 for members) — Young artists will explore painting techniques through messy, fun creativity.

USPA Tested and Open 2026 Ozark Open

All day — The J Street Gym — No refunds — Compete in both Tested and Non-Tested Divisions at this official powerlifting event.

Courtyard Sessions: Live Music with Princeaus & DJ Kenny Moss

7-8:30 p.m. — The Momentary — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of experimental electronica and alternative rap in a lively outdoor setting.

Tai Chi on the Green

9-10 a.m. — The Momentary — $20 ($16 members) — Embrace tranquility with a guided Tai Chi session amidst nature as the sun rises.