Good morning, Bentonville.

The Walton Family Foundation announced a $3.15 million plan to support eight public space transformation projects in Northwest Arkansas over the next three years + eligible nonprofits and agencies in Benton and Washington counties can apply for Community Placemaking Grants until Aug. 3.

Renaissance Philanthropy launched a new fund to support early-stage businesses and local talent in Northwest Arkansas with backing from the Walton Family Foundation.

The Catalyze479 Fund will offer up to $500,000 to help startups and community businesses in Bentonville + the region.

Ed McClure, a longtime Rogers attorney and arts leader, died Tuesday at 66; he helped revitalize local theater and served on the Planning Commission.

He is survived by his wife Kathy and son Zachary (funeral arrangements have not yet been announced).

A Walton Family Foundation study released Wednesday shows NW Arkansas is aligning student pathways with workforce priorities to boost career readiness, and a new Innovation Fund using over $12 million has launched to support local startups and talent programs.

The fund targets early-stage businesses + community ventures.

Northwest Arkansas students earned academic honors this spring at colleges such as UCO, Flagler, ULM, Delta State, and Trine University.

Their achievements underscore a strong academic record in the region and set a promising stage for future success.

The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission new rules now require anyone age 16 or older without a hunting or fishing license to purchase a $10.50 permit to use the lands for activities like birdwatching or kayaking, plus revised limits now apply to fish storage and trout in tailwaters.

Bentonville stylist Gracie Kroeger, who has alpha-gal syndrome, opened The Beauty Standard at Sola Salon in February to offer vegan+fragrance free haircare that avoids hidden allergens.

Local businesses are also adapting as cases of the allergy increase in the area.

Arkansas football freshman Hugh Smith, who spent part of his childhood in Malaysia, moved from tight end at Ridge Point High to an offensive lineman role with the Razorbacks.

The 6-foot-5, 300-pound prospect is preparing for his collegiate debut (after recent staff changes) as he settles in.

Arkansas and Michigan State will tip off for the CBS Sports Thanksgiving Day Classic at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit at 3:30 p.m. on CBS (ticket sales begin Oct.

1 with a one-day presale Sept. 30).

Three local Razorbacks were drafted into the NBA; Darius Acuff goes to the Kings to lead offense in a rebuilding effort, Meleek Thomas lands with Cleveland as a bench scorer, and Trevon Brazile joins the Nuggets to boost athleticism + teams will evaluate their progress in upcoming games.

Tour de Frida: Bike Celebration

2-6 p.m. — The Momentary — Free entry — Celebrate culture and community with local artists, food, and a vibrant fashion show.

On the House with Morgan Johnston

5-9 p.m. — The Momentary — Free entry — Enjoy free live music by Nashville-based artist Morgan Johnston in a vibrant setting.

Vinyl Listening Party with Tiff Bogan

7-8:30 p.m. — The Momentary — Free entry — Explore the legacy of groove through an immersive vinyl listening experience.

Rebels & Realms Book Convention 2026

10 a.m.-6 p.m. — Rogers Convention Center — Free entry — Step into beloved worlds and meet favorite authors and narrators at this exciting book convention.

Lord Huron Live Concert

6-9 p.m. — The Momentary — Ticket prices vary — Experience the captivating sound of Lord Huron led by artist Ben Schneider in an unforgettable live performance.

ISI Brotherhood Roundtable Event

8-10 a.m. — Go Rogue Studio — Free entry — Engage with local Christian entrepreneurs for masterminding and networking.