Good morning, Bentonville.

A U.S. patent was issued for a pet food bowl invented by Michael Clark, Mark Christie, and Todd Goehner (all from Siloam Springs) that highlights local innovation in pet care.

Hospitals in our region earned awards for heart, stroke and diabetes care, and Washington Regional is recognized for joint and spine surgery.

New business moves include a banking center opening in Fayetteville, a Bricks & Minifigs store in Rogers, and Foundever hiring over 200 in Fort Smith.

Norman Lavers, a longtime creative writing teacher at ASU and dedicated writer who celebrated Arkansas nature, died in June at 91.

His final book — 100 Insects of Arkansas and the Midsouth — blends memoir with natural observation, inspiring readers to rediscover local outdoors.

The Royal Theater in Benton will host The Wedding Singer from Jan.

7 to 24 as Young Players and Stage 13 team up for a music-filled show with local talent (audition and ticket details to be announced).

On Thursday, July 30, the Arkansas Sportswriters and Sportscasters Hall of Fame will honor media legends Steve Wright and Ray Tucker and present the Mike Harrison Award to Tim Hamilton during a luncheon at Home2 Suites by Hilton in Springdale (starting at noon).

A record 63 high school football teams statewide will play under new leadership when the 2026 season kicks off in August, with moves including Anthony Lucas at Fayetteville (after 14 years at Pulaski Academy) and Lance Clark taking over at Cabot.

ISI Brotherhood Roundtable Event

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