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Pakistani field marshal in Tehran to try to seal U.S.-Iran deal

The trip could be a signal that the mediators think a deal is getting close.

World

Pakistan&#x27;s top military commander, Field Marshal Asim Munir, landed in Tehran on Friday as part of an effort to reach a deal under which the U.S. and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Iran" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/world/iran" data-vars-content-id="d47b9bfc-ba35-4540-9962-418493466440" data-vars-headline="Pakistani field marshal in Tehran to try to seal U.S.-Iran deal" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/world/iran" target="_self">Iran</a> would agree to end the war and launch negotiations for a broader agreement, a Pakistani security source told Axios.Why it matters: Munir has been the lead mediator between the U.S. and Iran since the war began. The fact that he&#x27;s in Tehran after several days of lower-level talks could signal a final push by Pakistan to try to get a deal, though U.S. and Iranian officials have cast doubt on the idea of an imminent agreement.

Tulsi Gabbard resigns as director of national intelligence

Gabbard is leaving due to a family issue, one senior administration official told Axios.

Politics & Policy

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Tulsi Gabbard" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/03/gabbard-trump-request-fbi-elections-raid-georgia" data-vars-content-id="ee615e61-e510-4c9d-8921-a6bc3017f119" data-vars-headline="Tulsi Gabbard resigns as director of national intelligence" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/03/gabbard-trump-request-fbi-elections-raid-georgia" target="_self">Tulsi Gabbard</a>, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="President Trump&#x27;s" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" data-vars-content-id="ee615e61-e510-4c9d-8921-a6bc3017f119" data-vars-headline="Tulsi Gabbard resigns as director of national intelligence" 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&#x27;s</a> director of national intelligence, announced Friday she is leaving the administration.Driving the news: Gabbard wrote in her <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="resignation letter" data-vars-click-url="https://x.com/DNIGabbard/status/2057875828810092718?s=20" data-vars-content-id="ee615e61-e510-4c9d-8921-a6bc3017f119" data-vars-headline="Tulsi Gabbard resigns as director of national intelligence" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://x.com/DNIGabbard/status/2057875828810092718?s=20" target="_blank">resignation letter</a> that her departure is related to her husband&#x27;s diagnosis with an &quot;extremely rare form of bone cancer.&quot;

Read the AI executive order thwarted by Trump tech allies

The industry and administration are scrambling to figure out what's next.

Technology

Here is the draft executive order on cybersecurity and AI as it stood before President Trump <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="pulled the plug" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/21/trump-ai-executive-order-postponed-why" data-vars-content-id="3815d43f-6713-4ba6-8393-5be720eb9efd" data-vars-headline="Read the AI executive order thwarted by Trump tech allies" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/21/trump-ai-executive-order-postponed-why" target="_self">pulled the plug</a> on it Thursday.State of play: The industry and administration are scrambling to figure out what&#x27;s next as key questions remain unanswered on the future of government access to top AI models and general AI safety.

Scoop: DCCC targets Maureen Galindo with 11th-hour ad buy

The House Democratic campaign arm is putting $35,000 into the race.

The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee is going up on the air with ads attacking Democratic congressional candidate <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Maureen Galindo" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/20/maureen-galindo-texas-antisemitic-zionists-prison" data-vars-content-id="f24ce48a-7953-47e9-8195-f81fb88a83b5" data-vars-headline="Scoop: DCCC targets Maureen Galindo with 11th-hour ad buy" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/20/maureen-galindo-texas-antisemitic-zionists-prison" target="_self">Maureen Galindo</a> in Texas, Axios has learned.Why it matters: Galindo has been widely disavowed by Democrats over antisemitic remarks. She most recently said she wants to convert an ICE facility into her district into a &quot;prison for American Zionists.&quot;

Consumers are deeply worried about inflation: survey

The University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index fell sharply to a new all-time low in May, at 44.8, from 49.8 in April.

Economy

Another month, another terrible reading on consumers&#x27; attitudes toward the economy — and the data contains a stark warning for the Federal Reserve on Americans&#x27; expectations for inflation over the long run.Driving the news: The University of Michigan&#x27;s consumer sentiment index fell sharply to a new all-time low in May, at 44.8, from 49.8 in April.

Monday Munchies: Hideaway Pizza comes to Rogers

Until now, Hideaway's nearest Arkansas location was in Fort Smith.

Food and Drink

The cluster of restaurants in the Pinnacle Hills area of Rogers has a new addition, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Hideaway Pizza" data-vars-click-url="https://www.hideawaypizza.com" data-vars-content-id="c17eab65-57ae-4635-843d-aaedb96963d9" data-vars-headline="Monday Munchies: Hideaway Pizza comes to Rogers" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.hideawaypizza.com" target="_blank">Hideaway Pizza</a>.🌎 Catch up quick: Hideaway is a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="longtime Oklahoma spot" data-vars-click-url="https://www.hideawaypizza.com/history" data-vars-content-id="c17eab65-57ae-4635-843d-aaedb96963d9" data-vars-headline="Monday Munchies: Hideaway Pizza comes to Rogers" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.hideawaypizza.com/history" target="_blank">longtime Oklahoma spot</a> that expanded into Arkansas in 2016. Until now, the nearest Arkansas location was in Fort Smith.

App targets postpartum care gap

It's usually about six weeks between delivery and follow-up.

Business

Conway entrepreneur Kim Lane built the postpartum care app Momme to support mothers during the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="weeks between hospital discharge" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2026/04/13/mental-health-maternal-mortality-data-gap-arkansas" data-vars-content-id="8ef0bb53-1182-4e44-abf5-ac0d77f91817" data-vars-headline="App targets postpartum care gap" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2026/04/13/mental-health-maternal-mortality-data-gap-arkansas" target="_self">weeks between hospital discharge</a> and their first follow-up visit.Why it matters: The U.S. has the highest maternal <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="mortality rate" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/10/20/maternal-mortality-states-countries" data-vars-content-id="8ef0bb53-1182-4e44-abf5-ac0d77f91817" data-vars-headline="App targets postpartum care gap" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/10/20/maternal-mortality-states-countries" target="_self">mortality rate</a> among high-income countries, and more than <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="80% of pregnancy-related" data-vars-click-url="https://www.cdc.gov/maternal-mortality/preventing-pregnancy-related-deaths/index.html" data-vars-content-id="8ef0bb53-1182-4e44-abf5-ac0d77f91817" data-vars-headline="App targets postpartum care gap" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.cdc.gov/maternal-mortality/preventing-pregnancy-related-deaths/index.html" target="_blank">80% of pregnancy-related</a> deaths are preventable. The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="weeks after delivery" data-vars-click-url="https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/committee-opinion/articles/2018/05/optimizing-postpartum-care?utm_source=chatgpt.com" data-vars-content-id="8ef0bb53-1182-4e44-abf5-ac0d77f91817" data-vars-headline="App targets postpartum care gap" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/committee-opinion/articles/2018/05/optimizing-postpartum-care?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank">weeks after delivery</a> are some of the most <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="vulnerable" data-vars-click-url="https://www.cdc.gov/maternal-mortality/preventing-pregnancy-related-deaths/index.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com" data-vars-content-id="8ef0bb53-1182-4e44-abf5-ac0d77f91817" data-vars-headline="App targets postpartum care gap" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.cdc.gov/maternal-mortality/preventing-pregnancy-related-deaths/index.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank">vulnerable</a> and least supported periods in maternal health care.

Craft beer industry going strong in Arkansas

Nationally, beer production is declining.

News

Arkansas breweries made more craft beer in 2025 compared to 2024, according to new data from the national Brewers Association.Why it matters: The state continues to buck a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="national decline" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/04/14/craft-beer-production-breweries-2025" data-vars-content-id="0970b909-690d-4a62-829e-13476e29f72a" data-vars-headline="Craft beer industry going strong in Arkansas" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/04/14/craft-beer-production-breweries-2025" target="_self">national decline</a> in craft beer production and sales.

The Agenda: Fayetteville to hear Swarm Aero appeal

The Fayetteville City Council is set to take up an appeal tonight that could affect a drone manufacturer&#x27;s ability to continue operating at its current location in the city.Why it matters: Swarm Aero, which recently opened near Drake Field <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="with little public knowledge or input" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2026/04/02/arkansas-drone-deal-sparks-ethical-and-safety-concerns" data-vars-content-id="ca10e31c-e27d-4fc7-81de-ed4e9ddf253f" data-vars-headline="The Agenda: Fayetteville to hear Swarm Aero appeal" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2026/04/02/arkansas-drone-deal-sparks-ethical-and-safety-concerns" target="_self">with little public knowledge or input</a>, has stirred <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="controversy among Fayetteville residents" data-vars-click-url="https://fayettevilleflyer.com/2026/05/14/residents-oppose-drone-manufacturers-presence-during-town-hall-at-fayetteville-library/" data-vars-content-id="ca10e31c-e27d-4fc7-81de-ed4e9ddf253f" data-vars-headline="The Agenda: Fayetteville to hear Swarm Aero appeal" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://fayettevilleflyer.com/2026/05/14/residents-oppose-drone-manufacturers-presence-during-town-hall-at-fayetteville-library/" target="_blank">controversy among Fayetteville residents</a> who oppose it.

Monday Munchies: Bentonville's Sestina

Billed as a Tuscan steakhouse, Sestina's street-level location is anything but pedestrian.

With the December opening of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Sestina" data-vars-click-url="https://www.sestinabentonville.com/" data-vars-content-id="13b020b6-275d-4473-987b-7cca94bd0323" data-vars-headline="Monday Munchies: Bentonville&#x27;s Sestina" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.sestinabentonville.com/" target="_blank">Sestina</a> inside the Compton hotel, downtown Bentonville scored yet another fine-dining option for Northwest Arkansans.The vibe: Anyone who appreciates a modern spin on midcentury modern architecture (at least that&#x27;s what my layman&#x27;s mind thinks to call it) will dig walking through the hotel lobby. It&#x27;s airy and bright, but simultaneously warm and homey.

Northwest Arkansas commercial real estate remains steady

The vacancy rate dropped from 7.2% to 6.3% in the second half of 2025.

Northwest Arkansas&#x27; commercial real estate vacancy rate dropped slightly from 7.2% to 6.3% in the second half of 2025, according to the biannual Arvest Skyline Report released Tuesday.Why it matters: Commercial vacancy rates are an indicator of the area&#x27;s economic vitality. Low rates often signal strong demand but can drive up rents and limit space for businesses.<ul><li>Generally, rates between 5% and 10% are considered healthy, Skyline authors note in the report.</li></ul>

Report: Northwest Arkansas' residential still resilient

Nationally, home sales hovered near a 30-year low in 2025 as high mortgage rates cooled demand, a trend Northwest Arkansas largely bucked.

Higher prices and mortgage rates didn&#x27;t stop more than 5,100 homes from selling in Northwest Arkansas during the second half of 2025, according to the Arvest Skyline Report released Tuesday.Why it matters: Real estate demand — <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="commercial" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2026/02/12/northwest-arkansas-office-vacancy-may-be-tightest-in-us" data-vars-content-id="a74ce0d2-a2da-4365-b0a0-c34a8632c130" data-vars-headline="Report: Northwest Arkansas&#x27; residential still resilient" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2026/02/12/northwest-arkansas-office-vacancy-may-be-tightest-in-us" target="_self">commercial</a> and residential — is an indicator of an area&#x27;s economy, but expensive housing and rents <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="shape who can afford" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2025/09/23/unity-key-as-northwest-arkansas-cities-face-growth-strain" data-vars-content-id="a74ce0d2-a2da-4365-b0a0-c34a8632c130" data-vars-headline="Report: Northwest Arkansas&#x27; residential still resilient" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2025/09/23/unity-key-as-northwest-arkansas-cities-face-growth-strain" target="_self">shape who can afford</a> to live in NWA.

UAMS launches Arkansas' first nurse-midwifery program

The program aims to improve maternal care and ease doctor shortages.

The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences will soon train nurses to specialize in midwifery with the first program of its kind in the state.Why it matters: Expanding midwifery can help fill a health care gap in Arkansas amid a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="doctor shortage" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2025/03/12/nwa-gain-residency-slots-doctors-specialty" data-vars-content-id="bdf7cc93-0d36-48ad-a2b5-af97c62d3350" data-vars-headline="UAMS launches Arkansas&#x27; first nurse-midwifery program" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2025/03/12/nwa-gain-residency-slots-doctors-specialty" target="_self">doctor shortage</a> and some of the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="poorest maternal health outcomes" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2026/03/31/heartland-forward-targets-maternal-mortality-but-arkansas-lags" data-vars-content-id="bdf7cc93-0d36-48ad-a2b5-af97c62d3350" data-vars-headline="UAMS launches Arkansas&#x27; first nurse-midwifery program" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2026/03/31/heartland-forward-targets-maternal-mortality-but-arkansas-lags" target="_self">poorest maternal health outcomes</a> in the country.

Arkansas teacher retention rates plateau

Slightly higher teacher turnover might be the new normal.

Education

Arkansas&#x27; teacher retention rate for this school year has not budged from last year, remaining below pre-pandemic levels, according to a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="new report" data-vars-click-url="https://oep.uark.edu/arkansas-teacher-retention-2025-26-a-new-normal/?utm_source=newsletter&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=newsletter_axioslocal_nw_arkansas&amp;stream=top" data-vars-content-id="fcd34d25-1754-452e-b247-f9ffe9ee39ee" data-vars-headline="Arkansas teacher retention rates plateau" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://oep.uark.edu/arkansas-teacher-retention-2025-26-a-new-normal/?utm_source=newsletter&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=newsletter_axioslocal_nw_arkansas&amp;stream=top" target="_blank">new report</a> from the University of Arkansas Office for Education Policy.Why it matters: Slightly higher teacher turnover might be the &quot;new normal,&quot; according to the report.

Crystal Bridges Museum expansion set for June opening

This next chapter further positions it not just as a place to experience art, but as a year-round community space.

Local Brief

Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art will reveal its expanded campus on June 6, marking the most significant addition since the Bentonville landmark debuted in 2011.Why it matters: Founded by Walmart heir Alice Walton, the museum is a cultural anchor for Northwest Arkansas and a major tourism draw. This next chapter further positions it not just as a place to experience art, but as a year-round community space.

Plan your spring: Paint, pics and printing

Mark your calendars for these  arts and culture events happening across Northwest Arkansas this spring and early summer

Mark your calendars for these arts and culture events happening across Northwest Arkansas this spring and early summer:

Crystal Bridges adds to collection ahead of expansion

The expansion is set to open to the public June 6.

Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art is expanding its craft collection ahead of its expansion set to debut next month.State of play: The museum has acquired about 140 works from about 60 artists in ceramics, glass, fiber, metal and wood, according to a news release from the museum.

Your weekend plans: Shopping, carnival, festival

Things to Do

Get out this weekend.😎 <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="4th Friday Siloam" data-vars-click-url="https://www.facebook.com/events/1423938205465444?acontext=%7B%22event_action_history%22%3A[%7B%22mechanism%22%3A%22discovery_local_tab%22%2C%22surface%22%3A%22bookmark%22%7D]%2C%22ref_notif_type%22%3Anull%7D" data-vars-content-id="1c296c1d-e16b-4577-a1d1-1ac0ba90a729" data-vars-headline="Your weekend plans: Shopping, carnival, festival" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.facebook.com/events/1423938205465444?acontext=%7B%22event_action_history%22%3A[%7B%22mechanism%22%3A%22discovery_local_tab%22%2C%22surface%22%3A%22bookmark%22%7D]%2C%22ref_notif_type%22%3Anull%7D" target="_blank">4th Friday Siloam</a> — Siloam Springs is kicking off the summer with a block party with food trucks, live music and vendors. 3-8pm today at Memorial Park.

Exclusive: Walmart says faster delivery is changing how people shop

Walmart says faster delivery is driving more frequent shopping as retailers increasingly compete on speed — not just price.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Walmart" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/21/walmart-earnings-ecommerce-growth-ceo-furner" data-vars-content-id="389de7e8-7789-4197-9ca7-fc342bf75672" data-vars-headline="Exclusive: Walmart says faster delivery is changing how people shop" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/21/walmart-earnings-ecommerce-growth-ceo-furner" target="_self">Walmart</a> says faster delivery is changing how customers shop, with more people using 30-minute delivery for everyday needs like diapers, cold medicine and meal ingredients, the company told Axios.Why it matters: Retailers are increasingly <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="competing on speed" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/12/amazon-delivery-speed-war-walmart-target" data-vars-content-id="389de7e8-7789-4197-9ca7-fc342bf75672" data-vars-headline="Exclusive: Walmart says faster delivery is changing how people shop" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/12/amazon-delivery-speed-war-walmart-target" target="_self">competing on speed</a> — not just price — as Walmart, Amazon, Target and grocery chains battle to become consumers&#x27; go-to platform for urgent shopping.

Walmart's growth beyond store shelves fuels strong quarter

Advertising, e-commerce and memberships became bigger growth drivers for the retailer.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Walmart&#x27;s growth" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/19/walmart-earnings-sales-ceo-john-furner" data-vars-content-id="ebd8dee0-061d-404d-bf1f-c607b085112e" data-vars-headline="Walmart&#x27;s growth beyond store shelves fuels strong quarter" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/19/walmart-earnings-sales-ceo-john-furner" target="_self">Walmart&#x27;s growth</a> beyond its stores continued in the first quarter, driven by advertising, e-commerce and memberships.Why it matters: The nation&#x27;s largest retailer is increasingly making money from the services built around <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="shopping" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/27/ai-shopping-changing-stores-role" data-vars-content-id="ebd8dee0-061d-404d-bf1f-c607b085112e" data-vars-headline="Walmart&#x27;s growth beyond store shelves fuels strong quarter" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/27/ai-shopping-changing-stores-role" target="_self">shopping</a> — not just the products on its shelves.

First summer since Camp Mystic spotlights camp safety

Only one summer camp in Northwest Arkansas is accredited by the American Camp Association.

Only one summer camp in Northwest Arkansas is accredited by the national organization that holds camps to a high industry standard.Why it matters: Camps that aren&#x27;t accredited are meeting their state&#x27;s regulations, but those can vary from recommended industry standards. Unaccredited camps may or may not be meeting those standards, leaving it up to parents to know what to ask, American Camp Association CEO Henry DeHart told Axios.

Fayetteville City Council clears path for Swarm Aero

The Fayetteville City Council voted 5-3 on Tuesday to grant drone manufacturer Swarm Aero&#x27;s appeal of a lower panel&#x27;s vote that the business had been mislabeled, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="the Fayetteville Flyer reported" data-vars-click-url="https://fayettevilleflyer.com/2026/05/18/fayetteville-city-council-recap-for-may-19-2026/" data-vars-content-id="ad5ad875-df2e-485e-a2e8-7a1430d456c1" data-vars-headline="Fayetteville City Council clears path for Swarm Aero" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://fayettevilleflyer.com/2026/05/18/fayetteville-city-council-recap-for-may-19-2026/" target="_blank">the Fayetteville Flyer reported</a>.Why it matters: The decision means Swarm Aero can continue operating at its current location near Drake Field in south Fayetteville.

XNA adds expedited security lanes using biometrics

Passengers pay $209 a year for a CLEAR+ membership.

Northwest Arkansas National Airport has added services from the company <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="CLEAR" data-vars-click-url="https://www.clearme.com/" data-vars-content-id="b4fe4326-3fcd-460a-a864-1fa0bb9f132b" data-vars-headline="XNA adds expedited security lanes using biometrics" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.clearme.com/" target="_blank">CLEAR</a> for passengers who want to speed through security.Why it matters: XNA has historically had quick security lines. This is another way the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="growing airport" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2025/04/03/xna-terminal-airport-upgrades" data-vars-content-id="b4fe4326-3fcd-460a-a864-1fa0bb9f132b" data-vars-headline="XNA adds expedited security lanes using biometrics" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2025/04/03/xna-terminal-airport-upgrades" target="_self">growing airport</a>, which <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="became busier" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2026/01/30/xna-flies-past-little-rock-first-time" data-vars-content-id="b4fe4326-3fcd-460a-a864-1fa0bb9f132b" data-vars-headline="XNA adds expedited security lanes using biometrics" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2026/01/30/xna-flies-past-little-rock-first-time" target="_self">became busier</a> than Clinton National Airport in Little Rock in 2025, can ease congestion, XNA spokesperson Olivia Tyler told Axios.

Walmart to lay off, relocate employees

The changes affect Global Tech and Product and Design.

Walmart is laying off or relocating about 1,000 corporate employees, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="The Wall Street Journal first reported" data-vars-click-url="https://www.wsj.com/business/retail/walmart-layoffs-relocates-technology-jobs-23bbf322" data-vars-content-id="d6b36fb4-3a08-44ac-ad04-01b9e6adcb0f" data-vars-headline="Walmart to lay off, relocate employees" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.wsj.com/business/retail/walmart-layoffs-relocates-technology-jobs-23bbf322" target="_blank">The Wall Street Journal first reported</a> Tuesday evening.State of play: The changes affect Global Tech and Product and Design, which has gone from organizing separately for Walmart U.S., Sam&#x27;s Club and international markets to a shared platform in the past year, according to a Tuesday memo to Walmart employees from technology, AI acceleration and product and design leadership, Suresh Kumar and Daniel Danker.

Your Northwest Arkansas summer event guide

Mark your calendars to make the most of what NWA has to offer this summer.

Mark your calendars if you want to make the most of what NWA has to offer this summer.🎡 <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Mudtown Days" data-vars-click-url="https://www.facebook.com/mudtowndaysinlowellarkansas" data-vars-content-id="48ab227f-72c2-4ec3-8068-63927a41c19c" data-vars-headline="Your Northwest Arkansas summer event guide" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.facebook.com/mudtowndaysinlowellarkansas" target="_blank">Mudtown Days</a> — Enjoy a carnival, a pet show and live music June 5-6 at KJ Memorial Park in Lowell.

Bentonville Film Festival reveals lineup and stars

The festival focuses on work by women, nonbinary people, people of color, the LGBTQ community and people with disabilities.

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Bentonville Film Festival" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2025/05/14/bentonville-film-festival-geena-davis" data-vars-content-id="67c75098-e24a-47c1-9dd4-f9de7eaa22c7" data-vars-headline="Bentonville Film Festival reveals lineup and stars" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2025/05/14/bentonville-film-festival-geena-davis" target="_self">Bentonville Film Festival</a> will bring Kevin Bacon, Kyra Sedgwick, Bobby Flay, Ree Drummond and a Netflix preview of &quot;Little House on the Prairie&quot; to NWA next month.Why it matters: The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="festival" data-vars-click-url="https://bentonvillefilm.org/" data-vars-content-id="67c75098-e24a-47c1-9dd4-f9de7eaa22c7" data-vars-headline="Bentonville Film Festival reveals lineup and stars" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://bentonvillefilm.org/" target="_blank">festival</a>, now in its 12th year, has become one of the region&#x27;s most visible entertainment events, drawing filmmakers, actors and industry leaders while elevating underrepresented voices in film and media.<ul><li>Last year&#x27;s festival generated about $4.5 million in local economic impact, Visit Bentonville president and CEO Kalene Griffith said.</li></ul>

Your weekend plans: Comedy, AAPI Month, singles event

It's already a busy weekend in NWA with University of Arkansas graduations and Mother's Day.

It&#x27;s already a busy weekend in NWA with University of Arkansas graduations and Mother&#x27;s Day, but here are some other options to add to your calendar.💕 <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Singles pitch night" data-vars-click-url="https://themomentary.org/calendar/singles-night-singles-pitch-night/" data-vars-content-id="64e2c958-e3d8-46c2-bd9a-651d18805e75" data-vars-headline="Your weekend plans: Comedy, AAPI Month, singles event" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://themomentary.org/calendar/singles-night-singles-pitch-night/" target="_blank">Singles pitch night</a> — Come see participants give presentations on their single friends and why they think you should date them.

Your weekend plans: Film fest, Artosphere, free kid-friendly events

Enjoy the first weekend of May.🎨 <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Artosphere" data-vars-click-url="https://waltonartscenter.org/artosphere/" data-vars-content-id="ec514ce3-3b62-457d-a022-665ce67b2188" data-vars-headline="Your weekend plans: Film fest, Artosphere, free kid-friendly events" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://waltonartscenter.org/artosphere/" target="_blank">Artosphere</a>, a series of art and nature events hosted by Walton Arts Center at various venues, kicks off today and runs through May 31.

Arkansas casinos took hit on sportsbook switch

DraftKings and FanDuel went live in Arkansas on March 20, so only 11 days of the month were impacted by the change.

Two Arkansas casinos that recently partnered with national sportsbook brands posted a combined mobile sports betting loss of more than $10 million in March, even as betting volume surged, the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette first <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="reported" data-vars-click-url="https://www.arkansasonline.com/news/2026/apr/27/southland-oaklawn-post-march-losses-in-mobile/" data-vars-content-id="2145edab-e274-4b2a-ae79-d6657ad8b22c" data-vars-headline="Arkansas casinos took hit on sportsbook switch" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.arkansasonline.com/news/2026/apr/27/southland-oaklawn-post-march-losses-in-mobile/" target="_blank">reported</a>.Why it matters: The results show how a splashy sportsbook launch can drive customer activity while still producing short-term losses.

NWA's first burger week set for May 3-9

Participating restaurants across Fayetteville, Springdale, Rogers, Bentonville, Siloam Springs will offer a designated Burger Week burger during the event.

Northwest Arkansas is <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="bringing the beef" data-vars-click-url="https://www.google.com/search?q=where%27s+the+beef+commercial&amp;rlz=1C5GCCM_en&amp;oq=where%27s+the+beef+&amp;gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUqBwgBEAAYgAQyBwgAEAAYjwIyBwgBEAAYgAQyBwgCEC4YgAQyBwgDEAAYgAQyBwgEEAAYgAQyBwgFEAAYgAQyBwgGEAAYgAQyBwgHEAAYgAQyBwgIEAAYgAQyBwgJEC4YgATSAQg2NzkyajBqN6gCALACAA&amp;sourceid=chrome&amp;ie=UTF-8#fpstate=ive&amp;vld=cid:231ba2a4,vid:1FZNYXKHwNw,st:0" data-vars-content-id="5d82f3ee-0777-48da-af04-1c6a940ef211" data-vars-headline="NWA&#x27;s first burger week set for May 3-9" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.google.com/search?q=where%27s+the+beef+commercial&amp;rlz=1C5GCCM_en&amp;oq=where%27s+the+beef+&amp;gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUqBwgBEAAYgAQyBwgAEAAYjwIyBwgBEAAYgAQyBwgCEC4YgAQyBwgDEAAYgAQyBwgEEAAYgAQyBwgFEAAYgAQyBwgGEAAYgAQyBwgHEAAYgAQyBwgIEAAYgAQyBwgJEC4YgATSAQg2NzkyajBqN6gCALACAA&amp;sourceid=chrome&amp;ie=UTF-8#fpstate=ive&amp;vld=cid:231ba2a4,vid:1FZNYXKHwNw,st:0" target="_blank">bringing the beef</a> with its first <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Burger Week" data-vars-click-url="https://www.nwaburgerweek.com/participating" data-vars-content-id="5d82f3ee-0777-48da-af04-1c6a940ef211" data-vars-headline="NWA&#x27;s first burger week set for May 3-9" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.nwaburgerweek.com/participating" target="_blank">Burger Week</a> May 3-9.Why it matters: For each $12 burger sold by 37 participating restaurants and food trucks, $1 will go to support the Northwest Arkansas Food Bank.

Charted: Arkansas' tax on 'sin'

Fiscal year totals for alcohol were about $60.5 million, but tobacco was more than double: about $148.2 million

Taxes collected on tobacco and alcohol sales account for less than 3% of the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="$7.13 billion" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/newsletters/axios-nw-arkansas-01cccf80-4e3c-11f1-9cd2-6356b11cc255.html?utm_source=newsletter&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=newsletter_axioslocal_nw_arkansas&amp;stream=top" data-vars-content-id="a990492e-3842-4867-902e-374bf189bcf1" data-vars-headline="Charted: Arkansas&#x27; tax on &#x27;sin&#x27;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/newsletters/axios-nw-arkansas-01cccf80-4e3c-11f1-9cd2-6356b11cc255.html?utm_source=newsletter&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=newsletter_axioslocal_nw_arkansas&amp;stream=top" target="_self">$7.13 billion</a> in gross general revenue collected in Arkansas during the first 10 months of fiscal 2026, almost $209 million.The big picture: The state&#x27;s &quot;sin taxes&quot; could be — what we&#x27;ve heard some CFOs describe it — a rounding error.

Outdoor companies set for demo night

The event begins at 5pm with presentations running from 5:30-9pm.

The University of Arkansas&#x27; Greenhouse Outdoor Recreation Program (GORP) will hold a demo night May 19 for its eighth cohort of six companies focused on cycling, paddling, recreation and outdoor education.Why it matters: Business accelerators like GORP are helping build a network of entrepreneurs ready to add to Arkansas&#x27; <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="$4.9 billion outdoor recreation" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2026/03/13/getting-outside-grows-arkansas-economy" data-vars-content-id="e23b5b76-d837-4810-93f5-b3cd5428d330" data-vars-headline="Outdoor companies set for demo night" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2026/03/13/getting-outside-grows-arkansas-economy" target="_self">$4.9 billion outdoor recreation</a> industry.

Walton Family Foundation focuses Home Region plan

The updated strategy is centered on its work in Arkansas

The Walton Family Foundation on Wednesday said it was launching a revised Home Region strategy, promising a tighter focus on its work in Northwest Arkansas and the Arkansas-Mississippi Delta.The big picture: The foundation is the Walton family&#x27;s philanthropic arm, making private grants to nonprofits, schools, local governments and partner groups to support specific projects and system changes.

Arkansas lawmakers advance income tax cut

Arkansas' general revenue would drop by $191.8 million in fiscal year 2027 and $144.8 million in fiscal 2028.

Politics

The Arkansas Senate and House of Representatives on Tuesday quickly OK&#x27;d <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="identical bills" data-vars-click-url="https://www.arkleg.state.ar.us/Bills/Detail?id=SB1&amp;chamber=Senate&amp;ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2026S1" data-vars-content-id="4d306157-4e80-46d0-9d27-56bb46aff397" data-vars-headline="Arkansas lawmakers advance income tax cut" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.arkleg.state.ar.us/Bills/Detail?id=SB1&amp;chamber=Senate&amp;ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2026S1" target="_blank">identical bills</a> that would trim income tax rates for individuals and corporations by 0.2%.Why it matters: About 1.1 million taxpayers and 7,800 corporations would get a rate cut, the state Department of Finance and Administration <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="estimates" data-vars-click-url="https://www.arkleg.state.ar.us/Home/FTPDocument?path=%2FAssembly%2F2025%2F2026S1%2FFiscal+Impacts%2FSB1-DFA1.pdf" data-vars-content-id="4d306157-4e80-46d0-9d27-56bb46aff397" data-vars-headline="Arkansas lawmakers advance income tax cut" 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=%2FAssembly%2F2025%2F2026S1%2FFiscal+Impacts%2FSB1-DFA1.pdf" target="_blank">estimates</a>.

Arkansas farmers squeezed by costs, lower prices

Input costs have climbed roughly 40% to 70% in the "last couple of years," while the prices farmers receive for their crops have moved in the opposite direction.

The Iran war has led to a sharp increase in fuel and fertilizer <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="prices this spring" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/06/iran-war-food-inflation-oil" data-vars-content-id="92ac0427-67a3-49d2-9224-76c363e5c743" data-vars-headline="Arkansas farmers squeezed by costs, lower prices" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/06/iran-war-food-inflation-oil" target="_self">prices this spring</a>, worsening an already difficult farm economy in Arkansas, which <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="led the U.S. in ag bankruptcies" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2026/04/09/charted-arkansas-farm-busts" data-vars-content-id="92ac0427-67a3-49d2-9224-76c363e5c743" data-vars-headline="Arkansas farmers squeezed by costs, lower prices" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2026/04/09/charted-arkansas-farm-busts" target="_self">led the U.S. in ag bankruptcies</a> last year.Why it matters: Agriculture is a cornerstone of the state&#x27;s economy, contributing <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="$25.6 billion" data-vars-click-url="https://bpb-us-e1.wpmucdn.com/wordpressua.uark.edu/dist/3/599/files/2025/09/1017_Contrib_Agri_sector_Ark_Econ_2023.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com" data-vars-content-id="92ac0427-67a3-49d2-9224-76c363e5c743" data-vars-headline="Arkansas farmers squeezed by costs, lower prices" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://bpb-us-e1.wpmucdn.com/wordpressua.uark.edu/dist/3/599/files/2025/09/1017_Contrib_Agri_sector_Ark_Econ_2023.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank">$25.6 billion</a> in 2023. As the No. 1 grower of rice and the third-largest producer of poultry, stress on Arkansas farms can ripple into the national food supply.

Arkansas' split-screen rankings reality

The state ranks well on some measures, but poorly on others, including health and wages.

Health

Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders recently <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="touted" data-vars-click-url="https://x.com/SarahHuckabee/status/2042378027439456661" data-vars-content-id="884f28d3-1a41-45dd-b6ce-d96c8a8d842a" data-vars-headline="Arkansas&#x27; split-screen rankings reality" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://x.com/SarahHuckabee/status/2042378027439456661" target="_blank">touted</a> a run of No. 1 rankings for Arkansas, saying: &quot;We are blessed by God to live in the best state, in the best country, in the history of the world.&quot; But it&#x27;s only part of the picture.The big picture: Broad claims about where Arkansas stands nationally depend heavily on which metrics are used. The state ranks well on some measures, but poorly on others, including health and wages.

Bipartisan panel highlights maternal health needs

The reported U.S. maternal death rate doubled over 20 years, and more than 80% of those deaths were preventable.

Republican Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders joined Maryland&#x27;s Democratic governor and the Crystal Bridges museum&#x27;s chair on NBC&#x27;s &quot;<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Meet the Press" data-vars-click-url="https://www.nbc.com/meet-the-press/video/it-has-to-be-bipartisan-governors-find-solutions-on-maternal-health/NBCN071301594" data-vars-content-id="c3a1a580-45f6-4b24-8d0c-5a1f720834bb" data-vars-headline="Bipartisan panel highlights maternal health needs" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.nbc.com/meet-the-press/video/it-has-to-be-bipartisan-governors-find-solutions-on-maternal-health/NBCN071301594" target="_blank">Meet the Press</a>&quot; on Mother&#x27;s Day to talk about maternal health.The big picture: The maternal health issue is a rare area of bipartisan agreement. Answers include earlier maternal health care, better <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="postpartum support" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2026/04/13/mental-health-maternal-mortality-data-gap-arkansas" data-vars-content-id="c3a1a580-45f6-4b24-8d0c-5a1f720834bb" data-vars-headline="Bipartisan panel highlights maternal health needs" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2026/04/13/mental-health-maternal-mortality-data-gap-arkansas" target="_self">postpartum support</a>, and more locally rooted systems to help people navigate pregnancy and birth, the panelists said.

Amy Coney Barrett talks Constitution in Bentonville

The Supreme Court justice is part of a speaker series on the Crystal Bridges campus.

Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett discussed her views on the high court&#x27;s role during a talk Saturday night at Heartland Whole Health Institute on the Crystal Bridges campus in Bentonville.What they&#x27;re saying: Barrett, who was appointed by President Trump in 2020, said she views the Constitution as a foundational document and herself bound to apply its texts, describing it as a &quot;bare bones&quot; document that leaves much up to the democratic process.

Gov. Sanders signs income tax cuts into law

Homeowners will be eligible for a tax credit of $675, up from $600.

Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders lowered the income tax rate Wednesday for the fourth time since she took office and ceremonially signed a bill to increase the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="homestead property tax credit" data-vars-click-url="https://www.dfa.arkansas.gov/office/arkansas-assessment-coordination-division/real-property/property-tax-relief/" data-vars-content-id="dbb0ebc1-d923-4b2f-93f9-e18df154c5b3" data-vars-headline="Gov. Sanders signs income tax cuts into law" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.dfa.arkansas.gov/office/arkansas-assessment-coordination-division/real-property/property-tax-relief/" target="_blank">homestead property tax credit</a> by $75.How it works: For individuals, the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="new law" data-vars-click-url="https://www.arkleg.state.ar.us/Home/FTPDocument?path=%2FBills%2F2026S1%2FPublic%2FSB1.pdf" data-vars-content-id="dbb0ebc1-d923-4b2f-93f9-e18df154c5b3" data-vars-headline="Gov. Sanders signs income tax cuts into law" 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%2F2026S1%2FPublic%2FSB1.pdf" target="_blank">new law</a> keeps a graduated structure, with lower-income brackets taxed from 0% to 3.7% and a bracket adjustment for taxpayers with net income between $94,701 and $97,600.

Gov. Sanders covers topics from Trump to motherhood

"I have to be really intentional about the time that I have with my kids."

Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders appeared on &quot;<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="The Riley Gaines Show" data-vars-click-url="https://www.foxnews.com/video/6394680056112" data-vars-content-id="af0dbc88-f20f-4165-8dac-abe1f412d964" data-vars-headline="Gov. Sanders covers topics from Trump to motherhood" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.foxnews.com/video/6394680056112" target="_blank">The Riley Gaines Show</a>&quot; podcast Tuesday for a wide-ranging conversation covering President Trump, state economics, education and motherhood. What she said:On Trump: &quot;One of the reasons that the president is so popular and was able to win the presidency, and the reason he&#x27;s been able to get things done, is because he is not a scripted robot, and he is very raw.&quot;

Gov. Sanders signs 2027 budget and calls for tax cuts

Lawmakers approved a budget that was about $211 million higher than the fiscal 2026 budget.

Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders on Wednesday signed the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Revenue Stabilization Act" data-vars-click-url="https://www.arkleg.state.ar.us/Bills/Detail?id=sb75&amp;ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2026F&amp;Search=" data-vars-content-id="ea4d2c1a-1c13-4f13-937a-351799ab9519" data-vars-headline="Gov. Sanders signs 2027 budget and calls for tax cuts" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.arkleg.state.ar.us/Bills/Detail?id=sb75&amp;ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2026F&amp;Search=" target="_blank">Revenue Stabilization Act</a>, locking in a $6.7 billion budget and setting lawmakers up for a special session next week focused on cutting income taxes.Why it matters: The spending plan, which is a 3% increase from last year, effectively closes out the fiscal session and cements the state&#x27;s priorities for the year that starts July 1.

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