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How the UFC conquered Trump's Washington

The UFC and Trump have forged one of the most successful cultural alliances in modern politics.

Politics & Policy

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Dana White" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2024/07/18/dana-white-rnc-trump-melania" data-vars-content-id="ffbfc82a-c9ff-4c06-9448-1e5fc91918d4" data-vars-headline="How the UFC conquered Trump&#x27;s Washington" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2024/07/18/dana-white-rnc-trump-melania" target="_self">Dana White</a> likes to say he sells &quot;holy sh*t moments for a living.&quot; <ul><li>Sunday night, the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="UFC" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/06/09/ufc-white-house-event-press-credentials" data-vars-content-id="ffbfc82a-c9ff-4c06-9448-1e5fc91918d4" data-vars-headline="How the UFC conquered Trump&#x27;s Washington" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/06/09/ufc-white-house-event-press-credentials" target="_self">UFC</a> CEO will attempt his magnum opus on the biggest stage in combat sports history.</li></ul>Why it matters: The UFC and President <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Trump" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" data-vars-content-id="ffbfc82a-c9ff-4c06-9448-1e5fc91918d4" data-vars-headline="How the UFC conquered Trump&#x27;s Washington" 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">Trump</a> have forged one of the most successful cultural alliances in modern politics, carrying mixed martial arts (MMA) from the fringe of American sports to a starring role in the country&#x27;s 250th anniversary.

What's in the Iran deal Trump says he's ready to sign

A diplomat involved in the talks walked Axios through the text.

World

The U.S.-Iran memorandum of understanding President <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Trump claims" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/06/11/trump-cancel-iran-strikes-deal-strait" data-vars-content-id="95002311-2415-4525-a440-0f66bddf38b9" data-vars-headline="What&#x27;s in the Iran deal Trump says he&#x27;s ready to sign" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/06/11/trump-cancel-iran-strikes-deal-strait" target="_self">Trump claims</a> will soon be signed calls for the Strait of Hormuz to reopen immediately without tolls and for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Iran" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/world/iran" data-vars-content-id="95002311-2415-4525-a440-0f66bddf38b9" data-vars-headline="What&#x27;s in the Iran deal Trump says he&#x27;s ready to sign" 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> to receive sanctions relief based on compliance, according to a diplomat from one of the mediating countries and a U.S. official. Why it matters: The MOU would extend the ceasefire for 60 days, including in Lebanon, during which time nuclear negotiations would be held. The text includes a framework for addressing Iran&#x27;s enriched uranium stockpile, though any action on Iran&#x27;s nuclear program would depend on a second, more detailed accord.

How data centers in space could become a reality

Google and Blue Origin join startups to launch extraterrestrial data centers.

Technology

Building data centers in space is more complicated than proponents might portray, but experts say it&#x27;s increasingly doable.Why it matters: With data center <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="protests" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/17/ai-backlash-polling-sentiment" data-vars-content-id="c503e988-49b2-4a6f-a614-ae46e8fbc061" data-vars-headline="How data centers in space could become a reality" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/17/ai-backlash-polling-sentiment" target="_self">protests</a> growing on earth, Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos and others have been eyeing the vastness of outer space as the next frontier.

SpaceX's arrival heralds a wave of new stock

A jump in stock issuance could tilt supply-demand dynamics that have quietly supported the market.

Business

SpaceX&#x27;s debut Friday is one of the biggest waves yet in a deluge of new stock that&#x27;s starting to hit the market. Why it matters: A jump in stock issuance could tilt supply-demand dynamics that have quietly supported the market for much of the past two decades.

Infectious disease threats test public health

As Trump officials step up efforts against New World screwworm, health experts warn funding cuts may weaken disease responses.

Health

U.S. health officials are deploying emergency measures against New World screwworm while monitoring other infectious disease risks ahead of the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="World Cup" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/06/11/world-cup-fifa-travel-immigration-woes" data-vars-content-id="8bd30b01-67b2-46f9-81c9-b12a9c02ee0b" data-vars-headline="Infectious disease threats test public health" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/06/11/world-cup-fifa-travel-immigration-woes" target="_self">World Cup</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="America250" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/06/01/america-250-freedom-250-celebrations" data-vars-content-id="8bd30b01-67b2-46f9-81c9-b12a9c02ee0b" data-vars-headline="Infectious disease threats test public health" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/06/01/america-250-freedom-250-celebrations" target="_self">America250</a> celebrations.Why it matters: Experts warn existing and proposed federal <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="health funding cuts" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/12/aca-medicaid-republicans-uninsured-elections" data-vars-content-id="8bd30b01-67b2-46f9-81c9-b12a9c02ee0b" data-vars-headline="Infectious disease threats test public health" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/12/aca-medicaid-republicans-uninsured-elections" target="_self">health funding cuts</a> may weaken disease surveillance and outbreak response as the U.S. prepares for major public events.

Key takeaways from Walmart Associates Week

Walmart leaders highlighted the company's plans to increase its use of AI and technology.

News

Walmart leaders highlighted the company&#x27;s plans to increase its use of AI and technology at Walmart Associates Week, its annual Northwest Arkansas gathering of employees from all over the world.🍌 A new scanning tool at self-checkout will recognize produce and prompt customers to confirm what it is and how many there are. Previously, customers had to scan a barcode or look up the item and then weigh it.

Bentoville Food Theater now booking

The offerings run through June 29 on all three stages and will be followed by a midsummer menu.

Food and Drink

The much-anticipated, Japanese-inspired <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Bentoville Food Theater" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2026/03/05/bentonville-food-theater-to-spotlight-diverse-cuisine" data-vars-content-id="9408c75c-f668-433b-bf5e-cd2c109a04bc" data-vars-headline="Bentoville Food Theater now booking" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2026/03/05/bentonville-food-theater-to-spotlight-diverse-cuisine" target="_self">Bentoville Food Theater</a> is now open in downtown Bentonville.State of play: For those not familiar, there are three &quot;stages&quot; where one can eat, meaning there are essentially three different restaurants inside.

Higher-ed counties lead Arkansas in AI usage

Washington County had an estimated 45.2% AI user share, the highest in Arkansas.

Education

Northwest Arkansas is the state&#x27;s top AI adoption hot spot, according to recent <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="county-level data" data-vars-click-url="https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/corporate-responsibility/topics/ai-economy-institute/reports/us-ai-adoption-2026-q1/?utm_source=newsletter&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=newsletter_axioslogin&amp;stream=top" data-vars-content-id="c478e9fc-363c-4855-8ab6-d019a5d996aa" data-vars-headline="Higher-ed counties lead Arkansas in AI usage" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/corporate-responsibility/topics/ai-economy-institute/reports/us-ai-adoption-2026-q1/?utm_source=newsletter&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=newsletter_axioslogin&amp;stream=top" target="_blank">county-level data</a> from Microsoft&#x27;s AI Economy Institute.Why it matters: Microsoft says <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="AI" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/technology/automation-and-ai" data-vars-content-id="c478e9fc-363c-4855-8ab6-d019a5d996aa" data-vars-headline="Higher-ed counties lead Arkansas in AI usage" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/technology/automation-and-ai" target="_self">AI</a> adoption is spreading quickly but unevenly, with higher use in metro areas, college towns and counties with more knowledge-based jobs. The divide could shape who benefits first from the next wave of workplace technology.

Arkansas agri community monitors screwworm return

The New World screwworm (NWS) threatens cattle, pets and wildlife.

A <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="flesh-eating pest" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/08/11/new-world-screwworms-myiasis-texas-usda-humans" data-vars-content-id="05309f9c-059a-4115-9372-882f7127bf14" data-vars-headline="Arkansas agri community monitors screwworm return" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/08/11/new-world-screwworms-myiasis-texas-usda-humans" target="_self">flesh-eating pest</a> eradicated from the U.S. decades ago is back, with several confirmed cases in Texas and New Mexico and federal officials racing to keep it from spreading in livestock.Why it matters: New World screwworm (NWS) threatens cattle, pets and wildlife by laying eggs in wounds, where larvae feed on living tissue.<ul><li><a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="USDA says" data-vars-click-url="https://www.aphis.usda.gov/news/agency-announcements/usda-continues-lead-coordinated-response-new-world-screwworm-new-case" data-vars-content-id="05309f9c-059a-4115-9372-882f7127bf14" data-vars-headline="Arkansas agri community monitors screwworm return" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.aphis.usda.gov/news/agency-announcements/usda-continues-lead-coordinated-response-new-world-screwworm-new-case" target="_blank">USDA says</a> it is not a food-safety issue, but a wider outbreak could disrupt cattle movement, add costs for producers and put more upward pressure on <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="beef prices" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/30/food-prices-summer-grilling-beef-chicken-turkey" data-vars-content-id="05309f9c-059a-4115-9372-882f7127bf14" data-vars-headline="Arkansas agri community monitors screwworm return" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/30/food-prices-summer-grilling-beef-chicken-turkey" target="_self">beef prices</a>.</li></ul>

Monday Munchies: Written by the Seasons in Bentonville

The Michelin-recommended Dallas restaurant has a new location.

A Michelin-recommended Dallas restaurant has a new location in downtown Bentonville.🍽️ The vibe: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Written by the Seasons" data-vars-click-url="https://www.writtenbytheseasons.com/" data-vars-content-id="de14b357-67bd-4c24-a66c-1d37163985e2" data-vars-headline="Monday Munchies: Written by the Seasons in Bentonville" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.writtenbytheseasons.com/" target="_blank">Written by the Seasons</a> is a dinner-only, upscale restaurant with a space in the same complex as also-newish <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Mezzaluna Pasteria &amp; Mozzarella Bar" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2025/03/24/mezzaluna-pasta-bentonville-monday-munchies" data-vars-content-id="de14b357-67bd-4c24-a66c-1d37163985e2" data-vars-headline="Monday Munchies: Written by the Seasons in Bentonville" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2025/03/24/mezzaluna-pasta-bentonville-monday-munchies" target="_self">Mezzaluna Pasteria &amp; Mozzarella Bar</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Wu Zhao" data-vars-click-url="https://zhaobentonville.com" data-vars-content-id="de14b357-67bd-4c24-a66c-1d37163985e2" data-vars-headline="Monday Munchies: Written by the Seasons in Bentonville" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://zhaobentonville.com" target="_blank">Wu Zhao</a>. I&#x27;m sensing a pattern.

Monday Munchies: Ice cream flight in Bentonville

Dumont Creamery and Café is serving up sweet treats.

Winter — I mean, summer and its scorching temperatures — is coming.🍨 State of play: That means you should keep cold treats in mind, like <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Dumont Creamery &amp; Café" data-vars-click-url="https://dumont.us" data-vars-content-id="cd446c3a-39a3-40d5-908c-5c395258b089" data-vars-headline="Monday Munchies: Ice cream flight in Bentonville" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://dumont.us" target="_blank">Dumont Creamery &amp; Café</a> in downtown Bentonville.

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.

NWA teachers get pay bumps

The new baseline for teacher salaries at NWA&#x27;s largest school districts is $55,000 — except for Bentonville.State of play: The school board-approved minimum teacher salary at Bentonville Public Schools is <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="$58,582 starting in the fall" data-vars-click-url="https://files-backend.assets.thrillshare.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/3173/Bentonville/0b2529bc-90e5-43cb-87d8-de09c3b2e08f/2026-2027-Licensed-Salary-Schedule.pdf?disposition=inline" data-vars-content-id="3f3f607b-a2f6-406d-8d5c-b28c46f73497" data-vars-headline="NWA teachers get pay bumps" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://files-backend.assets.thrillshare.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/3173/Bentonville/0b2529bc-90e5-43cb-87d8-de09c3b2e08f/2026-2027-Licensed-Salary-Schedule.pdf?disposition=inline" target="_blank">$58,582 starting in the fall</a>, up from $56,329 this year and just shy of $10,000 more than teachers started out making only four years ago.

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.

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:

Waltons go BIG on new STEM university campus

The initial campus will include about 422,000 square feet across three buildings

Members of the Walton family selected <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Bjarke Ingels Group" data-vars-click-url="https://big.dk/" data-vars-content-id="e90cc191-5482-4946-8679-dd02673a5e0d" data-vars-headline="Waltons go BIG on new STEM university campus" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://big.dk/" target="_blank">Bjarke Ingels Group</a> (BIG) to design the new STEM-focused university planned for the former Walmart Home Office site in Bentonville.Why it matters: The future university plans to offer flexible pathways to jobs in automation, logistics, biotech and computing — fields crucial to Northwest Arkansas&#x27; future.

Fayetteville sued over Swarm Aero NDA

Swarm announced its 80,000-square-foot advanced manufacturing center adjacent to Drake Field and said its Arkansas operations could produce thousands of UAVs.

A Fayetteville resident is asking a judge to force the city to look harder for a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="missing nondisclosure agreement" 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="b990ad52-a820-4c53-b308-dd7d05194d62" data-vars-headline="Fayetteville sued over Swarm Aero NDA" 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">missing nondisclosure agreement</a> tied to drone maker Swarm Aero.Why it matters: The lawsuit raises questions about whether the city has fully disclosed records tied to a major economic development project with a defense contractor dating back to November 2023.

Fayetteville to weigh data center regulations

Council is expected to consider tougher rules requiring Planning Commission approval on future data centers.

Fayetteville City Council is expected to consider next week tougher rules that would require Planning Commission approval on future data centers, the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Fayetteville Flyer reports" data-vars-click-url="https://fayettevilleflyer.com/2026/06/09/fayetteville-council-eyes-further-regulations-in-light-of-data-center-surge/" data-vars-content-id="548e198d-b3a7-4bf6-a5a6-ac401333f7f6" data-vars-headline="Fayetteville to weigh data center regulations" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://fayettevilleflyer.com/2026/06/09/fayetteville-council-eyes-further-regulations-in-light-of-data-center-surge/" target="_blank">Fayetteville Flyer reports</a>.Why it matters: Arkansas has made itself <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="attractive" data-vars-click-url="https://senate.arkansas.gov/senate-news/posts/2025/05/legislature-approves-package-of-economic-development-bills/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" data-vars-content-id="548e198d-b3a7-4bf6-a5a6-ac401333f7f6" data-vars-headline="Fayetteville to weigh data center regulations" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://senate.arkansas.gov/senate-news/posts/2025/05/legislature-approves-package-of-economic-development-bills/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank">attractive</a> to data centers through tax incentives and utility law changes, seeing them as <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="economic development" data-vars-click-url="https://www.arkansasedc.com/news-events/newsroom/detail/2026/01/12/avaio-digital-announces-new-large-scale-ai-ready-data-center-and-power-campus-in-little-rock--arkansas?utm_source=chatgpt.com" data-vars-content-id="548e198d-b3a7-4bf6-a5a6-ac401333f7f6" data-vars-headline="Fayetteville to weigh data center regulations" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.arkansasedc.com/news-events/newsroom/detail/2026/01/12/avaio-digital-announces-new-large-scale-ai-ready-data-center-and-power-campus-in-little-rock--arkansas?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank">economic development</a> prizes.<ul><li><a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Cities and counties" data-vars-click-url="https://www.thv11.com/article/news/local/little-rock-approves-data-center-ordinance/91-cebdc637-89c4-421f-a57a-67205038c61a" data-vars-content-id="548e198d-b3a7-4bf6-a5a6-ac401333f7f6" data-vars-headline="Fayetteville to weigh data center regulations" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.thv11.com/article/news/local/little-rock-approves-data-center-ordinance/91-cebdc637-89c4-421f-a57a-67205038c61a" target="_blank">Cities and counties</a> are meanwhile trying to protect utility customers, water supplies and local control.</li></ul>

Arkansas sees improvements in kids' well-being but still lags

Arkansas ranked No. 43 in the U.S. in the latest annual report.

Arkansas remains <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="near the bottom" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2025/06/09/arkansas-child-wellbeing-report" data-vars-content-id="b386b9df-0951-4b73-a9df-cb8af440e4f5" data-vars-headline="Arkansas sees improvements in kids&#x27; well-being but still lags" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2025/06/09/arkansas-child-wellbeing-report" target="_self">near the bottom</a> nationally for child well-being, with health outcomes driving some of the state&#x27;s worst marks in the 2026 Kids Count Data Book.The big picture: The annual report from the Annie E. Casey Foundation tracks 16 indicators across poverty, education, health and family conditions, all of which signal how prepared children are to learn, stay healthy and eventually enter the workforce.

Walmart announces disaster relief boost

Walmart is donating $10.8 million to an organization it works with on disaster relief efforts.Why it matters: The money will help Ohio-based Matthew 25: Ministries purchase seven new trailers where people affected by disaster can use the restroom and shower and have their laundry done. The organization currently has three vehicles that can offer such services, Ben Williams of Matthew 25: Ministries told Axios.

The Agenda: Fayetteville safety plans

The City Council meets at 5:30pm tonight.

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Fayetteville City Council" data-vars-click-url="https://fayettevillear.portal.civicclerk.com/event/1638/files/agenda/4730" data-vars-content-id="8147302f-bbb7-4eaa-a4c0-8e1d2b43ce33" data-vars-headline="The Agenda: Fayetteville safety plans" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://fayettevillear.portal.civicclerk.com/event/1638/files/agenda/4730" target="_blank">Fayetteville City Council</a> meets tonight and plans to vote on:🎒 Adopting the Safe Routes to School plan, which includes addressing all infrastructure gaps near schools, providing walking and biking programming at all schools and ensuring all schools have full crossing guard staff and strict speed enforcement. <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="See the full plan" data-vars-click-url="https://fayettevillear.portal.civicclerk.com/event/1638/files/attachment/26347" data-vars-content-id="8147302f-bbb7-4eaa-a4c0-8e1d2b43ce33" data-vars-headline="The Agenda: Fayetteville safety plans" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://fayettevillear.portal.civicclerk.com/event/1638/files/attachment/26347" target="_blank">See the full plan</a>.

Check your smoke detector

Fire-related fatalities are slightly up this year in Arkansas.

You might want to take a moment to make sure the smoke detectors in your home are working, have full batteries and don&#x27;t need to be replaced.Why it matters: Working smoke detectors can cut the risk of dying in a home fire by half, according to the Arkansas Division of Emergency Management. Only 7% of fire-related fatalities that have occurred in Arkansas this year were in structures with confirmed working smoke detectors.

Walmart shareholders to vote on AI and worker safety

The company's 2026 proxy statement outlines eight voting items

Walmart shareholders this week will vote on outside investor proposals focused on some of the retailer&#x27;s most politically and operationally sensitive issues.Why it matters: Walmart is one of the world&#x27;s largest employers, giving its policies global influence across labor, technology, supply chains and corporate governance.

Your weekend plans: Crystal Bridges, festivals

The Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art expansion opens to the public this weekend.

Things to Do

Have a great weekend, NWA.😎 <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Bentonville First Friday" data-vars-click-url="https://www.facebook.com/events/1434668158169181" data-vars-content-id="9fc86eb0-f1c1-4447-91cf-c944d2b72d75" data-vars-headline="Your weekend plans: Crystal Bridges, festivals" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.facebook.com/events/1434668158169181" target="_blank">Bentonville First Friday</a> — Enjoy live music and vendors at this free festival on the downtown square from 3-9pm today.

Crystal Bridges unveils major museum expansion

The museum has a 114,000-square-foot addition.

Nearly 15 years after Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art opened, the museum that put Bentonville on the map for arts and culture destinations has majorly expanded.Why it matters: The museum&#x27;s permanent collection has always been free to visit, and leaders and its architect say they wanted to bring in even more people with a 114,000-square-foot addition of galleries, learning space and room for public gatherings.

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

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.

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.

Walmart adds restaurant delivery

Some shoppers can now order Subway meals from their local Walmart.

Some shoppers can now order Subway meals from their local Walmart through Walmart&#x27;s website and app.Why it matters: The company wants to make it convenient for shoppers to order their groceries or other items alongside a prepared meal, Walmart eCommerce executives Greg Cathey and Tracy Poulliot told reporters on Thursday during Associates Week.

NWA wedding costs trail U.S. average

The national average cost of a wedding is $32,899.

Money

Wedding season is here, and so is the bill.💰 The big picture: The average wedding in NWA cost about $27,900 last year, lower than the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="national average" data-vars-click-url="https://wedding.report/action/wedding_statistics/view/market/id/00/idtype/s/location/United_States/" data-vars-content-id="26a68d6c-4468-4ce4-a424-4067d8c64bb8" data-vars-headline="NWA wedding costs trail U.S. average" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://wedding.report/action/wedding_statistics/view/market/id/00/idtype/s/location/United_States/" target="_blank">national average</a> of about $32,900, per wedding industry research firm <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="The Wedding Report" data-vars-click-url="https://wedding.report/action/wedding_statistics/view/market/id/22220/idtype/m/location/Fayetteville_Springdale_Rogers__AR_MO/" data-vars-content-id="26a68d6c-4468-4ce4-a424-4067d8c64bb8" data-vars-headline="NWA wedding costs trail U.S. average" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://wedding.report/action/wedding_statistics/view/market/id/22220/idtype/m/location/Fayetteville_Springdale_Rogers__AR_MO/" target="_blank">The Wedding Report</a>.

Washington Regional lays off staff

The health care system cited rising costs.

Washington Regional Medical System is eliminating 86 positions, citing &quot;financial pressures&quot; affecting health care systems state and nationwide, according to a news release.State of play: The positions are mostly in management and administrative support, Washington Regional spokesperson Brooke Morgan told Axios.

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.

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.

Arkansas' split-screen rankings reality

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

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.

Politics

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;

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