Good morning, Springdale.

Two Bentonville chefs — Matthew Cooper of Conifer and Rafael Rios of Yeyo's El Alma de Mexico — were announced on Wednesday as finalists for the James Beard Awards' Best Chef South category.

The Northwest Arkansas Council will host an education roundtable on April 23 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Fayetteville Town Center to discuss how colleges prepare talent and support the regional workforce and economic growth.

The panel includes leaders from the University of Central Arkansas, Northwest Arkansas Community College and the University of Arkansas with moderator Roby Brock and an introduction by Nelson Peacock; registration is required by April 18 for this free event with lunch provided.

Tomorrow, the 36th annual Ozark Mountain Bike Festival will be held at Devil’s Den State Park with group rides on Monument Trails, skill clinics for all riders, and family-friendly events such as a ladies ride and kids skill clinic.

Competitions including the Big Splash Contest and bike toss will take place before festivities conclude Saturday night with a cookout—Sunday will feature a trail run and group ride at Lake Fort Smith State Park.

Freshman Blaine Van Hilsen tossed a two-hitter to lead Springdale Har-Ber to a 2-0 win over Bentonville in a 6A-West Conference baseball game at Wildcat Field on March 3 — his strong pitching kept the opposing team scoreless throughout the contest.

Centerton resident Kevin Campbell will compete in three divisions at the World Axe Throwing Championship that begins today in Appleton, Wisconsin.

He started axe throwing in 2019 and practices at Anvil Axe Co. in Neosho with three other qualified throwers as he aims for his first win.

Annual Member Crawfish Boil

3-8 p.m. — The Jones Center — Registration required — Savor a crawfish feast while engaging in vital community updates and networking opportunities.

Grupo Legítimo and Invasores de Nuevo León Concert

8-11 p.m. — Springdale Civic Center — Tickets available — Experience a night of vibrant performances and unforgettable music from popular artists.

Battle for the Paddle Charity Classic

7 AM – 4 PM — Springdale Recreation Center — $55 — Participate in a fun pickleball tournament while supporting local charities and community initiatives.

Regional NH3 Expo

6:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. — The Jones Center — $65 entry — Enhance your ammonia refrigeration skills with hands-on training and expert sessions.

Earth Day Garden Market

10 a.m. - 5 p.m. — Botanical Garden of the Ozarks — Free entry — Celebrate Earth Day with local vendors, live music, and family-friendly activities at this enchanting garden festival.

Airetech Corporation Open House

8 AM – 4 PM — Airetech Corporation — Free entry — Explore the latest in technology and innovation with hands-on experiences and expert insights.

Demo Derby

3:30 a.m. — Rodeo of the Ozarks — Affordable tickets — Experience the thrilling excitement of a live Demo Derby event.