Good morning, Springdale.

Brunchfest raised funds for summer activities for youths at The Centers on June 14 at Rusty Tractor Vineyard — ticket holders voted for local favorites and the funds will support recreational supplies for school-aged youths this summer.

Farmington man Sam Perroni hopes to expand his backyard baseball tournament nationwide to raise $1 million for Alzheimer’s research in honor of his late wife.

He will use volunteers and ambassadors to help start tournaments across the country—his event has drawn strong community support for five years and will be held on Aug 16—17.

On July 4, the Walmart AMP will host the Symphony of Northwest Arkansas with Paul Haas conducting a concert and fireworks show for families at 5079 W.

Northgate Road in Rogers. Gates will open at 7 p.m. and music will start at 8 p.m. — ticket prices range from $4 to $27, with lawn tickets increasing to $6 on the day of the event.

The Compass Report showed that four Arkansas metro areas had growth in Q1 2025 with rises in nonfarm jobs in manufacturing and construction—Central Arkansas gained about 5,700 jobs, Fort Smith nearly 1,900, and Northwest Arkansas around 1,800.

The report also found that consumer spending remained cautious with a slight rise in unemployment—Jonesboro recorded modest gains and a lower overall grade.

Two ballot campaigns are seeking to add direct democracy measures to the November ballot as groups work to change Arkansas' petition process.

The League of Women Voters has started collecting signatures while Protect AR Rights awaits attorney general approval—each group proposing different language standards—amid new laws aimed at regulating petition efforts.

Springdale fire officials warn residents to use caution with fireworks this Fourth of July weekend — adults must supervise children and protect pets from loud noises.

Capt. Justin Pinkley stressed that soaking used fireworks after use helps prevent burns, house fires and injuries — a simple step that keeps celebrations safe.

Programs in Northwest Arkansas are expanding mental health support for police, firefighters and EMTs—efforts that build on years of work to help first responders handle daily stresses.