Date: July 28, 2025
Happy Monday, Northwest Arkansas! 🎉
TOGETHER WITH H.G.D. Apparel Co
Kick off your week with the vibrant energy of NWA! We're spotlighting inspiring veteran entrepreneurs thriving through innovative accelerators, alongside delightful community festivals, school advancements, and thrilling sports buzz. Plus, dive into upcoming events, weather updates, and live music that keep our region lively and connected.
In today’s NWA Today:
🚨 Top Story: Northwest Arkansas Empowers Veterans with Business Accelerator Program
🌟 NWA Digest: Community Bites
🏪 Local Business: NWA’s Business Buzz
📅 Upcoming Events: Fayetteville, Springdale, Rogers, and Bentonville
☀️ Weather: NWA Forecast
⚾Sports Update: NWA Naturals Baseball
🎵 Live Music and Entertainment
Daily NWA Trivia: Before being called the "Natural State," what was Arkansas originally nicknamed due to its abundant wildlife? (Answer at the end of the newsletter)
Let’s dive in!
— Andrew E


Northwest Arkansas Empowers Veterans with Business Accelerator Program
Northwest Arkansas is empowering its veteran community through the Veteran-Owned Small Business Accelerator (VOSBA), a transformative program helping former service members launch and grow their enterprises. Ben Lowry, a Marine veteran and owner of Northwest Arkansas Sheet Metal, exemplifies this success, doubling his staff and revenue in two years with VOSBA's guidance. The free 12-week accelerator, a collaboration between the Venture Center and the Small Business Administration, provides tailored workshops on strategic planning, finances, and leadership, while connecting participants to federal contracts.
Supported by the Walton Family Foundation, the initiative leverages veterans' unique skills for economic impact, creating jobs and innovation in the region. Lowry's first federal contract highlights the program's potential, as he thrives in NWA's collaborative entrepreneurial scene. This effort celebrates veterans' resilience, offering them new purpose and contributing to a vibrant, inclusive local economy where military experience drives business excellence.

Ozark Folkways Tomato Festival Delights with Gardening Demos and Fun
The Ozark Folkways Tomato Festival in Winslow brought joy to families with vibrant activities celebrating local produce. Highlights included gardening demonstrations, a cooking competition, kids' crafts, live chainsaw art by Colt Larue, and music from Winslow Depot. Attendees explored artisan booths and enjoyed tastings, fostering community bonds and appreciation for NWA's agricultural heritage while promoting healthy eating.
Fayetteville School Board Approves Woodland Junior High Project
The Fayetteville School Board has greenlit additional funding for the Woodland Junior High expansion, ensuring timely progress on modern facilities. This development enhances educational spaces for students, promoting inclusive learning environments and community pride in NWA's commitment to youth success.
U of A vs Arkansas State Game Nears Sellout in Little Rock
Excitement builds as the University of Arkansas vs. Arkansas State football game approaches a sellout at War Memorial Stadium. This anticipated matchup unites fans from Fayetteville and beyond, promising thrilling action and community pride in NWA sports.


AT&T Invests in Arkansas Network Upgrades
AT&T has poured over $500 million into network enhancements across Arkansas, including NWA, improving connectivity for businesses and residents. This substantial investment boosts internet speeds, reliability, and communication in areas like Fayetteville, enabling local enterprises to innovate, expand, and connect more effectively with customers. Such upgrades support economic growth and exciting opportunities, highlighting AT&T's dedication to fostering a thriving, connected community in Northwest Arkansas.
Oak Steakhouse Opens in Rogers
Oak Steakhouse has fully opened on the rooftop of Hotel Avail in Rogers, creating an inviting atmosphere for diners with its elegant design and premium menu featuring high-quality steaks and sides. This new venue enhances NWA's hospitality scene, providing upscale dining options that attract residents and visitors alike. The opening creates jobs and contributes to the region's vibrant economy, showcasing the area's growing appeal as a culinary destination.

Fayetteville Fun
Terrific Tuesday Nights
Date & Time: July 29, 2025, 5:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Location: Botanical Garden of the Ozarks, 4703 N Crossover Rd, Fayetteville, AR
Description: Free family-friendly summer series allowing families to experience the 86-acre botanical garden on beautiful summer evenings, enjoy strolling through themed gardens, visiting the Butterfly House, and picnicking in the garden after regular hours.
Springdale Spotlight
Springdale Farmers' Market
Date & Time: July 29, 2025, 7:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Location: The Jones Center, 922 E. Emma Avenue, Springdale, AR
Description: A community market featuring local produce, honey, eggs, baked goods, and crafts, ideal for family outings.
Runway Bike Park
Date & Time: Daily, July 28-31, 2025, sunrise to sunset
Location: The Jones Center, Springdale, AR
Description: Free 2.75-acre bike park open to all ages (helmets required).
Yoga at The Winery
Date & Time: July 29, 2025, various times
Location: Sassafras Springs Vineyard & Winery, 6461 East Guy Terry Road, Springdale, AR
Description: Relaxing yoga sessions in a scenic vineyard setting, suitable for all levels.
Rogers Rundown
Agricultural Media Summit
Date & Time: July 28-29, 2025, various times
Location: Rogers, AR
Description: Professional gathering for agricultural media experts with sessions, networking, and exhibits focused on industry trends, suitable for community members interested in agriculture and media.
Bentonville Buzz
Summer Camp: Girls STEAM
Date & Time: July 28-31, 2025, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Location: Scott Family Amazeum, 1009 Museum Way, Bentonville, AR
Description: Hands-on summer camp focused on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math) activities designed to inspire and educate girls in a fun, interactive environment.
Bentonville In Motion Series - Yoga
Date & Time: July 28-30, 2025, various times (recurring)
Location: Various locations, Bentonville, AR
Description: Community yoga sessions promoting wellness and movement for all ages.
KAWS: FAMILY Exhibition
Date & Time: Ongoing through July 28, 2025, various times
Location: Crystal Bridges Museum, 600 Museum Way, Bentonville, AR
Description: Major solo exhibition debut featuring KAWS' drawings, paintings, sculptures, altered advertisements, and product collaborations, exploring complex family dynamics through the artist's iconic characters, perfect for families interested in contemporary art.
Crystal Bridges Museum - Free Exhibits
Date & Time: Daily, July 28-31, 2025, museum hours
Location: Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, 600 Museum Way, Bentonville, AR
Description: World-class museum with free general admission featuring Yayoi Kusama Flowers on Orchard Trail, Foundations of American Art Gallery, The Art of Whole Health, and James Turrell's Skyspace, including 134 acres of Ozark forest trails with outdoor sculptures perfect for family exploration.
Eureka Springs
5th Anniversary Raven Show
Date & Time: July 28-30, 2025, various times (ongoing)
Location: Gotahold Brewing, 409 W Van Buren, Eureka Springs, AR
Description: Collection of raven-themed art by local artists, family-friendly viewing.
Eureka Springs Farmers Market
Date & Time: July 29, 2025, 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Location: Pine Mountain Village, 2075 E. Van Buren St., Eureka Springs, AR
Description: Weekly farmers market featuring locally grown produce, farm-fresh items, baked goods, and arts & crafts, where families can explore local products while enjoying Eureka Springs' unique mountain community atmosphere.
Farmington
Summer Horse Camp
Date & Time: July 28-31, 2025, various times
Location: Silver Sage Equestrian, Farmington, AR
Description: Summer camp for kids ages 6-12 focused on horse riding, care, and activities in a safe, engaging environment.
Planning Commission Meeting
Date & Time: July 28, 2025, 6:00 PM
Location: City Hall, Farmington, AR
Description: Community meeting to discuss local planning and development matters.
Other Local Events
Boy Scouts White River Canoe Race
Date & Time: July 28-30, 2025, all day
Location: White River, starting near Jacksonport, AR (surrounding area)
Description: Annual multi-day canoe race for Boy Scout teams covering 120 miles along the scenic White River, promoting teamwork, outdoor skills, and adventure for youth and families.

☀️ Weather: NWA Forecast
Monday, July 28: High 92°F / Low 73°F | Sunny ☀️ | Precipitation 10% | Wind SW 9 mph
Tuesday, July 29: High 94°F / Low 74°F | Partly Cloudy ☁️ | Precipitation 20% | Wind S 10 mph
Wednesday, July 30: High 95°F / Low 75°F | Mostly Sunny ☀️ | Precipitation 15% | Wind SSW 8 mph


The NWA Naturals are delivering exciting baseball action in their season, with recent games showcasing strong hitting and pitching that have kept fans cheering. The team continues to build momentum with community support. Upcoming games:
NWA Naturals vs. Tulsa Drillers: July 29, 7:05 PM, Arvest Ballpark
NWA Naturals vs. Tulsa Drillers: July 30, 7:05 PM, Arvest Ballpark
NWA Naturals vs. Tulsa Drillers: July 31, 7:05 PM, Arvest Ballpark

Northwest Arkansas Music Events
July 29, 2025
Meteor OPEN MIC
Time: 6:30 PM
Location: Meteor Guitar Gallery, Bentonville
Description: Open mic night featuring community musicians in an intimate setting. Free event welcoming all musical genres and skill levels.
July 30, 2025
Idle Valley with Placeholders & FRAWG ($)
Time: 8:00 PM
Location: George's Majestic Lounge, Fayetteville
Description: Rock performance featuring Idle Valley with supporting acts Placeholders and FRAWG at this iconic Fayetteville music venue.
Jesus "Aguaje" Ramos ($)
Time: 8:00 PM
Location: JJ's Live, Fayetteville
Description: Latin and world music performance bringing vibrant rhythms and authentic Cuban musical traditions to Fayetteville.
July 31, 2025
Volbeat with Halestorm and The Ghost Inside ($)
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Walmart AMP, Rogers
Description: Major metal and hard rock concert featuring Danish metal band Volbeat headlining with American hard rock band Halestorm and metalcore act The Ghost Inside.
Samantha Crain with Kalyn Fay ($)
Time: 8:00 PM
Location: George's Majestic Lounge, Fayetteville
Description: Folk and indie rock performance featuring singer-songwriter Samantha Crain with opening act Kalyn Fay in an intimate venue setting.
COLLIDE ($)
Time: 2:00 PM
Location: The Momentary, Bentonville
Description: Electronic music event and DJ performance bringing cutting-edge beats and dance music to The Momentary's innovative space.
Full Band Open Mic Night
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: Prairie Street Live, Fayetteville
Description: Community open mic night welcoming full band performances, providing a platform for local musicians to showcase their talents.
Live Jazz Night with Backbeat Jazz
Time: 8:30 PM
Location: Backroom, Springdale
Description: Free jazz performance featuring Backbeat Jazz, offering an evening of sophisticated musical entertainment in an intimate setting.
Jeff Tatum and The Palomino Moon Band
Time: 8:00 PM
Location: Cherokee Casino (Seven), West Siloam Springs, OK
Description: Free country music performance featuring Jeff Tatum and The Palomino Moon Band at the casino venue.
August 2025
August 1, 2025
Happy Hour: King Chicken ($)
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: George's Majestic Lounge, Fayetteville
Description: Funk and soul happy hour performance featuring King Chicken, perfect for starting the weekend with energetic grooves.
Bellwether Sirens, Liquid Courage, Not The Sun ($)
Time: 9:00 PM
Location: George's Majestic Lounge, Fayetteville
Description: Rock showcase featuring three bands: Bellwether Sirens, Liquid Courage, and Not The Sun in an evening of diverse rock performances.
Straight Tequila Night ($)
Time: 8:00 PM
Location: JJ's Live, Fayetteville
Description: Country tribute performance celebrating classic country music with authentic covers and high-energy entertainment.
The Mixtapes with The Phase ($)
Time: 7:30 PM
Location: Railyard Live, Rogers
Description: 90s tribute show featuring The Mixtapes with opening act The Phase, celebrating the pop and rock hits of the 1990s.
Vintage
Time: 9:00 PM
Location: Cherokee Casino (Seven), West Siloam Springs, OK
Description: Free rock and pop performance featuring Vintage at the casino venue, offering classic rock entertainment.
Courtyard Sessions with NWA Jazz Society
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: The Momentary, Bentonville
Description: Free jazz performance and community event featuring the NWA Jazz Society in The Momentary's outdoor courtyard setting.
August 2, 2025
Second Time Around ($)
Time: 8:30 PM
Location: George's Majestic Lounge, Fayetteville
Description: Rock performance featuring Second Time Around at this beloved Fayetteville music venue.
Her Set Her Sound Presents: Her Set Live ($)
Time: 8:00 PM
Location: Railyard Live, Rogers
Description: DJ and electronic music festival event featuring female artists and celebrating women in electronic music.
Creed - Summer of '99 Tour ($)
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Thunder Ridge Nature Arena, Ridgedale, MO
Description: Major rock and alternative performance featuring Creed on their Summer of '99 Tour at this outdoor amphitheater venue.
Stars
Time: 9:00 PM
Location: Cherokee Casino (Seven), West Siloam Springs, OK
Description: Free country and rock performance featuring Stars at the casino venue.
NWA TRIVIA ANSWER:
The Bear State
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