In order to keep pace with the ever-growing population in NWA, the Bentonville School District has decided to rezone elementary schools, a change that will go into effect Fall of 2022.

• Bentonville has over 18,000 students across 13 elementary schools. Wednesday (5/5) was the first of two community forums to discuss the rezoning plan with parents before the board votes in June.
• Quote: “Bentonville doesn’t seem to be slowing down in terms of city population,” Bentonville Communications Director Leslee Wright said. “...our goal this evening, to let people know what’s coming so they can prepare their families if they might be affected by it."

Read the full article HERE. The next public input meeting will be held May 12 at 5:30p at the Bentonville West High School Performing Arts Center.

The newly formed Fayetteville Steering Committee held its first meeting this week to discuss the city’s four-point economic recovery and vitality plan.

• Plan to plan: The steering committee, chosen by Mayor Lioneld Jordan, is made up of 20+ community leaders, artists, business owners and city council members. The goal is to develop a 5 year recovery plan that can be presented to City Council this fall.
• The plan has four main focus points: workforce development, equality and inclusion, small businesses and economic growth.

Public input sessions, focus groups, surveys and other public engagement opportunities are open for discussion. Find out how you can get involved HERE.

Walmart announced yesterday that it and MeMD are more than just friends. The two changed their relationship status, as MeMD has entered into an agreement to be acquired by Walmart Health.

• If you're sick stay home: This acquisition will allow Walmart Health to provide access to virtual care across the nation from its offices to your bedroom. This includes urgent, behavioral, and primary care, complementing its in-person health centers.
• This new marriage reinforces Walmart’s commitment to provide integrated health care that leverages data and technology to improve engagement, health equity, and outcomes.

You can read more and find all the details of the new arrangement HERE.

Truth is, you should probably consult your mom before you make any plans this weekend. While you're out and about picking up those last-minute flowers for her, be sure to take some time for yourself. Here's what we're prescribing:

• Mamas don't let your babies grow up to be cowboys: On Saturday, the demolition derby will take place at the Rodeo of the Ozarks. Get tickets here.
• Party for a cause: Head to the AMP for Happy Hour in the newly renovated Choctaw Plaza. It's NWA's favorite patio party - proceeds go to support the Ghost Light Recovery Fund.
• Bella Vista Farmer's Market: The Bella Vista Farmer's Market will return starting Sunday, May 9, in the parking lot of Village Center.
• Find your treasure: Join Lost & Found's Backyard Flea Market for a one-day outdoor shopping event in Downtown Springdale. It's Mother's Day approved!
• The Little Craft Show: Head to Downtown Springdale on May 8th for an outdoor celebration filled with local and regional makers, live music, food, drinks, and art!
• First Friday: It's that time of the year again, block parties every First Friday in Downtown Bentonville!
• Movin' & Groovin': Ten local bands are set to perform at a benefit concert and one-day music festival called CydStock this Saturday, May 8 at Prairie Street Live in Fayetteville.
• Mother's Day: Don't forget to call your mothers on Sunday or even better, take them out to a nice brunch at one of these locations.

Have a great weekend and see you Monday!