This winter, when you’re missing the heat and dreaming of sunshine again, the beach will be no-stops away from our local airport.

• How: Starting Nov. 17, flights from XNA will directly connect to the Punta Gorda Airport (PGD) twice a week. Allegiant, a Las-Vegas based low-cost carrier, expanded its services to 25 new cities and included XNA as a part of its 22-route expansion.
• Hot Deal: Special introductory one-way fares range from $39 to $59 if booked today (Aug. 11). 

Read more about the new XNA route HERE.

Last week, two local fundraisers raised more than $1mm in support of Arkansas Children's Northwest Hospital.

• Above and beyond: The Will Golf 4 Kids tournament and the Color of Hope Gala pledged to raise $5mm over five years in 2019. With $3.3mm raised in the first two years, they are well on their way to exceeding their goal.
• Gone golfing: The overwhelming generosity of NWA has Arkansas Children's Northwest feeling like they've made a hole in one. The donations will go directly to "pediatric cancer research and support services."

You can read more about the events and donations HERE.

Things are speeding up again in Springdale tonight with the third race of the Natural State Criterium Series.

• High hopes: The Tyson-sponsored cycling series, which debuted in 2017, is aimed at becoming a stop on "the national cycling calendar by 2023." From beginners to pros, this racing series is creating a fast-paced, fun, and friendly opportunity for cyclists to try something new.
• End in sight: The finish line is marked at Shiloh Square, with the first race set to begin at 5p. Tonight is third of a four-week series ending Aug. 18.

Learn more about the event and the "NASCAR of racing" HERE.

Summer evenings in Bella Vista just got a little more refreshing. If you've been looking for another place to bike for beers, look no further!

• Relax in the park: The Gear Garden is now open in Blowing Springs Park, and features an adult beverage from Bentonville Brewing Company. From Wed-Sun, this is one "off the trail" experience you should consider.
• All exclusive: A signature beer at the Gear Garden is the Trailhead Lager, which is offered at only a select locations throughout Bella Vista.

You can plan your visit to the Gear Garden HERE.

City U, a 375-unit multifamily project, is nearing completion in downtown Bentonville.

• The schematics: The project will place 29 buildings on a 9-acre plot just north of the Momentary, creating a neighborhood-like feel in Bentonville's Market District. The development includes community rooms, podium parking, patios, and other amenities for a "unique living experience".
• Intentional living: 30% of the available units will be offered as core housing to help individuals in a certain income bracket. The goal is to begin leasing to residents by early September.

Read how this development will impact the downtown area HERE.