The Springdale City Council agreed to accept a grant that will go toward restructuring downtown Springdale. 

• For the present: The original master plan was set in motion in 2015. The council determined that the plan needs a revamp due to societal changes. The new plan includes bringing new housing to the area and dividing downtown into districts for convenience. 
• Solving problems: With the city growing and expanding outside of downtown as well, there is concern about an increase in traffic. The city is working with the Arkansas Department of Transportation to come up with the best solution. 

Read more about the Council decision HERE. 

The United States Department of Agriculture gave two, technically three, farms in Northwest Arkansas the GroupGAP (Good Agricultural Practices) certificate, making them the first two in the state. 

• The recipients: The Center for Arkansas Farms and Food (CAFF), which is a University of Arkansas program, McGarrah Farms, and by extension the Rivercrest Orchard received the certificate. 
• Collab: The GAP certificate is a United States Department of Agriculture certification that allows farms and other organizations to expand the market in which they sell their produce. The GroupGap program enables small-scale farmers, food hubs, etc. to share certification costs. 

Read the full Talk Business & Politics story HERE. 

Welcome to Friday! Here's some fun things happening this weekend:

• Neon: Crystal Bridges is hosting a fun night of creativity and glowing art tonight.
• Singin': Live music doesn't stop around here, no matter the weather.
• Red and White: The Razorbacks Men's Basketball team has a scrimmage on Sunday at Barnhill.
• Listen: Kick back in Turnbow Park for Brews & Tunes tomorrow.
• Warm up: Gather 'round a bonfire and roast some marshmallows at Shiloh Square.
• Arts & crafts: It's craft fair season, and there are plenty to choose from.
• More books: The Bentonville Public Library is having its last pop up book sale of the year tomorrow.
• Bike: Square 2 Square was rescheduled to THIS Saturday.

Bye until Monday!

Get ready to party with beardedgoat, because they’re ready for you. 

• Discounts: To kick off the fall, beardedgoat is offering everyone 15% off their entire purchase when they go to the store on the Fayetteville Square.
• Party: A few months ago beardedgoat moved its Flagship Store + Design Offices to the Square and have since partnered with local woodworkers and a muralist to make it cool and comfy inside. So go save some money by checking out the space! Grab a cold one while you’re there. Try things on. Make it a whole thing. 

Learn more about beardedgoat HERE.