Four elementary schools in NWA have been reading a lot this year, and Arkansas has recognized them for the culture of reading they are fostering in their students.

• The reading list: The R.I.S.E. awards are issued by a branch of the Arkansas Department of Education, recognizing schools that have their students reading on grade level. These schools have also been cooperating with other organizations in their communities to cultivate reading outside of the classroom.
• The lucky few: A total of 6 schools received the award, and 4 were located in NWA - Eastside Elem. School, Greenland Elem. School, Jerry "Pop" Williams Elem. School, and Northside Elem.

Read more about the R.I.S.E. awards and the recipients of these awards HERE.

Not the happiest of news for your Thursday, but important nonetheless. COVID-19 cases may be beginning to spike due to a new variant of the virus. NWA health care professionals have seen a 200% increase in cases since the beginning of the month.

• The approach: Only 33% of the state is vaccinated, and while this is an encouraging number, it may not be enough to stop virus from spreading.
• Fully prepared: Medical centers in the area are fully prepared for a potential surge, due to learnings from last year. However, this wave of the virus should not be taken lightly.

Still not vaccinated, but interested? You can receive a generous dose HERE.

In Fayetteville tonight, the 25th Annual Gulley Park Concert Series is setting the tempo for Thursday summer nights. With great bands and good food, there's no better place to start your weekend early.

• The first act: Jukeboxx is starting off the series at 7pm tonight with a little bit of funk, a little bit of R&B, and some Top 40 hits. Five more bands will perform in the coming weeks.
• All are welcome: These events are free and open to the public, so bring your friends, family, and pets along for the fun. You can pack a picnic, or there will also be vendors set up around the park.

Find out more about the local concert series HERE.

NWA is pedaling its way to the top of the national, and even worldwide, leaderboard of bike-friendly cities. In recent months, NWA businesses and residents have been spinning some wheels.

• Across the board: Fayetteville, Springdale, Bentonville, and Siloam Springs each ranked in the top three in the National Bike Month Challenge. With a combined 202,396 miles, they logged enough distance to pedal across the U.S. and back 33 times.
• Too many to count: The region is quickly becoming a destination for riders across the world. NWA is hosting a few summits throughout the year for bikers of all ages and demographics, and businesses in the region are making it the norm to bike to work rather than drive.

Gears are shifting in NWA. Find out more about how the area is welcoming cycling as a part its culture HERE.

On the south side of Fayetteville, New Beginnings is building shelters for people experiencing homelessness in NWA. The community is hoping to welcome its first residents in July.

• A helping hand: Homelessness in NWA has seen significant shifts over the last ten years. New Beginnings estimated that there are nearly 400 people experiencing homelessness in the region.
• Tiny homes: The project is not just about housing. Each shelter is similar to a basic tiny home, and will include a bed, an outlet, and heating and air conditioning. New Beginnings is hoping to create a community of neighbors who are more than just people who live near each other.

Learn more about the New Beginnings community and how you can be a part of the project HERE.