Good morning, Rogers.

Fayetteville’s food drive to fight child hunger began Wednesday with nonperishable donations welcome at City Hall, police headquarters or any fire station.

Meanwhile, Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield launched the Take Good Care Food Drive statewide—local drop-offs in Rogers at 4602 W. Walnut St. are accepted through November 14.

Owners of Allsopp & Chapple announced Hazel’s Public House will open in the former Big Whiskey’s space—bringing a new dining option locally—while details on the opening date are expected soon.

The Alice Walton School of Medicine (AWSOM) held its grand opening on Wednesday when school leaders gathered for a ribbon-cutting at 9 a.m. at the medical education building on the Crystal Bridges campus near downtown Bentonville.

The nonprofit program, which began classes in July with 48 students and teaches whole health principles, is not open to the public.

The weather for trick-or-treating on Friday, Oct.

31 will be good—temperatures will be in the 60s in the afternoon before dropping into the 50s by evening as a few clouds roll in but no rain is expected.

Arkansas leaders from both parties pushed for action as SNAP benefits end Nov 1 amid a nearly month-long government shutdown, putting thousands at risk of food insecurity.

Benton County lawmakers raised $11,500 for the local food bank, which is expanding mobile pantries and buying $100,000 in turkeys — a move aimed at easing the crisis — as community organizations brace for rising demand.

On Tuesday at Rogers High School, muddy conditions challenged runners in the 6A-West Conference Cross Country Championships as Fayetteville’s Alan Gallardo-Lopez won the boys’ race in 15:54.21 and Bentonville secured the team title with 26 points.

Har-Ber’s sophomore Hattie Ray Beshears won the girls’ race in 17:55.35 while Rogers captured the girls’ team title with 36 points—marking a fiercely competitive meet.

Bella Rustina Modern Vintage Market

9 a.m.-5 p.m. — Rogers Convention Center — $10 for adults, free for kids 18 and under — Explore a myriad of vintage and handmade treasures while enjoying festive holiday cheer.

Fayetteville Holiday Event

5-7 p.m. — Northwest Arkansas Mall — General Admission 40% off — Enjoy a festive gathering at the local mall with various ticket options available.

An Evening with Ree Drummond

6-7:30 p.m. — Arend Arts Center — Ticket includes a signed cookbook — Engage in a delightful conversation about cooking and family with The Pioneer Woman and her daughter.

Mountie Bowling 5K

9 a.m.–1 p.m. — Rogers High School — Registration required — Experience a fun family-friendly event while supporting the community.

Young Professional Summit

1-4:30 p.m. — Hotel Avail Rogers, Tapestry Collection by Hilton — Check website for ticket info — A half-day event to inspire and equip young professionals in Northwest Arkansas.