Good morning, Fayetteville.

Arkansas-based songwriter Melissa Carper will host a fundraiser called Non-Profit Picknic at Prairie Street Live in Fayetteville on Saturday, Sept.

20 to fund her nonprofit Natural State of Being—an initiative to build a tiny home community for individuals experiencing homelessness. The event will feature performances by Carper, Bonnie Montgomery, Chucky Waggs, and Sophia Clark and will begin around 6 p.m.

Special prosecutor David Ethredge did not file charges against Kermit Acosta in the July Lavaca shooting that killed Brad Jones—Washington County Chief Deputy Prosecutor Denis Dean explained that Arkansas’ stand your ground law allows deadly force when there is an imminent threat to life and the Jones family is planning a wrongful death suit.

Renowned Dutch artist Leon Keer finished two new murals in downtown Fayetteville as part of an $84,000 public art project.

One mural on the library parking deck uses augmented reality — showing toy cars tumbling, while the other at the Town Center parking deck shows a vending machine with emoji-like figures.

The Arkansas Research Alliance gave $1.8 million to the University of Arkansas to help boost local economic growth as part of an $8 million NSF E-CORE grant.

University leaders said they will use the funds for needs finding workshops, commercialization retreats and policy changes to turn research into real products and opportunities—growing STEM job pathways.

U of A alumni Jim Nokes and his wife Glennis set up a $100,000 scholarship endowment to help students in all 75 counties get aid plus mentoring and career guidance through the Land of Opportunity Scholarship campaign.

Their gift shows a strong commitment to expanding education opportunities in Arkansas.

A working paper from the U of A Department of Education Reform finds that each extra year of school boosts earnings in Arkansas by 7.7% with women earning 8.9% more per year.

The study shows a college degree adds about $1.1 million in lifetime earnings and supports efforts to expand access to education—especially for women.

The Arkansas Enduro Series will return to Fayetteville this Labor Day weekend with the Fayetteville Enduro at Kessler Mountain Regional Park, featuring up to eight bike racing stages on 20 miles of trails and practice runs available the day before.

Registration opened in June on a first-come, first-served basis and the race will offer aid stations, professional timing, and an awards ceremony–all organized with local partners.

Niko Moon Live Concert

8:00-9:30 p.m. — Ozark Music Hall — $20 all-in tickets — Celebrate the venue renaming with an exciting performance by Niko Moon and Brooke Lee.

Railyard Live Concert Series: Reggae Fest Featuring Rochelle Bradshaw & Hypnotion

7-10 p.m. — Railyard Live at Butterfield Stage — Ticket info not provided — Experience the unique reggae fusion sounds of Rochelle Bradshaw & Hypnotion with captivating rhythms and powerful vocals.

American Aquarium Live Performance

7-9:30 p.m. — George's Majestic Lounge — Ticket prices vary — Experience the heartfelt sounds of American Aquarium in a vibrant venue.

Junkin' Market Days NWA

1 PM – 5 PM — Washington County Fairgrounds — Admission varies — Explore a curated market featuring unique products from small businesses in a fun shopping atmosphere.

Maker Faire NWA

10 a.m. - 4 p.m. — Fayetteville Public Library — Free entry — Celebrate makers and innovators at this family-friendly showcase of creativity and resourcefulness.

9th Annual International Festival

12-6 p.m. — Botanical Garden of the Ozarks — Complimentary tickets available — Celebrate diverse cultures with food, performances, and crafts at this community festival.

Tyler Hubbard Live

7-9:30 p.m. — Ozark Music Hall — All ages welcome — Experience the sounds of Tyler Hubbard as he takes the stage for a night of country hits.

Joe Nichols Live Concert

7-9:30 p.m. — Ozark Music Hall — All ages welcome — Enjoy an evening with country music star Joe Nichols in a lively atmosphere.

Avatar: The Last Airbender in Concert

7-10 p.m. — Walton Arts Center — Tickets required — Experience a live orchestral performance paired with a special recap of the beloved animated series.

The Plot In You Concert

6-8:30 p.m. — Ozark Music Hall — Ticket prices range from $58 to $122 — Catch The Plot In You live for an unforgettable musical evening.