Never Forget 9/11

On this day, we pause to honor the lives lost, the heroes who answered the call, and the resilience of our nation. September 11, 2001, forever changed us—but it also united us. Today, we remember, reflect, and stand together.

"The strongest people are not those who show strength in front of us, but those who win battles we know nothing about."

The sudden closure of TempleLive Fort Smith has left a noticeable void in the city’s entertainment scene.

Owner Lance Beaty originally planned to host several final concerts but was forced to act quickly due to mounting financial pressures from the dominance of online ticketing giants and large artist agencies.

All TempleLive venue websites — including those in Cleveland, Peoria, and Wichita — have gone offline, marking a clear end for the historic downtown space.

The site, a renovated 1928 Masonic Temple with a 900-seat theater, had been a cultural hub since its 2017 reopening.

Fans seeking refunds should check with their original ticket vendor.

This closure reflects wider challenges faced by independent venues struggling to compete in a rapidly consolidating industry.

Downtown JunkFest returns to Van Buren’s Historic Main Street in 2025, promising a lively weekend of unique finds and community spirit.

The festivities unfold on Saturday, September 13 from 9 AM to 5 PM and Sunday, September 14 from 9 AM to 4 PM.

Attendees can explore a bustling outdoor market filled with antiques, reclaimed treasures, vintage clothing, farmhouse décor, handmade creations, and seasonal plants.

Food trucks, live music, and a bustling crowd create an atmosphere perfect for shoppers and families alike.

Organized by the Old Town Merchants Association, this event invites both vendors and visitors to enjoy a curated showcase of originality and craftsmanship—vendors bring their own setup, as amenities are limited.

From passionate collectors to casual browsers, JunkFest is a memorable opportunity to support local artists and experience Van Buren’s historic charm.

Weekend Events Summary: Fort Smith & Van Buren

Saturday, Sept 13

• Fort Smith Farmers Market (7:00 a.m.–Noon, Garrison Ave.) – Peak-season produce, crafts, and live music.
• Fort Smith Boys Home Car, Truck & Jeep Show (8:00 a.m.–Noon, Ben Geren Storm Shelter) – Show & shine, food, silent auction, and awards.
• Van Buren Library Health & Wellness Fair (10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.) – Free screenings and community resources.
• A&M Railroad: Van Buren → Winslow Excursion (11:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m., Old Frisco Depot) – Scenic 3-hour Boston Mountains roundtrip with trestles and Winslow Tunnel.
• Lake Fort Smith: “Are You Prepared for Your Hike?” (1:00–1:30 p.m., Lake Fort Smith State Park) – Quick trail-readiness talk.
• Downtown JunkFest – Day 1 (9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., Main St., Van Buren) – Huge outdoor market with vintage, handmade goods, and food trucks.
• The Moanin’ Frogs (7:00 p.m., King Opera House, Van Buren) – Saxophone sextet blending jazz, pop, and classical favorites.
• The Jesus Tent Revival (7:00–9:15 p.m., 3700 Kelley Hwy, Fort Smith) – Community revival event (also Fri 9/12 & Sun 9/14).

Sunday, Sept 14

• Downtown JunkFest – Day 2 (10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m., Main St., Van Buren) – Second day of the outdoor vintage & maker market.

Quick Links for Events this weekend:

Fort Smith Farmers Market | Boys Home Car, Truck & Jeep Show | Van Buren Library Health Fair | A&M Railroad Excursion | Lake Fort Smith Hike Talk | Downtown JunkFest | The Moanin’ Frogs Concert | The Jesus Tent Revival

VA Virtual Care: Heart Health at Home

Did you know you can manage your heart health from home? The VA’s new virtual care program makes it easier for Veterans to stay connected with their doctors, track progress, and get support—without extra trips to the clinic.

Staying on top of heart health doesn’t always mean driving to the clinic or waiting in crowded waiting rooms. The VA is making it easier than ever for Veterans to connect with doctors and specialists through virtual care—right from home.

Heart disease is one of the leading health concerns for Veterans, but many of the risks can be managed with regular check-ins, medication adjustments, and lifestyle support. That’s where virtual care comes in. Through secure video visits, Veterans can talk with their providers, share health updates, and even get their prescriptions adjusted without leaving the house.

One Veteran featured in the VA’s story said that being able to check in virtually not only saved him time but also gave him peace of mind. Instead of waiting weeks for an appointment, he was able to connect quickly with his cardiology team and keep track of his progress in real time.

The VA is also using remote monitoring tools to help. For example, blood pressure cuffs and other devices can securely send readings to care teams. This allows providers to step in quickly if they notice concerning changes—sometimes before a Veteran even feels symptoms.

For many, especially those who live in rural areas like ours, virtual care removes barriers and makes it easier to stay consistent with treatment. And the best part? It keeps Veterans healthier and more independent while reducing unnecessary trips to the hospital.

If you or someone you know could benefit, ask your VA provider about virtual care options. It’s a powerful way to stay connected, stay supported, and keep your heart strong.

Composting transforms everyday yard waste and kitchen scraps into nutrient-rich soil through natural decomposition, guided by bacteria and fungi.

This process reduces landfill waste, while making garden soil healthier and more productive.

Mixing “greens” like grass clippings and veggie scraps with “browns” such as dry leaves or cardboard keeps your pile well-balanced.

Aim for about three parts carbon-rich browns to one part nitrogen-heavy greens for best results.

Turn and moisten your pile regularly—it should feel like a wrung sponge—to speed decomposition and avoid foul odors.

Finished compost looks dark and smells earthy, safely boosting your garden’s health without drawing pests.

Compact spaces can benefit from vermicomposting, where worms convert waste indoors into top-notch soil.

Whichever method you choose, composting helps you grow thriving plants and supports a greener community.