Fort Smith’s historic role as a gateway for transportation returns to the spotlight with the ambitious Slackwater Harbor project in Van Buren.

 

This $18.16 million development, supported by a major federal grant, aims to build a modern harbor with the ability to dock up to eight barges simultaneously and significantly expand freight capacity along the Arkansas River.

 

Construction is set to begin in April 2026 and wrap up by early 2027, promising new jobs and industrial opportunities for the region.

 

The project draws on a tradition—dating back to the Butterfield Overland Mail and steamboat era—of using the river as a lifeline for commerce and connection.

 

Once complete, Slackwater Harbor is poised to reduce congestion, make shipping more efficient, and strengthen the River Valley’s place in the nation’s trade network.

Fort Smith stood at a vital crossroads long before modern technology, serving as a frontier hub in the era before telephones or railroads.

 

In 1858, the daring Butterfield Overland Mail route—founded by John Butterfield—brought national attention by promising mail delivery from St. Louis to San Francisco in just 25 days.

 

The 2,800-mile route crossed wild terrain, with Fort Smith as a critical launching point into Indian Territory.

 

Steamboats and stagecoaches made this community a bustling logistics center, connecting East and West for the first time.

 

Though the Butterfield Trail operated for only three years, its path shaped future telegraph lines, railroads, and highways—laying the groundwork for regional growth in Arkansas and the River Valley.

 

Today, efforts to designate the Butterfield Overland Trail as a National Historic Trail highlight Fort Smith’s lasting legacy as a gateway of connection and progress.

The U.S. defense sector has achieved a new milestone, as the Republic of Singapore confirmed plans to buy additional U.S.-made F-35 fighter jets.

 

Although these advanced aircraft are assembled at other locations, Fort Smith’s aerospace and defense industry plays a pivotal role by producing vital components, as well as offering maintenance training and logistics support for the F-35 program.

 

Fort Smith’s manufacturing expertise is now firmly connected to global defense contracts, helping to drive local job growth and educational initiatives worth billions.

 

Colleges in the area are preparing the next generation of engineers and technicians, ensuring the River Valley remains a key contributor to the worldwide defense landscape.

 

With every F-35 in the skies, Fort Smith’s impact is felt across the globe.

Farmers across Arkansas are raising concerns as extreme heat, drought, and soaring costs threaten their ability to keep operating.

 

Many are being forced to make tough choices, such as cutting back on planting or reducing herd sizes to conserve dwindling feed and water supplies.

 

Some are even taking out loans just to weather this difficult period, facing a convergence of rising expenses and relentless weather challenges unseen in years past.

 

Farm organizations are urging state and federal leaders to provide emergency relief, including credits for fuel and fertilizer, and assistance for temporary irrigation needs.

 

Legislators have recognized the crisis and promised to look for solutions.

 

The River Valley’s economy, deeply rooted in agriculture, is feeling the ripple effects, as local businesses tied to farming also feel the strain.

 

Continued community backing and responsive policymaking will be vital for Arkansas agriculture’s future stability.

Arkansas agriculture is set for major growth after Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders secured a multi-billion-dollar trade agreement with Taiwan.

 

The deal significantly expands exports of rice, soybeans, and poultry—staples of the state’s farming economy.

 

This renewed commitment deepens a decades-long partnership and guarantees larger purchases from Taiwan in the coming years.

 

Farmers and communities across Arkansas, especially in the River Valley, are expected to see greater demand and stronger prices for their crops.

 

Transportation and logistics sectors in Van Buren and Fort Smith could also profit as more exports flow through the region.

 

Beyond agriculture, this agreement highlights Arkansas’s rising profile in international trade by building vital economic bridges with a key U.S. ally.

 

For local producers, it signals new opportunity and stability in a challenging economic climate.

Construction will begin this October on a $1.45 million solar canopy at 215 Garrison Avenue in downtown Fort Smith.

 

This 340-kilowatt structure will provide shade for the Fort Smith Farmers Market, benefiting both vendors and visitors.

 

Standing 14 feet tall and spanning two rows of parking, the canopy is funded by the city’s general fund, with a 30% federal tax credit helping offset costs.

 

Market operations every Saturday from March through December will see minimal disruption during construction.

 

With 70 vendors, the market remains a cornerstone of community activity.

 

Once completed, the solar canopy is projected to generate about 500,000 kilowatt-hours annually.

 

The electricity will be sold back to the grid, supporting maintenance and insurance.

 

Partnering with Entegrity and OG&E, this project is among several new solar initiatives, reflecting Fort Smith’s commitment to sustainability and savings.

Looking for pumpkin picking options close to home?  

Asbury Church Pumpkin Patch in Greenwood offers a community-driven atmosphere, plenty of photo spots, and supports local ministry projects throughout October.  

Blackjack Blooms & Berries in Mansfield is the nearest genuine farm experience south of Greenwood, featuring classic patch charm and seasonal backdrops for photos.  

For bigger adventures, Rivercrest Orchard Fall Festival in Fayetteville and Farmland Adventures in Springdale both provide a full “farm festival” experience—think corn mazes, hayrides, petting zoos, and fun for all ages.  

If you’re short on time, Sharum’s Garden Center in Fort Smith makes it easy to snag pumpkins, gourds, or mums for decorating right in town—no driving needed.  

Note: Wild Things Farm in Pocola is currently marked closed online—double-check before visiting.

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.

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.

As autumn nears, locals are encouraged to show their pride by joining the Great Arkansas Cleanup, which runs from September 6 to October 31.

 

This annual effort, organized by Keep Arkansas Beautiful, invites residents to tackle litter through community events, promoting both environmental stewardship and neighborhood spirit.

 

Volunteers receive key supplies—like gloves, safety vests, and trash bags—to keep cleanup safe and easy.

 

Last year, almost 23,000 Arkansans pitched in, removing 636 tons of trash from roads and parks across every county, creating an impressive $5.4 million economic impact.

 

Taking part delivers more than just cleaner streets; it’s a statement of pride and a promise to preserve Arkansas’s natural charm.

 

Register your cleanup online and get support to organize an event in your neighborhood—every effort matters.

 

Join in, help keep Arkansas beautiful, and create a greener, brighter future for all.

The Farmers' Almanac predicts the 2025–2026 winter will be defined by “Chill, Snow, Repeat,” forecasting dramatic swings in temperatures and widespread wintry conditions across the U.S.

 

Residents in the Northern Plains, Great Lakes, and New England should brace for repeated cold snaps, with the most intense chills likely in mid-January and mid-February.

 

The Northwest will also see deep winter cold, while snow lovers in the Northeast and Midwest can expect frequent snowstorms and picturesque landscapes.

 

Mountainous regions in the Pacific Northwest and Mid-Atlantic are set for heavy snow.

 

In contrast, the Southeast, South Central, and Southwest will likely experience wetter-than-average conditions, with Texas and nearby states facing cold rain and sporadic freezing precipitation.

 

Though the Almanac’s forecasts have mixed accuracy, locals should prepare for a highly variable and impactful winter ahead.

Van Buren has adopted a new Parks and Recreation Master Plan, reaffirming its focus on improving local amenities for all residents.

 

Mayor Joe Hurst praised months of public input that helped shape the vision, with surveys and meetings revealing overwhelming community engagement.

 

Hiking topped residents’ interests, while exercise and time outdoors are major motivators for park visits.

 

Citizens expressed strong interest in a modern community center, featuring a gym, indoor courts, and an aquatics facility—an ambitious 61,755-square-foot design that includes a pool, splash pad, classrooms, event space, and sports amenities, estimated at $34.2 million.

 

Recent local upgrades include resurfaced basketball courts and plans for the city’s first dog park, made possible by city funds and Rotary Club support.

 

Developed with MAHG Architecture Inc., the plan builds on prior efforts and stresses flexibility to meet evolving needs, aiming to ensure accessible recreation and a vibrant community life.

Van Buren, Arkansas was struck by a confirmed EF-1 tornado early Friday, causing widespread destruction and forcing many residents from their homes.

 

The National Weather Service reported the twister touched down at approximately 7:46 AM, quickly tearing through neighborhoods and damaging essential infrastructure.

 

At least 30 residential units managed by the Van Buren Housing Authority were rendered unlivable. Strategic Realty and Fort Smith Housing are moving swiftly to provide emergency shelter.

 

Displaced families are also receiving support through Section 8 emergency vouchers.

 

The First Baptist Church at 1121 Main Street is now serving as an emergency shelter, thanks to coordinated efforts from the American Red Cross and local volunteers.

 

Community members are already rallying to help clear debris. Only minor injuries were reported, and no fatalities, highlighting the community’s resilience as recovery begins.

Fort Smith is embracing a greener future through bold moves in sustainable agriculture and environmental projects.

 

The University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture will launch its first ARegenerate Conference at Kay Rogers Park on November 8-9, 2024, providing farmers with practical tools on regenerative practices like cover cropping and rotational grazing.

 

A recent $14.5 million EPA grant will power innovative local projects including expanded electric vehicle charging, alleyway revitalization, e-bike incentives, and solar installations for public housing—part of a major push for cleaner energy and lower emissions.

 

The Arkansas Climate League’s $160,000 prize funds solar panels at Antioch for Youth and Family, lowering costs for this essential food pantry while highlighting renewable energy’s local impact.

 

The Boys & Girls Club is growing its gardening and nutrition program, teaching kids about healthy eating and sustainable practices to cultivate future environmental leaders.

 

Fort Smith’s united efforts signal a strong commitment to environmental stewardship and community health.