Your trusted source for local Fort Smith, AR news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Food banks in Fort Smith and the River Valley provide critical resources to those in need, with various locations offering services throughout the week. Many pantries require photo identification and proof of residence, with some operating by appointment only. The River Valley Regional Food Bank and other local organizations aim to alleviate food insecurity in the community.
The University of Arkansas–Fort Smith invested over $5.7 million in new robotics and automation systems for its Advanced Manufacturing Lab. This upgrade, funded by HIRED grants, enhances hands-on training for students, preparing them for modern manufacturing careers. Future installations will incorporate advanced Industry 4.0 technologies.
The Class 6A, 5A, 4A, 3A, and 2A state volleyball tournaments are underway in Arkansas, with multiple teams competing in various rounds. Championship games are scheduled for November 1 at the Hot Springs Convention Center. Notable matches include Bentonville facing Conway and Marion taking on Van Buren in the semifinals.
The Arkansas Lottery announced the winning numbers for various draw games on October 28, 2025, including Mega Millions and Cash 3. Players can check payouts and previous drawings through official channels. Lottery tickets are available in stores and online via the Jackpocket app.
The Arkansas Department of Human Services warns that ongoing federal government shutdowns may disrupt Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. Residents are urged to prepare for potential delays by utilizing local food resources and checking eligibility for alternative assistance programs.
The Fort Smith Board of Directors will review over $240 million in long-range Capital Improvement Plans for city infrastructure and parks on October 28. A proposed ordinance aims to enhance transparency by requiring public study sessions for any project costing $500,000 or more. The meeting will focus on various departmental plans and the new policy to improve fiscal oversight.
The Arkansas Lottery announced winning numbers for various draw games on October 27, 2025, including Powerball and Cash 3. Players can check their payouts and previous drawings through the official channels. Tickets are available at local retailers and via the Jackpocket app.
Fort Smith city officials face a funding crisis as installation costs for new slides at Parrot Island Waterpark reach nearly $2.8 million, over four times the original estimate. With only $650,000 left in the budget, Director George Catsavis suggests selling the slides to mitigate losses. Rising construction costs and an inaccurate initial estimate contribute to the project's financial challenges.
The University of Arkansas–Fort Smith will host its Fall 2025 All-Majors Career Fair on Oct. 29, connecting students and alumni with employers across various industries. The event aims to enhance students' professional networking opportunities and provide access to jobs and internships.
The median home price in Sebastian County dropped to $289,125 in September, down 2% from August. Listings remained steady, with homes averaging 65 days on the market, slightly longer than the national median of 62 days. New listings increased by 2.2% compared to the previous year.