Good morning, Fort Smith.

Sebastian County firefighters worked to control a grass fire that started just before 1 p.m. Wednesday afternoon in Jenny Lind—caused when high winds knocked trees into powerlines—and four volunteer fire departments helped fight the blaze; officials said the fire is now under control with no major damage or injuries.

Fort Smith police arrested Marvin Davis on March 18 for the first-degree murder of 65-year-old Dorothy Edmonds after witnesses linked him to the crime and evidence was found in his belongings; he is held on a $250,000 bond and will face court on March 26 at 8:30 a.m.

More than half the students at the University of Arkansas – Fort Smith are first generation, and a nearly 30-member First-Generation Student Success Committee holds monthly events to share resources on and off campus.

The committee, formed in 2018, supports both traditional and non-traditional students so they can complete their studies.

Fort Smith Mayor George McGill delivered his 2025 State of the City address on March 17 at the Reynolds Room at UAFS—highlighting the city’s strengths in people, growth, and opportunity.

UA-Fort Smith Chancellor Dr. Terisa Riley welcomed the audience to the event.

City officials announced that Phoenix Ave between Towson Ave and Jenny Lind Road will be closed from Friday, March 21 at 6:00 p.m. until Monday, March 24 at 6:00 a.m. for new railroad crossing panels.

Drivers should use detours (look for marked signs) and plan for extra travel time (if delays occur).

A street closure has been approved for the alley between Spradling and Clarendon from Albert Pike to N 43rd Street in Fort Smith— the closure will be in effect today through March 21.

On March 18, the Fort Smith City Board of Directors voted four to two to keep the 2024 and 2025 budgets unchanged by rejecting a plan to shift administrative costs to the general fund for water and sewer bond debt, amid concerns over budget complexity and financial stability.

City officials said they may revisit funding methods later to avoid rate hikes (as explained by the CFO and a former director).

Paint and Sip Night

6:00-8:30 p.m. — Prohibition — Check ticketing for pricing — Enjoy a creative evening of painting while sipping your favorite drinks.

Fort Smith Marathon

7 a.m. | Historic Downtown Fort Smith | Registration fees apply | Experience a stunning race through charming neighborhoods and scenic trails.

Creed Fisher Live Performance

7-9:30 p.m. — Sphinx Club at TempleLive — Tickets available — Experience the soulful melodies of Creed Fisher as he captivates with his latest album's heartfelt tracks.

Family Storytime at Miller Branch

10-11 a.m. — Fort Smith Public Library (Miller Branch) — Free entry — Enjoy stories, songs, and crafts in a fun environment for children and caregivers.

Big Head Todd & The Monsters

7-8:30 p.m. — Majestic Fort Smith — 18+ event — Enjoy an evening of rock music from Big Head Todd & The Monsters in a vibrant venue.

Bags at The Bakery: Cornhole Night

6:30-10:30 p.m. — The Bakery District — Cash payouts available — Play cornhole in competitive, intermediate, and backyard divisions in a lively atmosphere.

1st Choice 'He is Risen' Walk + 5K for Life

9 AM – 2 PM — Ben Geren Regional Park — Registration fees vary — Participate in a chip-timed 5K to support families in crisis.