Good morning, Fort Smith.

John Anthony Cole, 48, who is serving a lengthy sentence in Arizona for murder now faces charges in Fort Smith for the October 2nd, 2021 killing of 35-year-old Jeremiah Hawthorne—he waived his right to an attorney, posted $500,000 bail, and must enter a plea by June 25 with a trial set for July 14.

Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders signed the Arkansas ACCESS law on March 18 to overhaul college admissions, scholarships, and funding so that students can be better prepared for the workforce.

The law gives colleges more flexibility to offer varied educational options beyond the traditional four-year degree.

Today the Fort Smith Board of Directors will vote on proposals for buying water line maintenance equipment over $727K, making a $1.17M payment for Phoenix Avenue street overlays, and purchasing new police vehicles — plans that also include agreements for roof repairs and road work. The board will hold an executive session to consider appointments to city boards and key positions — steps meant to support public safety and infrastructure improvements.

City officials announced that Fort Smith will hold a special election on May 13 to decide how the city uses its sales tax revenue for sewer repairs and other public projects — early voting starts May 6 at the Sebastian County Courthouse.

The ballot will ask voters to approve extending current tax measures and to let the city issue bonds up to $360 million for sewer work — residents are urged to participate.

On February 21, the Fort Smith Board of Directors approved an ordinance to add three measures to the May 13 special election ballot that will reauthorize and reallocate the city’s 2% sales tax and issue bonds up to $360 million for sewer system improvements—mandated by a federal Consent Decree. Early voting begins on May 6 and citizens will vote on these measures which do not include new taxes or tax increases.

State Police and NHTSA warned drivers to stay sober ahead of April 20 — when increased marijuana use is expected to slow reaction times and impair lane control — because such effects make driving dangerous.

Officials urged anyone feeling impaired to let a sober driver take the wheel — protecting all on the road.

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.

The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit in Concert

4-8 p.m. — TempleLive — Enchanting performance — Experience epic film scores with a live orchestra and special guests.

Storytime at Miller Branch Library

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

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone in Concert

7:00-7:30 p.m. — ArcBest Corporation Performing Arts Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience the magic as the Fort Smith Symphony plays the iconic score live while the film screens.

Kenny Wayne Shepherd Concert

8:00-9:30 PM — TempleLive — Ticket prices starting at $52 — Enjoy an electrifying performance by blues rock virtuoso Kenny Wayne Shepherd.

Black Violin Concert

7-9:30 p.m. — TempleLive — Tickets from $32 — Experience an electrifying performance blending classical and hip-hop styles with Black Violin.

Jeremy Camp Concert

7:00 – 8:30 p.m. — TempleLive — Ticket prices from $29 — Enjoy an uplifting night with contemporary Christian artist Jeremy Camp performing live.