Daily
Fort Smith
Thursday, April 30th, 2026
Good morning, Fort Smith. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 30th of April.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Budweiser Clydesdales hitch will appear at Chaffee Crossing on Saturday, May 2 from 1 to 3 p.m. as part of Belle Point Beverages’ 80th anniversary celebration; individual horses will be seen at Choctaw Casino Pocola today & at Cherokee Casino Roland on Friday, May 1. Southwest Times Record
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ The Bass Pro Shops Outpost opened on April 29 in Fort Smith, drawing large crowds of families eager to explore the new outdoor store. Gift card giveaways, an aquarium centerpiece, and outdoor gear displays featured during the grand opening event. Southwest Times Record
- ➤ ArcBest, a Fort Smith-based transportation company, reported a $1 million loss for Q1 (first quarter) as its revenue rose to nearly $999 million. CEO Seth Runser said winter weather and higher fuel costs have challenged the firm while it plans new tech projects like ArcBest View and AI route optimization. River Valley Democrat-Gazette
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ UAFS will award nearly 650 degrees on Saturday, May 16 at the Stubblefield Center — with ceremonies starting at 10 a.m. for 206 graduates, 1 p.m. for 209 graduates, and 4 p.m. for 234 graduates. Campus parking is available except near the center and ceremonies will be livestreamed. University of Arkansas Fort Smith
- ➤ The UAFS Day of Giving raised $55,764 from over 400 donors to support 26 projects including scholarships, research and student services. The two-day event ran from 8 a.m. April 28 to 4:08 p.m. April 29 and featured matching gifts + a community mural and birthday celebration. University of Arkansas Fort Smith
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ The Environmental Protection Agency is giving Arkansas $838,000 to help local communities upgrade stormwater and sewer systems. The grant, part of an $80 million federal plan, will be split between fiscal years 2025 and 2026 to reduce pollution from untreated sewage. River Valley Democrat-Gazette
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Mercy Health Foundation Fort Smith reached a $41 million goal for Phase 1 of its oncology expansion, aided by a $2 million challenge grant from the Mabee Foundation. The center, featuring 50,000 sqft of clinical space, will double patient capacity and is set to finish by July 2027. River Valley Democrat-Gazette
- ➤ Baptist Health announced it will close six clinics and discontinue four inpatient services in Fort Smith over the next 60 days, affecting about 150 employees. Brandi Stewart will serve as interim president as the hospital restructures to focus on essential care while retaining services like the emergency department. River Valley Democrat-Gazette
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ The Magazine Rattlers and Lady Rattlers won the 1A-4 District Track Meet on Tuesday at Clarksville as Phoebe Hopper led with wins in the 800- and 1,600-meter runs, with the team sweeping relays and winning five of six individual races + five of six field events for a 242-point finish. River Valley Democrat-Gazette
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Brooke White Band Live Performance
9 PM - 12 AM — 906 Cocktail and Cigar Lounge — Check with venue for admission info — Enjoy the energetic sounds of Fort Smith’s own female-fronted powerhouse rock band.
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Larry B. & Hazel Duo Show
6-9 p.m. — 906 Cocktail and Cigar Lounge — Cover charge applicable — Enjoy an evening of old skool jams and versatile duets from the talented Larry B and Hazel.
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Mark & The Groove Diggers Live
8 p.m. — 906 Cocktail and Cigar Lounge — Check for costs — Enjoy classic Rock, Blues, and Country from a diverse variety band with deep local roots.
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Luau 5K, 10K, & Half Marathon
1:30-5:30 p.m. — Fort Smith, AR — Registration required — Dash through the scenic streets of Fort Smith while embracing a festive luau spirit.
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Eric Matthews Band Live Performance
8 PM - 12 AM — 906 Cocktail and Cigar Lounge — Check the local listings for ticket prices — Experience an evening of high-quality blues as the Eric Mathews Band keeps the blues alive.
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