Daily
Fort Smith
Saturday, May 16th, 2026
Good morning, Fort Smith. Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 16th of May.
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Visitors can explore Fort Smith Historic Site today, where reconstructed courtrooms and jail cells reveal how westward expansion, federal justice and Native American history shaped the city. The site is open Tuesday-Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 3rd and Garland (steps from local shops). Southwest Times Record
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ The University of Arkansas - Fort Smith has launched the state’s first Bachelor of Science in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering. Students like Arik Schrouf will use new robotics and machinery at the Advanced Manufacturing and Workforce Development Center to get hands-on training for industry jobs. University of Arkansas Fort Smith
- ➤ UAFS Chancellor Dr. Terisa Riley congratulated spring graduates and shared campus updates on May 15, 2026. Riley said the university will repair the narrow Parking Lot B North Entrance and review the final provost candidate’s visit scheduled for next week — details on employee insurance changes were provided internally. University of Arkansas Fort Smith
- ➤ Fort Smith native Parry Phanouvong balanced his graphic design classes at UAFS with his role as a command post controller at Ebbing Air National Guard Base for the past decade. He will continue serving for five more years before transitioning to a full-time graphic design career here. 4029 News
- ➤ UAFS hosts summer camps starting in June for students in kindergarten through 12th grade, offering sessions in volleyball, basketball, cheer and band at the Stubblefield Center and Breedlove Auditorium. The camps run through August with prices starting at $50 and provide hands-on training from skilled coaches and faculty. University of Arkansas Fort Smith
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Residents in Conway and Pulaski County are debating proposed data centers as experts warn that increased water and electricity usage may raise utility costs, property taxes, and local temperatures. University professors say that while few new jobs will be added, environmental health risks could affect 53,000 people living nearby. 5 News
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ On Friday morning, law enforcement in Sebastian County held a memorial ceremony at 10 a.m. at the courthouse to honor fallen officers, and a similar tribute took place at the Benton County Courthouse at 11 a.m. where roses were given to families & multiple agencies attended. 4029 News
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Benton’s Rexie Crane shined in her second game of the 5A state softball tournament at Greene County Tech High in Paragould on May 15, 2026 + she helped her team compete strongly against Greenwood. River Valley Democrat-Gazette
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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.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
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Reveal the authorAbout Daily Fort Smith
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