Good morning, Fort Smith.

Officials reported that the Arkansas Scholarship Lottery’s revenue dropped to $45.8 million last month from $48.5 million in May 2024, while funds raised for college scholarships fell from $9.5 million to $8.9 million.

Lottery director Mike Smith said scratch-off and draw-game sales also declined—though they began to level out later in May.

University of Arkansas leaders held an event in Fort Smith on Wednesday where they shared plans to boost the six-year graduation rate to 80 and increase research funding while adding $200 million in scholarship aid through the Land of Opportunity Scholarship.

Chancellor Charles Robinson said the plan will improve student success, research, and employee support statewide — starting here in Fort Smith.

Benton County mother Sophy Vega said her husband, Juan Martinez, was detained at the Fort Smith immigration office during a routine I-130 interview in early April when an old deportation order was discovered, and a judge later denied their request to reopen his case so he will face deportation to Honduras. Vega, who is pregnant and raising three children, plans to file waivers through the U.S. Embassy in Honduras — her family now depends on his return — as she fights to bring him home.

Fort Smith officials announced closures on several streets for sewer main repairs that will run from June 13 through July 12 and affect areas like Waco St, S 34th, and Louisville St. The repairs are scheduled during set hours such as 6:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.—residents should plan alternate routes.

Summer Smash Music Festival

5:30-11:59 p.m. — Majestic Fort Smith — Cost info not specified — Celebrate REHAB's 25th Anniversary with live music across genres hosted by Peter Dante.

The Hangout Summer Classic Pickleball Tournament

Jun 20-22 — The Hangout Fitness and Sports — Registration required — A competitive weekend for pickleball enthusiasts in Fort Smith.

Monster Truck Insanity Tour

7:30-9 p.m. — Harper Stadium — Ticket info available — Experience the thrill of monster trucks tearing up the arena.

On-Site Tour of Cornerstone Caregiving

9 AM - 7 PM — Cornerstone Caregiving — Free entry — Explore senior living excellence with gourmet meals and award-winning care.

Central Mall Card Show

10 a.m. - 7 p.m. (Jun 26) & 12 - 5 p.m. (Jun 27-29) — Central Mall — Free entry — Discover collectible cards and sports memorabilia at this exciting showcase.

Arkansas Junior Amateur Championship

June 30th - July 2nd — Hardscrabble Golf Course — Entry required ASGA membership — Compete in a 54-hole stroke play championship for junior golfers aged 12-18.