Good morning, Fort Smith.

Fort Smith Boys Home will open a new 5,000-square-foot building on Zero Street on July 2 that will double its capacity for foster children — the facility has a computer room, theater, lounge, medical room, and bedrooms with bunk beds and closets — and it is only 1,500 feet from the original home.

Residents in the River Valley will celebrate Independence Day with fireworks, live music, food trucks, and kids’ activities at Fort Smith’s Harry E.

Kelley Park from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Additional celebrations in Van Buren and Greenwood will feature family fun and a large fireworks show with a 16-inch mortar shell—highlighted by Greenwood Mayor Doug Kinslow— on July 4.

An inmate on ICE hold at Sebastian County Detention Center, identified as 48-year-old Juan Salazar-Lopez and arrested on May 5 for allegedly driving while intoxicated, was found unresponsive in his cell on June 19 and pronounced dead at a local hospital—both the Sebastian County Sheriff’s Office and Arkansas State Police are investigating his death.

Dr. Alexandra Zacharella—known as Dr. Z—has served at UAFS since 2007 and taught music with passion while directing bands that inspire students.

She also led the faculty senate and continues to share a love of music that drives community performances.

Fort Smith couple Allyn and Janice Donaubauer donated $75,000 to the University of Ozarks to support batting cages at the new Thomas and Frances Wilson Athletic Complex that opened this past academic year.

The batting facility has been named the Donaubauer Launch Pad — a tribute to their long-time support of the university.

The Board of Directors agreed Tuesday to begin a study on whether the city's 39,268 mechanical water meters can be replaced — a move estimated to cost $30 million and reduce a 35% water loss.

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.

Digital Infrared Photography Workshop

1-4 p.m. — Greg Disch Photography Classroom — $795 — Learn the art of surreal infrared photography in a hands-on workshop experience.

Business After-Hours Networking Event

4-6 p.m. — The Call in Crawford & Sebastian — Free entry — Network with local professionals while enjoying light refreshments in a casual atmosphere.

Watercolor Workshop: Fun Food!

10:30 a.m. — Fort Smith Public Library (Main Library) — Free entry — Enhance your watercolor skills by painting delightful sweet treats and more.