Good morning, Fort Smith.

Students at UA Fort Smith started classes on Monday with expanded campus police managing traffic and crosswalk safety, while Waldron Schools also began and Lavaca Schools resume classes today—ensuring safe crossings as the academic year kicks off.

City officials report that recent storms damaged the Lake Fort Smith Water Treatment Plant and knocked out power, so the facility is now running on generator power — OG&E is working to restore full power while voluntary water conservation measures remain in effect.

Health experts say that despite the popularity of specialty drinks, plain water remains ideal for routine hydration during extreme heat, with electrolyte drinks needed only after prolonged exercise; current research shows that claims that alkaline water offers extra benefits are unsupported and many such drinks add sugars + calories.

Mercy Fort Smith expanded healthcare services with two new specialty clinics at Mercy Tower West today — one for cardiology and one for oncology.

The clinics bring experienced physicians to offer expanded heart and cancer care for River Valley patients.