Good morning, Fort Smith.

Fort Smith residents have enjoyed upgrades at Tilles Park, which include new playground equipment, improved walking trails, and a renovated basketball court — officials say community feedback has been very positive.

Joel Manby—who has over 25 years of CEO experience—will serve as the keynote speaker at the sold-out Excellence in Family and Small Business Awards hosted by UA – Fort Smith’s Center for Economic Development.

The event will take place at 6 p.m. on Oct. 20 at the Bakery District.

The University of Arkansas at Fort Smith Department of Music and Theatre will host its 19th annual Octubafest Sunday in the Reynolds Room of the Smith-Pendergraft Campus Center, where low brass students and adult performers will join a play-along rehearsal at 1:30 p.m. and conclude with a free public concert at 5 p.m.—with pizza and soft drinks provided.

Fort Smith Southside senior linebacker Ethan Dunn helped lead the Mavericks to a strong season start, with coach Kim Dameron praising his fast, smart plays and hard hits.

He recorded 42 solo tackles and 11 assists in recent games and built a tougher defense—giving his team an edge in hard-fought matches.

DNA Discoveries Workshop

5:30-7:30 p.m. — Fort Smith Public Library (Main Library) — Free entry — Explore the fascinating world of genetic genealogy in this informative series of classes.

Book Lover's Club

10 AM – 12 PM — Fort Smith Public Library (Main Library) — Free entry — Share your latest reads in a welcoming book community.

Survivors’ Challenge 10K/5K

2-5 p.m. — Reynolds Cancer Support House — Fundraising event — Celebrate 34 years of community support while running for a cause.

Arts On Main — Scare & Share

11 a.m. – 6 p.m. — Arts On Main — Free entry — Dress up in your Halloween costume for candy and stickers in a festive atmosphere.

Red Hat Enterprise Linux Systems Admin I Training

Nov 3-7 — Fort Smith Adult Education Center — $2250 — Gain essential skills in Linux system administration through hands-on labs and expert instruction.

Kaia Larsen Book Signing: Superhero Sister

4-6 p.m. — Fort Smith Public Library — Cash preferred — Discover the art of manifestation with local author and photojournalist Kaia Larsen at her book signing event.