Daily
Fort Smith
Sunday, October 12th, 2025
Good morning, Fort Smith. Here's your local news at a glance for Sunday, the 12th of October.
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Murder & Mayhem is a 25-year tradition fundraiser in Fort Smith that lets adults explore the city's haunted past through drinks, ghost stories and history. The event is held annually (bringing a unique twist to local heritage) as part of its community fundraising efforts. River Valley Democrat-Gazette
- ➤ The Original Blues Brothers Band will perform a free Halloween concert at 9 p.m. Oct. 31 at Lee Creek Tavern inside Cherokee Casino — the band includes key members from the Blues Brothers movies. The event is free for adults 21 and older and is expected to energize local audiences. River Valley Democrat-Gazette
- ➤ Fayetteville and Fort Smith libraries are hosting literary events throughout October including author talks, story times, and a pumpkin decorating contest — while Arts On Main will host an opening reception for three new exhibits to engage local visitors. These events offer residents creative opportunities to explore arts and literature. River Valley Democrat-Gazette
- ➤ On Saturday, the Van Buren community experienced a Civil War reenactment at the Drennen-Scott Historic Site that recreated the 1862 Raid of Van Buren when Union troops occupied the town. Volunteers and students led live artillery demonstrations using blanks — linking local history with personal family ties — as reenactors honored the area's past. 5 News
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Emily Lynch, a graduate of ATU-Ozark's cardiac sonography program, turned a setback into a win when a dropped job offer led her to accept a position at Duke University Hospital in Fort Smith. The program upgraded its equipment—boosting hands-on learning with a HIRED grant—to better prepare students for their careers. River Valley Democrat-Gazette
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ The City of Fort Smith will close Ellis between Darby and Ward + Ward between Terry and Fort Chaffee Blvd on Oct. 18 from 5:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. for the Chaffee Crossing Farmers' and Artisan Market, so drivers should plan alternate routes. City of Fort Smith
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ The Razorbacks lost to No. 12 Tennessee 34-31 on Saturday afternoon as Bobby Petrino’s team fell short after a late comeback attempt and struggled with three turnovers. 5 News
- ➤ Shiloh Christian turned three turnovers into quick touchdowns to beat Fort Smith Southside 52-24 at Jim Rowland Stadium Friday night—showing a strong, fast game plan. River Valley Democrat-Gazette
- ➤ Van Buren's defense played well on Friday night at Blakemore Field and helped the team secure its best start to league play in 27 seasons—this strong performance followed a conference shutout last time in 2018. The achievement highlights the team's defensive consistency and marks a significant milestone in their season. River Valley Democrat-Gazette
- ➤ UAFS freshman Lydia Pitts quickly adjusted to college volleyball as she posted a double-double with 11 kills and 11 digs—helping her team sweep Arkansas-Monticello in straight sets. The former Fort Smith Southside standout made a strong debut in the match. River Valley Democrat-Gazette
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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