Good morning, Fort Smith.

Food pantries in the River Valley area offer scheduled food distribution for residents in Sebastian and Crawford counties in Fort Smith—each site operates on specific days and times and some require photo ID or an appointment.

UAFS alum Josiah Olmstead spent three years making a documentary in honor of his late grandfather Dick Sweeney—one of the seven founders of the American Association of Zoo Keepers.

He will screen 'My Grandfather: The Zookeeper' at 6 p.m. on Nov. 10 at the UAFS Windgate Theatre, and it will also stream on YouTube.

UAFS reported an 18% rise in students and staff using its food pantry for weekly grocery bags since fall 2024 because of higher food prices and lower spending power.

Today, the pantry—located in Recreation and Wellness on the south side of campus—will offer an extra food giveaway to about 195 people with boxes containing 16 prepackaged shelf-stable items donated by the River Valley Regional Food Bank.

Gardeners in the River Valley are warned that the first freeze is expected on Monday the 10th and frost may form on clear, calm nights—experts advise moving houseplants indoors, covering cool-season vegetables, and watering weekly if rain is low.

The City Council did not approve covering a $100,000 gap, so work on Greenwood's inclusive playground may be delayed even though the $500,000 first phase is funded—Parks and Recreation Director Casey Craig said the extra money is needed before construction can start.

The University of Arkansas at Fort Smith will host Military Appreciation Night on Friday to honor U.S. veterans and active-duty members with special admission, giveaways, and a ceremony before the Lady Lions volleyball game — doors open at 5 p.m. at Gayle Kaundart Arena at the Stubblefield Center. The first 100 guests will receive a limited-edition UAFS camouflage hat and student veteran Jade Carry along with retired Col. Carey Tucker will be honored with personalized plaques.

RHCSA Exam Preparation Training

Nov 17-21 — Fort Smith Adult Education Center — $2250 — Enhance your Linux skills and prepare for the RHCSA certification in a comprehensive 5-day course.

Book Lover's Club

10 AM – 12 PM — Fort Smith Public Library — Free entry — Discuss your latest reads in a community of fellow book enthusiasts.

Christmas Honors Wreath-Laying Event

8 a.m. - 11 a.m. — Fort Smith Convention Center — Free entry — Participate in a heartfelt wreath-laying ceremony to commemorate the holiday season.

Hearts of Gold Classic 5K Run/Walk for Project Compassion

3-5 p.m. — Ben Geren Regional Park — Registration details available — Participate in a festive holiday run to support Project Compassion.