Here's your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 18th of November.
Good morning, Fort Smith.
🏘️ Community
Volunteers in Choctaw helped 89-year-old Ruth "Connie" Holland clean up her property after a tornado destroyed her decades-old home last November—demolition crews removed the remains on Saturday and neighbors cleared debris on Sunday to prevent a lien.
Holland said she now hopes the property will be sold so a new family can build memories there.
The University of Arkansas – Fort Smith is hosting its long-running toy toss today at 6:30 p.m. at the Stubblefield Center where fans bring a toy for local charities as part of a community effort to bring holiday cheer to children in the River Valley.
🚨 Crime
Fort Smith Public Schools confirmed that a cyber attack in July exposed a limited number of student registration files (which include personal details of students and parents) and said it will contact affected families (offering free identity theft protection for one year).
🎓 Education
The Arkansas LEARNS Act now allows vouchers for all K-12 students, which has led parents to debate using public funds for private education versus supporting traditional schools.
Many parents are weighing their options—some choose vouchers for added educational support while others worry that pulling funds from public schools will hurt the common good.
🏛️ Government
The City of Fort Smith is following updated EPA Lead and Copper Rule requirements by sending annual notices to some customers so they can report the material of their private service lines—this effort helps identify lead or galvanized materials to protect community health.
Residents who have already replied do not need to take further action, and those who do not receive a notice have no obligation to respond.
🏈 Sports
Arkansas football lost 23—22 to LSU in a close game, and Matt Jones and Christina Long discussed the loss along with other weekend events on the WholeHogSports Daily Podcast.
They noted key moments that may affect the Razorbacks' performance in future games.
Jackson Fuller shared his instant takeaways after Arkansas basketball secured a nonconference win over Samford.
He praised Billy Richmond + the freshmen for their strong play during the game.
🎉 Fort Smith Events
Submit an event →
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.
Red Hat Enterprise Linux Systems Administrator II Training
Dec 8-11 — Fort Smith Adult Education Center — $1890 — Enhance your Linux skills with this hands-on, expert-led training course.
Velcro Pygmies Live Performance
7:30 PM - 1:30 AM — Majestic Fort Smith — Ticket prices vary — Experience a nostalgic musical journey with the World Famous Velcro Pygmies.
An Evening with Jane Austen
6:30-11 p.m. — Bonneville House — Ticket purchase required — Celebrate Jane Austen's 250th birthday with a Regency dinner, wine tasting, and dance lessons.
🏠 Fort Smith Real Estate
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💼 Fort Smith Job Board
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📣 Fort Smith Announcements
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