Good morning, Fort Smith.

Stephanie Stipins was a community leader who connected Fort Smith residents by organizing projects that rebuilt homes after disasters—her efforts built lasting bridges of support.

She passed away from medical complications after surgery, and her family later received a $15 million judgment that raised questions about standards of care.

Fort Smith’s Hamilton Center for Child Advocacy, which has helped 970 children and served the community for 15 years, is at risk of closing by July after losing 89% of its state and federal funding—this loss puts 12 staff positions in jeopardy and leaves vulnerable children without needed support. Local law enforcement and social agencies rely on the center to safely handle difficult abuse cases, highlighting the urgent need for restored funding.

The River Valley Weekend Guide lists events set for November 21 to 23, including Rittz performing at Majestic in Fort Smith—Van Buren’s annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony as part of a busy weekend of local offerings.

Residents can also plan for live music, farmers market, art exhibits and more across community venues during the upcoming weekend.

UAFS hosted the Lion’s Lair Business Plan Competition on November 17 where six student teams pitched business ideas, marketing plans & projected financials to a panel of regional judges.

Winners were awarded almost $2,000 in prizes and now have the opportunity to advance to the Governor’s Cup, a state-wide contest offering over $140,000 in prize money.

Sebastian County justices of the peace approved paying $184,582 for its half of the Parrot Island Waterpark's $369,164 debt so the park can settle its creditors.

Officials noted revenue fell short due to 44 rain days and missing slide projects — they will require quarterly financial reports starting next year.

At the Stubblefield Center Tuesday, newcomer guard Brandon Scott opened scoring with a three-point basket on toy toss night and led UAFS to a 100-46 win over the University of the Ozarks—twelve players helped the Lions improve to 3-0.

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.

Candlelight Christmas Concert

6:30-8:30 p.m. — United States Marshals Museum — Ticket prices vary — Experience the magic of Christmas Carols performed by strings under candlelight.