Hey there, Fort Smith! Let's get started with what's happening in and around town. Read on and stay in the loop. ☕️️
In today's newsletter:
And lastly, we have a post from a neighbor, Maria C.!
Today's riddle: What has a neck but no head? 🤔 (Answer below!)
1. Arkansas acid spill exposes chemical plant that operated without permits, killed thousands of fish (thecooldown.com) — A sulfuric acid spill from a Fort Smith chemical plant in May killed thousands of fish, contaminated a creek into Oklahoma, and even damaged a Fort Smith Fire Department ladder truck that may need costly replacement. Investigators say the plant operated without key permits or chemical reports, and Arkansas and federal officials are still weighing penalties and long-term restoration plans.
2. Fort Smith festivals combine to create 'arts weekend' in November (rivervalleydemocratgazette.com) — Downtown Fort Smith is planning a packed arts weekend Nov. 5-7, combining the Fort Smith International Film Festival, the Red Autumn Art Festival, and the new Garrison Arts Walk. Residents can expect more than 140 films, dozens of visual artists, student art competitions, and free outdoor experiences throughout downtown. Organizers say the collaboration aims to boost local businesses while showcasing River Valley creativity.
3. Northside High School band students find family, leadership through music (5newsonline.com) — Northside High School band students in Fort Smith describe how the program has become a second family, building confidence, leadership, and mentorship beyond Friday night football games. Teens share how friendships, supportive directors, and a Latin-themed show are helping them grow on and off the field this year.
4. 78 Arkansas National Guard soldiers return home after D.C. deployment (nwahomepage.com) — Seventy-eight Arkansas National Guard soldiers just returned to Arkansas, landing at Ebbing Air National Guard Base in Fort Smith after a security mission in Washington, D.C. Local military leaders praised their service and specifically thanked Fort Smith families and community members who supported the troops throughout the deployment.
5. Fort Smith police arrest 2 juveniles on suspicion of vehicle break-ins across city over three-day period (rivervalleydemocratgazette.com) — Fort Smith police say two teenagers have been arrested after a three-day string of vehicle thefts and break-ins across the city, with 11 felony counts filed so far. Investigators are still reviewing reports, including a stolen firearm, and expect additional charges. Because the suspects are juveniles, their names have not been released.
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Ok Fort Smith! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!
-- The Patch AM Team
P.S. The answer to today's riddle: A bottle (Thank you Netty W. for sending it in!)
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