Editor’s Note - Mar 8, 2026

This week’s issue touches on two things that tend to define spring in the River Valley: changing weather and the projects shaping the region’s future.

After a week of storms moving through western Arkansas, we put together a quick guide with a few simple steps residents can take to stay prepared during severe weather season.

We’re also looking at the next step in the long-running effort to complete Interstate 49 through the region. ARDOT is hosting public meetings in Greenwood this week to share updated plans for the corridor between Barling and Y City — a project that could influence travel and economic development across the River Valley for decades to come.

As always, we’ve also included a few upcoming events, a local business spotlight, and a couple of community happenings around the area.

Thanks for being part of the River Valley Local community.

Spring Storm Season Has Arrived

After a week of thunderstorms across the River Valley, many residents are getting a reminder that spring storm season is underway. A few simple preparations now can make a big difference when severe weather moves in.

A major step toward completing Interstate 49 through western Arkansas is moving forward. ARDOT is hosting public meetings in Greenwood this week to present updated plans for the corridor between Barling and Y City — a key missing link that could reshape travel and economic development across the River Valley.

Spring storms often mean broken limbs and downed trees across the River Valley. If you’re dealing with cleanup after recent storms, a local option to know about is JR’s Tree Service.

Locally and veteran owned, JR’s Tree Service provides tree removal, trimming, and storm cleanup throughout the area. The company focuses on safe removal practices, reliable service, and helping property owners quickly deal with storm damage or hazardous trees.

If you have limbs down after this week’s storms or a tree that needs attention before the next round of severe weather, it may be worth giving them a call.

Looking to stay connected to other local business owners? We keep a running list of business networking events and professional meetups happening around the River Valley.

Whether you’re new to the area or just looking to reconnect with the local business community, you can see upcoming events here:

River Valley Local is building one of the largest collections of events and things to do across the River Valley, gathered from community calendars, local organizations, and event listings throughout the region.

Right now our calendar includes 300+ upcoming events, and we’re adding new ones daily as we discover them.

Here are a few happenings coming up this week:

Moss Wall Art Workshop | Alma | Mar 10

ARDOT Future of Interstate 49 Public Meeting | Greenwood | Mar 10 and Mar 12

Second Saturday - St Patrick’s Day Shenanegans | Van Buren | Mar 14

If you're planning the weekend, we also highlight just the upcoming Friday–Sunday events in one place so it’s easy to see what’s happening around the River Valley.

👉 See Things to Do This Weekend

Or browse the full calendar with 300+ upcoming events across the region:

If you’re looking for something sweet in Fort Smith, Confectionally Yours on Rogers Avenue offers everything from custom wedding cakes to everyday treats.

Their bakery case often features a rotating selection of macarons, cannolis, fruit tarts, cookies, cupcakes, and mousse desserts, making it a great stop whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving something sweet.

📍 5215 Rogers Ave, Fort Smith
👉 Discover more about Confectionally Yours

Want to support a local animal rescue while enjoying dinner out?

On Monday, March 9 from 5–8 PM, the Texas Roadhouse in Fort Smith is hosting a Dine & Donate event benefiting The Artemis Project Rescue. When you dine in and mention the organization, 10% of your food purchase will be donated to help support the rescue’s work caring for animals in need.

It’s an easy way to support a local cause - just grab dinner and spread the word.

Follow coverage from across the River Valley:

Add your Business to the River Valley Local Directory

Submit an Event to our Events calendar

Meet more Adoptable Dogs at Almost Home Shelter or Fort Smith Animal Haven

Thanks for reading River Valley Local. We’re continuing to build River Valley Local into a single place for events, local answers, and practical information.

Have something we should know about? An event, update, or story tip? Just reply to this email — we read every message.

Community note
River Valley Local grows through word of mouth. If you find this newsletter useful, sharing it with a friend or neighbor helps strengthen local coverage across the River Valley.

We’re also working toward our next community milestone — 1,000 subscribers — and when we get there, we plan to celebrate with a local giveaway. More details soon.

River Valley Local is typically sent Sunday mornings. Occasionally, we’ll send a special mid-week update if something important affects a specific area.