Editor’s Note - Jan 4, 2026

Happy New Year! Hope it is off to a great start! Its quieter pot holiday week but there is still plenty happening arounf the River Valley - plus we’ve got a couple useful reads to help you start off the year right!

Have you noticed a slight change in your water and sewer bill this month? You aren't alone. Starting January 1, 2026, Van Buren has moved to a more predictable "inflation-linked" rate system. While the city has capped increases at 4% to protect your wallet, these funds are the engine driving our major downtown drainage projects and the upcoming 61,000-square-foot community center.

Fort Smith is moving forward with several redevelopment efforts that could shape growth, housing, and downtown activity in 2026 and beyond. Here’s what residents should know.

Every new year brings the same urge: fix what isn’t working. Lose weight. Earn more. Be more disciplined. We usually treat change as something external — a new habit, a new app, a new plan.

But real change rarely works that way.

Before anything shifts in your schedule, your finances, or your health, it starts with how you think about yourself — what you believe you’re capable of, what you expect from effort, and how you explain setbacks when they show up.

This week, we’re starting a short series called A Practical Guide to Real Change. It’s not about resolutions or hype. It’s about how change actually works — starting with mindset, then moving through planning, action, persistence, and finally becoming the kind of person who follows through.

The first piece focuses on the foundation: why trying to change your life from the outside in rarely lasts, and what to do instead.

Nestled at 806 Main Street, Gem Adventures is more than just a shop—it’s a deep dive into the earth’s history. From museum-quality fossils to custom-designed jewelry, owners and staff offer a level of expertise (and over 25 years of experience) that makes them a cornerstone of downtown. Whether you're a serious collector or looking for a unique gift, it's worth a stop this weekend. Hours: Mon–Wed (10–6), Thu–Sat (10–6:30), Sun (12–4).

👉 Mastering Mediterranean Cuisine Jan 5, 20206 | Van Buren

👉Taco 2sday Ride (Mountain Biking) Jan 6, 2026 | Fort Smith

👉Trivia Night Jan 7 2026 | Fort Smith

Cold weather, shorter days, and more time indoors can put extra strain on your immune system. We put together a simple winter immunity checklist with a few practical things to keep in mind this season.

Freezing temperatures can cause more than just inconvenience — frozen or burst pipes can turn into costly repairs fast. We put together a practical winter plumbing survival guide covering simple steps to protect your home, what warning signs to watch for, and what to do if something goes wrong.

If you're looking for a local spot that balances authentic Italian flavor with a welcoming atmosphere, Goodfella’s Pizza & Pasta on Towson Avenue is a must-visit. Known for its hip yet cozy vibe, it has become a staple for Fort Smith families and foodies alike.

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