Hey Van Buren!

As October comes to a close, our community is shifting from fall festivities into the season of gratitude.

From Main Street Halloween fun to early holiday shopping and hands-on workshops, there’s plenty happening around town.

We’re also preparing a special Veterans-focused issue for next week — and we’d love your help highlighting local Veterans and Veteran-owned businesses. Details below!

Let’s get into what’s happening around the River Valley 👇

Veterans Day is just around the corner, and Van Buren Buzz invites you to help honor local heroes by sharing stories, names, and photos of Veterans and Veteran-owned businesses from the River Valley.

If you know a family member, neighbor, coworker, or friend who served, now’s the time to highlight their service or recognize a local Veteran-run business.

Submit information easily through a short form at go.vanburenbuzz.com/honor or by emailing info@vanburenbuzz.com.

Please include the Veteran’s name, branch of service, years served, a brief story or recognition, and a photo if you wish.

Selected tributes will be featured in the Veterans Month Spotlight Series throughout November, uniting our community to recognize the dedication and sacrifices made by our local Veterans.

Upcoming Local Events

See the Full listings → MyRiverValleyEvents.com

🎃 Halloween on Main

Thu, Oct 31 — 6–8 PM • Downtown Van Buren
Costumes, candy, contests, and community fun along historic Main Street.

🔎 Event details ›

🎣 Fish Fundamentals @ Arts on Main

Fri, Nov 1 • Arts on Main, Van Buren
Hands-on introduction to essential techniques — great for beginners.

🔎 Event details ›

🛍️ Holiday Open House

Nov 7–8 • Downtown Van Buren
Kick off holiday shopping with festive storefronts, gifts, and seasonal cheer.

🔎 Event details ›

➡️ See the full weekly + monthly event list:

👉 MyRiverValleyEvents.com

Residents in Van Buren may have noticed a quirky sight lately—a colorful toilet popping up unexpectedly in local yards.

This traveling “Pointer Potty” is at the heart of a playful fundraising campaign supporting Van Buren High School’s Project Graduation.

Community members can make a donation to move the potty, send it to a friend, or even insure themselves against future visits.

It’s a fun and unique way to raise money for an alcohol-free celebration honoring the senior class.

Proceeds help cover the costs of food, prizes, and safe activities for graduates on commencement night.

To join the lighthearted mischief or support Project Graduation, scan the QR code circulating locally or contact organizers by email at vanburenprojectgraduation@gmail.com.

A little laughter goes a long way in bringing the community together for a good cause.

The Van Buren City Council is considering updates to city regulations that affect what homeowners must do when remodeling, focusing especially on sidewalks and frontage improvements.

Previously, certain renovations have required added features like sidewalks or curbs, prompting questions about when these rules should apply to residential projects.

At the latest meeting, council members explored options to clarify requirements, but no final decisions or new language have been released.

Homeowners planning renovations are urged to contact the City’s Building Department for the most up-to-date permits and guidelines, as requirements can vary by project scope.

Residents can reach the department at 479-474-8943 or visit 1003 Broadway St. in Van Buren for more details.

Further updates will be provided as decisions are finalized.

Elliot may be small in size, but he stands tall with the confidence and poise of a natural leader.

His lively personality and charming spirit make him impossible to resist.

Elliot enjoys his daily walks and eagerly greets every new friend he meets along the way.

His curiosity and courage shine through, making him an energetic, loyal companion ready to join in on every adventure.

This bold pup is looking for a loving home where his vibrant character can truly shine.

Health Note: Elliot is heartworm positive and needs a peaceful, stress-free environment as he completes his fully covered treatment with Almost Home Shelter.

If your family is seeking a confident, affectionate pet, Elliot could be your perfect match.

☀️ River Valley 7-Day Outlook

• Wed: ⛅ Partly sunny — high 76° / low 55°

• Thu: 🌤 Mostly clear — high 78°

• Fri: 🌧 Scattered showers — high 72° / low 53°

• Sat: 🌦 AM drizzle — high 68°

• Sun: ☀️ Sunny & pleasant — high 70°

• Mon: 🌤 Bright start — high 73°

• Tue: ⛅ Mix of sun & clouds — high 75°

Looks like a great week to enjoy fall events — especially Halloween on Main!

Thanks for reading The Buzz and supporting the people, places, and events that make Van Buren special.

Got a story, event, or business update to share?

📩 Send it our way → info@vanburenbuzz.com

Want to help spread the word?

🤝 Forward this newsletter to a neighbor, friend, or coworker!

See you around town —
The Van Buren Buzz Team