"Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful."

Van Buren stands at a pivotal moment, with its reputation as a crossroads for river, rail, and highway routes set to expand thanks to a 7,200-acre Opportunity Zone that includes much of the city’s Industrial Park and riverfront.

The highly anticipated Slackwater Harbor project, breaking ground in April 2026, is expected to transform shipping along the Arkansas River, offering protected, all-weather access for barges and further cementing Van Buren’s role as a state shipping hub.

With I-40 and I-540 access, dual rail service, and established port operations, the city remains unique for providing all major freight modes within one location.

The Industrial Park is already home to giants like Tyson Foods and AFCO Steel, with available tracts and federal tax incentives drawing fresh interest across sectors.

New growth could also spark housing and commercial development tied to workforce needs, supporting both future employers and residents.

Secret Little Hack

Visit the small local businesses in downtown Van Buren for unique finds and delicious food options that you can't find anywhere else.

Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders sparked controversy after announcing that the special election to replace the late Senator Gary Stubblefield in District 26 would be delayed until November 2026 — over a year following his death on September 2, 2025.

The decision drew swift condemnation from the Democratic Party of Arkansas, while Republican candidates also voiced frustration with the lengthy vacancy.

Facing mounting backlash, Governor Sanders quickly revised her decision, moving the general election forward to June 9, 2026, with the special primary staying on March 3, 2026.

Sanders said the original delay was intended to cut costs but changed course after feedback from community members and election officials.

Republican hopefuls Brad Simon and Ted Tritt criticized the drawn-out process, insisting the district deserves prompt representation.

The state’s Democrats remain in talks with potential candidates, reflecting strong local demand for a timely Senate voice.

Experience living history at the U.S. Marshals Museum during the Fort Smith Fall Festival, where free admission and special events welcome all ages.

This national museum honors America’s oldest federal law enforcement agency, founded in 1789 by President George Washington.

Through engaging exhibits, visitors discover stories of the brave men and women who established justice across the wild frontier, including legendary lawmen like Bass Reeves.

Fort Smith’s pivotal role as the enforcement center for the lawless Indian Territory — under figures such as Judge Isaac C. Parker — makes the city the ideal home for this museum.

Younger explorers can immerse themselves in The Lawman’s Satchel, an interactive activity where kids make their own badges and map out western towns.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to connect with local and national history in an unforgettable setting.

🏡 Real Estate Snapshot: Van Buren, AR (Fall 2025)

🔍 Key Insights & Takeaways

• Appreciation but volatility: Van Buren prices are rising, though county data shows some softening trends.
• Strong demand: Homes are selling quickly, often within 22 days on the market.
• Affordability: Median prices remain accessible compared to national averages.
• Tax perks: Median property tax rate is ~0.52–0.53%, lower than national norms. (Ownwell)
• Watch for shifts: County-wide pricing drop may signal future softness or correction risks.

Meet Jimbo, a charming pup with a knack for gobbling up any tasty treat in sight.

This sweet canine dreams of a spacious backyard to stretch out and lounge in the sun.

Jimbo thrives as the only dog in the home but gets along well with other pups who respect his space.

If you want a loyal hiking companion who’s always by your side—and might sneak a snack if you’re not looking—Jimbo fits the bill.

He’s searching for an adult-only household, where he can explore, relax, and be the goofy, loving friend you’ll adore.

Give Jimbo the forever home he deserves and discover just how much happiness this lovable goofball can bring.

Forest Fears Haunted Attraction – Van Buren, AR

River Valley Nightmare (Fort Smith)

Summary: Outdoor haunted trail (½-mile) with live entertainment, food & beverages, and special themed nights.

Event Details & Tickets

Asylum X Haunted House (Downtown Fort Smith)

Summary: High-intensity haunted house with optional add-ons like Monster Lights and Touch Pass.

Tickets & Details

Painted Pumpkin Contest – Fort Smith Animal Haven

The Patch at Lost Hwy Farms – Shady Point, OK

Fort Smith Fall Festival (Downtown Fort Smith)

Summary: Free museum admissions, trolley rides, historic reenactments, kids’ crafts, food trucks, vendors, and live music—across downtown.

Event Details

Thinking about heading to Fort Smith Fall Fest?

Grab the Ultimate Guide to Fall Fest.

Shine On Festival – Fort Chaffee / Fort Smith

4th Annual Giving Festival – Benefiting The Artemis Project

🎶 Big Bear’s Open MIC/Opry Show 🎤

Composting transforms everyday yard waste and kitchen scraps into nutrient-rich soil through natural decomposition, guided by bacteria and fungi.

This process reduces landfill waste, while making garden soil healthier and more productive.

Mixing “greens” like grass clippings and veggie scraps with “browns” such as dry leaves or cardboard keeps your pile well-balanced.

Aim for about three parts carbon-rich browns to one part nitrogen-heavy greens for best results.

Turn and moisten your pile regularly—it should feel like a wrung sponge—to speed decomposition and avoid foul odors.

Finished compost looks dark and smells earthy, safely boosting your garden’s health without drawing pests.

Compact spaces can benefit from vermicomposting, where worms convert waste indoors into top-notch soil.

Whichever method you choose, composting helps you grow thriving plants and supports a greener community.

Government Shutdown Impact on Veteran Community

🚨 Important Update: Government Shutdown and VA Services 🚨

As many of you are aware, funding for some government agencies, including portions of the Department of Veterans Affairs, expired at midnight this morning. This development raises concerns, but here's what you need to know:

President Trump has expressed opposition to this funding lapse. On September 19, the House of Representatives passed a clean continuing resolution, supported by the Trump Administration, to fund the government through November 21. Unfortunately, delays have occurred due to unrelated policy demands by some members in the Senate.

Impact on VA Programs:

• ❌ The VA will not provide Veteran career counseling or transition assistance program activities.
• ❌ The GI Bill Hotline will be closed.
• ❌ VA regional benefits offices will be closed.
• ❌ VA will cease public affairs and outreach to Veterans.
• ❌ VA will not permanently place headstones or maintain the grounds at VA national cemeteries.
• ❌ VA will not process applications for pre-need burials.
• ❌ VA will not print new presidential memorial certificates.

VA Services Unaffected:

• ✅ Veteran health care is not impacted. VA Medical Centers, Outpatient Clinics, and Vet Centers will be open.
• ✅ VA benefits—compensation, pension, education, and housing benefits—will continue to be processed and delivered.
• ✅ Burials at VA national cemeteries, and the processing of applications for headstones, markers, and burial benefits, will continue.
• ✅ The Board of Veterans’ Appeals will continue decisions on Veterans’ cases.
• ✅ VA Contact Centers (1-800-MyVA411) and the Veterans Crisis Line (Dial 988, Press 1) are open 24/7.