Fort Smith Metro News Briefs: Methodist Village receives grant, Fort Smith Dine Local Week set

Following are news brief items from the Fort Smith metro.

Senior Living Support
Fort Smith-based Methodist Village Senior Living (MVSL) has received a $500,000 Challenge Grant from the J.E. and L.E. Mabee Foundation. The funding will be used to renovate and expand existing rooms at the Village’s care center.

“We are deeply thankful to the Mabee Foundation for their incredible support,” said MVSL CEO Melissa Curry. “This grant not only helps us improve our facilities but also strengthens our commitment to serving our community with compassion and dignity.”

The challenge grant is part of a broader initiative by MVSL to raise $2 million to complete the renovation project.

“This grant is a testament to the trust and belief that the Mabee Foundation has in our mission,” said Kenneth Siebenmorgen, MVSL board president. “It inspires us to work even harder to create a nurturing environment for our residents, ensuring they feel at home at MVSL.”

Dine Local Week
Arranged by Discover Fort Smith and sponsored by Tankersley, Dine Local Week in Fort Smith will be held Feb. 22-28. The event “highlights the city’s vibrant food scene by encouraging residents and visitors alike to support local restaurants through special menus, discounts, and limited-time offers,” according to Discover Fort Smith.

There are 30 participating Fort Smith restaurants, including Uncork’d, Prima Italia, Piatto, George’s, La Huerta, and Fort Smith Coffee Company.

“Dine Local Week is about more than great meals,” said Olan James, experiences manager at Discover Fort Smith. “It’s a celebration of the chefs, servers, owners, and families who pour their passion into our community every day. When you dine local, you’re investing directly in Fort Smith.”

Link here to learn about the restaurants that are participating and the deals that are offered during the week.

Water Money
The city of Mansfield in Scott and Sebastian counties received a $285,046 loan from Arkansas’ Water Development Fund. This project serves a customer base of 499. The funds will be used for emergency wastewater treatment plant repairs, according to a statement from the office of Gov. Sarah Sanders.

Ratcliff in Logan County received a $20,600 loan from the fund. The project serves a customer base of 643, and the money will be used for meter replacements.

In total, Gov. Sanders announced $405,646 in financial assistance for water and wastewater projects in three communities with more than 1,398 customers.

Felsenthal, a city in Union County, received a $100,000 loan from the fund. The project serves a customer base of 256, and the money will be used for emergency water main repairs.

Heart Support
Baptist Health–Fort Smith is launching a new monthly virtual cardiac support group designed to provide connection, education and encouragement for people living with heart conditions, and their families and caregivers.

The Baptist Health Heart to Heart Support Group will meet monthly from 10 to 11 a.m. via Google Meet. Meetings will be held on the first Thursday of each month.

This free, virtual support group is open to anyone with a cardiac diagnosis, as well as caregivers and loved ones seeking additional support. Topics may include managing medications and lifestyle changes, coping with emotional stress, nutrition and fluid management, understanding treatment plans, and resources for caregivers.

“We know that living with a heart condition can feel overwhelming, not just for patients but for their families as well,” said Christy Williams, who will host the group. “The group is designed to remind participants they are not alone and to provide a supportive space for learning and connection.”

For more information, contact Williams at [email protected], or (479) 441-5457.