New developments in Fort Smith are making waves, impacting both local residents and visitors alike. From exciting new shopping experiences to community-focused initiatives, these changes are worth paying attention to.

A New Fishing Experience at Bass Pro Shops

PRADCO Fishing, a well-known name in the fishing industry, has opened its first custom lure shop at the newly launched Bass Pro Shops in Fort Smith. Based in Birmingham, Alabama, PRADCO has been an integral part of the Fort Smith community since 1962. This customized lure shop is more than just a retail start; it represents a unique interactive experience for fishing enthusiasts.

According to a PRADCO press release, founder Johnny Morris specifically requested that PRADCO be part of the Fort Smith store. With a digital printer set up in the store, customers can now create custom lures from multiple popular brand blanks. Choices include beloved names like Heddon and Rebel. A dedicated full-time employee will be available during all business hours to assist customers with selections. This is an exciting way for anglers to personalize their gear, enhancing their fishing experience.

Bruce Stanton, the vice president of PRADCO Fishing, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, emphasizing how it elevates the customer experience at Bass Pro Shops. This collaboration not only benefits PRADCO but also strengthens the Fort Smith retail landscape.

Boosting Tourism with New Leadership

In another development, Discover Fort Smith, the local marketing agency, has made a significant addition to its team. Douglas Bienenfeld has been hired as the new director of sales. With more than 30 years of experience in hospitality and sales, Bienenfeld’s role will focus on attracting meetings and events that could boost tourism and local spending.

Before this, Bienenfeld worked with the Michigan Restaurant and Lodging Association and has held various positions in convention sales. He holds a degree in journalism and history from Michigan State University. Ashleigh Bachert, executive director of Discover Fort Smith, expressed excitement about Bienenfeld’s contributions, highlighting his ability to enhance Fort Smith’s appeal as a premier destination for events.

This strategic hire could make a big difference for local businesses and the community as a whole. When more events come to town, it can lead to increased visitor spending and energy in the community.

A Successful Fundraising Campaign

On April 28-29, the University of Arkansas at Fort Smith held its sixth annual Day of Giving, raising an impressive $55,764. This fundraising event exceeded its target and involved over 400 donors who supported 26 projects. Contributions came from students, alumni, community members, and corporate sponsors.

Charisse Tunacao, director of annual giving at UAFS, explained that support goes beyond financial contributions. Every social media share or conversation about the campaign contributes to a sense of community and support for students. With matching gifts from corporate sponsors and individuals, the campaign’s success reflects strong community involvement.

These funds will support various projects like scholarships and critical support services, helping enhance the educational experience for students. A successful fundraising effort like this can create far-reaching effects, improving resources and opportunities for all involved.

Community Initiatives and Clean Energy Projects

Fort Smith is also making strides in sustainability with a new solar canopy at the Farmers Market, scheduled for a “Flip the Switch” event on May 9. Built at a cost of around $1.45 million, this canopy is part of a larger initiative to generate clean energy for the community. Annually, it’s expected to produce approximately 500,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity, helping to lower energy costs and offering shade for market vendors and visitors alike.

Mayor George McGill highlighted the importance of such projects in securing a sustainable future for Fort Smith. Such innovative initiatives can improve community spaces and contribute to long-term savings for residents.

What this means for you

These developments are important as they drive community growth and economic vitality. For local residents, new amenities and leadership can create more opportunities and enhance quality of life. If you ever need to review contracts related to events or services in your area, AI legalese decoder can help translate the fine print into plain English in seconds.

Source: https://talkbusiness.net/2026/05/fort-smith-metro-news-briefs-pradco-and-bass-pro-uafs-marks-day-of-giving-campaign/