Beyond the Current
THE MISSION:
Van Buren is often known for a few familiar landmarks like Big Springs, the Jolly Cone and the Current River. Yet, life here is shaped by far more than what shows up on a postcard. There is life Beyond the Current.
This magazine exists to tell the stories happening in and around this place through the people who live here. We focus on real stories of families, small businesses, faith communities, and moments of change in the community. Some stories are rooted in the past, but they matter because they shape the current.
This is not a tourism guide or a history book. It is a place-based storytelling project for people who want to better understand where they live and why it matters.
THE VISION:
We believe small places deserve thoughtful storytelling. Our vision is to create a living record of life in rural communities — stories of resilience, work, transformation and community. While rooted in Van Buren, this project is built to grow alongside the surrounding region, reflecting shared values and ways of life.
HOW IT’S DIFFERENT:
Tourism pages show highlights. Historical projects look backward. This sits in the middle as it documents real life as it is happening, through people, work, faith, land and change.
WHAT SETS BEYOND THE CURRENT APART?
- It’s not promotional. We’re not trying to sell the place or convince people to visit.
- It’s not nostalgic for nostalgia’s sake. History is included only when it helps explain the present.
- It’s people-first. Landmarks matter, but people give them meaning.
- It slows down. We value depth over volume and attention over trends.
- It documents what is happening now. Some stories are rooted in the past, but they’re told because they shape life today.
WHO IS THIS FOR?
- People who live here
- People who grew up here
- People who care about small places and real stories
- You don’t have to be local to read it — but it’s written with locals in mind.
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