Issuu

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EDITOR’S NOTES

Editorial Staff LINDA SEUBOLD Editor in Chief lindaseubold@efortsmith.com LYNN WASSON Managing Editor lynnwasson@efortsmith.com DONNA PAYNE Senior Editor donnapayne@efortsmith.com MARY JANE HENNIG Art Director Contributing Writers REBA MIZE BRITTANY RANSOM KRISTAN ROLAND PAIGE STEWART Contributing Photographers ROGER CARTER KARRIE KELLY REBA MIZE KRISTAN ROLAND LYNN WASSON Favorites Portraits by GLENN GILLEY Dusan Stojanovic Photos courtesy of University of Arkansas-Fort Smith

Advertising Sales DAVID CARTER davidcarter@efortsmith.com 479-650-9885 Advertising Coordinator KARRIE KELLY karrie@efortsmith.com 479-494-1888 Bookkeeping JULIE BERCH HAMILTON accounts@efortsmith.com 479-494-1888 © 2015 eFortSmith.com Media, Inc. 316 North 7th Street P.O. Box 1341 Fort Smith, AR 72902-1341 Office: 479-494-1888

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Entertainment Fort Smith

February 2015

We’re back! Hi! We missed you. Hey, we’re back! Thanks to all the folks who They could become a favorite for you. call every January with a concern that we’ve Besides the Favorites, this issue includes other stopped publishing. Obviously, we are still at it. big news. Two very exciting things happening As it has been every year since this, our 15th soon are the new Fort Smith Marathon on Feb. year, we published January’s upcoming events in 8 and the U.S. Marshals Stampede, next month. the December/January issue. Yes, we went back We include it so everyone who wants to go can to work after right Christmas just as everyone get their tickets now. else did. This February issue is Both are first-time, wellour proof! planned and really distinctive We return from our brief efforts. The marathon, with halfholiday to bring you the results marathon and team relay races as of our Readers’ Favorites Poll. well, is going to be a real spectator Someday, we’ll have to produce event. The course has been laid the “making of ” documentary out to be both scenic and showing the fun we have challenging. These runners need behind the scenes during these spectators to cheer them up the winners’ photo shoots. It can get hill to the Chaffee Crossing silly. McClure Amphitheater and up In the center you will see a the grinding climb of Mile Tree rare, rare photo of me with my Drive. It will be thrilling to see buddy Alex Catsavis of George’s the leaders approaching the finish Alex Catsavis and Lynn, popping in to change Restaurant – an all-time line by running down North B out props for the photos. “Favorite Cheeseburger” champ. Street toward the river. I Here’s the reason. In order personally think we ought to to cajole some of our more shy winners into a cheer the back of the pack, the novices who photo, I promised several of them that it really show their “grit” but trying for their first would only be fair if I agreed to be 26.3-mile race. photographed, myself. I don’t enjoy it either! The U.S. Marshals Stampede is in March and Don’t expect to see me again for a long, long wow, we think this one may finally top the while. I’m definitely a “pay no attention to that famous wedding of Gen. Benjamin Bonneville man behind the curtain” type. So are many of and Miss Susan Neis that Fort Smith has been the business owners you, the readers, elevated hearing about since, oh, 1871. The Stampede is by voting their stores, restaurants, events and going to top it, or they plan to, in pizzazz, services as your “Favorites.” glamor, delicious food and great music by Asleep Although we kid around during our photo at the Wheel. Read the details on page 32. shoots, we repeatedly notice how touched and In these pages there is also a sweet love story, a how proud most of these hard-working people patriotic story and hilarious toddler drama and are to receive this (just-for-fun) award. mother angst. We hope you enjoy it. We’re glad Perhaps your own favorites are in these pages to be back. You, the readers, are our “Favorites.” or maybe you’ll find out about something new! – Lynn Wasson

CIRCULATION Entertainment Fort Smith is a monthly city/regional magazine published from February to December by eFortSmith.com Media, Inc. Entertainment Fort Smith distributes 30,000 complimentary issues per month.

SUBSCRIPTION Entertainment Fort Smith can be mailed to you for $30 a publication year (11 issues).

Complimentary issues are distributed in Fort Smith, Van Buren, Alma, Greenwood and Barling, Ark., and in Roland, Muldrow, Spiro, Pocola, Poteau and Sallisaw, Okla., in retail and grocery stores, corporate offices, restaurants, medical offices, public libraries, visitor centers and tourist destinations. Complimentary issues are also provided in guest rooms of area hotels.

To print out a form and mail with a check, download a subscription form from www.efortsmith.com

To order by credit card, call 479-494-1888.

Mail check or money order to: Subscribe P.O. Box 1341, Fort Smith AR 72902

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CONTENTS 8

Readers’ Favorites

Silly symphony: an outtake from picture day

February 2015

features

Your 13th Annual Readers’ Favorites

To a young man from far away, Fort Smith now feels like home

Runners drawn to a marathon that takes grit

This “Big Ball’s in Cowtown, we’ll dance around ...”

Here’s who wins the coveted approval of Entertainment Fort Smith’s readers – this year. These races, fundraisers, performances, stores and restaurants were chosen by you!

Dusan , a student and athlete at the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith, came from Serbia but now chooses this town over any in the U.S. By Paige Stewart

“This one’s got grit” is the motto of the inaugural Fort Smith Marathon. Its course was chosen for historic locations, scenic beauty and to make runners reach deep for courage.

The U.S. Marshals Stampede is perhaps the biggest ball ever to be held in Fort Smith. Asleep at the Wheel’s performance is just one attraction of this huge fundraising party.

columns

8 53 20

This is home for Dusan.

Same time next year

HOT STUFF with LINDA SEUBOLD There’s a lot of musical tradition and history at 817 Garrison Avenue.

PARENTAL UNITS by guest columnist Kristan Roland With her 2-year-old in a diva drama stage, a mom can still find some humor.

departments

HOME & GARDEN

WHAT’S COOKING with Kristan Roland

GARDENING with Reba Mize

LIFE, HEALTH & BEAUTY

DINING GUIDE

Smith Auto Group has created a new landmark headquarters.

Recipes for the sweetest holiday of all.

Nice flowers, colorful leaves and the only blues you want to eat. Plant blueberries!

This couple “recycles” something special at Kopper-Kettle Candies each February.

Notes from the 13th annual Readers’ Favorites restaurateur, chefs and bottle washers.

eve n t s

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Mountain blues

Entertainment Fort Smith

February 2015

MUSIC & PERFORMANCE

CALENDAR of EVENTS

EVENTS FOR KIDS

On the Cover: Representing the Fort Smith Museum of History’s Ice Cream Social, picked as a Favorite, “Judge Parker and Mary” sip soda fountain treats with Phil White of the museum’s board.

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BY LINDA SEUBOLD

On this spot from1988-2014 ... it rocked Some prime downtown property at 815/817 Garrison Avenue may, or may not, have a new owner when you read this column. But one thing is certain – whoever buys or leases this unique restaurant/music venue from its longtime owner, Bill Neumeier, will be on hallowed ground. It has been an important piece of downtown Fort Smith food and entertainment history since 1988. Bill's popular food and music businesses began when he opened a bright, friendly diner called Coney Island at that location with the help of a friend and former boss, Bob Hartness. Coney Island immediately became a place where downtown workers – including me and most of the staff of the nearby Southwest Times Record where I worked – could get tasty, inexpensive lunches in a hurry. Most of our news room crew, including this magazine’s senior editor Donna Payne, especially enjoyed the loaded baked potatoes – giant russets baked to perfection, generously topped with melted cheese, the best chili in town and all the fresh jalapeño peppers a pepperhead like me could hope for. In 1989 and 1990, Bill and his friend Bert Wright, a downtown supporter and banker, organized free street dances. “That's when I learned free events are not so good, or easy to do,” Bill said. “But I still have people tell me how much they enjoyed those free dances on the Avenue.” In 1990, Coney Island added a mobile downtown pizza wagon service for which Bill made the pizzas early each morning. In his “spare time,” he started making improvements to the little garden area next to the restaurant. In 1994, the restaurant and its patio became Coney Island's Beer Garden. That same year, Bill and his friend Mark Perry also combined their barbecue skills to win first place in pork ribs at the Arkansas State BBQ Championship. In 1991, having no prior experience at such a task, Bill organized and produced the city's first Riverfront Blues Festival featuring Texas bluesman Anson Funderburg, the Famous Unknowns, Glen R. Townsend Band and Hoodoo Rhythm, featuring Barry Ratliff. This year will mark the festival’s 24th continuous year as one of the city's favorite annual events, presented since by the nonprofit Riverfront Blues Society. In 1995, the Beer Garden hosted its first national touring act – Poppa Chubby. In 1996, Bill put up the garden's first “real”stage. He moved pizza sales to 508 Garrison, establishing Papa's Pub & Pizzaria. In 1998, Coney Island officially became Neumeier's Rib Room & Beer Garden, where Bill shared his award-winning barbecue ribs, along with music. People flocked there for both the food and to see, up close and personal, some of the best musicians in America. 8

Entertainment Fort Smith

February 2015

Typical, packed night.

The roster of artists who have played on Bill’s stages is astonishing. Little old Coney Island. As he and I talked, we each pulled out more and more old photos and Blues great Luther Allison playing clippings and remembered the Beer Garden, a real coup. phenomenal performances. Please see Hot Stuff online at our website, efortsmith.com, or his, ribroom.com, for more pics and lists. In 2008, he closed for major renovations and reopened in 2009 as the two-story Neumeier's Rib Room & Beer Garden, with more new and famous national acts. Bill also fondly remembers a Travelocity report about America's top 250 restaurants during that time. It rated his Rib Room the No. 1 restaurant in Arkansas. But Arkansas' hottest summer on record in 2010 slowed the Rib Room's outdoor dining and that hurt business, Bill said. Each year following, he scaled back dining hours until he only served food when the garden was open for live music. When asked what motivated him to put his landmark Rib Room up for sale in January, Bill said, “I've been doing live music for 20-plus years, but it's seasonal and I'm due for a break – I'm ready to go see some live music!” And, although he has no immediate plans for it, he said he would like to get back in the barbecue business someday. Bill said his love of music and bringing top performers to Fort Smith also will continue. As a condition to the sale or lease of the Rib Room property, he has made a three-year no compete agreement for club promotion – but he can participate in planning and promoting events such as festivals. And he's already doing that. He has been working with a local group planning a three-day music and arts festival to be held at Riverfront Park July 31-Aug. 2. Bill said helping plan the new festival is exciting. “It takes me back to helping start the first Fort Smith blues festival. Helping Fort Smith is always my goal.”

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13th Annual

Readers’ Favorites Chosen by readers’ votes on write-in ballots, here are the people and places you chose as your Favorites this year. Our annual, just-for-fun poll establishes braggin’ rights and a lot of appreciation from the chosen businesses, services and organizations.

Favorite Antiques Mall Belle Starr Antiques, Beth Templeton

Favorite Art & Handmade Items The Goods, Sherry and Amy Goodrum with a found and customized “e” they gave to us.

Favorite Antiques & Collectibles The Now & Then Shoppe, Joan Sloat

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Favorite Women’s Apparel Favorite Trendy Apparel Boutique Red Leopard Boutique Belva Deramus and Vesti Medford

Favorite Furniture Store Furniture Emporium, Patrick Byrd with future owners Kyle, Andrew and Mary

Favorite Personalized/ Monogram Store Inscriptions, Delanna Taylor

Favorite Decor/Resale /Repurpose Store Yard Sale Find Designs Kenneth and Payton Robison

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Favorite Boutique Young/Teen Women

Favorite Infant & Kids Clothing Katiebug’s, Kim Cox and Lindsey Wilkinson Reed

Crane Clothing Co., Heather Rincon

Favorite Consignment /Resale Clothing Designer Again, Tiffany Parker

Favorite Destination Shopping Central Mall, Jennifer Dreisbach and Deborah Johnson

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Favorite Outdoor Festival Riverfront Blues Festival Charles and Michele Alley and Dwight Hopkins

Favorite Live Music Venue Neumeier’s Rib Room, Bill Neumeier

Favorite History Event Fort Smith Museum of History Ice Cream Social Sue and Floyd Robison as Judge and Mrs. Parker and Phil White, board member

Favorite Library Event Friends of the Fort Smith Library Chocolate Festival Laura Whitson and Jennifer Goodson

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Favorite Charitable Campaign United Way Penni Burns, Angie Ruth, Bill Hanesworth, Mitzy Little and Cortney Christenson

Favorite Non-Profit Fundraiser Event Susan G. Komen Ozark Affiliate Paint the Park Pink Teresa Berry Jones and Madeline Marquette

Favorite Non-Profit Race Donald W. Reynolds Cancer Support House Survivors’ Challenge John Ziegler and Susan Steffens

Favorite Non-Profit Fundraiser Party Donald W. Reynolds Cancer Support Center Wine & Roses Susan Steffens with Deborah and Scott Clark

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Favorite Live Musical Performance Fort Smith Symphony, Evan Mino and John Jeter, director

Favorite Theater Performance Cinderella, Young Actors Guild Mark Andrews, lighting designer Laura Pierson, Cinderella Missy Gipson, director

Favorite Youth Performance Young Actors Guild Plays Emily French, YAG participant Missy Gipson, executive director Ann Childs, donor and board member

Favorite Place to Enjoy Art Exhibits Fort Smith Regional Art Museum Lee Ortega

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Favorite Artistic Nails Favorite Hair Salon Favorite Barber Shop

Salon Elements, Marcie Comstock

Grand Plaza Barber Shop, Josh Rylee

Favorite Skin Care Services Fort Smith Medical Center Tonya and Steve Beineman Saundra Loux

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Favorite Burger George’s Restaurant Alex Catsavis, with fries coming right up.

Favorite Bar & Favorite Pizza Papa’s Pub, Bill Neumeier & Pizza Man Mike Abshere

Favorite Fine Dining Favorite Catering Favorite Desserts River City Susan Tucker and Jason Haid, whose restaurant has outgrown its original name “deli” with their diverse cuisine.

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Favorite Greasy Spoon Favorite Pizza Buffet Larry’s Pizza, Daniel and Tracie Baker

Favorite Mexican Restaurant Favorite Patio Dining La Huerta, Alejandro Garcia, Filemon Denagos and Hector Torres

Benson’s Grill, Don Tate. who almost brought the five-pound can of lard to go with the spoon.

Favorite Full-Service Lunch Williamsburg Kitchen, Darlene Rogers

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Favorite International Fare Rolando’s, Allison Sbanotto, Tony Lopez, Carol Butler

Favorite Barbecue Ralph’s Pink Flamingo BBQ, Jeff and Ralph Taylor. Guess how many times they’ve won.

Favorite Late-Night Dining

Favorite Homestyle Dining

Village Inn, Roshelle White and Kaylah McBride, pie!

Calico County, Scott Blair and Lance LaRoche

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Favorite Dining Near Fort Smith (Tie) Steffy’s Pizza, Sam Boyce and LeAnn Steffy-Ellison

Favorite Dining Near Fort Smith (Tie) Catfish Hole, Rachel Pense

Favorite New Restaurant Bricktown Brewery, Kathy Young and Kristy Cox

Favorite Restaurant, Overall River City, Susan Tucker and Chef Jason Haid

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PROFILE

It’s Home Now

Photo by Kat Wilson

Stojanovic loves Fort Smith

obal travel is a normal experience today, but traveling across the world to call a new country home isn’t. Dusan Stojanovic, 22, arrived in Fort Smith from Belgrade, Serbia, in August 2011 to become a college student. His old world and new world are vastly different and Stojanovic thinks of Fort Smith as more of a home than just an experience. “My brother came first, two years before I did. I’m attached to him and he talked a lot about life in the U.S. I wanted to see for myself what life was like here and I was very pleased,” Stojanovic said during an interview. Besides the opportunity of exploring a new city and country, Dusan (Duci for short) received a basketball scholarship from the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith after his brother helped earn him a spot on the team. “They selected me because my brother recommended me to the coach as a good basketball player and then UAFS recruited me,” Stojanovic said. He grew up playing basketball, starting at 6 years old. He plays forward for the UAFS men’s basketball team. Moving to this particular U.S. city never occurred to Stojanovic until the opportunity presented itself. His first impressions of Fort Smith are both memorable and humorous. 20

Entertainment Fort Smith

February 2015

“It was summer when I arrived. When I set foot, it was so humid – unbearably hot. In Serbia, we have dry summers so even when it’s 100 degrees out, if you’re in the shade it doesn’t feel hot at all,” Stojanovic said. The town and the UAFS campus left a lasting impression on him. “It (the campus) was so clean; everything was perfectly arranged – from the parking lots and buildings, to all the houses around. It looked like everything was built brand new, unlike Serbia where we have very old buildings,” he recalled. Stojanovic’s travels brought him to Fort Smith, where he has lived for four years on an F-1 student visa renewed every two years. His local host family, Kevin and Mandy Page, has hosted other international students. Currently, Stojanovic holds senior status at the university, with a junior status in basketball. His basketball scholarship requires him to live on campus, giving him easy access to the gym for practices and the opportunity to get acquainted with teammates and fellow students. “I’m double-majoring in Media Communications and Rhetoric and Writing and would like to be a PR manager for a company or a news anchor,” Stojanovic said.

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Game photos by Carol Ann Hill

Dusan and his brother Djordje Stojanovic.

Photo by Heidi Stojanovic

Seeing Fort Smith through the eyes of this young man tells an exciting story. Stojanovic enjoys learning about the city and making memories at places unavailable to him in Serbia. “I am able to explore more things now and find places that in previous years I did not have access to. I’ve also turned 21 since being in the States and have had a lot of fun going out with friends,” Stojanovic said. He appreciates the restaurants and surroundings Fort Smith offers and wants to explore more of them. “I love steaks from Texas Longhorn and I like to go to the movies,” Stojanovic said. “My country offers movies, too, but I still enjoy going to them here – but I might just like that because of the popcorn.” He said he also enjoys the classic American fare at George’s and Benson’s Grill. His love for steaks and movies has not kept him from remembering his purpose for moving. “The biggest thing about living in Fort Smith right now is I get to play basketball, and get to go to school. I get to do what I like and not worry about anything else – that’s what UAFS has really offered me by coming here,” Stojanovic said. His biggest cultural shock about coming to Fort Smith is the difference in transportation. In Serbia, they walk mostly everywhere, but in Fort Smith, he noticed how people drive because of the city’s geography. “The way the city is set up, you need to drive from one place to another. In Serbia, we are a walking culture – everything is closer together and we have a lot more convenient-type stores. The roads are narrow, making it easier and safer to cross streets,” Stojanovic said. He obtained his driver’s license and a vehicle and describes driving as one of the fun perks of living in the United States. Stojanovic shared what truly charms him about Fort Smith. “To me, the thing that attracts me about Fort Smith is the people. They seem genuine and really nice; just good people. I had a host family when I first came here; they showed me a lot and gave me support and any help I needed,” Stojanovic said. He has plans to stay in Fort Smith and wishes to call it his permanent home. After graduation, he will apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT), which grants him a one-year, post-graduate extension. From there, Stojanovic is required to find a job in his degree field and apply for a working visa. “I’d like to get a job and stay and live here in Fort Smith. The city just appeals to me. I’m not big on moving so if I had to pick between moving somewhere else in the U.S. and staying in Fort Smith, I’d stay here because I’m familiar with the city and the people,” Stojanovic said. Like many newcomers, he sees Fort Smith as a place full of beginnings and opportunities. Hearing negative things about this city only gives him the desire to prove to people just how wrong they are. “I hear people around being critical about the city. The city doesn’t have to be perfect,” he said. “I love it here and I think those who bash it must not be satisfied in all parts of their lives, so they blame it on the city, in turn.” Stojanovic has embraced Fort Smith and – after just four short years – calls the city home. – Paige Stewart February 2015

Entertainment Fort Smith

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HOME & GARDEN

Bryan Penniman of Smith Auto Group, standing with a 2015 Corvette and Chevrolet Tahoe.

Smith Auto Group opens flagship Chevrolet and Cadillac showrooms

mith Auto Group has moved from one landmark location in Fort Smith and opened a newer, modern home that will quickly become just as notable. The light-filled, architecturally handsome Chevrolet and Cadillac showroom is now at 6500 Autopark Drive in Fort Smith, adjacent to a recently completed Smith Nissan facility. Both are easily accessed from I-540, Zero Street and U.S. 71. While on the corner of Towson Avenue and Zero Street for almost 50 years, what was a Chevy/Cadillac car dealership grew into the Smith Auto Group. John Smith Jr., a third generation family owner, now oversees a two-state operation with dealerships at Bella Vista, Ark., and Jane, Mo., in addition to its base in Fort Smith. In a nod to his grandfather Mose Smith, Smith also has moved its businesses offices to Garrison Avenue, just a few blocks from the company’s original, 1938 downtown location. Customer service is still Smith’s No. 1 priority, he said from a conference call. The Smith Auto Group operation, from the owner to every employee, has adapted to online communications to connect in every way modern customers now expect – and a few innovations that make selecting and maintaining a vehicle even more convenient. Smith’s on-site manager of operations, Bryan Penniman, explained that transparency, 22

Entertainment Fort Smith

February 2015

communication and information are key to their new style of car sales. “We've tried making the entire process of buying a new car or truck as easy and seamless as possible,” he said. Putting sales and service under one new roof is part of that effort, exemplified by the experience of being inside the dealership’s welcoming, open atmosphere. Cadillac owners can relax in a lounge and enjoy refreshments while watching technicians tend to their cars in an immaculate quick-service bay. There’s a Chevy customer lounge and a play area with a big screen for cartoons. With Smith’s new Hawkeye Elite quick alignment check system, an ASE-certified mechanic can check a car’s alignment, battery and run a complete on-board diagnostics report in less than 15 minutes. For buyers of pre-owned vehicles, Smith uses a “market-based pricing” method that compares all like vehicles within 250 miles. In the showroom, customers and salespeople survey computer screens together so the pricing is understandable. “We compare all of the vehicle’s features, mileage, history and condition then we post the price to the windshield. You won't find many dealers doing that anymore,” Penniman said. Buyers can be satisfied they’re being offered a fair price and value. Sales of pre-owned cars have doubled since 2013, when John Smith and Penniman launched market-based pricing.

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HOME & GARDEN

The spotless Cadillac service bay and lounge.

Because so many customers trying to find a car use the internet before coming in to the dealership, Smith’s inventory of hundreds of new and pre-owned cars is on its website with interior and exterior photos, video virtual walkarounds, fuel mileage, features and price. The sales team is happy to answer phone calls, emails or texts to help buyers hone in on choices. Use of today’s technologies is just an updated form of great customer service. Pre-approval for financing also can be applied for online. When it is time to buy, of course, customers still come in for a real-world test drive and tirekicking and that’s when they experience the best kind of relationship – a face-to-face conversation and warm handshake. Penniman complimented the Smith team for maintaining that great customer service while moving into a brand-new building with new computer systems, new parts inventory methods and new high-tech mechanical equipment. Smith Auto Group employees also are friendly out in the community. Their lively Facebook page is filled with pictures of team members in a myriad of activities such as serving their Partner in Education schools, in the Relay for Life as the “Pink Cadillac” team or making several generous donations to the Children’s Emergency Shelter. Smith Auto Group Chevrolet-Cadillac 6500 Autopark Drive, Fort Smith Open Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday 8 a.m.-5 p.m. 479-646-7301 smithautogroup.com

Smith’s team taking the ALS ice bucket challenge. February 2015

Entertainment Fort Smith

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home & garden goodies

Valentine arrangements and gift items, including ceramic pig planters and gazing balls, found at Neumeier Nursery and Florist.

Lampe Berger lamps and fragrance sets available at Now and Then Shoppe.

Chocolate Shop wine, Amaretto Di Amore gift set and Anthon Berg chocolate liqueurs from In Good Spirits.

Entertainment Fort Smith

February 2015

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home & garden goodies Magnetic clocks displayed on a metal platter from The Goods.

Old-fashioned Lost Trail sodas and Sioux City Birch Beer available from Paul’s Meat Market.

Bentley Plastics Razorback drinkware and pitcher found at Luther Stem Pools.

February 2015

Entertainment Fort Smith

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home & garden goodies

Vintage art deco coffee pots found at Abilities Unlimited.

Comfort Zone fan-forced heater with remote from Sutherlands. Jewelry Candle Co. soy wax candles with jewelry hidden inside. Available at Vanity Calls.

Entertainment Fort Smith

February 2015

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home & garden goodies

Decorative vases available at Yard Sale Find Design.

Oil painting with heavy, ornate frame found at Jo Waite Interiors.

February 2015

Entertainment Fort Smith

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home & garden goodies

Ty and GANZ Valentine-themed stuffed animals found at Coleman Pharmacy.

Piano and rose canvas from Creative Furnishings by Jean.

Hammary dice table available at Furniture Emporium.

Entertainment Fort Smith

February 2015

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FEBRUARY 8

Local, national and international runners will show who’s got grit in the Fort Smith Marathon

t the latest count available, runners from some 21 states and three foreign countries have registered to compete in the inaugural Fort Smith Marathon. With a 26-mile, 385-foot course through downtown and other scenic parts of town and additional halfmarathon and team relay races along the same course, the event will be a major athletic competition. “This one’s got grit” is the Feb. 8 race slogan. An official race website points out “Sure it’s February ... darn right the course is challenging ... but we didn’t earn the name ‘Hell on the Border’ for nothin’ and they didn’t hand out U.S. Marshal’s badges to just anybody. It took folks with ‘grit.’” Even more runners are expected to enter before the Feb. 8 race day. Register in advance online through the fortsmithmarathon.com website or Facebook page named Fort Smith Marathon, Half Marathon & Relays. To say “this one’s got grit!” is no overstatement. Winter temps and a route that begins on the riverfront near the U.S. Marshals Museum site, heads past the gallows and National Historic Site and continues eastward out Free Ferry Road are just the starting challenges. The route turns southward to climb to Hardscrabble Country Club area then re-crosses Rogers Avenue, where runners then face the grinding uphill grade of Miletree Drive. The next portion takes runners through Ben Geren Regional Park, climbs to the McClure Amphitheatre at Chaffee Crossing and demands one more uphill push on Old Greenwood Road before beelining down North B Street to the riverfront finish line. The scenic race course passes or includes as many city landmarks, parks and trails as possible. Proceeds will benefit Park Partners, a non-profit organization supporting the Fort Smith Trails System. The Parks Department, municipal government, law enforcement and Fort Smith Convention & Visitors Bureau are all pitching in to create a major spectacle and a mighty athletic contest and to promote the city. Volunteers are needed to offer hydration, directions and assistance to the racers. Local historic characters will attend to cheer on the runners.

Spectators are encouraged to watch the race start at 9 a.m. and see the exciting finish. As two confirmed entrants, Kenyan runner David Cheruiyot (personal record, 2:13.26) and his training partner Thomas Muthini Kyende are running, expect the leading marathoners to come in somewhere around 11 a.m. Be in place – new records may be set! The Eric Matthews Band will perform from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Riverfront Drive finish line as solo runners, half-marathoners and relay teams break the tape. The most up-to-date daily information about all the events of the day can be found online at both Facebook/Fort Smith Marathon, Half Marathon & Relays and fortsmithmarathon.com. Volunteer online, as well.

February 2015

Entertainment Fort Smith

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WHAT’S COOKING with KRISTAN ROLAND

Cake: 1 (18.25 oz.) box white cake mix 1 (3 oz.) box strawberry Jell-O 15 oz. container frozen sliced strawberries in sugar, thawed and pureed 4 large eggs 1/2 cup vegetable oil 1/4 cup water Ganache: 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips 1/2 cup heavy cream 11⁄2 cups powdered sugar Whipped Cream: 1 cup heavy cream 3 tbsp. powdered sugar Preheat oven to 350. Spray two 8- or 9inch cans thoroughly with nonstick vegetable oil spray and set aside. In the bowl of a mixer, combine cake mix, Jell-O, pureed strawberry mixture, eggs, vegetable oil and water. Beat on medium-high speed until smooth, about a minute and a half. Pour batter evenly in prepared pans and bake for about 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove cakes to wire racks and let cool in pans for about 5 minutes. Use a sharp knife to help loosen cakes from sides of pan if needed, then turn onto racks to finish cooling completely. For easiest handling, cover and chill cake in the refrigerator several hours or overnight. Alternately, you could cover cooled cake and freeze for about an hour. Ganache Frosting: In a microwave safe bowl, heat chocolate chips and cream, stopping to stir every 30 seconds until smooth. Set mixture 30

Entertainment Fort Smith

February 2015

aside to thicken and cool for about 30 minutes. Scrape mixture into mixing bowl and beat on medium high with powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy. Prepare whipped cream: Place metal mixing bowl and your mixer's whisk attachment in the freezer for 10-15 minutes. Pour cream and powdered sugar in chilled bowl and beat with chilled whisk attachment on high speed until a stiff whipped cream forms. Assemble cake: Using a serrated knife, carefully split each cake horizontally so you have four rounds. Place one round on plate, frost with 1/3 of chocolate frosting and repeat process until all but the top is frosted. Cover top of cake with whipped cream and spread to edges. Top with sprinkles or chocolate-covered strawberry.

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CHOCOLATE-DIPPED CHERRY VANILLA FUDGE 1/4 cup salted butter 2 cups granulated sugar 1 cup heavy cream 1/4 cup light corn syrup 1 cup mini marshmallows 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 11⁄4 cup red candied cherries 8 oz. chocolate almond bark L ine an 8x8 (or a 7 x10, which is what I used) pan with foil. Butter foil well and set aside. In a heavy saucepan, combine butter, sugar, cream and corn syrup. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring freq uently. Once candy starts boiling, insert a candy thermometer and cook until it reaches 240 (soft ball stage). Remove pan from heat and stir in vanilla and marshmallows until marshmallows are melted. Stir fudge with a wooden spoon until it begins to thicken and lose it's gloss. Fold in cherries and spread fudge in prepared pan. Chill fudge until firm. Remove from pan, peel back foil and cut fudge into sq uares. Chill fudge for a bit longer to get it good and cold. M elt almond bark according to package directions and dip half of each piece in the chocolate, letting excess drip off. Place on wax paper until set.

Check out Kristan’s blog at confessionsofacookbookqueen.com February 2015

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US MARSHALS STAMPEDE

This big soiree is going to swing!

hen a horse is described as “kicking up the dust,” that’s Western lingo for going fast. Another way a cowboy might say it is “gettin’ after it” – and that is certainly what supporters of the U.S. Marshals Museum are doing by throwing what may be the biggest party this town has ever seen: the U.S. Marshals Stampede. Chairpersons Mary Young and Kathy Babb have put the spurs to progress with a high-dollar but highly entertaining hoedown called “The Stampede,” featuring the legendary, Grammy-winning Western swing band Asleep at the Wheel and an evening of outstanding dining and dancing. As was promised at its hugely attended groundbreaking and 225th Marshals Service anniversary in September, the process of establishing a 50,000-square-foot, national museum here for the country’s original and oldest law enforcement agency is now going to go faster. To benefit the construction of the new museum, Stampede sponsorships of $3,000 to $50,000 are being asked. Top-level donors will receive, in addition to special “perks” and VIP treatment at the party, recognition on a permanent donor wall in the U.S. Marshals Museum. The Expo Center at Kay Rodgers Park will be transformed into a cinematic Old West town. From the moment party guests arrive, opening act Heath Wright and the Hangmen will be playing. At a rowdy saloon, entertainers Chris and Lolly will perform. Party-goers can drift over to casino tables to try a hand of Texas Hold ’Em or Blackjack while enjoying signature “Kickin’ Up the Dust” cocktails. If line dancing is not enough adventure, guests can try to hang on for eight seconds on a mechanical bull. Throughout the Stampede, live auctions and raffles will be held for prizes such as a commemorative Bass Reeves edition rifle or one-of-a-kind jewelry creation designed by Newton’s Jewelers. Dining will be presented in a lively style. Passed hors d’oevres of cracked pepper shrimp, brisket tostada and other Southwestern treats will be offered. A Hill Country Nosh Station will have cheeses, German sausages, fresh breads and spiced pecans. Beef is what’s for dinner at the Cowboy Carving Station, plus jalapeno pork chops and smoked pork ribs. A Cocktail Salad Bar provides the green stuff but a tempting dessert reception awaits. The starring entertainment will be the music of Asleep at the Wheel, keepers of the flame of Western swing dance music. Just days before the Stampede, the Austin band will release “Still the King: Celebrating the Music of Bob Wills & the Texas Playboys.” Tickets are $200; “Twilight” (concert only) tickets, $100, are available by phone or at the U.S. Marshals Museum office, 14 North 3rd Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-709-3766 usmarshalsmuseum.com 32

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Chairpersons Mary Young, left, and Kathy Babb have their boots on.

Ray Benson, center, and Asleep at the Wheel are the headliners.

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GARDENING

How to get the blues ... the kind you eat!

Gary and Verda Pense Loyd Pense with Ol’ Blue, the mule

Entertainment Fort Smith

February 2015

t was one of those rare winter days recently when the sun was shining, the temperature was predicted to reach the low 60s and my gardening thumb was itching to plant. I love ornamentals but last year, I pledged to include more edible plants in my garden. While feverishly flipping through a Southern Living Garden Annual checklist for February, I found my solution. February is the perfect month to plant blueberries. The darlings of the Super Food lists, blueberries contain unpronounceable but good stuff – polyphenol, anthocyanins and phytochemicals – that do everything from helping your heart to increasing your memory and acting as a natural antidepressant. Speaking of antidepressants, I decided that learning about a new plant required a road trip to a blueberry nursery. A quick search finds quite a few berry farms located on or near U.S. 71, which happen to be on the way to one of my favorite pie restaurants – Grandma’s House near Mount Gayler. Hey, I thought, maybe she will have blueberry cobbler! I could not contain my excitement as we turned into the pine tree-lined driveway of the Boston Mountain Nursery. “Y’all wanting to buy some berries?” That was our introduction to Gary and Verda Pense. As we walked past the spring fed-pond and an old log cabin toward the plants, Gary told the story of how his family, led by his father, Loyd, had started out very humbly. Eventually, the family gained national attention when they represented Crawford County as farm family of the year in 1966. Gary’s family did this with just hard work and Ol’ Red, the family mule. He showed me a fantastic photograph of his dad on the farm’s very first tractor with Ol’ Red looking over the fence at the new

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with REBA MIZE contraption. The tractor still has its price sticker on the front, in the “picture of a picture” I took. Many of the small fruit nurseries in the Ozarks are farmed by the Pense brothers. They ship their plants all over the country. While picking out my blueberry plants, Pense explained that blueberries produce the highest yield and sweetest fruit in a location with at least four to six hours of sunlight. They like regular water but not soggy soil and need an acid PH soil much like azaleas. Adding peat to the soil will help with this, as well as mulching with pine needles to protect the roots. Sherry Sanders, county extension agent in agriculture, and I had a great talk on the importance of pollination. Although Legacy, the variety of blueberry plant I chose, is a selfpollinator, we agreed that research shows a better and bigger berry when there are at least two varieties in a garden to cross pollinate. You guessed it. That gave me an excuse for another trip to the nursery. This time, I stayed in town and talked with my garden mentor Paul at Neumeier’s Nursery. We decided on a variety named Top Hat, which has a compact size that will also work perfect in a container. That means there is a blueberry-growing option in a pot on the patio. Blueberries are a perfect plant for someone who is getting started in the small fruit world. Think about walking out in your yard, picking and eating fresh blueberries! I was surprised to see that the plants themselves and their flowers are gorgeous and then you are rewarded with delicious fruit, no pitting or peeling, no thorns. They are very disease-resistant and my understanding is your only major problem is competition for the berries from birds and other family members. Our area is blessed with many nurseries that carry small fruits. It is interesting to meet them, hear their origin stories and get their advice face-to-face. Go online and you will find everything locally – from currants, gooseberries, raspberries, even a honeyberry. So far, I haven’t found huckleberries but Diana of Black Diamond Nursery said if I really want it, she will get it for me. Sure, you can order online and have the plants shipped to you, but how about making some choices online then enjoying the adventure of visiting our local nurseries? It’s a good idea to call ahead (they may be out in the fields) and the growers will even have your orders ready. So get growing. Get fruity! – Reba Mize

The blueberry flower is a pretty bloom to add to all the ornamental plants in the landscape.

This bush has colorful, red-tipped foliage before going bare-branched in late winter.

The pay-off we’re hoping for – bushes filled with delicious blueberries in our own yard. February 2015

Entertainment Fort Smith

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THE

SWEETEST TRADITION Musgroves refill 60-year-old Kopper-Kettle Candies Valentine’s box

he Musgroves, T.J. and Betty, know some traditions are sweeter than others. Married for 63 years, the Mansfield couple looks forward to Valentine’s Day each year, when they head to Van Buren’s Kopper-Kettle Candies to refill their heartshaped box with delicious chocolates. “Every Valentine’s, we come here with one of our boxes and I get her some of her favorite candies,” said T.J. “We came for the first time probably about 60 years ago.” The Musgroves have amassed a large box collection over the past six decades and, now, take their pick of which container to use each February. The unique carriers are quite sturdy and range in size and color. Some of the fancier boxes feature lace, while others sport velvet tops and brightly colored floral lids. The oldest box in the Musgroves’ collection dates back to the late 1950s or early ’60s and features a delicately patterned pink foil top. T.J. and Betty are among the many locals who have made KopperKettle Kandies a permanent part of their Valentine’s festivities. “We have a lot of wonderful customers who come in year after year to fill up their boxes with our candies,” said owner Berry Ann Greer. “We love seeing them and are proud to be a part of their tradition.” In recent years, the owners have begun snapping some of their most loyal patrons’ photos with their boxes and sharing them on Facebook. 36

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“I think we are pretty good customers,” joked T.J. “We’ve been coming a long time because the candy is delicious and we really love it. Mother (Betty) always wants me to bring in the bigger box when we come.” Although both are fans of the cream-filled Ozarkies, the two do differ on their favorite types of chocolate. “He likes the dark chocolate and I like the milk chocolate,” said Betty. “So, he fills up my box with the ones I like, and gets himself some of the dark chocolate ones. That way we are both happy.” Such compromise and good chocolates may very well have played in part in the success of the Musgroves’ long, happy marriage. “The preacher at our wedding made a motion with his hands like he was tying a knot and said, ‘I don’t tie any loose knots,’” joked T.J. “Guess ours has been holding for a really long time.” Couples wanting to follow in the Musgroves’ footsteps can start their own treat box tradition this Valentine’s Day. Kopper-Kettle offers a wide selection of unique boxes ready to fill up with customers’ favorite candies. The store makes all of its chocolates on-site, including an array of truffles, clusters, barks and more, in a wide variety of flavors. “Once people buy a box, they can come back year after year and only have to pay for the candy refill,” said Greer. “They can make it something special to look forward to, just like the Musgroves and so many other of our long-customers do. I’d say it’s a pretty sweet tradition.” – Brittany Ransom

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February 2015

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health & beauty goodies

Little girl’s fuchsia Piko-style shirt, fringed scarf and fleece leggings from Zoe Bug’s in Charleston.

Plush animals come with a recorder for capturing baby’s heartbeat. Available at Baby Flix.

Oliver Peoples Shaelie sunglasses found at Dr. Steven Stiles Optometry.

Entertainment Fort Smith

February 2015

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health & beauty goodies Vintage Siskiyou Buckle Co. Army and Vietnam veteran buckles and solid brass U.S.A. buckle from Designer Again.

Tano Love Let Her crossbody hobo bag in espresso. Available at Fashion Boutique. Knit character hats with tassels found at Marcia Cooksey Interiors.

February 2015

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health & beauty goodies

Print dress with butterfly sleeves and crochet accents, Pilar glass bead necklace and fringed ankle boots from Unique Boutique.

Aveda dry remedy hair care products found at Metropolis Hair Studio.

GMT Master II Rolex watch available at Newton’s Jewelers.

Entertainment Fort Smith

February 2015

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health & beauty goodies Tunic dresses with polka dots, lace and high-low hemlines found at Crane Clothing Co.

Red crossbody or clutch bag and jeweled frames from Jennifer’s Gift Shop at Sparks Medical Center.

Proti Diet fruity health drinks available at Bodé Couture.

February 2015

Entertainment Fort Smith

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health & beauty goodies

Swarovski eyewear accented with crystals from Ennen Eye Center.

Paper Belle personalized paper products and monogrammed shirt found at BrickCity Emporium.

Ginger Snaps interchangeable jewelry with button-type charms available at Red Leopard.

Entertainment Fort Smith

February 2015

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MUSIC & performance

Feb. 6-7 Willin-N-Able Willin-N-Able is Ben Gordon on upright bass and David Cross on acoustic guitar. Their unique cover songs include of a wide variety of music from the last few decades. Free. 9 p.m.-midnight. Bricktown Brewery, 318 Garrison Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-434-BREW bricktownbrewery.com

Alma Performing Arts Feb. 7-8 Star Spangled Girl - Dinner Theater Alma Performing Arts presents Neil Simon's “The Star-Spangled Girl,” a love triangle mixed with politics. Andy and Norman are radicals who work on a magazine dedicated to fighting "the system" in America. Sophie is an all-American, Southern girl who moves into the apartment next door. A comedy for all ages. Dinner is included in the price of the tickets. Tickets, $25 couples; $15 singles, available by phone. 6 p.m. Feb. 7; 1 p.m. Feb. 8. Alma Performing Arts Center, 103 East Main Street, Alma, Ark. 479-632-2129 almapac.org

S. Sean Six in Concert Classical guitarist S. Sean Six performs at the Blue Lion in a concert and musical

FEBRUARY homecoming. His musical career began at the age of nine when he rented an acoustic

guitar and began guitar lessons. From there, he learned a variety of genres such as folk, rock and blues from continued studies with private instructors. His start into classical guitar came under the late Paul Mendy, a master of Cuban guitar who taught from the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith and his home studio here.

It was through Mendy that Sean discovered the guitar and music masters: Giuliani, Sor, Carulli, Carcassi, Villa-Lobos, Weiss, Bach, Tarrega, Sanz and Mudarra to name a few. Because of his teacher, Six was introduced to Charles Wolzien, head of guitar studies at the University of Colorado at Boulder. There he completed his undergraduate studies under Dr. Wolzien's direction. Sean was a recipient of the Ted and Nancy Anderson Music Award. This is one of the most prestigious awards offered by the university’s college of music. He completed his graduate guitar course work at the University of Denver and continues to take master classes from renowned guitarists. He worked as a contract musician for the former classical music station of Denver, KVOD, was a featured performer on the University of Colorado, Artist Series, and his performances have been aired over the Colorado Public Radio and Television Networks. Six released an album of classical guitar music titled “Water” in 2012, and he currently composes and teaches in Denver, Colo. General admission $10; $5 for UAFS students. UAFS Blue Lion, 101 North 2nd Street, Fort Smith, Ark.

Feb. 6 Elvis Lives This concert extravaganza will take you on a musical journey across the life of Elvis Presley; the King of rock ‘n’ roll. Talented artists portray Elvis in the ’50s, the ’60s, his movie career and final concert years: Dean Z, Jay Dupuis and Bill Cherry. A live band, backup singers and dancers join them onstage, with Carol Maccri as Ann Margret and iconic imagery made available from the Graceland archives. This blast from the past is a must-see for all Elvis lovers and fanatics. Tickets range from $32-62. 8 p.m. Walton Arts Center, 495 West Dickson Street, Fayetteville, Ark. 479-443-5600 waltonartscenter.org Feb. 8 Robert Sims, Lyric Baritone The McDonald Music Series 2014-2015 season continues with a concert by Robert Sims, lyric baritone. Described by the Chicago Tribune as “stunning, dazzling and sublime,” Sims will perform a range of repertoire from spirituals to Broadway favorites. Free. 3-4:30 p.m. First Presbyterian Church, 116 North 12th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-8919 1pres.org Robert Sims February 2015

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MUSIC & PERFORMANCE Feb. 12-15 Julius Caesar Theatre@UAFS will perform a rendition of William Shakespeare’s classic drama “Julius Caesar.” So that both male and female university students would have the opportunity to perform, this production does not adhere to gender roles. The drama chronicles the historical assassination of the title figure and the ensuing civil war that results and contains some of the Bard’s most memorable lines. Almost 30 students make up the cast and crew. The play is directed by Bob Stevenson, director of the UAFS theater department. $6; free with UAFS identification. 7:30 p.m. Feb. 12-14; 2:30 p.m. Feb. 15. UAFS Breedlove Auditorium, 5120 Grand Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-7300 uafs.universitytickets.com Feb. 12-22 Pride and Prejudice A new adaptation of Jane Austen's classic novel tells of five daughters, their zealous matchmaking English mother, and a string of unsuitable suitors. Elizabeth, the most independent of the girls, has no interest in suitors until she meets Mr. Darcy. A most romantic story for the most romantic month. Directed by Duff Taylor. Curtain rises at 7:30 p.m. Doors open at 6:45 p.m. Sunday matinees begin at 2 p.m. Doors open at 1:15 p.m. $10, $25 for opening night gala. 7:30 p.m. Fort Smith Little Theatre, 401 North 6th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-2966 fslt.org

The Lettermen Feb. 14 The Lettermen in Concert The Lettermen have had 16 Top 10 singles in their more than 50-year history as an American male pop music vocal trio. They have achieved 32 consecutive billboard Magazine chart albums, 11 gold records, and five Grammy nominations. Hit songs include "When I Fall in Love," "Goin' Out of My Head," "Theme from a Summer Place", and more. 8 p.m. Alma Performing Arts Center, 103 East Main Street, Alma, Ark. 479-632-2129 almapac.org Feb. 14 Heart & Soul Cafe The Heart & Soul Cafe is a fun and elegant way to celebrate Valentine's Day and support youth scholarships for music lessons and mission work. A fine dining experience will be served by church youth who have been trained in the art and skill of elegant serving. Dinner music is provided by Southtown Music staff and accomplished students and Odis Elevator and the Flights Jazz Trio. Seating at 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Childcare is available for $5 per child, a meal included. Proceeds support local youth music scholarships and mission work. Tickets $30 per person. 5:30 p.m. St. John's Episcopal Church, 215 North 6th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-782-9912 stjohnfs.org or southtownmusic.com. 46

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MUSIC & PERFORMANCE Feb. 17-22 Camelot Experience Camelot’s "one brief shining moment" as Lerner and Loewe envisioned it in one of theater’s most legendary musicals. Recount the timehonored legend of King Arthur, Guinevere, Lancelot, and the Knights of the Round Table in an enchanting fable of chivalry, majesty, and brotherhood in this four-time Tony Award-winning show. Seven shows. $36-$70. Walton Arts Center, 495 West Dickson Street, Fayetteville, Ark. 479-443-5600 waltonartscenter.org

Michael W.Smith Feb. 15 An Evening with Michael W. Smith Contemporary Christian music artist Michael W. Smith has sold more than 15 million albums, scored 28 No. 1 hits, won three Grammys, numerous Dove Awards and an American Music Award. For more than three decades, he has embraced current pop/rock sounds without blurring his identity as a Christian singer/songwriter. "Sovereign," an album with new songwriting and production ideas, is his first studio-recorded release featuring original material. The album debuted at No. 1 on the Christian Albums chart. $26-$58. 6 p.m. Grand Avenue Baptist Church, 3900 Grand Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-5161 shofarconcerts.com

Feb. 20 Cajun Dance Homesick Louisianans and everyone who enjoys Cajun-style dance parties can feel at home with Jamey Hall and the Cajun Flavor Band playing both Cajun and zydeco music. The band promises to perform original, traditional and Cajun dance hall music with accordion, rub board and guiro. Folks will teach the classic steps to dancing the Cajun way. $7. 7-10 p.m. Cavanaugh Senior Center, 2700 Cavanaugh Road, Fort Smith, Ark. For more information call Bobby Cline, 918-413-1225 Feb. 23 Jekyll & Hyde The epic struggle between good and evil comes to life on stage in this all new production of the musical phenomenon, Jekyll & Hyde. Based on the classic by Robert Louis Stevenson and featuring a thrilling score of pop rock hits from multi Grammy and Tony nominated Frank Wildhorn and double Oscar and Grammy winning Leslie Bricusse, this musical has

Season of Entertainment mesmerized audiences all over the world. Tickets available through the UAFS Box Office or online. 7:30 p.m. ArcBest Corp. Performing Arts Center, 55 South 7th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-7300 uafs.universitytickets.com

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MUSIC & PERFORMANCE Feb. 26 Rhonda Vincent & the Rage A five-time Grammy nominee, famously crowned “The New Queen of Bluegrass” by The Wall Street Journal, Vincent adds savvy contemporary touches to her music, while drawing deeply from the authentic traditions of classic bluegrass. As an accomplished multi-instrumentalist, she is renowned for mastering the progressive chord structures and fast-paced vocals intrinsic to bluegrass music. $17-$37. 7 p.m. Walton Arts Center, 495 West Dickson Street, Fayetteville, Ark. 479-443-5600 waltonartscenter.org Feb. 26-28 Be My Baby An odd and older twosome travels to bring a child to a young couple for adoption. When they are stuck in San Francisco for several weeks, they find friendship and common ground while caring for the child. 7:30 p.m. Fort Smith Little Theatre, 401 North 6th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-2966 fslt.org Feb. 27 The Australian Bee Gees Show The Australian Bee Gees Show has nostalgia, a little bit of romance and a lot of dancing for all the disco lovers. This tribute band will let the audience experience a celebration of over four decades of the infectious music and astonishing, sometimes haunting, harmonies performed by the Brothers Gibb. “How Deep is Your Love” for this influential trio? Tickets range from $22-$52. 8 p.m. Walton Arts Center, 495 West Dickson Street, Fayetteville, Ark. 479-443-5600 waltonartscenter.org

Feb. 28 Arkansas Trombone Workshop - Final Concert This concert is the culmination of the University of Arkansas Trombone Workshop and is free and open to the public. 6 p.m. Stella Boyle Smith Concert Hall, Fine Arts Center, 116 Fine Arts Center, Fayetteville, Ark. 479-575-4703 music.uark.edu

Feb. 28 Southern Gospel Celebration A Southern Gospel concert featuring Karen Peck and New River, the Perrys and Mark Bishop will benefit the Salvation Army. A donation of one canned good is requested. Tickets $18-$26 available at Solid Rock Bookstore, 8304 Phoenix Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. and by phone. 6 p.m. Van Buren Fine Arts Center, 2001 Pointer Trail, Van Buren, Ark. 479883-8131 vbsd.us/FAC

Gospel Singers Feb. 27-28 Old Time Gospel Hour Tickets are now on sale for the Academy of the Arts Old Time Gospel Hour, which includes area choirs and soloists all coming together for a concert of gospel music. Old time hymns and Southern gospel are all part of the program. Hear local artists like Barry Law, Pam Camp, Lacey Thomas, a men's gospel quartet, Rosilee Russell, Gini Law, and several area church choirs. Concerts are 7:30 p.m. Feb. 27 and 2 p.m. on Feb. 28. For tickets, contact the UAFS Box Office at 788-7300, or order online at universitytickets.com. Tickets will also be available at the door. $15. UAFS Breedlove Auditorium, 5210 Grand Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-7300 uafs.universitytickets.com

Audience Sing-Along Feb. 28 Pitch Perfect The audience is invited to sing along with a subtitled screening of the fan-favorite film "Pitch Perfect," first released in 2012 and directed by Fayetteville native Jason Moore. The movie tells the story of a jaded college freshman who unwillingly enters the world of cut-throat, collegiate a capella, only to find that's exactly where she belongs. Not only will audience members get to watch and sing along with this hilarious musical movie, this screening kicks off Walton Arts Center’s brand new VoiceJam A Capella Festival, April 10-11, with an announcement of the competition finalists taking place that night. Practice the "Do-Re-Mi's," grab some popcorn and get ready for this special, one-night only event. 8 p.m. Walton Arts Center, 495 West Dickson Street, Fayetteville, Ark. 479-443-5600 waltonartscenter.org Feb. 28 Miranda Lambert in Concert Fresh off the success of her highly successful, summer Platinum Tour, CMA Entertainer of the Year nominee Miranda Lambert presents her Certified Platinum Tour. BOK Center, 200 South Denver, Tulsa, Ark. 1-866-7-BOKCTR bokcenter.com March 5 UAFS Musical Theatre The UAFS Musical Theatre will present an evening of musical theater and light opera, with songs from the great American songbook and some of the mostenduring Broadway musicals. The young vocalists and musicians bring a high level of energy to the performance, which is certain to delight listeners of all ages. Tickets available through the UAFS Box Office or online. 7:30 p.m. ArcBest Corp. Performing Arts Center, Rogers Avenue and South 9th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-7300 uafs.universitytickets.com Submit Music & Performance events for publication at efortsmith.com’s “Add Event” database. Each event should be submitted by the venue, not the individual artist. Submit photos by emailing to calendar@efortsmith.com. Notification must be received and verified by the magazine by the 10th of the month prior to the date of the performance.

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KIDS CALENDAR Feb. 2 Primetime Story Time: Happy Chinese New Year! Celebrate the Chinese New Year with special guest, University of Arkansas-Fort Smith instructor Mrs. Hui Wang Apple. This fun and informative story time will include stories, songs, crafts, refreshments, and special displays focusing on the Chinese New Year. Free. 6 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org Feb. 2, 9, 23 Tweens & Teens Time Choose from a selection of board games to play. Invite a friend and join in the fun. Free. 3:30 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 Feb. 3, 17 Club Scrub Ms. Chris of UAMS will show some fun science experiments and encourage students to continue growing in knowledge by pursuing the field of science. Free. 1:30 p.m. homeschooled students; 3:30 p.m. children, tweens & teens. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 Feb. 3-24 Baby & Me Babies and caregivers can enjoy songs, finger plays, a story and play time, including everyone’s favorite, bubble time. Free. 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045

Celebration features Tommy Terrific Wacky Magic Show The Fort Smith Public Library’s annual Black Heritage Celebration is an inspiring, informative and entertaining celebration of African American history and heritage. This year's all-ages event will feature magician Tommy Terrific's educational magic show about Satchel Paige and Negro League Baseball. The show will be filled with baseballthemed magic tricks and explore the life and accomplishments of baseball pitcher Satchel Paige. Dr. Paul Adams, associate professor of chemistry and biochemistry at the University of Arkansas-Fayetteville, will also appear, sharing remarks about his personal journey and career as a researcher and scientist. A display of library materials related to African American history and heritage will also be featured. Free. 2 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org

Feb. 3-May 17 UAFS Academy of the Arts Classes Begin Academy of the Arts has several classes beginning in February for children and teens. Art classes for students grades 1-9 begin Feb. 3 (grades 5-9) and Feb. 5 (grades 1-5). These classes explore all types of visual art from drawing to painting and more. Classes meet weekly from 4-5 p.m. and end in April. An art exhibit and tour are scheduled. The Academy Playerz musical theater company for children grades 3-6 begins Feb. 3 and runs through May 17. The company will be performing the 70-minute production of “Schoolhouse Rock Live.” All students who register will get to perform in the show. The company meets each Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 4-6 p.m. Open to the first 30 registrants. Lots of singing, dancing, and acting. Private lessons in piano, voice, instrumental, dance and drama for 10 weeks begin the week of Feb. 16. Open to students ages 3-adult. Tuition varies. Registration office open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. UAFS Echols Building, 504 North Waldron Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-7253 uafs.edu/academy Feb. 3 Valentine Cooking Class Teens will be cooking up some tasty treats for Valentine’s Day. 4 p.m. Free. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 Feb. 3-24 Mulberry Preschool Story Time Feb. 3, stories with Mayor Baxter; Feb. 10, Valentine stories and crafts; Feb. 17, Winter Mix; Feb. 24, Cold! Cold! Cold! Free. 10 a.m. Tuesdays. Mulberry Public Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226 February 2015

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KIDS CALENDAR Feb. 4-25 Alma Preschool Story Time Feb. 4, Groundhog Day stories and craft; Feb. 11, Valentine’s Day stories and crafting a Valentine flower; Feb. 18, Presidents Day theme in stories and a mask craft; Feb. 25, friendship story time with books and songs celebrating friendship and the chance to make a friendship bracelet. Free. 10 a.m. Wednesdays. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 Feb 4-25 Preschool Story Time Story time this month will feature shadows, Valentine’s Day, Mo Willems’ birthday and dental health. Free. 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. Wednesdays. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 Feb. 4-25 Cedarville Preschool Story Time Wednesdays are story time days. Feb. 4, Groundhog Day; Feb. 11, Valentine’s Day; Feb. 18, Owls; Feb. 25, Dr. Seuss’ Birthday. Free. 10 a.m. Wednesdays. Cedarville Public Library, 737 Pirates Way, Cedarville, Ark. 479-410-1853 Feb. 5 Alma Library Valentine’s Day Craft Craft a Valentine Day card for special people in their life. Free. 4 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 Feb. 5-26 All Ages Thursdays Young or old, all are welcome to have fun on Thursday afternoons. Lego time Feb. 26; crafts and games on the other days. Free. 3:30 p.m. Thursdays. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 Feb. 6-27 Nature Break Join the nature center staff for a 30-minute nature break activity for 3- to 7-year-olds. Free. 3:45 p.m. Fridays. Arkansas River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-3993 Feb. 9, 23 Laptime Story Time There will be rhymes, songs, simple stories, and lots of interactive fun. The story time will last around 20 minutes, with time afterward for casual interaction. Free. 10:30 a.m. Miller Branch Library, 8701 South 28th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-646-3945 Feb. 9 Cuentos para Niños en Español Niños de todas las edades y sus familias están invitados a la Biblioteca principal a la hora de los cuentos gratis, incluiremos cuentos, historias, canciones, refranes y otras actividades divertidas en español. Ven y aprende acerca de la Biblioteca y lo que tiene para ofrecer a tu familia. Gratis. 6 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org Feb. 10, 24 Tweens and Teens Time Enjoy crafts and fun. Free. 3:30 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 52

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It’s Terrifying Toddler Time!

y toddler is going through the phase of life where she has turned into a tiny evil person. It’s desperate. It truly is. It’s a whole day of hitting and pinching and saying no to anything that doesn’t involve cookies. Sometimes I wonder if she’s really working alone. Is there some kind of toddler Facebook group they communicate on? Because this whole assault on my mental health feels incredibly organized. It’s a consistent schedule of rejecting what she deBallgowns are for Mondays. manded for breakfast just a few moments earlier — always in favor of some random, elusive item. Red and green chocolate chips buried in my baking cupboard from Christmas? A tiny jar of fancy mustard I’ve had since 2004? Honestly, it’s like she’s Beyonce. One of these days she will demand her apple juice be diluted with water melted from the iceberg that hit the Titanic. I won’t even flinch, you guys. That’s how worn down I am. Then, of course, there’s Getting Dressed Drama. It’s like I haven’t been putting clothes on her every morning for her entire life. Does she have clothes amnesia? Is getting dressed so upsetting that she blocks out the trauma? I stand there like some kind of toddler clothes saleswoman, trying to sell my 2year-old on why clothes are good, pointing out how beautiful Elsa’s hair is on her $9 Target T-shirt, look at how badly Doc McStuffins wants her to wear this sweatshirt with her face on it! I’ve lost any trace of pride I might have had, every day by 10 am. This alone is enough to explain why I drink wine and have crazy eyes. But do you want to know the very worst part? Lucy acts like a perfect angel for everyone else. Just once, I want to come home to my husband, her Gram, her babysitter — and see that defeated Sparkly headbands are for bedtime. look in their eyes. Lucy standing triumphantly in the center of the living room – she’ll be naked, lipstick smeared on her pudgy belly, 14 sparkly headbands stacked atop her messy hair. Perhaps an entire bag of Goldfish crackers will have been dumped on the floor, ground into the carpet like orange sand as she walked on them wearing boots she stole from my closet. At that moment, I’ll start to feel a trace of pity. But only for a moment. Because pity will be replaced with overwhelming triumph as they utter those seven magic words. “I don’t know how you do it.” Is that selfish of me? I mean … probably. But the heart wants what the heart wants. Guest Writer Kristan Roland

We have invited guest writers to share their parenting experiences.

Necklaces are for movies.

Meltdowns are for ... well, anytime.

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KIDS CALENDAR Feb 11, 25 Teen Time Wednesdays Have a great time with science experiments and cooking. Free. 3:30 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark . 479-474-6045 Feb. 12 Library Daddy-Daughter Sweetheart Dance Girls are invited to attend this Daddy-Daughter Sweetheart Dance with their fathers, grandfathers or other important adult male figures in their lives. The fun will include music, dancing, crafts and refreshments. Free. 6-8 p.m. Miller Branch Library, 8701 South 28th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-646-3945 Feb. 12 Valentine Craft Kids 6 and up can make someone special their very own Valentine. Free. 4 p.m. Mulberry Public Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226 Feb. 12 Heart Mosaics Make a Valentine’s craft for someone special. Free. 3:30 p.m. Cedarville Public Library, 737 Pirates Way, Cedarville, Ark. 479-410-1853 Feb. 13 Friday the 13th Campfire Fun Enjoy an evening campfire where the education staff shares spooky, family-friendly stories. Take a blanket or lawn chair. Free. 6 p.m. River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-3993 rivervalleynaturecenter.com

The Ugly Duckling/The Tortoise and the Hare by Lightwire Theater The classic storybook tales "The Ugly Duckling" and "The Tortoise and the Hare" are brought to life by Lightwire Theater, with dazzling visuals, poignant choreography and creative use of music ranging from classical to jazz to pop. Recommended for children 3-11. Call for tickets. $15 adults; $10 children. 9:30 a.m. Alma Performing Arts Center, 103 East Main Street, Alma, Ark. 479-632-2129 www.almapac.org

Feb. 15 Family Movie Night Enjoy a free, family-friendly movie at Evangel Temple. Open to the community. Children are encouraged to wear PJs and free popcorn is provided. Free. 6-8 p.m. Evangel Temple, Towson and Dodson Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-782-9121 excitingET.com Feb. 17 Melted Crayon Art Learn how to make word art using melted crayons. Teens will then make their own masterpiece using the techniques they have learned. Free. 4 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 Feb. 19 Mardi Gras Mask Craft Create your own festive Mardi Gras mask so you will be ready to celebrate. Free. 4 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 Feb. 20 Science Program Ms. Chris from UAMS will share a science program

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for kids of all ages. Free. 3:30 p.m. Mulberry Public Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226 Feb. 26 Movie Time Toddlers, preschoolers and children can celebrate Dr. Seuss’ birthday with a movie. Free. 3:30 p.m. Cedarville Public Library, 737 Pirates Way, Cedarville, Ark. 479-410-1853 Feb. 28 Fort Smith Parks Father-Daughter Dance The Fort Smith Parks & Recreation Department presents this annual dance for daughters and fathers. The special evening this year offers the option of following a Western theme. Those who are brave enough can try to ride “Bruno” the mechanical bull. Western attire is welcome. Snacks and photos are included in admission price. Tickets are available in advance at the Creekmore Park Recreation Center. $10. 7-10 p.m. Fort Smith Convention Center, Exhibit Hall C, Rogers Avenue and North 9th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-784-2368 fortsmithparks.com

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Feb. 1-22 Archery A beginner’s guide to archery. Bows and arrow provided, along with safety and instruction every Sunday afternoon. Free. 2:30 p.m. Sundays. Arkansas River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-3993 rivervalleynaturecenter.com

BOBBY BURTON

CALENDAR of events

Feb. 1-28 Photography by Bobby Burton An exhibit of the original photography of Bobby Burton will include works from across the country, with a focus on the photographer’s back yard; Arkansas, the Natural State. Burton, the general manager for The Daily Record newspaper in Little Rock, has spent the last three years learning landscape photography. As he travels around Arkansas and other areas in the United States, he tries to capture the mood of places he visits, with the goal of helping people feel as if they are there in the moment. Free. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229

The Fort Smith Museum of History will celebrate the birthday of native son and World War II hero Gen. William O. Darby with a party, speakers and a multi-media presentation. Born in Fort Smith on Feb. 8, 1911, Darby graduated from Fort Smith High School and the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, N.Y. Gen. Darby is known for the formation of the Army Darby’s Rangers during World War II. Darby’s Rangers distinguished themselves in combat in North Africa and Europe. Darby was killed in action on April 30, 1945, at Torbole, Italy. During his career, Darby received three Purple Hearts, two Distinguished Service Crosses, the Silver Star, the Legion of Merit, the Russian Order of Kutuzov and the French Croix de Guerre. Army Rangers of today honor the legacy of Gen. Darby. Visit the (permanent) Darby Room at the museum and view a rare interview with Maj. Warren "Bing" Evans. Evans was battalion sergeant major to then-Col. Darby and offers a fascinating description of Ranger training and the devastating Battle of Cisterna. The video will be introduced by guest Terry Toler, who speaks to honor his father, Bill, 5th Ranger Battalion C, invaders of Omaha Beach on D-Day. The General Darby Legacy Project to erect a bronze statue of Darby on Garrison Avenue will be represented by Joe and Liz Berry Armstrong. The legacy project also is sponsoring a program especially for students at Darby Junior High School with a distinguished guest speaker. $5 adults, $2 children, under age 6 are free 1-2 p.m. Fort Smith Museum of History, 320 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-7841 fortsmithmuseum.org

JIM ANDERSON

General William O. Darby Birthday Celebration

Feb. 1-28 Photography by Jim Anderson Original works by photographer Jim Anderson will be on display at Dewey’s Café. Anderson is a schoolteacher and a photographer of the natural landscape. He resides in Van Buren with his wife Theresa, and has traveled and photographed in all 50 states always looking for natural settings and natural lighting. His award-winning photographs can be seen in local banks and law offices as well as at exhibits in several state parks in Arkansas and Oklahoma. This special library exhibit will include pictures of the Natural State and other regions across America showcasing the changing colors of fall. Free. Dewey's Cafe at the Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Tulle apron with silver rickrack, 1950s

Apron Strings: Ties to the Past The apron is the subject of a fascinating reevaluation in this exhibition. Apron Strings: Ties to the Past features some 51 vintage and contemporary examples that review the apron’s role as an emotionally charged vehicle for expression with a rich and varied craft history still viable today. Using aprons from the late 1930s through the present, the exhibition chronicles changing Man’s barbecue attitudes toward apron,1950s women and domestic work. It also surveys the wide range of design and craft techniques apron-makers have used to express themselves, while still working within creative venues traditionally available to women. A program of ExhibitsUSA. Opening reception 5-7 p.m. Jan. 29. $5; free for members. Open 11 a.m.- 6 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday, 1-5 p.m. Sunday. Fort Smith Regional Art Museum, 1601 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-784-2787 fsram.org

Feb. 1-28 Blind Date with a Book Teens (ages 13-17) are invited to stop by any Fort Smith library in February to pick up a “Blind Date with a Book.” As your date will be dressed in paper wrapping, you won’t know the genre, author or title of the book until you take it home and unwrap it. How did the date go? Was there a “Love Connection?” Would you two go out again? The library wants to hear all about it. Write a book review to say if you liked it and be entered into a prize drawing. Free. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org Feb. 1-28 Critter Crunch Daily animal feelings include snake feeding on Friday and fish feeding on Saturday. For the rest of the week, stop by at 2 p.m. to see which critter is having lunch. Free. 2 p.m. Arkansas River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-3993 rivervalleynaturecenter.com Feb. 2 Daughters of the American Revolution Program The program will be "Presentation: Essay Winners; Good Citizens" The good citizen awards will be presented by Nancy C. Robertson, committee chairman. 1:30-3 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, Community Room, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-632-3889 Feb. 2-23 Learn to Dance Like the Stars and Jump and Jive with the Swing Mike and Lisa Lawrence teach beginners dance lessons from 7:30-9 p.m. and advanced lessons from 6:30-7:30 p.m. every Monday night. The type of dance changes on the first Monday of every month for both beginners and advanced. The dress attire is casual. Open to the public. $5. 6:30-9 p.m. Eagles Ballroom, 3321 South 66th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-674-2578 Feb. 2-28 Miller Branch Artist of the Month – Dennis Russell Photographer Dennis Russell returns to the Miller Branch Library during the month of February, with an exhibition focusing on people and their pets. Nature and pet photography are his two passions. This particular show will focus on his efforts to capture special moments for people and their pets, including chickens, snakes, opossums, ferrets, dogs and cats. Russell’s love of photography has helped him win several photo contests; many of his pictures are on display at local businesses. Free. Miller Branch Library, 8701 South 28th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-646-3945 fortsmithlibrary.org

Rooster embroidery, 1940s Photo by Dennis Russell 56

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Dr. Harry P. McDonald and other men and women of significant community relevance will be added to the Fort Smith Museum of History’s Black History Exhibit. Feb. 3 Black History in Fort Smith In celebration of Black History Month, the Fort Smith Museum of History will add new faces to the Black History in Fort Smith exhibit. Learn the stories of Dr. Harry P. McDonald, Sebastian County Deputy Sheriff Donald J. Talley, his friend George Hudgens and Crawford County educator Linda Sloan Norwood. Harry Pelot McDonald, M.D., began family practice in Fort Smith in 1949 and served as family physician to nearly all African Americans in western Arkansas and many in eastern Oklahoma. In 1952, he had the distinction of being the first black physician admitted to the Sebastian County Medical Society and the Arkansas State Medical Society. For more than a decade, Dr. McDonald served as president of the Fort Smith NAACP, where one of his most important achievements was the integration of the Fort Smith public school system. He was appointed to the Arkansas State Board of Education in 1978 by Gov. David Pryor, and reappointed in 1987 by Gov. Bill Clinton. In 2014, a bench was dedicated to Dr. Harry P. McDonald at the Elm Grove Community Center in Fort Smith. The ongoing exhibit may be viewed on the second floor of the museum. $5 adults, $2 children, under 6 free. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday, Fort Smith Museum of History, 320 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-7841 fortsmithmuseum.org Feb. 3 TrailBlazers Full Moon Hike TrailBlazers Hiking Club will hike under the full moon starting at the disc golf parking lot at Ben Geren Regional Park. This three-mile hike is rated moderate. Neither rain, sleet, snow, nor dark of night will keep the Trailblazers from having a great adventure! Interested hikers (newcomers always welcome) should meet at the disc golf parking lot and take a flashlight. 5:30 p.m. Ben Geren Regional Park, 7200 Zero Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-646-9562 thcfs.com

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Feb. 3-26 Yoga at the Park The classes are beginner level for all ages and sizes. Yoga helps with breathing, focus, lowers blood pressure and improves range of motion. Yoga mats are provided. $5 in advance; $7 drop-in. 5:30, 6:46 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. Creekmore Park Community Building, 3301 South M Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-459-2187 Feb. 3-28 Niloak Pottery: An Arkansas Favorite The Fort Smith Museum of History’s exhibit of its

extensive collection of Niloak Pottery continues.

Fort Smith Museum of History, 320 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-7841 fortsmithmuseum.org Feb. 6 Meet and Mingle Dance Looking for a place to make new friends? Enjoy great bands and the largest dance floor in town in this smoke-free environment. $5 members; $7 guests. 811 p.m. Fraternal Order of Eagles 208, 3321 South 66th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-5888 EaglesEntertainment.com Feb. 6 Miss University of Arkansas Pageant Entry Deadline The 2015 Miss UAFS Scholarship Pageant and Princess Program at UA-Fort Smith have set a Feb. 6. application deadline for those interested in participating in the events. The pageant will take place 7 p.m. March 14 in the ArcBest Performing Arts Center, Rogers Avenue and South 9th Street. The winner automatically qualifies for the Miss Arkansas Scholarship Pageant. The 2014 Miss UAFS Scholarship Pageant featured 24 contestants and awarded more than $19,000 in cash and scholarship awards, with Emily McCollom Reigning Miss UAFS of Fort Smith Emily McCollom crowned as the winner. The Princess Program, a separate activity, allows girls ages 5-10 to appear on stage during the Miss UAFS pageant. Participation for the program is $100 per child. Girls receive a tiara, tickets to a tea party, a T-shirt, goodie bag, two tickets to the Miss UAFS Scholarship Pageant and a group photo with Miss UAFS and Miss Arkansas. Application forms are available at missarkansas.org. For more information, contact Sherry Card at 479-788-7301 or by email at sherry.card@uafs.edu. Registration forms for the Princess Program are available by contacting Angela Lamon at 479-788-7788. Tickets for the Miss UAFS Scholarship Pageant are $10, available at uafs.universitytickets.com/ or at the UAFS Box Office located in the Campus Center. UAFS Campus & Community Events, SmithPendergraft Campus Center, 800 North 49th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-7301 February 2015

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February CAE Exhibits “The Joy of Exploration,” Paintings by Bob Crane “Making Her Mark,” Works of Monica Moore The Center for Art & Education will hold an opening reception from 1-4 p.m. Feb. 8 for artists Bob Crane and Monica Moore, whose works will be exhibited throughout February. Crane is primarily a watercolorist but also enjoys using oils and any medium that helps him express the feeling of a particular piece of art. Moore’s artwork will include many forms of media, including digital photography and editing, drawing and painting with oil pastels and acrylic painting on cotton/vintage sheets. Her art work goes through multiple “iterations,” and each method incorporates these multiple forms to show a different perspective of the same original image. Free. Center for Art & Education, 104 North 13th Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-7767 art-ed.org

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Lilies – A Wild Pair, by Monica Moore. Feb. 6, 20 Crochet and Knitting Learn to crochet or knit at the library. All ages and experience levels welcome. Take yarn and size G or H hook. Free. 10 a.m.-noon. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark 479-474-6045 Feb. 7 Celebrate Trinity This fundraiser brings the Caribbean to Fort Smith. Warm up with sounds by Bluffett, a Jimmy Buffett cover band, great food and drinks, a live and silent auction, raffle and games by the Knights of Columbus. $60, $75 at the door. 6:30 p.m. Trinity Activity Center, 1205 South Albert Pike, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-782-2451 Feb. 7 The Community Strikes Back Bowling Tournament The Fort Smith Children’s Emergency Shelter and Commissary Kiwanis Club will host its annual bowling tournament fundraiser. Sign a team up today and help strike out child abuse and neglect. All bowling tournament proceeds will benefit the CES. Silent auction and prizes will be offered to participating teams. $120 per team of four. 12:30 p.m. Bowling World, 6100 South 36th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-242-5771 childrensemergencyshelter.org Feb. 7 TrailBlazers Mount Magazine Hike TrailBlazers Hiking Club will hike at Mount Magazine State Park. Starting on the North Rim Trail, hikers will head to Cameron Bluff Campground, then up and over Signal Hill, the highest point in Arkansas, to the lodge for a lunch break. From the lodge, the hikes goes to Mossback Ridge Trail, then back to the visitors center for approximately 6 to 6.5 miles, rated moderate. Meet at Home Depot parking lot in Fort Smith to carpool/caravan. Free. 8 a.m. Mount Magazine State Park, 16878 Street, Highway 309 South, Paris, Ark. 479-646-9562 thcfs.com 58

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Feb. 7 It Don't Mean a Thang: A Musical and Literary Journey through African American History Experience a journey through African American history accompanied by great music and literature at this black history month program. The Windsor Branch Library, in partnership with the ladies of Delta Sigma Theta, invites everyone to enjoy an afternoon of wonderful local musical talent. An inspired young person will also read their contest-winning black history essay. Refreshments will be served. Free. 3 p.m. Windsor Branch Library, 4701 Windsor Drive, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-785-0405 fortsmithlibrary.org Feb. 7-28 Guided Hike at the Nature Center A member of the Nature Center’s education staff leads a hike every Saturday morning. Dress for the weather and don’t take a camera. Free. 10 a.m. River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-3993 rivervalleynaturecenter.com Feb. 7-28 LaserShot Sharpen hunting skills every Saturday afternoon with a computer program similar to a video game, complete with laser gun. Free. 3 p.m. Arkansas River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-3993 rivervalleynaturecenter.com Feb. 8-16 Online Auction for General Darby Legacy Project This online auction event was created to help raise funds for the General Darby Legacy Monument, which will serve to honor the memory of Gen. Darby for his contributions during World War II and his ultimate sacrifice as the founder of the U.S. Army Rangers. Find out how to participate or bid for items at 479561-0493 or darbylegacyproject.com

Feb. 9 American Legion Post #31 Family Dinner A short program, followed by dinner. $5. 6:30-8 p.m. American Legion Post #31, 4901 Midland Boulevard, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-782-6719 Feb. 9 Book Talk This month, read and discuss the book “The Rosie Project” by Graeme Simsion. The first 15 attendees will receive a free copy of the book. Free. 7 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 Feb. 9 The CALL Information Meeting Crawford and Sebastian counties have more than 600 children in the foster care system. Learn how to help with the foster care crisis in our community. Become a foster family or a volunteer to support fostering. 68:30 p.m. Mulberry First Assembly of God, 314 Heard Avenue, Mulberry, Ark. 479-651-8816 thecallinarkansas.org Feb. 9 Senior Movie Monday This movie, rated PG-13, was inspired by the true story of one butler who served seven presidents. Free. 1:30 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 Feb. 9 - March 16 Knitting for Beginners Designed for those that have no prior knitting experience, this course will teach the basics of beginning knitting. Needles and yarn will be provided for the first class only, and then participants must purchase their own supplies. Learn the building blocks to creating wonderful knitted items. Learn how to cast on and knit simple stitches. $5. 6-7 p.m. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5004 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Feb. 9-March 16 Aikido 1 Aikido is a powerful and dynamic martial art that stresses the avoidance of inflicting injury and the peaceful resolution or conflict whenever possible. This class is designed for beginners and more advanced students to learn the core components, gain valuable practice time or master more advanced moves. Wear comfortable clothing. Students at all levels of fitness are welcome and the exercises can be tailored to ability. $45. 6:30-8 p.m. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5004 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning Feb. 9-March 16 Digital Photography 1: SLR Basics Understand the principles of digital photography and all those buttons on an a new SLR, or unlock the power in all those icons. Learn to recognize and build the elements that make a good scene into a great photograph. This course introduces students to the basics of landscape and casual portrait photography. Students provide their own SLR digital camera. Some photo expeditions outside the classroom will be taken. $85. 6-8 p.m. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5004 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning

An Arkansas Story Book Talk: Camp Nine

10 Adults and seniors discuss the book “Camp Nine” by Vivienne Schiffer, in which the character Chess’ life becomes intertwined with those of two young internees and an American soldier mysteriously connected to her mother's past. As Chess watches the struggles and triumphs of these strangers and sees her mother seek justice for the people who briefly and involuntarily came to call the Arkansas Delta their home, she discovers surprising and disturbing truths about her family's painful past. In the novel “Rook” and “Camp Nine” are fictionalized versions of the historical real locations of Rohwer, Ark., and the Rohwer Relocation Center in Desha County, one of two sites in the United States where 16,000 Japanese Americans were incarcerated by order of the government between 1942 and 1945 when America was at war with the country of Japan in World War II. Free. 6 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 60

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6th Annual Van Buren High School “Empty Bowls” Meal Art students of Van Buren High School have created hand-thrown and glazed ceramic bowls, no two alike, that attendees may purchase and fill to enjoy a humble meal of delicious soup and bread, shared with other members of the community. The bowl is then washed and taken home as a reminder of the "empty bowls" in our community and the world. The money raised will go to the Community Service Clearinghouse "Meals for Kids" Program, which provides food for students to take home for the weekend. The backpacks are filled with non-perishable, ready-to-eat foods. The program serves area children who leave school every Friday and may not eat again until they have breakfast Monday morning in the school cafeteria. This means that these youngsters are in peril of missing as many as seven consecutive meals. The “weekends-without-food” phenomenon produces a state of continuing malnutrition that results in academic and social deficiencies and failures. By taking home the discreetly provided backpack of food, students return to school and are more alert, have more energy and tend to become more engaged with their schoolwork. All it takes is a recommendation from the school for a student to begin receiving a backpack with enough food for all the children in the household. Professional nutritionists select the array of foods delivered each week. The backpacks include juice, cereal, pudding and fruit cups and a source of protein such as meat sticks or Vienna sausages, as well as crackers and treats. The Community Service Clearinghouse packs and sends home almost 2,800 backpacks of food weekly with area schoolchildren in five surrounding Arkansas counties and two counties in Oklahoma. The program is sustained with the help of the United Way and many more donors, civic and church groups and individual volunteers such as the art students of Van Buren High School. “Empty Bowls” is one of the most imaginative fundraisers supporting the backpack program. Tickets can be purchased at the door. $15. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Van Buren High School, 2001 Pointer Trail East, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6821 vbsd.us

Feb. 10-19 RAD for Women The Rape Aggressions Defense system is a training program teaching realistic self-defense tactics and techniques for women. The RAD System is a comprehensive, women-only course that begins with awareness, prevention, risk reductions and risk avoidance that progressing to the basics of hands-on defense training. RAD is not a martial arts program. Courses are taught by nationally certified RAD instructors and provide each student with a workbook/manual to keep and opportunity to return to the program for practice. Limited to 15 students. Women in the class most be 16 years or older. $45. 6-9 p.m. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5004 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning Feb. 10-March 3 Which Wine When Explore red and white, sweet, dry and sparkling wines and learn to pair them with foods. Local winemaker John Trickett explains how wine is made and what gives each its own taste. Wine tasting is done outside of class, homework will be fun. Must be 21 or older to participate. $35. 6-8 p.m. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5004 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning Feb. 12 Van Buren Chamber of Commerce Prime Time Expo At Van Buren Chamber of Commerce's Prime Time Expo, new members will be in the spotlight for all the community to see. The chamber will showcase its stars with a A Night at the Oscars-themed business exposition that will include delicious food, music and movies and great networking opportunities. Participants will set up booths for visitors to browse, ask questions and learn about all the great things 62 Entertainment Fort Smith February 2015

chamber members have to offer. Booth space will be exclusively available to new members who joined during the November 2013 drive or in the months that followed, and participating volunteers. Participants are encouraged to be creative with their displays and dress. A panel of "critics" or judges will select winners for numerous "Academy Awards." Categories include Best Dressed Actor/Actress in a Leading Role, Best Dressed Booth and Best Screenplay, which will focus on the content and information provided by participants to visitors at the event. Visitors and participants will also enjoy delicious food, as well as movie clips and soundtracks from some of the most beloved films of all times. Guests will also have the chance to take home door prizes that will be offered by participating vendors. Booth space and sponsorships are limited. Deadline to reserve a booth or sponsorship is Feb. 3. Free admission. 5:17 p.m. Boys & Girls Club of Van Buren, 1403 City Park Road, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-2761

This council was created for the purpose of providing feedback and strategic advice from area hiring managers, business owners and other valued sources in order to develop WorkFortSmith into a powerful recruiting tool for our region. Reservations required by Feb. 6; email miles@goyeinc.com. Free, courtesy of sponsorship by local business donors. 5:30 p.m. Adelaide Hall at Bricktown Brewery, 318 Garrison Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. workfortsmith.org 479-782-4693

Feb. 12 Keyboard/Mouse Beginner Class A basic beginning class helps students learn the components of the computer and practice keyboarding skills. Practice and learn the basics with other beginners. $10. 9-10 a.m. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5004 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning

Feb. 12-March 5 Computer Basics Level 1 Learn the basics of computing in the company of other beginners. Use practical hands-on exercises to learn about operating systems and basic applications. Create, sort and filter files, manage and understand security settings, keyboard shortcuts and get questions answered in a welcoming atmosphere. $40. 10 a.m.-noon. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5004 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning

Feb. 12 WorkFortSmith Networking Event WorkFortSmith, a business-led volunteer council created to increase quality employment in the area, will hold its first networking happy hour. Enjoy hors d’oeuvres and two complimentary drink tickets. Network and learn about WorkFortSmith and connect with employers from across the region to discuss solutions to common hiring and recruiting obstacles.

Feb. 12 Pinterest Party Learn to make a special bookend found on Pinterest.com, a website from which the library is sharing ideas with adults and seniors. The bookend is found at blog.darice.com/home-decor/glitter-deerdiy-bookends. Free. 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140

Feb. 13 BINGO for Books Play, meet new friends and win books. Everyone will go home with at least one book. Free. 10-11 a.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045

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Regional Art Museum has a Rendezvous in Casablanca A night of intrigue, romance, live music, an open bar, appetizers, meal, dessert, raffle prizes and lots of fun surprises, this annual fundraiser will be held on Valentine’s Day. Suggested attire: black and white with a touch of red for romance; white linen dinner coats for men, conflicted-butultimately-devoted bias-cut satin gowns for women; noble resistance fighter suit and hat, wildly patterned Moroccan chic – or dress as your favorite character in your favorite scene from the classic film. Well, maybe pass on the Nazi uniforms. If you miss this fun evening, you may regret your decision – “maybe not today, maybe not tomorrow, but soon and for the rest of your life.” This annual gala supports the museum’s diverse exhibitions and educational programming. Reservations are requested by Feb. 2 by phone, online or at RAM. Must be 21 to attend. RAM members, $75; non-members, $100. 7-10 p.m. Fort Smith Regional Art Museum, 1601 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-784-2787 fsram.org

Feb. 13 Mardi Gras 2015 - The Best Party in Town! As the Fort Smith Museum’s largest annual fundraiser, Mardi Gras is extremely important to its financial stability. Get a jump on Valentine’s Day celebrations and dare to have fun on Friday the 13th! The evening begins at 6 p.m. with cocktails, music by the Don Bailey Jazz Combo, a Cajun dinner catered by Emmy’s, the always exciting live auction and dancing to the music of Tom Ware, Gary Hutchison & Friends. Tables $750; $850 for premium. Premium tables include an authentic King Cake baked by the museum curator, Connie Manning. $75 per person. 6-11 p.m. Fort Smith Museum of History, 320 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-7841 fortsmithmuseum.org Feb. 13 Speed Dating/Speed Friending Meet a new date at the library, the day before Valentine's Day. Find a date for the holiday or just make a new friend in this timed social introduction activity for adults 18 and older. Free. 6-7 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 Feb. 13 Practice Ballroom and Swing Dance This fun dance is also a great practice opportunity that features an array of music oriented toward ballroom, Latin, swing and polka dancers. A local DJ provides the music. Attire is casual. This dance is open to the public in a great social atmosphere and smoke-free environment. Instructors are available for assistance. No club affiliation or membership required. $5. 8-10 p.m. Eagles Ballroom, 3321 South 66th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-674-2578 Feb. 13 Eagles Valentine's Dinner and Dance Mac Moad and Silent Thunder offer music for dancing following a steak dinner that includes baked potato, salad and dessert. All proceeds support the Fraternal Order of Eagles' seven local charities. Tickets available at the door. 6 p.m. Fraternal Order of Eagles, 3321 South 66th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-5888 64

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Feb. 13, 27 Redwork Embroidery All experience levels are welcome to learn or work on their own redwork embroidery. Take supplies, make friends and learn new patterns. Free. 1-3 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark 479-474-6045

Feb. 14 Valentine's Day Saturday Dinner The regular Saturday dinner at Fraternal Order of Eagles falls on Valentine's Day. A dance follows at 8 p.m. with entertainment by Stuck on Seven band. 6 p.m. Fraternal Order of Eagles, 3321 South 66th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-8288

Feb. 14 Post Winery Valentine Dinner with Wine Pairing Enjoy a romantic, five-course dinner at the Trellis Room at Post Winery, prepared by Chef Terese Post. A winery tour and wine tasting will be given by winemaker Luke Holcomb and wine specialist Lee Green prior to the meal. Seating is limited; make reservations in advance. $65. 5-9 p.m. The Trellis Room at Post Winery, 1700 St. Mary’s Mountain Road, Altus, Ark. 479-468-2741

Feb. 16-March 2 Beginner Beekeeping Class A short, complete course on beekeeping. Class meets Monday evenings from 6-9 p.m. on Feb. 16, 23 and March 2. Call or visit "Fort Smith Bee Class" on Facebook to print out registration form. Class size is limited to 175. The last two years' classes had a roster of 210, so register soon. Fees include club membership for the year. $12 for individuals or $18 for family. 6-9 p.m. River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-208-9949 Facebook/Fort-Smith-Bee-Class

Feb. 14 TrailBlazers Hike to Sam's Throne TrailBlazers Hiking Club will hike to Sam's Throne, one of the premier climbing spots in the Ozarks. Hikers will head out to Chicken Point, then down and across the valley floor to Sam’s Throne, climb the crack to the top and enjoy the great views of the surrounding bluffs, valley and mountains. This is an easy-tomoderate hike of about 4 miles. Meet at Cloverleaf Plaza parking lot, Van Buren to carpool/caravan. 8 a.m. Sam's Throne Recreation Area, Highway 123, Mt. Judea, Ark. 479-646-9562 thcfs.com Feb. 14 Valentine's Day Tea with Herbal Adventures Master Gardeners From green tea to hibiscus, from white tea to chamomile, teas are full of flavonoids and other healthy goodies. The Herbal Committee of the River Valley Master Gardeners will present a gracious and educational tea tasting event, hosted by Hannelore deKunffy. Learn the history of tea and European tea customs. Wear a hat and gloves and have your picture taken in tea party regalia to remember the day. Herbal refreshments provided. $20. 9:30 a.m.-noon. Reynolds Cancer Support House, 3324 South M Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-782-2104

Feb. 17 Cookbook Club In celebration of Great American Pie Month, take your best pie to the library’s cookbook club and learn new recipes. Free. 5:30 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark 479-474-6045 Feb. 17 Duck Calling Luring waterfowl with ducks calls. Learn about modern duck calls and how to use them. Free. 6 p.m. River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-3993 rivervalleynaturecenter.com Feb. 19 Taste of China Celebrate the Chinese New Year while participating in the UAFS Read This! program highlighting "The Joy Luck Club" by Amy Tan. Meet with current UAFS students from China and learn a little of their life and customs while enjoying a tasty meal at a local restaurant. $35. 1 p.m. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5004 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Feb. 19 Dewey’s Café Open Mic Night Musicians, poets and other talented folks are invited to perform. Register at the door and arrive early to ensure a spot on the list. Showcase a talent or just come and listen. Music or poetry does not have to be original work – come and share a favorite poem or musical piece. Acoustic music only, please. Free. 7 p.m. Dewey's Cafe, Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org Feb. 20 Food For Thought: Why Hunter Education? Hunting is an extremely popular outdoor activity in Arkansas; safety and respect for the environment are important components in having a fun and successful hunt. David Matlock with the Westark Wildlife Conservation Club speaks about the importance of hunter education and how to sign up for a class that begins in March. Anyone born on or after Jan. 1, 1969, must complete a hunter education course and carry a valid hunter education card to hunt in Arkansas. Take a lunch or pick it up at Dewey's Café. The library will provide drinks and dessert. Free. Noon. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org Feb. 20-22 Homebuilders Home Show With dozens of vendor exhibits and new products booths staffed by friendly, reputable and professional experts, visitors can learn and see everything available in this area offering services and goods in home construction, home upgrading, energy savings, interior decoration and more. The three-day show includes special speakers and fun door prizes. Fort Smith Convention Center, Rogers Avenue and South 9th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. Feb. 21 Alma's Project Graduation Zumbathon Get sweaty for a good cause and help Alma 2015 Project Graduation raise money for a graduation party. All proceeds help to fund a fully supervised drug and alcohol free graduation celebration. $10. 10 a.m.-noon. Alma's Preforming Art Center, 103 E Main St, Alma, Ark. (479) 632-2129

Sacran to lead workshop at Crea8tive Arts Studio

Suggestive Figures in Landscapes: Art Workshop led by Jason Sacran will be held at Cre8ive Arts Network Visual Art Studio (CAN~VAS). This will be Sacran’s only workshop in this area for 2015 as he is booked for many other venues nationally. Sacran and his family also support Sunshine Box Project and offer several paintings for the program. In honor of Jason and his success, the studio will also have a drawing for art supplies, studio space and a year membership. $100, workshop and lunch included. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Cre8ive Arts Network Visual Art Studio, 7408 Buckhorn, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-357-9079

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Clayton House Family History Share features the Pryors of Fort Smith Enjoy the first of the Clayton House museum’s new Family History Share series, a monthly history program with a slide show presentation about a family who has practiced law in Fort Smith for more than 100 years. Retired attorney Thomas B. Pryor III will show and discuss slides reaching back to the early life of his grandfather, Thomas Brady Pryor, born in 1869. The senior Pryor earned his law degree in 1893 while living in Greenwood and began a Fort Smith practice in 1908. The second Thomas Brady Pryor worked with his father at the firm for 25 years, and the speaker practiced there from his 1956 law school graduation to his retirement in 2006. Pryor will also share the Harris and Ward family roots of his mother, Dorothy Harris Pryor, reaching back to Frances Marion Ward, a captain in the Union Tom and Lorna Pryor and “Pudo,” named by their granddaughter. Army of the Civil War era who raised his family in the Fort Smith area. In addition to viewing pictures of life in Fort Smith of past years, enjoy refreshments and piano music in the authentically restored circa 1882 Clayton House beginning at 1 p.m. The home, filled with 19th century furnishings and featuring original woodwork, was the home of the nine-member William H. H. Clayton family. Clayton served as U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Arkansas beginning in 1874 and prosecuted more than 10,000 cases in the court of Judge Isaac C. Parker. Reservations are required and accepted by phone. Free for members, $10 for non-members 1:30-2:30 p.m. The Clayton House, 514 North 6th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-3000 claytonhouse.org Thomas B. Pryor Sr.

Feb. 21 14th Annual iTri Sparks Indoor Triathlon Open to the first 100 individuals who return their completed registration form and entry fee. Team divisions consist of all-male, all-female, and mixed. Teams can be 2 or 3 racers. Age divisions include male and female 12-15, 20-29, 40-49, 60+, 16-19, 3039, 50-59. Awards include best overall male, best overall female, awards three-deep in each age group and in all male, all female & mixed teams. Ceremony to follow soon after last participant crosses finish line. Proceeds go to The Gregory Kistler Treatment Center, Inc. Additional donations are greatly appreciated. Events include a 500-yard pool swim, 8-mile stationary bike, 3-mile run on track. Entry fees are individual, $45 (late $55); team, $25 per member (late $30). Fees vary for each event. 7 a.m. Marvin Altman Fitness Center, 810 Lexington Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-441-5469 Feb. 21 Eagle Tour & Loon Watch Watch eagles from the refuge's webcam then take a tour by bus. After lunch, make your way to Tenkiller State Park for more eagles and lots of loons. Free. 9 a.m. Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge 107993 South 4520 Road, Vian, Okla, 918-489-5641 Feb. 21-June 1 Van Gogh to Rothko Exhibit This grand exhibition brings together 76 artworks by 73 influential artists from the late 19th century to the present. See masterpieces by prominent names in art history including van Gogh, Picasso, O’Keeffe, Dalí, Kahlo, Warhol and Rothko. The works were selected from the collection of the Albright-Knox Art Galler of Buffalo, N.Y. This is the first time many of these works have toured in decades. General admission, free. 66

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Crystal Bridges is open 7 days a week. Crystal Bridges Museum 600 Museum Way, Bentonville, Ark. 479418-5700 crystalbridges.org Feb. 22 Immaculate Conception 45th Spaghetti Dinner This traditional annual community event features delicious food, fun, and fellowship. Tickets are available at the door, from IC students, or by calling the school office. $10 adults. $5 children. 4-7 p.m. Immaculate Conception Msgr. Galvin Parish Center, 22 North 13th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-6798 Feb. 23 E-Reader Class Need to learn how to enjoy the E-reader device you received for Christmas? Library staff teaches all ages how to download and read books on electronic reader devices. Free. 7-8 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 Feb. 23 Basic Yoga All ages are welcome to learn Basic Yoga at the library for free. 3-4 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 Feb. 24 So You Keep Hearing About Montessori – A Book Club for Everyone Learn more about how to help your child reach their greatest potential. Current parents or anyone interested in learning more about Montessori education can examine the method, principles and learn what makes a Montessori classroom different from a traditional classroom, as well as how to apply the method at home. Presented over six weeks, each session can stand alone or be combined with others.

Refreshments provided. Other dates: March 3, 10, 17, 31 and April 7. $25, includes book; free without. 5:307 p.m. Fort Smith Montessori, 3908 Jenny Lind Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-646-7225 fsmontessori.com Feb. 24-March 21 Yoga Learn to relax body and mind while improving flexibility, alignment, strength and coordination through hatha-style yoga. All levels welcome. $45. 23 p.m. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5004 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning Feb. 25 Understand China: 6000 years in 60 minutes! In keeping with our Chinese theme for ReadThis, local expert Hui Apple shares a brief history and images of China. $5. 1-2 p.m. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5004 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning Feb. 25-March 18 Photoshop 2 Elevate your skills as your output becomes more complex. Learn shortcuts, tips and tricks to push the boundaries of image manipulation. $55. 6-8 p.m. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5004 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning Feb. 26 Welcome Neighbor Book Club The book "The Leper" by Steve Thayer will be reviewed. All women are welcome to attend.12:301:30 p.m. Dewey's Cafe, Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-459-1603 WelcomeNeighborFtSmith.weebly.com

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Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia will be guest speaker in Rockefeller Lecture U.S. Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia will be the speaker for this inaugural Winthrop Paul Rockefeller Distinguished Lecture Series. Justice Scalia has served as an associate justice for the U.S. Supreme Court for more than 27 years and is the court’s longest-serving justice. U.S. District Judge Henry E. Hudson of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia will introduce Scalia. Judge Hudson is a former director of the U.S. Marshals Service under President George H.W. Bush. The event is free, but reservations are required. Seats may be reserved by emailing rsvp@usmarshalsmuseum.com. Justice Antonin Scalia Schools should contact the museum for group reservations. Free. 12:30 p.m. Fort Smith Convention Center, Rogers Avenue and South 9th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-709-3766 usmarshalsmuseum.com

Feb. 26 Come Back to Me with All Your Heart: Lenten Day of Recollection The season of Lent is an enriching opportunity to tend the seed once sown in the ground of our being. It’s a good season for a heart check-up – a time of offering the heart. This mini-retreat can assist participants in a variety of ways. Lunch included. Registration deadline is Feb. 12. $50 with a $20 non-refundable deposit. 9:30 a.m. St. Scholastica Retreat Center, 1205 South Albert Pike, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-1135 stscho.org/retreat-registration Feb. 27 Diamond Ballroom Dance The Diamond Dance Club holds a public ballroom dance. Mike Lawrence and his HUA Band will provide recorded entertainment. Attire for men is coat and tie or tuxedo; ladies, dress or gown. Club membership is not required. Smoke-free night club environment. $10. 8-10 p.m. Eagles Ballroom, 3321 South 66th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-674-2578 Feb. 28 TrailBlazers Hike to Eagle Gap TrailBlazers Hiking Club will hike from Eagle Gap to Foran Gap on the Ouachita Trail, a distance of 9.6 miles, rated strenuous. During leaf-off, there will be

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some nice views of the mountains and valleys as hikers ascend for 900 feet before dropping back down. Meet at Home Depot parking lot in Fort Smith to carpool/caravan. 7:30 a.m. Ouachita National Forest, Highway 59/270, Mena, Ark. 479-646-9562 thcfs.com Feb. 28 Sparks Health System Heart Expo Sparks Health System wants to help change local health statistics with a day of information on healthy eating, fitness, weight loss, how to quit smoking, heart screenings and more. Screenings by registration. Free. 9-2 p.m. Fort Smith Convention Center, Rogers Avenue and South 9th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-709-3627 sparkshealth.com Feb. 28 The Heart Truth Women's Luncheon Dr. Nasser Adjei, interventional cardiologist, and members of the Sparks Cardiology Center discuss how to care for your heart and improve overall health. At the Heart Expo, free education and heart screenings are offered. Registration required for lunch. Free. Noon-1 p.m. Fort Smith Convention Center, Rogers Avenue and South 7th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479709-3627

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Feb. 28 Faux Finishes Workshop by Jay Lane Want to learn techniques such as mixing ratios for glazes, textures and stenciling? This workshop covers those concepts and more. Supplies included. Lunch provided. $75. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Cre8ive Arts Network, Inc., 7408 Buckhorn at Chaffee Crossing, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-357-9079 Feb. 28 Parents and Teachers: Learn About Community Service Opportunities for Students Students, parents or teachers looking for unique and fulfilling community service opportunities can learn about the Sack Lunch Program in this brown bag lunch/workshop. It will provide an overview of the program, a tour of the facility and describe community service opportunities that are available for students. Registration required. Free. 11 a.m.-noon. St. John's Episcopal Church Office Building, 214 North 6th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-782-9912. Feb. 28 ASL Workshop Learn enough American Sign Language to start a conversation or talk with your infant in a short, ASL Intensive Workshop. The class teaches basic finger spelling and more than 200 signs. Learn the basics and practice in a welcoming learning environment. Begin to communicate with any deaf person. Handouts provided. $45. 9 a.m.-noon. Center for Lifelong Learning at UAFS, 5004 Kinkaid Ave, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning March 3-17 Will You Outlive Your Money? A retirement planning seminar will answer your mostpressing questions. Subjects include estate and asset protection strategies and minimizing the effects of an ever-changing economy on your portfolio. $40. 6-8 p.m. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5004 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning March 4 Seldom Seen: Rare Birds in Arkansas UAFS professor of biology Dr. Ragapthay Kannan is an expert in birdlife and has led many birding tours to international locales. His talk focuses on the rare species seen here in Arkansas. $5. 1-2 p.m. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5004 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning March 4-6 Discovering Nature’s Visual Treasures en Plein Air: Workshop by Rob Rencher Learn the principles of design and how to utilize them in creating a work of art on location. Learn to interpret the landscape through conceptualization. Members: $375; non-members: $400 10 a.m.-5 p.m.Fort Smith Regional Art Museum, 1601 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-784-2787 fsram.org March 4-11 Landscape Planning Hear about new ideas, new looks for your yard or how to start from bare ground. James Brandli, with 20 years of experience in landscaping and design, helps attending gardeners create a plan. Materials provided. $45. 6-8:30 p.m. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5004 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-7220 February 2015

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Fort Smith Firefighters host St. Patrick’s Day Parade Members of the Fort Smith Fire Department, especially during the past several years, have embraced many fire service traditions. Now, the firefighters have taken on sponsorship of an annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Tery Graves, battalion chief for the department, said, “We’ve participated in St. Patrick’s Day parades in the past. As of last year, the organizers could no longer stand up a parade and we wanted to bring back the parade this year, as a way to say thanks to our citizens for supporting us.” Firefighter Ethan Millard’s great-great-grandfather and grandfather were both firefighters in New York. The decision to organize the St. Patrick’s Day parade is steeped in the rich history of the fire service, he explained. “Early in our nation’s history, Irish and Scottish immigrants came to the U.S. and were shunned. Jobs weren’t available to them, so they joined the fire service. The job is dangerous today, but it was even more dangerous then. It was back-breaking work. They did the jobs no one else wanted. They served their fellow man, protecting life and property. In the fire service today, we stand on their shoulders. Commemorating St. Patrick’s Day is our way of honoring their courage and professionalism,” Millard said. The Fort Smith Fire Department’s outstanding pipe and drum corps will perform along the parade route. The corps is an all-volunteer organization, funded entirely through contributions among members, fundraisers and private donations. School groups, car clubs, civic organizations and individuals are invited to join the parade. “It may be as simple as showing up in green and walking or roller skating or biking with us along the route,” Graves added. The event’s Facebook page will have registration information and line-up details at Fort Smith Firefighters St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Parade begins at 3 p.m. Free. Garrison Avenue, Downtown Fort Smith, Ark.

March 5-May 24 Anne Reichardt: The Orlanda Series Opening A March 5 reception for artist and fine arts photographer Anne Reichardt will open her exhibit, the Orlanda Series. The exhibit of 70 works includes cibachrome and hand-painted photographs of live models depicting both color and energy of the ascending chakras (energy centers) of the “subtle body.” Reichardt grew up in Fort Smith and practiced as a psychiatrist before retiring to Arkansas. Refreshments provided. Free for members; nonmembers: $5. 5-7 p.m. Fort Smith Regional Art Museum, 1601 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479784-2787 fsram.org 70

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March 5-April 30 Danse Orientale Belly dance is an exquisite way to build strength, gain flexibility and long life infused with the mystique of feminine grace and movement. Class offers a thorough warm-up, basic belly dance technique, drills, finger cymbals and choreography. Classes are inspired by the Suhaila format. Led by Shannan Rose. Music will be available to each student. $50. 6:30-8 p.m. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5004 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning

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How to contribute to Entertainment Fort Smith’s

Calendar of Events

To submit events to this magazine: Once you have confirmed all the details of an upcoming fundraiser, performance, educational event, art exhibit, activity or program, submit it to the magazine in print or electronically. There are two ways to send in your event. Email to:

calendar@efortsmith.com or enter it online at:

efortsmith.com > Add Event

Our Calendar of Events entry form asks

all the required questions! When is the deadline?

the 10th of every month* *one month before your event happens

May I mail it to you it instead? E Fort Smith Calendar P.O. Box 1341 Fort Smith, AR 72902

Yes.

May I phone it in?

No. Put it in writing, please. May I call with questions?

Yes! 479-494-1888

Full editorial guidelines about what we publish are found online at efortsmith.com/events/guidelines.com • Events should be entertaining or educational • Events should be public; free or low-cost • We do not publish commercial notices • We may suggest you place a display ad • Events submitted late may still appear online

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Civil War in the West tour to visit four states On April 8-10, explore key Civil War sites in four states in honor of the 150th anniversary of the Civil War in an excursion presented by the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith Center for Lifelong Learning. Enrollment for the tour is open now. Historian Tom Wing, who teaches history and historical interpretation at UAFS and is the director of the Drennen-Scott Historic Site in Van Buren, will lead this three-day tour, visiting major battlegrounds and traveling over strategic arteries in Arkansas, Missouri, Kansas and Tom Wing Oklahoma. Wing is also an avid historical re-enactor, both for interpretive history presentations and for his own interest and enjoyment. Discover firsthand the importance of the central states as a gateway to the West for both sides. Hear echoes of battle at Prairie Grove, Ark., and Wilson’s Creek, Mo. Ride the paths of men and munitions over Telegraph Road between Springfield, Mo., and Texas Road to Honey Springs, Okla., the site of a significant battle involving Native and African Americans for control of Indian Territory known as the Battle of Elk Creek. Stop at Fort Scott, Kan., to replenish supplies and prepare for one of the largest cavalry battles in the history of the war at Mine Creek, Kan. The three-day, two-night tour’s tuition fee is all-inclusive with seven meals. The group will travel by motor coach. Fees are $360 per shared room and $525 for a single room. To enroll, contact the UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5004 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning February 2015

Entertainment Fort Smith

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DINING GUIDE

Favorites awards mean a lot to restaurants – We don’t have to ‘egg on’ these showouts

ou, the readers, pick your “Favorites” each year. We get the fun of notifying and photographing them. Picture Day for Favorites is always a blast, especially when it comes to the winning restaurants. Food people just have more fun. We encourage winners to use their braggin’ rights for the year. The eateries really do get in the spirit. This is an informal, unscientific poll so if a restaurant doesn’t win, it’s no big deal. But if it does, they can act as if a Favorites Award is our hometown equivalent of an Olympic medal. We have Ralph and Jeff Taylor to thank (or blame) for that attitude. They started the gag of taking a funny photo. We’ll never forget their ice-cream-colored “Dumb & Dumber” suits that started a trend of (mostly restaurant winners) Ralph & Jeff Taylor taking a silly shot.

If only the Big Skillet had met

... the Big Spoon!

This year, with no prompting from us, the giant prop was popular. The Calico County guys didn’t know crazy Don Tate of Benson’s had created an enormous trophy spoon to pose with. Skillet and spoon were there at different times, darn it. We could have made them duel. We knew that Rolando’s Maitre d’, Tony, was playful but who knew he was a full-on ham? His “speech from Julius Caesar” pose proves it.

“Friends, Romans, countrymen ...”

All joking aside – these restaurant crews are pleased their patrons have voted for them. They work hard to earn your favor. The sweetest winner was shy Darlene Rogers, owner of Williamsburg Kitchen since 1979. She won “Favorite Full Service Lunch.” “I didn’t want to have my picture made,” she admitted in her quiet voice. “But you know, it’s kind of nice to have a little recognition.”

February 2015

Entertainment Fort Smith

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DINING GUIDE

Entertainment Fort Smith

February 2015

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DINING GUIDE

February 2015

Entertainment Fort Smith

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DINING GUIDE

Entertainment Fort Smith

February 2015

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