Issuu

EDITOR’S NOTES

Hoping for a lucky March WEAR A MASK, GET A VACCINATION!

Editorial Staff LYNN WASSON Editor & Publisher lynnwasson@efortsmith.com DONNA PAYNE Senior Editor donnapayne@efortsmith.com

Contributing Photographers McFARLAND PHOTOGRAPHY CLAY PRUITT HELI MISTRY SUE ROBISON Interactive Story Editor JOE WASSON joe@efortsmith.com

Advertising Sales LINDA GILHAM lgilham@efortsmith.com 479-629-0235 CHARLES G. HUBBARD charleshubbard@efortsmith.com 479-831-3995 Bookkeeping JULIE BERCH HAMILTON accounts@efortsmith.com © 2021 eFortSmith.com Media, Inc

efortsmith.com is the website of Entertainment Fort Smith Magazine, where current and past issues may be viewed as a replica of the printed magazine.

Entertainment Fort Smith

March 2021

We sincerely hope you’re reading this while in short sleeves, sitting in spring sunshine. This March issue went to press with lingering snow still covering the ground in Fort Smith. Ironically, our Denver, Colo., printing press was, on that day, ready to roll. But it was anticipating a paper shipment from (get this) Pine Bluff – where snowy roads were delaying shipment. We’re due some luck and good fortune after a severe winter snowstorm and record cold temperatures – not to mention the ongoing disruptions caused by the pandemic, a year after our lifestyles changed in response. At least we see hope in the availability of lifesaving vaccinations that are arriving in our state now. Please, avail yourself of the opportunity when your turn comes. We love you and want you to live and be well. We were inspired and even became prouder of our hometown while interviewing Brian Kim, president of the Arkansas Colleges of Health Education. Although his considerable professional credentials were in the news two years ago when he came to lead Fort Smith’s growing medical colleges, few knew he is a lifelong violinist, as well. He has been playing with the Fort Smith Symphony for two seasons now, just as he played with an orchestra, or several orchestras, in all the major cities in which he has lived and studied, including Boston, Chicago and the Washington, D.C., area. Playing the violin has been a critical part of his work/life balance, Kim explained. He also had been a prodigious marathon runner, which has changed due to a health issue, now addressed. That makes music more a center of his personal fulfillment than ever. Discovering the excellence of the Fort Smith Symphony was a key factor persuading him to accept this leadership position, Kim said. Now, ACHE and the symphony will become intertwined even beyond his involvement as the institution’s proposed health research center plans to collaborate with musicians to study the influence of music (and other arts) on wellness. Knowing, through Kim’s opinion of our area’s opportunities in education and the arts, that Fort Smith measures up favorably, makes us feel good.

Also in this issue, we’ve given an “encore” publication to two engaging stores published digitally in February. We know there are “printonly” readers of the magazine who will have missed the chance to enjoy them. One of those stories offers even more beyond our pages. You can log on to YouTube to see the gorgeous and fun videos produced by Clay Pruitt, who was the captain of a six-month sailboat cruise with his wife, Susan, and sons Denver and Hudson. Setting out just as the global Covid-19 crisis was emerging in early 2020, they decided not to miss a once-in-a-lifetime adventure together. In his more than 30 videos that are under 10 minutes long, you can virtually sail along with them. Sail, and rock climb, surf, boogie board, wake-board, swim with turtles and sharks, comb the beaches and dance on the sand. The lively, gorgeous videos shot and edited by Pruitt will (almost!) put sand between your toes. A second story we elected to present again is about our friends who are sidelined from portraying Judge Isaac C. and Mary Parker. These super-volunteers, Sonny and Sue Robison, have spent the quiet months of the pandemic creating new ways to provide handson history learning at the Fort Smith Museum of History. Few would know how many things Sonny has already made for the benefit of museum visitors, such as a kid-sized keelboat and chalkboard slates for the museum’s Victorian classroom activities. There’s information about a possible spring break road trip for families that can be enjoyed safely – digging for diamonds at Arkansas’ Crater of Diamonds State Park. It’s a possible day trip if you start out early and someone in your family may dig up a “finders/keepers” gem. We’re happy to be back in your hands as a printed issue. We’re also glad so many of you continue to read the magazine online, as an exact but digital replica, which is always an option at efortsmith.com. As is true with many of the fine businesses that underwrite this city/regional magazine, we have been flexing through challenging conditions. With their support and your readership, we’ll carry on. Be safe, be well! – Lynn Wasson

CONTENTS

March 2021

features

10 Yo ho! A pirate’s life for them

14 14

The judge is a craftsman

Wellness and Music in Harmony When Brian Kim was invited to become president of the Arkansas Colleges of Health Education, he was influenced by the excellence of the Fort Smith Symphony. He has been playing violin for more than 50 years as a part of his work/life balance. ACHE’s new research center will collaborate with the symphony and the arts in several ways. Sail on, Sail On, Sailors The Pruitt family had embarked on the adventure of a lifetime – six months aboard a sailboat in the U.S. Virgin Islands – when Covid-19 emerged in early 2020. They made a gut decision to sail on. Read about their experience onboard and watch a video series that journals the life aquatic of Clay, Susan, Denver and Hudson. We repeat this feature from the last issue for print-only readers.

Sonny Made It Many students and visitors know Floyd “Sonny” Robison as Judge Isaac C. Parker. Few know how many things he has created to help visitors understand history “hands-on” at our Fort Smith Museum of History. With the help of “Mrs. Mary Parker” (Sue) here’s a look at just some of his craftsmanship. We give this feature an encore for the enjoyment of print-only readers.

Your Diamond May Be Waiting for You The Crater of Diamonds State Park is a finders/keepers treasure hunt. It’s the most unique Arkansas State Park you can visit within a day.

departments

Arkansas diamond dig

WHAT’S COOKING Slam Dunk Game Grub – chow down on buffalo chicken wings and pulled pork with honey barbecue sauce for basketball tournament watching.

eve n t s

GOODIES Discovered in hometown stores, unique and appealing merchandise.

EVENTS FOR KIDS Opportunities to keep children active and learning during this unusual time.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS Spring really is on the way in March’s calendar. Look ahead to get outdoors to see blooming flowers or to hunt for Bigfoot.

o n t h e c ove r : Tourney treats

Entertainment Fort Smith

March 2021

Brian Kim is president of the Arkansas Colleges of Health Education and a violinist with the Fort Smith Symphony. Photo by Heli Mistry, ACHE

Wene and music in harmony

BRIAN KIM, PRESIDENT OF THE ARKANSAS COLLEGES OF HEALTH EDUCATION, BALANCES LIFE BY PLAYING WITH THE FORT SMITH SYMPHONY BY LYNN WASSON

PHOTO BY HELI MISTRY, ACHE

tarting at the age of 9 in the Los Angeles Public School system, Brian Kim took up the violin. As he continued his education and became an attorney, he continued to find challenge and fulfillment by playing in symphony orchestras. During a pursuit of constant career advancement, he has never stopped playing. Two years ago, after a national search, Kim was chosen to become president of the Arkansas Colleges of Health Education at a time it is sprinting through phenomenal, planned growth from the establishment in 2014 of a four-year Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine to the addition of physical therapy, occupational therapy and physician assistant degree programs and several health-related advanced degree programs. After studying and working in New Orleans, Boston, Chicago and the Washington, D.C., area, Fort Smith is the smallest city he has lived in. But discovering the existence and excellence of the Fort Smith Symphony helped confirm his decision to take this role at ACHE, Kim said. “Here in Fort Smith, I have found it so remarkable, the level of support the community gives the symphony, and the program is a first-class, firstrate program,” Kim said. “When I saw the program John Jeter put together, I was really excited.” In each city where he lived and attended college, Kim was able to participate in either a college or city-based orchestra. “That was an important factor in my decision to come. Wherever I have lived, I have always played with a local symphony or more than one. When I was in Chicago, I played with the Chicago Bar Association Symphony, the Northwestern Medical School symphony, a community symphony called the Chicago Citywide and with the civic orchestra, which did community concerts from time to time.” “In 1984, in my second year of law school, I joined the Boston Bar Association orchestra. I also played with the local Brookline Symphony. So, even during law school, I kept my playing current. It’s always been a friend. I look to playing as a solace and comfort where I could just be in my own world,” he said. Over the course of Kim’s distinguished career, he has accumulated more than 35 years of legal experience and more than 20 years of academic experience. He has held teaching positions at the University of Baltimore School of Law, University of Maryland School of Law and George Mason University School of Law. He recently worked as vice president for the Department of Accreditation and Associate General Counsel for the American Osteopathic Association, the member organization for more than 145,000 U.S. osteopathic medical doctors and osteopathic medical students. That job also included his role as secretary to the Commission on Osteopathic College Accreditation, the accrediting agency for all osteopathic medical schools. His wide national survey of almost all osteopathic colleges indicates Kim’s opinion of the ACHE and its programs. “As much as I chose ARCOM, they chose me and I feel fortunate,” Kim said. “The people that I work with are the best group I have ever had the good fortune to work with. I don’t know whether it is luck or fate, this is the best group of professionals, faculty, staff and the students, even.” 8

Entertainment Fort Smith

March 2021

At the time Kim took the role of president of ACHE, its founding leader, Kyle Parker, moved up to a new position of CEO. Parker has said that with Kim overseeing administration, Parker can work on future vision, “the big picture.” The picture is indeed always becoming bigger at ACHE. Kim was attracted by the colleges’ devotion to wellness, a whole-life approach that includes the value of music and all the arts. “There is a natural relationship between the medical school and the curriculum being intertwined with music, because the theory of music as a form of healing, while relatively recent, has been found to be evidence-based and is proven to be effective,” he explained. Scientifically quantifying the relationship of music to wellness will be an ongoing focus at ACHE’s new research institution. In 2020, the ACHE board unanimously voted to purchase the high-rise building formerly housing Golden Living corporation’s headquarters. The five-story building will be used by ACHE for both a health and wellness center and as home for what ACHE has said is “the largest research institution of any osteopathic school in the nation.” ACHE has invited the Fort Smith Symphony to move its offices there. This new partnership has energized music director John Jeter, the symphony’s leader, and the entire organization. An organic connection between music and wellness will grow stronger and will be “fascinating” to participate in, Jeter said. “We expect to be quite involved in the study of how music affects health and wellness,” he continued. “If we’re in a situation where we can help, it’s very exciting and positive.” Musicians innately know that playing and hearing music increases well-being. While leaving science to scientists, Jeter sees almost endless possibilities in the nexus of wellness and performing arts. “The symphony is very fortunate to have the opportunity,” Jeter said. Public health has placed existential challenges on the Fort Smith Symphony since early 2020. With ingenuity and by implementing informed safety guidance, the symphony has adapted in order to play on by postponing two concerts of last year’s season that have been made up this year. It held its season-opening concert outdoors on the banks of the Arkansas River at the U.S. Marshals Museum. “So much credit goes to John for putting together this plan to present these performances,” said Kim, especially the outdoor concert. “The gods must have been with us. We were able to present the concert, when in Oklahoma a symphony had to cancel because of weather, but ours went off perfectly executed for both concerts that day.” The symphony altered its regular concert evenings to two performances to split the audience size. With screenings, distanced seating and maskwearing, the rest of the symphony’s season continues at its traditional home, the ArcBest Performing Arts Center at the Fort Smith Convention Center. Jeter said the symphony’s audience has been extraordinarily cooperative in following new rules that keep patrons safely apart when entering, during the concert and when leaving the venue. Audience members have said the experience of hearing live music has been uplifting and comforting, even bringing unexpected tears of joy.

Music director John Jeter, below, rehearses the orchestra for its unusual outdoor opening concert at the U.S. Marshals Museum in October, opening the 2020-2021 Fort Smith Symphony season.

Kim, far left above, with the ARCOM students who volunteered as the health screening team at the outdoor concert. Below, audience and orchestra in an auditorium of sky and water. Photos courtesy ACHE.

March 2021

Entertainment Fort Smith

SAIL ON, SAIL ON, SAILORS What to do when your family’s six-month sailboat cruise collides with a pandemic In January 2020, the Pruitts of Fort Smith planned to set sail for six months, starting from the U.S. Virgin Islands. Susan and Clay Pruitt hoped to share an adventure of a lifetime with their sons, Denver and Hudson. An epidemic of a new illness had begun to spike the news headlines, with reports it was spreading to Europe and the U.S. The Pruitts were aware it emerging at the time, but the threat, then, seemed remote. They decided to sail on. Back on dry land, at home since July, they’re happy they did. Living aboard a sailboat put the family in a “bubble” they could control – sailboat, water and sky, with careful trips ashore for supplies. “We were in the islands when the U.S. first shut down,” Clay said. Their home harbor was Cruz Bay, the main town and port of St. John, the smallest of the three U.S. Virgin Islands. St. John is reached only by water. St. John is east of Puerto Rico in an archipelago that includes the British Virgin Islands, a short hour’s sail or ferry ride away. However, the borders of those nations and territories were closed by their governments. When ashore on St. John for supplies or recreation, they obeyed local public health policies, which over the six months included cycles of precautionary shutdowns and limited re-openings. Essential services remained available, with restrictions. Tourism slowed to nil at stretches. Their original plans for sailing to the island countries of Dominica and Turks & Caicos now prohibited, the Pruitts embraced the beauty and almost limitless adventures they could enjoy within the U.S. Virgin Islands. Even these gorgeous photographs fall short in showing the fun they had. But Clay, a professional videographer and documentary filmmaker, did capture the spirit and spectacle of their experience in a series of outstanding video highlight episodes titled “Tales from a Passport,” a record he made for his family but shares with the public on a YouTube channel. Thanks to Clay’s talent, viewers can vicariously sail, snorkel, scuba-dive, boogie-board, fish, swim and walk serene beaches. He has expertly captured both the action and tranquility in which they were immersed. 10

Entertainment Fort Smith

March 2021

Discussing their Caribbean getaway a year after they cast anchor, Clay and Susan feel lucky it all worked out. In ways they were prepared, Susan explained, as they had a decade of sailing experience. They had also attended a sailing school,Cruisers University at Annapolis, Md., to learn skills such as navigation and boat maintenance and repair. The school’s leaders were invaluable sailing mentors, giving guidance even after the training, she said. “They were game changers, helping me make spreadsheets and plan.” But in other ways, they could learn only by doing. They booked the trip a mere five weeks in advance. “I saw this little tiny article about long-term sabbaticals and had told Clay,” she said. “I had been gone and had been working a lot. I came home one day and he said, ‘By the way I booked a boat and we’re going in five weeks.’ But I’m glad he did. I might never have pulled the trigger.” Susan is major gifts manager for the Ronald McDonald House Charities -Arkoma. The chapter offers home-like lodging for parents whose children are in critical or long-term medical care. First established inside Mercy Hospital Fort Smith, it is expanding. In 2021, a new, free-standing and much larger facility is under construction. Her desire to help is heartfelt. Their own youngest child, Lily, lived 128 days after her birth in 2010. Following Lily’s short life, Susan discovered she had breast cancer. Treatment helped to her recover in 2014. Susan and Clay embrace life in their child’s memory and with the experience of enduring life’s fragility. Their teenaged sons are reaching the busiest times of their academic and social life. It was really now or never. She made lists of what to take, from can openers to emergency medical and dental kits. With very limited space and weight limits, the adage for onboard living is to take little – and pare it down to even less. “Now, I think I would know how to take just a carry-on bag,” she said, laughing. Trial and error have taught them what to leave ashore. “We didn’t wear shoes!” Clay said. We wore the same thing over and over,” Susan added. “You didn’t need a lot!” You need the right things.

“We really learned a more minimalistic lifestyle,” Susan said. While in the islands, they lived aboard two catamaran sailboats – starting with a 40-foot and trading up to a 48-foot, both leased. Each crew member had chores and duties. Living constantly so close together, the family had to be responsible for and kind to one another. Away from their home harbor, most computer devices did not have a signal. The distractions of the internet were brief and specific, they explained. When in port, the boys would hop on the free Wi-Fi from the big hotels to talk to friends or download lessons. But screen time ranks far below exploring new beaches, deep-sea fishing (Denver’s passion) or clinging onto a wildly bouncing tube pulled behind the dinghy (Hudson’s specialty). All the while, the brothers kept up with their school work, under Susan’s supervision, including homework and tests. On one Tales from a Passport video, Susan talks about “Adventure Schooling,” her concept of making every day into a learning experience. She details one day when she turned a hike into “a history lesson, a math assignment, a literature reading and even a cooking class.” They were exploring the circa 1780 Annaburg Sugar Plantation, a historic site on St. John. From it, they could see Norman Island, thought to have been the model for the location of the classic adventure novel “Treasure Island” by Robert Louis Stevenson. “So guess who got to read the book and give an oral book report? My kids.” “Hands-on learning is often the best way to never forget,” Susan said. “And it is so much fun, I don’t even think they realize how much they’re learning.” Hudson and Denver shared some adventure school experiences with new and now lifelong friends who also were from sailing families. Strong bonds grew between other boating families as the Pruitts introduced themselves to kids and other parents in port. They evolved into a clan of “boat people” who enjoyed sailing and exploring new places together, with cookouts, conversation and mutual support. Clay is forever in debt to boat friends who helped with mechanical repairs, especially when he accidentally “dropped” an outboard motor into the depths. They’ll never forget beach meals made by a friend who is a chef. Many happy days and nights, they moored in island coves with one or two other boats, enjoying the sea and shore together. Some people they met live aboard year-round. These friends will sail together again, they all vow.

THE PRUITT CREW, BRAVE AND TRUE Intrepid deckhands Hudson, 13, and Denver, 16, with their boogie boards on the beach. Their mom, chief provisioner and education director Susan. Clay, captain and videographer.

March 2021

Entertainment Fort Smith

Denver Pruitt pointing the way to adventure in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Besides islanders and sailors, there is another, hidden, society. Plunging under the surface in a mask, whether free-diving, snorkeling or in scuba gear, the living inhabitants of the sea were endlessly fascinating to the Pruitts. They swam with colorful fish of the Caribbean, sea turtles, rays, eels, coral, mollusks, starfish and saw a stunning universe teeming with marine life. The gear Clay took included waterproof enclosures for his high-definition cameras and the “Tales from a Passport” videos have spectacular underwater footage taken while exploring sunken shipwrecks to several shark encounters, including a rare hammerhead shark. (No ocean creatures were harmed and no humans chomped on this trip.) Sailing across the surface or watching waves hit the sand are wonderful experiences. But Clay found a deepening love of diving. He shot hours of compelling underwater video, which is found in many segments of his series. His footage speaks more eloquently than words and the viewer feels his joy and wonder. Keeping up with his video journal was arduous. He edited all through the six-month cruise. Each of the more than 30 videos is 6-10 minutes long. Clay learned that highlighting each subject with minimal narration was enough – good visuals tell the story. The outstanding series is just for enjoyment. He has no commercial plan, but they are of broadcast quality. As they left for the islands, Clay had just completed “The 24,” a documentary of the annual 24-hour extreme rock-climbing challenge at Horseshoe Bend, Ark. A Fort Smith premiere was held by the River Valley Film Society and it had been screened at the Fayetteville Film Festival. It can also be seen on YouTube. So his island journal was supposed to be fun. 12

Entertainment Fort Smith

March 2021

The videos will be a treasure for Denver and Hudson, who will never forget their aquatic half-year. When they returned, they slipped fairly easily back into life on land, Susan said. They seem be into what they are doing, whenever they are doing it. In their dad’s videos, when Denver and Hudson narrate the account of reeling in a really big catch or describing how exciting it is to hang on to a tube pulled behind a speeding boat, bouncing across its wake, you can tell they’re young men of action, not words. Like most kids, they live in the now. Getting back their land legs and attitudes was a little slower for the adults. Susan and Clay have even gotten away for one more sailing adventure since their return – helping to move a sailboat from Charleston, S.C., to St. Thomas, a 10-day passage. “Water’s a part of our life,” Clay said. They both know they will sail more in the future. Susan admits, “I catch myself always trying to find something adventurous to do. I’m searching for things to fill that sense of adventure that we had. Every day was something amazing. When you get back home, the daily grind can be difficult,” she said. “It’s called swallowing the anchor.” “I can’t talk about it,” Clay said, “I’m getting choked up.” He knows that those six months are special and will never happen again just the same way. “On the boat, you’re always in close proximity with your family. We spent every day and night together for six months! There are chores and school and work, but every day you’re jumping off the back of the boat, swimming with turtles, seeing sharks, doing things you might only get to do once in your lifetime.” “Susan and I will sail again. I know we’ll sail with the kids and maybe, I hope, we will make memories with the kids and their families,” he said. But nothing will be exactly as it was on that 2020 cruise he explained. It’s why he’s so happy they did not opt to cancel it. “With the pandemic beginning, we struggled and then went with our gut decision, hoping it would be the right one,” Clay said. “As it turned out, where we were was the best place in the world to be.” – Lynn Wasson

Hudson Pruitt can cling like a barnacle to a tube behind a speedy boat.

Under the sea: the family scuba-dived often. Clay, right, swims with a sea turtle. Among the “boat people,” the Pruitts met singer Kenny Chesney and let him use their mooring point for a night. He thanked them for their favor with this autographed boat flag. Denver’s steely fingers take him up a rock face.

March 2021

Entertainment Fort Smith

SoNNY MADE IT

In addition to portraying Judge Isaac C. Parker, Sonny Robison has hand-crafted everything from furniture to chalk slates, diorama models and other touchable items to give visitors hands-on encounters at the Fort Smith Museum of History.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF SUE ROBISON 14

Entertainment Fort Smith

March 2021

loyd Robison, known as Sonny to his friends and family, has a reserved demeanor and very much resembles the famous jurist, Judge Isaac C. Parker, whom he often portrays for educational programs and events. With his long, white hair and flowing beard, dressed in a late 19th-century black suit with a salamander stickpin, it is possible he’s a little scary to the schoolchildren who meet him on field trips to the Fort Smith Museum of History – until they ask a question. Sonny’s kind eyes light up for kids and he always answers their curiosity patiently, engaging them at their own age level. He often will hand a child his cane or hat to draw them out and encourage questions. Helping young people connect with history in a hands-on way inspires Sonny to use his skilled craftsmanship to make what is now an impressive number and variety of interactive installations that enhance the experiences of museum visitors. Most people will not know that not only is he playing Judge Parker – he himself made the wooden gavel he can allow kids to hold. Soon students will be able to bang that replica gavel from an ornately carved judge’s chair at a high, matching courtroom bench, Sonny’s most recent creations for the museum.

Some of his creations for the museum, opposite, include a pair of carved oxen, a replica of Judge Parker’s chair, a kitted-out covered wagon and a kid-sized skiff with working oars and sail. According to his wife Sue, who portrays the formidable Mrs. Mary Parker, designing and making educational installations is more in Sonny’s nature than dressing as the judge. She admits she initially put him up to the live Parker impressions. But he’d much rather “show” than “tell.” He’s the most contented when creating items in his snug, well-organized backyard workshop at their Van Buren home. For some projects, Sonny works both at home and on-site to bring an installation to life. Hours of carving went into scale models of the oxendrawn covered wagon, outfitted with a churn, leather and wooden tack, oak barrels and wooden provision crates. It illustrates the 1850 gold rush prospectors who outfitted here. As much time went into a keelboat model, for which he handcarved and painted miniature crew members.

These models also can be taken to classrooms and libraries, where they fascinate kids. But Sonny had action in mind for a skiff he made to scale so that kids could climb in and row the working, wooden oars secured in iron oarlocks. It attracts youngsters and adults alike to climb aboard and pull the oars, giving them an experience somewhat like that of the keelboat era. Its canvas sail can be raised and lowered. He always adds extra educational value. The skiff ’s U.S. flag has the authentic number of stars and strips of 1817, the year soldiers arrived to establish the first military Fort Smith. Sonny made it, using cloth paint. “We never know what he’s going to come up with – sometimes he just does it!” said Caroline Speir, executive director of the museum, who is ever-grateful for the extensive volunteer work of both Sonny and Sue. When another volunteer, Nancy Ahlert, helped to create a Victorian-era classroom experience, Sonny pitched in with tools and labor to make it all work. Ahlert is a retired Fairview Elementary teacher who dresses and teaches as would have been done in the period. Visiting students can sit in desks and take lessons from textbooks and materials from Victorian times. He and frequent volunteer Marcus Woodward built a raised floor to which the iron desks are bolted. For each desk, he made wooden slates on which students of the period wrote and ciphered in chalk. So they would be usable, he made them of wood with a modern chalk-paint surface. Each slate is tied to its desk with a jute cord. He also converted the teacher’s easel chalkboard to a usable chalk-paint surface. He made a wooden pail and dipper to show how students and teacher shared a drink, (strictly as a visual example). He supported another outstanding museum volunteer, Carl Riggins, who created the fantastic “On The Air” interactive exhibit of local media history. Sonny custom-built a working anchor desk, with an authentic tv station logo. News cameras and lights that Riggins collected are set up around the desk. Many visitors take their turn as ‘anchor person’ on the interactive set. The Parker era furniture is for teaching and programs. There is a full Court of the Western District of Arkansas room in the museum, but it is a display. Because of Sonny’s craftsmanship, visitors will be allowed to sit at his new bench. It can serve as a theatrical set for the historical reenactment of trials that Sue helps to produce. “If some kid breaks Parker’s replica gavel,” Sue said, “Sonny can make another one.” But they’re sure the child will never forget the judge to whom that gavel belonged.

Keelboat model, such as soldiers arrived here aboard in 1817.

Slates, quill pens and desks for the museum’s schoolroom.

Sonny loading the Parker bench, which matches with the chair. March 2021

Entertainment Fort Smith

Quick Facts about Crater of Diamonds State Park Diamonds come in all colors of the rainbow. The three most common colors found at Crater of Diamonds State Park are white, brown and yellow, in that order. More than 75,000 diamonds have been unearthed at the Crater of Diamonds since the first diamonds were discovered in 1906 by a farmer, long before it became an Arkansas State Park in 1972. The largest diamond ever discovered in the United States was unearthed there in 1924 during an early mining operation. Named the Uncle Sam, this white diamond with a pink cast weighed 40.23 carats. It was later cut into a 12.42-carat emerald shape and purchased by a private collector for $150,000 in 1971. Admission to the park’s diamond search area is currently limited to 1,500 tickets per day due to COVID-19 restrictions. Visitors are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance at CraterofDiamondsStatePark.com. Crater of Diamonds State Park is located on Arkansas 301 in Murfreesboro. It is one of 52 state parks administered by Arkansas State Parks, a division of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism.

The statewide health emergency caused by the COVID-19 pandemic will require that the following rules be followed: No diamond-mining tool rentals at this time. Hand sanitizer will be in the Visitor Center. Face coverings will be required in the Visitor Center, the Diamond Discovery Center, North and South Sluice Pavilions and all sun shelters. Children under 10 are not required to wear face coverings To keep a safe distance in the search field, guests and groups will be asked to keep a 12-foot distance between others, unless they are wearing face coverings. Diamond Mine hours: 7 days a week from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visitor Center hours: 7 days a week from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Walking trails, picnic areas and RV camping at the park remain open.

Visitors to the park search a 37-acre field, the eroded surface of a volcanic crater, for variety of rocks, minerals and gemstones – and any rock or mineral you find is yours to keep. You may bring your own mining equipment to search with (no battery-operated or motor driven mining tools allowed). At the park's visitor center, see real, uncut diamonds and interact with exhibits illustrating the area's unique history and geology. At the Diamond Discovery Center, learn more about rocks and minerals of the park and how to search for diamonds using various techniques. Other amenities include walking trails, picnic sites, 47 Class AAA campsites, five walk-in tent sites, a gift shop, cafe (seasonal) and Diamond Springs Water Park (seasonal). CraterofDiamondsStatePark.com

March 2021

Entertainment Fort Smith

goodies Shamrocks in both burgundy and green are available at Neumeier Nursery & Greenhouses.

Sauces for every occasion and dish found at Paul’s Meat Market.

Aveda Damage Remedy products from Metropolis Hair Studio.

Entertainment Fort Smith

March 2021

goodies

Handcrafted blue stone necklace from Fort Smith Regional Art Museum.

Tabletop statue with bronze finish available at Designer Again. March 2021

Entertainment Fort Smith

goodies Mike’s Furniture carries a full line of entertainment centers and TV stands.

Hoka Mach 4 is softer, bouncier, light and fast. Available at True Grit Running Co.

A variety of Irish whiskeys for the upcoming holiday. Found at In Good Spirits.

Entertainment Fort Smith

March 2021

goodies

Tile and stone in a variety of designs from D&D Floor Covering. Home decor and vintage finds are available at Olen & Co. Market

Designer sunglasses by Tiffany & Co. found at the offices of Dr. Steven B. Stiles, EyeGroup.

March 2021

Entertainment Fort Smith

goodies

Matrix total results Brass Off and So Silver shampoos found at Vanity Calls.

Shamrock serving dishes and platters available at A to Z Variety.

Audinell cleaning wipes for hearing aids from Center for Hearing.

Entertainment Fort Smith

March 2021

goodies

March 2021

Entertainment Fort Smith

WHAT’S COOKING

PULLED PORK SANDWICHES WITH HONEY BARBECUE SAUCE

SLAM DUNK GAME GRUB 24

Entertainment Fort Smith

March 2021

Pork Rub 1/4 cup sugar 1 tbsp. chili powder 2 tsp. paprika 11⁄2 tsp. seasoned salt 11⁄2 tsp. garlic powder 11⁄4 tsp. onion powder 1 tsp. salt 1 tsp. ground cumin 1 tsp. pepper 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper

Roast 1 bone-in pork shoulder roast (4 pounds) 2 cups hickory chips 1 cup water 11⁄2 cups barbecue sauce 11⁄2 cups honey 1 cup ketchup 8-10 rolls Chopped jalapeno peppers (optional) Chopped onion (optional) Chopped pickles (optional)

Pork Rub: Stir together sugar, chili powder, paprika, seasoned salt, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, cumin, pepper and cayenne pepper. Massage Rub over surface of pork and let stand 30 minutes. Roast: Soak hickory chips in water; drain well. Wrap chips in foil; punch holes in foil and place on top of gas grill set on high. When chips begin to smoke, place pork on grill and cook until well browned on all sides with lid closed, about 30-45 minutes. Heat oven to 300 degrees. Remove pork from grill and place in turkey-size oven bag in large, shallow baking dish. Add water and

seal well; pierce bag several times with small knife. Cook 3-31⁄2 hours or until meat is tender and pork bone can be removed easily. Remove from oven. Remove bone and set aside until cool enough to handle. Shred meat into small pieces, removing fat. Add juices from cooking bag, skimming off excess fat. Sauce: In saucepan, stir together barbecue sauce, honey and ketchup, cooking until hot and honey has dissolved. Stir most of sauce into shredded pork and mix well. Serve on rolls and drizzle with remaining sauce. Top with jalapenos, onions and pickles, if desired.

WHAT’S COOKING

CRISPY BAKED BUFFALO CHICKEN WINGS 4 pounds chicken wings 2 tbsp. baking powder 1 tsp. salt Nonstick cooking spray 4 tbsp. unsalted butter, melted 1/2 cup hot sauce 1/2 cup chunky blue cheese or ranch dressing 1/3 cup blue cheese crumbles Carrots Celery Lay wings on rack on rimmed baking tray and let dry in refrigerator overnight, or pat dry with paper towels. Heat oven to 250 degrees. Put one oven shelf in lower quarter of oven and one in top quarter. Place wings in large resealable bag. Add baking powder and salt. Shake bag to coat wings evenly. Line tray with foil. Spray rack on baking tray with nonstick spray. Place wings skin side up on rack. Bake on lower shelf 30 minutes. Move tray to higher shelf and turn oven up to 425 F. Bake 40-50 minutes, rotating tray halfway through. Wings are done when they are dark, golden brown and skin is crispy. While wings bake, whisk together butter and hot sauce; keep warm. Remove wings from oven and toss with hot sauce; sprinkle immediately with blue cheese crumbles. Serve with blue cheese or ranch dressing, carrots and celery sticks. March 2021

Entertainment Fort Smith

KIDS EVENTS

March 1 One Fish, Two Fish Craft Celebrate Dr. Seuss Week with a themed craft! Use your hands and some paint to make a Red Fish, Blue Fish craft based on the book “One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish.” Craft kits are available upon request. For toddlers and children. Free. 4-5 p.m. 479632-4140. Facebook – Alma Public Library March 1 Paper Fan Shamrocks Prepare for St. Patrick’s Day by making a paper fan shamrock decoration. Watch the video for a supplies list and instructions about how to complete the activity. You can watch "Paper Fan Shamrocks" anytime on the Fort Smith Public Library's Facebook page or YouTube Channel. Free. 479-783-0229. Facebook and YouTube – Fort Smith Public Library March 1 Celebrity Story Time A new celebrity reads aloud for all ages, every first Monday of the month. Free. 10-11 a.m. 479-4101853. Facebook – Cedarville Public Library

fun biography was written by Judy Sierra and illustrated by Kevin Hawkes. Free. 10-10:15 a.m. 479-7830229. Facebook – Fort Smith Public Library March 2-30 Virtual Baby and Me A story, play and song activity for infants to age 3. Free. 10:30-11 a.m. Tuesdays. 479-474-6045. Facebook – VBPL Children’s Library March 2-30 Surprise Tuesday Use the library’s Facebook page to find out the surprise. Free. 4 p.m. Tuesdays. 479-997-1226. Facebook – Mulberry Public Library

March 2-30 Mountainburg Story Time with Miss Kara Tune in each Tuesday for stories read online by Miss Kara. Each week has a theme that coordinates with a craftivity the following Friday. 2:30-3 p.m. Tuesdays. 479-369-1600. Facebook – Mountainburg Public Library March 3-31 Van Buren Virtual Story Time A librarian presents virtual story times for children. Free. 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Wednesdays. 479-474-6045. Facebook – VBPL Children’s Library

March 3-31 Cedarville Virtual Story Time Ms. Lara will read a story and show kids how to a fun craft in a live video. Free. 10-11 a.m. Wednesdays. 479-410-1853. Facebook – Cedarville Public Library March 1-April 9 2021 PBS Kids Writers Contest PBS KIDS Writers Contest is an initiative designed to promote the advancement of children’s literacy skills through hands-on, active learning. The contest encourages children in grades K-3 to celebrate creativity by submitting their own original stories and illustrations. Entries will be judged on originality, creative expression, storytelling and integration of text and illustrations. Each Arkansas entrant will receive a participation certificate, and 12 winners – three from each grade – will receive an Arkansas PBS prize pack. In addition, first-place winners will receive a PBS KIDS Playtime Pad, which comes preloaded with educational games, music and videos. Arkansas students may submit stories by mail to Arkansas PBS until April 9. Winners will be announced in May and featured online. Download and print the contest rules and contest entry form at myarkansaspbs.org/kids/writerscontest.

March 2 Dr. Seuss Bookmarks Celebrate Dr. Seuss this week! Ms. Reeca will show how to make wacky and crazy Dr. Seuss bookmarks. Craft kits are available on request. Free. 4-5 p.m. 479-632-4140. Facebook – Alma Public Library

March 2 Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss: Biography Break Style It's Dr. Seuss' birthday! Do you have a favorite Dr. Seuss book? If it's "The Cat in the Hat" – or even if it isn't – this is the biography for you. Listen and find out why and how Dr. Seuss wrote "The Cat in the Hat," a book that changed reading for children forever. This 26 Entertainment Fort Smith March 2021

March 4-25 Van Buren Virtual Teen Time Activities, crafts, STEM subjects and fun for tweens and teens, live. Free. 4-4:30 p.m. Thursdays. 479-4746045. Facebook – Van Buren Public Library Teenspace

March 4-25 Alma Story Time Toddlers and children can enjoy a fun story with Miss Allison every week at virtual story time! After reading a short book, learn how to make a themed craft to go along with it. Craft kits are available upon request. Free. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Thursdays. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Road, Alma, Ark. 479-6324140. Facebook – Alma Public Library

March 4-25 Mulberry Story Time Live Join a live story time for babies, toddlers and their caregivers that includes reading an age-focused books, crafts, songs and more. Free. 10 a.m. Thursdays. 479-997-1226. Facebook – Mulberry Public Library

March 4 Truffula Tree Do you like Dr. Seuss’s “The Lorax?” Ms. Reeca will show you how to make a Truffula Tree from that story. Craft kits will be available upon request. Free. 4-5 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140. Facebook – Alma Public Library

March 5 Family and Folklore Join Mrs. Tammy to hear the folk tale of a widowed mother whose two children were left to grow up with little oversight. What happened next? Watch online to find out. Free. 2-3 p.m. 479-632-4140. Facebook – Alma Public Library March 5-26 Krafting Live with Miss Kara Miss Kara has a live crafting activity each Friday. Every second and fourth Friday will feature a STEM activity. Free. 2:30-3:15 p.m. 479-369-1600. Facebook – Mountainburg Public Library

March 5 Make an Oobleck! Have you read Dr. Seuss’s book, Bartholomew and the Oobleck? So fun! We will be making our own Oobleck. Ms. Reeca shows you how in a video. Craft kits are available upon request. Free. 4-5 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-6324140. Facebook – Alma Public Library

March 6 Youth Trout Fishing Derby Pack up the whole family and head to Robbers Cave State Park for this annual event for ages 16 and under. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Pre-registration is requested but can be done on-site on the morning of the event. There will be three different age brackets for participants: 6 and under, 7-10 and 1116 years old. Two rod & reel prizes will be awarded for each age bracket for the heaviest stringer (limit 6) and heaviest single trout. Some bait will be provided; however, participants are encouraged to bring their own and must bring their own rod, reel, tackle, stringer and basket. Participants are limited to one pole per person. A trout license is no longer a requirement; however, if a participant is 16, an Oklahoma Fishing License is required. Free. 9-11 a.m. Deep Ford Campground, Robbers Cave State Park, Oklahoma 2 North, Wilburton, Okla. 918-465-2562 March 8 Laptime Story Time with Mrs. Tiffany Join Mrs. Tiffany for a virtual laptime story time, for infants to 24 months. Stay tuned until the end when, after she reads and acts silly, she'll share a simple craft that you can create at home. Free. 10-10:15 a.m. 479-783-0229. Facebook and YouTube – Fort Smith Public Library

March 8 Paper Plate Rainbow Enjoy a rainbow-themed craft that’s fun and easy! Use simple supplies and your creativity to make a paper plate rainbow. Craft kits are available upon request. Free. 4-5 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 Facebook – Alma Public Library March 9 Four Leaf Clover Craft Feeling as lucky as a four leaf clover? Then why not make your own forever shamrock? And not just any shamrock; these are 3D! Ms. Reeca shows how on video. Craft kits are available upon request. Free. 4-5 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140. Facebook – Alma Public Library

March 10 Cactus Rocks Time to get cactus crazy! All it takes is painting a rock to look like a cactus. Ms. Reeca teaches how, online. Free. 2-3 p.m. Facebook - Alma Public Library March 11 Biography Break: Who Says Women Can’t Be Doctors? It's Women's History Month. Celebrate with a Biography Break! Ms. Robin as she reads the book “Who Says Women Can't Be Doctors? The Story of Elizabeth Blackwell” by Tanya Lee Stone. When Elizabeth was growing up, women were not allowed to become doctors. Listen and find out how she changed all that in this inspiring biography. Free. 1010:15 a.m. 479-783-0229. Facebook and YouTube – Fort Smith Public Library

March 11 Rainbow Magnets for Tweens and Teens Time to get colorful by making rainbow magnets using repurposed bottle caps. Ms. Reeca shows you how in a video. Craft kits are available upon request. Free. 4-5 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140. Facebook – Alma Public Library March 11 Tween Thursdays Activities are for middle school kiddos, who will have fun AND learn here every second Thursday of the month. Free. 3:45 p.m. 479-410-1853. Facebook – Cedarville Public Library March 12 Family & Folklore Mrs. Tammy explores the world of War Eagle and the night the mistakes of an older man are recounted. Free. 2-3 p.m. Facebook – Alma Public Library

March 12 Story Safari Let’s go on a Story Safari! Join zany librarians Mrs. Rachel and Mrs. Tiffany on the hunt for a great book! Free 10-10:15 a.m. 479-783-0229. Facebook and YouTube – Fort Smith Public Library

March 13 Canoe Fishing Kids, grab an adult and head to the nature center to go fishing in canoes. Spend the afternoon working on paddling strokes and trying to catch some fish from Wells Lake. One adult per child. Anyone 16 or older must have a valid Arkansas fishing license. Masks will be provided and social distancing will be required for all in-person programs. Email registration required; danielle.simmons@agfc.ar.gov. Free. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-3993

March 15 Shamrock Craft St. Patrick’s Day is almost here and we are celebrating with all things green! This craft uses tissue paper to create a fun, textured shamrock. The craft video for

KIDS EVENTS children and toddlers will be online. Craft kits are available upon request. Free. 4-5 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140. Facebook – Alma Public Library

March 15 Paper Strip Shamrocks Have fun making a March-themed paper strip shamrock craft! Watch the video for a supplies list and instructions about how to complete the activity. You can watch "Paper Strip Shamrocks" anytime online. 479783-0229. Facebook and YouTube – Fort Smith Public Library

March 16 Beaded Shamrock Craft In honor of the St. Patrick’s Day, make beaded shamrocks. Ms. Reeca demonstrates online for tweens and teens. Free. 4-5 p.m. Facebook – Alma Public Library

March 16 Story Time with Matia! “R-E-S-P-E-C-T: Aretha Franklin, the Queen of Soul” Who is the queen of soul? Aretha Franklin, of course! Join Matia as she reads this award-winning biography of Aretha Franklin to find out more about her life and legacy. Free. 10-10:15 a.m. 479-783-0229. Facebook and YouTube – Fort Smith Public Library

March 17 Story Time Join Ms. Tammy live online as she discusses “Washington Black” by Esi Edugyan. The award-winning novel follow’s Wash’s escape from slavery and the adventures that await him. Free. 3-4 p.m. Facebook – Alma Public Library

March 18 Ms. Robin’s Favorites Help Ms. Robin open up the Library Surprise Bag to see Fred – and to see which favorite story you'll get to hear! If you’ve got a favorite story, be sure to let Ms. Robin know! You can see "Ms. Robin's Favorites" anytime on the library's Facebook page or YouTube Channel. Free. 10:15 a.m. 479-783-0229. Facebook and YouTube – Fort Smith Public Library March 18 Pet Rocks Make your own forever pet by painting at pet rock. Make a cat, a dog or pet of your own creation. Ms. Reeca leads the craft for teens and tweens by video. Free. 4-5 p.m. Facebook – Alma Public Library

March 18 Cedarville Teen Time On third Thursdays of the month, students ages 1318 will find focused activities just for them. Free. 3:454:45 p.m. 479-410-1853. Facebook – Cedarville Public Library March 19 Family & Folklore Ms. Tammy shares the folk story of a scholar and a dragon. Find out what the scholar’s collection of books has to do with the dragon’s fate! Free. 2-3 p.m. Facebook – Alma Public Library

March 19 Story Break with Mrs. Tiffany Stop! It's time for a story break! Mrs. Tiffany will be reading to a different animal or showing you some-

thing interesting in nature. What will she read to next? You can watch Story Break with Mrs. Tiffany anytime online. Free. 10-10:15 a.m. 479-783-0229. Facebook and YouTube – Fort Smith Public Library

March 19-20 Community School of the Arts Presents “Shrek The Musical” Based on the Oscar-winning DreamWorks Animation film, “Shrek the Musical” is a Tony Award-winning fairly tale adventure bringing all the believed characters you know from the film to life on stage. Shrek proves there's more to the story than meets the ears. “Once upon a time, there was a little ogre named Shrek … .” And thus begins the tale of an unlikely hero who finds himself on a life-changing journey alongside a wisecracking donkey and a feisty princess who resists her rescue. Throw in a short-tempered bad guy, a cookie with an attitude and over a dozen other fairy tale misfits, and you've got the kind of mess that calls for a real hero. Luckily, there's one on hand... and his name is Shrek! This production features more than 30 of the most talented teens in grades 7-12 throughout the area. Directed by Shannon Stoddard, musical direction by Cody Walls and choreographed by Jennifer Woodside Anderson. $20 adults, $18 children 10 and under. 7 p.m. March 19 and 20. Arkansas Best Performing Arts Center, 55 South 7th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-434-2020 csafortsmith.org/tickets-and-shows March 20 Turkey Call Make and Take Learn to make a turkey slate call and striker. Work on a few calls to practice. All calls are included. Masks will be provided and social distancing will be required for all in-person programs. Free. 1 p.m. River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-3993

March 22 Cherry Blossom Painting Toddlers and children can learn to make a craft by following along with a video. Free. 4-5 p.m. Facebook – Alma Public Library

March 22-26 U.S. Marshals Museum Spring Break Day Camp In 2017, the U.S. Marshals Museum hosted its first Spring Break Day Camps. These one-day camps focused on the history and law enforcement through STEM-focused activities.This year, the spring break camp will be a virtual/at-home camp. Each day will include a video with museum staff and activities to help kids learn about what life was like for late 19th century marshals. Each camper will receive a kit complete with an age-appropriate book, laminated photo sheets and activity materials. The museum is partnering with the Fort Smith Boys and Girls Club to distribute sponsored kits. Free. Sponsorships are available. U.S. Marshals Museum, 789 Riverfront Drive, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-242-1789 usmmuseum.org March 2021 Entertainment Fort Smith 27

KIDS EVENTS

March 23 Origami for All Ages Add a touch of whimsy to your home and have some fun as you create origami. Children, teens, and adults can enjoy learning the Japanese art of folding paper. Free. 2-2:15 p.m. 479-783-0229. Facebook and YouTube – Fort Smith Public Library

March 30 Story Time with Christina: “Eyes that Kiss in the Corners!” Join Christina was she reads “Eyes that Kiss in the Corners,” the story of a young girl who notices that her eyes look different from her friends’ round eyes. She realizes that her eyes are like her mother's, her grandmother's and her little sister's. They have eyes that kiss in the corners and glow like warm tea, crinkle into crescent moons, and are filled with stories of the past and hope for the future. This story will inspire readers to recognize their own beauty and strength. Free. 1010:15 a.m. 479-783-0229. Facebook and YouTube – Fort Smith Public Library

March 23 DIY Slime It’s oozy. It’s gooey. It’s slime! Ms. Reeca shows how to make your own, at home, in this video. Ingredients are simple. Free. 4-5 p.m. Facebook – Alma Public Library March 24 Share a Story: A LIVE Nighttime Story Time Grab your favorite stuffed animal and join Mrs. Tiffany while she reads to you a couple of her favorite bedtime stories! 7-7:15 p.m. 479-783-0229. Facebook and YouTube – Fort Smith Public Library March 25 Beaded Rainbow Suncatcher Here comes the sun! Catch its rays in a colorful, rainbow suncatcher. Tweens and teens, call the library to pick up a craft kit. Free. 4-5 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140. Facebook – Alma Public Library

March 25 Cedarville Book Club Read the same books and enjoy discussing them with others. Call for the month’s selection. 1-2 p.m. Free. Cedarville Public Library, 737 Pirates Way, Cedarville, Ark. 479-410-1853

2021 Caldecott Medal Winner

March 25 Caldecott Corner with Ms. Robin Each January, authors and illustrators anxiously await the announcement of the new Caldecott award-winning books. This important award is given to the illustrator of a picture book. A committee of book-loving people chose one book that is given the gold medal. Several other books are given the silver medal, or the Caldecott Honor. Join Ms. Robin online as she reads one of the books that has earned the gold or silver Caldecott Medal for its' illustrations. To find out more about the Caldecott Award, visit ala.org/alsc/awardsgrants/bookmedia/caldecottmedal/caldecottmedal. You might even find the book that won in the year that you were born! 10:1015 a.m. 479-783-0229. Facebook and YouTube – Fort Smith Public Library 28 Entertainment Fort Smith March 2021

March 26 Story Safari Let’s go on a Story Safari! Join zany librarians Mrs. Rachel and Mrs. Tiffany on the hunt for a great book! Free. 10-10:15 a.m. 479-783-0229. Facebook and YouTube – Fort Smith Public Library

March 26 Family & Folklore Ms. Tammy shares the folk tale of a lazy but clever jackal and a steadfast tortoise. The two match wits. Find out who will come out ahead. Free. 2-3 p.m. Facebook – Alma Public Library

March 29 Chalk Art for Toddlers and Children Have you ever used chalk to color on black paper? Use a variety of colors to create a masterpiece. Call the library for a craft kit (provide your own chalk) and learn from this video. Free. 4-5 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-6324140. Facebook – Alma Public Library April 1 Virtual Teen Time Activities, crafts, STEM subjects and fun for tweens and teens, live. Free. 4-4:30 p.m. 479-474-6045. Facebook – Van Buren Public Library Teenspace

CALENDAR of events

Tulip Extravaganza at Garvan Woodland Gardens presents a rainbow of colors and beauty

March 1 Ceramics and Pottery Classes Learn the basics of ceramics from pouring slips into molds or try making pinch pots using coils, slabs and extruding. Learn to relax behind a potter's wheel. Instructors Ashley Yancey, Lance Lockwood and Tammy Fujibayashi lead these lessons. Sessions are two hours and a 30-minute clean-up. Be prepared to get messy! Everything is included, so take only yourself. Take a one-time bucket list session or take a fourto six-week course of lessons. Classes follow Covid19 guidelines and are limited to four participants per session. Tuition starts at $35 per session for children and $45 for ages 16 and older. 9:30-11:30 MondayFriday; 1-3:30 p.m. or 5-7:30 p.m. Saturday. Pottery classes are ongoing. Discounts for four- and six-week pottery sessions, family and military. 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Cre8tive Arts Network, 7408 Buckhorn Street, Fort Smith. 479-357-9079 cre8beartsy.com March 1-29 Ballroom Dance Lessons If you've ever wanted to learn to dance, participate in friendly, personal classes and social dances. Mike and Lisa Lawrence teach beginner waltz since there haven’t been classes in awhile. The venue requires that masks be worn. $5 per person. 6:30-8 p.m. Fort Smith Senior Activity Center, 2700 Cavanaugh Road, Fort Smith. 479-208-1072 Facebook-Step in Time Dance Class

MARCH With nature choosing the exact schedule, more than 150,000 tulips will bloom

this month at Garvin Woodland Gardens. Information about peak bloom times will be available online, daily at the gardens' website or Facebook page. The tulip bloom overlaps with Daffodil Days, which are normally between now and April 15.

Nature's flower show begins with early blooming crocus, daffodils and hyacinths, followed closely or perhaps concurrently by thousands of brilliant Dutch tulips. In addition, spring annuals, wildflowers, flowering trees and azaleas begin to bloom, making it the biggest display of color between Dallas and Memphis all season. Garvan Woodland Gardens' mission is to preserve and enhance a unique part of the Ouachita environment; provide people with a place of learning, research, cultural enrichment and serenity; develop and sustain gardens, landscapes and structures of exceptional aesthetics, design and construction. It is the botanical garden of the University of Arkansas. Members free. $15 adults; $5 ages 4-12; 0-3 free. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Garvan Woodland Gardens, 550 Arkridge Road, Hot Springs, Ark. 800-366-4664 garvangardens.org

March 1-April 4 Crystal Bridges: North Forest Lights Enjoy an enchanted nighttime walk through the woods featuring dynamic, nature-inspired lighting elements, and immersive soundscapes. Five distinct installations will bring the soul of the forest to life with light, sound and sensory effects in a captivating, family-friendly experience. North Forest Lights will be open in the evening hours after sunset. The museum is open Wednesday-Monday with free, timed tickets required for general admission. Entrance to the North Forest Lights exhibition requires paid tickets. $22 adults; $15 adult members; $10 ages 7-18; $7 youth members; free for 6 and under. Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, 600 Museum Way, Bentonville, Ark. 479-418-5700 crystalbridges.org 30

Entertainment Fort Smith

March 2021

CALENDAR OF EVENTS March 1-May 16 RAM Invitational Exploring Mindscapes: An Artist’s Reflections This exhibit was selected by a national competition that has been hosted annually by the Fort Smith Regional Art Center since its inception in 1948. All works will be for sale to benefit the museum and its programs. The theme is the concept of self-reflection in diverse media and subject matter as to include all artistic expression. Free. Museum hours are 11 a.m.6 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday; 1-5 p.m. Sunday. Fort Smith Regional Art Museum, 1601 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-784-2787 fsram.org

Peach blossoms, photo by Dena Creamer March 1-May 23 Dena Creamer: Arkansas Impressions Photography Exhibition Dena Creamer, the winner of RAM’s Maximum Exposure Group Photography competition, earned this solo exhibit of her works as the prize. Creamer enjoys capturing the beauty of the Arkansas Ozarks; landscapes, nightscapes, wildflowers, nature and wildlife. She makes portraits of people and pets, especially Rottweilers. Creamer lives in Clarksville, Ark. Free. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday; 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. Fort Smith Regional Art Museum, 1601 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-784-2787 fsram.org

Loon, photo by Dena Creamer March 3 Mulberry Library Resource Center The Ralph D. Graf Public Library is empowering people, creating solutions and building futures by providing this time to learn about resource information, case management, parenting classes, domestic violence victim service, recovery/life groups and more. Find out more about these services and programs online or in person. Free. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Ralph D. Graf Public Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479997-1226 Facebook – Mulberry Public Library March 3 Recipe Club – Pink Ink Drink & Popcorn Munch Ms. Reeca shows how to make a healthy Pink Ink Drink and Popcorn Munch, in honor of Dr. Seuss. Watch online to follow along. Free. 2-3 p.m. Facebook – Alma Public Library March 2021

Entertainment Fort Smith

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Steel Horse Rally’s annual fun, finger freezin’ ride MARCH The Frozen Knuckles Run is a

benefit motorcycle ride through the Arkansas River Valley that kicks off the riding season and is a preview event of the Steel Horse Rally, scheduled for May 7-8. Entry helps the Steel Horse Rally Inc. to be presented, generating substantial charitable donations to several local non-profit services and institutions. This will be a donation ride (due to COVID-19, lunch will not be served). Kickstands go up at 10:30 a.m. The ride will leave from Barling City Park and the route go up Arkansas 59 to I-540 to U.S. 64 to Arkansas 282 to Rudy. The scenic route will continue on to Georgia Ridge to Dyer and then goes on U.S. 64 to Ozark. The ride continues on Scenic Arkansas 23 to Caulksville then on Arkansas 22 back to Barling. The beneficiaries of the Steel Horse Rally events are the Buddy Smith Veterans Home of Fort Smith, The Fort Smith Museum of History, the Children’s Service League and Antioch for Youth & Family, Fort Smith’s food assistance non-profit organization serving veterans, veterans' families and all members of the community in need of food assistance. The organizers ask that each participant follow COVID-19 protocols with respect to masks and social distancing prior to the ride. Charitable donations accepted. 9:30-11:30 a.m. Barling City Park, 800 East H Street, Barling 479-414-3775 thesteelhorserally.com

Entertainment Fort Smith

March 2021

March 3 What’s Up with B Check in with host Ms. B, for a live video program. There may be a craft or cooking demonstration, an interview with a guest or author or news about books and available the library. It’s a way to keep the community of the library in touch, connected, amused and informed when the library’s doors are closed. Free. 1:30-2:30 p.m. Facebook – Van Buren Public Library March 4 St. Patrick's Day Celebration Paint and Sip Party Paint a 16 x 20-inch Leprechaun Gnome to take home or give as a gift. The gallery provides instruction from professional artist Melody Smith plus all supplies. Participants may provide their own wine, if desired. $35. 6-8 p.m. Gallery on Garrison, 914 Garrison Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-926-6014 thegalleryongarrison.com March 4 Grow Your Own Groceries: Broccoli, Cauliflower, & Cabbage University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture Extension Agents will teach how to grow healthy, nutritious food in your own backyard and give tips for new ways to cook and prepare your harvest. This class will focus on growing and cooking broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage. bit.ly/GYOGbroc-cauli-cab

CALENDAR OF EVENTS March 5 ’90s Music Trivia Join (virtually) for a few rounds of ’80s music trivia on Facebook Live. Free. 6:307:30 p.m. Facebook – Fort Smith Public Library March 5 Grape Escapes, A Vine Affair For nearly 20 years, Grape Escapes has been Bost’s signature event. This year, it’s a virtual toast to Bost – to ensure the safety of the restaurants, caterers, wineries, and attendees. Ticket holders will watch from home but enjoy a live auction, wine pull and other entertainment. A limited number of tickets ($50 each) can be purchased at grapeescapes.org for personal size charcuterie box and wine to be picked up the day of the event. Live auction items include a bourbon or tequila tasting party, a Branson Landing stay; a Barefoot Beach Condo getaway and more. Register online to attend virtually. Grape Escape tickets are available at grapeescapes.org, which directs viewers to the purchasing checkout site. March 6 What To Read Next: Women’s History Month Are you looking for a great book? Checkout some of the books the Fort Smith Public Library recommends as we celebrate Women’s History Month in March. Free. 10-10:15 a.m. Facebook and YouTube – Fort Smith Public Library

Art of Cheryl Kellar and Linda Bates March 6 Paper Dolls and Purple Skies Opening reception for an exhibit featuring the work of northwest Arkansas fashion artist Cheryl Kellar and local artist Linda Bates. The exhibit continues through March. Free. 6:30-8:30 p.m. The Gallery on Garrison, 914 Garrison Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-926-6014 thegalleryongarrison.com March 7-26 CAE Multi-Dimensional Exhibition Meet all the artists at an opening reception from 1-4 p.m. March 7. Rhee Reamy's designs include collage, painting and photography using multiple images and layers in his artwork. Artist and educator Matt Meers uses fabricating skills, sculpture and 3D techniques. Sarah Ridgley experiments with the intersection of art and technology, using computer code to create generative, interactive art pieces using letterGallery at CAE press and Risograph printing to bring her digital art into the analog world. Brandon Rapier's artwork originates from a single interesting found object, eventually becoming the heart of a much larger assembled sculpture piece. Music by Jen and Justin Collier, Irish fiddle and guitar. Free. Center for Art and Education, 104 North 13th Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-7767 art-ed.org. March 9 Scrapbooking Class Bridgette teaches a Signs of Spring layout, live online. Spots are very limited; reserve your spot to pick up a kit. Supplies provided but have your own adhesive and scissors. Free. 1:30-2:30 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 104 North 13th Street, Van Buren, Ark. Facebook-Van Buren Public Library March 2021

Entertainment Fort Smith

CALENDAR OF EVENTS March 9 Book Talk Book Club The Alma Library has an active and engaging book club. This month’s novel is about the life of boy who escapes slavery. To join the club and to borrow a copy of the selected title, call. Free. 6-7 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 Facebook-Alma Public Library

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Entertainment Fort Smith

March 2021

March 9 Partnering Against Trafficking Humans: Community Stakeholder Awareness Program Each year, an estimated 30 million adults and 13 million children are victims of human trafficking, creating a more prolific slave trade than any other time in history. The typical age range for U.S. victims is 12-14. Most are runaways whose families did not report them as missing. The internet serves a lure for many and a marketing tool for traffickers. While the sex trade and labor exploitation are commonly associated with human trafficking, other nefarious activities such as organ harvesting also play a factor. Regions with transecting highways such as Interstate 40 are a conduit for transport. Corporations associated with commercial driving, shipping and their support services are at greater likelihood to unknowingly interact with these bad actors. Becoming informed about human trafficking, recognizing signs and knowing how to intervene and report concerns is critical to stemming the tide of human abuse. Participants learn about trafficking and its connection to western Arkansas. Learn how to spot at-risk individual and identify agencies who can be called with concerns. Led by Casonia Vinson, LMSW, of Partners Against Trafficking Humans, Little Rock. Register by phone or online. Free. Noon1 p.m. 479-788-7782 wahra.com/events March 10 What’s Up with B Check in for a live program from the library. There may be a craft or cooking project, an interview with an author or book reviews. It’s a way to keep the Van Buren Library community connected and served. Free. 1:302:30 p.m. Facebook-Van Buren Public Library March 11 Make It in a Minute Rachel and Tiffany demonstrate fun and unique crafts – all jam-packed into a one-minute video. Watch for more DIY projects and recipes in under 60 seconds from the library. Free. 2 p.m. Facebook and YouTubeFort Smith Public Library March 11 Fort Smith Public Library Endowment Fundraiser Tea, Truffles, and Treasures: Drive-Through Edition Tea, Truffles and Treasures, a ladies’ event, is held annually at Hardscrabble Country Club. While not held in person this year, ticket holders can still enjoy scrumptious boxed refreshments, including tea and truffles, a coupon for treasures from The Jewelry Store and other prize drawings. Call to reserve a box, 479-783-0229, ext.1142. 2-3 p.m. This special afternoon celebrating women and philanthropy is hosted by the Fort Smith Public Library Endowment Advisory Board.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS March 12 Live Streaming Charity Auction Benefit for Fort Smith Museum of History Hosted by Fort Smith Retro Market, this live-streamed auction will accept bids for interesting items at a great value. Those who may have goods to donate to the auction are invited to contribute merchandise (no clothes, please) that might fetch a bid to benefit the Fort Smith Museum of History. Please drop off all items at Fort Smith Retro Market, 3101 Towson Avenue, Fort Smith by March 6. The live auction takes place at 7 p.m. Facebook – Fort Smith Retro Market

Fiber art, Sally Ball March 13 Felting Workshop with Sally Ball Learn the age-old craft of felting from expert fibers artist Sally Ball. She will assist each participant to create a 15x15-inch felted artwork from a photograph to create a work of art unlike any they've done before. Create with full access to her luxurious fibers sourced from around the world and incorporate hand spun yarns, custom fiber blends and the dyed wools and other fibers that she creates as part of her studio process. Students will be transported in time in this workshop filled with textures and colors and fabrics from around the world. Take a sack lunch and a simple photograph that will be turned into a felted image. For ages 13 and up. Call to register. $75. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Center for Art and Education, 104 North 13th Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-7767 art-ed.org

March 13-14 Oklahoma Bigfoot Symposium Explore the lore surrounding one of Oklahoma's most mysterious creatures. Hosted by the Mid-America Bigfoot Research Center, researchers teach how to conduct Bigfoot research in one of the hottest areas of activity in Oklahoma. Topics include seminars on what Bigfoot markers can look like, how to cast tracks and more. Hands-on sessions, speakers from across the country and a kids' corner where children can participate in their own activities. CC Camp, 471660 East 893 Road, Stilwell, Okla. 918-575-3139 March 2021

Entertainment Fort Smith

CALENDAR OF EVENTS March 16-April 6 Sculpting Clay Portraits Samantha Wilson demonstrates practical skills to create clay portraits from photos. She will guide the class step-by-step in process of getting your fingers and simple tools into the clay to shape masterpieces. Students should take photographs of the face, back of head and both profiles of the person they wish to sculpt. Tuition is all-inclusive of materials. 4-week sessions with extra studio time. $130. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Cre8tive Arts Network, 7408 Buckhorn, Fort Smith. 479-357-9079 cre8beartsy.com March 17 What’s Up with B This live program may have a craft or cooking project, an interview or news about books. Free. 1:30-2:30 p.m. Facebook – Van Buren Public Library March 17 Off the Cuff Cooking with Rachel and Jodie Cook up fun while librarians follow recipes from cookbooks available from your library. Free. 10-10:15 a.m. Facebook and YouTube – Fort Smith Public Library

Derrick Adams: Sanctuary examines the freedom to travel Taking its inspiration from “The Negro Motorist Green Book,” known today as “The Green Book,” an installation reimagines safe destinations for the Black American traveler in an exhibition featuring mixed-media collage and sculpture. It can be seen through June at The Momentary, a satellite of Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, in Bentonville, Ark. From 1936 to 1967, during the Jim Crow era, Black American drivers referenced a guidebook, “The Negro Motorist Green Book,” to find hotels, restaurants, state parks, beauty parlors and nightclubs that were nondiscriminatory and Derrick Adams, photo by welcoming. In his continued exploration of Christopher Garcia Valle. Black refuge and leisure, during a time when uneven law enforcement continues to negatively shape the experiences of Black Americans, the artist also offers a space to reflect on the importance and, at times, political act of having the freedom to go wherever you want. Adams is a recipient of a Robert Rauschenberg Foundation Residency, a Gordon Parks Foundation Fellowship and other distinguished awards. His work is in the permanent collections of The Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Studio Museum in Harlem, the Whitney Museum of American Art, the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, and the Birmingham Museum of Art. The Momentary is open Tuesday-Saturday. Check online or call to verify before visiting as schedules can vary due to public health or weather changes. 479-367-7500 themomentary.org

Entertainment Fort Smith

March 20 Season Ticket Discussion: Featured Spice, Tabil Expand your taste buds with a Season Ticket kit. This month’s featured spice is tabil, from Tunisia. The ingredient kit, which will be available at the beginning of the month at the library, will feature a sample of the featured spice, a fact sheet and a recipe using the featured spice. Also, attend an optional virtual meeting to discuss what you made and your review of the spice. Pick up a Season Ticket kit beginning March 1, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday at the main library. Supplies are limited. Information on joining the virtual Zoom meeting is included in the kit. Free. 1-2 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-783-0229 March 23 Virtual Trivia Night! with Ronny Join for a few rounds of trivia fun. Test your knowledge of books, pop culture, music and more, live. Free. 6:30 p.m. Facebook – Fort Smith Public Library March 24 What’s Up with B Check in with host Miss B for news from, about and for the library’s community. Free. 1:30-2:30 p.m. Facebook – Van Buren Public Library March 24 Seed Packet Magnets Use empty seed packets with their colorful illustrations to make a magnet by watching this DIY craft video. Free. 2-3 p.m. Facebook – Alma Public Library March 25 Make It in a Minute Rachel and Tiffany demonstrate one-minute crafts for creative types into instant gratification. Watch for more DIY projects in under 60 seconds. Free. 2 p.m. Facebook – Fort Smith Public Library March 31 What’s Up with B Live from the library in Van Buren. Keep up with the community and new books and services. Free. 1:30-2:30 p.m. Facebook – Van Buren Public Library March 31 Recipe Club – Green Salad It’s spring. Use tender greens to make a bright, healthy salad. Ms. Reeca shows the process and recipe on video. Free. 2-3 p.m. Facebook-Alma Public Library April 4 Easter Sunday

“Keep Your Head Down and Your Eyes Open,” installation. 36

March 17 Recipe Club Participants this week will share recipes for fruit salsa. Ms. Reeca demonstrates the preparation in a video. Free. 2-3 p.m. Facebook – Alma Public Library

March 2021

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Entries pouring in for Fort Smith’s first film festival, Aug. 13-14 Local and regional filmmakers have a special opportunity to enter the Fort Smith International Film Festival, even first-time and student directors. Through April 30, they may enter films for free. River Valley residency is defined as Sebastian, Sequoyah, Crawford, Le Flore, Franklin, Scott, Logan, Pope or Yell counties. Planners of the competitive festival, announced last month, are finding support from organizations and individuals to help local, student auteurs enter this festival, at the high school and college level. Brandon Goldsmith, executive director of this inaugural FSIFF, encourages student filmmakers to find out what is on offer by reading the latest news at fortsmithfilm.com. The University of Arkansas-Fort Smith is providing scholarship awards to student entrants who are eligible for financial aid and who will enroll and attend UAFS to receive those scholarships. Details can be found at the film festival website. A Champ Williams Documentary Award will memorialize the outstanding Fort Smith native and award-winning director and photographer of nature subjects. More than 80 films from the U.S. and beyond have been entered online through the portal filmfreeway.com. Screeners are already watching these films to select the final contestants in eight diverse and inclusive categories. Entries will be accepted through June 6 and selections will be announced July 2 for the Aug. 13-14 festival in downtown Fort Smith. See fortsmithfilm.com for entry rules and contact information. Films are to be uploaded at filmfreeway.com.

NARRATIVE FEATURE

STUDENT FILM

PEOPLE OF COLOR

DOCUMENTARY

MUSIC VIDEO

ANIMATION

INDIGENOUS PEOPLES

SHORT FILM

The festival will showcase diverse films that tell authentic stories that relate to the human experience. This two-day event, set to take place in Fort Smith Aug. 13-14, will explore diverse experiences and the way they coalesce on the big screen as cultural, historical, and identifying markers to who we are as artists, and as individuals. To encourage local participation and to celebrate our local talent, River Valley Filmmakers are eligible to submit their first film, free, now through April 30, in eight diverse and inclusive categories.

Held in downtown Fort Smith at various venues with film, panel discussions, music, food and more.

March 2021

Entertainment Fort Smith

Entertainment Fort Smith Magazine - March 2021