Entertainment Fort Smith - September 2015

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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 CALLINE ELLIS REBA MIZE CANDISE MONTEMAYOR BRITTANY RANSOM KARRIE KELLY JOE WASSON Contributing Photographers GLENN GILLEY KARRIE KELLY REBA MIZE KRISTAN ROLAND HENRY UDOUJ Portrait of Loren McDaniel courtesy Miss Arkansas Pageant Inc.

Advertising Sales Advertising Coordinator KARRIE KELLY karrie@efortsmith.com 479-494-1888 CHARLES G. HUBBARD Corporate Sales 479-831-3995 CALVIN EVANS Account Executive 479-494-1888 Bookkeeping JULIE BERCH HAMILTON accounts@efortsmith.com 479-494-1888 THE INCOMPARABLE DAVID CARTER In Memoriam © 2015 eFortSmith.com Media, Inc. 316 North 7th Street P.O. Box 1341 Fort Smith, AR 72902-1341 Office: 479-494-1888

www.efortsmith.com

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Entertainment Fort Smith

September 2015

Here’s to the crazy ones That’s not an original quote, but as we make this magazine on Apple computers, Apple’s iconic tagline comes to my mind as the right toast to some people written about in this issue.

Invite artists from all over the globe to paint the walls of downtown Fort Smith? Sure, let’s do it, said Steve Clark. It’s not like he was already busy running a company, Pro-Pak Logistics, or renovating a landmark, the Friedman-Mincer building.

He persuaded several more “crazy” people to underwrite the festival or hype it ( John McIntosh, known crazy one.) I teased Mac that he was inviting me to watch paint dry, but suddenly the Unexpected Project is upon us and I’ll be darned if I’m not intrigued to see what eight iconoclastic, “crazy” artists are going to create downtown the first week of September.

Crazy Greer Farris (no apostrophes needed) shared with us a beautiful photo of his sculpture titled “Tossed About” installed in front of the stunning new Windgate Art & Design center at UA-Fort Smith, a new asset to actually promote and nurture more “crazy” creativity. We’re for it!

Is it insane to build a practice room addition to your home to accommodate your child’s talent? Maybe not, if that daughter achieves national prizes, as Isabella Udouj has done as a baton twirler, with the support of her mom and dad Melissa and Dr. Henry Udouj III. Is it crazy to keep driving after a goal when you are forced to create a workaround to achieve it? Not according to Sam T. Sicard, Bill Hanna, Drew Linder and other urban trailblazers whose plans to create continuous, connected walking trails for the whole city were set back by an election. Last month, they and the city directors found a way to move that project onward in a win/win plan for Fort Smith.

And – this is related – is it crazy to think that soon many walkers will stroll the riverfront portion of those new trails past a completed U.S. Marshals Museum? It is not nuts, says the smart and always “do-right” philanthropic family of the late Ross Pendergraft, who recently made a generous gift to create one of the exhibits inside that future educational facility and national-caliber tourism attraction.

Other cities may find it crazy that so many of our civic facilities and parks are landscaped by volunteer Master Gardeners. But they are and you are invited by enthusiastic green-thumb volunteers to join them, in another article in this issue.

No, it isn’t crazy to think that sharing our past is relevant today, as Joe Wasson shows in writing about the upcoming program marking a historic event that took place here 150 years ago. The National Historic Site’s symposium on the Grand Council of 1865 will only emphasize, again, that Fort Smith’s fate is vitally linked to that of the Five Civilized Tribes. Even now, the attractions operated by the Cherokee and Choctaw nations play a significant role in this city’s economy from across the river in the I.T. I can quickly think of other “crazy ones,” such as the founders of the first Steel Horse Rally, the first Fort Smith Marathon and the first Peacemaker Music & Arts Festival. This summer, especially, has been marked by optimism and original ideas made real by can-do citizens.

We were “crazy” to found this magazine 15 years ago and by golly – oh, wait. We are crazy, still, and only “crazy ones” work here. (With one exception. You know who you are.)

– Lynn Wasson

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CONTENTS

features

10 12 14

10 More like this: art attack

Maser

Photo by You’ve Got the Look

Miss Arkansas Loren McDaniel

16 18 27 32

15 There she is!

Paint the Town: The Unexpected Project Downtown Fort Smith is about to get a lot more colorful as a group of invited international artists creates large murals at a dozen locations.

Twirling to the Top For the first time, Southside High School has a feature twirler for its award-winning majorette line. Isabelle Udouj is a top national twirler. By Brittany Ransom

Gift to the Marshals Museum, coin sales bring its opening closer The family of Ross Pendergraft has given $1 million to underwrite one of the permanent exhibits of the U.S. Marshals Museum. Marshals coin sales also increase.

They want you: the Master Gardeners welcome new members An upcoming class will train volunteers to be Master Gardeners. Member Calline Ellis explains the process and recommends it to interested gardeners.

Eddie Lee Herndon cheers on the United Way The Fort Smith area’s new executive director of the United Way is a Clarksville native who came “home” to lead the city’s most diverse and all-encompassing fundraiser.

Happy Trails to Us Using diplomacy, determination and an impressive financing favor, the Fort Smith Trails & Greenways community organization pursues the goal of a walkable city.

150 Years Ago, Native Americans and the U.S. met warily Extraordinary photographs of the Grand Council of 1865, when Native American leaders came to Fort Smith to parley with the federal government. By Joe Wasson

columns

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Hot Stuff by Linda Seubold Dedicated Van Buren donors and volunteers such as Randy Smith are fiercely protective of the city’s historic Fairview Cemetery.

departments

28 74

WHAT’S COOKING Kristan Roland shares new ideas with cheesecake ingredients.

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42 Faces of 150 years ago

Entertainment Fort Smith

September 2015

30 GARDENING Reba Mize says garden tourism counts as gardening research.

DINING GUIDE Saké Sushi & Martini Bar celebrates the artistry of sushi.

eve n t s

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September 2015

EVENTS FOR KIDS Visit the new Scott Family Amazeum.

55 CALENDAR OF EVENTS

MUSIC & PERFORMANCE Includes the free concerts of the fair.

On the cover: Isabella Udouj, feature twirler. Photo by her grandfather, Henry Udouj

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BY LINDA SEUBOLD

Van Buren volunteers and donors love and protect Fairview Cemetery Van Buren residents and business owners take very seriously any threat or harm to the city's historic Fairview Cemetery.

The 10-acre cemetery, located on a gently sloping hillside overlooking the original main street of Van Buren, has been a burial ground since at least 1816. It was donated to the city by its founder, John Drennen, in 1837.

Fairview also is the final resting place of figures as diverse as Drennen himself and a slave named Paralee Stewart, whose son Bass Reeves became legendary deputy U.S. marshal Reeves for Fort Smith's most famous U.S. District Court judge, Isaac C. Parker.

In July, when vandals knocked over 35 of the cemetery's 19th-century monuments, the cemetery’s most-dedicated volunteer, Randy Smith, said he was thankful – but not surprised – to see local residents and businesses immediately volunteer funds and services to repair and restore the damage.

Smith, who worked from 2000 to 2005 to help the cemetery meet all requirements to be placed on the National Register of Historic Places, was happy to see a First Bank of Van Buren account quickly established for donations to be used for the five damaged monuments requiring professional restoration.

Michael Ocker of Ocker Monuments in Van Buren and Sam Flocks at Cotner Monuments in Fort Smith donated their services to immediately reset and repoint the other 30 monuments.

Smith speculated the perpetrators were likely bored, inebriated or both.

He said it looked as if the vandals had just knocked all 30 of them down while cutting across Fairview on foot.

Smith, manager of Edwards Van-Alma Funeral Home, became a Fairview Cemetery volunteer in 2000. When he began learning about the lives and histories represented by original carvings and engravings on the cemetery's monuments and noted how time and the elements were threatening them, he became determined to try to help restore and preserve the cemetery's history.

“Now, I have my marriage, my work and Fairview,” Smith said. “My wife, Stacey, puts up with a lot, and even volunteers for our annual Tales of the Crypt programs. I've become fascinated by the monuments and history in Fairview – even the ones with spelling mistakes and backward or crudely executed letters. They did the best they could at the time ... some of these markers are now considered folk art.”

Information he gleans from tombstones, monuments and burial records also help Smith give UA-Fort Smith Historic Interpretation Program director Tom Wing a list of people to consider for portrayal by his students at the cemetery's Tales of the Crypt event each October. Proceeds from the event are used to help preserve Fairview monuments, along with private donations and the successful preservation grants Smith has pursued.

About 40 Fairview monuments have been professionally restored and the cemetery's original carriage steps have been replaced.

Wallace Children's Commemorative Monument, the first to be restored, has become the “face” of Fairview's preservation efforts. It was accomplished through grants from the Arkansas Historic Preservation 8

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September 2015

One example of transformation through professional restoration.

Program and matching funds from the city of Van Buren.

Smith also hosts several field trips made to the cemetery each year by Van Buren students and civic and leadership groups. He has led tours of the cemetery with visitors from at least 25 different states – with the majority of them saying they learned online about Fairview being a National Register of Historic Places destination.

While the cemetery is very obviously a burial ground, Smith said, it also can serve as a classroom for sharing the history of Van Buren and its residents.

And, the way Van Buren residents and businesses immediately rallied in July to help restore the damaged monuments has made him more determined than ever to continue pursuing funding for the cemetery's preservation and protection.

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hat will appear on the blank walls of downtown Fort Smith this week?

Eight artists will soon begin to show us as the public is invited to watch enormous, diverse images emerge during The Unexpected Project’s Festival of Murals.

The street art will materialize at the hands of significant American and international artists Sept. 4-13.

A 10-block area downtown will become an outdoor gallery for street art during the same month a new permanent gallery and studios open at the Windgate Art & Design Building at University of Arkansas-Fort Smith.

This convergence of art events is not accidental, but it is unexpected – hence the name of this project conceived by Steve Clark, the businessman currently renovating one of downtown’s landmark buildings as a new headquarters for Propak Logistics, one of his ventures. Other local companies and individuals have joined Clark to underwrite the mural festival, according to festival director John McIntosh.

Clark’s affinity for public art, graffiti writers and “street” galleries has resulted, even before this month’s festival, in his sponsorship of several existing, gigantic, local works. Almost everyone who travels Garrison Avenue can see a portrait of military hero William O. Darby painted at the U.S. Post Office parking lot by the Irish street artist called Maser.

Fewer people, perhaps, have driven to the far end of the Quarry Shopping Center to turn back and regard Maser’s previous work (there have been two; the present art was a collaboration of Maser and with another Irish artist, Conor Harrington) on the exterior wall of Boardertown Skate Park. Local skaters know the interior of the skatepark, also established by Clark, is covered from floor to ramps to halfpipes with art created by notable graffiti writers.

Conventional genre labels slide off this “outsider” art form like wet spray paint dripping down a wall. Whatever the eight artists selected by Charlotte Dutoit, an experienced designer of large-scale art events and gallery shows, choose to produce, the resulting artwork will, indeed, be unexpected.

Maser has worked with Dutoit on several projects, including the Life is Beautiful festival in Las Vegas and Coachella, the arts and music festival held in Palm Springs, Calif. Visiting Fort Smith in March, she instantly saw the potential of its downtown area as a giant canvas.

“Downtown Fort Smith could be poised to become the largest outdoor art gallery in the state,” she observed. Some of the work will last and some will degrade naturally until it fades from the walls. Dutoit sent invitations to artists worldwide. The group who will be painting here Sept. 6-13 are: Vhils, a native of Portugal and popular urban graffiti artist in Europe D*Face, or Dean Stockton, a U.K. artist Roa, a Belgian muralist who, like Banksey, keeps his identity secret Ben Eine, a London-based artist known for large, single letters Ana Maria of Houston, via Puerto Rico, a muralist Bicicleta Sem Freio, a team of Brazilians known worldwide Spoken-word artists Malcolm London and Kevin Coval, Chicago poets and activists, are a part of the invited collective of artists. They perform Sept. 10. Local artists are invited to an Art in the Park day Sept. 12.

Maser’s Darby mural near the corner of Garrison and Towson avenues.

Windgate Art & Design Building Opens: Gallery, studios benefit all of UAFS

T

he creative community now has a splendid home base in the UAFS Windgate Art & Design Building at Kinkead Avenue and Waldron Road. Students of every discipline began classes there last month.

In concert with the Unexpected Mural Festival, a companion gallery exhibit will open from 6-9 p.m. Sept. 3. It also will be a chance to tour the 58,000-square-foot building that now brings under one roof all classes in photography, printing, sculpture and art history, as well as freshmen programs in drawing, 2-and 3-D design, typography and digital imaging.

The letterpress and printmaking operations, graphic design laboratories and a 150-seat film theater are also in the Windgate building.

A $15.5 million grant from Windgate Charitable Foundation made possible this longneeded building. UAFS will raise another $2.5 million to establish an endowment to support the facility.

The Windgate Foundation, based in Siloam Springs, Ark., has Fort Smith roots in the Hutcheson Shoe Co., a local manufacturer purchased by Walmart. Owner Bill Hutcheson and his mother, Dorothea Hutcheson, endowed the Windgate foundation afterward, in 1993. It has given millions to arts and education programs.

Printology, the opening exhibit, teams with The Unexpected mural festival to display a survey of prints by some of the best-known, current “street” artists, such as graffiti giants Banksy, Invader and Shepherd Fairey. The exhibit runs through October. It is curated by JUSTKIDS and sponsored by the UAFS Foundation.

Visitors are welcome from now on to enjoy all exhibits and student works at the Windgate.

PRINTOLOGY

SEPT. 3 | 6-9 p.m.

Gallery Exhibit reception, opening UAFS Windgate Art & Design Building

PAINTING

SEPT. 4 | all day Mural painting begins in downtown Fort Smith Spectators welcome

PERFORMANCE SEPT. 10 | 6 p.m.

Spoken Word Night Malcolm London and Kevin Coval The Blue Lion 101 North 2nd Street

COMPLETION

SEPT. 12-13 | all day Artists complete their murals.

ART IN THE PARK SEPT. 12 | all day

Ross Pendergraft Park Splash the Deck contest student winners announced for skateboard deck art.

FESTIVAL HQ

Sept. 4-12 | 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

521 Garrison Avenue (former Sacred Grounds)

Tossed About (opposite) is an aluminum sculpture by Greer Farris, installed at the door of the Windgate building. Peggy and Bill Weidman are its patrons.

September 2015

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Twirling Her Way to the Top Sophomore Isabella Udouj first-ever featured twirler at Southside

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hen Isabella Udouj started twirling, she wasn’t much bigger than the baton in her hand. Nearly a decade later, with multiple national awards under her belt, the 15-year-old sophomore will make history as Southside High School’s first-ever featured twirler.

Udouj picked up her first baton at 6 and entered her first competition just a year later.

Her mother, a former twirler, introduced her young daughter to the sport. “I was a majorette in high school and twirled at the University of Arkansas,” Melissa said. “So, it was kind of a given that I would share that with Isabella.”

In the past nine years, the two have logged countless hours on the road to practices and competitions throughout the country. They frequently venture to Dallas, where Isabella’s primary twirling coach lives, for training and choreography.

“Isabella is the only competitive twirler in this area of the state, which means we have to travel quite a bit for her sport,” explained Melissa, who also helps with Isabella’s training.

The two are often joined by other members of the family, including Isabella’s dad, Dr. Henry Udouj III, and her brother, Joseph, 11. Isabella’s grandparents also get in on the fun, with Grandpa Henry serving as the “official” photographer at Isabella’s competition.

“We tease him about being her paparazzi because of all the photos he takes,” joked Melissa. “He has been taking pictures of her competing since she was little.”

Her “G’pa” had the chance to snap lots of photos this summer, as Isabella returned to the National Baton Twirling Association’s America’s Youth on Parade event at the University of Notre Dame to compete for the national title. It was her seventh year at the prestigious contest, which serves as a preliminary for the World Open. Isabella earned several high honors, adding more prizes to her already overflowing trophy case. She placed in the Top 10 in the solo, two-baton, strut and three-baton categories for her age division. She also earned a spot in the Top 5 for her partner duet in the advanced category.

To achieve such status in the twirling world has required a great deal of sacrifice and commitment from Isabella. “She never really complains 12

Entertainment Fort Smith

September 2015

Isabella Udouj performs a rhythmic routine at the 2014 nationals competition.

about practicing and such,” Melissa said. “She’s always known what she had to do to compete.”

On average, Isabella devotes two hours a day to practicing, which includes twirling with up to three batons at one time. Her parents even built a special room in their house, complete with high ceilings, to give Isabella her own indoor practice space.

“When we were building on, I kept asking my husband if we go could make the ceilings even higher. He finally looked at me and said, ‘No, they can’t go any higher than that,’” Melissa joked.

In addition to baton, Isabella has taken years of dance lessons.

Specializing primarily in ballet and jazz, the training has proven valuable

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to her twirling career. “Dance has made me better at memorizing choreography,” Isabella said. “It has also improved my overall poise and grace, which all play a role in contests, too.”

The discipline she has learned through her sport has proven beneficial to Isabella in other areas of her life, as well. “I know it has helped me in so many ways, like teaching me how to manage my time and priorities well. I have learned other skills, such as how to interview and answer judges’ questions through the different rounds at competitions. I know it is all good preparation for my college and career.”

Isabella also finds the time and energy spent worth it because of the lifelong friendships she has made. “My twirling friends and I are really supportive of one another and I know that we will remain friends.”

Fresh off of the competition season, which lasts from January through July, Isabella is excited to turn her attention to performing at halftime with the Southside band. “I love competing, but performing for a big crowd on the field is really fun, too. Competitions are very technical, while doing a routine with the band is more about being showy and pulling off big tricks.”

Her mother joked that they couldn’t quite convince the school to let Isabella pull out all the

stops. “She would love to break out the fire batons, but I don’t think they want to risk it on that fancy turf. She’ll have to save those for when she practices with her other twirling friends.”

Although he may not be willing to endanger the football field with flaming batons, Southside band director Sean Carrier is thrilled to have Isabella perform as the featured twirler and believes her skills and attitude will be a great asset to the group.

“Some students you encounter are exceptional. The first time I saw Isabella, I knew she was truly exceptional,” said Carrier. “She is highly motivated, talented, kind and her skills on baton are out of this world. The sky is truly the limit with her.”

Isabella is grateful to have the opportunity to showcase her unique talent to the community and is looking forward to marching out onto the field this season.

“I was more nervous in junior high when I twirled at Ramsey, but now I can just hardly wait to get out there and perform for my school,” said Isabella. “Getting the chance to be part of Southside’s incredible band and do the sport I love ... there is just nothing like it.”

– Brittany Ransom

Isabella, clockwise from top, at a national competition in 2011, performing with the Ramsey Junior High School band and as a 6-year-old in her first competition.

September 2015

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U.S. MARSHALS MUSEUM

Why Marshals? multi-media theater receives underwriting by the Ross Pendergraft family

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permanent exhibit for the U.S. Marshals Museum will be called the Why Marshals? Theater.

Inside, visitors will hear and see many aspects of the history and purpose of the federal law enforcement service’s role in America’s system of justice.

The theater is being underwritten by a gift from the family of the late Ross Pendergraft of Fort Smith, a Donrey Media executive and businessman. Pendergraft’s wife, Donnie, and their children and grandchildren have made this gift and other generous endowments locally, often to educational and public facilities.

“If Ross were around, we know this would be so important to him,” said his son Neal Pendergraft, speaking on behalf of the entire family. “My mother hopes, with this gift, to encourage others to contribute, as well.”

Pendergraft commended the hard work of museum supporters and said the efforts of the staff and the support of the whole community have advanced the museum project well past the tipping point.

“I firmly believe that and can’t wait to see it done,” he said.

Commemorative U.S. Marshals coins now available locally U.S. Marshals Service 225th silver dollar commemorative coins can now be purchased in two area Walmart stores. The limited edition silver dollar coins will be available for $51.95 at the Walmart stores on Zero Street in Fort Smith and Liberty Drive in Greenwood.

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The museum and Walmart announced the availability of the coins last month. A portion of the purchase price of the coin is designated to support the museum, which last year held groundbreaking ceremonies on the Fort Smith riverfront.

“We appreciate Walmart, and the entire Fort Smith community, for their continued support of the U.S. Marshals Museum,” said Jim Dunn, president and CEO of the museum. “We hope everyone will go out and purchase one of these beautiful silver dollar coins to honor the men and women of the U.S. Marshals Service and help bring this important project closer to the finish line.”

The silver dollar, produced by the United States Mint, highlights the role the U.S. Marshals Service played in the American West. The coin’s reverse side depicts a frontier U.S. Marshal holding a “Wanted in Fort Smith” poster. The obverse side depicts a U.S. Marshals Service star and the silhouettes of deputies on horseback pursuing a fugitive. Both images call to mind the grit of those who served here.

The future facility will be a national museum located here. Plans include permanent exhibit galleries, the Samuel M. Sicard Hall of Honor and a National Learning Center. The museum will tell the more than 225-year story of the U.S. Marshals Service, the country’s oldest law enforcement agency, and honor the sacrifice of marshals killed in the line of duty. For more information, visit usmarshalsmuseum.org.

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Photo by Kattie Hansen, Queen Bee Studios

SEPTEMBER 13

5 quick questions with Miss Arkansas, Loren McDaniel This phone interview had to be quick! Loren McDaniel, 22, who was crowned Miss Arkansas in July, will soon travel to Atlantic City to represent our state in the Miss America Pageant. It airs nationally Sept. 13 on the ABC television network.

1

Who’s going to Atlantic City with you?

“My parents are coming from Van Buren and my older sister, Jordan, and her husband; my grandparents and a lot of friends and extended family. It’s a long two weeks for me but the fact that so many people have told me they’re coming kind of makes you teary-eyed! That they’re going to be there to support me really means the world to me.”

2

What are your life and career plans?

“Before Miss Arkansas, I was headed to the

University of Alabama for a graduate degree with a master’s in fine arts and acting, but now I have deferred for a year to be Miss Arkansas. If we don’t win Miss America (and I hope we do!)

I’ll return and serve as ambassador for our state.

My job is to highlight what our communities and people are doing to make a difference and make it as little about me as possible. This is the year that I put my personal life on the back burner to serve the state of Arkansas.”

3

Your platform is about self-esteem?

“It’s called Confidently Yours. I try to help people understand it’s not only an anti-bullying campaign. We need confident individuals to stand up and speak up for themselves whether it is against bullying or domestic violence – so it is for all ages. Every kid struggles. I talk about how much we moved when I was growing up. At a

young age, I lacked that self-confidence but if I can say one word that a child latches onto that makes a difference, then I’ve done my job.”

4

What talent will you perform?

“I’m singing ‘Bring Him Home’ from my favorite musical, Les Mis. I played Fantine in the Young Actors Guild production of the musical.”

Loren added that she is still close with many friends and adults from YAG and knows they will be watching the Miss America Pageant.

5

You use the word “we” a lot. Why? “Because it is not all about just me. I have an amazing prep team, they’re so professional.

I hope my name is called and I get to represent all of Arkansas on the final night. But if it is not, I’ll be proud to come home and serve my home state of Arkansas.”

September 2015

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VOLUNTEERING

Master Gardeners invite new folks to take their class, volunteer in public gardens and join the growing fun Editors note: We invited an experienced Master Gardener, Calline Ellis, to write about the fun of joining their class and program.

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e Master Gardeners are volunteers from Sebastian and Crawford counties in Arkansas, as well as LeFlore and Sequoyah counties in Oklahoma. Our individual interests are as varied as we are. We are all willing to share what we know but no one knows it all.

This year's Master Gardening class brought our numbers up to 184. We each completed 40 hours of comprehensive classroom training in horticulture, soil, irrigation, insects and disease with the commitment to volunteer 40 hours the first year. Each year after that, the commitment is 20 volunteer hours to maintain our designation as Master Gardeners. We are also required to obtain 20 hours of continuing education each year. As of December 2014, our work is valued at $22.55/hour (Arkansas Department of Community Service and Nonprofit Support) and most volunteers far exceed the required hours each year. Last year, 2014, about 150 River Valley Master Gardeners logged more 16

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than 9,000 hours in volunteer work on our sanctioned projects. We love the work and helping make our city beautiful.

We have 16 varied, sanctioned projects, including the Clayton House Herb Garden, Miss Laura's Visitor Center, Hebe Fountain in Van Buren, Herbal Adventures, Popeye's Garden in Alma, Cisterna Plaza and many more. We are each required to work six hours each year tending the 30-plus beds that total 14,300 square feet at the Fort Smith Convention Center.

We have two projects that have their own 501c3 status: the annual Lawn and Garden Show, which had its 22nd year in 2015 and the more recent but well-established Learning Fields at Chaffee Crossing.

We have plant sales, a Speakers Bureau and we help with the county fairs. All of these projects further our purpose, which is to assist the county agent in educating the public. We do this by planting educational and therapeutic gardens, answering questions, providing public speakers, researching specific problems and producing a monthly newsletter. Our Sebastian County Extension agent is Lance Kirkpatrick.

The Arkansas Master Gardeners Program is made possible by the Division of Agriculture, Cooperative Extension Service.

With programs in 65 of the 75 counties, the Master Gardener program is a powerful force in Arkansas. Our Arkansas River Valley program had its first class in 1991. We still have members from our first class, which is a testimony to their commitment.

We recently voted to host the State Master Gardener Conference in 2018. It will bring lots of folks to Fort Smith and it will allow us to showcase our city, as well as our projects and personal gardens.

Do you want to be a Master Gardener?

Contact Lance Kirkpatrick, 497-484-7737, for the next scheduled class. Check out the program on the website of the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture Cooperative Extension Service, which contains the application form.

Classes are limited in size and trainees must be committed to volunteering after the training.

There is a cost for the class, which includes a mega-sized notebook with specific information regarding gardening in our River Valley.

We would love to have you join us.

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SEPTEMBER 5-6

Master Gardeners do a multitude of projects

Master Gardeners plan and present an annual Lawn & Garden Show each spring with show gardens, education and commercial vendors.

More than 16 public landscapes in this area were created and are maintained by Master Gardeners fulfilling their service-hour requirements.

Two volunteers here landscape at the Fort Smith Convention Center.

It takes a very large crew of Master Gardeners to help plant the hundreds of colorful mums into the parterre gardens on the great lawn at the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith.

What’s the buzz about? Save the bees!

Sept. 5-6 Honeybee & Pollinator Fest September is National Honey Month and honeybees are the official insect of Arkansas. Fort Smith has an official honeybee colony, the beehive at The Learning Fields at Chaffee Crossing.

Honeybees, native bees and all pollinators are in peril. Honeybees continue to die from an unsolved syndrome called colony collapse.

Bats, also pollinators, are threatened by white nose syndrome. The improper use of pesticides, loss of habitat for foraging and other human activity contribute to the decline.

The Learning Fields at Chaffee Crossing is holding a Honeybee & Pollinator Festival in support of these vital living creatures.

In 2014, the Master Gardeners of the Learning Fields launched a honeybee and pollinator program designed to create habitat, sanctuary and conservation of pollinators. Many of these adverse conditions can be reversed or their effects lessened or eliminated. Presentations about saving pollinators will be given by authorities, scientists and professors of botany, entomology and the environment.

Kids and aspiring beekeepers may see a demonstration hive at the Learning Fields and taste this year’s harvest of honey. Learn more about the role all pollinators play in your own garden. The two days also offer family fun at a Great Pumpkin weigh-in, games and prizes for kids, Children’s Garden activities, a fall plant sale, garden exhibits, an hourly honey raffle, gifts, free food and snacks. Admission is free.

9 a.m.-3 p.m. Sept. 5; noon-5 p.m. Sept. 6. The Learning Fields at Chaffee Crossing, 7300 Gardeners Avenue, Fort Smith.

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Keeping It Local New director using traveling numbers to spread the word about United Way

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t was more than his Arkansas roots that drew new United Way executive director Eddie Lee Herndon to the Fort Smith region.

Although a native of nearby Clarksville, Herndon has spent the past few decades in the Volunteer State, most recently as the president of the United Way of West Tennessee. Herndon chose to come “home” in March and lead United Way of Fort Smith Area, which has been helping impact community change for nearly 90 years, after learning about the organization’s commitment to truly “keeping it local.”

It has been a whirlwind for Herndon, who has devoted his first half year to learning all about what makes United Way of Fort Smith Area and the community tick. He embarked on a “listening tour” shortly after his arrival, sitting down with staff, board members, donors, volunteers and agency directors to get their take on United Way and more.

“I wanted to hear the good, the bad and the ugly,” Herndon said. “It was important for me to hear from them directly and learn what we were doing well and identify areas where we needed to improve.”

It was no secret the local United Way had suffered from decreasing campaign totals in recent years, due primarily to a struggling economy, loss of major corporate donors and increased competition for funds. It resulted in fewer dollars for its 34 partner agencies that receive annual funding. The organization has partners in six counties, with services ranging in areas of education, income and health and include local Boys & Girls Clubs, the Community Services Clearinghouse, River Valley Regional Food Bank and more.

“Over the past few years, we have lost about 4,000 donors, but we have managed to hover right around the $2 million mark,” Herndon said.

Despite the decrease in campaign contributions, many of the organization’s programs continue to thrive, including its community impact initiatives. Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, which mails books to children ages birth to 5, has soared to include more than 2,600 participants. This year, Fill the Bus also broke records, rounding up more than 57,000 packages of school supplies for students in need.

Such successes, combined with what Herndon believes is perhaps United Way’s greatest asset, has helped the new director be optimistic about the 2015-2016 campaign.

“One of the things that brought me to this United Way was the fact that 100 percent of the dollars raised are used to benefit the partner agencies and programs,” explained Herndon. “Our administrative costs, 18

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including salaries, are funded entirely by the interest from our endowment, which was made possible by the late Mr. Rollie Boreham and other generous donors in the community. This is rare in non-profits and a true testament to the faith that our supporters have in this organization. Contributors can give and be confident that their funds are making a direct impact in the counties we serve.”

Spreading the word about the 100 percent investment and how dollars are used is one of Herndon’s priorities this year. To promote the message, United Way of Fort Smith Area has utilized traveling numbers, which are being set up at companies throughout the area to encourage donors to be “the one” of 100 percent. “We plan to focus on increasing overall percent participation, especially through payroll deduction. Everyone can do something. If each person would choose to give even a little out of each paycheck, the results would be incredible.”

The campaign is off to a busy start, with August filled with Pacesetter presentations and events. This year, 26 companies served as United Way Pacesetters, helping jump-start fundraising efforts.

Historically, Pacesetter companies bring in more nearly half of the overall fund drive total. That amount will be announced Sept. 16 at the official campaign kick-off celebration.

Herndon also has big plans and new ideas for how to market United Way on a regional level. United Way of Fort Smith Area will offer supporters the chance to purchase discounted tickets to the Oct. 31 Arkansas vs. Tennessee-Martin football game in Fayetteville. For $30, donors and volunteers will receive admission and a Live United T-shirt. At half-time, participants will make their way onto the field for a special photo opportunity. Tickets are limited to the first 400 supporters.

“This will be a unique way for us to say thank you and to market our organization, all while enjoying some Razorback football,” said devoted Hog fan Herndon.

Herndon is glad to be back in Arkansas and proud to be part of a community so committed to caring for its own.

“Decisions are made here by volunteers who decide on how dollars are spent. The programs we support have a great set of values that mirrors the values of our community,” explained Herndon. “It is like the story of the pebble and the pond. You throw just one pebble in and it continues to ripple outward. We have the opportunity to advocate and to be that pebble in the pond.” unitedwayfortsmith.org

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HOME & GARDEN

Van Buren has a shop for all Seasons

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an Buren gained a new shopping destination when Seasons, a fashion, home, garden and gift store, opened in late 2013.

Deborah Yeager Clark, a Van Buren native and member of a family with a long-standing talent for retail, wanted to open a particular style of store for home decorating and gifts and knew the right friends to operate it.

Deborah purchased 910 Broadway, which has been in her family for close to 60 years, from her father. She wanted to give her hometown a unique, new shopping experience.

“We wanted to offer shoppers one-stop shopping for different sorts of gifts, whether for babies, housewarming, showers, weddings or special occasions, that they probably couldn’t find all in one place in Van Buren,” Deborah said. “We started selling clothing six months after opening, and the clothing has become our

Designer Colleen Pyle (left) with owner Deborah Clark. Both model selections from Seasons.

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Apparel and accessories on display.

backbone and it continues to grow. The business sign doesn’t include the word boutique because that’s not how we started, but we quickly evolved to add the clothing and accessories.”

The decorated storefront windows that reflect the changing seasons are painted by Colleen Pyle, the store’s manager and a floral designer with years of experience. Colleen’s creativity is evident in the shop’s appealing displays. She also helps customers decorate their homes for holidays and special events such as charitable fundraisers.

If a client wants their home’s front door decorated, Colleen will create something or rework an existing design, including the homeowner in the process to customize each door to their own taste. She also does special order Christmas tree toppers.

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HOME & GARDEN Customers can pick out ribbon for custom pieces. “My favorite thing is involving the client in the creative process. The happy face of the client when the project is completed is very gratifying,” said Colleen. Seasons is already booking for fall and holiday decorations.

Clothing and gifts are presented attractively throughout the store. Jewelry and other women’s accessories are located in the middle by the register so everything is easy to find. A beautiful indoor gazebo in the back of the store is where to find many half-off sale items.

“We want to keep our items reasonably priced so anyone can come in and purchase merchandise at a fair price,” Deborah said.

There are plenty of great finds. Clothing and accessories such as the popular lines Piko, Urban Mangoz, Umgee and John Wind Jewelry are offered. Collegiate wear for sports fans and more on-trend items are part of the boutique.

“We will get more collegiate items to kick off football season and more shoes because they’ve sold very well,” Deborah said.

Baby Ganz onesies, stuffed animals and nursery decor are included in the irresistible baby gift selection.

Seasons is stocked full of garden treasures: interchangeable monogram doormats, beautiful wind chimes, hand-made yard art and garden flags.

Customers shopping for gifts will find a wide selection. Glory Haus frames and mugs, Primitives frames and signs by Kathy, Wild Hair tea towels with funny quotes, Dammit dolls to relieve frustration and the very popular Old World Christmas ornaments are available.

Like Seasons’ Facebook and Instagram pages or sign up in the store to be the first to learn about upcoming sales and events.

Seasons 910 Broadway, Van Buren, Ark. 479-262-6230 Open 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Tuesday-Friday; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday.

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home & garden goodies

Eight ball card holder, billiards note pad and magnets found at Prestigious Pool Care.

Electric Floral 5-piece comforter set

by Ashley from Furniture Emporium.

Maison Blanche paints available at The Goods.

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home & garden goodies

Insulated lunch bags and a backpack by Skip Hop from Polka Dotted Zebra.

set um.

Chalk sign and pillow with a small sunflower bouquet found at Greenwood Flower and Gift Shop.

Razorback mug, ice bucket and a sequined Game Day top available at Designer Again.

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home & garden goodies

Razorback cutting board and martini and shot glasses and UV sriracha-flavored vodka available at In Good Spirits.

Trio of owl figurines by Ganz found at Creative Furnishings by Jean.

Organic grain, non-GMO Snackimals cookies in a variety of flavors from Paul’s Meat Market.

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home & garden goodies

Spa cover by Cover Butler found at Luther Stem Pools and Spas.

Organic and non-GMO Barlean’s Greens and Superfruit Greens, Garden of Life wheat grass juice powder and Just Barley nutrition support powder from Olde Fashioned Food.

Royal french fry cutter available at Dennie Snow Restaurant Supply.

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home & garden goodies Terra cotta jack-o’-lanterns come in all shapes and sizes at Neumeier Nursery & Florist.

Arkansas pride printed tea towels available at Now and Then Shoppe.

Rocky Patel luxury amber circulos ashtray found at Winston’s Pipes and Cigar Emporium.

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HAPPY TRAILS

Trails & Greenways advocates Sam T. Sicard, Drew Linder and Bill Hanna on the Old Railroad Trail near Rogers Avenue and Free Ferry Road.

Trail of progress: Trails & Greenways moving forward

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o reach the end of a trail, you have to keep walking around, over and through the obstacles on the path.

Members of the Fort Smith Trails & Greenways committee are applying diplomacy, grit and an admirable pledge of private funding to get to their goal: a walkable Fort Smith. This citizen-led group advocates for safe, off-street routes for walking, running and cycling.

And they’ve just cleared out another obstacle on the trail.

Recently, the group persuaded the Fort Smith Parks & Recreation Department to re-apportion some of its existing budget within a five-year capital improvement plan, and convinced the city’s board of directors to affirm that change.

Those actions, plus a key offer by trail supporters to help finance trail construction it would like to see done in the immediate future, won over city government.

Sam T. Sicard, representing First National Bank as its president and CEO, offered the City of Fort Smith a $3 million, no-interest loan. The loan, plus a pledge by trails backers to raise $1 million more from donors, helps to shift forward funding of the trails system, when the money otherwise would have been accrued gradually and piecemeal, over a span of many years.

Continuous, connected trails transform the way people can move around town Thousands of residents already enjoy existing Fort Smith trails near parks and neighborhoods, for exercise or fun, but many have to drive to reach them.

The long-range goal of trail supporters is to connect existing trails. From citizen surveys, the trails backers and city have learned the priority routes residents want sooner.

Those three steps – apportioning $2.7 million of the parks budget for use now, the $3 million no-interest loan plus $1 million in donated funds – add up to the approximately $9 million needed to continue building trails already planned that will connect existing neighborhood and park-related trails.

A “continuous and connected” trail system is the overall goal of trails backers. Municipal planning experts, citizen surveys and real-life examples of successful trail systems in other regional towns show that cities and their citizens want – and prosper from – alternative

POPULAR TRAIL PLANS:

Chaffee Crossing Loop Riverfront West Riverfront East MAP LEGEND

Existing paved multi-use trail Proposed paved multi-use trail MAP ADAPTED FROM

CITY OF FORT SMITH 2015 Trails Plan

pathways that allow folks to move on foot or by bike. Foot power, trails fans say, is a healthier, less-polluting, friendlier alternative that benefits residents and visitors of all ages, income levels and abilities. Students taking a safer route to schools and parks; adults who jog or bike, families who also push a stroller, seniors who walk for health and tourists who can enjoy our parks and riverfront will all embrace a trail system.

Trails & Greenways members Sicard, Drew Linder and Bill Hanna and other backers are ready for Fort Smith to hit the trails.

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WHAT’S COOKING with KRISTAN ROLAND CHERRY CHEESECAKE CUPCAKES For the Cake: 1 box yellow cake mix 1 3.4-oz. box cheesecake-flavored instant pudding 1 cup milk 2/3 cup vegetable oil 3 large eggs For the Filling: 1 8-oz. package cream cheese, softened 1/3 cup granulated sugar 1 large egg 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract For the Frosting: 4 cups heavy whipping cream, chilled 2 3.4-oz. boxes cheesecake-flavored instant pudding 11⁄2 cups graham cracker crumbs 21 oz. cherry pie filling

About Kristan Kristan Roland, a work-at-home housewife living in Fort Smith, has been blogging at Confessions of a Cookbook Queen since 2010. She balances potty training, fifth-grade math homework and running a home, all while working with brands such as Pillsbury, Disney and eBay. Her recipes have been featured in Parents Magazine and Women's World Weekly. Kristan's fun, simple, everyday approach to baking isn't the only thing that draws her readers in -- it's also her honest and hilarious musings on being a wife and mother in a world where everyone else seems to have it together. confessionsofacookbookqueen.com 28 Entertainment Fort Smith September 2015

Cake: Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Line 24 cupcake tins with liners.

In the bowl of your mixer, beat cake mix, instant pudding, milk, vegetable oil and eggs on low speed for 30 seconds.

Scrape the sides of the mixing bowl and beat on medium speed for two minutes.

Fill prepared cupcake tins 2/3 full.

Cheesecake: Wipe out your mixing bowl, then beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Scrape the bowl and beat in the egg and vanilla until smooth.

Spoon a heaping teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture on top of each batter-filled tin.

Bake cupcakes until they are golden and spring back when lightly touched in the center, about 20 minutes.

Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes in pan before removing from pan to cool completely on wire rack.

Frosting: In the bowl of your mixer, beat pudding mix and heavy cream with your mixer’s whisk attachment on medium low until it begins to thicken. Increase speed to high and beat until thick – it should form stiff peaks when a spoon is pulled through it.

Generously frost cupcakes, then roll the frosting gently through graham cracker crumbs and top with a spoonful of cherry pie filling.

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TWIX CHEESECAKE BROWNIES Brownies: 1 cup salted butter, melted 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 2 cups granulated sugar 4 large eggs 1 tbsp. vanilla extract 11⁄2 cups flour 12 oz. (ish) jar hot fudge sauce Cheesecake: 1 (8 oz.) block cream cheese, softened to room temperature 7 oz. sweetened condensed milk 1 tsp. vanilla Topping: 4 full-sized Twix bars, roughly chopped (They come in pairs, so you'll have eight) Caramel sauce (I just used the stuff you put on ice cream) Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a 9-inch, round springform pan with foil, then spray with nonstick spray. Set aside.

Brownie layer: In a large bowl, whisk together the cocoa and melted butter. Stir in sugar until combined. Stir in eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla.

Fold in flour just until you no longer see flour streaks in the batter. Gently fold in hot fudge sauce. You may need to heat it just enough to spoon/pour out of jar.

Spread batter in prepared pan and bake for about 35 minutes or until the brownies are puffed, set around the edges and a knife inserted in the center comes out with fudgy crumbs/streaks but not raw batter. Let cool for about 30 minutes, then cover and refrigerate until chilled.

Cheesecake layer: In the bowl of your mixer, beat cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk and vanilla until smooth.

Spread over brownies and top with chopped Twix bars.

Chill for several hours until firm, then carefully remove from pan and peel off foil. Drizzle generously with caramel sauce before serving.

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GARDEN TRAVEL

When not digging at home, become a garden tourist

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very garden is a love story and the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks in Fayetteville was written by countless volunteers and contributors, which makes it a very passionate experience for visitors.

With these long hot days of summer coming to an end, I was looking for some garden therapy and what better place to find it than a public garden not more than an hour’s drive from our fair city?

The BGO, as they call it, began as a dream of the Botanical Garden Society of the Ozarks.

According to one of the original volunteers, Betty Swope (who, by the way, still volunteers), the 100-acre site was originally just an open field with a grand idea and a sign that said “future home” of Botanical Gardens of the Ozarks.

Fortune smiled on this garden when the former horticulturist for a New York Botanical Gardens, Carl Totemeir Jr., retired to Fayetteville. He became a director of the garden in 2001 and served until his death in 2004.

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sold plants at the Fayetteville Farmers Market.

He had been a garden writer for the New York Times and was so gracious to me, even carrying my plants to my station wagon to continue telling a great garden yarn.

Upon entering the BGO, my first thought was simply WOW! I can’t wait to tell my friends about this extraordinary space.

I was so inspired by each of the distinctly different garden areas around the Great Lawn – there are at least a dozen, including a children’s garden. Charlotte Taylor, a “friend raiser” for the garden, said the current ambition of the BGO is Learn, Play, Grow. There are weekly gardenrelated programs for children and workshops and programs for all ages. School groups and garden clubs are all welcomed.

I also spoke with Liz Hendricks Esch, special events coordinator and a Fort Smith gal!

She explained that BGO also hosts some great “friend raising” parties with a free summer concert series and events such the incredibly popular Chefs in the Garden party, Sept. 15.

The garden can be rented for special events such as weddings or private parties. On the day we visited, the garden was decked out with those great white tents for what looked like a fun evening soiree.

I was so motivated by what I could take home from the BGO, not literally, of course, but by the passion that has driven this group to create an oasis in our ever-encroaching urban world.

Around each corner was a view that made me want to write down the names of plants to try them in my own garden. Each area had a lovely place to sit and contemplate with many water features and gorgeous works of art.

Its energetic style of garden design draws you in and around the next bend.

Currently, there are 12 themed gardens with exciting plans for more. There are plenty of shady places to relax. My favorite is the porch swings in the Ozark Native Garden where I saw my first buckeye tree.

Become a garden traveler and decide which garden is your favorite.

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GARDEN TRAVEL

Inside the Butterfly House (left), a Monarch and a soon-to-emerge butterfly nestled in a jar, above.

In the native garden, we found lucky buckeyes growing on a buckeye tree, below.

Near the entrance to the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks, the gorgeous scent of a glorious bunch of Asiatic lilies was intoxicating. All the plants are tagged so a gardener can discover what she would love to plant next year.

Architecturally fascinating features (right) surround the Great Lawn of the garden. This balloon-like structure is in the Four Seasons Garden. There are other distinctive areas: the Sensory Garden, a real Tyson Chicken Coop, a Japanese Garden, Vegetable and Herb Garden and a Peace Arbor, seen through beyond this metal structure.

Sept. 15 Chefs in the Garden An annual, late summer evening of cooking demonstrations, food samplings, wines that complement each dish and a complimentary bar help to raise funds for the BGO. The garden is a beautiful setting for

STORY AND PHOTOS BY REBA MIZE

great food, drinks, music, a photobooth and enjoyable company. This year’s honorary chair chef is Jerrmy Gawthrop, co-owner of the Greenhouse Grille, Wood Stone Craft Pizza and Cardamom and Curry restaurants.

Food also will be served by Bonefish Grill, Café Rue Orlean, Ella’s Restaurant, Four

Corners Kitchen, Fresco Café & Pub, GC Catering, Houlihan’s, Kennedy Coffee Roasting Co., Oven and Tap, Wasabi and Yarnell’s. Tickets are $50. Reserve online or phone. 6-8:30 p.m. Botanical Garden of the Ozarks, 4703 Crossover Road, Fayetteville, Ark. 479-750-2620 bgozarks.org September 2015

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150 YEARS AGO

In 1865, an early photographer captured native faces

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Sept. 8, 1865, is perhaps the most important date in Fort Smith history that you never knew about. On that date, at the direction of President Andrew Johnson, Dennis N. Cooley, commissioner of Indian Affairs as well as the president of the Southern Treaty Commission, opened a diplomatically delicate, 13-day Grand Council at the Second Fort Smith, a portion of which we know today as our national historic site.

The gathering was an attempt to restore relations with the tribes living west and southwest of Fort Smith. Relations had been broken by the Civil War, when factions of some tribes fought on the side of the Confederacy. Fort Smith was economically devastated post-war, but its native neighbors across the Arkansas River had been enduring unrivaled suffering and abuse since the war’s start. Tribes found themselves attacked from both sides. By 1865, most were homeless and starving, their houses burned, crops spoiled and their cattle and horses stolen.

The U.S. government, which had moved them west off their ancestral lands, had been providing the tribes with annuities, supplies and haphazard protection, but the outbreak of Civil War ended all that. The government had labeled many loyal Indian tribes as traitors.Though few feelings were smoothed by the Grand Council, it did lead to future treaties.

The Fort Smith New Era newspapers of August 1865 speculated that 25 to 30 tribes would be coming to Fort Smith. Delegates and tribesmen estimated as many as 15,000 Indians were headed here – enough that the city fathers ordered all liquor stores be closed for the duration.

When the Grand Council convened, it appears, neither the press nor the government felt comfortable releasing the total number who came to the city, which was already teeming with hundreds of refugees – black and white – who had flocked to the fort for food, shelter, clothes and medical help during the war.

An interesting outcome of the conference was some of the earliest photographs of Native Americans. Burrel Z. Gannaway, a photographer from Tennessee, made a series of portraits of many natives in full traditional dress, probably taken in a room on the grounds of the fort.

These photographs attracted the attention of an Englishman, William Henry Blackmore, who came to America for business purposes in 1863 and developed a fascination for Indians. Some of the tribes and nations recorded as attending are the Creeks, Osage, Quapaw, Seneca, Senecas & Shawnees of the Neosho agency, Cowskin Senecas, Cherokee, Seminoles, Shawnees, Wyandottes from Kansas, Chickasaws, Choctaws, Wichitas, Delaware, Sacs, Fox, Comanches and Caddoes.

Blackmore bought many, if not all, of Gannaway's photographs and took them back to England. Today, they are prized holdings of the British Museum. Many Gannaway glass negatives also are at the Smithsonian Institution. B.Z. Gannaway and Sons studio came to be an institution on Garrison Avenue for many years after the Grand Council of 1865. Once unknown and uncredited, Gannaway’s Native American portraits are fetching thousands at auction today.

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Studio portrait of The Distant Land (Ko-she-se-glo), an Osage man, seated wearing shell necklaces, a shell choker, shell ear ornaments, a cloth turban, leggings and a blanket around his waist; he is holding a tomahawk; Fort Smith, United States of America.

B.Z. Gannaway portraits taken in 1965 at the Grand Council.

Used by permission. ©Trustees of the British Museum.

Studio portrait of a Comanche woman, seated wearing a patterned dress and a blanket wrapped around her waist; Fort Smith, United States of America.

Albumen print.

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SEPTEMBER 12

1865-2015: Remembering the Great Indian Council of 1865 In 1865, 15 Indian Nations and Tribes and the Commissioner of Indian Affairs met to re-establish postCivil War relations between the tribes and the U.S. The Fort Smith Council of 1865 laid the foundation for new 1866 treaties that significantly altered conditions in Indian Territory and paved the way for Oklahoma statehood. The Fort Smith Historic Site will present special programs Sept. 12.

Symposium Five academic speakers will give lectures and panel discussions on Federal Indian Policy, Fort Smith Council and Treaties of 1866 that followed.

10:30 a.m. | Dr. William Corbett Why the Fort Smith Council 11:45 a.m. | Bethany Henry Rosenbaum, Ranger Law and Construction of African-American Identity and Citizenship among Cherokee Nation 1 p.m. Dr. Bob Blackburn The Civil War & Reconstruction in Indian Territory 2:15 p.m. Dr. Daniel F. Littlefield Treaties of 1866: Strategic Plans for Dismantling Tribes 3:30 p.m. | Dr. Mary Jane Ward When All Was Dark and Confusion: The Fort Smith Council and Reconciliation Among the Territory Nations All symposium talks are free. Fort Smith Museum of History, 320 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith.

Above: Osage men (from left) Young Black Dog wearing a fringed hide shirt and leggings; Twelve O'Clock wearing cloth shirt and blanket; Ogias Captain wearing a cloth shirt and a hat; Little White Hair Chief, an Osage chief wearing a cloth shirt and blanket; Ogias Captain wearing a cloth shirt and a hat; Little White Hair Chief, an Osage chief. ©Trustees of the British Museum

Cultural Exhibits and Demonstrations Learn more about some of the Nations and Tribes that attended. Scheduled to attend are representatives of the Cherokee Nation, Chickasaw Nation, United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians, Muscogee (Creek) Nation, Quapaw Tribe Special programs will include Cherokee story telling and bow making.

Free. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Frisco Railroad Station, Fort Smith National Historic Site, 301 Parker Avenue, Fort Smith.

Interpretive Programs Fort Gibson’s Omar Reed will present programs on the experiences of United States Colored Troop (USCT) soldiers and Freedmen at the 1865 Great Indian Council.

Free. Programs at 10:30, 11:30 a.m. and 1:30, 2:30 and 3:30 p.m. will be held in the first jail. Fort Smith National Historic Site, 301 Parker Avenue, Fort Smith.

B.Z. Gannaway, photographer of the 1865 Grand Council (white hair), with his sons.

Portrait courtesy of the Gannaway family.

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FASHION FOCUS

As colorful as its name:

The Polka-Dotted Zebra

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treasure of a children’s store is located just 10 miles from Fort Smith. This new boutique, whimsically named The Polka-Dotted Zebra, is full of children’s clothes and accessories and is found on Center Street in Greenwood. The Polka-Dotted Zebra has affordable and fun boutique clothing and accessories for newborns up to preschool-aged little ones.

Sheila Bailey opened the store in February.

Bailey thought a catchy name would be something people would remember. But it is also memorable for everything from the layout and beautiful displays of the store to its selection of cute, colorful clothing and gifts.

It was designed by Bailey with the help of her husband, Wayne, and her father, Darrell Whisenhunt. The men built the displays for

clothing and shoes while Sheila came up with the creative use of color to make each section of the store visibly appealing to shoppers.

“I’m not one to sit still, so after the children graduated, I needed something to keep myself busy,” said Bailey. “I’ve always been creative and love to give personalized gifts so I decided to use my creativity on a broader scale. I put a lot of thought into what Greenwood could use as far as retail stores and opening a children’s boutique was the perfect choice,” she added.

“Our concept is to have unique items for gifts or clothing that is practical and affordable.”

Shoppers will notice right away that all the lace and frill for the little ladies is on the right side of the store and all the rough and tumble, yet clean-cut and stylish, outfits for the boys are on the left.

Fun onesies for infants and a variety of hair accessories on display at The Polka-Dotted Zebra.

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FASHION FOCUS The walls are lined with clothing and shoes in little cubbies as well as hanging from racks.

Some popular items that can be found at The Polka-Dotted Zebra are Mud Pie, Peaches N’ Cream, Sage and Lilly, Livie and Luca shoes and Infanteenie Beenie newborn caps. Stuffed animals by Jelly Cat peek out everywhere.

The Polka-Dotted Zebra also carries the skin care line Noodle and Boo, aden + anais organic swaddle blankets and hooded towels and wash cloth sets and the very popular Wubba Nub pacifiers. There are plenty of hair bows and headbands to choose from, Sticky Bellie stickers and signs to help remember milestones in pictures, birthday signs, newborn frames and backpacks and lunch bags from Skip Hop.

Owner Sheila Bailey in the boys department.

A special offering at The Polka-Dotted Zebra is its personalized and monogrammed items. Bailey offers hand-painted hospital door hangers. She will monogram clothing, diaper bags and backpacks purchased in store.

Greenwood supporters will be happy to find little ones’ Bulldog items.

Bailey will take The Polka-Dotted Zebra on the road by attending Holiday Market and the Women’s Expo. The store will participate in Greenwood’s Holiday Open House along with other shops in Greenwood. She also plans to take the boutique online soon for shoppers everywhere.

The Polka-Dotted Zebra 910 West Center Street, Greenwood, Ark. 479-996-0096 Open 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Tuesday-Friday; 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday.

Dr. Udouj is experienced in the treatment of temporomandibular joint dysfunction for over 15 years.

(479) 648-9988

Treating TMD (TMJ) •Headaches •Jaw Pain •Limited Opening •Popping Joint Graduate of the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies.

Member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.

2600 Market Trace • Fort Smith, Arkansas

www.perfectingyoursmile.com

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health & beauty goodies

Christopher Designs 18K white gold L'amour engagement ring available at Newton's Jewelers.

The newest release in the Champagne Series from Caviar Eyeware found at Dr. Steven Stiles Optometry.

Witty V-neck T-shirts found at Seasons Fashion, Home, Garden & Gifts.

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health & beauty goodies

Aveda products for curly hair available at Metropolis Hair Studio.

Vulcano and Paradiso cologne by Brio Destinations found at The Gamut.

Beaded statement necklace and plus-size chambray pearl snap shirt and burgundy skinnies from Zoe Bug’s Boutique.

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health & beauty goodies

Kids frames by Vogue from Ennen Eye Center.

Piko Woo Pig Sooie T-shirt and blingy Razorback ballcap found at Red Leopard.

Mona B bags made from re-cycled and up-cycled materials. Available at The Warehouse.

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health & beauty goodies

An assortment of bracelets from Coleman Pharmacy.

Cranberry and black plaid shirt from Blu Pepper paired with mixed chain and disc jewelry from Unique Boutique.

New shades of CND nail shellac and skin care products by Dermalogica available at Sensations Salon and Day Spa.

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health & beauty goodies

Animal print vest and brown leather Ugg boots found at This ‘N That Thrift Shoppe.

Plumeria flower necklaces, bracelet and earrings with Na Hoku jewelry box available at Abilities Unlimited.

Frizz Fighting, Amplifying and Blonde Care sets

by Matrix from Vanity Calls.

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MUSIC & performance

Malcolm London

Kevin Coval

The Unexpected: Spoken Word Poets disrupt, stir hope with words SEPTEMBER Poets Malcolm London and Kevin Coval will appear in a free spoken word

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performance as part of the Unexpected Project’s art festival. London, a poet and activist, already has a connection to urban art. In 2013, he and Maser collaborated on a wall in Chicago, integrating London’s powerful words, “It’s Never Too Late To Love,” with Maser’s trademark inclusion of type in his murals.

Called the Gil-Scott Heron of this generation by Cornel West, London is also an internationally recognized activist and educator. A member of the Young Adult Council of the prestigious Steppenwolf Theater, London’s energetic performances boldly confront contemporary issues. He has appeared on PBS and has shared stages with actor Matt Damon and rapper Lupe Fiasco as a part of the The People Speak, Live! cast. He attends University of Illinois at Chicago and is a member and co-chair of BYP100 Chicago Chapter, a national organization of black activists and organizers. Deeply interested in improving the national education system, London regularly visits high schools, youth jails, colleges and communities to work with students in writing workshops and performances. He is currently a youth advocate and coordinator of The Know Your Rights Project of Northwestern Law School, dedicated to educating young people on their rights within the juvenile justice system.

Coval is the editor of The BreakBeat Poets: New American Poetry in the Age of Hip-Hop and is the author of Schtick, L-vis Lives!: Racemusic Poems, Everyday People, Slingshots: A Hip-Hop Poetica and the play, This is Modern Art, co-written with Idris Goodwin. Founder of Louder Than A Bomb: The Chicago Youth Poetry Festival and the Artistic Director of Young Chicago Authors, Coval teaches hip-hop aesthetics at the University of Illinois-Chicago, is a four-time HBO Def Poet and has written for a wide variety of publications.

The performance is free, underwritten by the many sponsors of 646 Downtown’s Unexpected Project art festival. 6 p.m. The Blue Lion, 101 North 2nd Street, Fort Smith. 646downtown.com 42

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Riders in the Sky Sept. 5 Riders in the Sky For more than 30 years, the Grammy Awardwinning Riders In The Sky have been keepers of the flame passed on by the Sons of the Pioneers, Gene Autry and Roy Rogers, revitalizing the genre with their musical comedy stylings.

Premium, reserved seating available. $15-12. 8 p.m. Ozark Folk Center, 1032 Park Avenue, Mountain View, Ark. 870-269-3851 ozarkfolkcenter.com Sept. 6 Legacy Concert featuring Bonafide Celebrate the region's musical heritage at Lake Fort Smith State Park, featuring old-time folk and mountain music from the group Bonafide. Fiddle, banjo and guitars carry the listener back to the early days of settlement in the Ozarks. Back lawn of the visitor center; take lawn chairs. Free. 78:30 p.m. Lake Fort Smith State Park, 15458 Shepherd Springs Road, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-2469 Lita Ford

Sept. 12 Lita Ford at Choctaw Casino A British born rocker who grew up on the streets of L.A., Lita Ford is considered one of the foremost female representatives of the rock genre as a founding member of the Runaways, one of the first girl groups who unexpectedly broke down barriers in the punk era as well as the male-dominated world of rock music.

Following the demise of the Runaways, Ford concentrated on her own career, which included the chart-topping duet with Ozzy Osbourne “Close Your Eyes Forever,” “What Do You Know About Love,” “Shot Of Poison,” “Larger Than Life” and “Kiss Me Deadly.” Ford released “Living Like a Runaway” in 2012. Tickets, $27.60, available online. 8 p.m. Choctaw Casino, 3400 Choctaw Road, Pocola, Okla. ticketmaster.com

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MUSIC & PERFORMANCE Sept. 15 Hozier at the Walmart AMP His lyrics both sound and read like poetry and are delivered with the spiritual passion and yearning of gospel and the blues.

Hozier is an Irish singersongwriter and multi-instrumentalist known for current hits, Hozier “Take Me To Church” and “From Eden,” the title track from his 2014 certified gold album. Tickets $35.50 and up. 7:30 p.m.

Walmart AMP, 5079 West Northgate Road, Rogers, Ark. waltonartscenter.com Sept. 17 Roy Clark & the Tulsa Playboys with Buck Trent, Jana Jae and Peggy Rains Music legends Roy Clark and the Tulsa Playboys join Buck Trent, Jana Jae and Peggy Rains for an incredible night of country music. Musician, actor and comedian Roy Clark has been in the spotlight for more than 60 years. He was host of the TV variety show “Hee Haw” and inducted into the Grand Ole Opry and the Country Music Hall of Fame for his musicianship. The Tulsa Playboys feature triple fiddles, horns, piano, steel and standard guitars and electric mandolin to bring the full Western swing sound. Buck Trent first appeared on the Grand Ole Opry in 1959. He invented the electric banjo and played lead guitar for Dolly Parton’s “I Will Always Love You” and “Jolene.” “The First Lady of Country Fiddle” Jana Jae and award-winning vocalist Peggy Rains complete the line up for a country extravaganza.

Tickets available by phone or online, $25-$45.

7:30 p.m. Alma Performing Arts Center, 103 East Main Street, Alma, Ark. 479-632-2129 almapac.org Sept. 17 AACLive: Laurence Juber Artist, Audience & Community Live! (formerly Second Street Live!) kicks off its 16th season with two-time Grammy Award winner, Laurence Juber. Fusing folk, jazz and pop, Juber creates a multi-faceted acoustic performance. First recognized as the lead guitarist in Paul McCartney's Wings, Juber has established himself as a world-renowned guitar virtuoso, composer and arranger. 6:30 p.m. doors open; 7:30 p.m. showtime. Tickets are available at the door and online. $40. 801 Media Center at 5 Star Productions, 801 North A Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-883-9488 AACLive.com Sept. 17-27 Curtain Up on Murder This play-within-a-play is set in a community theater, perched at the end of an oceanic pier.

The amateur actors must pause rehearsal while a storm rages, doors mysteriously lock, a ghost passes across the stage and an assistant stage manager turns up dead. The hilarious and spooky British mystery is directed by Rikkee Workman-Black. Evening curtain time, 7:30 p.m.

Matinee performances at 2 p.m. Doors open at 1:15 p.m. $10. 7:30 p.m. Fort Smith Little Theatre, 401 North 6th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-2966 fslt.org September 2015

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MUSIC & PERFORMANCE

Film doc following Northside band has a big premier for its preview trailer, now online With theatrical fanfare worthy of a fullfeature film premiere, makers of the upcoming documentary Leaving a Legacy celebrated the release of its preview trailer last month at the UAFS Blue Lion theater. With her film about how life changes, director Brenda Yelvington also hopes to change lives.

The first-time documentary filmmaker intimately followed students, their families and the music faculty from July 2013 through high school graduation in May 2014, amassing some 150 hours of footage that will be edited to a little more than an hour when completed.

Half-time marching shows, music solo and ensemble contests, gritty band rehearsal footage and the emotional struggles of students growing up and preparing for adulthood will be the dramatic narrative of the film.

Yelvington told the students, educators and parents who attended that it had been a privilege to be trusted to “invade” their lives. She and her executive producer (and husband) Lavon Morton also announced their gift of a Northside Legacy Fund, which they will endow personally and with proceeds of the film to establish two scholarships for Northside students who attend the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith. The first scholarships will be awarded in 2016.

Two film trailers were screened at the premier and the movie’s first poster was revealed. One of the video trailers, about 1:22 in length, can be seen online at stfilmstudio.com.

Yelvington’s company Story Teller Films, in association with Branchout Studios of Fort Smith, engaged award-winning composer Kevin Croxton to composed an original score. The completed documentary will have its theatrical premiere in 2016 at NHS.

the legendary entertainer in his “Ray Charles Show.”

Tickets $10, are available online, by phone at or by visiting the casino’s Branches Trading Co. Gift Shop.

Choctaw Casino, 3400 Choctaw Road off of I-540, Pocola, Okla. 800-590-LUCK ticketmaster.com

Sept. 22 Saxophone Fantastic Dr. Christopher Barrick, head of the UAFS Department of Music and Theatre, performs a concert of saxophone music, featuring music for soprano and alto saxophone from the 19th-21st centuries. Also, the world premiere of “Fantasia for Alto Saxophone,” composed by Charles Booker, retired UAFS faculty member. Free. 7:30 p.m. The Blue Lion, 101 North 2nd Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-7547

Stansberry & the Romance

Sept. 18 Matt Stansberry & the Romance The Blue Lion concert series is presented by the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith. Stansberry & the Romance is the first show of the year. The 10-piece group pays homage to ’50s and ’60s soul and blues.

Tickets are available at the UAFS Box Office. 7:30 p.m.

The Blue Lion, 102 North 2nd Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-7300 Sept. 18 Faulkner Performing Arts Center Grand Opening Join the University of Arkansas Music Department in its grand opening, for faculty artist performances and to be one of the first to see the new performing center. $5. 7:30 p.m. Faulkner Performing Arts Center, UA, Fayetteville, Ark. 479-575-4703 music.uark.edu Sept. 19 Ray Live! A Ray Charles Tribute Ray Live! featuring Pete Peterkin, a finalist on “America's Got Talent,” has proven to the world what a versatile entertainer and impressionist he is.

Peterkin portrayed “Ray” in the opening ceremonies of Super Bowl XXVII. He pays respectful homage to 44 Entertainment Fort Smith September 2015

Ray Live!

Sept. 19 Knock Out Music Jamboree Hosted by the Fort Smith Boxing Club, it’s an evening of family entertainment, food and fun.

Enjoy country, pop and gospel music by Rodney Smith, Alexander Salamone, Skye Morse and The Savage Family. The boxing club promotes good sportsmanship, builds confidence and gives kids a place to go. Tickets at Corley's Hairstylers at 5907 Jenny Lind Road, Fort Smith, or at the door. Adults $6, 12 and under $3. 6:30 p.m.

Evans Boys and Girls Club, 6015 Boys Club Lane, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-739-6833 Sept. 19 Bryan Adams 30th Anniversary Reckless Tour Bryan Adams’ 1984 album “Reckless” has stood the test of time. Hits released from the album include “Run to You” and “Summer of ’69.” Tickets $30 and up. Walmart AMP, 5079 West Northgate Road, Rogers, Ark. 479-443-5600 waltonartscenter.com

Sept. 26 Robin Mark Concert - Feast of Tabernacles Irish Christian singer/songwriter, worship leader and recording artist Robin Mark is best known for “Days of Elijah,” “Revival,” “All for Jesus and “Not by Might.” Sponsored by Heritage Church, Van Buren as part of its “Feast of Tabernacles.”

Locals Don Martin, Michael Brinson, Rick Endel and Rick Boyett will also perform with Mark. The audience is invited to donate for a ministry that supports families with hospital-bound children.

Admission is one household item, such as toiletries, cleaners or personal hygiene items.

Free. 7 p.m. Van Buren Fine Arts Center, 2001 East Pointer Trail, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6424 Oct. 8 The Four Tops, The Supremes, The Miracles and The Marvelettes Salute Singer Myles Savage celebrates some of the best songs from Motown groups of the ’60s, including hits like “My Girl,” “Stop in the Name of Love’ and “Dancing in the Streets.” Savage began as lead singer for the Platters and now leads the Last Original Stars tribute band. 7 p.m.

Alma Performing Arts Center, 103 East Main, Alma, Ark. 479-632-2129 almapac.org

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State Fair entertainment in four free concerts

Symphony opening concert regards the Greatest Generation World War II was among the most consequential eras of American and world history, determining the life or death of millions and shaping the liberty or tyranny its survivors would live under to this day. Americans and the Allies chose, and won, freedom and democracy at the war’s end, 70 years ago.

The Fort Smith Symphony addresses “The Greatest Generation” of men and women who gave their service through those years, both military and civilian, and reflects on that era through music of the period and a new composition about it, according to John Jeter, the symphony’s music director.

“The program includes the world premiere of ‘Resilience,’

by Michael Schelle,” Jeter said. “The piece is in three movements. The first is about the European Theater and is based on a little melody found in the concentration camps.

The second movement is about the Pacific Theater, with some slight hints of Asian musical scales. The last movement is a recognition that we are resilient and we got through it.”

Schelle, a frequent collaborator with the symphony, was writing this piece as Jeter was thinking about a World War II concert, while neither knew what the other was planning.

“We will open with the ‘Star Spangled Banner,’ but in John Williams’ arrangement for full orchestra,” he said.

“The second half will be Aaron Copland’s New World Symphony, completed in 1945. If you had to pick one symphony to call the greatest American symphony, it would be this.”

“Mike (Schelle) and I, and Mike’s wife who is a composer and pianist are going to visit Fort Smith Public Schools and UAFS giving performance presentations about why modern music sounds the way it does. The 20th century was overall kind of grim in terms of the many wars.

We’re going to demonstrate how composers were influenced.” Students are also invited to attend the symphony’s dress rehearsal, free, he added.

One more special element of the Oct. 10 program is a talk by author John McManus, a leading American scholar on D-Day and the war. Jeter asked McManus to give a pre-concert lecture and book-signing.

The UA Jazz Band will be performing some ’40s-era music in the lobby and there will be a few other surprises, Jeter disclosed. While the concert is patriotic, Jeter said this program is intended to be more artistically compelling than a “rah-rah” popular music salute.

He hopes the depth of the musical program and historical lecture will promote reflection and that the audience will perceive the optimism of the Copland piece as representative of the spirit in which Americans moved onward optimistically, post-war.

Single and season tickets are available for the 2015-16 year by phone or online. Writer John McManus’ pre-show lecture is from 6:30-7:15 p.m. The musical program begins at 7:30 p.m. ArcBest Performing Arts Center, Rogers Avenue and South 9th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-7575 fortsmithsymphony.org

OCTOBER

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Sept. 25 Pepe Tovar y Los Chacales | 9 p.m.

Sept. 26 Black Stone Cherry | 8 p.m.

Oct. 2 Tracy Lawrence | 8 p.m.

Oct. 3 Guardianes Del Amour | 9:30 p.m.

Sept. 25-Oct. 3 Arkansas-Oklahoma State Fair All entertainment is free with paid fair admission, which includes the Sept. 26 CW Youth Talent Competition and Oct. 1 Rumble on the River Demolition Derby. Local acts perform nightly in the Expo Building. Kay Rodgers Park, 4400 Midland Boulevard, Fort Smith, Ark. 800-364-1080 kayrodgerspark.com Oct. 17 Jackson Browne Because of songs such as “Running on Empty,” “The Pretender” and “Take It Easy,” this Rock and Roll Hall of Famer is considered to be the quintessential singer-songwriter of the 1970s.

“At last,” says Lynn Wasson of E Fort Smith, “my true love, Jackson, has returned to Arkansas to take me away. This is My Opening Farewell, my friends.” Tickets $31 and up. 7:30 p.m. Walmart AMP, 5079 West Northgate Road, Rogers, Ark. 479-443-5600 waltonartscenter.com

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KIDS TRAVEL

SCOTT FAMILY

Amazeum is fun and educational

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resh, fun and fabulous. Prepare for a vortex of fun and learning under a canopy of colors and swirls of handson activities at the recently opened children’s museum in Bentonville. Aptly named the Amazeum, visitors can put their hands and bodies all over educational galleries that are childhood dreams come to life.

The parking lot hints at the first signs of magic as we encountered flowers covered in perky butterflies and gazed at the tall building whose architectural design assured interesting things would be inside. I took along a group of my three children and some of our friends to tour the museum on the last weekend of the summer, before the routine of getting back to school.

The Scott Family Amazeum is designed to allow people of all ages to inquire, explore and soak up ideas. Admission is a swift and easy process and the kids’ excitement grew as wide as their eyes while we inched closer to the first exhibit hall. There are 44,500 square feet of exhibit space, meeting and learning spaces inside the museum.

The galleries are set up to engage visitors with the land, industries and people that built and sustain the Arkansas culture. Exhibitions include the Tinkering Studio, a water area, a climbable tree canopy, an exploratory wet lab and more. A full-size diesel truck cab was a big hit with the boys and girls alike. Along with the opportunity to drive the big rig, there was an array of crate-loading techniques with blocks, balls and pulleys galore that were 48

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Children control a giant SpongeBob puppet with pulleys and levers.

visually exciting and that demonstrated physics principles.

A wheelchair lift is located in the General Mills Lift, Load & Haul exhibit, allowing wheelchair users access to the platform.

“When designing the space, it was important to us and to General Mills that we make the area as accessible as possible,” explained Molly Rawn, director of development and communications at the Amazeum. During our visit, we were happy to see people not only of all ages but all abilities enjoying the space.

Justin Syrock, a parent who came along with us, was impressed with the number of

activities. “True to its word – the whole place is pretty Amazeum,” he said.

The indoor setup is self-guided and freerange, which allows everyone as much time as they crave at each station and the opportunity to revisit displays as often as they like. There is also approximately one acre of outdoor space for year-round learning with experiments and experiences inspired by the seasons.

Amber Gregory, my friend and fellow mom, was smiling as much as her children and said she loved the fact that every activity, while fun, was also educational.

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KIDS TRAVEL “I can see spending a whole day here with the kids and being happy the whole time,” she said.

“I am learning right along with them, there is stuff here you don’t see every day.”

Beyond the educational stations is the Zing Café where visitors can grab a snack, refuel and rest before returning to games and activities. The Curiosity Corner is a gift shop.

The Hershey Lab is a special exhibit with limited space and requires a ticket for admission given out to the visitors first-come, first-served each day until lab seats are at capacity.

As a parent, the opportunity for family time that both engaged and entertained us all was well worth the travel. My children showed their approval with a glow of happiness they had no idea they were exuding, much like the children around them. My youngest son, 2 years old, was full of squeals of delight with eyes shining and busy little hands. My oldest, 16 and 14, were lit up with the rare and shy smiles of teenagers erupting with bubbling laughter (but they still looked cool).

It’s no wonder Rawn was pleasantly surprised to report the museum has already seen nearly one third of their projected annual attendance in the first month of opening.

“My favorite thing about the facility is our guests, in particular the families, I see coming in with multiple zing stamps on their hands and arms, signifying repeat visits,” she said. “We all know the Amazeum is great for first-time visits, but it is special for us to see families come again and again and discover something new each time. My daughter has visited several times. On her most recent visit, she spent two hours just in the art studio. Having a family membership allows guests the freedom to let their children focus in on just one thing as you can always come back again another day.”

There are always new things to look forward to for guests who have already visited. Rawn said they are just getting started.

“Special event Tinkerfest 2.0 will be held on Oct. 10 and is a good day to bring out older kids as there will be activities geared for all ages. Also, our early learner program gears up in September.

These monthly workshops are for children ages 18 months to 5 years along with their caregiver.”

As we drove away, everyone was played out. A gentle hush enveloped the car as one by one, little heads nodded off in the back seat. Now that’s something every parent can appreciate – the sound of summer coming to an end.

London, 14, and Pandora Montemayor,16, found plenty to intrigue teens at the Amazeum.

Clockwise from top: Midnight Rosen seems to be astonished to discover an egg. The author’s three kids, below, gaze up at a camera and appear onscreen. Left, Pandora learns about circuits.

STORY AND PHOTOS BY CANDISE MONTEMAYOR

Scott Family Amazeum is open every day but Tuesday. Admission is $9.50. 1009 Museum Way Bentonville, Ark. 479-696-9280 amazeum.org September 2015

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KIDS

calendar of events

Sept. 1 Elks MVS Scholarship Contest Each year, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks offers 500 four-year Most Valuable Student Scholarships, ranging from $4,000 to $50,000 for a grand total of more than $2.4 million. The 2016 Most Valuable Student scholarship contest, open to any high school senior who is a U.S. citizen, will kick off Sept. 1. Applicants will be judged on scholarship, leadership and financial need. Men and women will compete separately. Go online for application, which must be delivered to the Fort Smith Elks Lodge by Dec. 4. There will be a Scholarship Clinic from 2-4:30 p.m. Sept. 27 from 2-4:30 p.m. Many tips and important information will be given. Preregistration is not required. Free. Fort Smith Elks Lodge No. 341, 5504 Massard Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-478-1060 elks.org/ENF/scholars/mvs.cfm Sept. 1-16 UAFS Academy of the Arts Fall Registration Classes and lessons in the performing and visual arts are offered to students from preschool to adult, including music, theater, dance and art. Programs include private lessons in music, dance, drama and art, a preschool MusikGarten program, art classes, musical theater performance companies for students in grades 1-12, Drums Alive! group, children's choirs and Show Choir Kidz, Teen A Cappella Ensemble and the Youth Symphony Orchestra program for students grades 4 and up. Call or go online to register. UAFS Echols Building, 504 North Waldron Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-7253 uafs.edu/academy

Sept. 1-29 Baby & Me Babies, birth to age 3, and caregivers can join the library for songs, finger plays, a story and play time, including our favorite “bubble time.” Free. 10:30 a.m. Mondays. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045

Museum of History hosting ice cream social The Fort Smith SEPTEMBER Museum of History's Annual Ice Cream Social is an end-ofsummer tradition. Enjoy all-you-can-eat ice cream in the museum’s recently remodeled old-fashioned soda fountain. Build your own sundae from a variety of ice cream flavors and toppings. The 1920s replica pharmacy with its working soda fountain is a favorite stop for visitors. Young and old alike love the ice cream floats, sodas and sundaes. All proceeds benefit the Fort Smith Museum of History. This event was voted the Best History Event for 2014 in Entertainment Fort Smith Magazine's Readers Favorites. $5.

2-4 p.m. Fort Smith Museum of History, 320 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-7841 fortsmithmuseum.org

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Sept. 1-29 Spanish Lessons The Van Buren Library will offer Spanish lessons for students in grades 4-6. Learn through play and stories and give a good foundation for learning a second language. Free.

3:30-4:15 p.m. Tuesdays. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 Sept. 1-29 Tuesday Teen Time The library will host an opportunity for teens to get creative.

3:30 p.m. Tuesdays. Free. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045

Sept. 1-30 National Library Card Sign-up Month A library card grants free access to books and computers, a place to create a resume and do a job search, check out or download music, movies, magazines and more. Free bookmarks will be given away at all Fort Smith Public Library locations. All children who sign up for their first library card will receive a free paperback book, provided by the Friends of the Library. Library cards are available free of charge to Fort Smith city residents ages 5 and older. A parent or legal guardian must apply in person for children ages 5-15. Take identification with current street address, such as a driver’s license, bank check, or a utility bill. All Fort Smith Public Library locations. 479-783-0229 Sept. 1-30 Golden Tickets at the Library!

September is the birth month of the author of “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” Roald Dahl. In celebration, all Fort

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Smith Public Library locations will be hiding golden tickets in randomly selected audiovisual materials.

Check out an audiovisual item to find out if you are a winner. Golden tickets can then be redeemed for a scrumptious treat at the library’s front desk. Free. All Fort Smith Public Library locations. 479-783-0229

Sept. 1-Dec. 15 Mornings with Mommy This is an educational play date designed for caregivers and their babies ages birth to 36 months; siblings up to age 5 are welcome. The group meets to interact with little ones along with other adults. Enjoy a story, interactive play stations and a snack. Preregister online. $5 per family per session. 10-11:15 a.m. every other Tuesday beginning Sept. 1. Covenant Presbyterian Church Fellowship Hall, 120 North 9th Street Fort Smith, Ark. 239-292-7339 cpcfs.org/mwm Sept. 2-30 Van Buren Children’s Story Time Story time this month will feature stories about big vs. little, camping, outer space and more. 9:30 or 11 a.m.

Wednesdays. Free. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 Sept. 2-30 Mulberry Preschool Story Time Preschool children will enjoy an hour of stories, games, crafts, music and snacks. Free. 10 a.m.

Wednesdays. Mulberry Public Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226 Sept. 2-30 Tween and Teen Game Time A different game will be featured each week. Free. 3:30 p.m. Wednesdays. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045

Sept. 2-30 Cedarville Story Time September is the time to get back to weekly story time. This month, kids will explore going to the library, apples, football, What does the fox say? and farms.

Free. 10 a.m. Wednesdays. Cedarville Public Library 737 Pirates Way, Cedarville, Ark. 479-410-1853 Sept. 2-30 Morning Toddler Time Join Ms. Megan for a story, craft and refreshments.

Topics this month will be camping, grandparents, the letter “P,” the ocean and mud. Free. 10 a.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140

Sept. 3 Story Time with A. Celeste Ms. Celeste’s favorite childhood librarian, Louise Turner, will be reading the author’s new book, “Sometimes I Feel Stormy: A Book About Feelings.” As a child, Celeste developed a love for writing while attending Howard Elementary School and spent countless hours reading in the Fort Smith Public Library, especially during the summer reading program.

Copies of “Sometimes I Feel Stormy: A Book About Feelings” will be available for sale and signing the event. Free. 10 a.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 Sept 3-24 Thursday “All Ages” Young or old, all are welcome to have fun on Thursday

afternoons, including a special time with Legos on Sept. 24 and other crafts and games each week. Free.

3:30 p.m. Thursdays. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 crawfordcountylib.org

Sept. 9 Notes to Nana and Papa: Grandparent’s Day Craft Drop by to make fun cards and “All About My Grandpa/Grandma” books to make and decorate as a sweet gift. Free. Noon-5 p.m. Mountainburg Public Library, 1300 U.S. 71 North, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-1600

Sept. 10 Western Arkansas Ballet Open House Enjoy a performance by the Western Arkansas Ballet Pre-Professional Company, learn about volunteering, enjoy refreshments and meet the faculty and staff.

Enter to win door prizes and bid on a silent auction item, a reserved parking spot during “Nutcracker” auditions and rehearsals. As the evening comes to a close, the spring ballet will be announced. 6-8 p.m.

Western Arkansas Ballet Studio, 4701 Grand Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-785-0152 waballet.org Sept. 10 Tile Mosaics Take your favorite pictures or use some of the scrapbook paper and stickers the library to decorate a fun tile coaster or tie-dye tiles. Use Sharpies and alcohol to make beautiful, one-of-a-kind tile coasters. Free.

3:30 p.m. Cedarville Public Library, 737 Pirates Way, Cedarville, Ark. 479-410-1853

Sept. 10 Wildlife Identification Steve Dunlap from the Arkansas Game and Fish will present a program on animal wildlife identification for all ages. Free. 4 p.m. Mulberry Public Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226 Sept. 10, 24 Afternoon Toddler Time Enjoy crafts, games and refreshments for grandparents and Jolly Rancher suckers and rainbow toast.

Free. 4 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140

Sept. 10, 24 Tween & Teen Time Topics this month are “Game of Thrones” Dragon Eggs (paint and design your own egg) and Greek mythology (choose your favorite Greek god or goddess and compete for a prize). Time includes a craft, fun and refreshments. Free. 4 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140

Sept. 11 Bingo for Books Meet new friends and win books by playing Bingo!

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

Sept. 11 Grandparents Craft Make your favorite grandparents a gift! Free. 4 p.m.Mulberry Public Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226

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Sept. 12 Elks Annual Youth Fishing Derby The Elks Annual Youth Fishing Derby is for children 2-12, including children who have special needs. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. under the white tent at Wells Lake at the River Valley Nature Center. The competition will begin promptly at 9 a.m. and ends with the sounding of the air horn at 11:30 a.m. Only fish caught by registered youth will be measured and entered into the competitions. Prizes will be awarded during the free picnic lunch from noon-12:30 p.m.

Youth will compete in three age categories: 4 years and younger, 5-8 years, and 9-12 years. Special needs participants will compete according to age and/or disability. A limited number of fishing poles will be available for loan on a first-come-first-serve basis. A limited amount of bait also will be available. It is best to take your own fishing equipment and bait. Bicycles and other prizes will be given away in random grand prize drawings, plus additional great prizes for the most fish caught, largest fish, smallest fish and other categories. Elroy the Elk will be on hand to give out goody bags to the youth and also for photo opportunities, so be sure to take your camera. The Elks Drug Awareness trailer will be on-site handing out free materials to the youth and adults about the importance of not using drugs, alcohol or tobacco. Take camp chairs, bug spray and sunscreen. There will be water available. Pre-registration is not required. For more information about the Elks Youth/Special Needs Fishing Derby, call 918-839-7581 or 918-839-7586. Free.

9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Wells Lake at the River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-478-1060 elks341.org

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Sept. 13 Roald Dahl Day Celebrate author Roald Dahl’s birthday by dropping by the main library for an afternoon of festivities. Fun activities and a showing of the movie “Matilda” (PG) will all be available in the Youth Services craft room.

Participants will have a chance to win a Roald Dahl book at this open-house style event. Free. 1-4 p.m.

Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229

Sept. 14 Primetime Story Time: Celebrate Libraries!

September is Library Card Sign-up Month. This primetime story program will feature stories, crafts, refreshments and other fun about books, libraries and the magic of having a library card. Free. 6 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org Sept. 14 Teen Time Afterschool activities for tweens and teens, including games, crafts and more. Refreshments provided.

Free. 3:45-4:45 p.m. Mountainburg Public Library, 1300 U.S. 71 North, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-1600

Sept. 14-28 Preschool Story Time Toddlers and pre-K children are invited for stories, crafts and fun. Refreshments provided. Free. 10:3011:30 a.m. Mondays. Mountainburg Public Library, 1300 U.S. 71 North, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-1600

Sept. 14, 28 Lap Time Story Time This special story time is geared toward children birth to 24 months old. There will be rhymes, songs, simple stories and interactive fun. The story time will last about 20 minutes, with time for casual interaction afterward. Free. 10:30 a.m. Miller Branch Library, 8701 South 28th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-646-3945 Sept. 14-28 Monday Teen Time Make new friends and learn a new skill. Free. 3:30 p.m. Mondays. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 Sept. 16 Story Time: Fall is Here!

Focus on the signs of autumn and fall activities. Read a story and make a take-home craft. Free. 10:30 a.m.

Dallas Branch Library, 8100 Dallas Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-484-5650 fortsmithlibrary.org

Sept. 17 Paragraph Power: Game Release with J.C. Wood J.C. Wood is the creator of the game Paragraph Power, a fun way to build writing skills. Start with one word and create an entire paragraph using your imagination and the elements of chance built into the game.

The outcome is never the same twice. Paragraph Power can encourage players to learn new words and use them in different ways. The game can be played as a group or as a single player and is suggested for ages 10 and up, with playtime being generally about an hour. Free. 4-6 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229

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Sept. 17 Spanish Story Time Join Mrs. Norma and enjoy the magic of stories through reading, singing and other fun activities in Spanish. Free. 6 p.m. Windsor Branch Library, 4701 Windsor Drive, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-785-0405

Sept. 18 Pirate Party and Story Time In celebration of Talk Like A Pirate Day, this special story time and pirate party will be filled with fun pirate stories and silly pirate songs, followed by a pirate craft and snacks. Free. 10 a.m. Miller Branch Library, 8701 South 28th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-646-3945 Sept. 19 Girl Scouts Go STEM Strong Interested in joining the Girl Scouts? Join Girl Scouts for badge workshops, hiking, crafts, mind-blowing science experiments and more. Admission is one pair of warm socks to be donated to area veterans. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Burnham Woods Property, 5705 Gordon Lane, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-629-2858

Sept. 20 Elks MVS Scholarship Clinic Explicit tips on completing the Elks MVS application will be the focus. Students, parents, pastors and anyone interested in the scholarship is welcome. Over $110,000 has been awarded to area students in the past few years. Applicants will be judged on scholarship, leadership, and financial need. A finished, hard copy of the application will be due to Jan Stone of the Fort Smith Elks Lodge by Dec. 4. Free. 2:30-4 p.m.

Fort Smith Elks Lodge No. 341, 5504 Massard Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-478-1060 elks341.org Sept. 21 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. 6 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 Sept. 24 Teen Time Bungee bracelets or key chains – there will be several colors from which to choose. Free. 3:30 p.m.

Cedarville Public Library, 737 Pirates Way, Cedarville, Ark. 479-410-1853

Sept. 24-30 Take A Child Outside Week A national initiative designed to challenge kids to discover the parts of nature that most people walk right by without seeing. Get your kids "unplugged" for a week and outside in the fresh air. Let them discover the endless possibilities nature has to offer. Visit Lake Fort Smith State Park for a variety of programs throughout the week. Free. 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Lake Fort Smith State Park, 15458 Shepherd Springs Road, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-2469 arkansasstateparks.com/lakefortsmith Sept. 26 Reptile Mania!

Join snake enthusiast Brad Birchfield as he presents reptiles from his extensive collection of native venomous and nonvenomous snakes. The program addresses facts and myths about snakes and details conservation efforts in Arkansas. Free. 1-2:30 p.m.

Lake Fort Smith State Park, 15458 Shepherd Springs Road, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-2469 arkansasstateparks.com/lakefortsmith Sept. 26 Fab Five National Hunting and Fishing Day Event Compete in the eighth annual National Hunting and Fishing Day events. All ages are invited to join, or play just for fun. Free. Noon-4 p.m. River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-3993 rivervalleynaturecenter.com

Sept. 26 30th Annual Nutcracker Auditions Candidates should be at least 6 years of age with at least two years’ experience in dance and/or gymnastics. There are also parts available for adults and boys with little or no dance experience. Those auditioning should arrive in dance attire. Performances take place Dec. 12 and 13 at the ArcBest Corp. Performing Arts Center in Fort Smith. Call for more information about audition times. $10 audition fee. Western Arkansas Ballet Studio, 4701 Grand Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-785-0152 waballet.org

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Sept. 28 Lego Club Kids, tweens and teens are invited to design, create and build unique creations. Legos provided. Free. 5 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org

Sept. 28-Oct. 2 Banned Book Week Celebrate your freedom to read during Banned Book Week. On Monday, enjoy popcorn and a movie at 5:30 p.m.; from 4:30-6 p.m. Tuesday, make a book safe; stop by on Wednesday to pick up a button while supplies last; get ready for “Jeopardy!” Banned Book Week-style on Thursday; and, on Friday, there will be a prize drawing for who can guess the banned book in the jar. Free. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045

Sept. 29 Miller Branch Library Fall Festival for Kids Kids from birth through age 8 will celebrate the season with games, prizes, face painting and crafts with an autumn theme. Free. 5-6:30 p.m. Miller Branch Library, 8701 South 28th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479646-3945 fortsmithlibrary.org Oct. 3 Mountain Biking for Kids Enjoy a family bike ride at the Boston Mountain Trail, which is 4.1 miles long and is rated easy to moderate.

Scott's Bicycle Shop will be on hand for safety checks.

Free. 9 a.m.-noon. Lake Fort Smith State Park, 15458 Shepherd Springs Road, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-2469 arkansasstateparks.com

Sept. 28 Bingo Children, tweens and teens – stop by after school for a game of bingo and refreshments. Free. 3:30 p.m.

Mulberry Public Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226

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Sept. 1 Fort Smith Razorback Club Football Kickoff Meeting Sportswriter and columnist Clay Henry will be the speaker for a local Razorback Club dinner with a cash bar, silent auction and chance to win two tickets to all 2015 home games in Little Rock and Fayetteville. Call for reservations. $20, includes the meal. 6 p.m. Fort Smith Convention Center, Rogers Avenue and South 9th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-459-2565 Sept. 1 Steel Horse Rally Check Presentation The Fort Smith Museum of History will receive a check for $1,500 from the inaugural Steel Horse Motorcycle Rally held in May. The museum is one of four charities chosen to benefit from the rally, which attracted 8,000-10,000 motorcyclists to Fort Smith. Free. 10 a.m. Fort Smith Museum of History, 320 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-7841

The Rev. Louis McGill, Elizabeth McGill and a young George on his grandmother’s lap.

Clayton House Family History Series: The McGill Family The son and grandson of Fort Smith ministers, state Rep. George McGill has vivid memories of strong family love, outstanding Fort Smith citizens and the local civil rights movement. From his father’s well-planned and peaceful integration of the Creekmore Park swimming pool, to all his friends’ favorite spot when he was a youngster – his grandmother’s lap – McGill easily produces the gamut of emotions from laughter to awe with his memories and photos.

Refreshments, music and seating begin at 1 p.m. followed by Rep. McGill’s program at 1:30 p.m. Reservations are required, as seating is limited. Entry is free to Fort Smith Heritage Foundation members, whose tax-deductible membership donation goes toward the continued preservation and programs of the Clayton House. A $10 donation is requested of non-members. 1:30 p.m. The Clayton House, 514 North 6th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-3000 Lincoln High, McGill’s alma mater. claytonhouse.org

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George (standing), his mother, sister Johnnie Frances and brother Rickey.

Rep. George McGill’s father and grandfather were both ministers and oversaw baptisms for generations in Fort Smith.

Sept. 1-2 Feel Heroic, Give Blood Donors will receive a free hero-themed T-shirt and health screening. To make an appointment, contact the Student Activities Office, register online or registering in person in front of the Lions Bookstore in the Campus Center. Walk-ins are welcome and all blood types are needed. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. UAFS Smith-Pendergraft Campus Center, Reynolds Room, 800 North 49th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-7697 arkbi.org

Sept. 1-12 Smile Scramble Tournament Entry Period This four-person scramble will be held Sept. 19 and includes cart, range balls, one raffle ticket and meal.

The first 20 teams will be accepted and entries close Sept. 12. Prizes will be award for the first two places in two flights, two closest-to-pin and two longest drives. There will be a raffle for a $600 gift card to Dick's Sporting Goods. Players are required to wear appropriate golf attire. Benefits Smiles for a Lifetime Foundation, which provides free orthodontic treatment for 24 children each year. Registration begins at 6:30 a.m. $360 for four-person team. Hole sponsorships are available for $100. 8 a.m. Eagle Crest Golf Club, 3926 Golf Course Drive, Alma, Ark. Sept. 1-30 National Library Card Sign-up Month A library card grants free access to books and computers, a place to create a resume and do a job search, check out or download music, movies, magazines and more. Free bookmarks will be given away at all Fort Smith Public Library locations. All children who sign up for their first library card will receive a free paperback book, provided by the Friends of the Library. Library cards are available free to Fort Smith residents 5 and older. A parent or legal guardian must apply in person for children ages 5-15. Take identification with current street address, such as a driver’s license, bank check or a utility bill. Free. All Fort Smith Public Library locations. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org September 2015 Entertainment Fort Smith 55

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Sept. 1-30 Hunger Action Month The Sack Lunch Program will sponsor Hunger Action Awareness events all month. Mary Wise Day honors the founder of the organization. Sack Lunch Sunday fundraising events will take place at many area churches. Skinner Building, St. John's Episcopal Church Office Building, 214 North 6th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-782-9912 Sept. 1-30 Library Card Sign-Up Month Get a library card in September and your name will be entered for a gift basket. The drawing will take place Sept. 30. Free. 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday-Friday; 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays. Mountainburg Public Library, 1300 U.S. 71 North, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-1600 Sept. 1-30 Library Card Sign-Up Month Get a library card in September and your name will be entered for a prize. Already have a card? Just stop by the front desk and show your card and you will be entered. as well. Free. 8:30 a.m.–7 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday, 1-4 p.m.

Sunday. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045

Sept. 1-Oct. 31 Doris Hampton Art Exhibit Fort Smith native Doris Hampton will showcase her original paintings. Free. Miller Branch Library, 8701 South 28th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org Sept. 2-30 Van Buren Farmers Market Locally sourced produce, eggs, jams, jellies, honey and handmade crafts. 7 a.m.- noon Wednesdays and Saturdays. Van Buren Public Library Parking Lot, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-218-2316 Facebook.com/pages/Van-Buren-Farmers-Market Off With Their Heads!

Still Life and Landscapes of Daniel Mark Cassity Arkansas artist Daniel Mark Cassity is a still-life specialist known for his provoking paintings and artwork, referred to collectively as “The Kingdom.” Cassity’s work has been on display both nationally and internationally. He was most recently selected as a finalist in The Artist’s Magazine’s 32nd Annual Art Competition in the still life category. A reception will be held from 5-6 p.m. on Sept. 11 in the hallway outside the Reynolds Room. The exhibit is located on the west end of the first floor of the Smith-Pendergraft Campus Center. Free. 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

Monday-Thursdays; 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Fridays. UAFS Smith-Pendergraft Campus Center, 800 North 49th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-7300

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Sept. 3 Enneagram Fellowship Of Fort Smith Meeting This group meets twice monthly to view educational videos, discuss books and texts that are beneficial in studying the Enneagram. Meetings are held on the first and third Thursday of each month. Free. 5:156:45 p.m. Central Presbyterian Church, 2901 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-650-2555 Sept. 3 Printology Gallery Reception & Opening Internationally known mural artists of The Unexpected Festival and prints of the works of Banksy, Sheperd Fairey and other outsider and graffiti artists are on exhibit for the celebration of the completion of the Windgate Art & Design Building at UA-Fort Smith.

Sponsored by the UAFS Foundation and JustKids, the organization led by Unexpected Festival curator Charlotte Dutoit, the event is also an open house of the new campus building, which includes gallery space, classrooms for all disciplines, the graphics art program lab and mock agency presentation room and art studios.

A $15.5 million donation by the Windgate Foundation, based in Siloam Springs, Ark., has made possible this new resource for the university and the community.

Free. 6-9 p.m. UAFS Windgate Art & Design Building, Kinkead Avenue and Waldron Road, Fort Smith, Ark.

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Sept. 1-Oct. 31 Lovely: A Photo Exhibit by Tessa Freeman Photographer/writer Tessa Freeman will exhibit her most recent images. Free. Dewey's Cafe, Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org Sept. 3 Author Visit & Book Signing: A. Celeste Author A. Celeste will be reading her book “Sometimes I Feel Stormy: A Book About Feelings,” as well as sharing her experiences as an author. The book is a colorful, easy-to-read and beautifully illustrated story about feelings. As a child, the author developed a love for writing while attending Howard Elementary School and spent countless hours reading in the Fort Smith Public Library. She has a bachelor’s in psychology, a master’s in organizational psychology and development and decades of experience in mental health and public health. Her life centers around helping, encouraging, inspiring and serving others. She lives in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Copies of the book will be available for purchase, and light refreshments will follow the event. Free. 6 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229

Sept. 4-5 Midwest Steak Cook-Off Championship This two-day cook-off and festival is sanctioned by the Steak Cookoff Association and sponsored by the city, Chamber of Commerce, Butterfield Church and Old Town Merchants Association. Competitors will grill steaks in the main event. A big steak dinner is the centerpiece of the event on Saturday afternoon. There will be arts & crafts and food vendors, a kids area and musical entertainment. Adults cook-off competitors will receive two competition steaks to cook and will turn in the best one for judging. Kids may enter a pork chop cook-off. The contestants will keep cooking to provide steaks for a 5 p.m. public dinner. All proceeds go to a humanitarian aid charity called Children’s Gift Ministry. Cash prizes from $200-$1,000 will be awarded and the winner will be entered in the 2015 SCA World Steak Championship in Fort Worth. Kids receive cash prizes from $25-$50. Steak contest entry is $25 per team. Historic Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-441.

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Sept. 4-13 Unexpected Project Mural Festival Art in Progress At various locations in downtown Fort Smith, watch a group of invited artists create murals and other large works of art on blank walls of downtown buildings from the riverfront to 10th Street. The artists will complete their creations by Sept. 12. The invited artists include muralists, artists who sculpt into exposed brick and plaster, some who apply materials, others who stencil or spray paint graffiti style. Return to see these images take shape during the festival week. During breaks, the artists may be free to talk with students and spectators. A festival office will be open from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. at 521 Garrison (the former Sacred Grounds coffeehouse). See map for mural locations.

Downtown Fort Smith, Ark. Sept. 4, 18 Crochet and Knitting Join the crochet and knitting club. All experience levels are welcome. You must provide your own 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

Sept. 5 Huntington Fall Festival Free booths are available for vendors, small businesses, school groups and churches. There will be live musical entertainment, a cakewalk, pie auction and more fun events for families. No yard sale items, please. Call to reserve booth space. Free. 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Downtown Huntington, East Broadway, Huntington, Ark. 479-928-5083

Sept. 5 Lake Tenkiller Fireworks Extravaganza Because of high water levels and limited camping/parking, this year's Fourth of July fireworks show was moved to Labor Day weekend. Take the family out to enjoy the show over beautiful Lake Tenkiller. Watch from a boat or dry land as the bold colors of the fireworks reflect on the lake. The Fireworks Extravaganza will begin at dusk, and can be viewed best from the water, Tenkiller State Park or the Corp of Engineers campgrounds. Lake Tenkiller, Vian, Okla. 918-457-4403

Sept. 5 Kayak Adventure Kayaking is a great way to experience the sights of Lake Fort Smith and a fun way to exercise. Reservations are required and will be taken at the marina in person or by calling. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. This event is weather dependent. $12 adults; $6.50 children ages 6-12. 9-11 a.m.

Lake Fort Smith State Park, 15458 Shepherd Springs Road, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-2469 arkansasstateparks.com/lakefortsmith

Sept. 5 Twilight Lake Tour Enjoy the cool evening breeze aboard a tour boat as the sun starts to set at Lake Fort Smith State Park.

Reservations are recommended and can be made by calling. This is a weather-dependent event and is subject to cancellation. $9 adults; $5 ages 6-12; free for children younger than 6. 7:30-8:30 p.m. Lake Fort Smith State Park, 15458 Shepherd Springs Road, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-2469 arkansasstateparks.com/lakefortsmith 58

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Sept. 4-Oct. 31 Paintings by Larry Crane Attorney/artist Larry Crane re-kindled his passion for painting in 2012; he paints in a small studio in downtown Little Rock, when he is not paddling or rowing on some stream or river. Free. Fort Smith Public Library Community Room, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org

Sept. 5-6 Honeybee & Pollinator Festival at the Learning Fields The River Valley Master Gardeners present a two-day festival to educate the public about the importance of honeybees and other living creatures that spread pollen from plant to plant, enabling much of the earth’s food plants and flowers to grow. Educational presentations will be given both days along with family fun at a Great Pumpkin Weigh-In, games and prizes for kids, Children’s Garden activities, a Master Gardeners Fall Plant Sale, garden exhibits, an hourly honey raffle, gifts, free food and snacks. Free. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Sept.

5; noon-5 p.m. Sept. 6. The Learning Fields at Chaffee Crossing, 7300 Gardeners Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark.

Sept. 5-7 64th Annual Clothsline Fair Explore more than 100 craft booths with vendors demonstrating and selling their wares. Living history, musical entertainment, and square dancing are all important parts of this celebration. Refreshments available through the Prairie Grove Lions Club and other local non-profit vendors. Free, parking $5 on park grounds. Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park, 506 East Douglas Street, Prairie Grove, Ark. 479-846-2990

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Sept. 5, 19 Nami Connections Meeting People living with mental illness learn from each other's experiences, share coping strategies and offer each other encouragement and understanding. Free. 1-2:30 p.m. Fort Smith Miller Branch Library, 8701 South 28th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 800-844-0381 Sept. 6 Ice Cream Social The Fort Smith Museum of History's Annual Ice Cream Social is an end-of-summer tradition.

Enjoy all-you-can-eat ice cream in the museum’s old-fashioned soda fountain. Build your own sundae from a variety of ice cream flavors and toppings. All proceeds benefit the Fort Smith Museum of History. This event was voted the Best History Event for 2014 in Entertainment Fort Smith Magazine's Readers Favorites. $5. 2-4 p.m. Fort Smith Museum of History, 320 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-7841 fortsmithmuseum.org

Santa Barbara Harbor

Sept. 7-28 Learn to Dance Learn a new dance every month. Attend the first Monday of the month to advance with other students. These lessons cover an array of interests and styles of dance to include ballroom, Latin, country western, swing and many others. Wear comfortable, casual clothing and shoes without sticky soles. $5. 6:30-7:30 p.m. advance lessons; 7:30-9 p.m. beginners. Eagles Ballroom, 3317 South 66th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-674-2578

Sept. 8 Book Talk: “Goodbye, Magnolia” by Krista Noorman You might say wedding photography is Maggie’s passion. Her drive to work hard to become the best at what she does is imperative. She captures couples’ wedded bliss week after week but she hasn’t been so lucky to find love herself. Maggie works hard to bury the rejection of her past relationships and it was working until her course is compromised with another photography business setting up shop in her small town. Now, she is traveling all over Michigan to keep her business afloat, but along the way, she learns more about loyalty and love than she ever imagined. 6 p.m. Free. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140

Van Buren Gallery: Ramona & Jim Mitchell

Angus: Paintings, Works on Paper Exhibit highlights landscapes, portraits and still life paintings by American artist Patrick Angus DECEMBER (1953-1992). An artist from early childhood, Angus produced hundreds of works throughout the course of his short-lived career. Living on the fringes of mainstream society, Angus was deemed by playwright Robert Patrick as "The Toulouse-Lautrec of Times Square," due to the fact he illustrated the gritty and less glamorous aspects of New York. This body of more than 50 works focuses on another dimension of this exceptional artist and explores Angus' evolution from a novice to a seasoned artist. This is the first museum exhibit of Angus' work and will showcase more than 50 never-before-seen pieces from a private collection. The last exhibit during his lifetime was in 1992, at the University of Santa Barbara where Angus met acclaimed artist David Hockney, who purchased six works for his personal collection. An opening reception will be 5-7 p.m. Sept. 11. Free for RAM members, $5 for non-members. 11 a.m.-6 p.m Tuesday-Saturday; 1-5 p.m. Sundays. Fort Smith Regional Art Museum, 1601 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-784-2787 fsram.org

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Sept. 8 Tai Chi Tai chi is an ancient Chinese tradition that, today, is practiced as a graceful form of exercise. It involves a series of movements performed in a slow, focused manner and accompanied by deep breathing. Open to all ages. 5:30 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 Sept. 10 Western Arkansas Ballet Open House Enjoy a performance by the Western Arkansas Ballet Pre-Professional Company, learn about volunteering, enjoy refreshments and meet the faculty and staff. Enter to win door prizes and bid on a silent auction item, a reserved parking spot during “Nutcracker” auditions and rehearsals. As the evening comes to a close, the spring ballet will be announced. 6-8 p.m. Western Arkansas Ballet Studio, 4701 Grand Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-785-0152 waballet.org Sept. 10 Craft Party Adults and seniors will be making a marble vase using paint and lacquer. If you have any glassware that needs sprucing up, this is the craft for you. Free. 2 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140

Sept. 10-12 South Franklin County Fair Prizes, games, live music, home economic and livestock judging, mutton bustin', bingo, games for kids, horseshoe contest, talent show, prince and princess contest and the famous fair burgers.

Free. Charleston Fairgrounds, 311 Freedom Road, Charleston, Ark. 479-965-2269

Sept. 11 Evening with Snakes of Arkansas Many people are fearful of snakes, mostly due to lack of knowledge. Through a live snake show, local reptile enthusiasts Jeremy Sloan and Brad Birchfield will help the audience learn how to identify Arkansas’ most common snakes, venomous vs. nonvenomous and how to avoid them.

Free. 7 p.m. River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-3993 Sept. 11 Rockin-Sockin-Swingin ’50s and ’60s Dance Enjoy a variety of dance styles to music provided by a DJ in this smoke-free, low-light environment. Dress attire is dressy-casual. $5. 8-10 p.m. Eagles Ballroom, 3317 South 66th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-629-4736

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Tom Pryor to host Clayton House Knox Street Book Club SEPTEMBER

Fort Smith resident Tom Pryor will share and discuss his “magnum opus” written over a 15year period that examines how humans find ways to understand themselves and the universe at this three-session book club. It will meet Sept. 10 and 24 and Oct. 8.

Pryor began The Mask: A Primer on Reality in the early 1970s after he had studied psychology at college, earned a law degree, a master’s degree in history and while he began studying philosophy, physics, Tom Pryor and his wife, Lorna. sociology, general semantics and more.

“Writing the book was the most wonderful experience,” Pryor said. “The side effect of studying these subjects was that I developed a great interest in reading the world masterpieces. Tolstoy, Dostoevsky, Conrad – I fell in love with them.” He loved discovering deeper meanings in classics such as “Alice in Wonderland” and “Moby Dick.” Pryor’s theory – the theme of his book – is that humans form an abstract mask – a conceptual picture of the world – and apply it to their experiences. “We take the world as a given,” he said. “The world is, in fact, a chaos, a flowing experience, like a river. It’s not static. We impose certain forms on it to help us understand and deal with it in some learned way.” The book’s chapters, which begin with excerpts from famous authors and philosophers and also illustrations, cover Chaos, Form, the Organism, Intellect, Phenomena, Space and Time, Creation, The Cosmos, Relativity, The Word, Being, Myth, Reality, Truth, Religion, Society, God, Self, Death, Determinism, Freedom, Meaning, Salvation and the Kingdom. Refreshments begin at 5:15 p.m., with an hour session beginning at 5:30. Attendees should register as soon as possible in order to have the first third of the book e-mailed or mailed to them. The club is free for members of the Fort Smith Heritage Foundation or a $25 fee. 5:15-6:30 p.m. The Clayton House, 514 North 6th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-3000 claytonhouse.org

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Sept. 11-12 46th Annual Ham Fest This is hog heaven for amateur radio enthusiasts. Do you need an antenna or parts for your radio? How about becoming a ham radio operator? The tests to become an operator will be available during this event.

Whether you are a novice or an expert you can find what you’re looking for. Contact the park for a detailed schedule. Free. Queen Wilhelmina State Park, 3877 Arkansas 88 West, Mena, Ark. 479-394-2863 queenwilhelmina@arkansas.com

Sept. 11-13 Konsplosion!

This all-encompassing, multi-genre convention combines comics, sci-fi, anime, gaming, pop culture and more. Special guest appearance by Johnny Yong Bosch, who got his start fighting giant bugs as Adam Park, the Black Ranger, Green Zeo and Green Turbo Ranger on “Mighty Morphin Power Rangers.” It is a role that he would play for three and a half seasons on television, two motion pictures and two special guest appearances in future Power Rangers seasons.

Johnny next became very involved in the world of voice over. Other guests are Aim for Space (opening band), authors E.M. Ervin and Ben Reed, Himawarigumi Cosplay, Bound by Fire and Samurai Dan & Jillian.The CW Dance Party is at 9 p.m. Sept. 12.

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There will be cosplay, video and tabletop gaming, a Nerf arena, fire spinning, charity auction benefiting various animal-based charities, as well as vendors located in the Artist Alley. Prices vary. Fort Smith Convention Center, Rogers Avenue and South 9th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. konsplosion.com

Sept. 11, 25 Redwork and Embroidery Club All experience levels welcome. Take your own supplies. 1-3 p.m. Free. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045

Sept. 12 Tailgate for a Cause: Blindside Domestic Violence Hosted by the Donald W. Reynolds Crisis Intervention Center, this event will include live entertainment by the band Boom Kinetic, as well as an artist from The Original Butt Sketch. A backyard buffet features classic tailgate foods and tailgate games, like Baggo and Tailgate Toss. Beverages are included in the ticket price. $50. 6:30-10:30 p.m. Golden Living, 1000 Fianna Way, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-782-1821 Sept. 12 19th Annual United Way Golf Tournament Hosted by Weldon, Williams and Lick, all proceeds from this event go directly to the United Way Chapter

for the surrounding area. This is a four-person scramble tournament, with the first-place team from each flight winning a $200 cash prize. There also will be door prizes, a putting competition and the chance to win various hole-in-one prizes, the largest of which is $10,000. The tournament will begin with a shotgun start at 8 a.m. and will end when the last team is finished. Participants are asked to arrive no later than 7:30 a.m. in order to ensure the tournament begins on time. $75, includes lunch. 7:30 a.m. Eagle Crest Golf Course, 3926 Golf Course Drive, Alma, Ark. 479632-8857 Sept. 12 National Recovery Month Celebration in the Park Harbor House Inc. celebrates National Recovery Month with this second annual Race for Recovery, a 5K, timed race and one-mile fun run. Post-race activities include music, children's activities, concessions, a photo booth and more. Entry fee $25 for 5K; $15 for Fun Run. 8-10 a.m. Chaffee Crossing Historic District, 7313 Terry Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-434-6774

Sept. 12 Star Gazing Explore the night sky above Lake Fort Smith with the Arkansas/Oklahoma Astronomical Society Star Gazing program. Head to the marina boat ramp at sundown where AOAS members will provide a number of telescopes. Take your own scopes and binoculars, as well as chairs and blankets. This is a weather dependent event. Free. 8-11 p.m. Lake Fort Smith State Park, 15458 Shepherd Springs Road, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-2469 arkansasstateparks.com/lakefortsmith Sept. 12 Bear Hunting Basics and More Join AGFC bear biologist Myron Means to learn everything from basic to advanced strategies for harvesting an Arkansas black bear. Tips and suggestions on what to do before, during and after the hunt will also be included. Advance registration is required. Call to register. Free. 1-3 p.m. River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-3993

Sept. 12 Phyllis Wheatley Women’s Club Tablescapes The 16th annual Tablescapes Buffet Luncheon will present beautifully designed table settings and a salad buffet luncheon with a fashion show, door prizes, a silent auction and other entertainment. A viewing of the tablescapes begins at 11 a.m. Lunch is served at 11:30 a.m. Special guest tables will be created by Vanessa Preston of Texas. Admission is by $20 donation. Call for reservations. 11 a.m. St. Boniface Fellowship Center, North 18th and C Streets, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-782-4629, 479-222-2472 Sept. 12 High Noon Matinee Step back to the 19th century Old West, a period of transition that involved a mix of lawless men, colorful women and good, honest folk. This mixture of comedy and melodrama is meant to entertain as well as educate. Free. Noon-12:30 p.m. Historic Main Street, 4th and Main, Van Buren, Ark. 479-806-1545 lawbreakersandpeacemakersinc.com

Sept. 12 Remembering the Great Indian Council of 1865 Representatives from many Indian Nations and Tribes and the U.S. Commissioner of Indian Affairs met at

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Fort Smith in September of 1865 to reestablish formal post-Civil War relations between the groups and the U.S. Government. The Fort Smith Council provided the foundation for new 1866 treaties that significantly altered conditions in Indian Territory and paved the way for Oklahoma statehood. Three special programs will take place. Visit the website for specific program times and locations. Free. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Fort Smith National Historic Site, 301 Parker Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-3961 nps.gov/fosm Sept. 12 Unexpected Art in the Park Artists both local and from around the state will exhibit and sell their works as the Unexpected Project comes to a close and large works are being completed by visiting mural artists who are painting downtown walls.

Student winners of the Splash the Deck (original art on blank skateboard decks) contest will be announced. Free. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Pendergraft Park, 200 Garrison Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. Sept. 12 13th Annual Rods & Ribs Car Show Barbecue ribs by Rivertowne BBQ, cash awards, door prizes, 50/50 drawing, music, games and great food for all ages. Free. Courthouse Square/Downtown, 300 West Commercial Street, Ozark, Ark. 479-667-2949

Sept. 13 Hell on the Border Arkansas State Criterium Championships This Arkansas State Criterium Championship will be a cycling race for age divisions 9 to 70-plus. Bicycles will race on an L-shaped course described by Garrison Avenue, North 6th Street, North A Street and North 10th Street. The start/finish line will be near Neumeier’s Rib Room at the corner of North 5th Street and Garrison Avenue. Vehicle traffic will be diverted from the race course for a little more than an hour.

Much of the exciting focus will be the skill used to make corners at speed over the .81-mile track. The race begins at 8 a.m. Spectators free. Downtown Fort Smith, Ark. Facebook/HellOnTheBorderCriterium

Sept. 13 TrailBlazers Hiking Club General Meeting Local turtle expert and Arkansas native Champ Williams will present a hands-on, comprehensive program about the diversity of Arkansas' numerous turtle species. Williams, an Emmy Award-winning wildlife filmmaker and biologist, will have several examples of turtles for the audience to see up-close. Anyone interested in learning more about the turtles, the hiking club and/or becoming a member is welcome. Refreshments will be served. Free. 2-4 p.m. River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-646-9562 thcfs.com

Sept. 13 Grandparents Day at Central Mall Enjoy a family photo print and other fun, free activities at Central Mall. Free. 12:30-4:30 p.m. Central Mall, 5111 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-1866

Sept. 13-23 Jewish High Holy Days United Hebrew Congregation offers High Holy Days services for Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur Kol Nidre (eve) and concluding services. Call for specific times.

United Hebrew Congregation, 126 North 47th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-1468 September 2015

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Sept. 14 Senior Movie Watch a movie set in the 1950s about a free-thinking art professor who teaches women to question their traditional social roles. (PG13) 1:30 p.m. Free. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045

Sept. 14 Book Talk: Come, Tell Me How You Live Did you know, later in life, Agatha Christie married Max Mallowan, an archaeologist? She spent many happy years investigating ancient Middle Eastern archaeological sites with him prior to World War II. This book is filled with charming descriptions, humorous observations and a genuine appreciation of the people and places Christie saw as she traveled. This is a warm and hopeful look at locations we often see suffering in the news. Enjoy Agatha Christie’s wonderful writing and enjoy a happy glimpse of far-off Mesopotamia. A limited number of copies are available at the front desk. 7 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045

Sept. 12 Lee Creek Cleanup Every year, volunteers collect hundreds of pounds of trash that has been washed down the creek. This event is vital to the health of the creek and the animals that live in it. There will be a free lunch as well as door prizes. Meet at the Horse Day Use Parking Area for sign-in. You will receive the supplies you need to help clean up the creek. Be prepared to get wet and dirty. Work gloves are recommended. 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Devil’s Den State Park, 11333 West Arkansas 74, West Fork, Ark. 479-761-3325 Byrd's Mulberry River Cleanup Last year, volunteers picked up more than 1,000 pounds of litter, spanning more than 25 miles of trails.

Volunteers this year will be rewarded with a cookout, live music and door prizes. Lunch will be catered by Steve Outlaw. Bands include Jamie Lou, Russell Corbin, Richard Burnett and The Outlaw Hippies, Woody & Sunshine, The Hard Cider Boys, Opal Agafia & The Sweet Nothings, Tyrannosaurus Chicken and a few more. Registration and drop off will be at Byrd's Adventure Center. Register online. Free. 7 a.m.-11:55 p.m.

Byrd's Adventure Center, 7037 Cass Oark Road, Ozark, Ark. 479-667-4066 keeparkansasbeautiful.com Sept. 19 Cherokee Prairie Natural Area Cleanup Arkansas Natural Heritage Commission staff will work with volunteers to reduce roadside litter bordering the Natural Area. Snacks and supplies will be provided, but volunteers should bring their own lunch and refillable water bottle. Register online. Free. 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Cherokee Prairie Natural Area, Arkansas 60 and U.S. 217, Charleston, Ark. 501-683-4084 naturalheritage.com/Get-Involved/volunteer-sign-up-form Lake Lou Emma Park Great Arkansas Cleanup and Boat Race The Boy Scouts of America will host this National Lands Day observance, including a Great Arkansas Cleanup event. The litter cleanup will be held in the morning followed by lunch. Scout competitions plus a Boy Scout Regatta and boat races will be held in the afternoon. Call for more information. Free. 8:30 a.m.5:30 p.m. Lake Lou Emma Park, Fayetteville and Rena Roads, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-5162 Sept. 26 Lake Fort Smith Great Arkansas Cleanup Participants will receive a T-shirt while supplies last. Free. 9 a.m.-noon. Lake Fort Smith State Park, 15458 Shepherd Springs Road, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-2469 Sept. 26-Oct. 17 Crawford County Fall Cleanup Crawford County Judge John Hall is hosting a fall Great Arkansas Cleanup campaign throughout the county. Dumpsters will be placed in 10 communities around the county. Saturdays only: Sept. 26; Oct. 3; Oct. 10; and Oct. 17. Take pride in your community by cleaning out and taking your bulky waste to the dumpster sites for disposal. For more information, contact coordinator Elaine Stanfield at 479-474-1511.

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Sept. 14 Explorers Bible Study This year, the weekly men’s interdenominational Bible study is on the Gospel of Mark. Free. 7-8:30 p.m. East Side Baptist Church, 2710 Massard Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-310-0202 Sept. 14-19 Crawford County Fair There is something for everyone that goes to the fair.

There will be a full carnival on the midway, food booths, pageants, a 4-H livestock auction, commercial exhibits, tractor displays, horticulture exhibits, arts, community booths, bluegrass & gospel music and don’t forget about those famous Lions Club burgers at the Shack. Adults $3; children 5-12 $1; weekly pass $6. Kirksey Park, Arkansas 215, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1558

Sept. 14, 21 Navigating the Medicare Maze Attend this informative session with experts from Area Agency on Aging of Western Arkansas regarding Medicare. The program will feature free, unbiased information and assistance for Medicare recipients and their caregivers. There will be a wealth of information shared that may help empower you with your health care decisions; bring your questions and a friend, too.

Free. 1-3 p.m. Sept. 14 Miller Branch Library, 8701 South 28th Street, Fort Smith, 479-646-3945; noon2 p.m. Sept. 21, Windsor Branch Library, 4701 Windsor Drive, Fort Smith, 479-785-0405 fortsmithlibrary.org

Sept. 14-28 Square Dance Lesson Besides getting an energy boost for the week, square dancing helps you get fit, have fun, enjoy great music and make new friends. All skill levels welcome. Free.

6:30-8 p.m. Fellowship Hall at East Side Baptist Church, 2710 Massard Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-639-0019 Sept. 15 Ozark Style Mind Stretchers Join St. John's Episcopal Church of Fort Smith in learning about significant events in the history of the region. The first speaker in this six-speaker series is

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Justin Nolan from the Department of Anthropology, University of Arkansas. Nolan will discuss the origins and conservation of Native and European-American plant use traditions in Ozark folk medicine and food culture. He also studies the survivorship of Oklahoma Cherokee plant traditions and their role in perpetuating Cherokee language and expressive culture in the Westernmost Ozarks. Free. 6 p.m. Ruth Skinner Building across from St. John's Episcopal Church, 214 North 6th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-782-9912 stjohnfs.org

Sept. 15 Beekeeping Adults and seniors, Beekeeper Danny will be at the Alma Public Library to teach us how to take care of bees, and how to get sweet honey from them. 9:30 a.m. Free. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark.479-632-4140

Sept. 15 Wild Edibles of Arkansas Learn which plants are edible and where to find them in Arkansas. Charles Griffith has been teaching about wild edibles since the early 1980s, including plant walks at Yellowstone National Park. Free. 6 p.m. River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-3993 Sept. 15 Chefs in the Garden Chefs in the Garden is an evening of cooking demonstrations, food samplings, wines that complement each dish and a complimentary bar to complete the evening. The beautiful setting, great food, drinks, music, photo booth and enjoyable company make this event one to mark on your calendar now. The honorary chair is Chef Jerrmy Gawthrop of Greenhouse Grille, Cardamom & Curry and Woodstone. Participating chefs are from Bonefish Grill, Café Rue Orleans, Cardamom & Curry, Ella's Restaurant, Four Corners Kitchen, Fresco Café & Pub, GC Catering, Greenhouse Grille, Houlihan's, Kennedy Coffee Roasting Co., Oven and Tap, Wasabi and Yarnell's. $50. 6-8:30 p.m.

Botanical Garden of the Ozarks, 4703 North Crossover, Fayetteville, Ark. 479-422-5419

Sept. 16 Nutrition and Prostate Cancer This nutrition and cancer series will be presented by Kelley Frost, MS, RD, LD with Sparks Nutrition Center and assisted by Executive Chef Brian Huff of Sparks Health System. Call to register. Free. 11:30 a.m. Donald W. Reynolds Cancer Support House, 3324 South M Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-782-6302 reynoldscancersupporthouse.org

Sept. 16-Dec. 9 The Learning Fields Fall Winemaking Class Winemakers will make a very dry apple wine (hard cider) or a sweet apple wine using honey to sweeten the wine. You can customize your wine to fit your taste. All equipment and supplies will be furnished.

Each winemaker will take home five bottles of wine.

The class size is limited; early registration is suggested. Along with the registration fee, send your name, address, telephone number and email address to Isaac Witt, 14216 Country Ridge Way, Fort Smith, AR 72916. Make checks payable to The Learning Fields. $35. 5:30 p.m. Sept. 16, Sept. 23, Oct. 28, Dec. 2 and Dec. 9. The Learning Fields, 7300 Gardeners Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-646-5314

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Sept. 17 Open Mic Night at Dewey’s Café Visit this fun, casual open mic night at Dewey’s Café.

Musicians, poets and other talented folks are invited to perform. Sign-up at the door; 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. Acoustic music only. Free. 7 p.m. Dewey's Cafe at the Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org

Sept. 17 Mary Beth Trubitt Lecture Indian communities in the Ouachita Mountains will be the topic this month. Mary Beth Trubitt, an archeologist for the Arkansas Archeological Survey and a research professor in the Department of Anthropology at the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville, will present new information discovered about the communities. Trubitt will discuss recovered pottery, stone tools, architectural evidence and food remains used to interpret patterns or habits of daily life in Indian communities from the archaic period to the Mississippian period. Free. 7 p.m. Math-Science Building, Room 204, 720 North 48th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-7812

It’s time for the Arkansas-Oklahoma State Fair!

The fair is packed with thrilling rides, delicious food and tons of events. Competitions include livestock, creative arts, youth talent and the Arkansas-Oklahoma State Fair Pageant. Entertainment OCTOBER includes concerts, bull riding, demolition derby and midway acts.

Advance ride ticket packs are $30 for 60 tickets, a 50 percent savings. Advance unlimited ride armbands are $20 and will be good Sept. 25, 27 and 28 and Oct. 3. Discount ride tickets are available online, at the Kay Rodgers Park Ticket Office Sept. 21-24 and, beginning Sept. 23, at Central Mall through 4 p.m. Sept. 25. Gate admission: $7 adults, $4 children 3-11 and free for those 2 and younger. Kay Rodgers Park, 4400 Midland Blvd., Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-6176 arkansasoklahomafair.com

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Sept. 17-20 Hot Springs International Horror Film Festival Hot Springs' rich history makes it a popular tourist destination for most of the year, but this month it will be host to insidious indie films, blood-spattered scream queens and movie monsters. The Hot Springs International Film Festival brings together filmmakers, fans and horror fanatics for a fright-filled four days of film and festivities. The festival is dedicated to helping promote aspiring and talented filmmakers. The festival offers film screenings, educational panels, networking opportunities, workshops, celebrity guests and more.

The festival is presented by The Hot Springs Arts and Film Institute, whose mission is to inspire, educate and promote talented filmmakers and artists. Tickets start at $25. 7 p.m. Historic Hot Springs Central Theatre, 1008 Central Avenue, Hot Springs, Ark. 501-859-9418 hotspringshorrorfilmfestival.com Sept. 17-Feb. 11 Modern Square Dance Lessons Exercise the mind and body with square dancing with instructor Dan Burris. $2.50. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Hug Chevrolet Showroom, 415 Main Street, Charleston, Ark. 479-462-2317

Sept. 18 Food for Thought: Fall Gardening Gardening can be a year-round adventure. UA County Extension Agent Lance Kirkpatrick will talk about growing greens and English peas in your fall garden and getting your garden ready for next spring. 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

Sept. 18 Free Prostate Cancer Screenings Men between 45 and 70 are encouraged to take advantage of the free, preventative health care services, which will include a discussion on risk and benefits of screening, a blood test for prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and a physical exam. Men with a family history of prostate cancer and men that are African-American 66

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS are in high-risk populations for prostate cancer. The event is a collaboration between the Donald W. Reynolds Cancer Support House, Baptist Health in Little Rock and APCF. Call to register. Free. 8 a.m.-noon.

Donald W. Reynolds Cancer Support House, 3324 South M Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-782-6302 ReynoldsCancerSupportHouse.org

Sept. 19 Donor Day in the West End In an effort to raise awareness of organ donation, the Arkansas Regional Organ Recovery Agency presents this celebration of music, food and life. This event is designed to thank those who have registered as organ and tissue donors, honor those whose loved ones have been donors, remember those who lost their lives while waiting for an organ and celebrate with recipients of the gift of life. There will be free food and drinks and musical entertainment by Mr. Cabbagehead and the Screaming Radishes. There will be a large number of ARORA staff on hand to help those who wish to register. It is a quick and easy process.

More than 123,000 Americans are waiting for an organ donation and about one-third of those will die while waiting due to the shortage of donated organs.

The rides in the park will be operating, the diner will be open and the Farmers Market will be in full swing across the street. Sebastian County has one of the lowest percentages of registered donors in Arkansas.

Free. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. The Park at West End, 15 North 2nd Street, Fort Smith, Ark. donatelifearkansas.org 866-660-5433

Sept. 19 Wheel A Mena Bicycle Tour to the Top This bicycle tour of the Ouachita Mountains and the Talimena Scenic Drive offers a breathtaking, scenic ride. You may choose the distance of your ride among the 30-, 50- or 70-mile route. Snacks provided at rest stops throughout the race and hamburgers will be served at the finish. Call or go online by Sept. 17 to register. $50. 8 a.m. Janssen Park, Mena, Ark. 479243-2378 wheelamena.org

Sept. 19 Migration Celebration Valleys around Mount Magazine are natural corridors used for millennia by transient wildlife. Southward migration peaks in September. Birds, butterflies, even spiders have been seen passing over the mountain.

Experience this natural phenomenon during field trips, guest speakers, crafts and a live bird demonstration.

Free. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mount Magazine State Park, Cameron Bluff Overlook Drive, Paris, Ark. 479-9638502 mountmagazinestatepark.com

Sept. 19 POW/MIA Remembrance Day and Ride A remembrance ride will begin at 1 p.m. from the Vietnam Veterans Museum at Chaffee Crossing to the Fort Smith National Cemetery and back. At 3 p.m. the annual Remembrance Day POW/MIA ceremony will be held. At 5 p.m. refreshments will be served. Everyone is invited to attend and may bring lawn chairs for seating. The Vietnam Veterans Museum contains Vietnam War memorabilia such as helmets, uniforms, guns, documents, love letters and other war-related items.

It is also home to the Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 467. Free. 1 p.m. Vietnam Veteran Museum, 7313 Terry Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-434-6774

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Sept. 19 Hunter Education Course This course teaches fundamentals of safe and responsible hunting, and is open to all ages. Anyone born after 1968 must complete a hunter education course and carry a valid hunter education card to legally hunt in Arkansas. Free. 7 a.m.-6 p.m. River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-3993 rivervalleynaturecenter.com

Sept. 19 Mutual UFO Network (Mufon) Quarterly Program This month's meeting includes a DVD presentation featuring Bob Lazar at the 2015 International UFO Conference. Lazar first appeared in the public eye in the 1980s with controversial claims of his work reverse engineering ET craft and technology at Site S4 near Area 51. Free. 10:30 a.m.-noon. Fort Smith Central Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 armufonwcs.wix.com/armufonwcs

Sept. 19 National Federation of Music Clubs Young Artist Christie Conover The Fort Smith Musical Coterie will present a concert

by NFMC Young Artist winner Christie Conover, soprano, accompanied by Dr. Naoki Hakutani. Conover will be in Arkansas as part of the NFMC tour, hosted by music clubs across the state. She graduated from San Jose State University, with a bachelor of music degree and from the University of Colorado Boulder with a master’s of music. This talented young singer also was Montana's Miss America contestant in 2007.

Free. 7-8:30 p.m. Oak Cliff Baptist Church, 3701 Gary Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-646-3891

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Sept. 20 Belle Grove Historic District Walking Tour Stroll through the Belle Grove Historic District and hear the colorful history of the homes and their first owners. This volunteer-led tour offers two walking routes. The architecture and stories of mid-19th century Fort Smith residents are one-of-a-kind. $5. 2:30 p.m. Clayton House, 514 North 6th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-3000 claytonhouse.org Sept. 20 Guest Artist: Peter Collins, piano Dr. Peter Collins is the professor of music and the coordinator of the keyboard division at Missouri State University in Springfield. $2. 3 p.m. Stella Boyle Smith Concert Hall, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, Ark. 479-575-4703 music.uark.edu

Sept. 21 Van Buren Chamber Golf Classic The Van Buren Chamber of Commerce will host its eighth annual Chamber Golf Classic, presented by Arkansas Valley Electric Co-operative. This year's event will include a great day on the green, along with delicious food, networking opportunities and the chance to win valuable prizes. Registration and checkin will begin at 11:30 a.m. Lunch, sponsored by Cox Business, will follow at noon. Play will begin with a shotgun start at 1 p.m. This year's tournament will feature many chances to win, with prizes awarded to the teams placing first and second. A putting contest, longest drive competition and closest to the pin contest on Par 3 holes also will be held. Several hole-inone challenges will be offered this year with thousands of dollars in prizes up for grabs. Call to register, or for

more information. $400 per four-player team 11:30 a.m. Eagle Crest Golf Course, 3926 Golf Course Drive, Alma, Ark. 479-474-2761 vanburenchamber.org

Sept. 21 Job Search Tips and Resume Class Take your resume and learn what to say on your resume as well as how to search for jobs and dress for an interview. Free. 7 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 Sept. 22 Ovarian Cancer Screening and Treatment September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. Dr. Timothy O'Brien with Stage 1 Diagnostics in Little Rock, will discuss cancer screening and treatments.

Sponsored by the River Valley Ovarian Cancer Alliance. Seating is limited. Call to register. Free. Noon.

Donald W. Reynolds Cancer Support House, 3324 South M Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-782-6302 reynoldscancersupporthouse.org

Sept. 22 Make and Take Wreath Making Workshop: Fundraiser for the Fort Smith Public Library Learn to make your own mesh wreath in this workshop by instructor and wreath-maker extraordinaire Jennifer Kelly. No experience or crafting expertise required. Pick your own theme and bring three rolls of 21-inch-wide mesh ribbon, a pair of big cheap scissors and whatever ribbon, doodads and accents you would like to add to your wreath. Light refreshments will be provided. Call or visit the main library to register. Pre-registration with payment is due by Sept. 17.

No refunds; cancellations and no-shows will be con-

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS sidered a donation to the library. No on-site registration will be available. Space is limited. $25. 4-8 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org Sept. 22 Authors in the Afternoon with Melissa Lutz Rogers author Melissa Lutz will sign copies of her new book, “The Girl with Lightning in Her Eyes.”

The book tells the story about a girl who was kidnapped and murdered but comes back as a ghost to help solve her crime. Developmentally disabled from birth, Melissa wants others to know that people should not be held back by whatever kinds of problems they may have in their lives, and how people with special needs can do amazing things with the help and support of their family. Copies of the book will be available for sale and signing at this open-house style event; a limited number of CDs featuring the song “Lightning in Her Eyes” written

by Curt Ryle, will also be available. Free. 4-6 p.m.

Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229

Sept. 22 Voter Registration Day Drop by during normal business hours to register to vote. Must be 18 or older.

7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. Mountainburg Public Library, 1300 U.S. 71, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-1600 and Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 Sept. 22 “Curtain Up on Murder” Dark Night Fundraiser Enjoy a performance of “Curtain Up on Murder” while supporting the Literacy Council of Western Arkansas in a special dark night. A silent auction of John Bell Jr. prints will be held at intermission. The play is a hilarious and spooky mystery.

Tickets are available at the Literacy Council Office, 300 South 11th, Fort Smith,

Ark. or by calling 783-2665. $10. Doors open at 6:45 p.m. Curtain time 7:30 p.m.

Fort Smith Little Theater, 401 North 6th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-2966

Sept. 22 Fall Career Fair This career fair will provide access to education and career options for students and the surrounding communities. The Crawford County Adult Education Center hosts local employers, community resources and schools during the fair to help individuals make the transition into training and/or employment. Resume and online job application assistance will also be provided. Refreshments will be provided.

There will be drawings for door prizes. Vendor space is currently available at no charge. Free. 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Crawford County Adult Education Center, 605 Alma Boulevard Circle, Van Buren, Ark. 479-471-0019 Sept. 23 Welcome Neighbor Get Acquainted Social New to the area? Recently retired? All women who wish to create new friendships, find out more about the community and have fun are welcome. Join in activities such as book club brunches, day trips and an annual charity auction. Many Welcome Neighbor members are active in social/service organizations and a wide range of interests. Mingle and enjoy some refreshments. Free. 9:30-11 a.m. Fort Smith Public Library Community Room, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-782-5846 Sept. 24 Job Fair Looking for the perfect job? Attend this annual career fair and take your resume to give to local businesses. There also will be prize drawings. Free. 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Free. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045

Sept. 24 Welcome Neighbor Book Club “Go Set a Watchman” by Harper Lee will be reviewed. Any woman is welcome to attend and enjoy the discussion. Free. 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Dewey's Cafe, Main Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-459-1603

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Sept. 24-27 Southern Fried Swing Southern Fried Swing is a swing dance convention that hosts classes and dances and includes live music.

This year's event will kick off in Fayetteville with a dance on Thursday night, then move to Fort Smith on Friday night with two classes and a dance. Saturday and Sunday classes will be hosted at Mercy Fitness Center. Dances will also be held at The Barn by Two Brothers in Fort Smith and Momentum Dance Concepts in Van Buren. Cost varies. Details can be found online. Multiple locations. 479-285-9090 southernfriedswing.com

Sept. 24 Library2Go: Demo and Q&A Learn about the changes and improvements to Library2Go, the library’s downloadable media service.

Library staff will demonstrate how to use Library2Go, and answer questions and offer hands on help after the presentation. Be sure to charge your mobile devices before the workshop. Free. 3-5 p.m. Dallas Branch Library, 8100 Dallas Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-484-5650 Sept. 24 Genealogy Databases Genealogy Databases, a free workshop spotlighting

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the library’s electronic resources, will be led by genealogy specialist Diana Curry. An overview of the genealogy databases currently available, Ancestry.com Library Edition, Newspaper Archive, Heritage Quest and African American Heritage, will be presented.

Space is limited; call to register. Free. 4 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229, ext. 1181. fortsmithlibrary.org Sept. 24-30 Take A Child Outside Week A national initiative designed to challenge kids to discover the parts of nature that most people walk right by without seeing. Get your kids "unplugged" for a week and outside in the fresh air. Let them discover the endless possibilities nature has to offer. Visit Lake Fort Smith State Park for a variety of programs throughout the week. Free. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Lake Fort Smith State Park, 15458 Shepherd Springs Road, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-2469 arkansasstateparks.com/lakefortsmith

Sept. 25 Hiring and Managing Employees Workshop The Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center presents Most Costly Mistakes of Small Businesses in Hiring and Managing Employees helps business owners avoid potential issues when hiring and managing employees. Tammy Barthel, M.A., of SPMI discusses hiring do’s and don’ts, proper employee documentation and other topics to help avoid mistakes that can cost businesses money and employees. Sponsored by Arvest Business Resource Center. Call or go online to register. Free. 10

a.m.-12:30 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-356-2067 asbtdc.org/training/russellville-events/

Sept. 25 Diamond Dance The Diamond Dance has many years of tradition in the River Valley Area. Music is provided by a local DJ in an ambient, smoke-free, adult atmosphere. The dress attire is dressy casual to semi-formal. $10. 810 p.m. Eagles Ballroom, 3317 South 66th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-629-4736 Sept. 25-27 Seven Sacred Pauses: Living Mindfully Through the Hours Macrina Wiederkehr, OSB, teams with singer-composer Velma Frye to present a feast of poetry, song, story, prayer, ritual, soul listening, faith sharing along with periods of silence, all grounded in your deep yearning for union with God, based on Sister Macrina's book and Frye's companion CD. $210 with a $50 deposit. St. Scholastica Retreat Center, 1205 South Albert Pike, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-1135 stscho.org/retreat-registration

Sept. 26 Reptile Mania!

Join snake enthusiast Brad Birchfield as he presents reptiles from his extensive collection of native venomous and nonvenomous snakes. The program addresses facts and myths about snakes and details conservation efforts in Arkansas. Free. 1-2:30 p.m.

Lake Fort Smith State Park, 15458 Shepherd Springs Road, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-2469

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Sept. 26 4th Annual Fort Smith Volunteer Fair This event will include more than 20 local historic and natural sites as well as volunteer organizations throughout the Fort Smith area. Interested volunteers will have a chance to see all the local sites where they could volunteer. These volunteer positions include anything from staffing front desks, to grounds maintenance, to giving tours. Organizations include: Fort Smith National Historic Site, Fort Smith Museum of History, Miss Laura's Visitor Center, U.S. Marshals Museum, Janet Huckabee Nature Center, Fort Smith Trolley Museum, Clayton House, Fort Smith Regional Art Museum, Chaffee Crossing, Drennen-Scott House, Fort Smith Parks and Recreation, Chaffee Crossing, RSVP, Lake Fort Smith State Park, Spiro Mounds Archaeological Center, Heavener Runestone Park, Devil’s Den State Park, Sequoyah’s Cabin, Army Corps of Engineers, Girl Scouts, Mount Magazine State Park, Ronald McDonald House and the Crisis Intervention Center. Light food and refreshments will be served.

Free. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. River Park Events Buildings, 121 Riverfront Drive, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-226-3721 Sept. 26 12th Annual Bluegrass in the Park Bluegrass bands Flat Broke and Lonesome, Crooked and Steep and Walter Shook and the Roving Gamblers will be featured. The event is sponsored by the Ozark A&P Commission. Free. 6-10 p.m. Eastside City Park, U.S. 64 East, Ozark, Ark. 479-667-3049

Sept. 26 Fab Five National Hunting and Fishing Day Event Compete in the eighth annual National Hunting and Fishing Day events. All ages are invited to join, or play just for fun. Free. Noon-4 p.m. River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479452-3993 rivervalleynaturecenter.com

Sept. 26 Museum Day Live!

The Fort Smith Museum of History will participate in the Smithsonian Museum Day Live! An online ticket is available from Smithsonian Magazine for free admission for two people, in the spirit of Smithsonian Museums, which offer free admission. Visit the Smithsonian Museum website and create an account to receive a ticket. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Fort Smith Museum of History, 320 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479783-7841 smithsonianmag.com/museumday

Sept. 26 Herbal Adventures: Butters, Blends and Brews Join the River Valley Master Gardeners and learn to make herbal butters, blends and brews. Refreshments and snacks provided. Reservations required. $20.

9:30 a.m.-noon. The Clayton House, 514 North 6th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-649-0293

Sept. 26 Mystery on Main This downtown Van Buren experience will feature a "whodunit-style" progressive tour of some of the community's focal points, including the Frisco Depot, King Opera House, Drennen-Scott House and the original Citizens Bank. Participants will make their way through the various stops, enjoying hors d'oeuvres and encountering period actors in costume, clues and ample twists and turns. The tour ends by solving a 1930s-era mystery. $30. 6 p.m. Main Attraction, 701 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-650-4314

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Lace up for Paint the Park Pink 9 The Ozark Affiliate of the Susan G. Komen Foundation will hold its 9th annual walk in support of a cure for breast cancer, open to survivors, supporters and everyone who wants to help fund the research that will find a cure. The event includes an 8:15 a.m.

Survivor Breakfast and the 10 a.m. Family Fun Walk. Wear pink! Many walkers participate as a team or as a family of a survivor or patient, or in remembrance of a loved one.

Team sign-ups and individual registration is available through the local affiliate office or online. The walk will be held at the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith, 5210 Grand Avenue. Komen Ozark River Valley Office, 1508 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-430-4365 komenozark.com

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Sept. 26 High Noon Matinee Step back to the 19th century Old West, a period of transition that involved a mix of lawless men, colorful women, and good honest folk. This mixture of comedy and melodrama is meant to entertain as well as educate. Free. Noon-12:30 p.m. Historic Main Street, 7th and Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-806-1545 Sept. 27 Labyrinth Walk Enjoy the gardens while walking the beautiful path lined with rosemary and many other flowers. Light refreshments will be served. Free. 6-8 p.m. Learning Fields, Chaffee Crossing, Gardeners Lane, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-471-9240

Sept. 27 Friends of the Fort Smith Public Library Chocolate Festival The Dallas Branch Library will be transformed into a Willy Wonka Chocolate Factory – or nearly so. Local clubs, businesses and individuals will offer their favorite chocolate samplings to the chocoholics of Fort Smith. All proceeds from the Chocolate Festival will be used by the Friends of the Library for special materials and programs at the library. Helping never tasted so good! $7, includes six tastes of chocolate and a to-go-box. 2:30-4:30 p.m. Dallas Branch Library, 8100 Dallas Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-484-5650 fortsmithlibrary.org Sept. 29 QuickBooks for Beginners and Day-to-Day Basics Hands-on Workshops The Arkansas Small Business and Technology Devel-

opment Center presents two hands-on workshop sessions for QuickBooks desktop software users. The first session is QuickBooks for Beginners and includes setup, reconciling accounts, working with lists, customers, vendors, assets and liabilities. The second session, QuickBooks Day-to-Day Basics, includes invoicing, receiving payments, bills, handling sales tax and more. A computer is provided during each interactive session. Register online or by calling. $65 per session, lunch included if attending both workshops.

9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and 1:30-4:30 p.m. Beall Barclay & Co., 3101 South 70th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-356-2067 asbtdc.org/training/russellville-events/ Oct. 1-3 Four by Tenn An evening of four classic one-acts by an iconic American playwright and author Tennessee Williams. Directed by Joe Graham and Mike Papacoda. $5. 7:30 p.m. Oct. 1-2, doors open at 6:45 p.m. Sunday matinee at 2 p.m., doors open at 1:15 p.m. Fort Smith Little Theatre, 401 North 6th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-2966 fslt.org

Oct. 2 Beginning Yoga at the Fort Smith Public Library Yoga offers a lot of benefits. The library offers the perfect opportunity at this special program featuring beginning yoga with Terri Hargrove from Yoga-terri-um.

Yoga can help improve flexibility, balance, strength, and focus. Mats will be provided or use a chair – perfect for seniors or anyone with balance challenges.

Free. Noon. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org September 2015

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River Valley Dragon Boat Festival Teams from area businesses, as well as independent teams, will compete in “dragon boats” in an Arkansas River race that will support Hamilton House Child and Family Safety Center of Fort Smith. Teams may register now. The boats are traditional Hong Kong-style dragon boats, 46 feet long, with 10 seats and 20 oarsmen. A drum seat in front of the first two paddlers holds a drummer – ideally the smallest, loudest, most rhythmic person. A pilot guides the boat with the steering oar in back. The stroke is unlike any other (the most similar is outrigger canoe) and taught in practice. Corporate team entry fee, $800; non-profit team fee, $500. Race begins at 9 a.m. Fort Smith Park, 5301 Riverfront Drive, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-1002 paddlesupftsmith.com

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Oct. 2 Autism Conference Three distinguished speakers present lectures about topics related to autism spectrum disorders. Dr. Jed Baker is a behavioral consultant for several New Jersey school districts where, nearly two decades ago, he organized a group to help children with social communication problems. Alexis Wineman is the first person with autism to be chosen as a state winner in the Miss America competition. Eustacia Cutler, the mother of Temple Grandin, will offer her view of autism through personal experience. Tickets start at $60. 7 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Harding University, 915 East Market Avenue, Searcy, Ark. 800-489-0727 fhautism.com Oct. 3 Play it Forward – Luke Pruitt A performance by Americana singer songwriter Luke Pruitt. Proceeds benefit the ALS Association Arkansas Chapter Inc., based in Rogers. $5. 6:30-7:30 p.m. The Walmart Museum, 105 North Main Street, Bentonville, Ark. 479-277-8923 walmartmuseum.com

Oct. 3 Mountain Biking for Kids Enjoy a family bike ride at the Boston Mountain Trail, which is 4.1 miles long and is rated easy to moderate.

Scott's Bicycle Shop will be on hand for safety checks.

Free. 9 a.m.-noon. Lake Fort Smith State Park, 15458 Shepherd Springs Road, Mountainburg, Ark. 479369-2469 arkansasstateparks.com

Oct. 4 TrailBlazers Hiking Club Fall Kick-Off TrailBlazers Hiking Club begins the 14th season of hiking at Devil's Den State Park with short hikes along the familiar trails and wiener roast/potluck. Take a side dish to share and your own beverages. The club will furnish hot dogs and the trimmings. Meet at Cloverleaf Plaza parking lot in Van Buren at 1:30 p.m. to carpool or at the large pavilion near the playground at the park at 2:30 p.m. Free. Devil's Den State Park, 11333 West Arkansas 74, West Fork, Ark. 479-646-9562

Oct. 10 Read, Write and Share Writers Workshop and Book Fair This one-day writers workshop is for authors, artists and writers interested in learning more about writing, sharing their experiences and interacting with the literary community. Activities include a memoir writing workshop by author Janis F. Kearney. The author, lecturer and memoirist graduated from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville with a journalism degree, after which she worked for state government, then Civil Rights legend Daisy Gatson Bates as managing editor of the Arkansas State Press Newspaper. In 1988, she purchased the newspaper and served as publisher.

She ended her career as a newspaper publisher in 1992. After working in the press office of the ClintonGore presidential campaign, she moved to Washington, where she served in the Clinton administration for eight years, five as personal diarist to Clinton. Published authors and non-profit groups also will be able to exhibit information or sell books during the book fair. To register, contact workshop event coordinator Nichelle Christian at nschristian03@gmail.com or janis@wowpublishing.org. A workshop luncheon is included in the $35 fee. Morning or afternoon session only, $20. Book fair table, $20. 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. 2107 Brazil Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 72

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DINING GUIDE

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Fresh from the sea at

Saké Sushi & Martini Bar

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owntown Fort Smith is thousands of miles from the Pacific Ocean, but the flavorful fresh catch and vivid colors of its warm blue waters are called to mind at Saké Sushi & Martini Bar. There’s a Left Coast vibe in both the restaurant’s atmosphere and its architectural design. By day, western sunlight streams through its huge windows and at night, the luminous blue bar top is pure Hollywood.

Saké’s menu definitely transports diners’ tastes to the sea. Its busy sushi station has been newly located to equal the visibility of the bar. It is a stage for the bright colors and diverse shapes of fresh seafood being prepared precisely and inventively by Saké’s artistic sushi chefs.

Dave Rolen, the entrepreneur who created Saké three years ago, has traveled widely in his main career in oil & gas and wanted to bring the full sushi experience to Fort Smith. Pam Rolen, Dave’s mother, operates the restaurant and bar with an a experienced, talented kitchen and sushi staff.

“Sushi is an art,” Pam explained. “People who enjoy the experience know that each roll is created one at a time.”

Pam Rolen and Dave Rolen, Saké owners, at the ocean-blue bar.

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Tiny masterpieces of sushi, above; A platter of appetizers, left. A peppermint martini, one of many special drink creations.

Saké recommends that newbies first try sushi as something like their shrimp tempura roll (the shrimp is fried) or an avocado and cucumber sushi roll. Not all sushi is made of uncooked fish, although that is the classic ingredient – a ball or roll of vinegar-flavored cold, cooked rice with a colorful garnish of fresh fish, fresh vegetable or egg. Rolls are then sliced so the filling is visible. Generally, sushi is served to be eaten by hand with a variety of hot, sour or sweet sauces and condiments such as ginger to cleanse the palate between flavors.

Experienced sushi lovers appreciate each roll or ball as edible art that also pleases the eye and nose. Saké’s professional sushi chefs are also creating bright, fresh wok-cooked selections to its grilled menu, Dave said.

“People who want to eat healthy will like the ‘clean eating’ of these fresh ingredients,” he added. “It’s gluten-free; they’re eating fish that came out of the ocean 24 hours ago.” Some popular items of that description are steelhead trout and bigeye (Atlantic) tuna.

And if one of the dining party just isn’t into the menu’s Asian Fusion, “they can order a monster rib-eye,” Dave added, from the steak menu.

Even they may be hooked with a taste of “Surf & Turf ” sushi, which includes rice-wrapped steak filet and shrimp tempura. “Nine out of 10 love it – it’s steak and it’s warm,” Dave said persuasively.

Saké is welcoming for families both at lunch and in the evenings. It is a smoke-free facility. During the business week, the menu includes special prices and service timed to a tight lunch hour. There are many entrees under $10 for dining in or takeout.

After work, Saké is perfect for a date night of dinner and wine followed by selections from the extensive martini bar. A rainbow of interesting concoctions, some signatures of the house, are available. Don’t miss Sake’s “dessert” martinis made with fruit or chocolate. Live music is presented on Wednesday nights. Find the restaurant’s Facebook page for specials.

Sake Sushi & Martini Bar 823 Garrison Avenue, Fort Smith Open Tuesday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

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DINING GUIDE BLISS CUPCAKES The outstanding cupcakes made fresh daily at Bliss can be a treat or a meal.

Unique flavors will transport those who indulge in a little bite of Bliss. Arriving with a box of Bliss can buy you love.

3101 South 70th Street, Fort Smith. @BlissCupcakeFSM

JUAN’S Juan’s Mexican Restaurant is a Fort Smith classic at 3121 Towson Avenue known for its signature, tasty cheese dip and delicious combo platters. Fast service and lunch specials make it a business lunch favorite. Fresh chili rellenos are a specialty.

LA HUERTA Whether enjoyed on the patio with live music at the 400 Garrison Avenue location or at La Huerta’s 5111 Towson Avenue restaurant or at 5605 Rogers Avenue, the entrees are fresh and the salsa zesty. Cool off with a margarita or beer.

PINK FLAMINGO BBQ Competitive? A little. They have the trophies to show for it. The Ralph Taylor family is sure they serve the best barbecue in town and they don’t mind plying diners with hearty side dishes to get the extra edge.

Maybranch Square, 2801 Old Greenwood Road, Fort Smith.

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DINING GUIDE NEUMEIER’S RIB ROOM It’s open! Neumeier’s Rib Room is back and open now at its new location on the corner of Garrison Avenue and 5th.

We’ve had Bill’s signature dry rub ribs already and yes, indeed, they are as great as you remember! 424 Garrison Avenue.

PAIZI’S GYROS Fort Smith’s favorite food truck fare has gone indoors. Hari Paizi’s menu of Greek entrees and ever-popular gyro sandwiches are now served in his new restaurant at the Quarry Shopping Center, 4900 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. OPA!

PAPA’S PUB & PIZZARIA This distinctive, loaded pizza style, voted over and over as Fort Smith’s “Favorite,” is the draw of Papa’s Pub & Pizzaria, 508 Garrison Avenue. It’s a gathering place to watch the big games and has an outdoor patio for relaxing with a party of friends.

RIVER CITY BISTRO It’s an authentic deli with delicious daily lunch and dinner. And it’s also a bistro with fine dining. Enjoy the ever-changing, unique menus by Chef Jason Haid. In this glorious season, new salads are invented daily. Stonewood Village, 7320 Rogers Avenue, No. 7, Fort Smith.

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DINING GUIDE SAKÉ SUSHI BAR Saké Sushi & Martini bar has unveiled a vibrant new look inside with fantastic mural art. They’ve also put the sushi bar “onstage” where the fresh, brightly flavored seafoods are artistically crafted into rolls. Martini menu and full bar. 823 Garrison Avenue, Fort Smith.

TGI FRIDAYS Happy Hour is a classic pastime at TGI Fridays with $3 drinks and $5 appetizers.

The fun menu always includes a very affordable lunch special such as the $5 burger or cheeseburger special. 6201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith.

WEINKELLER RESTAURANT A pleasant drive east to Exit 41 on I-540 leads to Wiederkehr Village, home of a 135-year-old winery and vineyards and the famous Wiederkehr Weinkeller Restaurant with Swiss, French and German cuisine. Go early for cellar tours and free wine tasting.

WHOLE HOG CAFE Connect with Whole Hog Barbecue on Facebook and Twitter for game day specials. Drive through and pick up your order ready to serve a family or crowd.

Choose from pulled pork, ribs, brisket, sausage, chicken. 4501 Burrough Road, Fort Smith. wholehogfortsmith.com

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