Entertainment Fort Smith Magazine - October 2013 by Entertainment Fort Smith Magazine

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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 KARRIE KELLY REBA MIZE CANDISE MONTEMAYOR KRISTAN ROLAND Contributing Photographers ROGER CARTER KARRIE KELLY GLENN GILLEY REBA MIZE CANDISE MONTEMAYOR LYNN WASSON BRENDA YELVINGTON

Advertising Sales DAVID CARTER davidcarter@efortsmith.com 479-650-9885 Advertising Sales Associate TRISH GILBRETH trish@efortsmith.com 479-651-3331 Advertising Coordinator KARRIE KELLY karrie@efortsmith.com 479-494-1888 Bookkeeping JULIE BERCH HAMILTON accounts@efortsmith.com 479-494-1888 © 2013 eFortSmith.com Media, Inc. 316 North 7th Street P.O. Box 1341 Fort Smith, AR 72902-1341 Office: 479-494-1888

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Entertainment Fort Smith

October 2013

Works in progress “Work in progress” is the recurring theme in this issue. Three of our October feature stories depended upon construction or production that was ongoing as our writers went to report on them. Their work goes on, but we had the job of taking a look at them at the moment. One was the Greater Fort Smith Association of Home Builders’ Showcase Home. For most of our 13 years of publication we’ve had a pictorial feature of the show-off residence built cooperatively by local builder/members. Every year, always, the Showcase Home is ready for its October tour and sale and is splendidly presented on its promised opening day. It’s just not always ready for its close-up when the magazine has to take pictures of it a month early. This year we can offer only a tantalizing (we hope) picture of its exterior, but we’ve seen enough “work in progress” to say that the supervising contractor Scott Black and other contributing craftsmen, suppliers and vendors are doing a wonderful job. This time, you’ll have to go see it yourself instead of paging through the armchair tour the magazine presents – and you should, anyway. Our story “The Show Must Go On” about the Fort Smith Little Theatre’s attractive remodeling could not have a better headline. During its year-long lobby renovation, which included construction on its light booth and backstage facilities for prop and costume storage, the shows did indeed go on. The actors worked around the construction, which was tidied up for patrons just before each show went on. With the patience of the actors and directors, good timing by the project managers and enough time, the renovation is complete and extremely good-looking.

The project we visited earliest in its progress was the documentary film being filmed now about the Northside High School band program. Brenda Yelvington, its director, was very courageous to allow us to write about this, her first-time effort as a filmmaker. But she is a courageous person and her passion for this project is inspiring. She fully admits she is an amateur. Trying something new – and very difficult to do well – is what she’s done throughout her life. Filmmaking is perhaps her fourth or fifth or hundredth new venture (there may be more) in which she has plunged in to learn by doing while attempting something she’s never done before. The subject matter that inspired her determination to make a documentary film are students. They’re living “works in progress.” She’s determined to shine a light on the lives and dreams of the high school students who make up the band, along with the dreams for their lives held by the adults who teach and direct them. The premiere of this film is more than a year from now, as shooting will continue through high school graduation and postproduction will not begin until next summer. We can’t wait to see it. Brenda’s empathy and gift for storytelling is in her heart and high-def video cameras are just tools – very complicated ones! – she’s learned to use in order to encourage and uplift the people she loves and mentors. In this issue, the Fort Smith Public Schools Annual Report to the Public hitches a ride. The eight-page, comprehensive report also is distributed as a stand-alone publication throughout the school district. We are proud to help bring it to our readers. – Lynn Wasson

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

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

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

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CONTENTS

October 2013

features

Brenda Yelvington filming an interview.

Lights, action, dreams.

Storyteller for the band The Northside band is the subject of a documentary film being made by first-time filmmaker Brenda Yelvington. Behind the music, she’s capturing dreams.

New Look, new season at Fort Smith Little Theatre An update at the theater is beautiful in the front of the house, practical backstage. The thoughtful changes include more ways to see the theater’s long and entertaining past.

The Festivals of Fall

Showcase Home

Autumn is celebrated in the streets, in the sky and in the vineyards at major festivals in our region at Van Buren, Poteau and the Wiederkehr Wine Cellars.

Contemporary living is easy in the 2013 Showcase Home at Fianna Place.

columns

by Linda Seubold 8 HOTSTUFF Wishing – the long and short of it.

UNITS a guest column 48 PARENTAL How do you help your child find an activity or sport? Kristan Roland shares her experiences.

New look at FSLT

departments

& GARDEN 20 HOME In Good Spirits offers fine wines,

fine cigars and fine service, too.

COOKING? 30 WHAT’S Recipes for ghoulish goodies

including Mummy Twinkie Pops.

& BEAUTY 34 HEALTH 75 They have an eye for fashion at the

Passion for Pumpkins

offices of Dr. Steven B. Stiles.

eve n t s

Ghoulish Goodies

GARDENING Pumpkins are the star of this season and even the “ugly” ones are cool.

OUTDOORS In every direction, we’re blessed with spectacular fall foliage.

DINING Taste of Fort Smith is the biggest buffet ever – gorge for a cause!

MUSIC & PERFORMANCE October onstage ... outstanding concerts and live performances in local venues.

CALENDAR FOR KIDS It’s all about the last day of the month. Choose Halloween fun from many celebrations.

of EVENTS 52 CALENDAR More autumn festival fun, talks and programs, hikes and runs.

Cover: NHS band drummer Jaiven Glover marches with a video camera on his chest. It’s controlled remotely by a film crew making a documentary about the band. Photo by Brenda Yelvington

Entertainment Fort Smith

October 2013

I got my life back!

Stop letting your weight hold you back. When you’re ready to lose the extra weight, our medical professionals can help. The Arkansas Surgical Weight Loss Programs offer you numerous options for your weight loss success, available at Sparks Regional Medical Center and Summit Medical Center. We can focus on your individual needs and budget, which may result in shorter hospital stays. Learn more about our programs at one of our free seminars, conveniently located in Fort Smith and Van Buren. Before another day goes by—or one more pound piles on—imagine your healthy life after weight loss surgery.

Henrietta S. Gastric bypass surgery by Dr. Gooden

ARSurgicalWeightLoss.com.

ARSurgicalWeightLoss.com

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BY LINDA SEUBOLD

Wishing – the Long and the Short of It A dear friend recently made a wish for me that may have sounded like an insult to anyone else. “I wish for you to be old and fat with lots of gray hair,” my friend texted me. Far from being insulted, I had to laugh. Webster says a wish can be an expression of a desire for something like a person's good health and that's what my friend, with a typical dose of wry humor, was wishing for me. This friend has been in remission from myeloma cancer for an inspiring 16 years following a stem cell transplant in another state similar to one I had in April at UAMS in Little Rock So, who better to know what to wish for me, after my surprise diagnosis and battle with multiple myeloma nearly cost me my life and left me weak, bald and barely weighing 103 pounds. Now, I'm thankful to say all three of my friend’s wishes for me seem to be coming true. Although my initial diagnosis last year identified multiple myeloma in 97 percent of my body, that count is now down to less than 5 percent and holding. That improvement plus ongoing treatment have greatly increased my prospects for a longer, active and productive life. So the first part of my friend's wish for me – that I grow old – seems to be activated. Secondly, although I greatly appreciated all the "fat transplant" offers I received from many friends and family members who learned how hard it can be sometimes to put back pounds lost during treatment, I'm now happily gaining, and retaining, those muchneeded pounds on my own, thank you very much! As for that third part of the wish – lots of gray hair – for the third time since my treatments began, my hair is finally growing back with vigor. I still can't tell yet if it's going to be black or dark brown mixed with silver, or gray or some other color, or a mixture of all the above. Meanwhile, I often wear a wig similar to the color of my pre-cancer treatment hair, which was a medium brown short cut with blondish highlights. My husband's still urging me to buy a short, pixie-cut, black wig, too. So there's no telling if the gray hair part of the wish for me will come true exactly as intended. But the part about having lots of hair seems to be off to a good start. 8

Entertainment Fort Smith

October 2013

While there are many more serious aspects of my cancer treatment and ongoing recovery than weight and hair loss issues, there has been another surprising peripheral effect I'm having to deal with. I'm nearly 4 inches shorter now than I was before I was admitted for treatment at UAMS in November. That's when nine spinal compression fractures caused by multiple myeloma were discovered and treated with kyphoplasty. Before the cancer caused my bone loss, I had been 5 feet 7 inches tall since about my junior year of high school. Now, in addition to all my jeans and slacks being too big, they're also nearly 4 inches too long. I have cabinets and closet shelves I can no longer reach without the aid of a foot stool or grabber tool. I need a cushion to sit comfortably at our dining table, and have to stand on my tip toes to hug my over-6-foot-tall husband and some of our children and grandchildren. Nearly every time I'm surprised anew by my now-diminished height, I think of a brief video clip we have of our nephew Josh when he was about 8 years old. My husband was filming random scenes and comments of family and friends at a family wedding when he asked Josh if he had any thoughts about the event that he wanted to share. Josh paused briefly before looking solemnly and directly into the camera lens and slowly, distinctly answering Frank's question with an earnest, unexpected query of his own – “Why am I so short?” I'm not sure just how tall Josh wanted to be then, or even how tall he is now. But he certainly did get taller as he grew up and became a handsome, outstanding high school and college baseball player and is now a successful chiropractor. I sometimes think of Josh's young yearning to be taller as I'm still being surprised or inconvenienced by my new, lower stature. But instead of wishing myself to be taller again, I try to remember to give thanks for how blessed I am to still be here – even if I am a lot shorter.

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Lights ... camera ...

Capturing Dreams on both sides of the lens

By Lynn Wasson

ocumentary filmmakers hope to become invisible in order to make their subjects more visible, to illuminate their lives and dreams. For first-time producer/director Brenda Yelvington, there’s a story – and many dreams – on both sides of the lens. Her subject is the Northside High School band – one entity, but also about 300 individuals, including students and their families, directors and administrators. The filmmaker would like them, only, to be seen when the film is completed next year, but Brenda had to put herself forward to be authorized by the school district and accepted by the band. And onlookers can’t help but notice the red-haired mom with the big camera, often right in the middle of flying drumsticks and pumping trombone slides. Along with their permission, she needs their trust, she explained, because her dream is to share their dreams – not just their hopes to present a good halftime show or win a seat at All-State, but for the lives they’re about to begin as graduation approaches. “I want to lift them up and create something so people can see inside,” she said. “I don’t have a thesis and that’s very scary – I don’t know the story it will tell. I’d love to script it and just find those shots. This movie is going to be life, whatever happens in the students’ lives and the directors’ lives. The story is unknown. But I think these kids are special.” Fortunately, she already has become friendly with most of the band. Her daughter, Kameron, is a senior and one of three drum majors and Brenda got to know many 11th- and 12th-graders from volunteering as a band parent. She helped the jazz band present two special concerts at Second Street Live the last two years. And she’s very comfortable nurturing young people in the performing arts. Brenda volunteered with the Young Actors Guild for many years, as a vocal coach and vocal director for musicals from “Annie” to its national award-winning production of “Les Misérables.” She continues to mentor actors and singers through their college and professional auditions. She’s also a former owner of a recording studio, experienced with professional audio standards. In “real life,” she laughs, “I was a CPA and professor.” In her latest role as a filmmaker, reality is her goal. She has an intense perception and empathy for the ways that young people project their private fears, hopes and self-esteem into the challenge of performance. 10

Entertainment Fort Smith

October 2013

Team huddle: Brenda reviews the shot list with the documentary crew at the opening game. From left, Ben Bandimere, Chris Middleton of Branchout Studios and student intern/photographer Augustine Nguyen.

With her heart full for the human story in the documentary, Brenda also has her head into how to shoot it. She is a self-described “gear geek.” The crew she has built includes several professional videographers and logistical wizards: Chris and Kim Middleton, owners of Branchout Studios, who brought on Ben Bandimere. Jess Gorham records sound. Emmy-winning composer Kevin Croxton will produce the film’s score. “We’re having a lot of fun,” she admitted. As the least-experienced shooter on the crew, she’s taken a training seminar at Chris Middleton’s suggestion and practices constantly. The whole crew shares gear, problem-solves and has survived some adventures already, as when a camera rigged on the outside of band director Gordon Manley’s truck suddenly broke loose as they were driving and filming. Manley himself caught it.

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The crew extensively documented sweaty, Shooting continued last month with onesummer band practice and in-class rehearsals on-one interviews of several seniors, one to capture preparation for marching season. junior and the band directors at Moka Joe’s The opening Northside home game in early coffeehouse, which Brenda calls their September was showtime for both the band production office. and the crew. It is these ongoing Cameras were interviews, made with the These kids are special. present for what the same subjects through the directors call camp I want to create something year, that Brenda values meeting, the pre-game most. As her relationship that lets people see them talk they give just with the students has inside. before the band deepened, she has felt her emerges into Mayorole as a storyteller become Thompson Stadium. It’s as intense as what’s increasingly weighted – and yet very delicate. happening between the coaches and the football “These kids are allowing me to be there team next-door in the activity center. when they audition for All-Region and AllManley drilled in reminders about the State band,” she said appreciatively. “They’re halftime show, but also gave a stirring sermon to going to have a camera on their face when a pin-drop quiet bandroom about how the band they find out if they made it. I’m going to be represents not only its members, but the whole there when they get that envelope from school and all of Fort Smith. He told them how college. We’re going to graduation.” proud all the directors were of their hard work She said she has grown to love her subjects and shared his confidence that they would play and dreads the possibility of capturing life’s and march well. The crew also shot final sorrows as honestly as its joys, but is uniform inspection – band T-shirts tucked in, determined to show both. black socks, black Bando marching shoes. “The responsibility of it overwhelms me, It was a beautiful, clear night as the film crew the trust they’re putting in me,” she said, “to went to work ticking off the more than a dozen tell the true story, what I see as the true story, sequences planned on Brenda’s shot list. which I believe will be overwhelmingly The shooters scrambled from the top to the uplifting and positive.” bottom of the band bleachers for most of the first two quarters, then met up to change gear for the halftime show. They rushed to the activity center to rig a snare drum player (as he continued drumming) with a Go-Pro digital camera – a small, rugged, high-def camera that can be mounted almost anywhere. In this case, the Go-Pro had a drumsticklevel, embedded view of the halftime show, operated remotely by one of the crew. The footage was “fabulous,” Brenda declared. But what they heard on the audio brought tears to her eyes. It will definitely make the final edit. The latest in video equipment is digital SLR camera bodies (Canon) fitted with an arsenal of lenses, mics, viewfinders and monitors. One cameraman can now carry aboard their body what two (or more) people once did for conventional movie-making. There was even a tripod-mounted dolly in use for tracking shots. Brenda, who had permission to stand on the football field during the marching, learned something critical for the next halftime show – her camera, even with a rifle-stock style mount to brace it, grew heavier as the show went on. “My arms started shaking. Next time, use the monopod mount!” she gasped.

“

Documentary filmmaker Brenda Yelvington.

Middleton and Bandimere rig band director Gordon Manley’s truck for a rolling shot of him driving a new assistant director through their students’ neighborhoods.

In the back seat, Brenda captures audio and video with a handheld digital rig.

Bandimere will become a drone pilot to fly this quadcopter camera mount for overhead video.

”

October 2013

Entertainment Fort Smith

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Show MUST Go On

Photo by Nancy Blochburger

THE

A sparkling facelift dresses the Fort Smith Little Theatre for a new season and years to come

atrons of the Fort Smith Little Theatre will soon enjoy a new “set” that isn’t on the stage but will enhance their theater-going experience. Over the last year, the lobby has undergone a design transformation that will debut with White Christmas in November and the newly announced 2013-14 season. A program of six shows including comedy, mystery, romance and music and three off-season productions are planned. After performing in the 200-seat theater in the Belle Grove Historic District for 27 years, the all-volunteer group has completed a carefully planned and patiently executed renovation. While the lobby and ticket office are the most visible refreshment, space also was cleverly gained for needed set and costume storage and critical technical upgrades were made behind the scenes, explained Nancy Blochburger, who served as the theater’s project liaison with Gaylon Hunter of MAHG Architecture and Crawford Construction. As important as the visible changes, the theater also preserved and illuminated its history as the state’s oldest continuously operating community theater. In the center of the lobby and visible from through an arched window stands the Harlequin Man, the figure of an actor rendered in stained glass. The sculpture has symbolized the Fort Smith Little Theatre since it was displayed on North O Street outside the previous Little Theatre. Collages of dynamic photos from past plays are arranged in the lobby where flat-screen monitors also display slideshows of many more images of past and current productions. All the cast photos that once hung on the walls have now been safely digitally archived to preserve the history of the long-running theater’s accomplishments, Blochburger noted. 12

Entertainment Fort Smith

October 2013

Photos and play programs dating back to the founding of theater in 1947 have been collected and published on the website fslt.org. Hundreds of actors and volunteers have participated over the years and some of these photographs have not been seen for ages, she said. Opening night galas with champagne and hors d’oeuvre will be made more gracious with added lobby seating and a few new café tables in the widened wings that lead to the theater doors. The overall efficiency of the organizations will be enhanced by installation of new climate control, some exterior improvements and renovation of the restrooms, business office, light booth and box office. A new curtain time, 7:30 p.m., will apply through this season. An extra matinee has been added to the schedule in reponse to demand. Season tickets including every performance are $100 per person for Gala Opening Night tickets; regular season tickets are $55 per person and can be purchased starting in November, by phone and online at 479-783-2966 or fslt.org. Fort Smith Little Theatre 2013-14 Season Feb. 13-23 Dixie Swim Club Directed by Angela Covey Five Southern Belles from a college swim team unite every August away from men, kids and work. Friendship remains, laughter prevails. April 3-13 Boeing, Boeing Directed by Suzanne Thomas A romantic comedy for adults set in the 1960s. An American in Paris has three fiancees – all stewardesses for TWA – who don’t know.

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Photos by Glenn Gilley

June 5-15 Leading Ladies Directed by Duff Taylor When two British actors with empty pockets plan to dishonestly claim an inheritance, complications ensue. July 31-Aug. 10 9 to 5: The Musical Directed by George Mann and Dwight Curry Rollicking music and lyrics written by Dolly Parton score this revenge comedy of three women vs. their unbearably sexist boss. Sept. 18-28 Splendor in the Grass Directed by Jill Moody-Ledbetter This adaptation of the 1961 movie plays out the ill-fated, passionate romance of a wealthy high school athlete and his less-privileged girlfriend. Nov. 13-23 A Talent for Murder Directed by Melissa Vitale A wealthy writer lives in a mansion filled with valuable art, her physician, relatives and an ex-con, all the elements of a murder mystery. Who done it? FSLT will also stage Make Believe, Nightfall with Edgar Allan Poe and Gift of the Magi as off-season productions. Above: Nancy Blochburger (from left) at the lobby’s new box office with volunteers Shannon Stoddard and Bruce Birkhead. Melissa Vitale, left, and Shannon Stoddard sit beneath one of the large photo collages that decorate the lobby.

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Festivals everywhere on the street

in the skies Oct. 18-19

Poteau Balloonfest

Oct. 11-13

Van Buren Fall Festival

Wind and weather permitting, the skies over Poteau, Okla., will fill with colorful hot air balloons for a few hours after sunrise and before sunset each day. They also will be a beautiful spectacle during the evening “Balloon Glow” each night.

Van Buren opens Historic Main Street to thousands of visitors to its Fall Festival, from the courthouse to the train depot. The hometown merchants will be open with antiques, collectibles, decorator studios, art galleries and more will be open. On the street, exhibitors of fine artwork, crafts, antiques and flea market finds will display their wares in tented booths.

The festival also happens on the ground. Starting at noon Oct. 18, the festival gates open with carnival rides, a petting zoo, BMX Freestyle exhibitions, entertainment by talented animal performers and Mean Machine monster truck rides. Helicopter rides may be available, as well.

Friday evening will feature a mayor's welcome at 6 p.m. followed by a free bluegrass concert. Arts & crafts vendors will open Saturday at 9 a.m. At 7 p.m. Saturday, country music star Eddy Raven performs a free concert. Raven’s No. 1 hit, “I Got Mexico,” broke him out into a country career that also recognized his Cajun roots. He also hit the top of the charts with “Shine, Shine, Shine,” “I’m Gonna Get You,” “Joe Knows How to Live,” “In a Letter to You” and “Bayou Boys.” Concert-goers should take their own seating for this outdoor concert.

The evening brings the delicious aroma of smoked meats as the Bikes, Balloons & BBQ tasting begins at 6 p.m.

Fun continues Sunday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission is free. Historic Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-410-3026 vanburen.org

On Oct. 19, the balloons fly at dawn if conditions permit. The festival grounds come alive at 9 a.m. for all-day fun. Festival crowds may see magician Jonathan Meyer, the Indian Territory Pistoliers, a Mr. & Mrs. Balloon Fest pageant, America’s Best Frisbee Dogs and Mutts Gone Nuts acts and more. The carnival opens at 10 a.m. Armbands are available in advance from the Poteau Chamber of Commerce for $3 until 3 p.m. Oct. 18. Armbands will be $5 at the gate. The festival is held at the LeFlore County Fairgrounds on U.S. 271 in Poteau, Okla. 918-647-9178 poteauchamber.com

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celebrate autumn in the vineyard Oct. 12

50th Annual Wiederkehr Village Weinfest The annual celebration of wine-making and the heritage of the Wiederkehr Winery is an allday festival where grape-stomping, vineyard and winery tours, wine-tasting and traditional Swiss and German foods, culture and music completely overtake Wiederkehr Village near Altus, Ark. Begun in 1880 when Johann Andreas Wiederkehr and his family emigrated to St. Mary's Mountain and began producing grapes for wine-making, the Wiederkehr Wine Cellars grew from the original cellar he dug. His wine cellar was converted into the Weinkeller Restaurant, serving authentic Swiss and European cuisine. Johann Wiederkehr helped to pioneer the American wine industry – Wiederkehr Wine Cellars is U.S. Bonded Winery No. 8. From these humble beginnings, the winery has remained a family operation with third- and fourth-generation members dedicated to producing fine wines. Admission is free. Festivities begin at 8 a.m. From Interstate 40, take Exit 41 onto Arkansas 186 South. Follow the signs to Wiederkehr Wine Cellars, about 4 miles, to the Wiederkehr Winery near Altus, Ark.

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SHOWCASE HOME

Artisan details make this year’s Showcase Home distinctive

ach year, a new home appears that’s a subtle cut above similar new homes on the market. Prospective homebuyers who have been through the trek and walked through a lot of prospects in a day will suddenly notice this home is subtly more spacious, its appointments more luxe and that the sparkle of added quality is seen from the curb. That home this year is found in the Fianna Place subdivision at 8915 South 12th Street. In a pleasant, wooded neighborhood of attractive family homes, this address is the 2013 Showcase Home, created cooperatively by the members of the Greater Fort Smith Association of Home Builders. The supervising contractor is Scott Black of Scott Black Construction Co., one of the builder members who has also built many of the neighboring homes in the subdivision. At 2,400 square feet, the Showcase Home enjoys a depth from front to back of 4 feet more than other nearby, typical homes, added spontaneously by the builder for extra spaciousness. It is just one of the many upgrades in the four-bedroom, 2.5-bath home. The Showcase Home’s purpose is to show the public the best construction practices, innovative building materials and energy efficiency available for the price, highlighting the quality standards and skills of Home Builder members and local associate vendors. 16

Entertainment Fort Smith

October 2013

The home’s charm is evident from the curb, where its custom stone-and-brick exterior appeals to the eye. It’s unique to 8915 – the combination of colors of the cut stone and brick were carefully applied by artisan craftsmen Scott Black Construction pairs with for many new homes. The fireplace, a beautiful archway over the kitchen’s granite countertop and a stone, wood-burning barbecue pit also have been hand-laid to echo the exterior.

The 2013 Showcase Home 8915 South 12th Street Fianna Place, Fort Smith Open House Oct. 5-20 Noon to 6 p.m.

No other home will be exactly like it, Black said. “We don’t do cookie-cutter construction.” With the opportunity to use the best of materials supplied by other Home Builder members, the home becomes even more distinctive with hardwood floors, interior doors, hand-picked hardware, custom cabinetry, granite

and tile surfaces, and custom ceiling treatments. The single-story floor plan allows for family togetherness in the open-plan living area and kitchen. A vent-free natural gas fireplace graces the living room. Seen over a beautiful granite counter, the kitchen has high-efficiency appliances with chef-approved gas cooking and a contemporary glass backsplash. The living area is extended outdoors with a covered back porch appointed with the stone barbecue and a built-in gas grill. When the family members move away to bedrooms for privacy, the very latest in wholehouse sound-and-data systems allow each person to access whatever they choose on computers, tablets and hand-held devices, including their individual music choices. Several of the in-home systems such as lighting and security can be programmed remotely from a family member’s cell phone. The master suite features a spacious bedroom and reading area and bath with walk-in tiled shower and whirlpool tub, opening to a very spacious and well-appointed master dressing room. Storage is abundant in a central island fitted with drawers and an extensive built-in custom closet system for hanging garments, folded clothes and footwear. Not seen but definitely felt in comfort and in the monthly bills are innovations in energy conservation such as a whole-house “skin” of

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SHOWCASE HOME energy-certified materials and construction methods from roof materials to low-E glassed insulating vinyl windows, fiberglass R15 wall and R38 attic insulation with a thermal barrier. Highly efficient, affordable natural gas powers the hot water system and central heating, provided by energy sponsor and Home Builder member AOG. A centrally located laundry room is well-fitted with cabinetry, storage and hanger space. The two-car garage has automated, insulated overhead doors with a vent-free gas heater with convenient entry into utility and pantry areas near the kitchen. Off-loading the family’s groceries will take only steps from car to shelf. Even the driveway and front entry approach are customized with stamped patterns and stained concrete in earth-toned color, also seen on the backyard patio. The property is fully landscaped and sodded and an irrigation system is installed. The home is marketed through Bradford & Udouj Realtors. The Showcase Home will be open from noon to 6 p.m. Oct. 5-20. The fall Parade of Homes runs concurrently. See local listings for addresses of more new homes built by the Greater Fort Smith Home Association of Home Builders, open during the parade.

Reach Fianna Place and the Showcase Home conveniently from I-540 or U.S. 271. October 2013

Entertainment Fort Smith

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SHOWCASE HOME

Entertainment Fort Smith

October 2013

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At Fairview, Peachtree Hospice employees enjoy helping kids as their Partners in Education

n their second year of volunteering, new Partners in Education Peachtree Hospice are getting comfortable with their young “partners,” the students of Fairview Elementary. “This partnership gives us an opportunity to share our talents and compassion with these children,” said Shani Patterson of Peachtree Hospice. The best part of being a partner, she said, is “the feeling you get by making a difference in these kids’ lives. It’s very rewarding spending time with them and being able to help out where necessary. The relationship is mutually beneficial; the children have also given back to us. They provided placemats for our annual Christmas party and made snowflakes for us to display in our Hospice Unit at Sparks Hospital.” Patterson said she had learned how to make friends by lifting a child up to reach the monkey bars. She quickly became the most popular person on the playground. Volunteers of Peachtree Hospice have donated box tops and pop can tabs for fundraising, mentored students in the classroom and lunchroom and also have donated gift cards given as awards of excellence at quarterly assemblies.

Jacqui Sargent of Peachtree Hospice helps a Fairview student with colorful artwork. Charlotte Botteicher, Amber Daniel, Fanta Gibson, Chloe Jackson, Shani Patterson and Jean Wood are the team of employees who volunteer at the school. Photo courtesy of the Fort Smith Public School District

October 2013

Entertainment Fort Smith

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HOME AND GARDEN

Co-owners Michael (from left), Jim and Tommy Hadley with manager Karen Hawthorne.

Selected and served In Good Spirits

n Good Spirits” is both the name and atmosphere of the Fort Smith liquor store owned by Jim, Michael and Tommy Hadley and David Harper Jr. and operated daily by general manager Karen Hawthorne. A point of pride is the store’s carefully curated selection of 2,700 different wines in a climatecontrolled wine cellar, according to Jim Hadley. The temperature of the cellar is a constant 54 degrees with added humidity control. “Climate control is especially important for high-end wines,” he explained. “Wine is a living organism and it doesn’t take much to cook wine – small temperature fluctuations in wine are not good.” “Customer feedback about the cellar being equal in quality to larger cities like Dallas is something we hear a lot,” Jim said with a smile. “The collection is constantly changing, growing and upgrading every day. “

Selections from In Good Spirits’ cigar humidor. 20

Entertainment Fort Smith

October 2013

In addition to discoveries from new wineries and vintage offerings, In Good Spirits also has fine imported champagnes. Michael Hadley said it’s not only the store’s vast selection of wine, beer and spirits but the staff ’s knowledge and helpfulness that attracts customers and helps them branch out and try new beverages. “As owners, we are more in the role of consultant and try to keep up on the current trends in wine, spirits and beer,” said Michael. “People who need help planning dinner pairings, weddings parties or holiday celebrations can get help from any of us.” Hawthorne, who is at the store most days including Saturdays, said helping customers plan for events is one reason she finds her work so enjoyable. “I have a lot of experience with large groups and, with a little information about what is going on, I can help figure out how many people want white or red wine, and how many want vodka or beer,” said Hawthorne. “It’s a bit of science – even the weather plays a big role in what it is people want to drink.” The store is permitted to offer tastings, which many patrons enjoy. A tasting is usually a 1-ounce sample, limited to a 3ounce total per beverage. Tastings are offered for specialty beers, liquor or wine, including seasonal arrivals like pumpkin spice drinks. Wine events are held at the store or at Jim Hadley’s home when In Good Spirits hosts a

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HOME AND GARDEN winemaker. Patrons are able to buy a bottle and have it signed by the wine’s vintner, which can be very exciting for collectors. In Good Spirits also has a selection of fine cigars. As with wines, cigars are specially stored to preserve flavor and quality and the staff will help patrons make a choice they may enjoy. Pipe tobacco and pipes also are stocked. The shelves hold an astonishing variety of popular flavored vodkas, hundreds of labels of craft beers and even wines and beers made in Arkansas and Oklahoma. Barware and tailgating accessories for local teams are in stock. Friendly customer service makes shopping convenient – the staff can prepare custom gift baskets or pack orders to be ready for pick-up for customers who call ahead. Jim Hadley said if a customer is looking for something not currently available, they will make every effort to obtain it – sometimes bringing in items, via distributors, that were not formerly offered in the state. “We are entering an exciting time of year with the holidays coming up as people prepare for celebrations with family and friends,” said Jim. “This is one of the few businesses where customers walk in smiling and also leave with a smile.” In Good Spirits, 12100 U.S. 71 South, Fort Smith. 479-434-6604 Facebook/In Good Spirits Open Monday-Wednesday 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., Thursday 8:30 a.m.-11 p.m. and Friday and Saturday 8:30 a.m. to midnight.

Tommy Hadley taking a high-gravity Abita brew. October 2013

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home & garden goodies

Bright silicone spatulas with fun sayings on one side and a measurement table on the other, available at Mailbox Express.

Canvas jack-o’-lantern on a wooden stand, painted metal pumpkin and chevron dish tote from BrickCity Emporium. Razorback metal chair and hitch covers and vintage rotary wall phone, found at Belle Starr Antique Mall.

Entertainment Fort Smith

October 2013

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home & garden goodies Twenty Grand vodka, premium cigars and tobaccos, pipes and double-blade cigar cutter from In Good Spirits.

Pumpkin yard art and chalk yard sign available at Sharum’s Garden Center.

Three nesting storage trunks by Coaster from Furniture Emporium.

October 2013

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home & garden goodies

Glazed crock lidded cookie jar found at Creative Furniture.

Sandwich platter with fresh gourmet meats, cheese and bread from Paul's Meat Market.

Patchwork quilt and lamp with painted base and ruffled shade from Marcia Cooksey Interiors.

Entertainment Fort Smith

October 2013

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home & garden goodies

Vintage silverware with almost full service for 18 found at Designer Again.

Handmade Baby I Candy tutu with ballerina headband in fall hues, scarecrow door hanger and serving tray from Jennifer’s at Sparks Medical Center. “Out to Dry” by Fort Smith artist John Bell Jr. available at Van Buren’s Center for Art & Education.

October 2013

Entertainment Fort Smith

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home & garden goodies

Spooky partytime skull hanger available at Now & Then Shoppe.

Blue and gold kimono-style lamp with pagoda-inspired shade found at Main Street Interiors.

Distressed and glazed ceramic pig platters in three sizes and colors from Neumeier Nursery and Florist.

Entertainment Fort Smith

October 2013

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home & garden goodies

A basket of Halloween treats available at Abilities Unlimited Resale Store.

Metal pig with distressed finish, antler candelabra and decorative ribbons and trim for fall available from The Goods.

October 2013

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Bumpy or round, pumpkins are in Photos and story by Reba Mize

umpy and oddly shaped is the new orange and round – not on fashion runways but in the pumpkin patch. There isn’t a symbol more closely tied to the joy of fall than the good old pumpkin. But how and why and when did pumpkins get this glorification? How did this Cucurbita find a place in a holiday season? The jack-’o-lantern also was known as a “turnip lantern” but to avoid the specifics that intrigued me for hours and most folks for only moments, I will just say it is believed to have begun as an actual lantern. One could use a turnip, a beet or indeed a pumpkin with the innards pulled out with an opening carved and a lit candle inside carried by a person at night to light the way. I would guess it got spooky when people started carving out crude faces for the holes.

Entertainment Fort Smith

October 2013

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Ever walk at night with a small light through a big dark star-filled world? Imagining ghouls and goblins in the night is easy. The medieval practice of “mumming” on the eve of All Saints Day contributed to the idea of present-day Halloween. Mumming involved wearing costumes and general mischief making. Sound familiar? I also enjoy the connection between jack’o-lanterns and the phenomena of the “will of the wisp,” the mystifying lights seen over the bogs in Ireland associated with fairies and ghosts. It is a tradition in my family that each year we set aside a day and pick out our prize pumpkin – it’s as much fun as picking a Christmas tree. In our area, there are pick-your-own pumpkin patches – a joy for kids – or an already lovingly picked pile to choose from. Growing your own giant pumpkin, as I have found out, requires some faith and work. My own editor Donna’s brother Roger Carter is a pumpkineer. Most of us think of planting a pumpkin about Oct. 1 when we start feeling the first cool evenings in our part of Arkansas. Roger explains, “If you want a pumpkin, you have to believe in the future. You have to set your seed in this area around the end of June.” If you want to compete with the world’s record, you will need a big ol’ truck, as last year’s prize went to a 2,009-pounder. Put on your pumpkin pickin’ pants and peruse the plethora of round orange ones or go wild with a bumpy and odd one. This year, you could be your neighborhood pumpkinista. Happy hunting!

October 2013

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WHAT’S COOKING with KRISTAN ROLAND

October is absolutely my favorite month of the year. The weather starts to cool (hopefully), cute boots come out of the closet and the stores are full of fun candy!! Here are some sweet treats to try at home -- I think your little monsters will love them!! Check out Kristan’s blog at confessionsofacookbookqueen.com

SPIDER PEANUT BUTTER BLOSSOMS ⁄2 cup shortening ⁄2 cup creamy peanut butter 1 ⁄2 cup firmly packed brown sugar 1 ⁄2 cup sugar 1 large egg 2 tablespoons milk 1 teaspoon vanilla 13⁄4 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 ⁄2 teaspoon salt Sugar 48 mini peanut butter cups, unwrapped Candy eyes and black licorice rope Chocolate almond bark 1 1

MUMMY TWINKIE POPS Twinkies Cookie sticks I prefer cookie sticks because they’re thicker and sturdier. White candy melts or almond bark Candy eyes These are so much fun for Halloween and completely edible! Treat bags and ribbon for wrapping Melt candy according to package instructions. Insert top 1/3 of cookie stick in melted candy. Place in center of Twinkie. Place Twinkies on wax paper-lined baking sheet and put in the freezer for about 15 minutes. This allows the stick to set firmly in the Twinkie. Coat Twinkies in melted candy, shaking off excess. Place back on baking sheet and return to the freezer for 10 minutes or so, until candy coating is set. Using a fork, drizzle melted candy on the Twinkies by using a back-and-forth motion. Place eyes on the top 1/3 of the Twinkies. Return to baking sheet in the freezer until set. Wrap and tie with ribbon. 30 Entertainment Fort Smith October 2013

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Cream shortening, peanut butter, brown sugar and 1/2 cup sugar. Add egg, milk and vanilla. Beat well. In a medium bowl, mix flour, baking soda and salt. Add to creamed mixture. Beat on low speed until stiff dough forms. Shape into 1-inch balls. Roll in sugar. Place 2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheet. Bake until golden brown, about 10 minutes. Top each cookie immediately with a peanut butter cup, placed upside down. Move to wire rack to cool. Attach candy eyes and pieces of black licorice rope to "spider bodies" using a bit of melted almond bark once the cookies have cooled. Adapted from Allrecipes.com

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CANDY CORN BARK 2 cups milk chocolate candy melts 2 cups white chocolate (vanilla) candy melts 1 ⁄2 cup orange candy melts 1 ⁄2 cup yellow candy melts About a cup of candy corn Spread melted milk chocolate on a baking sheet lined with wax paper. I used a baking sheet that was roughly 9×13. Place baking sheet in the freezer for about 5 minutes until chocolate has hardened. Melt white chocolate and yellow and orange candy melts. Spread white chocolate evenly over milk chocolate layer. Working quickly, spoon the orange and yellow candy randomly over the melted white chocolate. Use a knife to draw swirls in the chocolate. Before candy sets, sprinkle candy corns across the top of the bark, pressing gently to make sure it sticks. Place pan in the freezer for about 5 minutes, then remove and break into pieces. I filled treat bags with the bark and attached cute tags. This bark is extremely versatile, you could also switch to M&M’s and make different colored swirls to match — just use your imagination.

October 2013

Entertainment Fort Smith

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OUTDOORS

Gorgeous any way you go

n the northeast, city dwellers from New York, Boston and Philadelphia avidly track fall foliage reports, trying to predict the peak of fall color so they can make a long drive to see the changing foliage. Some weekends, bumper-to-bumper traffic crawls along New England routes. Here, we’re so lucky we sometimes take it for granted. Drive Arkansas roads in almost any direction from Fort Smith from late October through November and count on seeing some of the most beautiful fall color found anywhere in the country. And Arkansas’ color is even visible from interstates, especially from Alma to Fayetteville. A peak color time is not a worry here. Out on the Boston Mountains and in the national forests that surround us, change happens gradually and no two people could agree which day of color was the best. The best day is probably the one you were there! Because of the diversity of tree species found here – Southern red oak, white oak, post oak, hickory, black gum, sugar maple, paw paw and dogwood, to name a few – color variations are almost like a living, evolving Impressionist painting.

Entertainment Fort Smith

October 2013

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OUTDOORS

Five ways to enjoy fall foliage: See it from a boat Weather permitting, Lake Fort Smith State Park takes visitors on scheduled cruises on the lake aboard the park’s pontoon boat. In October, Fall Magic Boat Tour cruise dates are Oct. 13, 20 and 27 from 2-3:30 p.m. Reservations are taken at the marina at 479-3691018. Adult $9; children $5, and children under 6 are free. Besides, you can enjoy Scenic U.S. 71 on the way! Take a hike The friendly TrailBlazers Hiking Club always welcomes newcomers. Trailblazer hikes take in some of the most beautiful areas in Arkansas and rates each trail for its difficulty – most are for all ages. Start Oct. 6 with the annual Devil’s Den hike and potluck picnic. Easy parks trails are on the agenda. All the hikes are in the magazine’s Calendar of Events with details. Photos courtesy Arkansas Parks & Tourism Department.

Drive the Pigtrail Arkansas 23 from Ozark, Ark., to Arkansas 16 (at Brashears, Ark.) is twisty, climbing and has absolutely stunning Ozark National Forest views. Visit Mount Magazine State Park Stay at the spectacular Mount Magazine Lodge or take a cabin where you might be able to leaf-peep from a hot tub on the deck. Or just drive up for lunch or dinner at the excellent Skycrest Restaurant. The trip up Arkansas 9 from Paris to the Lodge has outstanding view.

Drive the Talimena National Scenic Byway First go south to Mena, Ark., then tour atop the 54-mile crest of the highest points between the Appalachians and the Rockies – Rich Mountain and Winding Stair Mountain in the Ouachita National Forest. Spanning the highest east-west mountain range in America, one breathtaking panorama follows another as this national scenic byway winds along forested mountaintops between Mena and Talihina, Okla.

October 2013

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HEALTH & BEAUTY FOCUS

Dr. Steven Stiles shows a leading sunglasses choice. He’s wearing Zero Gravity frames.

Fashion and style catch their eyes

he most important thing to Dr. Steven Stiles and his staff is that their patients see well. But they’re also known to help their patients look good doing it. Visiting the eyewear department at Dr. Stiles’ office has long been like a step into a very current boutique and style has become a distinction of his practice’s image. To offer the latest looks to their patients, Dr. Stiles and Pam Caldwell, head of the eyewear boutique, go to the top eyewear market in New York every year and sometimes travel with more of the staff to industry shows in Las Vegas. It’s exciting to see the new collections presented by designers such as Prada, Stella McCartney and Paul Smith in New York, Caldwell said. She and Dr. Stiles browse every aisle of the huge vision expo and also meet with their favorite designers by appointment in private suites. “In the Tom Ford boutique, there are models walking around to try glasses on for you,” Caldwell said. “Beautiful women – and men – model the frames.” Beyond beauty, there is the medical science of optometry. Dr. Stiles makes selections guided by his professional knowledge of how effectively each pair of frames can be fitted with a wide variety of prescription lenses. Today’s lenses allow most prescriptions to be fitted into most eyeglasses, he said. “It’s a lot easier to be able to fit these thinner lenses into fashion frames.” Experience also helps them reject eyewear whose design is defeating its purpose. “We can just tell when a frame is too heavy on the bridge, for example,” the doctor said. “And we try them all on ourselves, too.”

Entertainment Fort Smith

October 2013

Caldwell’s greatest pleasure is to discover a just-released pair of fashion frames that is perfect for one of their clients – personal shopping. “This year as we were walking, I saw a frame and I said, ‘That is (one of their patients)!’” Caldwell said. “Dr. Stiles said, ‘I don't know, it's a bit bold,’ and I said, ‘I know she'll love it.’ I called her, she came in and said, ‘I love it, it's me!’” Because of their relationship with fashion eyewear designers, several travel to Fort Smith to present trunk shows at Dr. Stiles’ office. "We'll set up tables everywhere and they'll set up all their colors, every one," Caldwell explained. “Customers come by invitation or sometimes the show is open to anyone in our practice.” In some cases, the artisan/designer themselves have presented trunk shows.

Pam Caldwell with Bulgari’s line of eyewear.

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HEALTH & BEAUTY FOCUS

Elaborately set stones create jewelry for the eyes.

Looking good in eyeglasses is as important to men as it is to women, Dr. Stiles said, although their style differences may be more subtle. “We have men who let their wives pick out their frames," Caldwell said, “but it’s so much fun when men care about their glasses and sunglasses. I pick out frames for a few men in New York – usually an Oliver Peoples or Paul Smith frames.” Current choices for men include precise, rimless, lightweight frames like the Zero Gravity style Dr. Stiles wears, as well as classic, dark-rimmed specs. Oliver Peoples’ “Gregory Peck” design is exactly the iconic round eyeglasses the actor wore in the role of Atticus Finch in “To Kill a Mockingbird.” Men’s and women’s styles are available to enhance vision for athletic performance, Dr. Stiles said. Oakley offers golfers lenses that are polarized and tinted to help the player see the ball. Some sharpen vision specifically for field sports, water activities, for bicycling and motorcycling, he explained. The "invisible" look is seen in Tag Heuer's rimless frames with carbon fiber earpieces and other distinctive temple designs. Eyewear’s high-fashion profile has made getting a first pair of glasses a treat instead of the sometimes dreaded occasion it once was for children and teenagers, Caldwell noted. “I have seen children cry or try to flunk their eye tests because they wanted to wear glasses.” Along with his practice’s flair for style, eye health is always primary to Dr. Stiles, who also specializes medically in treating patients with low vision, such as conditions associated with macular degeneration and diabetic eye disease, for which he has done post-graduate studies. His goal is to improve the quality of life for people with low vision by providing optical devices to help them overcome the handicapping effects of visual loss. Dr. Steven B. Stiles, Optometrist 2401 Waldron Road, Fort Smith 479-452-2020 stileseyegroup.com October 2013

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health and beauty goodies Clinical Care Skin Solutions Survival and JumpStart kits from Vanity Calls.

Orange Party Line and natural Wrap Star Tano bags found at Fashion Boutique.

Jewel-accented frames by Fendi and tortoiseshell Pucci frames, available exclusively at Ennen Eye Center.

Entertainment Fort Smith

October 2013

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health and beauty goodies

Trinity Ranch jeans, Doral Sugar Skull top with leggings from N Style Revue.

Hats for all occasions found at Sutherlands.

Assortment of spa and bath aromatherapies available at Luther Stem Pools.

October 2013

Entertainment Fort Smith

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health and beauty goodies

Violet Love headbands available at Unique Boutique.

Be Curly Aveda all-natural hair products from Metropolis Salon.

Brighton soft leather bags with embroidered fronts and jewelry-like accents from The Purple Plume.

Ty Monster, Beanie Boo and other stuffed animals found at Coleman Pharmacy.

Entertainment Fort Smith

October 2013

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health and beauty goodies

Prada and Juicy Couture sunglasses available from Dr. Steven Stiles Eye Group.

Jewels by Star platinum and diamond ring from Newton's Jewelers.

Bath and body products, new from MoroccanOil found at Salon Elements.

October 2013

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OCTOBER 6

A Blue or Gray: Historical talk reveals that Western Arkansas had divided loyalties during the Civil War

rkansas seceded from the United States in 1861. Many people think all Arkansans were loyal citizens and soldiers of the Confederacy during the Civil War. But in an upcoming presentation, Tom Wing, a history professor at the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith, will argue that was hardly the case in the Van Buren-Fort Smith area. Wing, director of the Drennen-Scott Historic Site, will present a talk titled “A Rapid Lapse to Barbarism: The Civil War in Crawford County and Western Arkansas,” from 2-4 p.m. Oct. 6 at the DrennenScott Historic Site. This is the sixth talk in the Crawford County Chronicles history series, held the first Sunday of each month through November. “It was a divided area in every sense of the word,” Wing said. “The city of Van Buren was occupied by the Confederacy in 1861, but a lot of pro-Union people remained here during the war.” This resulted in clandestine, oftentimes vicious, violence that blurred the line between friend and foe, according to research Wing has conducted. “The war out here was particularly cutthroat. It wasn’t always troops on a battlefield wearing different colored Tom Wing uniforms,” he said. “You didn’t know who the enemies were. You might get shot in the back, and you wouldn’t know who shot you. It was a really violent time in that regard.” Wing will also discuss a conflict occurring in 1862 between Union and Confederate troops, when the Union occupied Van Buren and skirmished with troops in Confederate-occupied Fort Smith. “They were firing at each other from across the river,” he said. “It’s a rich story, and it’s not what people expect,” Wing added. “People think this was totally Confederate territory, but there was a lot of proUnion sentiment here.” Wing was a park ranger and historian for the National Park Service at the Fort Smith National Historic Site for eight years before he came to UAFS in August 2004 to teach in the new bachelor's degree program in history/historical interpretation. He served as chair of the West Central Arkansas War Heritage Trail and was appointed by the Arkansas Secretary of State to serve on the advisory team for the Bicentennial of the Louisiana Purchase. Wing also served two terms on the board of the Arkansas Historical Association. UAFS acquired the Drennen-Scott home and acreage in 2005 and received several grants to restore the property and house, which dates back to the 1800s. John Drennen was a founder of Van Buren, politician, Indian agent, landowner and businessman. The Drennen-Scott Historic Site, which opened to the public in May 2011, now serves as a museum and educational facility. Seating is limited for the popular Crawford County Chronicles talks. For reservations, contact Wing at 479-262-2750 or by e-mail at tom.wing@uafs.edu. The talk will be held at the classroom of the Drennen-Scott Historic Site, 221 North 3rd Street, Van Buren. Limited parking is available at the adjacent Visitor Center. Parking also is available at the Crawford County Courthouse, two blocks away.

The Drennen-Scott House survived shelling and fires that damaged the town during Civil War conflicts. Photo by Dr. Henry Rinne

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Director Diane Fagann (far left) with alu alumni of Webster Webster University. Univer

Webster Webster University educates professionals in the Fort Smith area through our accredited master’ ’s degree degre programs. Classes are taught by academically qualified faculty who are practitioners master’s practitioners in their fields. TThe classes are the right size s for learning and the perfect place for networking. er.edu/fortsmith! Apply today at webster.edu/fortsmith!

Programs available: • Master of Business Administration (MBA) • Master of Arts: Human Resources Management No GRE/GMATT • Classess meet one night nigh a week Webster University, founded in 1915 with itss home campus based in St. Louis Louis,, Missour Missouri,i, USA, is the only Tier 1, private, nonprofit universityy with campus locations araround ound the wor worldld including metropolitan, military, online and corporate, as well as Amer American-style ican-style trtraditional aditional campuses in North America, Europe and Asia.

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Be a part of what’s next. 8/20 8/20/13 0/13 13 12:29 12:29 PM PM

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MUSIC

Oct. 3-6, 10-13 4,000 Miles Theatre Squared presents this 2013 Pulitzer Prize finalist play by Amy Herzog. After a disastrous coast-to-coast bike ride, 21-year-old college dropout Leo arrives at the Greenwich Village apartment of his 91-year-old, communist grandmother. Over a month’s time, the unlikely roommates find each other infuriating and bewildering – but ultimately discover unexpected kinship in this humorous and critically acclaimed portrayal of two outsiders finding their way in today’s world. Tickets $22 to $36. A limited number of $10 tickets are also available for patrons under the age of 30 through the theater’s “30 Under 30” program. 7:30 p.m.; 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Oct. 6 and 13. Theatre Squared, 505 West Spring Street, Fayetteville, Ark. 479-443-5600 theatre2.org

& performance

Chris Young Oct. 3 Cox Communication Concert: Chris Young with Backroad Anthem Country artists Chris Young and the group Backroad Anthem will perform at a free concert given by Cox Communications. Young is touring behind his single “Tomorrow” from the album “Neon.” Tickets must be presented and are available at Cox offices in Fort Smith and Van Buren. 6:30 p.m. Fort Smith Riverpark, 121 Riverfront Drive, Fort Smith.

Gregg Rolie

From Santana to Journey to the Hall of Fame Oct. 11 A vocalist, keyboard player, producer, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Gregg Rolie’s career ignited when he and Carlos Santana founded Santana. The group skyrocketed into fame when it performed at Woodstock and released its debut album just weeks later. Rolie’s lead vocals highlighted the hits “Black Magic Woman,” “Evil Ways” and “Oye Como Va.” After parting ways with Santana following the group’s fourth album, he established Journey in 1972 with a fellow ex-Santana mate, guitarist Neal Schon. Journey delivered a unique jazz-rock blend that spotlighted solo instrumental work more than vocals. In addition to lending his vocal and keyboard talents to Journey, Rolie co-wrote and co-produced the band’s first seven albums. He credits the Journey era with honing his songwriting skills, heard in his solo albums. Rolie performs his greatest music and reminisces onstage about his time with both bands in an intimate evening at Second Street Live’s casual setting. Texas blues guitarist Alan Haynes joins Rolie. A UAFS Season at Second Street series show. Tickets $27. 7:30 p.m. Second Street Live, 101 North 2nd Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-7300 uafs.universitytickets.com 44 Entertainment Fort Smith October 2013

ZZ Top Oct. 4 ZZ Top “That Little Ol’ Band From Texas” – Billy F. Gibbons, Dusty Hill and Frank Beard – need no introduction. Tickets $37-$77 available by phone or online. Gates open 6 p.m. The AMP, 2536 North McConnell Avenue, Fayetteville, Ark. 479-443-5600 amptickets.com Oct. 4 Concert In The Park Enjoy free live music with the sounds of Desirae Souverville with Jason Amerson and Mike Walker, singer/songwriter. Free. 7 p.m. Blanche Moore Park, 700 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-471-8112 vanburen.org

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MUSIC & PERFORMANCE

Grits & Glamour Oct. 5 Lorrie Morgan and Pam Tilles Two of the most popular female country music artists, Pam Tilles and Lorrie Morgan, come together for their fun “Grits and Glamour Tour.” Both are daughters of Nashville greats who created their own fame. Tilles is the daughter of Mel Tilles and Lorrie Morgan’s father was singer George Morgan. $30-$40. 8 p.m. Van Buren Fine Arts Center, 2001 Pointer Trail, Van Buren, Ark. 479-471-4017 centerforfinearts.org Oct. 5 9 to 5 The Musical In this hilarious workplace revenge fantasy, three coworkers cook up a plan to turn the tables on their obnoxious boss. When their plan is foiled, the girls have to figure out how to run the office without anyone noticing the boss has mysteriously disappeared. Based on the 1980 movie, this musical comedy features music and lyrics by Dolly Parton for the title song, “Backwoods Barbie” and “Shine Like the Sun.” Recommended for ages 13 and up. $25-$40. 8 p.m. Alma Performing Arts Center, 103 East Main Street, Alma, Ark. 479-632-2129 almapac.org Oct. 5 Wana Beez Karaoke-style music performed by the Wana Beez. $5. 6 p.m. King Opera House, 427 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-926-0554 vanburen.org Oct. 5 Aaron Neville Aaron Neville One note and you know it is his voice – “Tell It Like It Is,” “Everybody Plays the Fool,” “Don’t Know Much” and “All My Life” plus four platinumcertified albums and numerous Grammy Awards attest to his unique style. The AMP, 2536 North McConnell Avenue, Fayetteville, Ark. 479-443-5600 amptickets.com Oct. 8 Queens of the Stone Age Touring in support of their new album, “…Like Clockwork.” The AMP, 2536 North McConnell Avenue, Fayetteville, Ark. 479-443-5600 amptickets.com October 2013

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MUSIC & PERFORMANCE Oct. 14 UAFS Symphonic Band Concert Under the direction of Dr. Alexandra Zacharella, the UAFS Symphonic Band performs classic wind band repertoire as well as contemporary compositions. Admission $6 or by Season of Entertainment ticket. 7:30 p.m. Fort Smith Convention Center, Rogers Avenue and South 9th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-7300 uafs.universitytickets.com

James Cotton

Oct. 10-12 King Biscuit Blues Festival Helena, Ark.'s 28th annual blues festival with headliners James Cotton, Bobby Rush, Gregg Allman, Robert Cray, Marcia Ball, the Reba Russell Band, David Kimbrough Jr. Band and dozens more is the three-day granddaddy of authentic blues events. Held on the levee of the Mississippi in this tiny Arkansas Delta town, the Biscuit attracts an international audience of blues lovers, historians and players. Besides the action on stage, aspiring performers busk on the streets among the food vendors. It's a short pilgrimage to the legendary crossroads, to Clarksdale, Miss., the Delta Blues Museum and other almost sacred sites in the Delta birthplace of the blues. $40 advance passes are available online ($45 at the gate) for all three days. Music begins at 11 a.m. Oct. 10 and ends at midnight or later Oct. 12. Downtown Helena, Ark. 870-572-5223 kingbiscuitfestival.com. Oct. 10-13 Rebel Theatre: Honk, Jr. Ducks, swans, geese and a very hungry Cat star in Rebel Theatre's production of Honk Jr. Fun for children of all ages, Honk, Jr. is the story of Ugly, an out-of-place duckling who must find his way home after being lured away by the Cat. 7 p.m. Oct. 10 and 12; 2 p.m. Oct. 13. Tickets by phone or at the door. $12 adults; $8 students and senior citizens. Children under 5 free. 7 p.m. Southside High School Auditorium, 4100 Gary Street, Fort Smith. 479-646-1179 Oct. 13 McDonald Music Series: Casey Cantwell The McDonald Music Series begins its 2013-2014 season. A program of sacred and secular music will be performed by Casey Cantwell, organist and director of Music for Trinity Episcopal Church in Tulsa, Okla. He is also the artistic director of the Tulsa Boy Singers, the oldest choral organization in Oklahoma. As a concert organist, Cantwell has performed in Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Arkansas, Colorado, Illinois, Tennessee, New York and New Mexico. In 1996, he traveled to Italy where he played in Florence, Assisi and Rome including the Sunday High Mass at St. Casey Cantwell Peter's Basilica in the Vatican. Admission to all McDonald Series concerts is free. 3 p.m. First Presbyterian Church, 116 North 12th Street, Fort Smith. 479-783-4350 46

Entertainment Fort Smith

October 2013

Oct. 17-19; 21-22 Lend Me a Tenor: Theatre@UAFS Lend Me a Tenor, a Tony Award-winning comedy by Ken Ludwig, concerns the mishaps when a renowned operatic tenor receives a double dose of tranquilizers before he is to go onstage to perform to a sellout audience. Two student casts perform the show. Part of Season of Entertainment 33. For ages 13 and older due to brief language and sensuality. Admission by season ticket or $6. 7:30 p.m. UAFS Breedlove Auditorium, 5210 Grand Avenue, Fort Smith. UAFS Box Office 479-788-7300 uafs.universitytickets.com Oct. 17-19 Yonder Mountain String Band's Harvest Festival The Yonder Mountain String Band rounds up some of the biggest names in bluegrass, folk and Americana, an array of lauded singer-songwriters and standout festival-circuit favorites including Tedeschi Trucks Band, Les Claypool's Duo de Twang, Railroad Earth, Beats Antique, JJ Grey & MOFRO, Kacey Musgraves and Justin Townes Earle. Tickets available online. Prices vary. 8 a.m.midnight. Mulberry Mountain, 4117 Mulberry Mountain Loop, Ozark, Ark. 785-749-3434 yonderharvestfestival.com Oct. 18-20 Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Based on the Academy Award-winning animated feature, this classic musical love story is filled with unforgettable characters, lavish sets and costumes, and dazzling production numbers including “Be Our Guest” and the beloved title song. Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, meets the Beast, a young prince trapped in a spell placed by an enchantress. Tickets $3973. Five performances, evening and matinee. Walton Arts Center, 495 West Dickson Street, Fayetteville, Ark. 479-785-5600 Beauty & the Beast waltonartscenter.org Oct. 19 Country Legends featuring Bill Anderson, Jeannie Seely, Jim Ed Brown and Helen Cornelius A celebration of classic country music. Anderson has reached No. 1 on the country charts seven times. Seely is a Grand Ole Opry star who is best known for her 1966 Grammy award-winning hit, "Don't Touch Me." Jim Ed Brown achieved fame in the 1950s and had a successful solo career of duet hits with Helen Cornelius. $35-$45. 7:30 p.m. Alma Performing Arts Center, 103 East Main Street, Alma, Ark. 479-632-2129 almapac.org

Oct. 26 In Concert: Ernie Haase and the Signature Sound One of the most popular Southern gospel quartets touring the world, with its roots and heritage in the

Cathedral Quartet and ties to the Gaither Homecoming tradition, Ernie Haase & Signature Sound has released 25 recordings on album and DVD since forming in 2002. $15-$25. 7 p.m. Van Buren Fine Arts Center, 2001 Pointer Trail, Van Buren, Ark. 479-471-4017 centerforfinearts.org

Celtic Thunder Oct. 27 Celtic Thunder Celtic Thunder performs their all-new Mythology concert, a story of the Celtic people, their legends, their culture and their stories. Mythology is Celtic Thunder's most impressive production to date. All six principal singers are featured prominently, from haunting solo numbers such as "Carrickfergus," "The Isle of Inisfree," "Scarlet Ribbons," "Katie," "Carolina Rua" and "Now We Free" to rousing ensembles. Great original tracks were written especially for the show, such as "My Land," the show's powerful finale. Tickets range from $150 for VIP seating (first 10 rows), $100 for orchestra and $50 for mezzanine, available at aetnfoundation.org/boxoffice or by calling 800-662-2386. 5 p.m. Arkansas Best Performing Arts Center, Rogers Avenue and South 9th Street, Fort Smith. aetnfoundation.org/boxoffice Oct. 31 Sing-Along Grease Sing along with John Travolta, Olivia Newton-John and the whole gang in this fully interactive screening of the classic film with on-screen subtitles and props. Dressing up is strongly encouraged! $10. Walton Arts Center, 495 West Dickson Street, Fayetteville, Ark. 479-443-5600 waltonartscenter.org Nov. 1 Audra McDonald Acclaimed performer Audra McDonald talent as an actress and a singer, has earned her five Tonys and two Grammy awards. She has appeared on Broadway in “A Raisin in the Sun” and “Twelfth Night” and starred as Dr. Naomi Bennett on ABC’s “Private Practice.” McDonald has five solo albums and has performed with prominent orchestras, including the Boston, San Francisco, and Chicago Symphonies and the Los Angeles and New York Audra McDonald Philharmonics. She is currently hosting PBS’ Live from the Lincoln Center. program.” Tickets $52-$55, available by phone or online. 7:30 p.m. Arkansas Best Performing Arts Center, Rogers Avenue and South 9th Street, Fort Smith. 479-788-7300 www.uafs.universitytickets.com.

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MUSIC & PERFORMANCE

Brent Giddens

Nov. 2 Brent Giddens as Elvis: Saluting the Troops The stage will be red, white and blue for a fundraiser to support local wounded warriors, presented by the Volunteers for Injured Veterans Association. Brent Giddens, award-winning Elvis Tribute Artist, headlines. The "Lost in the ’50s Tribute Artists," perform the music of Buddy Holly, the Platters, McGuire Sisters, Bill Haley and more. The show also includes a patriotic songs. Purchase ticket by phone at 479-649-8803 or 479-926-1553. $10. 7 p.m. King Opera House, 427 Main Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-649-8803

LIVE

Neumeier’s Rib Room 817 Garrison Avenue, Fort Smith 479-494-7427 ribroom.com 4 Hot Lix 80s Hair Band Tribute

in local venues

Movielounge 7601 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith 479-226-3595 movieloungefsm.com Tuesdays Tom Ware Thursdays Larry B Dance Party 4 Jonathan Karrant w/ Don Bailey Combo 5 Bannister Brothers 11 Jamie Lou 12 John Magness & Grant Pierson Larry Bedell 18 Mark Albertson Trio 25 Gary Hutchsion & John Magness 26 Tabitha Graves and KISR Jetsetter Ball with Got it Covered 31 Don Bailey’s Swingin’ Halloween Party

John Michael Montgomery

Longhorn Saloon 6400 U.S. 71 South, Fort Smith 479-434-2200 longhornsaloonfortsmith.com 4 Jody Booth 5 John Michael Montgomery 11 Matt Caldwell 18 Tragickly White 26 Night of the Killer Costumes/Miss Used

LIVE

Sweet Bay Coffee Co. at the Park 3400 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith 479-785-0685 facebook.com/sweetbaycoffee 4 Brandon White 5 Odis Elevator 11 Perfect Space 12 The Damien Irwin Band 18 Matt Dodd 19 Zach Stegall 25 Brandon White 26 The Wild Cards

Webby D’s 509 Garrison Avenue, Fort Smith 479-494-7427 facebook.com/Webby-Ds 18 Captain Nowhere Record Release Party

October 2013

Entertainment Fort Smith

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KIDS CALENDAR

Oct. 1 Science Club Don’t be shocked! Children will investigate static electricity with Chris Dickens from UAMS. Free. 4-5 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140

So what if my kid’s not a team player?

hen my son was an infant, I always imagined myself becoming a soccer mom. Isn’t that what we’re taught to expect? You buy a van, you buy some tiny cleats and, next thing you know, you’re driving a whole gaggle of kids, planning snacks and cheering at the sidelines. I’m not much of a sports person, but I was OK with that. That’s normal. It’s what happens. But then my son grew up and decided he hated team sports. No one prepares you for that. We tried T-ball. (He was too bored.) We tried karate, which went great until he got old enough to start sparring. (“Mom, everyone always teaches us not to fight or hurt people. This just feels too weird.”) We tried golf. (Too hot and too much walking – is that even a thing?) And we tried art, (which he loved until he discovered he was taught to draw trees and snowmen, not skulls, flames and Minecraft characters). I offered to enroll him in everything I could possibly think of. Don’t most kids jump at the chance to participate in extracurricular activities? Isn’t that the whole point of packed schedules and frazzled parents? What was I doing wrong? My son is now a third-grader and has tons of friends and interests. He’ll throw a football, hit a baseball around and pogo stick like nobody’s business. But mention the word “team” and he shrinks into his shell like a turtle. One night recently at dinner, I asked him if there was any sport or activity he could think of that he’d like to join. His response? “Well, it would be nice if we could just form a book club.” My husband’s expression in response was priceless. But after thinking it over, I understood. I like to dictate how I spend my time. If I want to read, or draw, or exercise, I want it to be on my schedule. I don’t want anyone watching, critiquing or the weight of a team on my shoulders. Maybe kids are like that sometimes, too. After noticing that my son was becoming an excellent swimmer, my husband and I casually suggested dropping in and watching the Tideriders one afternoon. He was hesitant, but agreed to go and watch with no obligation. After seeing that it was nothing but a bunch of boys his age swimming and having fun – no being yelled at, no pressure to perform and a pretty loose schedule – he was excited to join the team. Right now, the Tideriders is working for us. But deep down I know there is a good chance he will decide it’s “too wet” or “too hot” or “too splashy.” And when that day comes, we will take a break until he wants to try something new. So when you’re wondering why I’m home every Saturday morning, why my car is free of cleats and gear and why I’m not stocking up on juice boxes, it’s because I am not a soccer mom. I’m the mom of a sometimes artist, sometimes swimmer, temporary karate master and a darn good pogo sticker. And ain’t nothing wrong with that. We have invited guest writers to share their parenting experiences. Guest Writer Kristan Roland

Entertainment Fort Smith

October 2013

Oct. 1, 15, 22, 29 Baby & Me Story Time in Van Buren Using music, finger plays, bouncing rhymes and board books, a librarian creates a fun introduction to story time for newborn babies to children under 3 years old. The 20-minute story time is followed by free play with toys and books. Free. 10:30-11 a.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 Oct. 2 Alma Library Halloween Movie This 2012 PG-13 movie is about vampire Barnabas Collins, played by Johnny Depp, as he returns home to Collinwood Manor after being entombed for 200 years. Free. 10-11 a.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 Oct. 2-23 Van Buren Library Preschool Story Time The story time themes include the postman, spiders, the color orange and pumpkins. Snack and craft provided. 9:30-10:30 a.m. and 11 a.m.-noon. Free. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 Oct. 2-30 Alma Library Teen Scene Tweens and teens are invited to play games on the Wii, board games and celebrate Star Wars Read Day. Snacks provided. Free. 4-5 p.m. Wednesdays. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 Oct. 2-30 Cedarville Library Preschool Story Time Enjoy being a prince or princess, learning about apples, turning leaves, spiders and Halloween. Free. 10-11 a.m. Wednesdays. Cedarville Public Library, 737 Pirates Way, Cedarville, Ark. 479-410-1853

Oct. 2-30 Alma Library Preschool Story Time Preschool story time has fall stories, songs and finger plays to celebrate the season. Other topics will be apples, community helpers, adventure on the farm and Halloween. Free. 10-11 a.m. Wednesdays. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 Oct. 3, 10, 17 and 29 Alma Library After-School Program Themes will include Star Wars, Legomania, board games, a monster movie and Halloween. Snacks will be provided. Free. 4 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140

Oct. 3-31 Van Buren Library After-School Activity On Oct. 3, experience the big reveal of the Van Buren Library’s Recycled Arcade made with recycled materials by teens, homeschoolers and others. Other activities this month include Halloween crafts, Bingo for Books, Lego Day and a Halloween party. Free. 3:30-4:30 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045

Oct. 4 Touch-a-Truck Storytime Enjoy stories, activities and fun focused on construction trucks. Afterward, children are invited to the library parking lot to touch a real construction truck. Free. 10 a.m. Miller Branch Library, 8701 South 28th Street, Fort Smith. 479-646-3945 fortsmithlibrary.org Oct. 5 La Hormiga Cuenta Cuentos: A Storytime in Spanish Niños de todas las edades y sus familias estan invitados a la Biblioteca

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KIDS CALENDAR principal a la hora de los cuentos gratis, incluiremos cuentos, historias, canciones, refranes y otras actividades divertidas en español con la cuenta cuentos Angela Hernandez. Ven y aprende acerca de la Biblioteca y lo que tiene para ofrecer a tu familia. Free. 2:30 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org

strings and plastic canvas. Also learn to make other seasonal items such as a candy bowl. All materials are supplied. Space is limited. Book for parties, camps, art lessons and more. $20 per Saturday or $50 for three weeks. 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Cre8ive Arts Network, 7408 Terry Street, Fort Smith. 479-222-6244 or 479-357-9079 ucancre8.org

Oct. 5 Pumpkin Patch Children of all ages can paint their own pumpkin from a pumpkin patch. Pumpkins and paint provided. $5. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. BrickCity Emporium, 3215 South 74th Street, Fort Smith. 479-434-5858

Oct. 10 National Hispanic Heritage Month Fiesta! Play a game of Hispanic Heritage Bingo and make a festive craft. Free. 4 p.m. Windsor Branch Library, 4701 Windsor Drive, Fort Smith. 479-785-0405

Oct. 5 Van Buren Library: Star Wars The library is filled with “the Force,” with a costume contest, Jedi training and special guests. Free. 10-11 a.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045

Oct. 5 Star Wars Reads Day – Crafts Time Fun In a library, not so far away, children and teens can come together to celebrate Star Wars Reads Day. Jedi Knights are encouraged to use the force to create Star Wars crafts. Jabba Juice and Wookiee Cookies provided. Free. 1-3 p.m. Miller Branch Library, 8701 South 28th Street, Fort Smith. 479-646-3945 Oct. 5-19 Cre8ive Hands Fall Craft Class for Children Saturday mornings in October, children ages 8-12 can learn to make beautiful Whirly Swirls using beads,

Oct. 7 Primetime Storytime: Hispanic Heritage Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with songs, stories, crafts and snacks. Free. 6 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org

Oct. 11 School Spirit Craft Tweens and teens are invited to get in the school spirit and decorate a megaphone or a T-shirt. Refreshments provided. Free. 3:30-4:30 p.m. Cedarville Public Library, 737 Pirates Way, Cedarville, Ark. 479-410-1853

Oct. 12 Old Fort Days Dandies Try-outs Girls ages 12-19 in high school or college may audition for the Old Fort Days Dandies. Candidates must provide their own horse, a current Coggins, a copy of their birth certificate, school transcript and a parent or legal guardian if under the age of 18. College students

must bring of copy of a current schedule along with previous grades. 10 a.m. Kay Rodgers Park, Harper Stadium, 4400 Midland Boulevard, Fort Smith. 479-651-8322 oldfortdaysdandies.com Oct. 13 UAFS Academy of the Arts Children's Choir Fall Concert: Disney Dazzle! More than 100 children grades 3-6 from around the region come together for this wonderful performance of Disney's children's songs from "Be Our Guest" to "A Whole New World" to "Under the Sea" and "A Friend Like Me" and many others. Free. 3-4 p.m. East Side Baptist Church, 2710 Massard Road, Fort Smith. 479-788-7253 uafs.edu/academy

Oct. 14 Teen Read Week: R.L. Stine Writing Class Learn the best writing tricks and secrets through R.L. Stine’s young adult writing program. Discover fun ways to get story ideas and what to do when you can’t think of anything to write. Get over anxiety about writing and unleash your talent. There are no grades, no exams, no wrong answers – just creative writing. The class will be taught by award-winning journalist Candise Montemayor. For ages 10-17. Registration is required. Free. 5:30 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-783-0229 Oct. 14-17 Van Buren Library Teen Read Week Activities for tweens and teens include games, edible books, blind dates, jewelry/key ring craft, snacks and more. Free. 3:30-4:30 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045

STAGE

Order Your Tickets Now!

Disney’s D i s n e y ’ s Aladdin A l a d d i n Kids Kids Academy Kidz Production October 26 – 2 pm • UAFS at Second Street

(479) 788-7300 • uafs.edu/on-stage • boxoffice@uafs.edu October 2013

Entertainment Fort Smith

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KIDS CALENDAR

Oct. 14-18 Teen Read Week Celebrate with crafts, competitions and T-shirt decorating. Refreshments provided. Free. 4-5 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140

Oct. 15 Teen Read Week: N’Quad Book Club Seek the Unknown at Your Library by joining the first N’Quad Book Club meeting during Teen Read Week. For all ages that are not quite adults. Free. 4 p.m. Windsor Branch Library, 4701 Windsor Drive, Fort Smith. 479-785-0405

Oct. 15 Teen Read Week: Beautiful Creatures When newcomer Lena arrives in the small town of Gatlin, she captures the attention of Ethan, who only wants to escape what he views as a dead end town. Lena and Ethan are drawn together, but their budding romance is threatened by the dangers posed by Lena's strange powers. Rated PG-13. Free. 6:30 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org Oct. 17 Seek the Unknown: Teen Read Week Scavenger Hunt Teens and tweens are invited to seek the unknown by participating in a scavenger hunt using library resources. Free. 4 p.m. Windsor Branch Library, 4701 Windsor Drive, Fort Smith. 479-785-0405

Oct. 17 Tween & Teen Book Lover’s Club with Author Quinn Loftis Young adult author Quinn Loftis joins the discussion in this book club for kids ages 9-17. Loftis is the author of eight novels in the "Grey Wolves" series, including the USA Today best-seller, "Fate and Fury." Her books will be available for sale and signing. Snacks provided. Free. 4 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-783-0229

Oct. 17 Mulberry Library Edible Books Take-Out Project For tweens and teens, a make-it and take-it craft program to celebrate Teen Read Week. Pick up a take-out project kit at the circulation desk. Free. 3:30-4:30 p.m. Mulberry Public Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226

Oct. 18 Children’s Art Club Lines. Lines. Lines. Lines are the basic element in drawing. Children will study the use of lines using pencils and sharpies. Free. 4-5 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140

Oct. 19 Super Hero Day at Chick-fil-A Enjoy favorite super heroes and local heroes, too. Lots of surprises are in store. Take a camera to catch all the memorable moments. Free admission; meal not included. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Chick-fil-A, 6810 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-484-5152 Oct. 19 Teen Read Week Movie – Beastly Based on the book by Alex Flinn, this modern-day take 50 Entertainment Fort Smith October 2013

on "Beauty and the Beast" tells the story of a New York teen who is transformed into a hideous monster in order to find true love. Popcorn will be served. Free. 1 p.m. Miller Branch Library, 8701 South 28th Street, Fort Smith. 479-646-3945 fortsmithlibrary.org

Oct. 21 Laptime Storytime A love of reading starts early. Babies and their caregivers are invited to a storytime geared toward children birth to 24 months old. There will be rhymes, songs, simple stories, and lots of interactive fun. The storytime will last about 20 minutes with time for casual interaction following the program. Free. 10:30 a.m. Miller Branch Library, 8701 South 28th Street, Fort Smith. 479-646-3945 fortsmithlibrary.org Oct. 20 Veggie Tales Live! “Happy Birthday Bob & Larry” is the story of this Veggie Tales stage performance, which benefits Hannah House of Fort Smith. VIP tickets include early admission and after-show meet and greet with the characters and cast. $30 advance adult VIP, $35 day of show; $20 advance general admission, $25 day of show; $15 children 5 and older; children 1 and younger free when sitting on the lap of an adult. 2 p.m. Arkansas Best Performing Arts Center, Rogers Avenue and South 9th Street, Fort Smith. 800-965-9324

Oct. 22 UAFS Academy of the Arts Xtreme Teenz Presents Annie Get Your Gun This popular musical is based on the life of Annie Oakely, a sharpshooter who starred in Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show, and her romance with sharpshooter Frank Butler. Extreme Teens is a theater company for grades 6-12. The talented students present smallscale theater productions at a variety of venues, including public schools, and performances featured on the Show Time Series at UA-Fort Smith. Free. 6 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-783-0229

Oct. 24 Halloween Movie Night: Frankenweenie From Disney and creative genius Tim Burton comes the hilarious and offbeat “Frankenweenie,” a heartwarming tale about a boy and his dog. After unexpectedly losing his beloved dog Sparky, young Victor harnesses the power of science to bring his best friend back to life – with just a few minor adjustments. He tries to hide his home-sewn creation, but when Sparky gets out, Victor's fellow students, teachers and the entire town learn that getting a new “leash on life” can be monstrous. Take refreshments or buy treats at Dewey’s Café. Free. 6 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-783-0229

Oct. 24 Cedarville Library Children's Craft Do you like your monsters hairy and scary or just plain gross? Kids can make paper bag monsters and enjoy creepy treats. Free. 3:30-4:30 p.m. Cedarville Public Library, 737 Pirates Way, Cedarville, Ark. 479-410-1853

Oct. 24 Mulberry Library Geocaching Unlock the exclusive coordinates and detailed hidden geocache containers in the community. Join the search for Geocaches. Free. 3:30-4:30 p.m. Mulberry

Public Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226 Oct. 24 Halloween Party A library Halloween Party at the City Park has a costume contest, balloon lady, games, prizes, candy, nachos and more. If the weather turns wet, the party will move to the library. Free. 3:30-5:30 p.m. Mountainburg Public Library, 1300 U.S. 71 North, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-1600

Oct. 25 Cedarville Library Movie Time Welcome to Hotel Transylvania, Dracula’s lavish fivestake resort, where monsters and their families can live it up free without meddling from the human world. Free. 3:30-4:30 p.m. Cedarville Public Library, 737 Pirates Way, Cedarville, Ark. 479-410-1853 Oct. 26 Halloween On Main Street The Van Buren Old Town Merchants Association welcomes trick-or-treaters to its annual Halloween on Main Street. Costumed kids can collect candy, ride a kiddie train, compete in costume contests and more. It's a fun and safe. Free. 6-8 p.m. Historic Main Street, Historic Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-410-3026 Oct. 26 BrickCity Halloween Costume Contest Kids 12 and under are welcome to participate. Special prizes for top contestants. Free. 1-3 p.m. BrickCity Emporium, 3215 South 74th Street, Fort Smith. 479-434-5858 brickcityemporium.com

Oct. 26 Haunt the Mall Costume Contest Contest is divided into four age divisions and three categories: scary, pretty and original. Winners in each category and each age division will receive a $50 retailer gift card for first place and a $25 retailer gift card for second. Register online by Oct. 25; all entrants must check in by 5:30 p.m. Oct. 26 to pick up a number. Free. 6-8 p.m. Central Mall, 5111 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-452-4706 centralmallfortsmith.com Oct. 26 UAFS Academy of the Arts: Disney's Aladdin Join Aladdin as he embarks on an adventure through Agrabah telling the tale of how he transformed from a street rat to a prince. Hit songs include "A Whole New World" and "Friend Like Me." Day events are available to schools and groups. $6 adults; $5 children 10 and under. 2-3 p.m. UAFS at Second Street Live, 101 North 2nd Street, Fort Smith. 479-788-7300 uafs.edu/on-stage

Oct. 26 Mall-O-Ween Play carnival-type games and help local nonprofits at the same time. Participating organizations are selling $5 armbands for unlimited play or you may purchase the day of the event. All proceeds of armband sales benefit participating organizations, including: Donald W. Reynolds Crisis Intervention Center, face painting and bean bag toss; Fountain of Youth Adult Day Center, plinko; Cub Scouts Troop 4031, ring toss; Heart to Heart Pregnancy Support Center, witch hat ring toss; Good Samaritan Clinic, bowling; The Arc for the River Valley, bean bag toss; Kisses From Kenady, Inc., face cut-out photos; The Gregory Kistler Treatment

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KIDS CALENDAR

Center Inc., pumpkin bowling; The First Tee of Fort Smith, golf; ACA Kids Club, ping pong ball toss. $5 armbands. 1-6 p.m. Central Mall, 5111 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-452-4706 Oct. 27 Trunk-or-Treat Grace Community Church hosts a trunk-or-treat carnival with bounce-arounds, games and a dunking booth. Youth will be selling pizza, nachos and drinks. Weather permitting. Free. 5-7 p.m. Grace Community Church, 4001 Brooken Hill Drive, Fort Smith. 479-646-1177 gracefs.com/trunkortreat Oct. 29 Bingo for Books: Halloween Edition Play bingo and earn books as the prize. Winners will be able to select a book from a selection of children’s and teen titles. Free. 6 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-783-0229

3:30-4:30 p.m. Mulberry Public Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226

Oct. 31 Trick or Treat at Central Mall Trick or treat participating retailers. Kids 3 to 13 with parent or guardian will start at Center Court. No adults with face masks please. 5-7 p.m. Central Mall, 5111 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-452-4706

Oct. 31 Whodunnit? Murder in the Library Someone has committed murder in the library – someone at the library isn't who they say they are. It’s up to you to find out who by using library books and resources for clues. Free. 4 p.m. Windsor Branch Library, 4701 Windsor Drive, Fort Smith. 479-785-0405

Nov. 4 Diary of a Worm It's not easy being a bug, especially on the first day of school. But luckily for Worrying Worm, Fearless Fly, and Sassy Spider, every creature finds its special talent in “Diary of a Worm, a Spider, and a Fly.” Spider waits anxiously to shed his skin; Worm feels self-conscious and embarrassed for having no legs, and Fly's 327 brothers and sisters drive her so crazy that she can hardly focus. Based on the bestselling book series by Doreen Cronin and Harry Bliss, this hysterical musical for kids will have everyone cheering on the quirky crawlers as they face problems and milestones common to us all. Tickets, $15 adults; $10 for children 12 and under, available by phone. 9:30 a.m. Alma Performing Arts Center, 103 East Main, Alma, Ark. 479-632-2129 almapac.org

Oct. 29 Nighttime Story Time Take a blanket or a lawn chair for a not-so-scary outside story time for kids preschool age and up. Meet at the front entrance of the Miller Branch at 6:30 p.m. and then walk around to the back to hear Halloween tales and eat delicious snacks. Free. 6:30 p.m. Miller Branch Library, 8701 South 28th Street, Fort Smith. 479-646-3945 Oct. 30 Super Hero Day: Jump, Zoom, Fly! Dress as a superhero and save the day at this special story time for preschool children. Free. 10:30 a.m. Dallas Branch Library, 8100 Dallas Street, Fort Smith. 479-484-5650 fortsmithlibrary.org

Oct. 30 Trunk-or-Treat A safe Halloween event presented by Harvest Time and Cavanaugh Baptist. Kids can enjoy inflatables, candy cars, games and more. Free. 6-8 p.m. Harvest Time, 3100 Briar Cliff Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-646-6001 harvesttime.net Oct. 31 Minion Madness There will be trick-or-treating in the children’s building, a Minion costume contest with a $100 grand prize, games, inflatables and a dunk tank. Free. 6-8 p.m. Grand Avenue Baptist Church, 3900 Grand Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-783-5161 grandfamily.net

Oct. 31 Evangle Temple Fall Festival This event is a safe alternative to trick-or-treating. Community-wide event includes candy, bouncearounds and carnival games. Fun for the entire family. Free. 6-8 p.m. Evangel Temple, Towson and Dodson Avenues, Fort Smith. 479-782-9121 excitinget.com Oct. 31 Wesley UMC Halloween Carnival Enjoy a safe Halloween carnival for kids. Free food, games, prizes and lots of candy. Free. 6-8 p.m. Wesley United Methodist Church, 2200 Phoenix Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-646-9702

Oct. 31 Mulberry Library Wii Games Wii games and refreshments for ages 13 and up. Free. October 2013

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Oct. 1 Van Buren High School Choir Concert The Van Buren High School Choir will show off its talented singers. Free. 7 p.m. Van Buren Fine Arts Center, 2001 Pointer Trail, Van Buren, Ark. 479-471-4017 centerforfinearts.org

Oct. 1-11 The First Tee of Fort Smith Mum Sale Purchase a voucher that will allow you to choose your own plants at Sharum’s Garden Center, 10000 U.S. 71 South, Fort Smith. Colors may include white, bronze, purple and red. $15. The First Tee of Fort Smith, 5800 Geren Road, Fort Smith. 479-648-9833

Oct. 1-22 Discover Japan Get a taste of what it is like to travel in Japan. Celebrate the Japanese style in language, food, travel, film, fashion and culture. Learn basic phrases to start venturing out on your own and find the real Japan. $50; $45 partner pricing. 6 p.m. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5318 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-7887220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning

Entrance to the Nyberg Building, which could house more than 500 tuberculosis patients.

Oct. 1-27 Call for Authors Local authors will be given 10-15 minutes to talk about themselves and their works. A table will be provided to each author to display, sell and autograph their works. Registration packets must be received no later than Oct. 23. Free. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 Oct. 1-28 Welcome Neighbor Women’s Book Club This book club open to all women will have a review of “Holy Ghost Girl” by Donna M. Johnson. Free. 12:30-1:30 p.m. Dewey’s Cafe, Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-638-1603 welcomeneighborftsmith.com

The Nyberg Building in the early 1940s.

Architectural detail on sanatorium building.

Tuberculosis Sanatorium Historic District Guided Tour As the largest historic district in the state of Arkansas, the Arkansas Tuberculosis Sanitorium, opened in 1910, has a long history. Many buildings date back to the late 1930s and are examples of several architectural styles. The guided tour visits six buildings on the campus and ends at the Sanatorium Museum. By the time the facility was closed in 1973, more than 70,000 patients had been treated. The Nyberg Building, completed in 1941, is 528 feet long and five stories tall with a full basement and housed 511 patients. The facility became known worldwide for tuberculosis treatment as it was one of the most modern and successful facilities of the day. Besides the Nyberg Building, the facility had many structures, including dormitories, staff entertainment buildings, a chapel, a laundry, water treatment plant and even a fire department. The complex was self-sustaining, housing nearly 300 staff members at the height of its use, and the total population of the center at the time was greater than that of Booneville in the valley below. On Feb. 26, 1973, the last seven patients were discharged, and on June 30, 1973, the Arkansas State Tuberculosis Sanatorium officially closed, and the main gates were left unlocked for the first time in more than 60 years. This guided tour visits six buildings on the campus and ends at the Sanatorium Museum. No rain date; take an umbrella. Free. 9-11:30 a.m. Arkansas Tuberculosis Sanatorium (BHDC), 87 Reed Road, Booneville, Ark. 479-675-5009 artbmuseum.com

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Oct. 1-29 Square Dance Lessons Learn square dancing or get back into the fun. Newcomers accepted until Oct. 23 and lessons continue for about four months. Sponsored by the Skokos Promenaders Square Dance Club. Jay King is the caller/instructor. $5 per couple per night. 6:30-7:45 p.m. Tuesdays. Kibler United Methodist Church Skokos Center, 19 East Kibler Hwy., Alma, Ark. 479-474-8500

Oct. 1-31 Jim Anderson Photography Exhibit Photographer Jim Anderson is a schoolteacher and a photographer of the natural landscape. He has traveled and photographed in all 50 states, always looking for natural settings and natural lighting. His awardwinning photographs can be seen in local banks and law offices, as well as at exhibits in several state parks in Arkansas and Oklahoma. Free. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-7830229 fortsmithlibrary.org Oct. 1-31 Michael Leonard Photography Exhibit The award-winning photographer Michael Leonard will show both his innovative black-and-white infrared photography and color work. Free. Dewey’s Cafe at the Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org

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Oct. 1-Nov. 30 Call for Art Works: Portraits of Hope Invitational What does hope look like? The Fort Smith Regional Art Museum is partnering with the Ozark Affiliate of Susan G. Komen, the national organization for breast cancer awareness. Artists are invited to share their vision of hope and make a positive impact in their community through creativity. The invitational is open to artists of all ages, backgrounds and artistic ability. Submissions can be any media and all works will be part of a silent auction that will take place from 5-7 p.m. Oct. 24. Works will be on view at RAM through November. Proceeds from sales will benefit the Ozark Affiliate of Susan G. Komen and RAM’s educational programs. Deadline for delivery of submitted artwork is Oct. 13 for drop-off and Oct. 14 for mailed work. Free. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Fort Smith Regional Art Museum, 1601 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-784-2787 fsram.org Oct. 2 Girls Shelter Night at Goody’s Frozen Yogurt Enjoy a treat while supporting the Girls Shelter. Goody’s makes a donation for every purchase made. 4-10 p.m. Goody’s Frozen Yogurt, 7613 Rogers, Fort Smith. 479-646-0444

Oct. 2 Seminar: Introduction to QuickBooks The Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center gives a hands-on seminar introducing QuickBooks to small business owners and employees with little or no experience. Topics include setting up a new company, working with lists, customers, vendors, assets and reconciling accounts. A computer

CALENDAR OF EVENTS will be provided for each participant during this interactive session. Call or go online to register. $65. 1-4 p.m. Beall Barclay & Co., 3101 South 70th Street, Fort Smith. 479-356-2067 asbtdc.ualr.edu/training/russellville.asp Oct. 2 Funeral Planning Learn the steps to planning a funeral to avoid purchasing a plan in a crisis. $7. 1 p.m. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5318 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning

Oct. 2, 9 Control Logix 5000 Series Troubleshooting Two-session class focuses on troubleshooting an existing Rockwell Automation RS Logix 5000 program. Topics include the modification of timers, counters and address changes. Registration required. $249. 48 p.m. UAFS Echols Building, Room 203, 504 North Waldron Road at UAFS, Fort Smith. 479-788-7742 uafs.edu

Oct. 2-14 Digital Literacy Learn the basics of using a computer. The class covers terminology, using the mouse and introduces some common programs used on a computer. Free. 5-7:55 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays. Fort Smith Adult Education Center, 501 South 20th Street, Fort Smith. 479-648-3535 adulteducationfortsmith.org Oct. 2, 9 Intermediate Microsoft Excel 2010 Learn to incorporate graphics into spreadsheets, work

with multiple workbooks, utilize tables, use higherlevel formulas and more. Completion of an introductory level Microsoft Excel class is recommended. Registration is required. $129. 8 a.m.-noon. UAFS BII Building, Room 115, North 50th Street and Grand Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7742 uafs.edu Oct. 2-14 Basic QuickBooks Pro Learn to manage the accounting of a company using QuickBooks Pro. Hands-on class includes instruction on how to create invoices, pay bills and track customers using QuickBooks. $80, includes textbook and flash drive. 5-7:55 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays. Fort Smith Adult Education Center, 501 South 20th Street, Fort Smith. 479-648-3535 adulteducationfortsmith.org Oct. 2-30 Decorative Acrylic Painting with Linda Learn to use acrylic paints on different surfaces. Paints and surfaces provided. $55. 1-3:30 p.m. Wednesdays. Cre8ive Arts Network, 7408 Terry Street, Historic District of Chaffee, Fort Smith. 479-222-6244 ucancre8.org

Oct. 3 Emotional Intelligence Deep in the brain, a daily struggle occurs between the emotional and intellectual drivers of human behavior. Learn about emotional intelligence and how to better manage your own brainy battle. Registration required. $59. 8-11 a.m. UAFS BII Building, Room 113, North 50th Street and Grand Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7742 uafs.edu

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Artist of the Month: Susan Taylor Award-winning artist Susan Taylor will showcase her watercolor paintings. A native Arkansan, Taylor has more than 40 years of professional art experience and her works have been displayed throughout the United States and Europe. She provided illustrations for the Arkansas State Library’s Summer Reading Program for five years. Her paintings often portray nature. Taylor also designs note cards, which will be on display. Free. Miller Branch Library, 8701 South 28th Street, Fort Smith. 479-646-3945

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Oct. 3-24 Square Dance and Lessons Dance your mind and body fit with great music, a healthy atmosphere and people who know how to laugh. Not your old barn dance. Square dance is the new exercise for fun. The club welcomes those who want to learn to dance and dancers who want to get back into the swing. Enrollment in lessons from 6:30 to 7:30 is open for two weeks. Dance continues until 9 p.m. Casual dress. $2.50; first-time guests, free. 6:30-9 p.m. Hug Chevrolet Showroom (park in back), 407 East Main Street, Charleston, Ark. 918-962-9427, 479-639-0019

Oct. 3-Nov. 21 ASL II American Sign Language is the language of deaf Americans. ASL II, offering advanced training and understanding of deaf culture, is open to those who have taken ASL I. $109 includes textbook; $89 without textbook. 6 p.m. Thursdays. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5318 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning Oct. 4 Girls Shelter Pasta Dinner and Silent Auction Enjoy an evening of pasta, salad and dessert while shopping at a silent auction. $10 adults, $5 students. 5-7:30 p.m. Westark Church of Christ Family Life Building, 900 North Waldron, Fort Smith. 479-646-0444

Oct. 4 Dervish Dance A fun dance featuring an array of music oriented toward ballroom, Latin, swing and polka dancers. A local DJ will provide the music. Attire is a relaxed dressy casual. $5 per dancer 7-10 p.m. Eagles Ballroom, 3321 South 66th Street, Fort Smith. 479-484-7156 Oct. 4, 18 Crochet and Knitting Class in Van Buren Learning to crochet or knit. Call or ask at the circulation desk for a supply list. 10 a.m.-noon. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 crawfordcountylib.org

Oct. 4-5 2013 Tablerama: A Table Setting Tea View unique table settings of family heirlooms and antiques. Many ideas and themes will be presented to inspire your own table decorating. Homemade refreshments will be served. Proceeds benefit the Presbyterian Women’s mission work at the local, state and national level. Noon-6 p.m. Oct 4; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Oct 5. $5. First Presbyterian Church, 212 North College Avenue, Clarksville, Ark. 479-754-2942 firstpresclarksville.org Oct. 4-5 Olde Miners Fall Festival Huntington’s fall festival will offer arts and crafts, live entertainment, food vendors, raffle items and many surprises. Benefits the community center building fund. Free. 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Broadway Street, downtown Huntington, Ark. 479-928-0245 huntingtonarkansas.com Oct. 4-25 Drawing Class Learn basic to advanced drawing skills, starting with graphite and experimenting with colored pencils, wa54

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS tercolor pencils, pen and ink more. Students should supply their own sketch pad and supplies. Registration required. Contact Karen Brannon. $10 per class. 10 a.m.-noon Fridays. Cre8ive Arts Network, Fort Chaffee Historic District, 7408 Terry Street, Fort Smith. 479-674-5836

Oct. 5 Reptile Mania! Snake enthusiasts Brad Birchfield and Jeremy Sloan present live reptiles from their extensive collection of native venomous and non-venomous snakes and a rescued juvenile alligator. They address facts and myths about snakes and conservation efforts in Arkansas. Free. 1-3 p.m. Lake Fort Smith State Park, 15458 Shepherd Springs Road, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-2469 arkansasstateparks.com/lakefortsmith

Oct. 5 Cooking: Sweet Southern Desserts Learn a few quick desserts that have homestyle taste but are made with easy-to-find ingredients. Get handson in the kitchen with a couple of pies and a tart or two, including sugar-free dessert. Fee includes materials. $55. 9 a.m. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5318 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning

Oct. 5 First Saturday Fall Plant Sale The Master Gardeners offer trees and shrubs. Fall is the preferred time to plant shrubs and trees, giving them time to develop roots in cooler weather. Master Gardeners will be present to answer gardening questions and give a tour of all of the demonstration gardens. Learning and refreshments will be provided. To find the Learning Fields, go east on Arkansas 22 under the I-49 overpass and over the railroad tracks. Take the first right (Mahogany) after the tracks. Continue down Mahogany and turn third right (Tuscany) and arrive at the Learning Fields. Free. 9 a.m.-noon. The Learning Fields at Chaffee Crossing, 7300 Gardeners Avenue, Fort Smith. 479 285-0148 thelearningfields.net

Oct. 5 Color Me For Kids 5K Color Me for Kids 5K is not about a 10-minute/mile pace but more about having the time of your life and supporting Hamilton House. At each kilometer, participants are doused from head to toe in different colors. The fun continues at the finish line where everyone can participate in a group “throwing of the paint,” using more colored powder to create happiness and lasting memories. $40. 8 a.m. Chaffee Crossing, Ellis and Ward Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-4364 beta.active.com/fort-smith-ar/ running/color-me-for-kids-2013

Oct. 5 Paint the Park Pink A breast cancer Survivor Breakfast and annual onemile family fun walk raises funds for the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Ozark affiliate organization, which spreads the life-saving message of early detection and supports breast cancer screening, treatment and diagnostic programs in the River Valley and Northwest Arkansas. All events are held at the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith campus. The Survivor Breakfast begins at 8 a.m. in the Reynolds Room of the SmithPendergraft Campus Center. Registration for the walk

Comedian and host Doug Shadell

Anthony and Tom Ware

Saving Paws: Fun, Food & Fangs Ahimsa Rescue Foundation, a non-profit established in 2004 to place homeless companion pets in loving homes in eastern Oklahoma and western Arkansas, will host this fourth annual benefit. A live auction will feature a stunning, limited-edition Blue Dog print signed and numbered by George Rodrigue. A silent auction will feature items from local businesses and individuals. Proceeds are earmarked for ARF’s on-going project to transform a former Muldrow nursing home into an animal rescue and adoption facility and complete a much-needed, new receiving center. ARF has placed more than 2,000 animals in carefully screened homes. Guests will “paw”-ty to the music of local singer/songwriter Tom Ware and his son, Anthony Ware. Local funny guy and ARF volunteer Doug Shadell hosts, while alter ego Momma also makes an appearance. Vegan and vegetarian dishes available as well as the soon-to-be-infamous homemade dessert bar. $50 ticket; $500 per table. 6-10 p.m. Riverfront Pavilion, Front Street and North B, Fort Smith. 918-427-7404 ahimsarescuefoundation.org

begins at 8 a.m. The walk will start at 10 a.m. at the Bell Tower and is approximately one mile around the campus. At the finish line are music, vendors and a kids area. Breast cancer survivors and their registered co-survivor will be treated to the Survivors’ breakfast and the first 125 breast cancer survivors will benefit from a paid registration compliments of Sparks Medical Center. Register online or in person at the Komen River Valley office, 1508 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday. $20 adults; $10 youth 12 and under or UAFS students. UAFS Campus Green and Campus Center, 5210 Grand Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-459-1496 komenozark.com

Oct. 5 First Person Portrayal of Deputy Bud Ledbetter Park volunteer Ray Shelley will portray Deputy Marshal Bud Ledbetter. Considered one of the greatest Deputy U.S. Marshals and the fourth member of the “Three Guardsmen,” Ledbetter worked out of the Federal Court for the Western District of Arkansas in Fort Smith. His long career as a law officer deserves note and Shelley brings a wonderful light to his story. Programs will be held in the park’s courtroom and are free. 10-11 a.m. Fort Smith National Historic Site, 301 Parker Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-783-3961 nps.gov/fosm Oct. 5 Fort Smith National Historic Site Grounds Tour: With the Parkers A tour of the park grounds with Judge Isaac and Mary Parker, portrayed by volunteers Floyd and Sue Robi-

son, includes the parade grounds, commissary, garden and the first fort. See the site through the eyes of two of its most famous residents. The tour will begin in the park’s visitor center. Free. Noon-4 p.m. Fort Smith National Historic Site, 301 Parker Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-783-3961 nps.gov/fosm Oct. 5 Bikers for Birdies Poker Run Cash prizes for first, second and last places. There also will be door prizes and a 50/50 raffle. Benefits The First Tee of Fort Smith. Ride begins at Old Fort Harley Davidson and ends at Choctaw Casino, 3400 Choctaw Road, Pocola, Okla. $20 first poker hand; $10 additional hands. 8 a.m. registration; 8:30 a.m. first bike out; 10 a.m. last bike out. Old Fort Harley Davidson, 6304 South 36th Street, Fort Smith. 479-648-9833

Oct. 5 The Girl Next Door Yard Sale Score some great deals and help local women and children who are victims of domestic violence by shopping at The Girl Next Door Yard Sale. Benefiting the Donald W. Reynolds Crisis Intervention Center, The Girl Next Door Resale Store is expanding onto the lawn for a one-day yard sale. All proceeds will support the vision of the Crisis Intervention Center, which is to protect, support and empower survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault in our community. 7 a.m.-2 p.m. The Girl Next Door Resale Store, 415 Lexington Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-434-4433 fscic.org October 2013 Entertainment Fort Smith 55

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Oct. 5 Huntington’s Disease Walk of Hope The 12th annual walk with silent auction includes a signed Razorback football along with many other items. Call Sandee to register. Free. 9 a.m. Creekmore Park Community Building, Rogers Avenue and 31st Street, Fort Smith. 479-474-2221 Oct. 5 Crepuscular Cruise Explore the twilight world of Lake Fort Smith State Park while cruising the cool waters aboard the park’s tour boat. Take a jacket. Reservations are required by calling the marina at 479-369-1018. This is a weather dependent program and may be canceled. Adults $9, children (6-12) $5, children under 6 free. 6-7:30 p.m. Lake Fort Smith State Park, 15458 Shepherd Springs Road, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-2469 arkansasstateparks.com/lakefortsmith Oct. 6 Fall Magic Boat Tour Enjoy a relaxing cruise on the serene waters of Lake Fort Smith. Reservations are suggested and will be taken at the marina at 479-369-1018. This is a weather dependent event and may be canceled. Adults $9, children 6-12 $5, children under 6 free. 2-3:30 p.m. Lake Fort Smith State Park, 15458 Shepherd Springs Road, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-2469 arkansasstateparks.com/lakefortsmith

Oct. 6 TrailBlazers Hiking Club Season Begins Hike along the familiar trails at Devil’s Den State Park and enjoy a wiener roast/potluck. Families, friends and individuals can enjoy this beautiful state park, fun and fellowship and delicious food. Take a potluck side dish and your own beverages. The club will furnish hotdogs and the trimmings. 2:30-6 p.m. Devil’s Den State Park, 11333 West Arkansas 74, West Fork, Ark. 479646-9562 thcfs.com Oct. 6 First Person Portrayal of Mary Parker Volunteer Sue Robison will portray the wife of Judge Parker, Mary Parker. Mary was not only the wife of the famous judge, but a leader in the community, mother and important witness to the goings on in the town and court of Fort Smith. The programs will be held in the park’s courtroom. Free. 11 a.m.-noon. Fort Smith National Historic Site, 301 Parker Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-783-3961 nps.gov/fosm

Oct. 6-25 Art Exhibit: The Work of Ernest and Connie Cialone A reception opens a joint exhibit of the work of Connie and Ernest Cialone. He is an assistant professor of art at UA-Fort Smith. His work reflects his activities as a role model and mentor in the academic environment. Cialone’s favorite subjects are flowers and cats. The Studio Gallery will be shared by Joanne Reid, Wanda Granderson and Jack Sours. 1-4 p.m. Center For Art & Education, 104 North 13th Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-7767 vanburen.org Oct. 7 Keyboard/Mouse Beginning class familiarizes students with the key components of the computer and offers practice in keyboarding skills. $20. 6 p.m. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5318 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith. 479788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning 56

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Oct. 7 Senior Coffee Talk: Pardon Me? One of three adults over 65 has some level of hearing loss. Discuss its causes and solutions. Hosted by Christian Companion Senior Care and Chapel Ridge Health & Rehab. Van Buren Public Library Meeting Room. Free. 9-10 a.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-434-3531

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Oct. 7 History Day Workshop Teachers and students who are interested in participating in National History Day are invited to a workshop to learn about the 2014 theme, primary sources available in the area, conducting research and different types of projects. Three hours of professional development credit are available for Arkansas teachers. Registration required by Oct. 2. Free. 1-4 p.m. U.S. Marshals Museum, 14 North 3rd Street, Suite D, Fort Smith. 479-709-3766 usmarshalsmuseum.com Oct. 7, 10 Hanging Days at the Fort On anniversary dates of executions, the Fort Smith National Historic Site offers interpretive programs giving an overview of the condemned and their victims, the federal court and how an execution was conducted. Oct. 7, execution of Seaborn Kalijah, alias Seaborn Green and Silas Hampton. Oct. 10, execution of Tunagee, alias Tuni Young Wolf. Free. 11 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Fort Smith National Historic Site, 301 Parker Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-783-3961 nps.gov/fosm Oct. 7, 21 Van Buren Library Scrabble Club Friendly Scrabble competition. Free. 1-3 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 crawfordcountylib.org

Oct. 7-28 Computer Basics Level I Learn the basics of computing. Use practical, handson exercises to learn about operating systems, basic applications and how to create, sort and filter files. Learn to manage security settings and keyboard shortcuts. $55; partner pricing $40. 10 a.m. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5318 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning

Oct. 7-28 Monday Night Dance Lessons Dance changes every month. Betty Farmer teaches beginners dance and Mike Lawrence teaches advanced dance in foxtrot, waltz, cha-cha, rhumba, tango, bolero, salsa, merengue, samba, West Coast and East Coast swing, paso doble and polka. Dance on the largest dance floor in the River Valley. Beginner lessons 7:30-9 p.m.; advanced lessons 6:30-7:30 p.m. $5. Eagles Ballroom, 3321 South 66th Street, Fort Smith. 479-484-7156

Oct. 8 Meditation Techniques “Meditation” is a general term for a wide range of techniques by which practitioners consciously direct their attention so as to alter their states of consciousness. Meditative techniques lead you to still the mind, emotions and nervous system, thus relieving day-today stress and bringing the physical body to a deep state of relaxation and rejuvenation. $29. 6 p.m. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5318 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning

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Oct. 8 Is your Data Safe? Is your data secured using an online backup service or do you spend hours copying it to disks? How long would it take to get all your data if you needed it? Learn how to use most available applications to create backups, schedule backups and restore data, especially if you are a sole proprietor or a small-business operator. $15. 6 p.m. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5318 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning

Oct. 8 If All Arkansas Read the Same Book : Author Visit with Vivienne Schiffer The Arkansas Center for the Book at the Arkansas State Library has named “Camp Nine” by Arkansas native Vivienne Schiffer as the 2013 If All Arkansas Read the Same Book selection. “Camp Nine” is a fictionalized version of Rohwer, Ark., and the Rohwer Relocation Center in Desha County, one of two sites in Arkansas where 16,000 Japanese Americans were incarcerated between 1942 and 1945. Books will be available for purchase and signing at the event. This project is funded by a grant from the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services to the Arkansas State Library under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act. Free. 7:30 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org Oct. 8-19 Learn to Sail A classroom introduction to the basic theory of using the wind, terminology of sailing and getting started

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onboard is followed by 2.5 hours of practical sailing aboard a 23-foot keelboat on Robert S. Kerr Lake. The class is suited to the novice sailor or the sailor who is rusty and needs a refresher. Prefer students to be 16 or older. Registration required. Class meets Oct. 8 and Oct. 15 with sailing on Kerr Lake Oct. 19. $125. 6 p.m. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5318 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning Oct. 9 Emotional Intelligence Learn to manage emotions, understand emotion in a work or social situation and by understanding the emotions of others learn to manage theirs. $7. 1 p.m. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5318 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning

Oct. 9 Fort Smith Historical Society Program: Butterfield Overland Mail Company Al Drap will be the guest speaker at a meeting of the Fort Smith Historical Society. After a brief business meeting, Drap will discuss the Butterfield Overland Mail Company route through Fort Smith, 1858 to 1861. Drap will present slides and county maps of the route through Arkansas, with time for questions and answers. Free. 6 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-783-0229 fortsmithhistory.org Oct. 9 “If All Arkansas Read the Same book” Project This year’s If All of Arkansas Read the Same Book

project will feature Arkansas author Vivienne Schiffer. Her novel “Camp Nine” takes place during World War II in the Desha County, Ark., internment camp for Japanese Americans. The author will speak about her novel and this unique time in Arkansas history. Free. 10-11 a.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 Oct. 9-11 Workshop by Derek Penix: Landscape and Still-Life Painting A three day-workshop in oil painting will include oneon-one instruction, demonstrations and critiques. The focus will be on light and shadow painting. Penix will discuss the importance of shape, value, color, edges and composition. Students will focus on seeing in terms of mass and form rather than detail and line. Students should take reference materials, such as photographs for still life and landscape painting. Class is designed for the intermediate to advanced student, but all are welcome. Members $350; non-members $375. Fort Smith Regional Art Museum, 1601 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-784-2787 fsram.org

Oct. 10 Discover the Internet Learn to use the internet and its access to a world of information. Learn to shop online, find a job or understand basic security. Students will learn the many ways to use a computer at home or at a public site. Must have an e-mail address set up in advance of the class or have taken the Discover Webmail class. $20; $15 partner pricing. 9 a.m. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5318 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-7887220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning

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Oct. 10 360 Leadership Series-Luncheon Melody Trimble, Southern and Western Group president for Health Management Associates, has served in a variety of roles at multiple hospitals since joining the company in 1991, including CEO of Sparks Health System and Summit Medical Center in Van Buren. In 2012, Trimble earned her designation as Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives, and was honored with the Administrator of the Year Award by the Arkansas Hospital Auxiliary Association in the Over 100 Bed category. Trimble has a master’s degree in nursing from the University of Kentucky. Sponsored by 360 Leadership, a group of business professionals whose mission is to provide professional development, networking opportunities and spiritual growth for Arkansas River Valley professionals. $17. Noon-1 p.m. MovieLounge, 7601 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-226-3595 360leadershipseries.com

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Oct. 10 Develop Positive Assertiveness A three-hour workshop helps students examine their posture, language and attitude while learning to deal openly with others. Find a natural style of communication and learn to use assertive words appropriately. Registration required. $59. 8-11 a.m. UAFS BII Building, Room 113, North 50th Street and Grand Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7742 uafs.edu Oct. 10 Introduction to Social Media Marketing The Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center gives a hands-on seminar teaching small businesses to use social media sites. It will include best practices in setting up accounts and metrics to monitor the campaign. Geared for beginners who are unfamiliar with social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and LinkedIn. An iPad will be provided for use. Call or go online to register. Free. 9:30 a.m.-noon. Greenwood Chamber of Commerce, 16 Town Square, Greenwood, Ark. 479-356-2067 asbtdc.ualr.edu/training/russellville.asp

Oct. 10 Facebook Business Pages The Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center presents a hands-on seminar on using Facebook business pages. Attendees will be shown how to find content to post, create contests and use third-party sites to create custom tabs. Learn to understand, monitor and use Facebook Insights data to determine content effectiveness. IPads will be provided for active learning. Call or go online to register. Free. 1-4 p.m. Greenwood Chamber of Commerce, 16 Town Square, Greenwood, Ark. 479-356-2067 asbtdc.ualr.edu/training/russellville.asp

Oct. 10-17 Beers of Arkansas/Oklahoma Take a trip through the history and evolution of beer. Explore the family tree of beer and how beer from different regions is made, regional differences and traditions. Topics will include how environmental factors affect brewing cultures and, in turn, the final product. Then discover craft breweries in Arkansas and Oklahoma and sample their beers. Must be 21 years or older to participate. $55. 6 p.m. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5318 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning

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Birthday of Judge Isaac C. Parker Celebrate the 175th birthday of Judge Isaac C. Parker with birthday cake in the soda fountain at the Fort Smith Museum of History. Visit with the famous judge himself, portrayed by Floyd Robison, and Mrs. Parker, portrayed by Sue Robison. The Robisons have researched the Parkers extensively. Free wagon rides also will be available. Judge Parker was born Oct. 15, 1838, in Belmont County, Mo. He passed the bar exam in 1859 and began his legal career in St. Joseph, Mo. Parker was elected U.S. congressman from Missouri for two terms, 1871-1874. Appointed by President Grant in 1875, Isaac Parker began his famous tenure as federal judge for the Western District of Arkansas, a post he would hold until his death in 1896. Free. Donations appreciated. 1 p.m. Fort Smith Museum of History, 320 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-783-7841 fortsmithmuseum.com

Oct. 10-31 Discover France Get a taste of travel in France. Celebrate the French style in language, food, travel, film, fashion and culture. Learn basic phrases to start venturing out to find the real France. $50; $45 partners. 6 p.m. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5318 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning Oct. 11 Keyboard/Mouse Class familiarizes students with the key components of the computer and offers practices in keyboarding skills. $20. 9 a.m. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5318 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning

Oct. 11 Formatting Documents with Microsoft Word 2010 Learn to format text with page layout in a four-hour class. Recommended for beginning users of Microsoft Word 2010. Registration required. $69. 8 a.m.-noon. UAFS BII Building, Room 115, North 50th Street and Grand Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7742 uafs.edu

Oct. 11 Dallas Branch Book Club The book club offers a fun, relaxed discussion about favorite reads. There is no required reading for this club; read whatever you like and share your opinions about what you have read. Free. 2 p.m. Dallas Branch Library, 8100 Dallas Street, Fort Smith. 479-484-5650 fortsmithlibrary.org

Oct. 11 Learning About Lou Gehrig’s Disease ALS, commonly referred to as Lou Gehrig’s Disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and the spinal cord. ALS is the most common of the five motor neuron diseases. Carole Anne Boyd-Haws, LMSW, director of patient care services for the ALS Association Arkansas Chapter, will discuss this disease including what it is, whom it affects and the cost of living with this disease. Information will be given on support groups, assistive technology and other resources. The speaker will also touch on hospice and palliative care. Sponsored by the National Association of Social Workers, Arkansas Chapter, Western Branch. Three-hour continuing education credit is available for social workers. $10. 1-4 p.m. Mercy Hospital, Sicard Room (near the Women’s Center entrance), 7301 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 800-797-6279 naswar.org 60 Entertainment Fort Smith October 2013

Oct. 11 Redwork and Embroidery Club The October stitch-in will be a finishing class for the block-of-the-month projects of the last year. A new project will be started in November and a supply list is available at the circulation desk. Free. 1-3 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 crawfordcountylib.org Oct. 11-12 Photography Workshop Improve your photography skills under the direction of noted local photographer J.P. Bell in this two-day workshop, located in the beautiful surroundings of Eureka Springs. There will be many shooting opportunities whatever your specialty – architecture, fall foliage, portraits and people. Hands-on instruction and the ability to critique each other’s work under Bell’s tutelage will provide a valuable experience in improving your skills. Accommodation and two meals provided. Limited to 12 participants. Students will make their own way to Eureka Springs. $145 shared double, $205 single room. 6 p.m. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5318 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning

Oct. 11-12 Art in the Park Wonderful art works by local and regional artists and artisans will be on exhibit and for sale at this two-day art show to benefit the Child Enrichment Center at First United Methodist Church of Fort Smith. A Meet the Artists reception opens the show from 5-8 p.m. Oct. 11. The show and sale are from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Oct. 12. Applications are still available for exhibitors by contacting Pat Little at patdlittle@yahoo.com. 5-8 p.m. Riverfront Park Events Building, 121 Riverfront Drive, Fort Smith. 470-452-1459

Oct. 11-12 A Weekend with Brent Heath Brent Heath of Brent and Becky’s Bulbs will offer two programs and one workshop on using bulbs in perennial gardens. Oct. 11 at 7:30 p.m. – Heirloom Bulbs for Restoration Gardens, $20 and $25; Oct. 12 at 9:30 a.m. – Bulbs as Companion Plants, $20 and $25; Oct. 12 at 12:30 p.m. – Living Arrangements: Layering Bulbs in Containers; $45 and $50 includes all materials. Workshop is limited to 30 registered and paid in advance. Participants may register and pay for one, two or all three classes, with a $10 discount for buying all three. Advance registration online. Botanical Garden of the Ozarks, 4703 North Crossover Road, Fayetteville, Ark. 479-750-2620 bgozarks.org

Oct. 11-13 Van Buren Fall Festival More than 200 exhibitors of fine artwork, handcrafted items, antiques, collectibles and flea market finds will display their wares on the street. At 6 p.m. Oct. 11, there will be a mayor’s welcome followed by a free bluegrass concert. Arts & crafts vendors will open at 9 a.m. Oct. 12 and at 7 p.m., country music star Eddy Raven will perform a free concert. Concert-goers are encouraged to take their own seating. Arts & crafts and entertainment continue from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Oct. 13. Free. Downtown Van Buren, Historic Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-410-3026 vanburen.org Oct. 12-13 Fall Magic Boat Tour Enjoy a relaxing cruise on the serene waters of Lake Fort Smith. Reservations are suggested and will be taken at the marina at 479-369-1018. This is a weather-dependent event and may be canceled. $9 adults; $5 children 6-12; free for under 6. 2-3:30 p.m. Lake Fort Smith State Park, 15458 Shepherd Springs Road, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-2469 arkansasstateparks.com/lakefortsmith

Oct. 12 8th Annual Sallisaw Cruizin’ 64 Cool cars and hot chili are the main attractions at Sallisaw Main Street’s annual car show and chili cookoff. Car show registration will be held from 8-11:30 a.m. Oct. 12 with awards at 2 p.m. First- and secondplace trophies will be given for all categories. A complete list of car show categories is given online. $20 entry fee. The Chili Cook-off begins Oct. 12 with 9 a.m. set-up on the corner of Oak and Choctaw streets in downtown Sallisaw. Chili must be ready to serve at 11 a.m. Trophies and cash prizes will be awarded for the winners for best 1-alarm, 2-alarm and 3-alarm chili, as well as People’s Choice. There is no entry fee for the chili cook-off and cooks may enter as many categories as they like. Activities for all ages include a talent show at 11 a.m. Oct. 12. Entries will be accepted until 10:30 a.m. A burnout is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Oct. 12 at the junction of U.S. 64 and U.S. 59 followed by Cruise Night on Cherokee. The Fun Time Carnival will be open each evening and vendors will add to the entertainment. Register online for all events. 8 a.m. Downtown Sallisaw, Cherokee Street, Sallisaw, Okla. 918-775-9555 sallisawmainstreet.org Oct. 12 Mount Nebo Rim Trail Hike Hike the beautiful Rim Trail at Mount Nebo, a 3-mile, easy-to-moderate hike. There are beautiful views so it is hard to watch your step along this trail. This is a

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS good trail for new hikers. Take a lunch and water. Meet at Central Mall parking lot to carpool. 8:30 a.m. Mount Nebo State Park, 16728 West Arkansas 155, Dardanelle, Ark. 479-646-9562 thcfs.com Oct. 12 Learn Basic Herbs Registration is required for this class about basic herb knowledge. Door prizes will be awarded. $10. 1-2:30 p.m. Cre8ive Arts Network, Chaffee Crossing Historic District, 7408 Terry, Fort Smith. 479-222-6244, 479-357-9079

Oct. 12 50th Annual Wiederkehr Village Weinfest The annual celebration of wine-making and the heritage of the Wiederkehr Winery is an all-day festival where grape-stomping, vineyard and winery tours, wine-tasting and traditional Swiss and German foods, culture and music completely overtake Wiederkehr Village near Altus, Ark. Admission is free. Festivities begin at 8 a.m. From Interstate 40, take exit 41 onto Arkansas 186 South. Follow the signs to Wiederkehr Wine Cellars, about 4 miles, to the Wiederkehr Winery near Altus, Ark. 479-468-3551, 800-622-WINE Oct. 12 Self-Defense Basics Discover some self-defense tactics and techniques at and learn to defend yourself. The class, which will be taught by black belts Ethan Riley, Mark Riley and Joshua Taggart, will cover basic stance, strikes and blocks. Intended for ages 12 and up. Free. 1-3 p.m. Miller Branch Library, 8701 South 28th Street, Fort Smith. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org

Oct. 13 Authors in the Afternoon: Nancy Powell Local author Nancy Powell sign copies of her book “Angels for All” and the books in her Ollie’s Angel series. The first book in the series, “Dark Secrets,” originally called “Ollie’s Angels,” won first place in the 2010 Oklahoma Writers Federation Mainstream Novel Contest; “Angels for All” is also an award-winner. Her set of three books is named after the guardian angels that watch over her and warn of many impending dangers. Books will be available for purchase and signing at an open-house style event. Free. 3-4:30 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org

Oct. 15-Nov. 12 Microsoft Windows Learn to organize files and customize computer settings using the Windows operating system. The hands-on class shows how to manage files and use basic programs of the Windows environment. $80 includes textbook and flash drive. 8-9:25 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. Fort Smith Adult Education Center, 501 South 20th Street, Fort Smith. 479-648-3535 adulteducationfortsmith.org

Oct. 15-Nov. 12 Microsoft Word 2010 Learn the basics of word processing using Microsoft Word including formatting, tabs, graphics and tables. End the frustration when creating simple documents. $80 includes textbook and flash drive. 9:30-10:55 a.m. Fort Smith Adult Education Center, 501 South 20th Street, Fort Smith. 479-648-3535 adulteducationfortsmith.org

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Oct. 15-Nov. 12 Advanced MS Excel 2010 Learn to use multiple worksheets and workbooks and start working with more advanced formatting options. $80 includes textbook and flash drive. 11 a.m.-12:25 p.m. Tuesdays. and Thursdays. Fort Smith Adult Education Center, 501 South 20th Street, Fort Smith. 479-648-3535 adulteducationfortsmith.org

Oct. 15-Nov. 19 Yoga Learn to relax body and mind. Yoga exercises can improve flexibility, body alignment, strength and coordination. Students at all levels are welcome. Mats provided. Students should wear comfortable clothing. $45. 5:30-6:30 p.m. Tuesdays. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5318 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning

28th Annual Oktoberfest Presented by the Knights of Columbus to benefit the Gregory Kistler Treatment Center, this is Fort Smith’s longest-running Oktoberfest, with a German biergarten, German food as well as Mexican and Asian food choices, games for children, arts & crafts, a silent auction and entertainment by Gary Hutchison and Oreo Blue, both nights. 5:30-11 p.m. Oct. 11; 2-11 p.m Oct. with Happy Brat Hour from 3-4:30 p.m. Columbus Acres, 10203 Columbus Acres Road, Fort Smith. 479-785-4677

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Oct. 16 Postcards from the Edge ... of Fort Smith Dr. Kevin Jones recently published a history of Fort Smith as seen in early postcards. His talk will reveal how he found the postcards, what they show of Fort Smith and the interesting stories on the flip side. In addition, Jones will preview his upcoming book, also related to Fort Smith history. $7. 1 p.m. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5210 Grand Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning Oct. 16 Trip to Murry’s Dinner Playhouse An excursion to Murry’s Dinner Playhouse for lunch and a production of “Dial M for Murder.” This is the play made famous in Hitchcock’s movie featuring Grace Kelly and Ray Milland, where blackmail and murder go hand in hand with missing letters and tennis professionals. $115. 8:30 a.m. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5318 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning

Oct. 16 Sandwich Seminar: Women’s Wellness During National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, educators from The Women’s Center at Sparks and Summit will discuss breast health and provide instruction on performing self-exams. Genetic testing for breast and ovarian cancers and bone health will be ad-

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dressed. Lunch and bone density screenings will be provided. Free. Noon-1 p.m. Summit Medical Center, East Main and South 20th Streets, Van Buren, Ark. 479-709-3627

Oct. 16, 23 Control Logix 5000 Series Basic Motor Control Programming Programming a Rockwell Automation RS Logix 5000 system. Topics include the implantation of standard motor control logic in a PLC platform. Registration required. $249. 4-8 p.m. UAFS Echols Building, Room 203, 504 North Waldron Road, Fort Smith. 479-788-7742 uafs.edu Oct. 16 WAHRA Leadership Conference Motivational guest speaker Jeff Glasbrenner speaks at the luncheon of a human resources conference open to all managers and supervisors. Glasbrenner holds a National Championship scoring record in wheelchair basketball, is a three-time Paralympian and a two-time World Champion. He has completed 19 Ironman triathlons and is the author of “The Gift of a Day.” Register online. $35. Noon. UAFS Smith Pendergraft Campus Center, 5210 Grand Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7782 wahra.com

Oct. 16-28 Microsoft PowerPoint 2010 Learn to integrate graphics, video and music into presentations. $80 includes textbook and flash drive. 57:55 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays. Fort Smith Adult Education Center, 501 South 20th Street, Fort Smith. 479-785-1232 adulteducationfortsmith.org

Oct. 16-28 Microsoft Windows Learn to organize files and customize computer settings using the Windows operating system. Handson class shows how to manage files and use some basic programs of the Windows environment. $80 includes textbook and flash drive. 5-7:55 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays. Fort Smith Adult Education Center, 501 South 20th Street, Fort Smith. 479-785-1232 adulteducationfortsmith.org

Oct. 16-Nov. 6 Adobe Illustrator Adobe Illustrator gives a designer freedom of total creation. Learn to digitally draw with a wide set of tools such as the pen tool, line tools, shape tools and thousands of colors. $55. 6 p.m. Wednesdays. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5318 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning Oct. 16-Nov. 11 Microsoft Access 2010 Learn the basics of creating and using databases and practice creating, querying and maintaining databases. $80 includes textbook and flash drive. 8-9:25 a.m. Mondays and Wednesdays. Fort Smith Adult Education Center, 501 South 20th Street, Fort Smith. 479-648-3535 adulteducationfortsmith.org Oct. 16-Nov. 11 Advanced Microsoft Word 2010 This class is designed for students who have completed or have knowledge of the topics covered in the Basic Word Class. Learn styles, sections and columns, formatting tables, printing labels and envelopes and working with graphics. $80 includes text-

CALENDAR OF EVENTS book and flash drive. 9:30-10:55 a.m. Mondays and Wednesdays. Fort Smith Adult Education Center, 501 South 20th Street, Fort Smith. 479-785-1232 adulteducationfortsmith.org

Oct. 16-Nov. 11 Technology for Career Success Students will learn how to use the computer in pursuit of a job. Learn how to use e-mail extensively, create a resume and search online for available jobs. Class meets Monday and Wednesday. Free. 11 a.m.-12:25 p.m. Fort Smith Adult Education Center, 501 South 20th Street, Fort Smith. 479-785-1232 adulteducationfortsmith.org

Oct. 16-Nov. 11 Microsoft IT Academy Achieve the premier Microsoft Office certification, which is globally recognized as the standard for demonstrating desktop skills. The Office Specialist program is helping meet the demand for qualified and knowledgeable people in the modern workplace. Study and take the official tests. Free. 2-3 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays. Fort Smith Adult Education Center, 501 South 20th Street, Fort Smith. 479-785-1232 adulteducationfortsmith.org

Oct. 16-Nov. 20 Line Dancing II After mastering Line Dancing I, kick it up a notch! Rubber-soled shoes or soft-sole dance shoes with no heels are required. $35. 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5318 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Champion. Saddles, buckles and thousands of dollars in prize money are up for the best riders and ropers. Gates open at 6 p.m. each day. The performance starts at 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday and 6:30 p.m. Saturday. Kay Rodgers Park, 4400 Midland Boulevard, Fort Smith. 479-530-1959

Oct. 17-Nov. 21 Zumba Fuse Latin rhythm with easy-to-follow moves in a beginner Zumba course. Students of all levels of fitness are welcome. $39. 5:30 p.m. Thursdays. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5318 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning

October Shadows Paranormal Lamplight Tour Whether you are a believer, merely interested or just like to hear spooky tales in an authentic 19th century setting, there is something to enjoy at this special tour of the Clayton House. Take a flashlight and a camera and hear guides tell evidence and anecdotes of the spirits some believe yet linger in this restored Victorian-era house that has long been a part of Fort Smith’s rich history. Find out why the investigators keep coming back and why some of the staff say they never will – at least not after dark. Suitable for ages 10 and above; children 14 and under should be accompanied by an adult. Make reservations online. $10 donation benefits the Fort Smith Heritage Foundation. Tours at 7 and 8:30 p.m. The Clayton House, 514 North 6th Street, Fort Smith. 479-783-3000 claytonhouse.org

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Oct. 17 Qigong Intermediate Add new movements to help create a longer routine. This ancient form of selfhealing and breathing exercises can lead to improved circulation, reduced stress and restored health. $29. 6 p.m. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5318 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning Oct. 17 Lunch & Learn: Cash Flow 101 This seminar will teach the business owner the basics to help keep the cash flowing. Lunch provided. Limited seating. Call or go online to register. Free. 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Fianna Hills Country Club, No. 1 Essex Place, Fort Smith. 479-356-2067 asbtdc.ualr.edu/training/russellville.asp

Oct. 17 Authors in the Afternoon: Claude Eubanks Fort Smith author Claude Eubanks sign copies of his books, “Ill-gotten Gains,” “Illgotten Gains II” and “Bully in the Pulpit.” Eubanks was born on a small farm near Lavaca. He received a bachelor’s degree from the University of the Ozarks and a master’s from the University of Arkansas. He coached high school football and basketball for 10 years, served as superintendent of schools for five and then owned and operated a business for 25 years. Copies of his books will be available for purchase and signing. Free. 5-7 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org

Oct. 17-18 Mountainburg Library Rummage, Book and Bake Sale Donations will be accepted starting Oct. 10. Free. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Mountainburg Public Library, 1300 U.S. 71 North, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-1600 Oct. 17-19 2013 Cowboys Regional Rodeo Association Finals The top 15 contestants in each rodeo event will be competing for the title of 2013 64 Entertainment Fort Smith October 2013

Oct. 18 Marketing with Social Media Learn to use sites such as Twitter and Facebook to drive potential customers to a business. See examples of how these networks are used and get tips on maintaining a professional online presence. Registration required. $39. 8 a.m.-noon. UAFS BII Building, Room 115, North 50th Street and Grand Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7742 uafs.edu Oct. 18 Fest of Ale The only event of its kind in Fort Smith, Fest of Ale offers an opportunity to sample more than 100 different ales and beers. The event benefits Girls Inc. of Fort Smith. The tasting includes heavy hors d’oeuvres from local restaurants and a silent auction. VIP tickets include speciality wine tastings in a reserved seating area as well as a souvenir T-shirt. Sweet and Lowdown will perform. Purchase tickets online at girlsincfortsmith.org under the “Shop” tab or at Girls Inc. Girls Inc. is a United Way Community Partner. $75 VIP; $40 regular in advance or $45 at the door. 6 p.m. Holiday Inn City Center Ballroom, 700 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-782-0375 girlsincfortsmith.org Oct. 18 Diamond Dance The T&T Combo Band performs music for ballroom, Latin and swing with an occasional polka. Attire is dressy casual. This is a great after dinner, romantic, low level light environment on the largest dance floor in the River Valley. Smoke-free atmosphere. $10 for non-members. 8-10:30 p.m. Eagles Ballroom, 3321 South 66th Street, Fort Smith. 479-484-7156

Oct. 18 Howl at the Moon Boat Tour Release your inner animal on this full moon night while cruising along the Frog Bayou at Lake Fort Smith. Reservations are required by calling the park marina at 479-369-1018. This is a weather dependent event and may be canceled. $9 adults; $5 children 6-12; free for children under 6. 7-8:30 p.m. Lake Fort Smith State Park, 15458 Shepherd Springs Road, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-2469 Oct. 18 Alma Library Scrapbooking for Adults Take adhesive, photos, scissors and other scrapbooking tools. Materials for this month’s featured layout will be provided. Register by Oct. 11. Free. 11 a.m.-noon. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140

Oct. 18-19, 25-26, 30-31 Blood on the Border Haunted House The dark, dank basement of the Fort Smith Museum of History will come to life with clowns, mummies, skeletons and a plethora of creepy characters to scare and dare the bravest souls. After being greeted at the door by a host of creepy creatures, things only get scarier as visitors descend into the dungeon. Headless bodies and bodiless heads await around each corner of the thrilling basement maze. Frightening zombies come out of the woodwork to perform in the street in front of the museum each half hour beginning at 7 p.m. as Western Arkansas Ballet brings to life Michael Jackson’s “Thriller.” Blood on the Border offers volunteer opportunities to high school and college students members. Call to volunteer – if you dare! $5. 7 p.m. Fort Smith Museum of History, 320 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-783-7841 fortsmithmuseum.com Oct. 18-31 Murder and Mayhem Trolley Tour The popular Murder and Mayhem Trolley Tour features haunted and gruesome stories from years past. Begin the evening with Halloween treats, drinks and ghost

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Food for Thought: Voices of the Razorbacks The creation and development of the Razorback Sports Network not only helped to build a loyal following for the Razorbacks, but also forged a close identification among Razorback fans with broadcasters such as Paul Eels and Bud Campbell, who became voices of the Razorbacks. Author Hoyt Purvis gives a book talk and signs his book, “Voices of the Razorbacks.” Purvis has taught at the University of Arkansas since 1982 in journalism, international relations and political science. He also established the university’s first sports journalism course and taught it for 25 years. Copies of “Voices of the Razorbacks” will be available for purchase and signing. Take a lunch or purchase from Dewey’s Cafe. The library will provide drinks and dessert. Free. Noon. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org

stories along with a peek at haunted areas of the Fort Smith Museum of History. Judge and Mrs. Isaac Parker, portrayed by Floyd and Sue Robison, narrate the tour. Fort Smith, home of the “Hanging Judge” Isaac C. Parker, was once known as “Hell on the Border.” This rough and rowdy border town was the jumping-off place into Indian Territory for outlaws, bandits and renegades. As the trolley winds its way through the Belle Grove Historic District, riders thrill to gruesome historic facts and eerie local legends. Skeletons are rattled in the closets of the Victorian homes of the historic district. Haunted houses are pointed out and their dark secrets revealed. Murder stories are related along with the story of a bloody love triangle. The narrative is as colorful as Fort Smith’s history. Reservations recommended. $25; must be 21 to attend. 6 p.m. Fort Smith Museum of History, 320 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-783-7841 fortsmithmuseum.com Oct. 19 Pedestal Rock Scenic Area Hike The TrailBlazers Hiking Club will hike at Pedestal Rock Scenic Area. There are two loops for a combined distance of 4.3 miles with a rating of moderate. See spectacular and unique sandstone bluff formations and terrific views of the surrounding mountains and a 100foot waterfall over Kings Bluff. Take lunch and water. Meet at Cloverleaf Plaza parking lot in Van Buren at 8 a.m. Pedestal Rocks Scenic Area, Arkansas 16 East, Pelsor, Ark. 479-646-9562 thdfs.com

Oct. 19 Blood Drive Donate blood and make a difference. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. BrickCity Emporium, 3215 South 74th Street, Fort Smith. 479-434-5858 brickcityemporium.com

Oct. 19 Chili and Dutch Oven Bean Cook-Off All cooks are invited to enter one or both contests. The cooking begins at 10 a.m. with a 1 p.m. turn-in for the chili and a 1:30 p.m.. turn-in for the dutch oven beans. CASI rules apply. All profits will benefit the Elks National Foundation, which funds such local programs as scholarships, grants, veterans services, Hoop Shoot, drug awareness materials and more. Three years ago, a Northside High School student received a $60,000 Elks National Foundation scholarship. Call Guy Smith at 479-650-9444 for more information or to pre-register. $20 chili; $5 dutch oven bean contest entry. 10 a.m. Fort Smith Elks Lodge No. 341, 5504 Massard Road, Fort Smith. 479-478-1060 elks.org

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Tales of the Crypt Historical portrayals will give people a walking, talking depiction of Van Buren’s rich past through historic Fairview Cemetery. There will be both twilight and daytime tours. The portrayals are done by students enrolled in Tom Wings' Historic Interpretation Class at UAFS. Those to be portrayed include: Anna Wallace (19091989), educator, principal of King Elementary, Van Buren, portrayed by Lauren Boswell; Pauline Sadler Faber (18871971), Van Buren schoolteacher, portrayed by Grace Devero; Emilie Sargent Pernot (1829-1904), wife of Dr. Henri Pernot and descendant of Josiah Bartlett, signer of the declaration, portrayed by Felicia Wright; Dunham Scott (1885-1941), World War I veteran, son of Phillip D. Scott and Fannie Dunham Scott, portrayed by Dillon Wilbourn; Judge Jonathan B. Ogden (1812- 1889), federal judge for the Western District of Arkansas and the Indian Territory portrayed by Jerry Wing; Sheriff Joseph Houck (18291884), Crawford County sheriff, veteran of the War Between the States and the Mexican American War, slain in the line of duty, portrayed by Stephen Christian. Shuttle will run. $3 for adults; $1 for children. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Oct. 19; 2-4 p.m. Oct. 20. Fairview Cemetery, Arkansas 59 between Poplar and McKibben Streets, Van Buren, Ark. 800-332-5889

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Oct. 19 Single Parent Scholarship Fund Golf Tournament Single Parent Scholarship Fund Logan County sponsors this three-person scramble with a shotgun start. To register, call Jason Shook at 479-647-0195. To sponsor or donate to scholarships, call Jessica Philmon at 479-963-2121. $150 per team. 10 a.m. Little Creek Golf Course, Arkansas 22 West, Ratcliff, Ark. 479-647-0195

Oct. 19 Survivors Challenge 5K, 10K and Celebration Walk The 22nd Annual Survivors Challenge benefitting the Reynolds Cancer Support House offers three ways to participate: a 5K run, 10K run and a Celebration Walk. Racers may run for the thrill of the race or walk for a healthier lifestyle. Many will be honoring a cancer fighter. The 5K and 10K are chip-timed races. The 10K course is part of the 2013 Arkansas Grand Prix Series. The races begin and end in front of the Reynolds Cancer Support House. Survivors who enter are encouraged to ask friends and family. All participants must pre-register. Event T-shirts can be purchased at registration. There is no race-day registration. A Finish Line Festival in Creekmore Park follows the races with fantastic refreshments, live music, kids activities, health screenings, give-aways and more. Timed 10K, $30; timed 5K, $25; untimed 5K walk/run, $20; 1-mile Celebration Walk, $20; No Motion, Just Mission UnRun, $20. 7:30 a.m. Donald W. Reynolds Cancer Support House, 3324 South M Street, Fort Smith. 479-424-1812 reynoldscancersupporthouse.org Oct. 19 Real Food, Local Farmers Meet local farmers and growers of pasture-raised meats, including chicken, beef, buffalo and eggs. Take your favorite recipe and let them redesign it in a healthier way. Ask local farmers questions about their products and enjoy samples of meats and vegetables, with tips on preparing these foods. Skin care representatives will offer free immunity scans. Free. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. BrickCity Emporium, 3215 South 74th Street, Fort Smith. 479-434-5858

Oct. 19-20 40/29 & The Arkansas CW Fort Smith Women’s Living Expo This third annual event offers a blend of 200 diverse exhibits, fashion shows, makeovers, health screenings, popular chefs and book signings with the chance to win drawings and lots of free goodies. Coupons for $2 discount are available at area CV’s Family Food stores. $6; kids under 8 free. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Oct. 19; 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Oct. 20. Fort Smith Convention Center, Rogers Avenue and South 9th Street, Fort Smith. 203259-3351 womenslivingexpo.com/FortSmith2013

Oct. 19-26 Smashbooking! Paste mementos, pictures and snippets of memories in a notebook and Bam! You’re smashbooking. Learn to use proven scrapbooking techniques and styles to quickly create a finished project. That’s why there are only two sessions. $40. 9 a.m. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5318 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning

Oct. 19-20 Fall Magic Boat Tour Cruise the serene waters of Lake Fort Smith. Reservations are suggested and will be taken at the marina

at 479- 369-1018. This is a weather-dependent event and may be canceled. $9 adults; $5 children 6-12; free for children under 6. 2-3:30 p.m. Lake Fort Smith State Park, 15458 Shepherd Springs Road, Mountainburg, Ark. (479)369-2469

Oct. 19-20 Tales of the Crypt Historical portrayals will give people a walking, talking depiction of Van Buren’s rich past through historic Fairview Cemetery. There will be both twilight and daytime tours. The portrayals are done by students enrolled in Tom Wings' Historic Interpretation Class at UAFS and is part of their curriculum. Those to be portrayed include: Anna Wallace (1909-1989), educator, principal of King Elementary, Van Buren, portrayed by Lauren Boswell; Pauline Sadler Faber (1887-1971), Van Buren schoolteacher, portrayed by Grace Devero; Emilie Sargent Pernot (1829-1904), wife of Dr. Henri Pernot and descendant of Josiah Bartlett, signer of the declaration, portrayed by Felicia Wright; Dunham Scott (1885-1941), World War I veteran, son of Phillip D. Scott and Fannie Dunham Scott, portrayed by Dillon Wilbourn; Judge Jonathan B. Ogden (18121889), federal judge for the Western District of Arkansas and the Indian Territory portrayed by Jerry Wing; Sheriff Joseph Houck (1829-1884), Crawford County sheriff, veteran of the War Between the States and the Mexican American War, slain in the line of duty, portrayed by Stephen Christian. Off-site parking will be at the northeast corner of 12th and Poplar streets with shuttle service to and from the cemetery, as well as parking on the north side of the cemetery along McKibben street. $3 for adults; $1 for children. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Oct. 19; 2-4 p.m. Oct. 20. Fairview Cemetery, Arkansas 59 between Poplar and McKibben Streets, Van Buren, Ark. 800-332-5889 vanburen.org Oct. 19-20 Silent Storytellers Original documentary produced by the Arkansas Educational Television Network that explores the history, culture, importance of preserving Arkansas' cemeteries, including Van Buren’s Fairview Cemetery. $5. 1 p.m. Oct. 19; 5 p.m. Oct. 20. King Opera House, 427 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-2426

Oct. 20-Nov. 12 Third Sunday Artists’ Reception at Michael’s Mansion Area artists will be unveiling new works that reflect the changing seasons. At the opening reception, watch artists demonstrate painting techniques. Exhibiting artists are Patricia Lappin, Barbara Loftin, Cindy Sugg, Lorrie Bridges, Jimmy Leach, Julie Mayser and Joanne Hall. Free. Opening reception 1-4 p.m. Oct. 20. Michael’s Mansion, 2900 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-883-8336 michaelsmansion.biz

Oct. 21-Nov. 11 Spanish Intermediate Want to learn more Spanish? Build on the basics of pronunciation and grammar learned in the basics class and start to speak more fluently and in conversations. $50; partners pricing $45. 6 p.m. Mondays. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5318 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning Oct. 21-Nov. 11 Microsoft IT Academy Achieve the premier Microsoft Office certification,

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globally recognized as the standard for demonstrating desktop skills. The Office Specialist program is helping meet the demand for qualified and knowledgeable people in the modern workplace. Study and take the official tests. Free. 5-7:55 p.m. Mondays. Fort Smith Adult Education Center, 501 South 20th Street, Fort Smith. 479-785-1232 adulteducationfortsmith.org Oct. 21-Nov. 25 Aikido Aikido is a powerful and dynamic martial art that stresses the avoidance of inflicting injury and the peaceful resolution of conflict whenever possible. Designed for beginners or the more experienced, students will learn the core components while getting valuable time to practice and perfect their skills. Wear comfortable clothing. All levels of fitness welcome. $49. 6 p.m. Mondays. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5318 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning

Oct. 21-Nov. 25 A Culinary Experience Noted local chef Jason Haid from River City Deli will teach the foundation knowledge for anyone who likes to get into the kitchen and create. How to select and use the right knives, what equipment is needed for what task, the five mother sauces that are used to create wonderful-tasting dishes and basic cooking techniques will be covered. From braising to broiling, searing, grilling, poaching or baking, enter the culinary world. Class size is limited. Registration required. $185. 6 p.m. Mondays. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5318 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning

Oct. 22 Lunch & Learn: Women’s Incontinence Issues Dr. Roger Scow with Sparks Obstetrics and Gynecology discusses effective, long-term treatment options for women to regain bladder and bowel control. Free. Lunch is provided. Noon-1 p.m. Sparks Regional Medical Center, 1001 Towson Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-709-3627

CALENDAR OF EVENTS learn the about operating systems, basic applications, how to create, sort and filter files, manage security settings, keyboard shortcuts, and get your questions answered. $55; partner pricing $40. 6 p.m. Tuesdays. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5210 Grand Ave, Fort Smith. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning

Oct. 22 Knit, Stitch and Crochet Today Anyone who knits, stitches or crochets or wants to learn may take their needles and materials and join an all-ages group for an afternoon of crafting. Yarn, extra supplies and plenty of help will be available. Free. 4-6 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org

Oct. 22-Nov. 19 Basics of Financial Planning Gain valuable financial education from instructor Ann Kinder, a certified financial planner with 20 years of experience in money management. Learn the terminology of the markets and investing, attitudes to risk and protecting what’s important to your retirement future. $55: $45 partner pricing. 6 p.m. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5318 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning

Oct. 22-Nov. 12 Computer Basics Level I Learn the basics of computing in the company of other beginners. Use practical hands-on exercises to

Oct. 23 Keyboard/Mouse Beginning students will become familiar with the key components of the computer and practice basic keyboarding skills. $20. 9 a.m. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5318 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning

Oct. 22-29 Knitting Project: Beanies A project-based class teaches more advanced styles of knitting, such as knitting in the round, and creates a wonderful donation for a good cause. Wool is provided. Students will knit hats to be donated to a local school in time for winter. Gather around with a group of friends and benefit from all knitting can offer – stress relief, manual dexterity and making friends. $30. 6 p.m. Tuesdays. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5318 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning

Oct. 23 Healthy Living As We Age Eat your vegetables, stop smoking, exercise more. Do you really have to do all this to live to a healthy old age or can you trust your genes to get you there? Dr. Gretchen Orosz has ideas to increase your chances of living a long life and enjoying it along the way. $7. 1 p.m. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5210 Grand Ave, Fort Smith. 479-788-7220

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Oct. 23-26 Spring Creek Art Festival Young local artists, kindergarten through college age, are invited to submit work in many media, including digital film and video, broadcast television, theater, live music and photography, to the Spring Creek Art Festival. The festival is under the umbrella of the Jones Center. Jones Center, 922 East Emma Avenue, Springdale, Ark. 479-756-8090 springcreekfestival.com

Oct. 23-27 Heaven or Hell Drama The 21st year of the “Heaven or Hell” drama features an all new cast and script. The evangelistic drama portrays the choice between heaven or hell through live acting and film. Reservations available for groups of 10 or more. Bus parking is available. Free. 7 p.m. Evangel Temple, Towson and Dodson Avenues, Fort Smith. 479-782-9121 excitinget.com

Oct. 24 Project Management A perfect starting point for those beginning a projectoriented assignment. Four-hour workshop teaches skills such as internal consulting with key stakeholders, developing and designing a project that remains in scope and executing the project within budget. Registration required. $69. 8 a.m.-noon. UAFS BII Building, Room 113, North 50th Street and Grand Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7742 uafs.edu Oct. 24 Stress and Your Health Dr. Phil Agent and Dr. Brent Reeves discuss how your body reacts to stress and what you can do to manage its impact. Call or go online to register. Free. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Cooper Clinic, third floor, 6801 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-274-3333 cooperclinic.com Oct. 24 Crawford County Volunteers for Literacy 2nd Annual Adult Spelling Bee Three-person teams sponsored by local businesses and organizations will compete under Scripps National Spelling Bee rules. Drawings for door prizes donated by area businesses. Drawing tickets are $1. A trophy will be given to the best “cheer team” supporting the spellers, as decided by the audience. Drinks and popcorn will be sold. Free. 6:30-9 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-4594 Oct. 24 Authors in the Afternoon: Richard Cox Arkansas River Valley writer Richard Cox will discuss and sign his book “Orphan Moon.” Thought-provoking and fun to read, “Orphan Moon” confirms humility as both attainable and revelatory while pride, humility’s antagonist, breeds ignorance. Copies of the book can be purchased and signed at the open-house style event. Free. 5-7 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org

Oct. 24-Nov. 17 Portraits of Hope Opening Reception and Exhibit The Fort Smith Regional Art Museum is partnering with the Ozark Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for this exhibit, which looks to use art and creativity to raise awareness. The exhibit is a fundraiser with a silent auction. All proceeds will benefit the Ozark Affiliate of Susan G. Komen and RAM’s educational programs. 68

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Works will be on view at RAM through November. The opening reception will be 5-7 p.m. Oct. 24 and admission is free. Light refreshments will be served at the reception. General $8, seniors and students $6, RAM members free. Fort Smith Regional Art Museum, 1601 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-784-2787 fsram.org Oct. 25 Van Buren Library Bingo for Books Bingo for Books will be held for adults in the meeting room. Free. 10-11 a.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045

Oct. 25 UAFS Two-Year College Choralfest The UAFS choirs and guest community college choirs from Arkansas and surrounding states present a collaborative concert to close the UAFS Two-Year College Choralfest. Wonderful choral music will be performed by each choir and a massed choir spectacular will end the concert. Free. 7 p.m. Breedlove Auditorium, 5210 Grand Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7558 uafs.edu

Oct. 26 AARP Defensive Driving Class AARP Defensive Driving Classes teach the current rules of the road, defensive driving techniques and how to operate a vehicle more safely in today’s increasingly challenging driving environment. Learn how to manage and accommodate common age-related changes in vision, hearing and reaction time. Some insurance companies award discounts to drivers who complete the course. Classes are sponsored by Summit Medical Center Auxiliary. $14. AARP

members receive $2 discount. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Summit Medical Center, East Main and South 20th Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-3401

Oct. 26 Hawksbill Crag and Lost Valley Hike TrailBlazers Hiking Club will hike Hawksbill Crag and Lost Valley Trails. Hawksbill Crag is an amazing rock outcrop that juts out from the top of a tall bluff overlooking the Buffalo River. Lost Valley is a beautiful area nearby that has a trail following a creek to a cave where there is a 30-foot waterfall. Take a flashlight to go inside to see it. Both trails will total about 5 miles and are rated easy, moderate if you climb up the hill and go in the cave. Take lunch and water. Meet at Cloverleaf Plaza parking lot in Van Buren to carpool. 8 a.m. Newton County, Cave Mountain Road and Arkansas 43, Boxley Valley, Ark. 479-646-9562 thcfs.com Oct. 26 Mount Zion CME Church’s Musical Extravaganza Celebrate the 138th anniversary of Mount Zion CME Church with a musical extravaganza. Founded in 1875, Mount Zion has a long, rich history and recognizes that it has come this far only by faith and the grace of God. The evening of worship will feature musical talent from across the region. 6 p.m. Mount Zion CME Church, 910 North 7th Street, Fort Smith. 479-782-2100 Oct. 26 Haunted Boat Tour The normally placid Lake Fort Smith takes on a Halloween feeling in this ranger-led cruise, with the telling

of authentic Ozarks ghost stories and folklore. Wear a costume and celebrate Halloween. Not for the faint of heart. Reservations are required by calling the park marina at 479-369-1018. $9 adults; $5 children 6-12; free for children under 6. 6-7:30 p.m. Lake Fort Smith State Park, 15458 Shepherd Springs Road, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-2469

Oct. 26 Halloween On Main Street The Van Buren Old Town Merchants Association welcomes trick-or-treaters. Costumed kids can collect candy, ride a kiddie train, compete in costume contests and more. It’s a fun, safe Halloween on historic Main Street. Free. 6-8 p.m. Historic Main Street, downtown Van Buren, Ark. 479-410-3026

Oct. 26 Run for Hope 5K Run/Walk and Pancake Bar Social A 5K race will benefit Hope Academy, an after-school program for teens battling addiction. The Pancake Bar Social held after completion of the race is included in the racer registration fee and available for $5 to nonracers. $30. 8-11 a.m. Hope Academy, 501 North 24th Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-420-3266 stir1024.org Oct. 26 Magical Herbs and Spooky Foods Attention all ghosts and goblins. The Herbal Committee of the River Valley Master Gardeners is presenting a spook-tacular herbal haunt with games, spooky snacks and haunting ghost stories. Wear spooky costumes. Call for reservations. $20. 9:30 a.m.-noon. Reynolds Cancer Support House, 3325 South M Street, Fort Smith. 479-782-2104

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Oct. 26 Spooktacular 100 Ride The Morgan Nick Foundation hosts this cycling event to raise funds to educate and empower children to stay safe from abduction and harm. Cyclists of all levels may choose their challenge from the 10-, 25-, 62mile (metric century) or 100-mile courses available. Full route support includes breakfast, lunch, snacks and hydration, plus medical support, SAG and bicycle mechanics. A cook-out will be held at the finish line. $40 adults, $20 children. Maps and more information online. Chaffee Crossing, 7313 Terry Street, Fort Smith. 479-632-6382 morgannickfoundation.com Oct. 26-27 Fall Magic Boat Tour Enjoy the fall colors from aboard the park tour boat. Reservations are suggested and will be taken at the marina at 479-369-1018. This is a weather-dependent event and may be canceled. $9 adults; $5 children 612, $5; free for children under 6. 2-3:30 p.m. Lake Fort Smith State Park, 15458 Shepherd Springs Road, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-2469

Oct. 27 Authors in the Afternoon: Steve Grizzle Muldrow author Steve Grizzle will discuss and sign copies of “The 3-P Man – Memoirs of a Perfect Life Adventure: A Preacher, Pilot, and Police Officer All in One Person.” The book reveals details of a life lived as an exciting journey, leading him from preaching in the pulpit to traveling the world as a pilot to serving as a police officer. As a man with a true need for speed, Grizzle’s journey has been one of exciting and unforgettable events. Grizzle has a bachelor’s degree in Christian education from Southwestern Assemblies of God University. He has an airline transport pilot rating with commercial privileges and is a certified police officer in Oklahoma. Books may be purchased for signing at the open-house style event. Free. 2-4 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org Oct. 27 Local Author Event Local authors will be at the library to tell about themselves and to sell and sign their books. Free. 1-4 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 crawfordcountylib.org

Oct. 27 Clayton Conversations The Clayton Brothers: Arkansas History Makers Union Army general, Arkansas’ Reconstruction governor, U.S. Attorney, assassinated congressional candidate – a rich tapestry of Arkansas and American history is woven from the lives of brothers Powell, William H.H. and John Middleton Clayton. Learn about these three political, judicial and civic leaders who hailed from Pennsylvania and landed in Arkansas after participating in the Civil War. Gene McVay, a former president of the Fort Smith Heritage Foundation, will present a slideshow at the historic house museum, the restored home of William Henry Harrison Clayton, chief prosecutor of Judge Isaac C. Parker’s federal frontier court. “Arkansas history books were not completely kind to the Claytons,” McVay said. “I wanted to do some research and show their human side.” McVay served in the Air Force and is a member of the national executive committee of the American Legion. Before his 2 p.m. program, the museum invites the public to gather at 1 p.m. for the 173rd birthday cele70

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bration of W.H.H. Clayton. Cake and punch will be served and free guided tours of the museum will be offered. Call for reservations. $5 suggested donation. 1 p.m. Clayton House, 514 North 6th Street, Fort Smith. 479-783-3000 claytonhouse.org Oct. 28 Basic Computer Class An introductory class about computer basics for adults who have little or no hands-on experience with computers. Register by phone or at the circulation desk. Free. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 crawfordcountylib.org Oct. 28-Nov. 4 History of the English Language Increase vocabulary and understand the origins of the English language. The class examines the English language all the way back to its roots, while determining the influences in the way we speak and understand each other. $35. 6 p.m. Mondays. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5318 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning Oct. 28-Nov. 18 Write Better English A good grasp of grammar principles can improve both speaking and writing skills. English teacher Anne Hebert uses an uncomplicated textbook to help students master basic concepts such as sentence structure and punctuation, leading to more complex concepts like logic and clarity in improving writing and communication skills. $65, includes textbook. 6 p.m. Mondays. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5318 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning Oct. 29 Taste of Fort Smith The 26th annual Taste of Fort Smith is presented by the Altrusa Club. The popular one-day event features the area’s finest food and beverage sampling from as many as 50 vendors. Tickets are available in advance at any Simmons First National Bank location or the Fort Smith Chamber of Commerce until noon the day of the event. $12 advance; $15 at the door. 11 a.m., 7 p.m. Fort Smith Convention Center, Rogers Avenue and South 9th Street, Fort Smith. 479-629-8852

Oct. 29 Business Seminar: Get Listed Locally The Arkansas Small Business and Development Center presents free hands-on seminar. Learn to increase online listings through multiple online search engine sites. An iPad will be provided for use during the interactive session. ASBTDC is offering the training at no charge, thanks to special funding from the U.S. Small Business Administration. Call or go online to register. Free. 10 a.m.-noon. Beall Barclay & Co., 3101 South 70th Street, Fort Smith. 479-356-2067 asbtdc.ualr.edu/training/russellville.asp Oct. 29 Business Seminar: First Steps to Video Marketing Get hands-on training to learn to create free commercials with simple online tools and get assistance in uploading videos to popular video sites. A free, 20-page workbook with step-by-step instructions is included, and iPads will be provided to deliver this interactive session. The Arkansas Small Business and Development Center is offering the training at no charge,

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS thanks to special funding from the U.S. Small Business Administration. Call or go online to register. Free. 1-4 p.m. Beall Barclay & Co., 3101 South 70th Street, Fort Smith. 479-356-2067 asbtdc.ualr.edu/training/russellville.asp

Oct. 29-Nov. 19 Intermediate Word Go beyond the basic document by inserting text boxes, clip art and charts. Learn to create columns and format pages individually. Intro to Word or basic Word skills required. $55. 6 p.m. Tuesdays. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5318 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning Oct. 29-Nov. 19 Discover Italy Learn to express yourself in the Italian language. Learn phrases and words, pronunciation and proper forms of address to feel comfortable on a trip to Italy. Ask directions, navigate stores, order a room and gain insight into the culture and lifestyle of Italy. $50; $45 partner pricing. 6 p.m. Tuesdays. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5318 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning Oct. 29-Nov. 19 Discover Germany This class teaches basic pronunciation, vocabulary, how to communicate to get around as well as lifestyles and customs of a fascinating part of Europe. Learn handy phrases for shopping, traveling, ordering a meal or asking directions. $50; $45 partner pricing. 6 p.m. Tuesdays. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5318 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning

Oct. 30 Clayton House: Keeping History Alive Learn what it really takes to preserve the 1882 Clayton House, Fort Smith’s Victorian house museum. Executive director Julie Moncrief explains the workings of the 132-year-old mansion and how its history is kept alive for visitors and students. $7. 1 p.m. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5318 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning Oct. 30, Nov. 6 PLC Communications This class will cover serial and Ethernet communications with the Rockwell SLC 500 and Control Logix PLC platform. Registration is required. $249. 4-8 p.m. UAFS Echols Building, Room 203, 504 North Waldron Road, Fort Smith. 479-788-7742 uafs.edu

Oct. 30 Spookacula True Ghost Hunters Arkansas Ghost Hunters of Crawford County shows its recent findings. If there is suspicious activity in your home, come meet the ones you want to call. Free. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045

Oct. 30-Nov. 11 Microsoft Word 2010 Learn the basics of word processing using Microsoft Word, including formatting, tabs, graphics and tables. $80, includes textbook and flash drive. 5-7:55 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays. Fort Smith Adult Education Center, 501 South 20th Street, Fort Smith. 479-785-1232 adulteducationfortsmith.org October 2013

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Oct. 30-31 Campus Blood Drive Students will get the opportunity to do more than dress up at Halloween time this year – they’ll have the chance to save lives. The blood drive, which is open to the public, includes a T-shirt and a health screening for each donor. Host of the drive, the Arkansas Blood Institute, recommends donors drink water 30 minutes prior to giving blood to reduce dizziness and maintain good circulation throughout the body. Appointments for the blood drive may be made starting Oct. 21 by signing up at a table in the campus center hallway, or by e-mailing studentactivities@uafs.edu or calling. Walk-ins also are welcome. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. UAFS Smith Pendergraft Campus Center, 5210 Grand Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7697 uafs.edu

Oct. 31 Time Management In a three-hour workshop, learn to stop procrastination, use an organizer, avoid saying “yes” when you should be saying “no” and how to take control of your daily clock. Registration required. $59. 8-11 a.m. UAFS BII Building, Room 113, North 50th Street and Grand Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7742 uafs.edu Oct. 31-Nov. 21 Computer Basics Level I Use practical hands-on exercises to learn operating systems, basic applications, how to create, sort and filter files, manage and understand security settings and keyboard shortcuts. $55; partner pricing $40. 2 p.m. Thursdays. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5318 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning Oct. 31-Nov. 21 Intermediate Excel Learn to insert text boxes, tables, charts and clip art; create more elaborate equations and export data into other programs. Completion of Intro to Excel or basic Excel knowledge required. $55. 6 p.m. Thursdays. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5318 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning

Nov. 1-Nov. 3 Where the River Meets the Sea: Retreat Women Empowerment presents a women’s retreat. An intensive, interactive workshop for greater understanding of self and others. There will be a special presentation on EFT (Tapping), co-dependency, personality training and organizing your life. Learning materials included. Reservations required. Contact Kelli Shankle, 479-650-1327, or Helen Hughie, 479831-7874. $89 with lodging and meals; $30 without lodging. St Scholastica Retreat Center, 1301 South Albert Pike Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-650-1327 Nov. 2 Reptile Mania! Snake enthusiasts Brad Birchfield and Jeremy Sloan present live reptiles from their collection of native venomous and non-venomous snakes and a rescued juvenile alligator.Free. 1-3 p.m. Lake Fort Smith State Park, 15458 Shepherd Springs Road, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-2469 Nov. 2 Basic Cake Decorating Learn to make a cake as pretty as the pros. This course designed for those who have had little experi72

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS ence in cake decorating but would like to learn. Get introduced to frostings and materials needed to make a cake beautiful. Learn how to fill bags, how to use the versatile star and pencil tips and to craft beautiful flowers to decorate. Fee includes beginning kit. $45. 9 a.m. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5318 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning Nov. 2 Silk Tie to Dye For! Create a gorgeous, one-of-a-kind gift for that special tie-wearing person in your life. Published, award-winning designer Helen Lively guides the class in this ancient art form put to use in new and exciting ways. Learn basic silk-painting techniques to embellish a 100 percent silk charmeuse men’s tie. The class will cover basic silk painting techniques, include all necessary supplies and provide clear, illustrated, color instructions for the project. Silk paint is permanent. Aprons will be provided but accidents do happen. Please dress accordingly. $49. 9 a.m. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5318 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning

Nov. 2 Making Mailing Easy Time to get all those Thanksgiving and Christmas cards sent, but can it be easier this year? Yes. You can use a computer to generate labels or print directly to envelopes with the power of MailMerge. This short class will help you prepare your data, position it and add a flourish or two and have that list done in no time, ready to mail. $25. 9 a.m. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5318 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning Nov. 2 Cooking: Fall Harvest Time Learn a few easy methods for creating warm, welcoming fall meals. Get hands-on in the kitchen with simple ideas to make homemade food a real treat at home. Class size is limited, register early. $55, includes materials. 9 a.m. UAFS Center for Lifelong Learning, 5318 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7220 uafs.edu/lifelonglearning

Nov. 2 Leon Sargent Memorial Fish Fry Leon “Sarge” Sargent was one of Fort Smith’s master fish fry chefs. His tradition of fish frying will continue at Fort Smith Elks Lodge. The all-you-can-eat fish fry will include fish, hush puppies and all the fixin’s, plus homemade desserts. A dessert auction follows the dinner. Robert Kelsey, local solist, will be performing for dancing or listening pleasures. $10. 6 p.m. Fort Smith Elks Lodge No. 341, 5504 Massard Road, Fort Smith. 479-478-1060 elks.org

Nov. 2-3 Immaculate Conception Ladies Auxiliary 44th Annual Holiday Bazaar The bazaar features the Country Store with homemade featherbed rolls, cinnamon buns, pies, cakes, cookies, candies and more. Shop for holiday giving: wreaths, ornaments, needlework, quilts, dolls, arts and craft gifts. Also enjoy the children’s booth, jewelry, rada knives, casseroles-to-go, silent auction and raffle. Lunch will be available Saturday. 9 a.m. to 3p.m. Nov. 2; 8 a.m.-noon Nov. 3. Free. 9 a.m. Immaculate Conception Parish Center, North 13th and Garrison Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-648-8675

October 2013

Entertainment Fort Smith

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DINING GUIDE

TASTE

OF FORT SMITH

et a plate and get in line! The 26th annual Taste of Fort Smith is presented by the Altrusa Club on Oct. 29. The popular one-day event is an enormous smorgasbord of the area’s finest food and beverage sampling from as many as 50 vendors. It’s an eat-until-you-can’t extravaganza. This year’s goal is to raise more than $25,000 during the two, twohour sessions. Recipients will include the Literacy Council of Western Arkansas and Crawford County Volunteers for Literacy. Additional donations will be made to the Fort Smith Public Library, Hamilton House Child & Family Safety Center, Community Services Clearinghouse of Fort Smith, CASA of Crawford County and Project Compassion. A ticket is good for either session: lunch, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., or dinner, 5-7 p.m. Adults and children, age 6 and older, may buy as many tickets as they wish to attend either or both sessions. Tickets are available in advance at any Simmons First National Bank location or the Fort Smith Chamber of Commerce until noon the day of the event. Tickets are $12 advance; $15 at the door 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Fort Smith Convention Center, Rogers Avenue and South 9th Street, Fort Smith. 479-629-8852.

Local restaurants and businesses will be offering samplings during both lunch and dinner.

October 2013

Entertainment Fort Smith

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DINING GUIDE

Entertainment Fort Smith

October 2013

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DINING GUIDE

October 2013

Entertainment Fort Smith

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The mission of the Fort Smith Public Schools is to ensure academic and personal success for each student

– Today and in the Future

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Student Achievement

Hard work pays off for Fort Smith teams

annual report

– 2

hile winning is not a foreign concept at Northside and Southside High Schools, capturing three State Championships in a single school year is a particular point of pride for any city. Northside’s Lady Bear basketball and Grizzly men’s soccer teams, along with Southside’s Quiz Bowl team all brought 7A State Titles home to Fort Smith during the 2012-2013 school year. As each team pursued success through varied forms of practice and preparation throughout the course of the school year, one idea seamlessly united every player – hard work pays off. Josh Adams, coach of the Southside Quiz Bowl team, believes the time his players spent preparing for the state tournament played a major role in their success. “The dedication and time my students poured into practicing for this endeavor really paid off,” said Adams. The Rebel Quiz Bowl team won a close match against the defending 7A State Champion Arkansas School for Mathematics, Sciences, and the Arts. Southside correctly answered a challenge question that kept them from going into overtime. Northside’s Head Soccer Coach Mauricio Maciel believes the lessons he teaches his players on the field extend to other facets of their lives, including in the classroom. “Colleges look for hardworking, academically committed athletes,” said Maciel. “Every day we are trying to instill in them that soccer could be an opportunity to higher education.” Coach Maciel emphasized discipline and dedication to his players and the end result was the ultimate title in high school sports. Northside Grizzly soccer defeated the notoriously talented Springdale High School Bulldogs in a sudden death kick off after 80 scoreless minutes of regular play and two scoreless 10-minute overtimes. The 2013 State Championship was the first ever for NHS men’s soccer. Coach Rickey Smith declares that the hours the Northside Lady Bears spend practicing and playing in the off-season have helped build their program significantly. Striving for success on and off the court has become second nature for his team. “We try to improve as a team from August to March and stress individual improvement April through July,” Smith said. “We never stop working toward becoming a better program.” Smith notes that in order to be successful in basketball, his players must first be successful in the classroom. “We make sure new team members realize the importance of working hard in the

THE

classroom from day one at NHS,” Smith stated. The Lady Bears maintained an average 3.32 GPA last season with a 97 percent attendance rate. Northside narrowly escaped the super skilled Southside Lady Rebels during the 7A State Finals, defeating them in overtime by only 5 points. From the hours of preparation to the “down-to-the-wire” game time performances, the citizens of Fort Smith can be proud of these hard working individuals.

COVER:

Sunnymede Elementary School students and their teachers celebrate the opening days of school.

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From the Superintendent

Regardless of rating system – Students demonstrate success in many ways

Dr. Benny Gooden, Superintendent of Schools, addresses District staff at the 2013 General Teachers Meeting in August.

District Distr ict D Demography emography ore R aces TTwo wo or M More Races Native American American 6.5% Ha Native waiian/Pacific Islander Hawaiian/Pacific 2.0% .2% Asian Asian 6.3%

Latino Latino 30.8%

Caucasian Caucasian 42.6%

AfricanAfricanAmerican American 11.6% as of O October ctober 1, 2012

recognized for excellence in musical performance as individuals and as vocal and instrumental ensembles. Facility improvements completed during the past year include a major addition to Chaffin Junior High School and renovations on several campuses. Work continues in the addition/renovation at Woods Elementary School and renovations and system upgrades on several additional campuses. Planning continues for future secondary facilities which can address

challenges of growing student population at all levels. Short-term solutions include an addition to fine arts facilities at Northside High School and Darby Junior High School, as well as an addition to Morrison Elementary School. Attention to safety is a high priority on all school campuses. In addition to video surveillance, the installation of controlled-entry systems at elementary schools enhances school security. Tornado safe rooms at all elementary and junior high schools help to protect students and community against natural disasters. Support from the Fort Smith Police Department and other emergency services also contribute to safe school environments. Adding emphasis to school safety programs, FSPS Transportation was recognized by the Arkansas Association of Pupil Transportation for the safety record of its bus fleet. By utilizing available revenues from a variety of sources, FSPS continues to be financially secure. It is noteworthy that the current rate of local school tax of 36.5 mills has been constant for more than 25 years and is the lowest among Arkansas’ large school districts as well as school districts in the area. Balancing revenue from all sources to address critical needs is a priority. A diverse student population makes Fort Smith schools a reflection of the nation as a whole. The steady growth in student population experienced during the last decade accelerated during 2012-2013. This trend continues to make planning for future needs imperative. Fort Smith Public Schools succeed because of the community support from parents, from business and volunteers. The Board of Education and Administration are committed to helping schools to meet the needs of today’s students while planning for the future educational needs of the community. These qualities continue to distinguish Fort Smith Public Schools as an urban school district addressing the present while focusing on the future. Students of today will be our future tomorrow. We appreciate your support.

Benny L. Gooden, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools

Detailed information regarding individual school performance is available in School Performance Reports at www.FortSmithSchools.org and at the Arkansas Department of Education website at www.arkansased.org/testing/performance_report.html.

annual report

or more than a decade the national obsession has included a focus on more testing, assigned rankings for schools and districts and an array of sanctions – all designed to improve student performance. Whether any of these actions is effective depends on one’s own perspective. When looking at student performance in a variety of ways, the steady progress demonstrated by more than 14,000 FSPS students during 2012-2013 validates the goal of student success – measured by more than a single test. While proficiency and advanced level of academic achievement are primary goals in District schools, changes in the methods of ranking schools during 2012-2013 by the Arkansas Department of Education creates new “winners” and “losers.” Absolute test performance and growth from the prior year are considered, while other methodology changes combine the subgroups of economically disadvantaged, English language learners, and students with disabilities in an attempt to highlight the achievement gap between the total population and the students who historically lag behind. Schools are expected to reduce the gap between these groups significantly. Included in the new comparisons is the high school graduation rate using a federally mandated formula. As in the past – several District schools were classified as “achieving” while others were in some stage of “school improvement.” This designation also includes the District. Functions of the new methodology also inevitably categorize some high achieving schools as “needs improvement.” Progress is measured in many ways for various groups of students. Student performance on Advanced Placement (AP)® courses continues to reflect their preparation for higher education. FSPS graduate ACT® scores are higher than their Arkansas or national counterparts. Awards received by individuals and groups on academic competitions reflect the focused teaching by educators at every level. The importance and success of teaching character and leadership skills are highlighted with Beard Elementary School’s designation as a national Stephen Covey “Lighthouse School.” Competitive success in a variety of student activities provides a balance of opportunities to develop life-long artistic, athletic and relationship skills. FSPS students continue to be

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Student Achievement

Good Choices earn students a seat at

Good Times Cafe

annual report

he “Good Times” are rollin’ at Spradling Elementary School with the implementation of a new positive behavior reinforcement program known as “Good Times Café.” Introduced in the 2012-2013 school year, the initiative rewards students for making good choices, attending school regularly, and working hard in class. Students who meet all of these criteria are invited to attend a special monthly lunch where they can have fun and eat with their friends, teachers and principal. To earn a reservation at the “Good Times Café,” students must maintain near perfect attendance, missing only one day for the month and have no tardies. They also have to make good choices, by having no office referrals and by completing all of their classroom assignments. Teachers keep records each month of the students’ performance and attendance and at the end of the month, students receive their invitation to “Good Times Café.” Lunches are jam-packed with food and fun. After getting a tray, students are allowed to choose their own seat in the café and visit with their friends during mealtime – two things not normally permitted during lunch. Participants also get the chance to boogie with their teachers and sing and dance to tunes such as “The Chicken Dance” and “The Cupid Shuffle.” Tables are set up in the hallways and often themed for the month or upcoming holiday. Door prizes are also awarded. The small rewards range from books and notepads to stuffed animals, glow necklaces and card games. Every attendee gets to select his or her own prize. What has resulted from “Good Times” is a dramatic shift in the overall culture and behavior of the student body. In its first year, office referrals dropped by 40 percent. Daily attendance averages are up, and more students are completing their class assignments and homework. Principal Robyn Dawson is thrilled with the results. In her grant application to the Fort Smith Public Schools Foundation, which funded the program, Dawson wrote that it would “not take long for the joy of attending the ‘Good Times Café’ to spread,” citing that “everyone will want to be a part of this action packed, positive luncheon.” Her prediction was correct. With each month, participation in the café increased, with attendance ranging from 116 to 168 students. “Each month we saw new students become eligible to participate, while retaining many who participated in prior months,” said Dawson. “Overall, more than 40 percent of my population positively benefitted from this program.”

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Retention Data: In 2012-13, 1.06 percent or 81 students in Grades K-6 were retained for academic reasons. A total of 1.23 percent or 27 students in Grades 7 and 8 were retained.

The idea for “Good Times Café” came to Dawson during her first year at Spradling. “I was pulling a few good kids in my office to eat lunch with me and I noticed they seemed to enjoy getting to eat outside of the cafeteria, visiting with me and a few of their friends,” said Dawson. “We just had casual conversation and laughed a lot. Soon, many were asking to eat with me in my office, asking, “If I am good today, can I eat lunch with you tomorrow?” Dawson decided to build on the idea and implement it school-wide. One unique feature of “Good Times Café” is that it takes place during the regularly scheduled lunch period, so as to not interfere with afterschool family activities or take away from instructional time in the classroom. Another key component of the program is that it focuses on making good choices, rather than simply on making good grades. This criteria gives more students the opportunity to participate. Dawson noted, ”Good Times is not based on grades, so everyone, even our low achieving students, can earn a reservation to the ‘Good Times Café’ with hard work and good choices.” Because of the positive impact that the initiative has had on the students, school leaders have opted to continue the program in the 2013-2014 school year. Dawson is excited to see how her new students will respond to the program and how many new and familiar faces will join her for the lunch each month. “The impact of this program in the classroom, attendance and overall behavior has been stunning,” said Dawson. “I love the quality time I get to spend with the kids and that I get to give them some real face time. Most importantly, it gives me another opportunity to simply tell them thanks for being a great kid!”

School Choice: Only .21 percent of students entered the Fort Smith Public Schools as a result of the Arkansas School Choice Act. Less than .10 percent exited the District under the same law.

School Completion: 226 students were recorded in the Report of the Number of Students Being Removed from the Pupil Attendance Rolls as “Drop-Outs.” This number, which represents 3.63 percent of the FSPS secondary enrollment, includes 80 students who enrolled in the GED program administered through the Fort Smith Public Schools Adult Education Center. The GED pass rate for these students generally exceeds 90 percent.

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Student Achievement

Common Core Promotes Achievement

State-required Benchmark tests and End of Course tests measure the achievement and progress of every student in Arkansas schools. The ACT® is a test for students who plan to enter higher education upon graduation, while AP® exams are College Board tests associated with the standard AP® curriculum in classes pursued at District high schools. In each of these areas, the overall trend reflects improving performance across the Fort Smith Public Schools.

ACT 2013 American College Test

21.6

20.2

20.9

Fort Smith Students

Arkansas Students

US Students

AP® (Advanced Placement ) ®

• 17 AP Courses offered in FSPS Grades 10-12 • 16 Pre-AP® Courses offered in FSPS Grades 8-12 (Pre-AP® Algebra I is offered as a course option for 8th-Grade Students)

909 FSPS Students took 1,730 Tests • Student Tests with scores of 3, 4 or 5 Fort Smith - 44 percent Arkansas - 34 percent

Fort Smith Benchmark Scores Total Population Grades 3-8 and EOC (End of Course) – Percentage of Advanced or Proficient Scores

Math 3 Literacy 3 Math 4 Literacy 4 Math 5 Literacy 5 Math 6 Literacy 6 Math 7 Literacy 7 Math 8 Literacy 8 EOC EOC EOC Literacy Algebra Geometry

annual report

ince the dawn of educational systems, virtually every institution has implemented its own method of grading student achievement. The lack of a uniform evaluation scale has ultimately resulted in an educational gap between children around the world. While students continue to improve, others fall behind in educational attainment. With rapidly increasing technological advances, educators and community leaders around the world began identifying a need for a concise and consistent method of measuring achievement. Common Core State Standards (CCSS) was introduced in 2009. Many states, including Arkansas, adopted Common Core within a month of the formal announcement in 2010. Before Common Core, student test data could only be compared to those of other schools across the state. State-to-state curriculum and tests were at the very least dissimilar. This meant that standards for each grade level varied greatly by state. Since its introduction in FSPS in 2010, CCSS is already making an impact. In the first three years, the District has introduced a comprehensive digital literacy program and an intensive training program for K-6 teachers. Secondary schools have begun creating Modules, creative units of study that include multiple units of CCSS in one project. Teachers and administrators in the District have seen improvement in the achievement of their students. English teacher Debbie Barclay of Chaffin Junior High has seen test scores improve in just one year. “Seven of my students moved from basic to proficient on Benchmark exams in just one year under CCSS and will no longer have remediation classes in eighth grade,” said Barclay. Principal Todd Marshell of Chaffin Junior High is encouraged by the “synergy” created between his staff through Common Core. “Teachers are planning together to create Modules that are making learning more relevant for our students,” he said. Dr. Barry Owen, FSPS Assistant Superintendent for Instructional Services, believes the skills taught with CCSS will aid in preparing students for the future. He said, “Common Core places a stronger focus on college and career readiness.” Owen explained that as part of the process of further developing Common Core, the Fort Smith Public Schools have been chosen to pilot an electronic assessment in the Spring of 2014. “Arkansas is a member of the Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers (PARCC). This multi-state consortium is working to develop assessments for the Common Core standards,” said Owen. “The Spring pilot test is designed to look for potential technical issues which might occur in an electronic format for student assessments going forward.” Superintendent Dr. Benny Gooden believes as CCSS standards are fully implemented at every level, the results should be seen in students who are able to relate academic content and skills across subject areas and to apply them to real world situations. He said, “Teaching with greater rigor and higher expectations for every student will make competition in a global job environment possible. This is what ‘college and career readiness’ is about.”

Steady Trends Upward

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YOUR DOLLAR

Financing schools requires balance

IN THE FORT

2012-13 Per Student Expenditure –

s the educational needs in the Fort Smith Public Schools grow, the challenge of a limited revenue base makes it essential to balance revenue sources against rising costs. From facility needs to staff salaries, making school dollars stretch to cover demands requires a balanced approach which uses many options. Using a combination of funds from local property taxes, state revenues and federal categorical funds to address the instructional support demands of a complex school program requires the careful attention to detail to assure compliance with all federal and state rules while ensuring an efficient operation. The graphical representation of how revenues and expenditures are allocated reveals the prudent use of resources within mandatory parameters. The use of a variety of financing tools to support capital needs have allowed FSPS to address facility requirements within the available revenue stream. This practice has maintained and improved the community investment in school buildings while keeping buildings appropriate for today’s needs. FSPS received a total of $19,306 from commissions based on a competitive beverage vending contract during 2012-2013. These revenues continue to decline as restrictions on the sale of beverages by schools become tighter.

The current rate of local school tax of 36.5 mills has been constant since 1987.

In 2012-2013, 100 percent of the 1,118 educators in the District were fully licensed to teach in their subject areas.

annual report

In 2012-2013, 87 FSPS teachers were certified by the National Board of Professional Teaching Standards.

2012-2013 Federal Other 13% Local* 38% State 49%

*Approximately 2/3 of local revenues are controlled by the state in accordance with Amendment 74 and Act 917 of 1995

from 2003-2012

Fort Smith Public School teachers participate in a rigorous program of content-focused professional development each year. Arkansas licensure requirements mandate 60 hours annually, but teachers accumulate many more than what is required.

–

Fort Smith Public Schools Actual Revenues

District Enrollment

Highly Qualified Staff

During the 2012-2013 school year, the certified staff education data demonstrated that 53.31 percent of District educators hold a bachelor’s degree. This number includes teachers who have accumulated up to 36 additional credit hours beyond their undergraduate degree. Educators holding a master’s through master’s plus 30 hours make up 44.72 percent of the certified staff population. Educators who have earned a doctoral degree equal 1.97 percent of the certified group.

SMITH PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Actual Expenditures by Object 2012-2013 Supplies & Materials 12%

Other* 5%

Purchased Services 4% Employee Benefits 17%

Salaries 62%

TEACHING AND LEARNING Classroom Instruction . . . . . . . . . 55¢ Auxiliary Instruction/ Support Services . . . . . . . . . . . 16¢ • • • • •

Literacy & Math Specialists Guidance & Counseling Library Media Services Nursing Services Speech/Occupational/ Physical Therapy • Adult Education/Preschool

Instruction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71¢ PROGRAM SUPPORT School Meal Services . . . . . . . . . . 5¢ Transportation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2¢ Utilities, Maintenance & Central Support . . . . . . . . . . 12¢ District & Campus Administration . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6¢ Debt Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3¢ Capital Outlay. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1¢ Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29¢

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1.00

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Safe and Healthy Schools

Parent & Community Involvement

PTA enhances student experience or well over a century, the Parent Teacher Association has promoted community involvement in thousands of schools across the nation. Originally founded in 1897 as the National Congress of Mothers, the program has evolved to become an interactive resource that unites parents more closely with happenings in the schools of their children. Charles Warren, Director of Financial Services for the Fort Smith School District, was recently elected President of the Parent Teacher Association for the State of Arkansas. Warren said the driving force behind the PTA is to support and enhance a child’s educational success. “Parent involvement is a positive influence that can drive a student to success,” said Warren. “PTA provides an opportunity for parents to become more involved in their child’s education.” Elected presidents lead the 26 local units affiliated with the Fort Smith Council of PTAs. From family nights to holiday events, the PTA is involved in many different ways at each school. Shannon Neves, PTA President at Beard Elementary School, believes the most important part of PTA is community involvement. “Without the volunteers who help PTA, many of our activities such as Family Fun Night would not be possible,” said Neves. Neves stated that PTA board members meet at least once every other month to discuss upcoming events. The Beard Elementary PTA, like other units, plans and executes several events throughout the year that promote family interaction and involvement including activities such as “Santa Shop,” “Skate Night” and “Fun Day”. Beyond the tremendous impact that an active PTA unit has on the school and community, the collection of PTAs in the state and nation advocates for children and families throughout the United States. Dr. Deanie Mehl and Ms. Jeannie Cole, current members of the Fort Smith Public Schools Board of Education, held statelevel positions in the Arkansas PTA in addition to their responsibilities as local unit leaders. Their experiences with the school board and PTAs strengthens the District because of their wide-reaching influence. For information on how to become a member of a local unit of PTA, visit the membership page on the Arkansas PTA website at arkansaspta.org/Membership

Controlled access increases campus security

annual report

pon arrival, visitors to elementary campuses throughout the District may notice a slight change in how they enter the school building. FSPS has installed controlled-access systems at each of the elementary schools in an effort to increase security and better protect students and staff. During school hours, all doors on campus, including the main entrance, will remain locked. Visitors will be required to “buzz” the office in order to be granted access to the building. Guests will be asked to check-in at the front desk and sign in and out on the visitor log. As an extra security measure, some campuses are also being renovated to route visitors into the main office before they can enter the hallway or main area of the school building. “Effective access control systems in our elementary schools will help us improve safety for our students and staff,” said Eric Huber, FSPS Safety and Security Supervisor. “Controlling access into the school is certainly one of our first lines of defense where we can prevent potentially threatening or dangerous situations.” Installation is complete and in use in 18 elementary schools. One campus currently is undergoing major construction and renovation. This controlled access system will be installed during the final stages of the project. Video surveillance also plays a key role in school safety and in monitoring campus activity. Cameras are mounted at the main entrance of every school and center, and at various locations throughout the buildings. Tornado safe rooms are also fitted with surveillance equipment that can be remotely accessed by the District administration. “We have more than 800 cameras monitoring campuses throughout the District,” said J.D. Mayo, FSPS Video Surveillance Specialist. “We have plans to install an additional 50-60 units in the coming school year.” For more information about campus security, visit www.fortsmithschools.org/StudentsSchools/StudentServices/SchoolSafety.

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Kindergartner Charlynn Windham gets help from Thad Crawford, Sykes Enterprises, in selecting her milk as she makes her way through the lunch line. During the first week of school, volunteers from Sykes and Rheem, Orr Elementary School’s Partners in Education, assisted by opening milk cartons and helping students to navigate through the cafeteria.

FSPS Activities

School Board Fact

Athletics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,704 Band . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,479 Cheerleading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106 Choral Music . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 976 Drill Team . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117 JROTC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119 Orchestra . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 454 Forensics/Drama . . . . . . . . . . . .264 Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5,219

Fort Smith Public School Board members documented 141 hours in Arkansas School Board training. Arkansas ACA 6-13-629 requires that each member attend at least six hours per year. All seven board members have completed this requirement.

Fort Smith Public Schools offer a variety of activities that encourage students to become a part of a group or groups that develop and refine personal and team skills and habits. These activities also make school more memorable.

FSPS Board Meetings The Fort Smith Public School District is governed by a seven-member Board of Education. Four members are elected by zone while three are elected in at-large positions. School board meetings are held on the fourth Monday of each month at 5:30 p.m. in the Service Center Auditorium, located in Building B of the Service Center Complex, 3205 Jenny Lind Road. The meetings are open to the public.

School Board

Administration

David Hunton, M.D., President Jeannie Cole, Vice-President Deanie Mehl, Ph.D., Secretary Yvonne Keaton-Martin Susan McFerran Russell Owen Wyman R. Wade, Jr., Esq.

Benny L. Gooden, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools Gordon C. Floyd, Ed.D. Deputy Superintendent

Annette Henderson, Ed.D. Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources and Support Services Barry Owen, Ed.D. Assistant Superintendent for Instructional Services

The Fort Smith Public Schools Annual Report is a publication of the Fort Smith Public School District. P.O. Box 1948 • Fort Smith, AR 72902-1948 • (479) 785-2501 • (479) 785-1722 fax • In compliance with federal nondiscrimination laws, the Fort Smith Public School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, genetic information or disability in its employment and educational practices. If you have questions regarding the professional qualifications of your child’s teachers or paraprofessionals, you are encouraged to ask Dr. Annette Henderson, Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources and Support Services. • Le invitamos a que hable con la Dra. Annette Henderson si usted tiene alguna pregunta sobre las capacitaciones profesionales de los maestros o asistentes de maestros de sus hijos