EDITOR’S NOTES
What I learned in kindergarten – and junior high and high school, right now
Editorial Staff LYNN WASSON Editor & Publisher lynnwasson@efortsmith.com DONNA PAYNE Senior Editor donnapayne@efortsmith.com Contributing Photographers GLENN GILLEY CHRIS HA McFARLAND PHOTOGRAPHY Interactive Story Editor JOE WASSON joe@efortsmith.com
Advertising Sales LINDA GILHAM lgilham@efortsmith.com 479-629-0235 CHARLES G. HUBBARD charleshubbard@efortsmith.com 479-831-3995 Bookkeeping JULIE BERCH HAMILTON accounts@efortsmith.com © 2020 eFortSmith.com Media, Inc.
efortsmith.com is the website of Entertainment Fort Smith Magazine, where current and past issues may be viewed as a replica of the printed magazine.
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Entertainment Fort Smith
October 2020
Entertainment Fort Smith has exactly one official membership to a civic organization. We are a Partner in Education to the Fort Smith Public School District. From our very first issue in August 2000, my late friend and co-publisher Linda Seubold was deeply committed that we would become a “partner,” a business that supports our public schools. We arranged to make our partnership not with a particular school, but with the school district overall and that our contribution would be to communicate, at least once a year, a highly visible focus on local schools. And so we have. It is a privilege and, usually, a chance to show innovation, achievement and success. This year, writing about our schools is tougher. At this time of uncertainty over the current threat to public health from COVID-19, public schools are in a dilemma: How can students safely attend school? How safe will children be if they can’t? How will they learn? Parents and educators anguish over the same questions. But for Arkansas public schools, hypotheticals became moot when the state’s Department of Education announced schools would open for in-person attendance in the fall semester. Our school district offers a slate of options and provides full instruction and support for all the options: Students may be educated totally at home; students may “flex” by attending school in person along with home study; or students may attend school in person, daily, with the understanding that a rise in positive cases may cause health authorities to send everyone home to continue their classes remotely until they can return to school. In this atmosphere, teachers reported to their schools in summer and committed to in-person instruction. Then, they rapidly trained to use completely new tools and means of instruction. On the spot, they re-worked their lesson plans and classroom styles. PLUS they learned new safety restrictions and procedures and altered their own school buildings and classrooms. So, here’s what I learned in kindergarten (at Cook Elementary), at Darby Junior High and from visiting the band program at Northside High School: Teachers, staff and administrators are working their very hardest to make kids safe and they stew with a sense of responsibility.
No educator would ever claim to love children more than parents love their own kids. Many of them are parents, themselves. But in a collective and all-inclusive way, educators do, truly, love and feel the deepest responsibility for the wellbeing of all students. Public schools are open. Because of that, every person from Fort Smith district administrative officials to principals, to classroom teachers and staff, to office workers and facilities staff – every one of them – are trying their very best to create the safest atmosphere possible for students. I suppose what I’m trying to do is witness their dedication to our readers, if you have not seen it for yourselves. Educators are on their own kind of “front line” right now. Just as we are bearing a greater awareness of health care professionals, I suggest we give increased respect to every adult who works at school. Especially our local schools. As for students – we let the educators we interviewed describe them. From kindergarten to high school, students are trying their best, as well. They are complying. They are wearing their masks and washing their hands and, as best as they can for their youth, they are “mindful of their own germs,” as Cook’s kindergartners say. I have so much (increased) respect for them. And to parents keeping students home, all respect to you, as well. Our focus on in-person school intends no slight to you. We respect and have great empathy for your families. We support you and your students, too! “Entertainment” is our title but we have, since our inception, meant to serve as a mirror on the city and region we serve. This cover subject is a serious one, but know there is still humor, joy and positive spirit in our schools. Elsewhere in the magazine, we again salute the inventiveness of those continuing to provide enjoyable events and services to the public. Life goes on – if you haven’t yet, try a virtual event found in these pages. So much creative effort is going on! And, please stay connected with us online through our website, efortsmith.com, and our Facebook presence, where we can publish updates and current information when necessary. Be safe and stay well. – Lynn Wasson
CONTENTS
OCTOBER 2020
features
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Kindergartners can do it
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What School Is Like, Now Visiting kindergarten, junior high and high school in Fort Smith shows how everyone is doing their best with challenging changes. By Lynn Wasson
New mural appears, sparked by the Unexpected’s legacy Buildings are still bursting out in art, but this time in commercial locations. A new work by Bryan Alexis is seen.
Head ‘em up, move ‘em out on Massard Road Change is coming to a cattle pasture on a busy corridor. Its owner saw it coming for more than a decade.
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Profile: The Drs. Hendrickson retire
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J.P. Bell left us something eternal
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These longtime Fort Smith pediatricians have made an appointment for the future and they’re open to more worldly adventures.
After the death of our good friend, his beautiful photography consoles.
Remembering “Mr. Earl” An especially entertaining personality has left the stage.
A natural state mural
departments
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WHAT’S COOKING October is for sweet or savory treats, especially if they’re spooky.
eve n t s
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Boo! Halloween recipes
Entertainment Fort Smith
October 2020
EVENTS FOR KIDS CALENDAR OF EVENTS
On the cover: A kindergarten student plays in her own space at Cook Elementary. Photo by Glenn Gilley.
School’s Different This Year How students, teachers and administrators create strategies to carry on
Kindergartners master more than their teachers expected
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s a 35-year career kindergarten teacher, Cami Stancil, like so many early education professionals, especially, keenly hoped to have the opportunity to teach her small students in person this school year. Her voice alone conveyed powerful emotion in a phone interview. “Being here is what it is all about and everyone here will do everything that anyone can do to keep these children safe,” she stressed. Speaking at the end of the first month of school, she reported that kindergarten is going “very well” at Cook Elementary, while she is happily “exhausted.” She has been amazed at her young students. “We’re asking so much of them,” she explained, in staying within their own personal spaces. Kindergarten is a time of circles. This year, each child has their own number to identify assigned seating and the floor is marked in squares. “They use that number to find and sit on their own spaces on the floor, when they line up at recess and for arrival and dismissal, so obviously – that’s different,” she laughed.
But she’s realizing that may be more different to teachers than for the children. It’s all new to them! They are accepting new safety procedures as well as they’re accepting the new experience of being in kindergarten. Some of her before-school worries were needless. She admittedly couldn’t picture 5-year-olds doing very well at wearing facecoverings. “They have really rocked their masks!” Stancil said. “I may have one or two I have to remind to pull up their mask. But overall, the kids have gone above and beyond any expectation I had for wearing a mask for almost 80 percent of their day.” When seated at their own desks, which are spaced as far apart as the classroom space allows, children may take off their masks for quiet tasks. They all wear a lanyard to clip the masks on. While Stancil misses the learning stations that formerly stood around the room, such as a reading corner or science area, the children adapt to exploring those activities in other ways. And they will do it without handling the same materials.
Squirt, squirt, squirt. Hand hygiene is a routine that happens many times a day.
Kindergartners can! Kids are learning to keep the correct distance apart, line up by number and keep masks on.
Each student has plastic tubs with their own math “manipulatables,” crayons and materials for different activities each day. Some kindergarten classics – sitting on the carpet (spaced apart, on their numbers, masked) to hear stories read aloud is still possible. Playing together while sharing blocks or toys is not permitted, but playing in the same way beside nearby child can be fun. Stancil really misses hugs. Instead, there are heartfelt “air hugs, high fives and thumbs up.” Her class is “on track” in the learning plan and will begin to use personal laptops this month. Stancil said the children comply with washing or sanitizing their hands many times a day and discuss and understand “being mindful of our own germs.” Each child uses personal water bottles. Parental cooperation with new safety procedures has been excellent, she said. “I had my fears that we were not going to make it a month,” she admitted. She is proud of everyone, parents, children, teachers and staff, for working hard to be as safe as possible. “It’s been extremely difficult and so exhausting, but students are here and they are learning! Everyone in education has a positive mindset that we can continue to do more and more to keep these kids safe,” she said.
Students spread out while teachers are tighter than ever
O
ur teacher collaboration now, at Darby but also districtwide, is at an all-time high,” said principal Katie Kreimer Hall, describing this challenging school semester after school has been in session almost one month. “I have been in awe of what teachers have been able to do and change within just a short amount of time,” she added. Welcoming students back inside school buildings was the second stage of the most profound and swift changes educators have ever been called upon to make. The first stage happened before school began. The act of teaching, itself, had to be completely re-adapted to today’s public health circumstances. “I had a very veteran teacher say, ‘I feel like I am a first-year teacher this year.’ Even our best teachers are having to relearn or reinvent what they do in the classroom,” the principal said. While administrators and staff drew up safer ways for students to arrive, depart and move through schools, teachers collaborated on what students would be taught – and how. The “how” relies heavily on technology. While Fort Smith Public School District has almost completed phasing in a “1:1” program – one personal computer device per student – the COVID-19 pandemic makes it imperative. Likewise, teachers who have been gradually including devices in their instructions had to adjust to their daily use – immediately. The district chose a platform, “Schoolology,” that every educator learned to use before school began and every student is now using on their district-issued Chromebooks. “Our teachers are still presenting lessons like they have in the past; walking around giving feedback to kids,” Kreimer Hall said, “but instead of handing a student a worksheet, we have uploaded the worksheet. Teachers can make interactive worksheets and lessons.” Instead of stacking written papers on a teacher’s desk, students save documents into teachers’ digital folders. Within subject departments, such as English or mathematics, and within grade levels, teachers have collaborated to make lessons more consistent and effective, the principal said. “Teachers meet weekly at Darby and I know at Ramsey and Kimmons,” Kreimer Hall said. “During a schoolday, it is not uncommon to see them meeting in the classroom during lunch, in twos and threes.” As their principal, she does everything she can to support them.
Students, she said, are outstanding in their acceptance of everything that is new. Junior high students, she emphasized, as a person who really loves kids of that age. “Our students have been great. We haven't had any trouble with students keeping masks on – they may be better than adults,” she said in praise. “Junior high kids just want to talk and want to be social. It's harder to keep them away from each other before school, after school or after lunch. You'll see them kind of group up, but they always have their masks on and they're quick to separate when reminded.” “We made it very clear up front that teachers need to communicate why we're doing what we're doing,” she said. “Students understand what's going on and I think they understand the concern and caution and seriousness.” “Before students were on campus, we thought All students have school-provided laptops.
about procedures and practices we needed to change, and we did. Doors are now enter or exit only and stairwells are up or down only. We like them - we'll probably keep them that way.” “Lunch was a challenge. We'll feed 200-250 who use the school cafeteria. They eat one at a table in the lunchroom, the tornado shelter and at picnic tables in the courtyard,” she said. Students sit in the gym for the rest of a lunch period. Even with an additional factor of ongoing construction, Darby is doing well, she said. “Our people come here and truly give school the best they have,” Kreimer Hall said, with a rise of pride in her voice. “In the spring, when we went to online instruction, it happened overnight! I'll admit, we struggled. Because at that time, our technology skills were good, but I wouldn't say they were great. And now, our teachers have learned so much and we are so much better.” Water fountains have been converted to bottle-filling taps.
Principal Katie Kreimer Hall in the Darby lunchroom, with students one to a table.
Trombones get 9 feet; flutes, 12 Measure by measurement, directors lead their bands
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ho better than band directors to enforce a specific distance between students? But, how can they teach students who, because of precautions, can almost never play together in one space? Music programs – band, choir and orchestra – have the largest class sizes in junior high and high schools. The band directors of Northside High School and Darby and Kimmons junior high schools who teach these popular programs as a team sat in a precisely spaced circle in the NHS Fine Arts building to explain how they are teaching band in a pandemic while protecting the health of their students. They sat exactly 12 feet apart, as the floor is gridded with a white, taped “X” every 6 feet. Band classes must follow extremely detailed state guidelines, down to the specs that trombone players require 9 feet of spacing and flute players should be 12 feet apart. With band sizes of more than 200 kids, the only place a whole band can assemble is outdoors, head director Gordon Manley explained. This summer, faculty had to devise strategies from how to divide the huge classes into groups of permitted sizes, to how to make masks through which players could blow into their instruments. But first – and foremost to this caring team – they wanted to see how their students were doing or if they would even return to school in person. “March was the last time I saw my band,” Aaron Durham of NHS explained, recalling the sudden school closings in the spring semester. The directors around the circle all nodded, remembering the shock of the emergency closure. “Out of 300+ kids, we got them out the door 10
Entertainment Fort Smith
October 2020
with instruments,” director Adam Coats added. “We thought they’d be back after spring break.” Instead, school buildings remained closed through the end of the school year. As with all teachers, the music programs scrambled to teach their classes virtually. Teaching remotely, completing normal spring band curriculum was next to impossible. They improvised. Angie Clark, director of the Darby band, said staying connected was their goal. “We wound up holding (virtual) group meetings on Mondays, with 120-130 on a meeting at a time. We played together a little, but it was really more of a check-in than instruction.” “Our biggest concern was the emotional wellbeing of our kids,” added Gabby Chandler, who also teaches the Darby band. “Our bands love to play together and they love each other. We tried to give them a sense of normalcy in such an unstructured and unsure time.” Of about 300 kids at Darby, Clark and Chandler said about 80 percent stayed connected through the end of the spring semester. “My surprise was it wasn’t always kids not doing well in school who disappeared. Some of the kids we didn’t hear from were high-achieving ones,” Chris Ha, director at Kimmons. “A stark realization to me was that it was band that brought some of the kids to school,” Manley said. “I was shocked by the number of kids we lost touch with.” But the team kept several band social media sites active during the summer. They were delighted to discover solo musical performances their students posted.
“They would make videos of themselves, even accompanying themselves,” Durham said. “We created a hashtag, #grizzlybandcovidjam.” Using recording apps, some students played duets or even quartets, playing all the parts. “It was a glimpse into their world,” Durham said, “– of how creating music is such a valuable part of their lives.” Ha explained that Fort Smith Public Schools’ band program made a free subscription to an online music library available to students. “A lot of kids went on that program and found music on their own. Some were quite complex and difficult,” he said. “That’s a direct reflection of our philosophy, teaching kid to love music and to take it however far they can go with it,” Manley said. “We’re not that interested in teaching them only how to play a part, but how to find a love of music.” When band educators officially returned to work in the middle of July, the June 1 guidelines from the Arkansas Department of Health applied: Bands were allowed to march, but prohibited from playing instruments together. Traditional summer band practice simply didn’t happen for junior highs. The high schools held a combination of virtual and in-person summer practice. When high school students came in person for marching practice and team-building, the directors immediately realized they would have to teach fundamentals of following safety rules first. “The first night, the kids hadn’t seen each other since March,” Durham said. “We had to figure out how to teach them to stay apart!” At that time, daily screenings were mandated
before students could attend - asking each person if they had symptoms; any contact with people who had tested positive or were ill; and taking forehead temperatures. Those protocols were refined during summer band time, as they were still being developed by the state Health Department and Department of Education. Band and athletic programs were early tests. Unanticipated questions arose. Faculty erred on the side of caution and referred to the activities director and board of health for guidance. Such as it was, summer was little preparation for the start of the school year. Directors had made strategies. There were the aforementioned distances between instruments, custom masks and bell covers. But there were more requirements. Divided into smaller groups, students may play together, inside, for 30 minutes, followed by a 20minute break to air out the room. The large NHS band had to be divided into four groups. Fortunately, Northside has a newer Fine Arts building. With two big rehearsal spaces, the puzzle of shuffling four groups during one class period can be managed. That includes a turn outdoors. Even indoors, students stand to play to cut down chair-sanitizing time. At the junior highs, the divisions of one band rehearse apart in the fine arts rooms, cafeterias and tornado shelters. At all schools, the entire band can only perform together on the field. “Whatever we have to do to keep our students safe,” is the faculty’s mantra. Directors remind one another to be safe, as well. While they give their students high marks for complying with new rules, the adults have to change their own norms. “I just didn’t realize how much we touch the students’ instruments,” Clark said. “It’s hard to help a beginning clarinet without wiggling their instrument’s headpiece or adjusting a player’s fingers.” Directors also are used to taking an instrument from a student’s hands to fix or adjust it. “That’s just the nature of education in general,” she said. “If a kid needs help, you help them.” In a regular school year, bands would be marching a full halftime show at home football games and rehearsing for a fall marching contest. NHS has learned a show and performed at one game, with less than the full band, due to distancing requirements. Any game, or the marching contest, could be cancelled. Always staying positive, the directors said they are coping with these circumstances by encouraging individual musicianship. “We have excited kids who are excited to play, regardless of what season it is,” Clark said. “The band we do have is awesome,” Manley said proudly.
Band directors in Fort Smith Public Schools teach as a team, teaching at more than one school. Their primary assignments are: Gordon Manley - Head Band Director, NHS Aaron Durham - Band Director, NHS Adam Coats - Band Director, Kimmons Chris Ha - Band Director, Kimmons Angie Clark - Band Director, Darby Gabby Chandler - Band Director, Darby PHOTOS BY CHRIS HA
Saxophone bell cover.
A distanced woodwind rehearsal at Kimmons Junior High.
Manley’s envelope bucket - with disinfectant.
Clarinet bell covers and masks. October 2020
Entertainment Fort Smith
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A mural appears, born of Unexpected influence In a year without an Unexpected project, it’s notable that a mural has been commissioned from local artist Bryan Alexis. As an art instructor at the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith, Alexis led students, by invitation of the Unexpected, to create three downtown murals. With student artists, he took part in the installations depicting the printer Johannes Gutenberg on North B Street; jazz artist Alphonso Trent on North Second Street and the double-decker bus at The Park at Westend. He also designed and led the creation of a mural for the UAFS Alumni Center on the corner of Waldron Road and Greenwood Avenue.
Alexis in a selfie with two of his crew artists. The mural is located on Ayers Road.
“Fort Smith has seen the Unexpected project drive a creative economy here,” he said. “I think that’s a noble and worthy reason to make that kind of an effort.” This commission was for Fort Cannabis Co., a licensed medical marijuana dispensary. Owner Jeff Scholtes asked him to create around the theme of nature, purposely local. The artist’s design depicts mockingbirds, the official state bird, with apple blossoms, the state flower. “We wanted it all connected to Arkansas, for a sense of place,” Alexis said. Six different honeybees fly through the mural, each with individual work by his crew of artists, most who have been his students.
October 2020
Entertainment Fort Smith
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Pasture to PZD: Growth on Massard Road
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hange soon will surprise drivers whizzing down five-lane Massard Road between Rogers Avenue and Zero Street. Some 40 acres of pastureland, now grazed by Angus cattle, will begin to take shape as Massard Business Park, a Planned Zoning District. The development will feature attractive retail, commercial and residential development, plus natural areas with woods, water and trails. Cliff Cabaness had this vision a decade ago when he and his wife, Marcy, bought the acreage. “It was a land investment and we intended to run horses and cattle on it,” he said. “But we knew to the south of the property was the largest economic development in town. We knew the traffic would escalate in this corridor.” As Chaffee Crossing industry, education, homes and commerce grew, Cabaness watched Phoenix Avenue and the Rogers/Massard corner fill in, until the time was right to launch this project. Cabanass has partnered with Steve Gann and Todd Mooney in an LLC, in association with Risley Architecture and others professionals. Three parcels on the Massard Road frontage are already spoken for. Git along, little dogies. 14
Entertainment Fort Smith
October 2020
Appointment with the future
Longtime pediatricians turn to what’s next in life
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on and Denise Hendrickson were an oddity when they began their ostracized and, finally, because of all these medical missions, it was an careers. The longtime Fort Smith pediatricians met at a Bible study opportunity to see that people did care and they showed love and group while in medical school in Kansas City, Kan., and married compassion and they did help,” Jon said. while she was in her final semester of medical school and he was a first“Because we had been there and had a clinic, then they accepted him year resident in pediatrics at Children’s Mercy in Kansas City. and he was able to start a church in his home village,” Denise said. “We were one of the first husband-and-wife medical teams and they It is now an active, growing church. really didn’t know what to do with us,” Jon said. “They put us on call Typically, their mission trips include 10-12 people, including dentists, different nights but we were on call every third night and that didn’t work nurses and doctors. They see and treat all manner of illness and ages, not out at all.” just children. Their daughter often does translation work when Sadio visits “They didn’t care about that,” Denise said. “But we did!” Jon chimed in. churches in this area. Residents’ hours were not limited at It has been life changing for the that time. couple to see how the villagers live and “You were working 36 hours, off 12 to see other cultures. And they are and back to work,” he said. “We would continually amazed how God is at work in the neonatal nursery with work in Western African. people on ventilators and we’d go down “We saw a baby that was 2 months to the ER and admit people with old, had fever and was unresponsive meningitis,” Jon said. “It was incredibly and dying. A missionary prayed over intense.” the baby that God would be glorified After graduation, the pediatricians and 20 minutes later the baby was joined a clinic in Newton, Kan., but normal,” Jon said, still amazed. when a major employer left the city, the “Somebody gave us an extra $100 birthrate dropped by 30 percent. They because God told me to give you this left their families and moved with their because you’ll need it. One of the first two children to Fort Smith in 1989 to people I saw, a little girl, 13, had join Drs. Louay Nassri and Thomas Drs. Jon (above) and Denise Hendrickson care for children appendicitis out in nowhere. We were Jefferson at Holt-Krock Clinic. They 21⁄2 hours away from a hospital,” Jon during mission trip to West Africa. opened their current clinic, Pediatric said. “They didn’t have any money but Partners, 16 years ago. we said we’ll take her anyway. She “Back in the day, we worked both needed surgery or she would die,” he hospitals (then-Sparks Medical Center said. “They did surgery and she did and St. Edward Mercy Medical well.” The hospitalization and surgery Center) and took call at both places,” were $100. Exactly. Jon said. “I can remember nights when Jon also is involved in local missions I’d go, ‘Now, which hospital was I and said his volunteer experiences have called to?’” made him more compassionate and Jon and Denise now will try understanding. “Fort Smith has a lot of something new: retirement. different cultures and we’ve been “It’s hard because you develop such blessed to see a lot of those people,” he relationships,” Jon said. “Now, we’re said. seeing the next generation. We see the Denise retired about a year ago and children of the children that we used to has been teaching herself German and take care of.” cooking a lot. (“And I’ve been eating a lot!” Jon added.) “It’s fun. I don’t often recognize the parents, then Grandma comes in But the stories from the office continue. the room and I know who they are,” Denise laughed. “Four-year-olds have no inhibitions, they just tell it like it is,” Jon said. Mission work also has long been a part of their lives. Their interest in “One little boy was staring at my white hair. I said, ‘What’s wrong?’ He world travel began when they visited their daughter in France while she said, ‘My momma’s hair was like that but she fixed it!’” was getting her Ph.D. in French. They soon got involved in international “You want to be one of those people who remembers the good ole days medical missions through their church and have been several times to a but I remember all the days,” Jon said. “And the future is bright, too. It’s West African village, where they befriended Abdoulaye Sadio, a Christian going to be different.” pastor. “We’ve worked together for 40 years,” Denise said. “I know people say Sadio has visited the Hendricksons in Fort Smith and even said a prayer how can you do that but I don’t see how we could have done it without – in French – at their daughter’s wedding. each other.” – Donna Payne “The home village of this pastor was of Muslim faith and he was October 2020
Entertainment Fort Smith
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WHAT’S COOKING
SCARY
Quick, easy treats are
good!
CRESCENT MUMMY DOGS
Costumes, candy and crescent mummy dogs—that’s what Halloween is all about! Have your little ghouls and goblins help prep dinner by wrapping the crescent dough strips around the hot dogs to look like bandages. They’ll love seeing these simple-yet-spooky mummies bake up into cheesy, crescent-wrapped Halloween pigs in a blanket to eat before they trick-or-treat! 1 can (8 oz.) refrigerated crescent rolls 2 1/2 slices American cheese, quartered 10 hot dogs Cooking spray Mustard or ketchup, if desired Heat oven to 375 degrees. Unroll dough; separate at perforations, creating 4 rectangles. Press perforations to seal. With knife or kitchen scissors, cut each rectangle lengthwise into 10 pieces, making a total of 40 pieces of dough. Slice cheese slices into quarters (1/2 slice cheese, cut in half ). Wrap four pieces of dough around each hot dog and 1/4 slice of cheese to look like "bandages," stretching dough slightly to completely cover hot dog. About 1/2 inch from one end of each hot dog, separate "bandages" so hot dog shows through for "face." On ungreased large cookie sheet, place wrapped hot dogs (cheese side down); spray dough lightly with cooking spray. Bake 13 to 17 minutes or until dough is light golden brown and hot dogs are hot. With mustard, draw features on "face."
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Entertainment Fort Smith
October 2020
WHAT’S COOKING
HAM AND CHEESE CRESCENT MUMMY Take the spook out of deciding what’s for Halloween dinner with this simple ham and cheese crescent mummy! 1 can refrigerated crescent dinner rolls 4 slices (3 oz.) cheddar cheese 8 slices (3 oz.) cooked deli ham 1 egg 1 tablespoon water 2 medium pitted ripe olives Heat oven to 375 degrees. Spray large cookie sheet with cooking spray. Unroll can of dough. Place on cookie sheet. If using crescent rolls, firmly press perforations and seams to seal. Place cheese slices, overlapping slightly, down center of dough, leaving 1-inch border at each end. Top evenly with ham slices. With kitchen scissors or sharp knife, make cuts 1 inch apart on long sides of dough rectangle to within 1/2 inch of filling. Alternately cross strips over filling. Bring short ends over filling, and press to seal. In small bowl, beat egg and water. Brush dough with egg mixture. Top with olives for mummy eyes. Bake 20 to 25 minutes or until deep golden brown. Cut into crosswise slices. October 2020
Entertainment Fort Smith
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WHAT’S COOKING
MUMMY COOKIES 1 package refrigerated chocolate chip cookies 1 container (1 lb.) vanilla creamy ready-to-spread frosting Neon orange and green food colors Candy eyes Heat oven to 350 degrees. Bake cookies as directed on package. Cool completely. Separate frosting into 2 small bowls; add food colors to make desired neon orange and neon green colors. Spoon colored frostings into decorating bags fitted with flat basket weave tip No. 45. Squeeze bag to pipe frosting in crisscross pattern over cookies to look like mummy bandages. Attach candy eyes. Let stand until set, about 20 minutes.
MUMMY HEAD CANDY APPLES 8 small apples 8 craft sticks 21â „2 cups white candy melts or coating wafers (14 oz), chopped Black paste icing color (not food color) Wash and dry apples; remove stem and blossom ends. Insert wooden stick into stem end of each apple. In medium microwavable bowl, microwave candy melts uncovered on High 45 seconds or until melted; stir until smooth. Dip each apple in melted coating, turning and spreading to coat. Let stand on waxed paper until firm. With fork, drizzle remaining melted coating (reheat if necessary) across coated apples in zigzag fashion to look like mummies. With black paste icing, pipe eyes on each apple. Let stand until set. 20
Entertainment Fort Smith
October 2020
goodies
Buffalo plaid and sequined tabletop pumpkins available at A to Z Variety.
Ouidad climate-control, defrizzing shampoo and condition found at Vanity Calls.
BioGuard arctic blue winter kits from Luther Stem Pools & Spas.
October 2020
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goodies
Aveda be curly hair products found at Metropolis Hair Studio.
Quilted dog carrier and Aroma Paws candle and shampoo and conditioner from Doods & Dames Dog Bakery & Boutique.
Classic Oliver Peoples eyeglass frames available at Dr. Steven B. Stiles, Optometrist.
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Entertainment Fort Smith
October 2020
goodies
Benitos chips and sweet & spice corn salsa found at Paul’s Meat Market.
Bailey’s Apple Pie and Cask & Kettle ready-to-brew hot cocktails from In Good Spirits. Walker’s Razor electronic ear muffs from Center for Hearing.
October 2020
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goodies
A variety of accent cabinets in stock and available at Mike’s Furniture.
Brooks Ghost 13 women’s road running shoes available at True Grit Running Company.
Forevermark Tribute Collection stackable diamond rings in white, rose and yellow gold available at Newton's Jewelers.
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Entertainment Fort Smith
October 2020
goodies
Colorful, fall tees available at Firefly Boutique & Gifts in Van Buren.
Painted metal Halloween decor found at Neumeier Nursery & Greenhouses. October 2020
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goodies
Designer fabrics and glass mosaic and porcelain tile available at D&D Floor Covering.
Gold clutch and zippered ankle boots from Designer Again.
Kosmos Q barbecue rubs in several flavors found at Yeagers Hardware.
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Entertainment Fort Smith
October 2020
Oct. 2-30 Family & Folklore on Facebook Every culture has folk tales passed down from generation to generation. In recognition of Halloween, Mrs. Tammy will explore some of the spookier stories. Free. 2-4 p.m. Fridays. Facebook-Alma Public Library
Oct. 1-15 Lions International Peace Poster Contest Lions have provided an important reminder to the world that, through service, we can give and receive so much – joy, kindness, hope and peace. This year, young people have the opportunity to express their visions of peace through the lens of service. This year’s theme is Peace Through Service. This contest is open to students ages 11-13 in the Van Buren School District and home schools. Artwork will be accepted Oct. 1-15 and may be delivered to the Center for Art & Education, 104 North 13th Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-7767 art-ed.org
Oct. 1-29 DIY Crafts for Fall: All Ages Make a monarch butterfly, a spider hat, clothespin bats, a paper pumpkin and a spooky suncatcher. Ms. Reeca will demonstrate these fun crafts online. Call to pick up a free DIY kit. Supplies limited. Free. 4-6 p.m. Thursdays. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 Facebook-Alma Public Library
Oct. 1-29 Ms. Robin’s Favorites Help Ms. Robin open up the Library Surprise Bag to see Fred and which favorite story you'll get to hear. If you've got a favorite story, be sure to let Ms. Robin know. Watch live or any time online. Free. 10-10:15 a.m. Thursdays. Facebook-Fort Smith Public Library YouTube-Fort Smith Public Library
Oct. 2-30 Weekly Kraftivity with Miss Kara Miss Kara will make a craft or have an activity for viewers to do along with her. Oct. 2, she will talk about moon phases and make paper plate art that shows all of the phases of the moon. Supplies this week are blank paper plates, brads and black and yellow construction paper. Oct. 9, make spooky solo-cup lanterns while Miss Kara talks about friction and how the lanterns make sounds. For this craft, gather a piece of string, a Solo plastic cup, construction paper and scissors. Oct. 16, make rubbings of fall leaves with crayons. Miss Kara also will talk about fall leaves common in our area and how to identify what tree they came from. Have ready paper, crayons and some fall leaves. Oct. 23, she will demonstrate the parts of a pumpkin/gourd and teach kids how to draw the pumpkin from the inside out. Supplies needed are paper and something to draw with. Oct. 30, you will make homely sock creatures. Find an old sock and contact the library if you need a yarn needle, yarn, googly eyes and filler. Miss Kara will demonstrate an easy sock creature for the littles and a more challenging one for the craft-minded. Free kits can be picked up each week at the library. Call to arrange. Free. 2:30 p.m. Fridays. Facebook-Mountainburg Public Library
Oct. 3-31 Dreamers and Readers Story Hour Join Tammy Coombes and Veronica Robins for story time and free refreshments. 10 a.m. Saturdays. Dyer Community Building, Dyer, Ark.
Oct. 1-29 Story Time on Facebook Live Join the Ralph D. Graf Library of Mulberry on Facebook Live for a traditional story time with a craft demonstration. Free. 10 a.m.-noon. Thursdays. Facebook-Mulberry Public Library
Oct. 1-29 Virtual Story Times Miss Allison will read a super fun book. After story time, she’ll show you how to make a craft. Call to pick up a free craft kit. Supplies limited. Free. 10:30 a.m.12:30 p.m. Thursdays. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 Facebook-Alma Public Library
Oct. 1-29 Tween Thursdays Ms. Lara will cover lots of topics and activities such as S.T.E.A.M., coding or just something informative and silly you can easily do at home. Free. 3:45-5:45 p.m. Facebook-Cedarville Public Library
Oct. 1-29 Virtual Tween and Teen Time Find these programs on the VBPL Teenspace Facebook page. Free. 4-6 p.m. Thursdays. Van Buren Public Library, 111 North 12th Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 Facebook-VBPLTeenspace
KIDS CALENDAR
Oct. 5-Nov. 9 K-12 Art Classes Students have an opportunity to discover hidden talents and allow their creativity to shine. Each class focuses on a new project that incorporates state standard art practices and art history. Students in kindergarten through high school can learn techniques, meet artists throughout history and from around the world and experiment with a variety of mediums such as sculpture, painting, watercolor, colored pencil and more. Class meets on-site each Monday. Each student receives their own art tool kit to complete their projects. Wear a mask. Call to register. $8 per class. 1-3:30 p.m. for home-schoolers and 4:5:30 p.m. for after-school students. Center for Art and Education, 104 North 13th Street, Van Buren 479-474-7767 art-ed.org
Oct. 6-27 DIY Crafts on Facebook: Ages 10 and Older Ms. Reeca will show you how to make spider pompoms, quilled bats, a pumpkin magnet and Halloween string art. Call to pick up a free DIY kit. For ages 10 and older. Supplies limited. Free. 4-6 p.m.Tuesdays. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 Facebook-Alma Public Library
Oct. 6-27 Virtual Baby and Me Story Time Baby & Me story times continue virtually. This is a time for children ages birth to 3 years and caregivers to hear age-appropriate stories and sing a song or two. Free. 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Tuesdays. Facebook-vbplchildrenslibrary
Oct. 6-27 Weekly Virtual Story Time Hear stories about leaves, pumpkins, sounds and Halloween. The story time is designed to be fun while building literacy skills, basic knowledge and confidence. Free. 2:30-4:30 p.m. Tuesdays. Facebook-Mountainburg Public Library
Oct. 6-27 Tuesday Surprise on Facebook Live Sometimes S.T.E.M., sometimes a craft, sometimes a story – it’s a surprise. Free. 4-6 p.m. Facebook-Mountainburg Public Library
Oct. 3-31 RAM DIY Saturdays Each month, RAM will provide 50 art bags to the community that will have supplies to do weekly DIY RAM Saturday projects. Supplies and projects will be listed monthly on their website. Please register to help with craft bag count. Subscribe to fsramREVAMP on YouTube. Free. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Fort Smith Regional Art Museum, 1601 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-784-2787 ram.org
Oct. 5-26 DIY Crafts with Miss Allison October is a month of spooky crafts: glue and salt sider; yarn-wrapped mummy; paper pumpkins and pompom ghost painting. For ages up to 10 years. Craft kits are available while supplies last by calling 479-632-4140. Free. 4 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 Facebook-Alma Public Library
Oct. 7, 12 Home-School Studio Art: Ages 12-18 This hands-on, home-school class will focus on teaching students how to see and analyze as an artist and use those skills to execute detail-oriented assignments. The elements and principles of design will be emphasized, and students will use them in explaining their work and processes. Rather than making “art,” the class will focus on grasping artistic perception and execution. Classes will take place on Zoom. Register online. 10 a.m. every other Wednesday. Fort Smith Regional Art Museum, 479-784-2787 fsram.org
Oct. 7, 21 Music as an Art Prompt: Ages 6-11 This exciting home-school class will focus on teaching students about the art-music movements through the years. They will listen to the period music and create art with movement in mind. The students will gain knowledge of music and art by doing so through art prompts. Classes will take place on Zoom. Register online. 11 a.m. every other Wednesday. Fort Smith Regional Art Museum, 479-784-2787 fsram.org October 2020 Entertainment Fort Smith 27
KIDS CALENDAR
Oct. 7-28 Virtual Story Time Free craft kits can be picked up in advance to be used during virtual story times for children. Phone to reserve limited supplies. Free. 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Wednesdays. Facebook-VBPL Children's Library
Oct. 7-28 Facebook Live Story Time Ms. Lara will read a story and show you how to do a fun craft – live! Themes will be leaves, firetrucks, dinosaurs and Halloween. Free. 10 a.m.-noon. Wednesdays. Facebook-Cedarville Public Library
Oct. 8 Biography Break with Ms. Robin: Arkansas Diamond Style Join Ms. Robin online for this Arkansas Diamond Style biography break. The Arkansas Diamond Primary Book Award is designed to encourage reading for students in grades K-3. Students read and/or listen to at least three titles from the nominated books and vote for their favorite. Voting has been delayed until May. The award is coordinated by the Arkansas State Library. Free. 10-10:15 a.m. Facebook and YouTube-Fort Smith Public Library
Oct. 9 Story Break with Mrs. Tiffany Stop! It's time for a story break! Mrs. Tiffany will be sharing a story with a special animal or visiting an in-
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teresting location in our area. You can watch Story Break with Mrs. Tiffany live or later, online. Free. 1010:15 a.m. Facebook and YouTube Fort Smith Public Library
Oct. 14, 30 Story Safari: Dinosaur vs. Shark Join zany librarians Mrs. Rachel and Mrs. Tiffany on the hunt for a great book. Free. 10 a.m.-noon. Facebook and YouTube – Fort Smith Public Library
Oct. 15 Story Time with Matia!: Brown Sugar Babe Join Youth Services staff member Matia Stewart as she reads “Brown Sugar Babe” by Charlotte Watson Sherman. When a little girl has doubts about the color of her skin, her mother shows her all the wonderful, beautiful things brown can be! This message of selflove and acceptance uses rich, dreamy illustrations to celebrate the color using all the senses. Free. 10-10:15 a.m. Facebook or YouTube-Fort Smith Public Library
Oct. 19 Laptime Story Time with Mrs. Tiffany Babies birth to 24 months can join Mrs. Tiffany for a virtual laptime story time. Stay tuned until the end when, after she reads and acts silly, she'll share a simple craft that toddlers can create. Free. 10:30-10:15 a.m. Facebook or YouTube - Fort Smith Public Library
Oct. 22 Teen Time Join the Cedarville Library once a month for an awesome program for ages 13-18. Ms. Lara will post a video on Facebook just for the teens. Lots of topics and activities will be covered such as S.T.E.A.M. projects, coding or maybe something a little crazy! October’s activity is a coding project teens can easily do at home. Free. 3:45-5:45 p.m. Facebook-Cedarville Public Library
Oct. 26 How to Make Spooky Slime Get ready for Halloween by learning how to make some homemade spooky slime! Watch Mark's video for a supplies list and instructions about how to complete the activity. You can watch "How to Make Spooky Slime!" anytime on Facebook or Youtube. Free. 1010:15 a.m. Facebook, YouTube-Fort Smith Public Library
Oct. 28 Virtual Story Time Craft kits are available, while supplies last, each week in advance of the story time. Call the library to pick up. Free. 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Facebook-vbplchildrenslibrary
CALENDAR of events
Un-Masked: You’re Un-Invited to a Museum of History Fundraiser OCT
The Fort Smith Museum of History has created “Un-Masked” as a fundraiser to playfully “un-invite” supports to not join them in person. Guests are invited, instead, to aid this city’s unique museum in these times of financial need from the comfort and security of their own homes.
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Its goal is to raise $100,000 to ensure the museum’s recovery from COVID-19 closure and to offer a solid foundation as it enters 2021 with eyes to the future of the history the museum hopes to share with the public. Early donations account for about $30,000 in pledged or donated monies – a great start to this campaign. The Fort Smith Museum of History was founded in 1910 as a private, non-profit, 501(c)3 organization. The museum, 110 years later, is the oldest functioning museum in the state, located right here in Fort Smith, with a mission of collecting, sharing and preserving the history of Fort Smith and the region. Through education, exhibitions, programs and outreach, the museum educates the region on the history of the area and serves five counties, Sebastian, Crawford, and Franklin counties in Arkansas, and Sequoyah and LeFlore counties in Oklahoma. The financial impact of COVID-19 has been devastating to the Fort Smith Museum of History. During these times of COVID-19 closures and social distancing, the museum has not been able to host visitors who seek to learn about the history of our great city and the region, collect artifacts, enjoy its soda fountain or participate in events. Help ensure the future of our history for another 110 years and counting by making a taxdeductible donation online at fortsmithmuseum.org, by phone at 479-783-7841, by email at info@fortsmithmuseum.com, or by dropping by the museum at 320 Rogers Avenue.
Oct. 1 "The Best Pecans at a Fair Price" This annual fundraiser of the Crawford County Conservation District provides education scholarships, conservation workshops and programs. Pre-orders taken through Oct. 29 for a new crop of fresh shelled, ready-to-eat pecans and other specialty nuts. Orders can be picked up the week before Thanksgiving. A price sheet and order form are available on the CCCD website, Facebook-ArkansasCCCD or by calling the district office. 479-474-2281 arkansasCCCD.com
Oct. 1-5 Call for Artists – Mural Proposal Content Regional artists are invited to submit concepts and proposals for a new piece of public art to be installed in downtown Fort Smith at the Fort Smith Regional Art Museum. The theme is “Where the spirit of art unites us” and “1948.” The space is front and side measuring 269 x 82 inches (front) and 89 x 82 inches (side). Artists must submit contact information, a rendering of the proposed artwork and resume, including prior experience with public mural painting and references. Any artist with experience may enter, regardless of where they live. Send to: education@fsram.org; subject line: Fort Smith Regional Art Museum Mural Proposal – your name. Winner will be announced Oct. 15. Free. Fort Smith Regional Art Museum, 1601 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-784-2787 fsram.org Oct. 1-31 Clay 'n' Magic Learn basic throwing clay on the wheel. Sessions are six weeks and the fee includes aprons, clay, firing, glazing, tools and towels. Open to ages 8 and up. Start anytime. Classes are ongoing and semi-private. Discounts for children, elderly, veterans, military, nurses, police and families. $130. 4-6 p.m. Cre8tive Arts Network, 7408 Buckhorn Street, Fort Smith. 479-357-9079 cre8beartsy.com Oct. 1-30 Fort Smith Trolley Museum Recruiting Volunteers Adults can be trained to become an electric streetcar operator on this historic downtown line. Volunteers are also welcomed for the operation of the trolley museum’s indoor displays, gift shop and research library. Join dedicated volunteers to support this unique museum. Fort Smith Trolley Museum, 100 South 4th Street, Fort Smith. 479-783-0205 fstm.org Oct. 2 Community Yoga Yogaterrium offers a donation-based community yoga class every Friday. A rotation of yoga teachers offers a class that is accessible to all levels. All donations collected will support the studio's monthly charity. Students provide their own mats. Free. 6-7 p.m. Yogaterrium, 2712 Grand Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-459-2187 yogaterrium.com October 2020 Entertainment Fort Smith 29
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Oct. 1-Dec 27 Billie Holiday at Sugar Hill Enter the public and private worlds of Billie Holiday through poignant, beautiful photographs by Jerry Dantzic. Enjoy a seldom-seen video of Holiday performing at Sugar Hill, Newark, N.J., in 1957. From the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service in collaboration with the Jerry Dantzic Archives. Free. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Fort Smith Regional Art Museum, 1601 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-784-2787 fsram.org Oct. 3 Civil War Union Artillery at Fort Smith Boom! Not much compares to the sound of a cannon firing. Volunteers demonstrate an artillery firing on the parade ground. Fort Smith was held by Union forces from 1863 to 1865. Watch a cannon demonstration followed by a discussion to learn more. Social distancing barriers and safety practices will be applied for the staff, volunteers and visitors. Free. 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Fort Smith National Historic Site, 301 Parker Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. nps.gov/fosm Oct. 3 7th Annual Great Futures Gala This national award-winning event has become one of the area’s premier fundraisers, raising tens of thousands of dollars for the Boys & Girls Club of Van Buren. The club’s membership base continues to grow each year, making fundraisers such as this one even more critical to overall operations. Four levels of sponsorship available include a minimum of eight gala tickets, the equivalent of one reserved table, for eight guests. $100 individual tickets. 6-9 p.m. Adonai Tsuri Event Venue, 4500 Old Uniontown Road, Van Buren, Ark. vbclub.org Oct. 3 More Than Pink Walk This year, the 2020 River Valley More Than Pink Walk is virtual. Every participant and their team can walk when and where they choose. Meet on Oct. 3 to celebrate virtually. Register through the website or Facebook group will help you register. Registration is free, but participants are encouraged to raise funds. Free. 10 a.m.-noon. 479-414-6579 Komenozark.org. Oct. 3-Dec. 1 Clay Gifts at Cre8tive Be Artsy Studio Gift-giving season is just around the corner. Shop for handmade clay gift such as woven bread baskets, spoon rests, soap dishes, ring holders, mugs, tree ornament or more. Groups up to eight may attend together. Visitors must wear masks and observe COVID-19 precautions inside the studio. Free. By appointment. Cre8tive Be Artsy 7408 Buckhorn, Fort Smith 479-357-9079 30
Entertainment Fort Smith
October 2020
CALENDAR OF EVENTS Oct. 5 Dharma Recovery Meditation A peer-led movement using Buddhist practices and principles to overcome addiction through meditation, investigation and community. Class meets weekly and is court approved, similar to AA or NA, to help you find the power to overcome your addictions to selfharming habits and behaviors. Donations welcome. 8 p.m. Yogaterrium at Chaffee Crossing, 7424 Ellis Street, Fort Smith. 479-459-2187 yogaterrium.com Colin McClain, screenprint, 2016 Oct. 4 Arkansas Society of Printmakers Opening The Center For Art & Education is pleased to present the artwork of the Arkansas Society of Printmakers. See the printmakers’ use of different surface textures, color effects and forms, producing unique works of art, defining each artist's style and personality. Participating artists are Daniel Adams, Ernest Cialone, Kristen DeGeorge, Addison Graham, Katie Harper, Neal Harrington, Tammy Harrington and Colin McLain. Several exhibiting artists are on the fine arts staff of the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith. Printmaking is a process based on the principle of transferring images from a matrix onto another surface, most often paper or fabric. Traditional printmaking techniques include woodcut, etching, engraving, and lithography, while modern artists include screenprinting. The results of these processes are endlessly variable. Meet the artists. Music will be performed by MozArt Studios. Free. 1-4 p.m. Center for Art and Education, 104 North 13th Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-7767 art-ed.org
Oct. 6 Paycheck Protection Program Update: What's Next for Business Owners? The Van Buren Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Alma Area Chamber of Commerce, hosts a Virtual Business Forum to help businesses navigate all aspects of the Paycheck Protection Program. Join as Landmark CPA member Katie Lejong discusses the latest updates on the PPP program, the forgiveness application process and additional measures being considered by Congress. Free, registration is required. 10-11 a.m. Van Buren Chamber, 510 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-2761 vanburenchamber.org Oct. 7, 14, 21, 28 What's Up with B? A new virtual program is a weekly presentation and may contain a variety of projects, guests, tips, cooking and library news. The library misses hosting their patrons in real classes, and this program will allow the community to see and virtually visit in a fun and entertaining way as everyone finds out what’s up with B. Adults/seniors. Free. 1:30-3:30 p.m. Facebook-Van Buren Public Library
Oct. 7 RAM Curator’s Corner: Back to the Fort Every other week, RAM assistant curator Samantha Rhodes will discuss a piece from the RAM Permanent Collection. One of four paintings in John Bell’s “Marshal” series, Back to the Fort features a glimpse of the Old Fort across the river from the Oklahoma border. The central figure on horseback is U.S. Marshal Bass Reeves, the first black deputy west of the Mississippi River. Free. Fort Smith Regional Art Museum, 479-784-2787 YouTube - Fort Smith Regional Art Museum channel Oct. 7 Bingo for Books on Facebook Play on Alma Public Library Facebook page with Mrs. Tammy. Print a bingo card from the link on the library’s Facebook page or use a provided virtual card. Prizes will be books in the genre of your choice. Free. 2-4 p.m. Facebook-Alma Public Library Oct. 9 Her Voice: Gallery Opening Reception “Her Voice” is an exposition of women artists in our area, including Kiaya Luper, Casi Caton, Daleana Vaughan, Lious Novicki, Hannah Jeremiah, Maggie Malloy, J.L. Medieros, Katelyn Smith and Sharuq Yasin. Selected Abstractions from the Bakery Collection also will be on display, including some works by UAFS emeritus professor Don Lee. In-person limit of 100 attendees at a time. Guests are encouraged to attend in one-hour spans. Light refreshments will be provided. Hosted by The Bakery District and The District Galleries. Cash bar. Free. 5-9 p.m. The District Galleries, 70 South 7th Street, Fort Smith, Ark.
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October 2020
Entertainment Fort Smith
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Oct. 10 Marla Cantrell Book Signing Author Marla Cantrell will sell and sign copies of her debut collection of short stories, “Early Morning in the Land of Dreams.� Set in Arkansas, her characters are salt-of-the-earth people tied to the land they love, the traditions they honor and the partners they’re attached to, for better or worse. Cantrell has had more than 100 short stories published. She is an Arkansas Arts Council Fellowship Award winner, a writing teacher, editor and the owner of Telephee Press. Cantrell’s book is also available at amazon.com. Free. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Chapters on Main, 816 Main Street, Van Buren. Oct. 10 Kidney for Archer Virtual 5K Run/Walk Run/walk a 5K in your neighborhood for a good cause. Register to support Children's Organ Transplant Association in honor of a Archer Whetstone, a local 1-year-old boy in need of a kidney transplant. Funds raised will assist with a lifetime of transplantrelated expenses. Turn in your race time to lydia.whetstone@gmail.com to receive a race medal. $30. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. 501-960-2164 www.COTAforArcher.com
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Oct. 12 3D Pumpkin Patch Craft Get into the fall spirit and use your artistic talents to make a fun 3D Pumpkin Patch Craft! Starting Oct. 12, craft kits will be available for pickup in the rotunda of the Main Library, while supplies last. It is not necessary to schedule an appointment to pick up a craft bag. A great craft for teens and adults. Free. 9 a.m.5:30 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org Oct. 12 Championship Fore Charities Annual golf tournament fundraiser benefits Girls Inc. of Fort Smith, Young Life of Fort Smith and the Fort Smith Optimist Club. Sodie's will quench your thirst at the halfway house during the tournament, as well as from beverage carts. Prizes for top three teams and closest to the pin/longest drive. Harry Robinson Buick GMC is the exclusive hole sponsor. Sponsorships are available. Team entry: $1,000; Hole sponsorships: $100. 11 a.m. registration and lunch, 1 p.m tee time; 5:30 p.m. flight awards. Hardscrabble County Club, 5211 South Cliff Drive, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-926-4404 Oct. 13 Virtual Scrapbooking Scrapbooking kits for a virtual class on the Van Buren Public Library’s Facebook page are available by calling the library. Most projects will require you to have your own adhesive, paper cutter or scissors. This month’s theme is Halloween. Free. 1:30 PM-3:30 p.m. Facebook – Van Buren Public Library
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Oct. 13 Book Talk on Zoom The Alma Public Library invites new members to a book club, held virtually on Zoom. October’s book is “Reading with Patrick: A Teacher, a Student, and a Life-Changing Friendship� by Michelle Kuo, a memoir of a Teach for America volunteer who arrives in Helena, Ark., soon after graduating from Harvard. Helena
CALENDAR OF EVENTS is in one of the poorest counties in America, with a legacy of slavery and Jim Crow. While mentoring Patrick Browning, Kuo discovers much about herself and her exceptional student. Free. 6-8 p.m. FacebookAlma Public Library Oct 13-Oct 13 Virtual Classic Horror Trivia with Ronny Test your knowledge on classic horror trivia. Free. 6:30 p.m. Facebook-Fort Smith Public Library Oct 14 Virtual Cookbook Club - Apple Recipes What’s your favorite way to cook apples? In a pie, in a cake, spiced apples, apple butter? Alma Library staff will share their recipes and ask for yours on their Facebook page. Bonus points for photos! Adults. Free. 24 p.m. Facebook-Alma Public Library Oct. 15 Virtual Thanksgiving Card-Making Class Free, limited material kits are available to be picked up at the library. Provide your own adhesive and either a paper cutter or ruler and scissors. Follow Bridgette step by step in making a Thanksgiving card. Free. 1:30-3:30 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 Facebook-Van Buren Public Library Oct. 15 Make It in a Minute – Sunflower Wreath Are you feeling crafty? Rachel and Tiffany are demonstrating fun and unique crafts – all jam packed into a 1-minute video! Watch for more DIY projects and recipes in under 60 seconds from the library. Free. 24 p.m. 479-783-0229 Facebook and YouTube - Fort Smith Public Library Oct. 16-Jan. 31 Suzannah Schreckhise: Attention to Tension Suzannah Schreckhise is a multidisciplinary visual artist living in Fayetteville. She earned her Bachelor of Art at the University of the Ozarks in Clarksville. She has participated in numerous state and national exhibitions and her work has been featured in several publications. She has received awards and honors, including a fellowship from Artist INC; first place at the 2019 RAM Invitational and at the NEA Big Read Recycled Art Exhibition at the Windgate Gallery at the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith and acceptance onto the artist registry for the Arkansas National Committee of the National Museum of Women in the Arts. Her work will tour the state as part of that committee’s Women to Watch exhibition, Paper Routes, in 2021. Free. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday, 1-5 p.m. Sunday. Fort Smith Regional Art Museum, Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-784-2787 fsram.org Oct. 17 Survivors' Challenge 10K, 5K Run/Walk and 3rd Annual Over the Edge Proceeds support programs and services offered by the Donald W. Reynolds Cancer Support House. Thousands will lace up their sneakers to walk or run or strap on rappelling gear to raise money for cancer fighters and survivors. Packet pick-up schedule at the support house is 9 a.m.-6 p.m Oct. 15 and 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Oct. 16 and 6:45-7:50 a.m. race day at Arvest Tower, 5000 Rogers Avenue. It is recommended participants be at the event site no later than 7:30 a.m. 8 a.m. Arvest Bank Tower, 5000 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-424-1812
HEAR, HERE. KUAF October 2020
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Oct. 17 UAFS Lions Virtual 5K Hosted by the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith Alumni and the UAFS Student Activities Office, this event supports the UAFS Alumni Legacy Scholarship. Each participant will receive a T-shirt, which can be picked up curbside at the Alumni Center at the intersection of Grand and Waldron avenues. If you do not live in this area, contact alumni@uafs.edu after you register and a T-shirt will be mailed. Walk, run, hop, cycle or skip your 5K from Oct. 17-31, a little each day or all at once. Take a picture of yourself in your 5K Tshirt and post on social media tagging @uafsalumni and #Lions5K. $25 registration. University of Arkansas-Fort Smith, 5210 Grand Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-788-7000 uafs.edu Oct 19 Virtual Book Club The book club will meet via ZOOM. Contact the library for log-in. This month, discuss "The Sweetest Hallelujah" by Elaine Hussey, a story of two courageous women and the little girl that binds them. Free. 7-9 p.m. 479-474-6045 Facebook -Van Buren Public Library Oct 20 Book Review on Facebook Alma Public Library Book Club director, Tammy Watts, will review “The Stalking” by Heather Graham. The novel follows the search for a missing woman and the detectives trying to bring her home. When Cheyenne and Andre discover the kidnapper is now hunting them, everything changes. book. Free. 2-4 p.m. Facebook-Alma Public Library
Oct. 21 Off the Cuff Cooking with Rachel and Jodie: So Yummy It’s Scary! Watch these two library chefs, Rachel and Jodie try to follow recipes from cookbooks you can check out from your library. The hosts are cooking up some spooky treats for Halloween! Free. 10-10:15 a.m. Facebook and YouTube - Fort Smith Public Library Oct. 21 RAM Curator’s Corner: The Hills Are Alive Every other week, RAM assistant curator Samantha Rhodes will discuss a piece from the RAM Permanent Collection. David Kessler, a conceptual artist, emphasizes the elements of color and free form. His work often features loose brush strokes, bold colors and lively texture. Kessler rejects the notion of categorical thought and allows the spontaneous celebration of color encouraging his many students to do the same. “The Hills are Alive” features his characteristic saturated hues displaying a harmonious landscape. As with much abstract art, the interpretations are endless, which is a foundational joy for David Kessler. Available on the RAM YouTube channel. Free. Fort Smith Regional Art Museum, 479-784-2787 fsram.org/education Oct. 23 Movie for a Mission Drive up and join The CALL in Crawford and Sebastian Counties for a movie and barbecue and supporting a great cause! They are hosting a physically distanced fundraiser in lieu of an annual banquet. Funds raised will be used to recruit, train and support foster and adoptive parents. The movie is free. A dinner from
Art’s BBQ will be available for purchase. Meals include a barbecue chicken or pork sandwich, two sides and a drink. $30 for adults; $20 for children. 6-9 p.m. Grace Community Church, 4001 Brooken Hill Drive, Fort Smith. 479-353-0767 thecallinarkansas.org/crawford-sebastian/ Oct. 24 Coughran Hot Rod Auto Show Main Street hosts motor mania in this car show with cash prizes, a Halloween costume contest, pickle juice chug contest and cruise night. Register vehicles and motorcycles from 8-11:15 a.m. Car show through trophy time at 3:30 p.m. Cruise from 5-9 p.m. Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. Oct. 24 10th Annual Red Shoe Shindig The10th annual event will be held virtually with a broadcast from SOL Studios, to fund the Ronald McDonald Family Room inside Mercy Fort Smith, as well as the in-progress Ronald McDonald House just a short walk away. The 11-bedroom home will offer a place of respite to families of critically ill children, just as its existing Family Room has done for the past nine years. Ticket includes a five-course meal prepared by chef Steven Brooks, a party box containing all the essentials to have a great time at home and a floral arrangement. Call or email hello@rmhcofarkoma.org. 479-7565600 rmhcofarkoma.org
Vote YES for UAFS on Nov 3! Vote YES to renew the 0.25% countywide sales tax supporting The University of Arkansas - Fort Smith. UAFS offers a rich, vibrant learning environment for nearly 7,000 students each semester. • Renewal of existing sales tax in place since 2002. • Helps UAFS with maintenance, operation and capital improvements to support four-year degree programs. • UAFS represents one of the best values in four-year education in the region. • UAFS is an economic engine for Sebastian County!
For more information, visit
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Entertainment Fort Smith
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Murder & Mayhem Progressive Dinner supports three historic landmarks
OCT
The Fort Smith Museum of History, Bonneville House and Clayton House are teaming up again to present to a oneof-kind night of entertainment. A tour and progressive dinner at these three location also features haunted and gruesome tales from the past. The stories begin at the Fort Smith Museum of History with drinks, appetizers, ghost stories and a peek at haunted areas of the museum.
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The group then progresses to the Belle Grove Historic District for an elegant dinner at the Bonneville House and then just a few steps away to a delicious dessert at The Clayton House. Guests will hear gruesome historic facts and eerie local legends along the way. Reputedly haunted houses are pointed out and their dark secrets revealed. To comply with COVID-19 restrictions, diners will enjoy their meal Al fresco. The group will stroll through Fort Smith’s Belle Grove Historic District. Guests should take along a flashlight. Guests must be 21 to attend. Tickets are $125 and include drinks, a three-course dinner and custom mask, available by phone from the Fort Smith Museum of History. Tour begins at 5 p.m. each day. Fort Smith Museum of History, 320 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-7841
1601 ROGERS AVENUE FORT SMITH, AR 72901 479.784.2787 • FSRAM.ORG October 2020
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Oct. 27 Virtual Stephen King Trivia with Ronny Stephen King is one of the library’s favorite authors, how about you? Test your knowledge on all things Stephen King on Facebook Live! Free. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Facebook-Fort Smith Public Library Oct. 28 Virtual Cookbook Club - Pumpkin Recipes Let’s get ready for Thanksgiving! Share your favorite pumpkin recipe with the staff of the Alma Public Library, who will share their recipes on their Facebook page. You can participate by sharing yours. Bonus points if you have photos. Free. 2-4 p.m. Facebook-Alma Public Library Oct. 29 Virtual Book Club Join a virtual discussion about their book of the month, via Google Meet. Access the link to the meeting on the Cedarville Public Library Book Club Facebook Page or you can phone to give your email address. Discuss “Killing England: The Brutal Struggle for American Independence” by Bill O'Reilly. Free. 13 p.m. 479-410-1853 Facebook-Cedarville Public Library Book Club Oct. 29 Make It in a Minute – Pumpkin Drilling Are you feeling crafty? Rachel and Tiffany are demonstrating some fun and unique crafts – all jam packed into a one-minute video! Watch for more DIY projects and recipes in under 60 seconds from the library. Free. 2-2:05 p.m. Facebook and YouTube-Fort Smith Public Library Oct. 29 Virtual Crafterworks Pull up the Van Buren Public Library’s Facebook page and follow along as Bridgette teaches step by step how to complete a home décor Thanksgiving project. The virtual class is free, but you will have to gather your own supplies. Supply list provided online. Free. 6-8 p.m. Facebook-Van Buren Public Library Oct. 31 Flute & Drum Circle A drum and flute circle meets the last Saturday of each month to play the Native American Flute and have a session of group drumming. You do not have to be a trained flute player or drummer to participate. Plan to take your outdoor seating. Donations welcome. 2-3 p.m. Yogaterrium, 7424 Ellis Street, Fort Smith. 479459-2187 yogaterrium.com
CALL FOR HOLIDAY EVENTS Please report November and December community events online at efortsmith.com. The next magazine we’ll put on stands is a November and December Winter Holiday Issue, including events all the way through the New Year. Be sure to include your celebration, fund-raiser, parade, exhibit or performance for November and December by the deadline of Oct. 15. Submit events at efortsmith.com under the link “Add Event.” Refer to efortsmith.com for the latest updates. 36
Entertainment Fort Smith
October 2020
Nov. 7-8 Arkansas River Holiday Market Holiday Market is a shopping event with more than 100 booths of arts and crafts, florals, woodworking, jewelry, food items, boutique goods and more. Santa will be there also to take pictures with the kids. $5 admission. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Kay Rodgers Park, 4400 Midland Boulevard, Fort Smith. 479-719-0736 arholidaymarket.com Visit efortsmith.com for updates or cancellations from this Calendar of Events. Because of potential public health circumstances, these published events are subject to change, postponement or cancellation. Event holders, please report status changes, in writing, to the editor by email at lynnwasson@efortsmith.com.
“Moonrise Over the Arkansas River� by J.P. Bell
In remembrance of our beloved friend, who died Sept. 4, 2020. Words fail; his talent is eternal.
G N I R I H E WE AR N
OPENINGS ARE AVAILABLE FOR:
Bus Drivers Substitute Teachers
E AN BUR M V E H T A JOIN RICT TE T S I D L SCHOO
These opportunities are ideal for individuals seeking part-time work who want to make a positive impact in the lives of students. Bus drivers are eligible for insurance and retirement bene ts. Substitutes are coordinated through Kelly Educational Sta ng for VBSD.
APPLY TODAY AT WWW.VBSD.US!
For more information about driver openings, call the District Administration o ce at 479.474.7942. To inquire about substitute teaching, contact Kelly Educational Sta ng at 479.262.6833.
October 2020
Entertainment Fort Smith
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IN MEMORIAM:
Earl Douglas
GREGMAGNESSFORJUDGE.COM
A force for philanthropy and friend of the magazine We were awaiting our next orders from our commanding, creative friend Earl Douglas when a previously undetected cancer caused his swift decline and death Sept. 15. We are bereaved and helpless without his instruction. “Mr. Earl,” as we pet-nicknamed him, partnered with this magazine many times to promote his charitable April Designer Show Houses and was in the middle of producing a major event, his friend Bob Miller’s 90th Birthday Celebration, to benefit the Community Rescue Mission. With sparkling, witty charm masking an iron determination, Mr. Earl was actually not so much a “partner” as a disarmingly pleasant field general. We learned years ago to be soldiers in his regiment and to follow his “orders.” It happens that it was secretly a joy to be under his command. He leaves a high standard of achievement in the field of producing charitable events. But even more so, his friends and those who joined his efforts will miss his remarkable creativity, his entertaining personality and genuine kindness. Earl had a way of encouraging everyone he met. Our condolences go to his loved ones and also to his dear “family” of friends. We must pledge to meet together, in healthier times, and toast this unforgettable, positive force who graced Fort Smith for a time. He will be remembered.
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Entertainment Fort Smith
October 2020