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EDITOR’S NOTES
Editorial Staff LYNN WASSON Editor & Publisher lynnwasson@efortsmith.com DONNA PAYNE Senior Editor donnapayne@efortsmith.com
Contributing Writers KRISTEN RIGGS BOB ROBINSON JOE WASSON Contributing Photographers MCFARLAND PHOTOGRAPHY KRISTEN RIGGS KATIE SHIELDS TRAILBLAZERS HIKING CLUB
Advertising Sales LINDA GILHAM Account Executive lgilham@efortsmith.com 479-629-0235 Advertising Coordinator KARRIE STEWART karrie@efortsmith.com CHARLES G. HUBBARD Corporate Sales charleshubbard@efortsmith.com 479-831-3995 Bookkeeping JULIE BERCH HAMILTON accounts@efortsmith.com 479-494-1888 © 2019 eFortSmith.com Media, Inc. efortsmith.com
In Memoriam LINDA SEUBOLD Founding Editor in Chief
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Entertainment Fort Smith
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People make a city, past and future Three new figures will now stand forever at the spearhead of Rogers and Garrison Avenues downtown. As statuary, they will become a familiar landmark. But I am married to someone who considers them his personal friends. In deciding upon three important citizens to meaningfully represent Fort Smith, the group 64.6 Downtown chose an entrepreneur, a nun and the city’s famous judge. Joe Wasson, my husband, was asked to do historical research to give them fuller biographies. His favorite is John Carnall, recognized as father of public education in Fort Smith. Carnall started his career as a teacher in 1840s Fort Smith, a time when few towns west of the Mississippi offered any education besides what parents could teach their own children. For lack of sustainable funding even for private schools, Carnall was soon out of a job. Although he turned to business and newspaper publishing, Carnall persisted for decades to find a lasting, publicly funded way to establish public schools. He succeeded with an ingenious plan. Joe likes Carnall because, as an editor of several newspapers, his words and thoughts survive, on microfilm in library archives. Carnall’s vivid editorials bring him to life. He was relentless in talking up his chosen town or in
denouncing anything he perceived to harm it. Carnall put his money where his mouth was, investing personally in civic efforts. He was just a good guy, Joe thinks. On inscribed bricks and stones recognizing donors to the park are the names of today’s progressive citizens. More names are on other statues and at public amenities all over town that were underwritten by citizens who cared to build up their town, as well as their own fortunes. In this magazine, though less permanent than bronze statues, you’ll find such people every month and read about the positive, communityserving things they do. On the cover is a bright circle of women who are members of a club with a noble project. Another person written about here is Rebecca Faldon, who saw a need and filled it with an inclusive, encouraging hiking club. For any event in our calendar, there are giving volunteers behind the scenes making them possible. From 1817 to now, we’re lucky that way, as a city. We hope readers use this publication monthly to find their own way to “fortify” this city with culture, art, education, justice, public service and business. We also hope you use just to have fun. – Lynn Wasson
CIRCULATION
SUBSCRIPTION
Entertainment Fort Smith is a monthly city/regional magazine published by eFortSmith.com Media, Inc.
Entertainment Fort Smith can be mailed to you, or as a gift, for $30 per publication year (11 issues).
Complimentary issues are distributed in Fort Smith, Van Buren, Alma, Greenwood and Barling, Ark., and in Roland, Muldrow, Spiro, Pocola and Sallisaw, Okla., in retail and grocery stores, corporate offices, restaurants, medical offices, public libraries, visitor centers and tourist destinations. Complimentary issues are also provided in guest rooms of area hotels.
To order by credit card, call 479-494-1888. Mail check or money order to: Subscribe P.O. Box 1341 Fort Smith AR 72902
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CONTENTS
NOVEMBER 2019
features
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13 Citizens in bronze
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Stitching respect and comfort into beautiful quilts The River Valley Starts quilters make quilts for veterans in a program called Quilts of Valor. Recently, they awarded a quilt to Paul Lux, World War II vet.
This club invites everybody to take a hike The TrailBlazers Hiking Club was created to bring individual hikers together for safety and enjoyment in outdoor adventure. By Bob Robinson
The Three Citizens of Gateway Park 64.6 Downtown has conveyed a new statuary park to the City of Fort Smith. Learn why three people were chosen to become bronze citizens of this new landmark, representing education, health care and justice. By Joe Wasson
E List: Dusan Stojanovic Former Lions basketball play returns to UAFS as its Sports Information Director, with the right skills of communication and team-building values.
Piecing together the past Sheila Humphrey was inspired to create works of art remembering her family’s history in a new form she may have invented. By Kristin Riggs
departments
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22 Fabric was her brush
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goodies Found in the best area retail stores, all sorts of goods perfect for the season.
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WHAT’S COOKING Add savory flavors to the holiday table with these recipes.
DINING GUIDE Our dining guide recommends the finest local eateries.
eve n t s
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42 Poet to visit library
KIDS EVENTS Special authors visit local libraries, plus other fun and educational activities and wonderful performances.
MUSIC & PERFORMANCE The local creative community presents plays, musical theater, an ongoing documentary film, concerts, shows and fundraising parties.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS Fall is fully here as activities move indoors for lectures, author visits, the chance to learn new crafts, art education, exhibits and more.
On the cover: River Valley Stars quilters, from left, Marcia Beat, Elaine Justman, Sandy Smith, Sue Anderson and Brenda Gigliello represent their club’s mission to create quilts for U.S. servicemen and women as part of the national nonprofit Quilts of Valor project. 6
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Members of the River Valley Stars quilters display only a few of the many patriotic patterns and fabrics they use to create quilts for veterans.
“Stars” craft Quilts of Valor as awards of respect and comfort to service members and veterans
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ne military mother’s vivid dream has inspired volunteers across the nation to sew more than 230,000 quilts that have been awarded to service members and veterans. Meeting the local chapter of this national foundation, the River Valley Stars, reveals how that is possible. Founder Catherine Roberts’ son was serving in Iraq when she dreamed two distinct scenes. The first was of a returned serviceman, sleepless and despairing in a dark night. Then, she saw him wrapped in a quilt, feeling hope and wellbeing. Her interpretation was “quilts equal healing.” The River Valley Stars are local women who took up Roberts’ mission “to cover service members and veterans touched by war with comforting and healing Quilts of Valor.” These lively quilters are wildly productive. Together, they have made and presented 47 quilts over a little more than a year and are working on a list of 30 more they’ve volunteered to create. Over coffee, the busy, pleasant circle of women talked about their quilts. They don’t accept any credit amongst them, and they do finish each other’s stories, as good friends do. They’re a lot of fun to talk with and stay very upbeat. But in recalling some of their experiences, they admit the reactions of the recipients can be touching; even unforgettable. One vet of Afghanistan was “ambushed” by his family, who had requested the quilt. The Stars hid in a hallway and stepped out at the right time. After receiving his quilt, the women noticed him secretly wiping away tears with it. At another surprise presentation at a restaurant, the Stars had made three quilts for three members of one family – veterans of Vietnam, the Air Force and Iraq. It was Veterans Day and other vets dining there took notice. Although each quilt has a personalized, embroidered label, “these three were trying to give their own quilts away to other vets,” the Stars remembered. “We had to stop them from giving away the quilts with their own names on them.”
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Paul Lux, who lives at Mercy Crest, was placed on the quilt request list by his grandson and greatest admirer, Shawn Johnson. Any request starts from the national foundation’s website and is sent to a state chapter, from where the local River Valley Stars volunteered to make his quilt. Mr. Lux sped expertly into the Mercy Crest conference room in his red, sporty mobile chair last month – at the age of 102, he’s a great driver. His family looked on proudly as he beamed at the quilters and audience of applauding staff members. Sue Anderson of the Stars recited the Quilt of Valor presentation speech, honoring his service, thanking him for it and wishing him comfort from his quilt. Lux admired the bright quilt wrapped around his shoulders. “Oh, mercy!” he quipped appreciatively. His was a happy day. These moments are reward enough for the Stars, they insist. “We’re a group – that’s why we sign River Valley Stars and not our names,” a member said. Up to four pairs of hands may have contributed to one quilt; two may make blocks, one may do the border and one of their two members who own long-arm sewing machines do the quilting. The group does not want any individual acknowledgement, but are quick to praise a member who once made 16 quilts herself and another who made a dozen to present Quilts of Valor for an entire unit at a reunion. In November, the Stars will present eight or nine quilts to one Greenwood group. Each quilt will be different. The variety astounds. Almost all of them contain red, white and blue. “We don’t repeat!” is the design motto of the Stars. The group considers itself lucky to have two “long-armers” who produce the elaborate stitching patterns of the quilting. Their programmable, long-arm machines can render lettering or any conceivable ornamentation – and their operators see that they do. The “tops” are equally attractive in traditional and invented patterns. When they commit to fulfill a request, the Stars may already be halfway through a quilt or have a temporary stockpile. Quilts are given in order of scheduled presentations, so they are not created for a specific individual. However, a little match-making can happen because they’ve sometimes made quilts with the theme, colors or symbols that fit a particular person. The patterned fabrics can have unusual motifs such as farm life with patriotic accents, an example in the Stars current stack. Combined with American flag colors, it’s entirely suitable to reflect a veteran’s background and service – especially for many people of our region. Fabric mills introduce new patriotic styles every year and sometimes make donations of material to the Quilts of Valor organization. Obviously, all the Stars love the art of quilting. They gather for “sew days” at a member’s home once a month. It’s a potluck snack day and all chime in to say it’s fun. But they never lose sight of the people for whom they sew. Along with their time, the Stars themselves are the donors of the fabric, batting and thread for each quilt they give away. Donations are welcomed, but should be made through the national, nonprofit Quilts of Valor Foundation website, qovf.org. – Lynn Wasson
Paul Lux with daughters Janie Sharum and Mary Sever; her husband, Lenny; Stars quilter Marcia Beat and Lux’s grandson, Shawn Johnson.
Stars present Paul Lux with his personal Quilt of Valor Last month’s presentation of a quilt to World War II Army veteran Paul Lux was one of many such ceremonies the River Valley Stars have given. Although they recite the same dedication each time, each quilt is as unique as each special person who receives it. Lux, 102, joined the Army in 1939 “to get off the farm,” at Subiaco, Ark., he said with a laugh. He was stationed to protect the Panama Canal in 1940. Lux recorded his memories in an oral history video, which can be viewed at the website arkansasag.gov. His unit went to the European theatre in 1944 where they staged in England and rolled through Paris on Christmas Day. After one snowy night in Belgium, he woke to find he had slept beside a dead German soldier. He had a near miss when the Nazis shelled his mess truck, leaving a deep crater. Lux recalls his war experience with humor and affection for his brothers-in-arms, telling stories of pranks and fun, Quilts fold for a comfy wrap, downplaying the danger they faced. Gen. Patton? “He came through my and will cover a bed, with a matching pillow case. kitchen. We rubbed shoulders,” he said. “I had a lot of fun in the Army.” He remains as good-natured and positive. Lux sent most of his Army pay home to his mother, Ann, who secretly saved it for him. Back in Subiaco, he courted and married Ann Seiter. His mother gave him his Army savings as a wedding gift. They had six children. He remains devoted to his Catholic faith and his family, all of whom clearly respect and adore him. November 2019
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Rebecca Faldon on a trail.
TrailBlazers encourage everyone to try taking a hike any people hear and read about outdoor adventures but believe hiking is only for the young and athletic. “That just isn’t true,” is the resounding response of Rebecca Faldon, founder of Fort Smith’s TrailBlazers Hiking Club. She speaks from experience, for her own introduction to hiking did not occur at an early age. Her first exposure to hiking came while visiting Washington and joined friends on trails in Mount Rainer and Olympic National Parks. She enjoyed the walking and interaction with nature. When she returned home, she decided to see what her state has to offer. With more than 500 natural surface trails winding throughout 17 million acres of forest land, three national forests, 52 state parks and seven National Park Service sites, Arkansas is a hiker’s paradise. But there were no local hiking groups to guide her at the time. By 2002, she had accumulated some hiking buddies. But being a woman alone with no group to join was still fresh on her mind. To make it easier for other women to safely get outdoors, she formed the TrailBlazers Hiking Club. It’s open to all, but females outnumber males 5-to-1.
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If You Hike It, They Will Come Over the last 17 years under the leadership of Faldon and core members, the club has evolved to satisfy all its members’ outdoor aspirations. The members learned a few rules for success. People enjoy getting outdoors regularly and exploring a variety of locations, but do not want a long day of it. So TrailBlazers hikes generally average five miles or less in distance. Drive times to a trailhead are limited loosely to two hours or less. Even within those limits, there is an amazing number and variety of local scenic trails. Each hike has a leader familiar with the route and a sweep person bringing up the rear. A comfortable pace allows plenty of time for exploring the exciting areas the hikers visit. TrailBlazers hike weekly in fall and winter, weather permitting. Each outing is described in detail on the club website, giving distance, difficulty, appealing scenic features, what to bring, plus travel logistics. Carpooling is encouraged. Schedules are listed well in advance. Along with weekly hikes, the TrailBlazers have spring and fall potluck cookouts following that day’s hike. Many plan and join an annual excursion to other states to discover new trails and sights. In
2019, the group visited the Moab, Utah, area to explore five different national parks. With membership hovering around 100, the TrailBlazers have found their niche. Annual dues are $5 but membership is not required to join a TrailBlazer hike. Many folks have been with the club several years and have formed friendships beyond club activities. Three couples who met through TrailBlazers have shared a hike down the aisle. Come One, Come All People who fear they’re too slow to keep up shouldn’t let that stop them from joining an outing. Check out scheduled hikes at thcfs.com or in this magazine’s calendar to choose a hike that matches your abilities, then pack your hiking stick, water and lunch – and go. You will be welcomed. “It’s just a matter of putting one foot in front of the other and then sticking it out to the end of the hike,” advises Faldon. She and other members remember what it was like when they first joined. The TrailBlazers members are a patient and welcoming family. “However,” Faldon cautions, “walking several miles on a paved walkway is not the same as walking that same distance on a hiking trail in the woods.”
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Footing is uneven on natural surface trails, with hidden trip hazards of rocks and sticks. At times, there are unexpected obstacles such as creek crossings, foul weather or steep, rocky hillsides. The club takes it slowly and safely; members help one another. There’s no shame for opting out of tougher terrain. Members and hike guests are responsible for their own safety, for wearing appropriate gear for the weather and terrain and must take their own food and water. Upcoming hikes Nov. 2 is a good starter hike. Walk the park-maintained, 3-mile Yellow Rock Trail at Devil’s Den State Park, with its high rock bluff lines and views of Lee Creek Valley. Rated moderate, as it is mostly uphill. Nov. 9 the club drives to Seven Hollows Trail in Petit Jean State Park, a beautiful 4.2-mile trail with “super scenic” bluffs, boulders, waterfalls and a natural bridge. Difficulty is rated moderate. The beautiful Rim Trail at Mount Nebo State Park, a 3-mile, moderate hike, is the Nov. 16 destination. Nov. 23, hike to Sam’s Throne, a premier Ozarks destination. From Chicken Point, descend and cross a valley floor to Sam’s Throne rock formation. Climb a crack to the top and enjoy great views of the bluffs, valley and mountains. This is an easy-to-moderate hike of about 4 miles. For all these hikes, convene at Cloverleaf Plaza in Van Buren to carpool or caravan. See thcfs.com – by Bob Robinson, camper, kayaker, climber, cyclist, guide book author and occasional TrailBlazer.
A water crossing, top of page. Hikers navigate a narrow rock shelf under a bluff, above. Photos by Katie Shields November 2019
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Great-grandchildren, from left: Mayne Parker, Karolyn Parker Jones, Shirley Parker Wilhite, Charles Parker and Janie Parker Rhein.
Great-great-grandchild Casey Finch with great-great-great-grandchildren Libby P. Finch and to their right, Bailey Katherine Amberg.
The citizens of Gateway Park shaped the city Dedicated last month to the City of Fort Smith, a new park at Rogers and Garrison Avenues is a visual gateway to downtown and, historically, a gateway to both the past and future. It has three permanent citizens. In the center is Isaac C. Parker, whose judicial record is well-told at his courthouse that is now Fort Smith National Historic Site, his judicial bench in our Museum of History and in the annals of history. But this statue also praises Parker as a civic leader. Though it is hard to imagine how he spared the time from his vast federal jurisdiction that included the Indian Territory, he was also a family man, deeply involved in the community. He was a founding board member of St. John's Hospital, later Sparks Regional Medical Center, now Baptist Health-Fort Smith. He joined the local fraternities of Odd Fellows, the Border City Knights Lodge of Knights of Honor and the Grand Army of the Republic.
He was president of the Fair Association and the Social Reading Club and with his wife, Mary, helped create a library. Perhaps his most important outside commitment was to public schools, as a school board member and by leveraging his political influence to help obtain a federal land grant. Honored guests at the park dedication Oct. 17 were Parker descendants. Great-grandson Charles Parker of Catoosa, Okla., thanked the 64.6 Downtown park creators for emphasizing Parker’s citizenship. He shared that he once was excused from jury duty by saying he was descended from “the Hanging Judge,” for which his father, Isaac Charles Parker, chided him, ‘because he was so much more to the city of Fort Smith.’ “I was so happy that his other civic accomplishments such as education were brought out in the dedication,” Charles Parker wrote to 64.6. The values of justice, education and heath care to citizens are symbolized in all three statues. November 2019
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John Carnall 1818-1892 Father of the Fort Smith Special School District
At the podium, Talicia Richardson, on behalf of 64.6 Downtown, conveys Gateway Park to the City of Fort Smith.
o person worked longer to create a proper public school system for this city than John Carnall, now honored with a statue at Gateway Park. Though less famous than Isaac C. Parker or as enduring as the Sisters of Mercy, he is as worthy a historical figure, for many reasons. Over more than 40 years, he persevered to establish a sustainable public school system. The source of funding he won also provided the capital that fueled Fort Smith’s growth. Although Carnall held elected office, published newspapers and prospered in real estate, it is in connection with schools he was chosen as a statue.
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A teacher, but no reliable schools Carnall came to early Fort Smith in 1840, at the age of 22, to open a school. It was financed by a $500 investment by John Rogers, a pioneer Fort 14
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Smith citizen who was determined to leverage the presence of the military fort to build up a prosperous city. Carnall had been educated as a teacher and had three years of experience teaching in Manassas, Va. He conducted that first school (for white children) on North 3rd Street and Garrison Avenue. The town’s few streets had been platted by Rogers, parallel to the river and opposite the fort’s gates. Rogers personally underwrote many ventures to encourage the young town to grow. But the school was closed when Rogers’ investment money ran out. In 1845, Carnall and his wife’s sister opened a private Fort Smith Academy in a large house on North 6th Street, naming the building Belle Grove. After a few years, that school building was leased to other teachers. Pupils paid tuition.
City, county and state booster Carnall turned from the classroom to make a living. He worked as a surveyor for Crawford County, which then included Sebastian County. In 1846, he was elected county sheriff. Re-elected to two more terms, he then was elected in 1851 as the first County Clerk of the newly created Sebastian County, serving until 1857. As clerk, in 1851, he built a 16-foot square, log courthouse in Greenwood, Ark., the first county seat. His lifelong effort to bring roads, bridges and railroads here began then. In the 1850s, he started investing in land and ownership of The Herald, a newspaper founded by John Foster Wheeler in 1847. Carnall and Wheeler used their increasing influence to promote Fort Smith and both became as active as their mentor, John Rogers, who died in 1860.
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GATEWAY PARK At the outbreak of the Civil War, Carnall was elected to the Arkansas (Confederate) legislature. In 1863, Fort Smith was taken by Union forces. Post-war, Carnall resumed publishing The Herald by 1866, reporting on the contentious Reconstruction government. War refugees crowded into town, emancipated slaves and impoverished white families who came in from the countryside. In 1868, the state legislature mandated public education, to be supported by state script. Newspapermen Carnall and Wheeler joined to fight additional taxes the Reconstruction government imposed on citizens, who were still ruined financially by the war. Public schools were opened in 1869, one for whites and one for black students. The school for blacks had been built by the federal Freedman's Bureau in 1868. White children studied in a leased building until 1870, when the school board purchased Carnall's wooden Belle Grove building for $10,000. In 1874, these public schools closed due to the failure of the state script, which could not be redeemed for full cash value. A sustainable funding source was badly needed. Brilliant idea; years of lobbying In 1871, Carnall had spotted a possible solution. He had returned to Virginia to see his dying father and visited Washington, D.C., where he learned that the federal government intended to dispose of surplus military reservations. On the list was the Reserve, some 306 acres originally purchased from John Rogers for the site of the second Fort Smith. Carnall launched a campaign to get this land given to the city. He contracted with the city council for authorization to lobby Congress, at his own expense. If he failed, the city would owe him nothing. If he succeeded, he would eventually be repaid one-fourth of the value of the property received. On Nov. 27, 1871, the city authorized “efficient and influential counsel” to draft bills to present to Congress. Lawyer Henry E. McKee worked in Washington, while Carnall made many trips between Fort Smith, Little Rock and the capital. It was an uphill battle for more than a decade as Carnall tried every means to pass a bill. He got the help of Sen. Powell Clayton, the former Reconstruction governor Carnall had once fought, and U.S. Attorney General Augustus Hill Garland, also a former Arkansas governor. He worked with Arkansas U.S. Congressmen J.E. Cravens and John Henry Rogers. Attorney Benjamin T. DuVal and Judge Isaac C. Parker advised him wisely in strategy.
Congress acted in Fort Smith's favor in 1884, conveying acreage bounded by Garrison Avenue to the Poteau River and from the Arkansas River to South 4th Street. Because of this gift, the Fort Smith “Special School District” was created – and authorized to sell the Reserve property. The agreement specified that money from the sale of the lots could not be spent directly to build school buildings. Therefore, the lots were sold on credit at 8 percent interest and school construction was financed from the interest collected. At the time, the Bank of Western Arkansas, later to be renamed First National Bank, had a reserve of $200,000. But soon after the sale of the lots commenced, the school board took in almost half a million dollars. The availability of this school district capital sparked one of the biggest building booms in the city’s history, funding the construction of some of its largest downtown buildings. Many still stand. This ingenious funding, obtained by Carnall, was the foundation of a sustainable public school system – the same Fort Smith Public School District that exists today. New, brick school buildings were erected, such as the fine brick Belle Grove School and later, the magnificent Fort Smith High School. Equipment and textbooks were purchased and teachers hired. Our school system was superior to any in the state. Floating on a sustainable cash reserve, the Fort Smith Special School District was the envy of the region and the powerhouse of education that continues into the 21st century. Always boosting and building Carnall invested in his city for the rest of his life with purchases of stock in the Fort Smith Loan Association, the Fort Smith Oil Trust, the Fair Grounds Association and the Fort Smith Academy of Music. In 1872, after the death of his brother and sister-in-law, Carnall brought his two young nieces, Ella Howison Carnall and Annie Lee Carnall, to live with his family. Ella was an excellent student and entered the new Arkansas Industrial College, later renamed the University of Arkansas, in 1877. After her graduation in 1881, Ella was an associate professor of English and modern languages. She died in 1894 at the age of 32. Her popularity was such that in 1905, the first women’s dormitory was named for her. Today, it is known as the Inn at Carnall Hall. Carnall accumulated land in Fort Smith, Sebastian County and 15 other Arkansas counties and in Texas. He created new subdivisions, selling lots for $10 down and $2.50 per month, which expanded the footprint of the city.
He used his presses constantly to publish many articles and pamphlets marketing Fort Smith and Western Arkansas. While investing in fruit farming, he advertised the fertile soil and beneficial climate of the region for growing commercial fruit crops, such as apples. He was involved in three newspapers: publisher of the Fort Smith Herald in 1866, co-founder of the Western Independent in 1871 and the Fort Smith Elevator in 1878. On the masthead of that paper were these words: “Yes, while I live, no rich or noble Knave Shall walk the world, in credit to his grave.” The Elevator was published from 1878 until 1909 and became The Weekly Elevator. Carnall's charming home is still standing at 402 South 14th Street, a few blocks from Gateway Park. Next door at 410, he built a three-story, double “tenement house” in 1888. That early apartment building also endures today. Chronic asthma dragged the aging Carnall into decline. On Feb. 16, 1892, he had a good day of health and enjoyed a visit with two sons and his brother-in-law. After stepping to the porch to say goodbye to his last visitor, he began to gasp for breath and was helped back inside. He died quickly, as his wife held him. He was 82, and had spent 60 years championing Fort Smith. Carnall’s legacy In 1962, the Fort Smith Special School District named Carnall Elementary for John Carnall. Except for researchers, who will find many deeds of Carnall in historical newspapers, fewer and fewer people have learned about his significance, until the statue project. Carnall’s statue at Gateway Park is fitting, because also he can stand for progressives like him – those who think beyond their own pockets and act on the belief that a rising city lifts all. During the quest to obtain the surplus military land, Carnall gave up his one-fourth stake in the venture. All public works had likely come under suspicion because of the 1871 federal Court of the Western District of Arkansas kickback scandal. To make sure Congress would give the city the land, Carnall ended his contract with the city. In 1890, he reflected in The Elevator: “Though a great loss to me I feel fully compensated in the city’s great gain for the use of free public schools. Had it not been originated it never could have been consummated.”
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n a lifetime of devotion to the duties of her faith, Sister Mary Teresa helped lay the foundation of both education and health care for Fort Smith and Arkansas. Alicia O'Farrell was born in Ireland, in ancient Naas Parish, County Kildare, Province of Leinster, near Dublin. She entered the Convent of the Sisters of Mercy in Naas under the religious order’s founder, Venerable Mother Mary Catherine McCauley, and received the white veil and the name Sister Mary Teresa. She was described as a tall, fair and well-built woman with large blue eyes and a pleasing personality. As no likeness of her exists, sculptor Spencer Schubert imagined the statue’s face. In 1850, she left for America with Bishop Andrew J. Byrne, who had charge of the new diocese of Arkansas and the Indian Territory. Byrne had purchased 640 acres of surplus federal land in Fort Smith, including old Cantonment Belknap, at the head of what is now Garrison Avenue. On March 6, 1848, he had dedicated the town’s first Catholic church, a small log building on North Third Street. St. Patrick’s would last until the outbreak of the Civil War. To serve his remote parish, Byrne chose Mother Superior Mary Teresa; Sisters Mary Agnes Greene, Mary DeSales O’Keefe, Mary Stanislaus Farrell and five postulants. They crossed on the “John O’Toole” with other Irishmen bound for Arkansas, landing in New Orleans on Jan. 23, 1851, and continuing to Little Rock aboard the steamship “Pontiac.” There, the sisters opened a day school, Mount St. Mary Academy, today the oldest educational institution in Arkansas. In January 1853, Mother Mary Teresa and half the women came by steamboat to Fort Smith. In a former military building at Fort Belknap, they established St. Anne Academy for Girls. They taught the pupils, as well as fulfilling all their other duties. In 1858, Mother Teresa moved to Helena to open St. Catherine’s Academy. The Civil War changed their mission. Their schools became hospitals where the sisters nursed soldiers of both armies, as well as any others in need. She cared for Bishop Byrne until his death on June 10, 1862. In 1868, she returned to St. Anne’s Convent in Fort Smith until her death on Jan. 16, 1892. She is buried near her sibling, Sister Mary Baptist Farrell, and Sister Mary DeSales O’Keefe in Calvary Cemetery near Gateway Park, which is within Byrne’s original land purchase. The towering Immaculate Conception Church, which her statue faces, was not dedicated until 1899. For all of their accomplishments, little more is known of Farrell and her Irish Sisters of Mercy. But at the park dedication, Sister Chabanel Finnegan represented their order’s continuity of charitable work here, Mercy Hospital at the forefront. These resilient women of faith gave Arkansas and this city the earliest of many Catholic schools and hospitals that have benefited the people of the city and which serve still.
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These three historical biographies were researched for Gateway Park by Joe Wasson, who particularly appreciates John Carnall as a person and for the record left by Carnall’s many publications. 16
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Mother Superior
Mary Teresa Sisters of Mercy
A lifetime of service
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energetic•emerging•eclectic e n g a g e d •enlightening•eager•earnest •e d u c a t i o n a l • e n j o y a b l e empowering•entertaining•epic • experienced•endearing • enduring•enriching•excellent e d g y • e d i f y i n g •e l o q u e n t enthusiastic•essential•esteemed exemplary•excellent•exuberant encouraging • extraordinary exceptional• exciting
LIST Dusan Stojanovic
UAFS Sports Information Director familiar face has returned to the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith Lions Athletics Department, helping tell the story of UAFS student-athletes. Dusan Stojanovic took over as the UAFS sports information director this fall, returning to the city and the basketball court he called home for five years. Stojanovic, a native of Lazarevac, Serbia, came to UAFS in 2011 as a member of the men's basketball team. In addition to his academic and athletic pursuits, he served as a student assistant for the dean's office in the College of Health Sciences and interned for the UAFS Sports Information Department. “It’s very encouraging to get to come back to UAFS,” said Stojanovic. “When you go through a program with a support system like the one at this university, you get to see your own story develop through that university, and how you can become successful thanks to the guidance of the people around you. Now, I get to turn around and tell that story to others, I get to tell the community about the successes that are born in this place and the powerful stories of our studentathletes.” “Dusan is a Lion through and through,” said Athletic Director Curtis Janz. “He represents the best of UAFS. We use three words to describe the UAFS culture: love, serve, grow. Dusan lives out those attributes. He loves the institution, the student-athletes, and the coaches and staff. He is a servant leader, and he has the ability to grow, learn and make UAFS better for a long time to come."
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Stojanovic as a player for the 2015 UAFS Lions. Now, he will serve the team as SID.
Stojanovic graduated from UAFS in 2016 with a double major in media communication and rhetoric and writing, plus numerous honors and accolades as an NCAA Division II athlete. Though his first-hand knowledge of life as a student-athlete and his familiarity with UAFS will serve him well in his new role, Stojanovic explained he also was excited to put his intensive study of social sustainability to use professionally. Stojanovic earned a Master of Arts in organizational communication from the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, in May. While working on his master's degree, he taught introductory communication courses and worked as a website content lead within the Office for Diversity and Inclusion at the University of Arkansas. “I’ve focused a lot on community development,” he said. “We have the opportunity to leverage the wonderful things this organization is doing to impact those around us in a positive way. The successes of our student-athletes and our athletics staff are our biggest resource. Telling their stories to inspire others, growing the institution and encouraging excitement about our programs are things I really believe in. There is so much to be excited about.” Stojanovic's background working in the University of Arkansas Office for Diversity and Inclusion and on the Diversity and Inclusion Student Council will also inform his work at UAFS. “I think it’s a really great development of our
university to strive toward a more diverse and inclusive campus. Making sure our students are included and that they feel like they belong here creates a sustainable campus long-term,” he said. “I deeply care about this issue, and I’m excited to work with Curtis, members of the community and everyone on this campus to further that mission. We can be known for that, and I’m really excited about the future.” “Athletics are the front porch of universities,” he added, "and communication is so important to opening that front porch to our community. There are so many success stories of our students that need to be told, and I’m so excited to be part of telling those stories.” – Rachel Rodeman Putnam, UAFS Interim Director of Public Information
The E List is a brief talk with a local person the editors think our readers need to know. We note people who are energetically engaged with our home. They may be emerging or emeritus, edgy, entertaining or enduring, expert, eclectic – we think you follow our point! They may contribute to our region through art, business, entertainment, non-profit work or in ways we haven’t imagined. Readers may suggest subjects for the E List by writing to the editor, lynnwasson@efortsmith.com. Nominations will be given all consideration for an interview in an upcoming issue. November 2019
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Piecing together the past Family’s history woven throughout fabric artwork
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here there’s a will, there’s a way could certainly be the motto of Fort Smith resident Sheila Humphrey. Years ago, she was intrigued by a piece of art in a friend’s home and something special was sparked in her imagination. “I fell in love with it,” she recalled. Sheila was so enamored with the fabric artwork, that she first tracked down the artist, hoping to find something that would work in her own space. However, no such piece existed, and she really had a specific vision on which she was not ready to compromise. “I just couldn't get the picture of what I wanted out of my head and didn't know how to convey it to another person,” she said. That’s when Sheila – an avid seamstress, but also a self-proclaimed “non-artist” – decided to tackle the project. All she really knew at the
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Sheila Humphrey with the fabric artwork she created that depicts her grandparents’ home in Branch. Her Methodist faith (right photo) is represented in the first piece she crafted. time was the piece would be more meaningful if she made it herself and she had a clear vision. She also took the decor of her home into consideration and decided, with her sewing background, fabric would be the most appropriate medium to use. “I have literally had this in my brain for 20 years, but I had to wait until I retired,” the former teacher laughed. Getting started proved to be no easy feat. She had no idea how to create the piece in her imagination, so she turned to the internet for help. While YouTube tutorials can be found on everything from changing the oil in your car to applying eyeliner, the “how to” videos she found about creating fabric art were not very helpful. The finished products never resembled the creation she envisioned. That’s when she enlisted the help of her friend, Kim Been.
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When Sheila told Kim about her idea, she was interested in trying to help. She recalls the conversation: “I was so excited to have a positive reaction from someone instead of the familiar blank stare,” she laughed. The ladies searched the internet for countryside photos. “It was good to have something to look at. We had a color one and a black and white one blown up so we could cut one up – we are amateurs!” Sheila said. “I was so glad Kim wanted to do one, too, when I told her about it. We agreed we needed each other to brainstorm.” Now working as partners on this journey, Shelia and Kim set out to create their first piece. They started with a random picture they liked, with the intention of making more personally meaningful pieces if the first attempt was successful. It took about a month, forming it entirely out of fabric that was cut and ironed on using a soft fuse product. Needless to say, working together and figuring it out as they went along, they were successful. It was not long before Sheila was creating two more works of fabric art with a much more personal subject matter. One depicts family landmarks from her father’s side, including the Gulf gas pumps and the grocery and feed store owned by her grandfather on Highway 23 in the little community of Friendship between Caulksville and Booneville. Sheila’s grandparents owned the store for 42 years and she has many fond memories of spending time there as a child. The other more sentimental piece represents Sheila’s mother’s side of the family. It includes the home in Branch where her maternal grandparents, McKinley and Gussie Shelby, raised their family of 10. She said wonderful memories flooded her mind as she worked. “My goodness, we had fun in that house! There are 20 first cousins and we would spend summer vacations there together,” she said. She recalls watching her grandmother can fruits and vegetables, helping her grandpa in the garden and learning to love the Cardinals. “Grandpa was an avid Cardinals fan and everything stopped when a game was broadcast on the radio,” she said. These precious memories were the driving force behind the creativity and determination she poured into her second and third works of art. As much as she enjoyed creating her first fabric piece, Sheila said the other two are the ones that bring her the most joy. A sentimental person, these creations are priceless reminders of her family’s heritage. Perhaps another attribute one could use to describe Sheila is humble. “I am not an artist. I am just stubborn and wanted to make the picture in my head a reality.”
Sheila’s depiction of her paternal grandparents’ grocery and feed store, including the Gulf gas pumps, on Arkansas 23 near Booneville. Her humble attitude also is evident in her desire to give credit to her friend Kim and the invaluable role she played in making this project come to life. Sheila is thankful to have found the courage to act on her idea, but recognizes wholeheartedly that it might never have happened without her friend’s willingness to embark on the mission with her. Sheila’s project idea was a large undertaking, to say the least. Led by her desire to create something truly unique, she enlisted the help she needed and jumped in head first, learning as she went along. It was pure heart that carried her vision to fruition and many will enjoy the beauty of her labor of love for years to come. – Kristin Riggs
Kim (left) and Sheila documented their progress while creating their first fabric art pieces. 20
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goodies
Vanilla Kahlua, salted caramel Baileys and Torched beer-inspired scented candles from 4 Corks.
Christmas ornaments, wall hanging and plaid change purse from Zoe Bug’s in Charleston.
Saucony running shoes for men & women found at True Grit Running Co.
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goodies
Cut glass pitchers and flower vase found at Designer Again Consignment. Razorback clutch and leopard accent tennis shoes from Firefly Boutique & Gifts.
Sunglasses from Tiffany & Co. available at the office of Dr. Steven B. Stiles – Eye Group.
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goodies
Gluten-free, flavored pastas and crackers available at Paul’s Meat Market.
Seasonal spirits and painted fall tray from In Good Spirits.
TV stands with built-in electric fireplaces available at Mike’s Furniture.
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goodies
Seasonal metal decor from Neumeier Nursery & Florist.
Aveda styling foam and volumizer from Metropolis Hair Studio.
BTL Emsella treatment for urinary incontinence available at Beauty Through Health. 26
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goodies
Custom jewelry found in the gift shop at the Fort Smith Regional Art Museum.
Fun Christopher Radko Christmas ornaments and tea towels with a local touch from Now & Then Shoppe.
GrandeHair rejuvenation hair products available at Vanity Calls.
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goodies Peltor Sport Tactical 300 electronic hearing protector suppresses noise and amplifies low-level sounds. From Center for Hearing.
SpaGuard complete spa treatment from Luther Stem Pools & Spas.
Selection of Rolex watches available at Newton’s Jewelers. 28
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WHAT’S COOKING
Add flavor to holiday festivities Snacks, small bites and savory treats to feed a crowd ROASTED GARLIC WHIPPED FETA CROSTINI 1 bulb garlic (about 12 cloves) 4 tbsp. olive oil, divided 1 tsp. salt, divided 1 tsp. pepper, divided 32 slices baguette 8 oz. feta cheese 1/2 cup whole milk 2 tbsp. lemon juice 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds 1/4 cup parsley, minced
HOLIDAY BAKED BRIE 2 tbsp. unsalted butter 8 oz. button mushrooms, sliced Kosher salt Ground black pepper 1 brie round (8 ounces) 3 tbsp. honey 1/4 cup pomegranate arils 1/4 cup shelled pistachios Crackers or toasted bread, for serving
Heat oven to 350 degrees. In large skillet, heat butter over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms; cook 8-10 minutes, or until deep golden brown, stirring frequently. Season with salt and pepper; remove from heat. Place brie on parchment-lined, rimmed baking pan; drizzle with honey. Transfer to oven and bake 5-7 minutes, or until inside of cheese is softened but outside remains intact. Transfer brie to serving platter; top with pomegranate arils, pistachios and mushrooms. Serve with crackers or bread.
Heat oven to 400 degrees. Slice garlic bulb in half, exposing garlic heads; place in center of large piece of foil. Drizzle each half with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Wrap foil tightly around garlic and roast until caramelized, about 30 minutes. Place baguette slices on large baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Bake on middle rack until golden brown, about 10 minutes; set aside. Place feta cheese, milk, lemon juice, remaining salt and remaining pepper in high-speed food processor. Once garlic finishes roasting, add garlic cloves to food processor. Pulse until whipped and creamy, adding more milk as needed to reach desired consistency. Adjust seasonings, to taste, if necessary. To serve, spread each crostini with whipped feta and sprinkle with pomegranate seeds and minced parsley. Recipe courtesy of Liz Della Croce of "The Lemon Bowl" on behalf of Milk Means More.
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CHEESE BUDS 1 cup cake flour or all-purpose flour 1 cup grated extra-sharp white cheddar cheese 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into chunks 1 tsp. coarse sea salt 1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper 40 pecan halves 1 egg white, whisked with 1 tsp. cold water Smoked paprika Heat oven to 350 degrees. Line baking sheet with parchment paper. Add flour, cheese, butter chunks, salt and cayenne pepper to food processor. Process until ingredients form into ball, about 1 minute. Remove dough from food processor, wrap with plastic wrap and press into flat round. Place in refrigerator 1 hour. Dust counter with flour and roll out dough to 1/4-inch thick. Using 1-inch round cookie cutter, cut out rounds and place on parchment paper-lined baking sheets. Place one pecan on top of each round. Using pastry brush, lightly paint each cracker with egg wash. Sprinkle with smoked paprika. Bake 12-15 minutes, or until buds just start to brown around bottom edges. Remove from oven to cooling rack. Store in airtight container up to 1 week or freeze 1 month. Note: Cheese buds can be made plain without pecans, or pecans can be chopped and sprinkled on after egg wash and smoked paprika.
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PEPPERMINT SHORTBREAD COOKIES 2-21â „2 sticks unsalted butter, softened 3/4 cup powdered sugar 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract 1 tsp. salt 21â „3 cups all-purpose flour 3/4 cup peppermint crunch baking chips In stand mixer fitted with paddle attachment, cream butter, powdered sugar, vanilla and salt until smooth. Gradually add flour and mix on low until combined. Add baking chips and continue mixing on low until fully combined. On wax paper or parchment paper, form dough into 12- to 14-inch log and freeze at least 30 minutes, or until firm. Heat oven to 350 degrees. Cut shortbread dough into 1/4-inch slices; bake 1315 minutes on parchment-lined baking sheets. November 2019
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KIDS
calendar of events
STEAM Team will have a chance to build fun stuff, be active, make art and even make a mess. In this dropin event, STEAM participants will construct their own lava lamps while discovering the properties of density. All supplies provided. Free. 3:30-6 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org. Nov. 4, 18, 25 Beginning Guitar Lessons Ever wanted to learn the basics of playing the guitar? Then this is the program for you! There will be several guitars available for use and a volunteer willing to help others learn the basics. Best for kids ages 10 and up and adults of all ages. Free. 3:30 p.m. Mountainburg Public Library, 225 U.S. 71 North, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-1600
Nov. 4-20 Teen Time Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays the tweens and teens will play games, design a maze and more. Free. 3:30 p.m. Monday-Wednesdays. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-4746045
Konsplosion: The River Valley Comic Con NOV
All ages are welcome at this gathering of fandom forces – where all forms of geek come together for a fun-filled weekend. Konsplosion is an annual three-day event that caters to fans of pop culture, games, comics, sci-fi, fantasy, anime, cosplay and so much more. There will be lots of events and performances for people of all ages. Events that will be for older audiences will be clearly marked in the program, as well as posted outside of the event. While many people prefer to dress up as their favorite character, it is not required. $10-$35; children under 6 free. Fort Smith Convention Center, 55 South 7th Street, Fort Smith, Ark.
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Nov. 1, 8, 15 22 Coding Club At this weekly activity, kids ages 7-12 take on a mixture of unplugged and tech-driven activities to build skills, vocabulary and confidence in computer coding. Reserve a seat. Free. 4:15 p.m. Mountainburg Public Library, 225 U.S. 71 North, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-1600
Nov. 1-27 Teen Group Kids in grades 9-12 meet on Wednesdays and Fridays. Free. 4 p.m. Ralph D. Graf Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226
Nov. 1-30 Dino-Vember Every day this month, the library has dinosaur-themed programs and displays, as well as dinosaur-themed programs for children and adults. There are dinosaurs to visit at the park next-door. Free. Mountainburg Public Library, 225 U.S. 71 North, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-1600 Nov. 1-30 Puzzle Table Stop by the puzzle table in the front of the building by 32 Entertainment Fort Smith November 2019
the reference desk and fill in a few pieces. Free. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140
Nov. 2, 9, 16, 23 Dino-vember Story Time Read books, make crafts and sing songs together to build confidence, literacy skills and lay the groundwork for life-long learning. Crafts: Nov. 2 – Dinosaur Terrariums; Nov. 9 – Dinosaur Detective, Part I; Nov. 16 – Dinosaur Ornaments and Nov. 23 - Dinosaur Detective Part II w/Dino Egg Hatching. Free. Noon. Mountainburg Public Library, 225 U.S. 71 North, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-1600
Nov. 4 DIY Maracas: Children and Tweens Kids love making noise and they will love making DIY maracas out of Easter eggs and spoons! Free. 4 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 Nov. 4 STEAM Team STEAM Team is a monthly program for children ages 8-12 who have an interest in science, technology, engineering, arts and math. Every first Monday, the
Nov. 5, 12,19 Baby and Me Babies, birth to age 3, and caregivers can enjoy songs, finger plays, bubbles, parachute play, a story and play time. This is an opportunity for social interaction with both babies and their adults. This program supports early literacy and language skills. Free. 10:30 a.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 Nov. 5 Hot Sauce Tasting Challenge Are you up for the challenge? Tweens and teens are going to taste a variety of hot sauces! Rate the different sauces from most mild to hottest. Don’t worry; the library will have plenty of water to cool off your taste buds. This program is for library patrons ages 10 and up. Free. 4 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 Nov. 5-26 STEM Activities Science, Technology, Engineering, Art & Math activities for grades 1-5. Call to register. Free. 3:45 p.m. Tuesdays. Ralph D. Graf Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226
Nov. 6, 13, 20 Story Time: Toddlers and Preschool Read stories, sing songs and do activities. There will be a guest storyteller Nov. 6. Ms. Tiffany is a radiologist that will be helping us celebrate National Radiologic Technology Week! On Nov. 13, get wild about pandas! There will be a Thanksgiving story time on Nov. 20. Free. 10 a.m. Cedarville Public Library, 737 Pirates Way, Cedarville, Ark. 479-410-1853
Nov. 6-27 Dungeons and Dragons Dungeons & Dragons has captured the imaginations of creative individuals for almost 40 years. Although it is simple to play, it is a game that uses many skills involving math, storytelling, teamwork, reasoning and creative writing. It also encourages kids and teens to interact socially and explore ideas about different cultures and sociology. Best of all, it is fun! The group is
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KIDS EVENTS varied in age, and the Dungeon Master is careful to conduct the game in a way that is fun and engaging for all. If you’ve got D&D stuff already, feel free to bring it, but everything a first-time player needs to get started will be provided. Free. 3:30 p.m. Wednesdays. Mountainburg Public Library, 225 U.S. 71 North, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-1600 Nov. 6-20 Van Buren Story Time Hear new stories, sing songs, make crafts, make friends and, of course, check out some books. This month, topics will be squirrels, Native Americans and Thanksgiving. Free. 9:30 or 11 a.m. Wednesdays. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 Nov. 6 How to Be an X-ray Tech, Radiologist or Ultrasound Tech Everyone invited! Learn details on beginning a career in the radiology field. Presented by the UAFS staff. Free. 4 p.m. Ralph D. Graf Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226
Nov. 6-27 Rhythm & Rhymes: Infants and Toddlers Looking for an interactive, fun and educational program to enjoy with your infant, toddler or preschool age child? Rhythm & Rhymes is a 20- to 30-minute block of story time full of books, songs, rhymes and finger plays. It also is a great way to introduce your child to language skills in a positive and fun environment. Free. 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays. Mountainburg Public Library, 225 U.S. 71 North, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-1600 Nov. 7 Fall Fun Story Time Celebrate the change of seasons with a special afterschool Fall Fun Story Time. Children and families are invited for an afternoon of stories, songs, arts & crafts and more. This event is co-sponsored by the Fort Smith Public Schools Preschool Department. Free. 46 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229
Nov. 7 Toddlers and Children: Teddy Bear Clinic Story Time Are your kids afraid of going to the doctor? They don’t have to be. At this story time, kids are invited to bring their teddy bears to learn all about doctor visits. Medical professionals will come to the library to teach kids about hand washing, X-rays, splinters and more. Free. 10:30 a.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140
Nov. 7 Teen Time: Scratch and Sniff Watercolor Painting Pumpkin Spice Paint? Teens can be creative with weird watercolor techniques. All supplies provided. Free. 3:30-5:30 p.m. Windsor Branch Library, 4701 Windsor Drive, Fort Smith 479-785-0405 www.fortsmithlibrary.org.
Nov. 7 S.T.E.A.M.: Tweens and Teens Have fun discovering new ways to play and learn at the same time – with robots! There will be a mystery bag for kids to draw a mystery S.T.E.A.M. project from! Free. 3:30 p.m. Cedarville Public Library, 737 Pirates Way, Cedarville, Ark. 479-410-1853
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KIDS EVENTS "Olaf Gives Thanks." Enjoy an action-packed story time followed by a fun craft. Free. 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 www.fortsmithlibrary.org.
Nov. 12 L'heure des enfants (Children’s Story Time) The members of the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith French Club present a special story time in French. Enjoy et durant l'heure des enfants (Children’s Story Time) in French along with an English translation; learn a word or two of the language and have fun with arts and crafts. Free. 4-6 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 www.fortsmithlibrary.org Nov. 12 World Kindness Day Tweens and teens are invited to write letters to a local organization. These letters will be words of kindness and encouragement. Spread some positivity through kind words. Free. 4 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140
An Evening with Author Jan Brett DEC
The Fort Smith Public Library is excited to host children’s author Jan Brett. Brett is the New York Times #1 bestselling artist/author of over 35 picture books which have sold over 42 million copies combined. Her books have been chosen as “Best Children’s Books of the Year” by The New Yorker, Parents, Redbook and others. This evening with the author will feature a discussion and drawing demonstration of her newest book, The Tale of the Tiger Slippers. Inspired by Brett’s tiger research trip to India, it is a gorgeous reimagining of the classic Persian folktale Abu Kassem’s Slippers featuring a poor tiger cub who is a very hard worker. The cub’s mother makes him sturdy slippers to protect his feet from stones and thorns while making bricks and building houses. Eventually his hard work makes him wealthy. He continues to wear his cherished slippers until one day he’s questioned why someone so prominent and successful would wear such tattered shoes. Feeling embarrassed, Tiger tries to get rid of the slippers. However, fate keeps bringing them back. Registration is not required; however, seating is limited. Books will be available for purchase and signing. Free. 5-7 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229
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Nov. 7 Giant Memory Game Everyone invited! Library patrons of all ages are invited to play Memory! Test your memory in a giant memory game. Free. 4 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 Nov. 7, 14, 21 Mulberry Story Time A traditional story time with songs and a craft. Free. 10 a.m. Ralph D. Graf Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226 Nov. 7, 14, 21 All Ages Program Children, tweens and teens – have some fun right after school. This program is a come-and-go time for fam34 Entertainment Fort Smith November 2019
ilies to check out books, make new friends and participate in a variety of activities. There will be a craft on Nov. 7, coding with Ozobots on Nov. 14 and building with LEGO bricks on Nov. 21. Free. 3:30 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045
Nov. 9 Lights, Camera, Action! A Creative Story Time Children and their families are invited to explore literature through creative drama in this special story time featuring all things "Frozen." Wear a Frozen outfit (or come as you are) and have fun with the cast of “Frozen, JR.” and their teacher, Shannon Stoddard, of the Community School of the Arts. Stoddards holds a bachelor’s degree in theater and master’s in Theatre Education. The books are "A Sister More Like Me" and
Nov. 14 Teen Time: Playdough Zen Teens, chill out and relax after school with music, snacks and playdough fun. All supplies will be provided. Free. 3:30-5:30 p.m. Windsor Branch Library, 4701 Windsor Drive, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-785-0405 www.fortsmithlibrary.org Nov. 14 Toddlers and Children: Ballerina Story Time This story time is about a type of dancer, a ballerina! Free. 10:30 a.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140
Nov. 14 Teen Time Teen time is a time designated just for teens, ages 1318, to come in and have fun at the library. There are different activities every month, snacks and tons of laughs. Make a special ornament for the library Christmas trees. Free. 3:30 p.m. Cedarville Public Library, 737 Pirates Way, Cedarville, Ark. 479-410-1853 Nov. 14 Pickle Taste Testing Nov. 14 is National Pickle Day! To celebrate, the library will have a variety of pickles to explore. Some are sour, some are sweet and some are spicy. Free. 4 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 Nov. 15 Bill Cooper's Safe Kids! Fair Join the U.S. Marshals Museum and Cox for the free Safe Kids! Fair to learn self-protection tips and obtain Next Generation Child Safety Kits. Kits come complete with FBI-certified fingerprints, palm prints, photographs, a child safety journal and DNA ID. Hot dogs, chips and drinks will provided. Free. 3-6 p.m. U.S. Marshals Museum, 789 Riverfront Drive, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-709-3766 www.usmmuseum.org. Nov. 15 Miss Apple Blossom Princess Pageant This is a princess pageant for ages 5-14. This is a fundraiser for Miss Apple Blossom/Miss Arkansas River Scholarship Pageant. Miss Arkansas 2019,
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KIDS EVENTS Darynne Dahlem, will be there to sign autographs and take pictures with participants. $5 admission; $40 entry fee. 6-8 p.m. Lavaca High School Performing Arts Center, 701 Davis Street, Lavaca, Ark.
Nov. 16 Miss Apple Blossom and Miss Arkansas River Scholarship Pageants The Miss Apple Blossom/Miss Arkansas River and Miss Apple Blossom/Miss Arkansas River Outstanding Teen Pageants are scholarship pageants. The four winners go on to represent our area at the Miss Arkansas Competition and Miss Arkansas Outstanding Teen Pageant in June 2020 in Little Rock. The ages for the teen division are 13-17 and miss division are 17-25. The eligible counties are Benton,Crawford, Franklin, Johnson, Logan, Pope, Scott, Sebastian, Washington and Yell. $5 children; $10 adults. 6:30-9 p.m. Lavaca High School Performing Arts Center, 701 Davis Street, Lavaca, Ark.
Nov. 17 Sugar Plum Fairy Tea Meet favorite Nutcracker characters for a delightful afternoon of lunch, delectable desserts and snacks, and fun Nutcracker and Christmas crafts. There will be a photo opportunity with the Sugar Plum Fairy, Cavalier, Clara, and other Nutcracker cast members. Nutcracker and Christmas items will be available for purchase. Ticket online through Nov. 11. All proceeds benefit Western Arkansas Ballet, a 501c3 dance academy and pre-professional company. $30 per person; $290 for a reserved table of 8; includes a party helper. 2:304:30 p.m. Fort Smith River Park Pavilion, Front Street and North B, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-785-0152 www.waballet.org Nov. 18 Washer Necklaces: Children and Tweens Inexpensive hardware store washers are the main material in these “boho chic” necklaces. Painted with nail polish, they are a huge hit with older kids and tweens. Free. 4 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140
Nov. 18-27 Thanksgiving QR Code Origami Get ready for Thanksgiving with origami crafts. Use a smartphone to scan the provided QR codes linked to YouTube videos explaining how to complete the different crafts. Both simple and intermediate level crafts will be available. All materials will be provided. Participants must bring a smart phone or tablet with headphones. Free. 9 a.m.-noon. Dallas Branch Library, 8100 Dallas Street, Fort Smith, Ark.479-484-5650 www.fortsmithlibrary.org.
Nov. 18 LEGO Club: Exploring the Jungle Kids, tweens and teens are invited to design, create and build unique creations with the LEGO Club. Supplies are provided – just take your imagination. Free. 5-6 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark.479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org
Nov. 19 Native American Rain Sticks November is Native American Indian Heritage Month and the library is making Native American inspired crafts. Make a rain stick and learn to imitate the sound of rain with this fun craft. You get to keep what you
make. Free. 4 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140
Nov. 21 Thanksgiving Story Time: Toddlers and Children Celebrate Thanksgiving by making it to this story time! Songs will be sung and a turkey craft is yet to be done. Free. 10:30 a.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 Nov. 21 Teen Time: Leaf Rubbing Leaves are falling! Let’s make art. All supplies will be provided and registration is not required for this free event for teens. Free. 3:30- 5:30 p.m. Windsor Branch Library, 4701 Windsor Drive, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-785-0405 www.fortsmithlibrary.org Nov. 21 Native American Arrow Craft November is Native American Indian Heritage Month and the library is making Native American inspired crafts. Make and decorate (kid-friendly) arrows. Become a mighty hunter with your own quiver of arrows!. You get to keep what you make. Free. 4 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140
Nov. 22 Frozen, Jr. Community School of the Arts announces the Children's Theatre production of “Frozen Jr.” Directed by Shannon Stoddard, musical direction by Sheila Mann with theater assistance by Ryan Gonzales with a cast of talented youth actors. $15 adults, $12 children 10 and under; $10 for groups of 10 or more. 7 p.m. Nov. 22; 10 a.m., 2 p.m. and 7 p.m Nov. 23. 9-11 a.m. King Opera House 427 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 4794342020 csafortsmith.org. Nov. 22 Family Bonfire Night Everyone is invited to the nature center for s’mores, good company and a bonfire. Take lawn chairs, blankets and roasting sticks to enjoy the evening sitting around a fire. Free. 5-8 p.m. River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark.479-4523993 https://www.facebook.com/JHARVNC/.
Nov. 25 Teen Lounge: Lava Lamps Teens will tap into their inner scientist by making their own take-home lava lamps while enjoying an afterschool snack at the teen lounge. Free. 4-5:30 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark.479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org. Nov. 25 Emoji Rocks: Children and Tweens Enjoy this fun craft that will is sure to be a hit. Rock Painting? That’s right, but not just rock painting, it’s emoji rock painting! Free. 4 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140
Nov. 26 Teen Advisory Board Meeting This group consists of teens who are interested in creating new, fun teen programs. Snacks will be provided by Ms. Allison. Make sure to sign in to get your volunteer hour. The meeting is an hourlong session to plan teen programs and engage in team-building activities. Must register; stop by to pick up form at the
library. Free. 4 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140
Nov. 27 Thanksgiving Story Time Enjoy Thanksgiving-themed stories, songs and a different craft led by the staff storyteller at this event for pre-school and elementary school aged children. Free. 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Dallas Branch Library, 8100 Dallas Street, Fort Smith, Ark.479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org Dec. 2 STEAM Team STEAM Team is a monthly program for children ages 8-12 who have an interest in science, technology, engineering, arts and math. Every first Monday, the STEAM Team will have a chance to build fun stuff, be active, make art and even make a mess. In December, STEAM participants will learn about air pressure by constructing a balloon hovercraft to decorate and take home. Event is drop-in and all supplies are provided. Free. 3:30-6 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark.479-783-0229 Dec. 6 Lavaca Chamber of Commerce Movie in the Park: “Home Alone” Lavaca Chamber of Commerce is showing "Home Alone.” The movie will be shown inside Lavaca City Hall at 8 p.m. The chamber will be hosting a community chili supper inside city hall prior to the movie. Free. 8-10 p.m. Lavaca City Hall 808 West Main Street, Lavaca, Ark.
Dec. 7 Donuts with Santa Enjoy milk and cookies with the jolly old elf himself. This family-friendly Christmas celebration offers a morning of magical Christmas wonder and excitement for kids who finally get to tell Santa Claus what they want for Christmas. Donuts and other refreshments will be served. Kids can make cute crafts to take home. Free. 10 a.m.-noon. Miller Branch Library, 8701 South 28th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-646-3945 Dec. 7 Breakfast with Santa Your family can enjoy a pancake, talk with Santa and get your picture made, the food and pictures are provided free of charge by the Crawford County Friends of Genealogy. Free. 9-11 a.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 Dec. 7 Polar Express at the Trolley Museum Children are invited to hear a reading of the classic Christmas book "The Polar Express" at Fort Smith’s trolley museum, where kids can also see many railroad artifacts. This event has become a Trolley Museum holiday tradition. Some children wear pajamas or their Christmas clothes to ride the trolley, hear the story read aloud, enjoy cookies and cocoa and have a picture made with Santa Claus, courtesy of Bedford Camera & Video. New this year, A Spanish-language reading of the story will be held aboard the trolley car from Veracruz, Mexico. Volunteers are invited to read and help. Free. Noon-4:30 p.m. Fort Smith Trolley Museum, 100 South 4th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0205 fstm.org November 2019 Entertainment Fort Smith 35
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It’s Fall, Y’all!
A Q D R A K E Y R H N V
Y P B E F U C D T A O S
APPLE LEAF PUMPKIN
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Entertainment Fort Smith
November 2019
E U O T O J O N M R V A
K M R A O N L I K V E Z
WINDY ACORN FALL
R P I E T C D W B E M A
U K O W B N M D L S B P
T I N X A S W E A T E P
Q N R X L T W C E K R L
HARVEST NOVEMBER FIRE
X Y O H L D U E H F J E
H P C B E Z R E D I C Y
CIDER HAY TURKEY
A G A E A I F A V W I G
Y C F D F A L L G L X H
RAKE FOOTBALL COLD
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MUSIC & performance
Cast of the documentary as a posse of deputy U.S. Marshals. Photo by Brenda Yelvington
The Western District continues to entertain Its historical account told on stage and screen The Western District, a play written by Dr. Brandon Chase Goldsmith, brings to life a missing part of Fort Smith history, dramatizing the true history of a fraud and conspiracy of corruption in the federal court and U.S. Marshals Service. After its debut last year, the story goes on as a play with upcoming performances and is becoming a documentary film shot in local settings.
Nov. 2 Annual Vintage Masquerade Ball Presented by the Fort Smith Downtown Business Association to benefit Children’s Service League and the Kitties & Canines Clinic. Enjoy an evening of enchantment with entertainment by the Allison Grace Band, Alpha Audio, Tabitha Graves in collaboration with Don Bailey, and singer Gabrielle Gore. Delicious food and auctions. The theme this year is masked 1930s and 1940s glamor. $60 in advance, $75 at door. Valet parking $5. 6:30 p.m. Temple Live, 200 North 11th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. godowntownfs.org Nov. 2 TJ’s Guitar and Music Program Gala Fundraiser This is the annual fundraiser for TJ’s Guitar & Music Program at the Fort Smith Boys and Girls Clubs, the only free music program for kids in the area, created in memory of musician T.J. Cunningham. Since 2009, the program has supplied musical instruments such as guitars, keyboards and drums and lessons to teach kids to play them. Many in the program would not be able to afford either. Many kids participate and some will go on to play for a lifetime. The gala offers classic rock ‘n’ roll performed by top area musicians. Performers include Big City Moses Band, the Dodging Bullets All Star Band with special guests, the Cabbage Head Horn Section. More local legends performing include Greg Cook, Kaelin Pratt, Ricky Young, Mark Albertson, Tom Ware, Rick Boyette, Larry Matthews, Larry Pearson and surprise guests. This gala is known for an excellent silent auction, desirable door prizes, great food and outstanding music. Tickets available at an Eventbrite link found at the FSBGC website. $50 per person. 6:30-11 p.m. Hardscrabble Country Club, 5211 South Cliff Drive, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-414-3817 FSBGC.org
The account is the same, on the stage or on film: On May 8, 1871, the Western District Court of Arkansas was moved from Van Buren to the location known as Fort Smith’s “Hole in the Wall” saloon, a site occupied today by the restaurant 21 West End. In only 14 months and 20 days, it becomes the most corrupt courthouse in the entire United States. The true, never-before-told story includes the origin of First National Bank and the real reason why Judge Parker was appointed to the federal bench at Fort Smith.
NOV
9-10
The Western District Play: Select Performance for U.S. Marshals Museum Enjoy the live performance and dinner or a brunch and live performance and at the new Rialto Restaurant.
The Rialto was named for a Fort Smith bar historically contemporary with the events of the play. Owned by two U.S. deputy marshals, it was Fort Smith’s premier restaurant from 1859 until 1880. Tickets, $125, include meal. 6 p.m. dinner and 7:30 p.m. show on Nov. 9. A 1 p.m. brunch, 2 p.m. show is Nov. 10. The performances are a fundraiser for the U.S. Marshals Museum. Tickets at eventbrite.com or by phone at 479-769-2406. The Rialto, opening at 720 Garrison Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. The Western District Play The live cast performs on the stage of Van Buren’s Victorian King Opera House. Parental Advisory: Very Explicit Language. Tickets $12 advance; $15 door, available at eventbrite.com. Doors open 6:30 p.m.; curtain time 7:30 p.m. King Opera House, 427 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark.
NOV
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John Jeter Nov. 2 The Sounds of Hollywood The Fort Smith Symphony performs awesome film scores by Hans Zimmer, James Horner, Alan Silvestri, Danny Effman and Jerry Goldsmith with video presentations by multimedia artist Amos Cochran. The program includes Zimmer: “Intersteller,” “The Da Vinci Code,” “Inception,” “Pirates of the Caribbean.” Zimmer/Howard: “Batman/The Dark Knight” Horner “Avatar,” “Apollo 13” Silvestri: “Back to the Future” Effman: “Batman” and Goldsmith: “Star Trek – The Motion Picture.” Tickets online. 7:30 p.m. Fort Smith Convention Center, 55 South 7th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-7575 fortsmithsymphony.org
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music & performance
Nov. 7-10, 13-16 Miracle on 34th Street Fort Smith Little Theatre presents a holiday classic. An elderly man claiming to be Kris Kringle takes a job at Macy’s Department Store as Santa Claus. Unleashing waves of goodwill, he is also regarded as delusional. A single mother raising her daughter alone becomes Kringle’s supervisor. Her daughter dotes on Kringle although her reserved mother cautions her to believe only in facts. Eventually, Kringle faces a competency hearing in court. A young girl’s belief in this Santa Claus and the spirit of Christmas itself is at stake in the verdict. Directed by Brandon Bolin. $12 general admission. 2 p.m. Nov. 10; 7:30 p.m. all other dates. Fort Smith Little Theatre, 401 North 6th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-2966 fslt.org Nov. 9-10 Arkansas State Irish Dance Competition and Feis A double feis weekend holds a state Irish Dance competition and Ozark Mountain Feis. Fort Smith Convention Center, 55 South 7th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. rincearkansas.com
The Color Purple Nov. 11 The Color Purple The powerful story told by novelist Alice Walker was adapted as musical and became the 2016 Tony winner for Best Musical Revival. It is a young woman’s journey to love and triumph in the American South, featuring a soul-raising Grammy-winning score of jazz, gospel, ragtime and blues. Celie is a powerless, abused young black woman separated from her sister Nettie and married off to a brutal man. Her confidence grows through a friendship with rebellious friend Sofia and a romance with Shug Avery, a proud and independent jazz and blues singer. Presented by the UAFS Season of Entertainment 39. Tickets start at $52. 7:30 p.m. ArcBest Performing Arts Center, 55 South 7th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-7300 uafs.universitytickets.com
FEAST YOUR EARS. KUAF November 2019
Entertainment Fort Smith
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music & performance
The Play That Goes Wrong Nov. 12-17 The Play That Goes Wrong What would happen if Sherlock Holmes and Monty Python had an illegitimate Broadway baby? You’d get “The Play That Goes Wrong,” Broadway and London’s award-winning comedy. Welcome to opening night of The Murder at Haversham Manor where things are quickly going from bad to utterly disastrous. Tickets start at $22. Five evening shows and two matinees. Walton Arts Center Baum Walker Hall, 495 West Dickson Street, Fayetteville, Ark. waltonartscenter.org
Nov. 16 Miss Arkansas USA Pageant Miss Arkansas USA 2019 Savannah Skidmore will crown her successor. Skidmore graduated from the University of Arkansas-Fayetteville and is a native of Calico Rock, Ark. She is currently a law student. The pageant contestants will compete over two days with interviews, an activewear/swimsuit and evening gown competition. The Coronation Show will be performed before a full audience. Winners will be the new Miss Arkansas USA and Miss Teen Arkansas USA. They will advance to the Miss Teen USA Pageant. Participants may earn scholarships to Central Methodist University in Fayette, Mo. Ticket $55-$65. 8 p.m. ArcBest Corporation Performing Arts Center, 55 South 7th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. missarkansasusa.com Nov. 22-23 Community School of the Arts: Frozen Jr. The Stars On Stage, young musical actors of the Community School of the Arts, present “Frozen Jr.,” the popular singing, dancing story of Anna, a fearless princess who sets off on a journey alongside a rugged iceman, his loyal reindeer and a naive snowman to find her estranged sister Elsa, whose icy powers have accidentally trapped their kingdom in eternal winter. A cast of talented students acts and performs the popular music from the hit Disney movie. Directed by Shannon Stoddard. Music direction by Sheila Mann. Four performances. 7 p.m. Nov. 22; 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Nov. 23. $15 adults; $12 children. Group rates available. King Opera House, 27 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-434-2020 csafortsmith.org
A Christmas Carol
Adrian Legg Nov. 14 AACLive! Presents Adrian Legg In its yearly tradition of bringing at least one of the world’s best guitarists, Artist, Audience & Community Live! presents British guitar legend Adrian Legg. Acclaimed by critics and fans for his unique acoustic and electric fingerstyle guitar playing, Legg masterfully blends diverse musical styles, influences and inspirations to create a sound all his own. With multiple awards spanning four decades, he has been heralded as a “guitarist of astonishing virtuosity, whose imagination and melodic invention seem unbounded” (Q magazine). He was named as Acoustic Guitarist of the Decade by the UK’s Guitarist Magazine (1984-94), and Best Acoustic Finger stylist in Guitar Player Magazine’s Readers’ Poll for four years in a row. He is a masterful storyteller and entertainer. $40. 7:30-9:30 p.m. 801 Media Center at 5 Star Productions, 801 North A Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-719-8931 aaclive.com 40 Entertainment Fort Smith November 2019
Dec. 5-8 A Christmas Carol The classic story of Ebenezer Scrooge will once again take the stage. With stirring portrayals, period costumes and uniquely arranged Christmas carols, all the elements of a classic Christmas celebration weave together to show of a fateful Christmas Eve when Scrooge finds hope, redemption and the true spirit of Christmas that transforms his life. Earthen Vessels Drama Company, a ministry of Shady Grove Baptist Church, Van Buren, presents this adaptation of Dickens’ brilliant storytelling for the 8th year. The restored, Victorian King Opera House provides the perfect atmosphere and every moment inside feels like Christmas. Six shows. Curtain times are 7 p.m. Dec. 5-6; 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Dec. 7; 2 and 7:30 p.m. Dec. 8. Advance tickets may be purchased Nov. 1-30 at Solid Rock Book Store, Fort Smith; Sweet Bay Coffee Shop and the Farmer’s Co-op, Van Buren or online. Advance $5 adults, $4 children ages 5-12 (under age 5 free). At the door, tickets are $1 more. Free. 7 p.m. King Opera House, 427 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-276-3089 evdrama.com
Dec. 7-8 Keyboards at Christmas Four grand pianos, 26 pianists and choir. Oak Cliff presents Keyboards At Christmas as a celebration of the birth of Christ. The program includes traditional Christmas music presented in a variety of piano and choral arrangements. Featured pianists this year will include Gini Law, Katie Kerr and Lindsay Hobbs. Keyboards At Christmas is Oak Cliff’s gift to the community and the River Valley. Free. 2:30-4:30 p.m. Oak Cliff Baptist Church, 3701 South Gary, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-646-3891 KeyboardsAtChristmas.com
Dec. 8 Lessons & Carols: A Journey from Advent to Christmas St John’s Episcopal Church will present a service of Lessons & Carols featuring the Leonis Chamber Singers of the University of Arkansas at Fort Smith under the direction of Dr. Timothy Workman and the St John’s Choir under the direction of Tim Hess. A reception will follow the service in the Parish Hall. Free. 3-4 p.m. St. John’s Episcopal Church, 215 North 6th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-782-9912 stjohnfs.org Dec. 15 Dailey & Vincent Christmas Grand Ole Opry members, five-time Grammy Award winners individually, three-time Grammy nominees collectively, Jamie Dailey and Darrin Vincent perform. Daily and Vincent play a blend of American music; defined as bluegrass, traditional country and gospel music. “The Dailey & Vincent Show on RFD-TV,” brings their music to a national audience, weekly. $45, $37 tickets by phone or online. 3 p.m. Alma Performing Arts Center, 103 East Main Street, Alma, Ark. 479632-2129 almapac.org Dailey & Vincent
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music & performance
LIVE
in local clubs Choctaw Casino 13400 Choctaw Road, Pocola, Okla. All shows at 9 p.m. at Gilley’s 1 Western Justice 2 Kevin Fowler 8 Heath Wright & The Hangmen 9 Blaze of Glory Bon Jovi Tribute 15 Bordertown 16 Def Leggend Def Leppard Tribute 22 Mister Lucky 23 Texas Flood Stevie Ray Vaughn Tribute 29 Whiskey River Road 30 Break Bad Bad Company Tribute
Cherokee Casino 109 Cherokee Boulevard, Roland, Okla. 1 Backroads 8 Lyle Parman and Slidebar 22 Shenandoah 29 Typsy Gypsy
LIVE
The Majestic 817 Garrison Avenue, Fort Smith majesticfortsmith.com 1 Moonshine Bandits 2 Frank Foster 8 Members only '80s Hairband Tribute 16 Letters from Jett 22 Downtown Throwdown Local Showcase with Big City Moses, Halfway Crooks, Who Shot JR and Typsy Gypsy 30 Mixtapes
Harry’s Downtown 509 Garrison Avenue, Fort Smith 1 Brandon Butler Band 2 Rachel Ammons 7 Chris DeClerk 8 The Halfway Crooks 9 Southern Avenue 23 Ben Miller Band 29 Walt Blythe’s WING IT Improv Night
Hero’s 1002 Garrison Avenue, Fort Smith 2 Hiei’s Hiphop/Comedy #5 9 Don’t Tell Dena with Makin Loaf
LIVEbasketball Temple Live templelive.com 6 Filter 9 The Lacs with The Josephines 14 Preacher Lawson 15 Reignwolf with Starbenders 16 Jerrod Niemann
UAFS basketball november LIONS HOME GAMES 11/9/19 11/9/19 11/10/19 11/10/19 11/13/19 11/21/19 11/23/19 11/30/19
Rated 8+
5:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 2 p.m. 4 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 4 p.m. 4 p.m.
Black Hills State* Tarleton State vs Metro State* Black Hills State vs Tarleton State* Metro State* Central Baptist College Texas A&M International Texas A&M Kingsville Williams Baptist University
LADY LIONS HOME GAMES 11/21/19 11/23/19 11/30/19
5:30 p.m. 2 p.m. 2 p.m.
Texas A&M International Texas A&M Kingsville East Central University
For tickets call the UAFS Box Office at 479-788-7300. *Coke Conference Challenge
Nov. 11, 2019 • 7:30 P.M.
@UAFSLions
ArcBest Corporation Performing Arts Center
@UAFSSports
@UAFSathletics
479-788-7300 tickets.uafs.edu boxof ce@uafs.edu @soeboxoffice
@SOEboxoffice
November 2019
Entertainment Fort Smith
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CALENDAR of events
Nov. 1 Church Women United World Community Day Ravi Thiagarajan will make a presentation on the Hindu Faith as part of a program celebrating the diversity of our world community. Light breakfast served. Free. 9:30-11:30 a.m. First United Methodist Church, 200 North 15th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-414-2239 Nov. 1 Inspirational Book Club Discuss uplifting, inspirational books. Free. 10 a.m. Ralph D. Graf Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226 Nov. 1 First Friday Fun Play Scrabble, the classic word game. Rack up letters, spell a great word and strategize to land on a tripleword score. Free. 11 a.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045
Jeff Willard
Photographic Alliance exhibit Appreciate Arkansas at library NOV
A group exhibit of photography by the Photographic Alliance of Fort Smith is titled “Appreciate Arkansas.” Members have captured many aspects and interpretations in the theme.
1-30
The Photographic Alliance is a local organization for anyone interested in photography in the Fort Smith area. The alliance offers members a wide variety of activities, photo competitions, workshops and photo outings. The exhibit continues through the end of the year. Free. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. Greg Disch Patricia Cale
Nov. 1, 15 Needles and Chatter A creative circle open to anyone who enjoys crocheting, knitting, quilting, cross-stitch, embroidery, sewing, paper crafting or any craft. Take a project and work alongside others. Sharing gives everyone a chance to learn a new skill. Free. 12:30 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 Nov. 1-30 Miller Branch Artists of the Month Larry Millican & Tracy Riley Photographs of Larry Millican and Tracy Riley will be on exhibit. Millican has been photographing nature scenes, landscapes and close-up macro images since 1986. Riley loves macro images of wildflowers and the tiny natural world. Free. 9 a.m.-noon. Miller Branch Library, 8701 South 28th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-646-3945 fortsmithlibrary.org Nov. 1-30 Practice Kindness at Your Library World Kindness Day is Nov. 13, but the Miller Branch is celebrating all month. Share how you spread kindness by contributing to a Kindness Tree. Check out books featuring themes of compassion. Make art for residents of a nursing and rehabilitation facility. All activities available daily. Free. Miller Branch Library, 8701 South 28th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-646-3945 Nov. 1-30 Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood Sweater Drive Won’t you please, won’t you please, won’t you help a neighbor? Participate in Mister Rogers’ Sweater Drive. Build a “neighborly feeling” by donating new or gently used sweaters. Free. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 Nov. 1-Dec. 31 Fort Smith Public Library Holiday Food Drive Help local families by donating to a Holiday Food Drive. One in five people in this area are struggling. One in three rural Arkansas children live in food-insecure homes. Drop off non-perishable food items at any Fort Smith library. All food collected will be given to the Community Clearing House to help hungry families and individuals in the Fort Smith area. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Nov. 1-Dec. 31 Photography by Michael Leonard Innovative photographer Michael Leonard has multifaceted interests and styles. Recognized for printing and presentation techniques, he has trained others in his dramatic style of color and infrared photography. He has won regional photography competitions, toured with the Arkansas Arts Council's “Small Works on Paper” exhibit and shown his work in several states. Free. Dewey's Cafe at the Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 Nov. 2 19th Annual Walk of Hope for Huntington's Disease There is no cure for Huntington's Disease, but research is proving symptoms can be delayed with medication. More than 21 people from this area are in research trials. Walk or bid in a silent auction to support research. All money raised helps local people to be involved in testing and research. T-shirts available for a $10 donation. Free; donations appreciated. 8-10 a.m. Creekmore Park, 3301 South M Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-462-2734 Nov. 2 Annual Coat and Blanket Drive Coats and blankets will be given to the homeless or needy at 10 a.m. at Fort Smith Boxing Club, 116 North 6th Street. Donations for men, women and children accepted at First Church of God in Christ from 9-10 a.m. Monday, Wednesday, Fridays; 6-7 p.m. Tuesdays. First Church of God in Christ, 2037 North 14th Street,, Fort Smith, Ark. Nov. 2 Jim Rowland River Valley Run 5k, 10k and half-marathon races for the River Valley Fellowship of Christian Athletes. A “destination race” course includes a riverfront route and start/finish line at the new Bakery District. Male and female awards in 14 age groups. Half-marathoners receive a finisher’s medal. All runners get a dry fit run shirt and a gift bag. Packet pick-up 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Nov. 1 at True Grit Running Co., 6808 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. Ark. Packets can be picked up on Race Day. 9-11 a.m. The Bakery District, 70 South 5th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-649-8815 rivervalleyrun.com Nov. 2 Walk-In Mammogram Screening Baptist Health Breast Center is making it easier for busy women to get their yearly screening mammograms by opening on a Saturday. A prior doctor’s order is not required to make an appointment or walkin on this Saturday. Scans are offered for women 40 and older who have had no breast symptoms such as pain, nipple discharge or the discovery of a lump. The Breast Center utilizes breast tomosynthesis, commonly called 3D mammography, for breast cancer screening. This produces a three-dimensional view of the breast tissue that helps detect breast cancer in its earliest stages, when it can be easier to treat and more curable. This type of mammography is beneficial for women with dense breast tissue because it provides a clearer picture, reducing the risk of a false positive. Free bone density exams, chair massages, information on breast health and genetic testing for hereditary cancer and refreshments will be offered to those who attend. (The mammography is not free.) Call or go online to schedule. Baptist Health Breast Center, 1500 Dodson Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. baptist-health.org November 2019
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Nov. 2-3 Civil War Battle of Honey Springs Honey Springs Battlefield and Visitor Center presents a fun, educational weekend for families and students with the biannual re-enactment of the Battle of Honey Springs. Beginning at 9 a.m. Nov. 2, students and the public can explore education stations about the Civil War in Indian Territory and the battle itself. Living historians will demonstrate military drills and other everyday activities of soldiers. Sutlers sell 19th-century reproduction military equipment, clothing, books and souvenirs. Food vendors will be onsite. Education Day programs are free. On both days, camps open at 10 a.m. The Battle of Honey Springs reenactment happens at 1 p.m. each day and requires a small admission fee. Special presenters entertain each day, before the battle. The reenactment depicts the largest of approximately 107 documented Civil War military engagements in present-day Oklahoma, commencing on July 17, 1863, just two weeks after the battles of Gettysburg and Vicksburg. Approximately 9,000 Union and Confederate troops, mostly American Indians and African Americans, served in the Battle of Honey Springs. Around 200 casualties were suffered. After a decisive Union victory, Confederates lost control of Indian Territory north of the Arkansas River. The Union victory won Federal control of Fort Gibson in Indian Territory and Fort Smith in Arkansas. Admission to the battle re-enactment and camp is $5 for adults. Children ages 12 and under are free. Honey Springs Battlefield and Visitor Center is located east of U.S. 69 between Oktaha and Rentiesville. The Visitor Center is located on a hill in close proximity to the Oklahoma Blues Hall of Fame in Rentiesville. Take the second left after reaching the Oklahoma Blues Hall of Fame Museum (driving from the west). Near Rentiesville, Okla. 918-473-5572
IC Ladies Auxiliary 50th Annual Holiday Bazaar
Nov. 2-3 The bazaar will showcase items handmade by its members, including quilts, baby items, dolls, needle works, Christmas decorations, floral arrangements, wooden gifts, linens, aprons and crafts. A country store sells the auxiliary's famous featherbed rolls, cinnamon rolls, cakes, pies, jellies, candies and cookies. Merchandise includes love plants, Rada knives and frozen casseroles to go. There will be a silent auction and raffle of a quilt and handmade items. Small children's gifts are mostly priced around $1. Lunch will be available from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. on Saturday. The bazaar will be open from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday and from 8 a.m. to noon on Sunday. Free admission. 9 a.m.-noon. Immaculate Conception Catholic Church Parish Center, 22 North 13th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. Nov. 3 Crawford County Chronicles Drennen Scott Historic Site will conduct its final Crawford County Chronicles program of this season. Site director Tom Wing will introduce “Song of Arkansas,” a historical film about the state, and discuss the making of the film and details within it. Wing will be joined by musical guests Squirrel Brains and Gravy. The group specializes in 19th century acoustic music with fiddle, banjo and bass. Free. 1:30 p.m. Drennen Scott House, 324 North Third Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-651-3945
Ecotones, Peter Cullum Nov. 3 Urban/Natural Opening Reception and Exhibition Center For Art & Education presents an Urban/Natural Exhibition. In the main gallery, Peter Cullum’s exhibition, Ecotones, portrays landscapes through the techniques of portraiture. Utilizing layered and non-blended application, he creates an illusion of space and form in rooted tree trunks. Cullum is assistant professor of studio art at the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith. He received an MFA from the University of Colorado-Boulder. In the Studio Gallery is J.L. Medeiros' series Zero Hour/Moment of Truth portrays ‘the flow state’ or temporal existence in which decaying buildings are suspended in moments of geometric composition, placing an emphasis on their forgotten fragments. Enjoy light refreshments and music by Moz Art Studios. The exhibition continues through Nov. 29. Free. 1-4 p.m. Center for Art and Education, 104 North 13th Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-7767 art-ed.org 44 Entertainment Fort Smith November 2019
Nov. 3 Star Wars Trivia Test your Star Wars knowledge with several rounds of Star Wars-themed trivia. Prizes will be given for top two teams/individuals. Compete as a team (up to four) or play solo. Teens and adults welcome. May the Force Be With You or your team. Free. 2-4 p.m. Dewey's Cafe at the Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 Nov. 3 Women’s Literary Club of Van Buren Open House The Women’s Literary Club of Van Buren will host an open house with light refreshments. The public is invited to tour the premises and hear an oral history of the literary society, formed in 1896 and today one of the oldest surviving literary societies of its type in the nation. The 1903 historic church building has recently been remodeled and is now available for parties, weddings, meetings and receptions. Free. 2-4 p.m. Women's Literary Club, 421 Webster Street, Van Buren, Ark. 870-489-0718
Nov. 4 Friends of the Mountainburg Library Meeting This Friends of the Library non-profit organization is dedicated to serving the Mountainburg Public Library and its patrons. They volunteer, publicize, raise funds, and help the library in any way needed. The group is riotously fun and always has a good time together. 3:30 p.m. Mountainburg Public Library, 225 U.S. 71 North, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-1600 Nov. 4 Mountainburg Book Talk Mountainburg Library’s book club talks about a book they’ve been reading for the month and picks up next month’s title. Snacks are served. Free. 5 p.m. Mountainburg Public Library, 225 U.S. 71 North, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-1600 Nov. 4-18 Ballroom Dance Lessons Learn to dance! It is great exercise and a lot of fun. Mike and Lisa Lawrence teach group dance lessons on Mondays. Advanced lessons at 6:30 and beginner lessons at 7:30. Dress attire is casual. $5 per person. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Fort Smith Senior Activity Center, 2700 Cavanaugh Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-208-1072 Facebook-Step in Time Dance Class. Nov. 4, 18, 25 Color Me Happy Adults can enjoy a relaxing time while coloring elaborate patterns and images. The library furnishes all supplies. Mondays. Free. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 Nov. 4-25 Yoga at the Cedarville Library The purpose of yoga is to create strength, awareness and harmony in both mind and body. The physical benefits of yoga include flexibility, increased strength, improved respiration, cardio health and better balance. Free. 10 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. Library closed Nov. 11. Cedarville Public Library, 737 Pirates Way, Cedarville, Ark. 479-410-1853 Nov. 5 Rivervalley Artisan Market Downtown’s evening artisan marketplace offers handmade art, clothing and other wares, food vendors and fun, family-friendly activities. Free admission. 5-9 p.m. Ross Pendergraft Park, 200 Garrison Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. Nov. 5 Adult Craft Class A monthly craft class for grown-ups, to nourish or renew creativity. All supplies are provided. Register by phone for limited seating. Free. 1 p.m. Ralph D. Graf Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226 Nov. 5 Cutting the Cord! Cable Free Options for TV Entertainment Learn about the option to “cut the cord” and move away from cable and broadcast TV to streaming video services. Staff will discuss available streaming services, explain the devices required to use them and review the overall benefits digital streaming. Free. 6-8 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Nov. 5 Artist Lecture by Steven Wise The Department of Art at the University of ArkansasFort Smith presents a lecture by artist Steven Wise. Wise will discuss the theoretical and technical aspects of the work presented in his exhibition, “Two Rooms,” which is currently installed in the Windgate Art and Design Main Gallery. His experiences hiking and camping in the Ozarks relate to his new series “O... is for Ozarks.” Wise will also explore the issues at work in “D... FORTY paintings after D10 - Stephen Wise FORTY years of age, the large group of paintings that he completed over the last decade as part of a project to complete four paintings each year as he aged from 40 to 49. Wise teaches elementary art in the Rogers Public School District. He discusses how teaching young people influences the creation of his own art. Light refreshments available. Free. 6 p.m. UAFS Windgate Art & Design, 5210 Kinkead Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. uafs.edu Nov. 6 Discover Drawing A drawing class for adults is led by Anna Lewis. She has been teaching drawing and art for more than 30 years as a public schoolteacher and private art teacher. The class covers a different drawing technique every first Wednesday of the month. Explore various materials such as graphite, charcoal and chalk. No registration is necessary. Free. Noon-2 p.m. Miller Branch Library, 8701 South 28th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-646-3945 fortsmithlibrary.org Nov. 6 Seniors Social Whether you are in your 50s, 60s, 70s or 80s, you can join in activities that keep you young and active. The library will have board games, puzzles, bingo and other activities each month. Free. 2 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140
Screen Print, J.L. Medeiros Nov. 6 Zero Hour/Moment of Truth with J.L. Medeiros Artist J.L. Medeiros will talk about the screen-printing process as well as her technique and concept behind her series Zero Hour/Moment of Truth. If you are interested in screen printing and local architecture, her lecture will address both. The talk is a preview of her process and a prelude to a workshop she will lead Nov. 30. Light refreshments and beverages provided. Free. 5-7 p.m. Center for Art and Education, 104 North 13th Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-7767 art-ed.org November 2019
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Nov. 6 Clayton House Wine Tasting Clayton House hosts an evening of fine wines and delicious light fare. Sommelier Francois will guide guests through fabulous wine samplings. Special pricing on wine sales. Conversation at 6 p.m. Tasting begins at 6:30 p.m. $25, 21 and older. Reservations required. 6-8 p.m. Clayton House, 514 North 6th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-3000 claytonhouse.org Nov. 6 Mulberry Library Book Club Discussed “Before I Go to Sleep” by S.J. Watson. Free. 10 a.m. Ralph D. Graf Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226
Ongoing opportunities at RAM through the new year Nov. 1-Jan. 5 Norma Tomboulian: Life into Clay Tomboulian studied painting and sculpture at Cornell University and at the County Center in White Plains, N.Y. In 1977, she moved to northwest Arkansas and has resided there since. She is an accomplished painter and sculptor. This exhibit showcases works of her sculpture and watercolor as well as sculpture and artwork by other artists she has collected. It also includes The Camelot Chess Set, which is 16 life-sized busts from the Arthurian legend, a part of RAM’s Permanent Collection. Nov. 1-24 David Mudrinich – An Element of Nature: Drawings, Paintings and Beehives David Mudrinich is an artist and art professor at Arkansas Tech University, intrigued with the natural environment as a sense of place. These works are inspired by the Oklahoma Tallgrass Prairie and the OzarkRiver Valley region. A variety of 2D media includes oil, pastel and conte crayon. The compositions portray both expansive space, along with more intimate observations such as a hive of bees. 46
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Nov. 1-Jan. 3 Addison Graham 21 Years: In Search of Ground Addison Graham of Fort Smith attends Arkansas Tech University for a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. She enjoys painting and printmaking. Her work is inspired by visiting new places, music and by new experiences. Deadline Nov. 15 Call for Photography: Maximum Exposure RAM invites photographers to inspire us with your photography, no matter the style, subject matter or genre. Landscapes, portraits, reportage, conceptual, personal documentary, travel. From spontaneous street moments to meticulous studio set-ups, submit your technique, vision and creativity for selection. Accepted entries announced Dec. 6. Exhibit Jan. 10-April 19. The public will vote to select one winner to receive a solo exhibit. Entry rules can be found online. Admission is free to RAM, which also holds regular monthly programs for children and homeschooled students. Workshops and lectures are presented. The permanent collection includes the Dr. William E. Knight Gallery of fine Boehm porcelain. RAM hours are 11 a.m.-6 p.m. TuesdaySaturday and 1-5 p.m. Sunday. Free. 1601 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-7842787 fsram.org
Nov. 7 Fort Smith Musical Coterie American Music Month To celebrate American Music Month, a program will feature “Parade of American Music: Our Musical Mount Rushmore” and a presentation on American composition by Donna Smith. Refreshments served. Free. 10 a.m.-noon. Home of Denise Weakley, 12511 Dunston Drive, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-414-2239 Nov. 7 Bring Your Own Device Library staff will answer basic questions about various digital devices and teach attendees how to access the library's electronic resources such as Overdrive, Kanopy, Mango and Learning Express. Drop in and talk individually with a staff member to learn about using your model of phone, tablet or other device. Be prepared to know and use your usernames, email and passwords. Charge the devices beforehand. Preregistration is preferred but not required. Free. 2-4 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229
Nov. 7 First Thursday Films: Days of Wine and Roses This dramatic 1962 film depicts the downward spiral of a couple who succumb to alcoholism and their struggle to escape the damage it does to their lives and family. Directed by Blake Edwards, it stars Jack Lemmon and Lee Remick. Actors Charles Bickford and Karl Malden were acclaimed for their supporting roles. An Academy Award went to the film's theme music, composed by Henry Mancini with lyrics by Johnny Mercer. “Days of Wine and Roses” had a lasting effect in its time in reinforcing the growing social acceptance of Alcoholics Anonymous. Director Edwards became a non-drinker a year after completing the film and went into substance-abuse recovery.117 minutes. Not rated, but it contains adult subject matter. Free. 6-8 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Nov. 7 Sip Shop Support Enjoy an ultimate girls night, including a fashion show, hors d’oevres and cocktails, an Italian-themed pasta bar, raffles and shopping from local favorite boutiques and vendors. One hundred percent of the event’s proceeds goes to support the Children's Emergency Shelter and the foster care children it serves. Order tickets online or by phone. $75; $1,000 tables of 10. 6-10 p.m. Hardscrabble Country Club, 5211 South Cliff Drive, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-242-5771 childrensemergencyshelter.org
Heavy acrylic, B. Duncan Nov. 7 B. Duncan Art Lecture and Workshop Go beyond color harmonies with a lecture and workshop series where artist B. Duncan will delve deeper into the complexities of color theory. To “see” color and color relationships is a base from which artists can use their own license to push contrasts and create nuances. In the lecture, the color spot method of artist Henry Hensche will be further expanded, as well as the color contrast theories of Johannes Itten and Paul Klee. Put these concepts in action during the workshop, with a large, extended still life and a limited color palette. Artist and educator B. Duncan holds a Bachelors of Art from the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith. She works as a co-curator of Bastion Gallery in Fort Smith as well as gallery assistant at the UAFS Windgate Art and Design Main Gallery. Light refreshments provided during both events. $100 member; $150 non-member. Lecture, 6-7 p.m. Nov. 7. Workshop 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Nov, 9. Fort Smith Regional Art Museum, 1601 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. Nov. 7, 14, 21 Yoga at the Library Teachers, parents and kids are welcome to a yoga class after school. A half-hour class leads participants to stretch, move, breath and practice balance. This gentle and easy session is led by Margaux, the library branch director, who is learning about yoga along with the group. She will be wearing regular work clothes and will practice without a yoga mat, but feel free to bring a yoga mat or towel. Free. 4 p.m. Mountainburg Public Library, 225 U.S. 71 North, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-1600 Nov. 8 Northside vs. Southside High School Football The tradition called the Battle of Rogers Avenue continues although the opposing Fort Smith high school teams now belong to different conferences. The crosstown rivalry lives on as a non-conference game for the eternal bragging rights. 7 p.m. Jim Rowland Stadium, Southside High School, 4100 Gary Street, Fort Smith, Ark. November 2019
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Nov. 8 Bingo for Books Adults and Seniors Everyone will win at least one book. Fun, laughter, and books for all. Free. 10 a.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 Nov. 8, 22 Needles and Chatter Needles & Chatter is open to anyone that enjoys any kind of crafts; crocheting, knitting, sewing, quilting, cross-stitch, embroidery, paper-crafting, and anything else. Just take your own project discover new hobbies. Free. 12:30-2 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045
Annual Chaffee Crossing Veterans Day Parade and Veterans Day Service at National Cemetery NOV
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Veterans Day Parade at Chaffee Crossing
With the Historic District at Chaffee Crossing as its backdrop and route, this regional Veterans Day Parade has grown to become a grand tradition. Parking is plentiful, many participate and the backdrop of the former Fort Chaffee, with its museums and preserved barbershop where Elvis got his G.I. haircut, is perfect.
The 2019 theme is Arkansas Veterans Hall of Fame. The theme was chosen to coincide with the induction of three local men into the Arkansas Veterans Hall of Fame on Nov. 2. All three served in the U.S. Army as combat helicopter pilots in the Vietnam War. They are retired Capt. Tollie Adkins Jr.; retired Lt. Col. Billy B. Dooly; and retired Chief Warrant Officer 3 Robert A. Johnson. The parade will honor WWI veterans and their descendants. It also will celebrate the 100th anniversary of the American Legion. In a private ceremony, several local veterans will receive service medals. A special exhibit honoring highly decorated WWII veteran and Fort Smith man First Lieutenant (Former) U.S. Army Harry Shipley will be on display in the Museum of Chaffee History. Admission is free at the two Chaffee Crossing Historic District museums. Register to participate online to receive instructions. The parade begins at noon. Spectators should arrive early. Parking is free. Chaffee Crossing Historic District, 7313 Terry St., Fort Smith, Ark. chaffeecrossing.org
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Nov. 11 Veterans Day Ceremony A respectful ceremony and wreath-laying will be held 11 a.m. at the Fort Smith National Cemetery, 522 South 6th Street, Fort Smith, Ark.
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Nov. 9 Denim & Diamonds A fundraiser benefitting Western Arkansas Ballet, a 501c3 dance academy and pre-professional company. Dinner catered by Art's BBQ, drinks, music by the Allison Grace Band, silent auctions, a gift card pull and other fun. Wear your favorite jeans and best bling! Tickets online. $55; $400 table of 8. 7 p.m. Fort Smith River Park Pavilion, Front Street and North B, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-785-0152 waballet.org Nov. 12 The Book Lover’s Club The only requirement for this club is to love to read. Read fiction or non-fiction and give a short report on up to three titles. Meets the second Tuesday of every month. Free. 10:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org Nov. 12 What Exactly IS Vaping? Learn about vaping, which is the use of electronic cigarette devices for inhaling and ‘smoking’ different flavors of tobacco and non-tobacco liquids. Free. 6 p.m. Ralph D. Graf Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226 Nov. 12 Book Talk Discover and discuss new books. Snacks provided. November’s title is “Ordinary Grace” by William Kent Krueger. Teenager Frank Drum has a grim summer. Accident. Nature. Suicide. Murder. He was forced to demonstrate a maturity and gumption beyond his years. Forty years later, he recalls what he learned. Free. 6 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Nov. 12 Adult Coloring Coloring reduces stress. Pages and art materials are provided, or take your own designs and colors. Free. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 Nov. 12 Wild Edibles Learn which plants are edible and where to find them in Arkansas. Charles Griffith has been teaching about wild edibles since the early 1980s, including plant walks at Yellowstone National Park. Registration requested. Free. 6-8 p.m. River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-4523993 Facebook - JHRVNC Nov. 12 Crawford County Genealogical Society Guest speakers share fascinating stories of Crawford County history. Expert volunteers can help with your genealogy. Free. 1 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140
Volunteers develop exhibits and new attractions for the Fort Smith Museum of History Generous volunteers and community partners are enhancing the experience at the Fort Smith Museum of History. The ArcBest Corp. presents a yearlong exhibit of the history of the Fort Smith freight line, opened last month.
Nov. 14 QuickBooks Payroll Workshops The Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center presents two QuickBooks Payroll workshops. A 9 a.m. to noon session teaches QuickBooks Pro, Premier and Enterprise users to learn the payroll features in the desktop version of QuickBooks. 1-4 p.m. session is for cloud-based QuickBooks (Simple Start, Essentials or Online Plus). Learn payroll features in the online portal. Both sessions cover tracking employee time, paychecks and payroll reports. A computer is provided and take-home book provided. Register by phone or online by Nov. 13. $65 per session. Landmark CPAs, 3101 South 70th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-356-2067 asbtdc.org/russellville-events
Mardell McClurkin has donated a Woods Electric car in remarkable condition for its turn of the (20th) century age. A new Victorian-era classroom invites pupils to sit at wooden desks and do sums on slates. Kids also meet a live Judge Isaac C. Parker and his wife. Or they can travel to the rock’n’roll era with DJ Carl Riggins in a real radio studio. Admission is $7 adults; $5 military and $2 children. Open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday. Fort Smith Museum of History, 320 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-7841 fortsmithmuseum.org
Volunteer Carl Riggins operates a real radio station board and spins records in the On the Air exhibit he conceived and helped to create.
Volunteers Sue and Sonny Robinson portray Isaac and Mary Parker for hundreds of visitors.
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Nov. 14 Authors in the Afternoon with Rachel Rotert Fort Smith author Rachel Rotert will sign her book, “God’s Great Love,” which walks through each book of the Bible, simplifying each chapter using contemporary, conversational language. Copies available for purchase. Free. 4-6 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 Nov. 15 PRIME River Valley Professional Summit The second annual PRIME Summit is an educational and networking opportunity for area professionals of all ages. Register online. $25; $15 students. 8:30 a.m.6:30 p.m. The Bakery District, 70 South 5th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-7026 primefortsmith.com
Nancy Ahlert, as early Fort Smith teacher Martha Jane Walker, teaches visiting pupils in a Victorian-era classroom Volunteers created the exhibit, installing desks and school artifacts. 50
Nov. 13 Special Christmas Craft Adults may make a holiday craft. Register. Free. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Ralph D. Graf Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226
Nov. 15 Cook & Clean Your Catch Arkansas Game & Fish staff demonstrate how to clean the fish you catch and several ways to cook it. Registration is required. Free. 5:30-7:30 p.m. River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-3993 Facebook - JHARVNC
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Nov. 15-16 Library System Holiday Bake Sale & Bazaar Friends of the Crawford County Library System hold a holiday bake sale, bazaar and silent auction. The libraries ask for donations of handcrafted items to sell. Table rental fee $20. 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Nov. 15; 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Nov. 16. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 Nov. 16 Hunter Education Course Free course teaches the fundamentals of safe and responsible hunting for all ages. Anyone born on or after Jan. 1, 1969, must complete a hunter education course and carry a valid hunter education card to hunt in Arkansas. Instructor-led class with hands-on demonstrations. Class ends with a test to pass the course. Online registration required. Pick Arkansas as the state, and view upcoming events for Hunter Education Classroom to find the specific date. Free. 6 p.m. River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-3993 register-ed.com
An Evening with the Author: Elizabeth Acevedo OCT
The Fort Smith Public Library welcomes National Book Award-winning, young adult author and poet Elizabeth Acevedo for an author talk and book signing. Copies of her books will be available for purchase and signing.
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Acevedo is a New York Times bestselling author of “The Poet X” and “With the Fire on High.” Her critically acclaimed debut novel, “The Poet X,” won the 2018 National Book Award for Young People’s Literature. She is also the recipient of the Printz Award for Excellence in Young Adult Fiction, the CILIP Carnegie Medal and the Boston Globe-Hornbook Award. Additionally, she was honored with the 2019 Pure Belpré Author Award for celebrating, affirming and portraying Latinx culture and experience. Free. 6-8 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229
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Nov. 16 Network of Executive Women Fall Food Drive Network of Executive Women annually holds a food drive during Thanksgiving season. The 2019 recipient is The Salvation Army. NEW is an association of women professionals, executives and business owners in the greater Fort Smith region. Facebook-Fort Smith Network of Executive Women. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Drop off food at Bancorp South parking lot, 1222 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. newfortsmith.com Nov. 16 ArtsWalk Downtown Fort Smith Artists exhibit works at a series of locations around downtown. The walk begins at 703 Rogers Avenue, adjacent to Core Public House. There is a scavenger hunt along the walk for a little extra fun to go along with all of the incredible art to explore. Food trucks will be open. Interactive, live art installations and live music by the Escape Tones, Allison Grace Band and the Crumbs at a post-walk celebration. Artists, inquire about participating online. Free parking available in the Rogers Avenue city parking garage. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Arts Walk. 8:30 p.m. celebration.theartswalk.com Nov. 16 Breastfeeding Class Classes prepare mothers for successful breastfeeding by discussing the its benefits, explaining how to get started, teaching basic techniques and providing solutions to common problems. Classes are open to all breastfeeding mothers or women interested in breastfeeding. Take along a support person who will learn the same basic skills and support you while you are in the hospital and at home. Free, registration required. 9:30-11:30 a.m. Baptist Health, 1001 Towson Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 1-888-BAPTIST baptisthealth.com Nov. 16 Interactive Movie: The Princess Bride (PG) Inconceivable! Interact out loud with the hilarious 1987 movie. There will be no shushing as the audience will rhyme with Fezzik, kazoo the Jaws theme song when the shrieking eels attack, exclaim Westley's love, and more! If you're feeling extra festive, dress as your favorite character. Free. 1-3 p.m. Miller Branch Library, 8701 South 28th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-646-3945
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Nov. 16 Rivervalley Artisan Market Browse through the tents of downtown, open-air artisan marketplace with local sellers who offer handmade and imaginative arts, crafts, clothing and more. Music and family-friendly activities. Pets welcome. Meals and beverages available from local food trucks. Free. 5-9 p.m. Ross Pendergraft Park, 200 Garrison Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. Nov. 16 Autumn Coloring Station Get into the fall spirit with autumn-themed coloring. A coloring station with materials and designs suitable for teens and adults available. Free. 9 a.m.-noon. Dallas Branch Library, 8100 Dallas Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-484-5650 Nov. 16 Diamond Dance Dance the night away! Make new friends in a relaxing atmosphere. No membership required. A variety of music is played. Cheaper than a movie and a lot more fun! Dress code is dressy casual. $5. 7-9 p.m. Fort Smith Senior Activity Center, 2700 Cavanaugh Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-208-1072 Facebook-Step in Time Dance Class. Roark Bluff, Buffalo National River
Arkansas Splendor:Tim Ernst at River Valley Nature Center NOV
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Experience the stunning photography of Arkansas nature photographer emeritus, Tim Ernst. In a big-screen slide show, Ernst shares his images of thundering waterfalls, quiet emerald pools, moonrises and star-studded nightscapes.
Ernst has been photographing the Natural State as a professional photographer for more than 40 years and is appreciated by hikers as the author of some of the definitive trail guides to Arkansas trails. He has personally blazed and maintained many miles of trails. He founded and was the president of the Ozark Highlands Trail Association for 28 years. This organization, with members in 25 states and five foreign countries, has contributed 350,000 hours of volunteer labor to the U.S. Forest Service and various local agencies. He was also president of Friends of White Rock, the volunteer organization that restored and re-opened the lodge and cabins at White Rock Mountain in the Ozark National Forest. From his home in the Buffalo River country, he has especially focused its beautiful, unspoiled state-protected forests, mountains and waterways. He also captures other iconic natural scenery across the country. His photographs have appeared in hundreds of national, regional and local publications. Some of his credits include National Geographic, Audubon, Backpacker, Outside, Outdoor Photographer, American Hiker, Natural History, Country, Chevy Outdoors, and Arkansas Times magazines, Sierra Club and Hallmark calendars, National Park Service and U.S. Forest Service maps and brochures, Readers Digest Books and The New York Times. Nineteen collections of Tim's wilderness photographs have been published as coffee table picture books. Sponsored by the TrailBlazers Hiking Club and the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission. Free. 24 p.m. River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-3993 Facebook - JHARVNC Photo above from Ernst’s Classic Wildnerness Series is also in his book “Arkansas Splendor.” Many of his photographs are available as fine prints. His works can be ordered at timernst.com. 54
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2017 gala guests. Nov. 16 12th Annual Black Tie Bingo Gala Fort Smith Public Library Endowment presents a fabulous night of fine dining and wines, exciting BINGO games and outstanding raffle items in support of the Library Endowment Trust. Daren Bobb and Erika Thomas of 5News will be the emcees. Entertainment by the Don Bailey Jazz Ensemble and Dr. Kathleen Lavengood, violinist. Proceeds of this annual fundraiser help to fund the library’s imaginative programs and buy materials used by all library patrons.Tickets by phone or online. $150. 7-11 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org Nov. 17 3rd Sunday Art Show Every third Sunday of the month, Michael's Mansion opens its art gallery to the public. See works shown by selected local artists. Meet and talk with the artists, enjoy browsing beautiful original artworks and taste refreshments prepared by Chef Mike. All works are for sale. Free. 1-4 p.m. MIchael's Mansion 2900 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark.479-883-8336 Nov. 17 Coping with Holidays and Grief A presentation given by a credentialed counselor identifies ways for those who are in grieving to manage the holiday or supporting loved ones who are grieving. Conducted by Lisa Laney, MS, LPC, LMFT, RPT, Fort Smith. Free. 2 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-459-7193
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Nov. 18 “Clean Out The Closet” Adult Craft Time Remaining supplies from previous classes available. Make something while supplies last – first come, first served. Free. 5-7 p.m. Sebastian County Library, 18 North Adair Street, Greenwood, Ark. 479-996-2856 Nov. 18 Sensational Thanksgiving Sides: Cooking Class Elevate classic side dishes and add a few new ones, all completely plant-based. Instruction and recipes with hands-on preparation of delicious dishes, which everyone will taste. Register by phone. Free. 6:308:30 p.m. Fort Smith Seventh Day Adventist Gymnasium, 2000 Louisville Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-926-8039 Nov. 18 Book Talk: The Story of Arthur Trulove By Elizabeth Berg. A moving novel of compassion, of small acts that turn friends into family and achieving happiness at any age. Free. 7-8 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 Nov. 19 Financing Your Business During Global Entrepreneurship Week, the Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center presents sources of capital for business such as loans, grants and alternative financing. A lender discusses achieving credit readiness Register by Nov. 18, by phone or online. Free, sponsored by Bancorp South. 10 a.m.-noon. Fort Smith Chamber of Commerce, 612 Garrison Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-356-2067 asbtdc.org/russellville-events
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Nov. 19 Recipe Club Take a dish of homemade food and its recipe. Taste each other’s dishes and exchanges recipes. Free. 4 p.m. Mountainburg Public Library, 225 U.S. 71 North, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-1600 Nov. 19 Scrapbook Class Make a two-page Thanksgiving layout. All levels of scrapbookers invited. Supplies provided. Free. 1:30 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 Nov. 20 BINGO for Adults Take a lucky bingo dauber or lucky troll for this fun hour of bingo! Prizes and refreshments provided. Free. 6-8 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229
Providing a gift to every area nursing home resident takes the donations of many hearts of gold DEC
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Project Compassion is conducting its annual clothing drive for new, unwrapped soft clothing items to distribute to area nursing home residents at Christmas. A celebration with refreshments and fellowship will kick off the drive from 11 a.m.1:30 p.m. at St. Luke Lutheran Church of Fort Smith.
Collection begins at the opening celebration and will continue through Dec. 18. Drop off locations are the Project Compassion office at The Center at Trinity Jr. High, all Simmons Bank branches and the Hampton Inn-Van Buren.
Entertainment Fort Smith
November 2019
Nov. 21 Boston Mountain Writers League Meet other writers for a workshop. Most writers in this group focus on gentle fiction, local history, memoir and religious stories. Free. 10 a.m. Mountainburg Public Library, 225 U.S. 71 North, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-1600
Nov. 21 Welcome Neighbor Book Club Any woman is welcome to discuss a biography of their choice this month. Share five things about your selection. Free. 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark.972840-3004 welcomeneighborftsmith.weebly.com Nov. 21 Adult Crafty Corner Rediscover your creativity by making an easy craft. Christmas ornaments with alcohol paint. Supplies provided. Free. 2-3 p.m. Miller Branch Library, 8701 South 28th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 Volunteer “elf” from partner St. John’s Episcopal’s “Cards for Others” program delivers Christmas cards for Hearts of Gold packages.
The Hearts of Gold mission is to give a thoughtful gift to every single resident of all area nursing homes, to bring comfort and joy to everyone. 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. St. Luke Lutheran Church, 5401 Free Ferry Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-2273 projectcompassioninc.com 56
Nov. 20 Bingo for Books Bingo for Books is designed for families, so big readers or little ones are welcome. Free. 2 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140
Nov. 21 Handmade Card Class Make Christmas cards. All skill levels welcome. Stepby-step instruction. Supplies provided. Register by phone. Free. 1:30-2:30 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045
Items needed are size medium to 5X nightgowns, pajama sets, lounge pants, sweatshirts and sweatpants, colorful plain T-shirts and closed-toe and heel houseshoes. Monetary donations can be made to Project Compassion “Hearts of Gold” and shopping will be done for you, then distributed to residents. A donation of $25 will purchase a gift for a resident that will include some of the items listed, as well as a card and other small personal items.
Nov. 20 Grown-Up Story Time Enjoy refreshments and an activity, only for grownups! Free. 11 a.m. Ralph D. Graf Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226
Nov. 21 Open Mic Night at Dewey’s Café Participate in a fun, casual open mic night. Musicians, poets and other talented folks perform. Sign-up at the door. Showcase a talent, or just listen. Acoustic music only please. Free. 7-9 p.m. Dewey's Cafe, Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark.479-783-0229
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Nov. 21 Knitting Club Anyone who knits or wants to learn is welcome to a club with a family friendly atmosphere. Free. 3:30 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 Nov. 21 Crafterworks: Fabric Christmas Décor Create a Christmas decor project with fabric and a styrofoam square. Finished project looks like a quilted square block. Supplies provided. Register by phone. Free. 5:30 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 Nov. 21 Book Club “Bordertown Gypsy” by local author R.M. Snider. Free. 1:30 p.m. Cedarville Public Library, 737 Pirates Way, Cedarville, Ark. 479-410-1853
Nov. 30 Stencil Printing & Multi-Media Workshop with J.L. Medeiros In an intensive 6-hour workshop, learn to create professional stencils and layered mono prints that focus on geometric forms. Incorporation of photography and text will be covered. J.L. Medeiros guides students through this simple yet notoriously tricky process. Take a photo of local architecture or select from samples to incorporate into the print. Medeiros is a printmaking and sculpture artist, teacher, gallery assistant and gallery director. Her B.A. in Studio Art is from UAFS. She recently won first place in CAE's Adult Art Competition. $100 fee includes all art materials. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Class breaks at noon for lunch (not provided). Center for Art and Education, 104 North 13th Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-7767
Dec. 2-8 Friends of the Library Vintage and Rare Book Sale Just in time for the holidays, choose from a broad assortment of books in a special sale including rare, vintage and valuable titles. Topics include art, religion, history and more with publication dates from the 1800s to the present. Shoppers who can’t come during these hours can contact the Reference Desk to make an appointment to browse at other times. A list of books for sale will be available at the sale and on the library’s website by Nov. 30. Proceeds benefit the Friends of the Library. Noon-8:30 p.m. Dec. 2; Noon5 p.m. Dec. 3-6; 10:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Dec. 7 and 1-5 p.m. Dec. 8. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org
Nov. 21 Mountain Dulcimer Club Learn new skills with a group of players. Free. 2 p.m. Mountainburg Public Library, 225 U.S. 71 North, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-1600 Nov. 23 Pilot Club Beans, Soup & Cornbread Luncheon Pilot Club of Fort Smith holds its annual luncheon. Baked goods and giant pecan halves for sale. $5 adults; $3 children. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Cumberland Presbyterian Church, 605 North 47th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-883-5633 Nov. 25 Alzheimer’s Support Class The Arkansas Alzheimer’s Association presents an informational class on dementia and Alzheimer’s. Free. 11 a.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 Nov. 29 True Crime Read and discuss books of the true crime genre. Free. 6 p.m. Ralph D. Graf Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226 Nov. 30-Dec. 31 The Perfect Gift: Library Books for Christmas! Honor someone special by donating books to the Fort Smith Public Library. Visit any Fort Smith library to choose a book to add to the library’s collection in honor or memory of someone special. A bookplate will be placed inside the gift. Proceeds go to the library’s materials fund to be used for the purchase of new materials. Children’s books, $10 donation; adult books $25. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 Nov. 30 Christmas on the Creek Always the Saturday after Thanksgiving, Christmas on the Creek is Springdale's holiday tradition. Music, lighting of the region's largest live Christmas tree and family activities. The celebration culminates in the Christmas Parade of the Ozarks. Christmas on the Creek 2019 is presented by Tyson Foods. Free. 1-3 p.m. Shiloh Square 106 West Emma Avenue, Springdale, Ark. 479-799-7844
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS
One of the homes opening its doors for the tour. Dec. 1 Junior League of Fort Smith Holiday Home Tour Self-guided tour of beautifully decorated private homes plus Clayton House and Junior League building, Marble Hall. Proceeds benefit local children aging through foster care. Tickets, $25 at JLFS from 9 a.m.2 p.m.,Tuesday-Friday; by phone, online or on tour day at homes’ doors. 1-5 p.m. VIP Toast & Tour Brunch, $50, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at Bonneville House, 318 North 7th Street includes door prizes, food and cocktails. Junior League of Fort Smith, 311 Garrison Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-3930 jlfsevents.org Dec. 6 Drennen House Victorian Christmas Open House A Victorian Christmas with traditional holiday refreshments, live Christmas music, beautiful greenery and celebration in the historical period style of the pioneers Drennen-Scott families. Free. 5:30 p.m. Drennen Scott House 324 North Third Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-262-2750
Dec. 6 Gaslight Gala The Fort Smith Heritage Foundation, which preserves Clayton House, will hold its 7th annual Gaslight Gala with a buffet of delicious fare from 21 West End, live music, carriage rides, live & silent auctions and holiday cheer. $60; $500 table of 6. 6:30-10 p.m. Clayton House, 514 North 6th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-3000 claytonhouse.org Dec. 8 17th Annual Fort Smith Public Library Holiday Open House Celebrate the holiday season when the entire Fort Smith Public Library staff opens the doors of the Main Library for a festive afternoon of music, crafts, games, stories, holiday displays and refreshments. Musical entertainment throughout the entire afternoon, along with special activities to delight all ages. Free. Please donate a non-perishable food item for the Holiday Food Drive. Free. 1-5 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 58
Entertainment Fort Smith
November 2019
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CALENDAR CALENDAR OF OF EVENTS EVENTS
Next month, double the news! Calendar contributors, remember that the next issue contains both December and January events. Please report all community events happening Dec. 1-Jan. 31 by Dec. 10. Entertainment Fort Smith magazine publishes events submitted via online entry at our website, efortsmith.com.
An online form asks for dates, information and locations and returns a confirmation email. Events entered there appear online on our popular website calendar and also in the print magazine issue. Events are subject to editorial review. The magazine accepts events that are local, nonprofit or low-cost; educational, entertaining or of service to the public.
Display advertising is always available for commercial events and businesses by calling 479-494-1888.
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“Hometown Hospitality Heroes We Will Always Remember” to be recognized at 2019 GRIT Awards
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Entertainment Fort Smith
November 2019
At the Nov. 7 Fort Smith Convention & Visitors Bureau’s GRIT awards (Giving Recognition In Tourism), four outstanding people who have recently passed away will be remembered. Bill Neumeier Jr. will be noted as a trailblazer in the revitalization of Downtown Fort Smith. He will be recognized for his businesses, Papa’s Pub and Pizzaria and Neumeier’s Rib Room, and his founding role on the Fort Smith Blues Festival and Peacemakers Art & Music Festival. Linda Seubold contributed throughout her long career as an award-winning news reporter and columnist and as co-founder of Entertainment Fort Smith magazine. Projects she staunchly championed include the Chaffee Barbershop Museum and the U.S. Marshals Museum.
Bob Redo, with his wife, Kim, played a leading role in the Cowboy Mounted Shooters and the Lawbreakers & Peacemakers reenactment group, thrilling many people with entertaining, Westernstyle thrills and shooting competitions. Brenda Payne gave years of genuine hospitality in her career at the Holiday Inn City Center and took a major role in the opening and development of Parrot Island Water Park. Tickets are available to the Nov. 7 banquet that annually honors those who encourage and support Fort Smith Tourism. Call Miss Laura’s Visitor Center, 479-783-8888. 5:30 p.m. Fort Smith Convention Center, Rogers Avenue and South 9th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. fortsmith.org
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DINING
November 2019
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OUR SECRET INGREDIENT ? OUR PEOPLE . WE ARE COCA-COLA BOTTLING OF FORT SMITH - 1 OF 68 IN DEPEN DENT BOT TLER S K EEPIN G TH E CO C A- COL A COM PAN Y LO C AL A C R O S S N E A R LY E V E R Y C O R N E R O F T H E C O U N T R Y. W E ’ R E P R O U D TO B E PAR T OF TH E COM M U NITIE S WE S ERVE .
#COCACOLARENEW
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From the Superintendent:
2023 Goals Ambitious
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t has been a very exciting year for Fort Smith Public Schools. We continue to work toward achieving the ambitious goals of our Vision 2023 Strategic Plan. Following its development in late 2017, a citizens committee prioritized a list of capital improvements required to implement many of its key components. The proposal was refined by the FSPS Board of Education and placed on the ballot for the May 22, 2018, election. Because of the efforts of hundreds of students, parents, educators, business leaders, and members of our community, Fort Smith and Barling voters approved the most substantial increase in local resources for our schools in more than 30 years. We continue to see a return on this historic investment in the Vision 2023 Capital Improvement Plan. As school was beginning in August, technology and campus staff members issued Chromebooks to all students in grades 10 through 12, extending our 1:1 student device program to include grades 3 through 12. Equipping students with these powerful tools provides opportunities to extend learning beyond the four walls of our schools and traditional scheduling limitations. The first round of construction projects also was completed during a very busy summer. Four elementary schools were upgraded with new entrances specifically designed to provide enhanced security. By 2021, these features will be standard at each of our elementary schools. We saw an even more extensive makeover unfold at Morrison Elementary. Remodeling at this school, which was constructed in the 1970s with open-concept classrooms, included the separation of instructional spaces with walls. These upgrades have helped minimize distractions, facilitate the teaching and learning process, and enhance security. Please use this link to access a video about how this project
Dr. Doug Brubaker, Fort Smith Public Schools Superintendent, announced Fort Smith will receive $1.4 million in federal grant funding from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA). The investment will support the development of the Fort Smith Public Schools career technology center, a state-of-the-art facility that will feature specialized lab spaces and classrooms for courses in advanced manufacturing, health care, and information technology.
has positively affected the entire Morrison community: youtube.com/watch?v=i7nHv4sW6ug. Three other schools originally designed with similar floor plans also are scheduled to receive these upgrades over the next two years. The generous donation by the William Hutcheson Jr. Trust of a site for the Career and Technology Center (CTC) has also been very exciting. This 182,000-square-foot facility, located at the corner of Zero Street and Painter Lane, is actually three times the size of the building initially envisioned. In October, we were thrilled to announce that the district was awarded a $1.4 million U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration grant for this project. These resources have supercharged our efforts to bring state-of-the-art instruction in the areas of health care, information technology, and advanced manufacturing within the science, technology, engineering, art, and math
(STEAM) disciplines to students across our region. A branding committee that involves another set of committed stakeholders is developing an identity for this new and exciting facility. Construction will begin soon on the storm shelters, secure entrances, ninth-grade centers, and renovations at Northside and Southside High Schools. Please continue to watch our website for updates as these projects unfold. We are grateful for your continued support. We will continue to invest these funds in ways that will pay dividends to future generations of Fort Smith and Barling students. Best regards,
Doug Brubaker, Ph.D., Superintendent
Fort Smith Public Schools, a premier district where innovation creates excellence, is dedicated to providing an equitable, challenging educational experience by engaging families and community partners as we prepare students to embrace their roles in our culturally diverse community and rapidly changing world. 2019 FSPS REPORT TO THE PUBLIC l 3
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WELLNESS Develop and train empathetic and nurturing employees to be sensitive to and supportive of the needs of all children and families.
School Nurse Reagan Elmore and her colleagues provide important screening services that help parents monitor student health and wellness.
Creating a Culture of Kindness and Respect Wellness When it comes to well being and mental health, one Vision 2023 objective was to provide the support needed to promote physical, mental and emotional health. Here are some of the ways that the District has focused its attention on the needs of each student and creating a culture of kindness and respect. Awareness Sixty-six teachers and counselors participated in Building Trauma-Informed & Culturally Responsive Connections training in 2018-2019. This training is designed to assist schools as they address the educational needs of students who have suffered trauma. This professional development builds awareness and helps educators to better define trauma and better understand the impact that trauma has upon individual students. It outlines typical traumarelated responses, which can include blowing up when corrected, defiance, fighting, or resisting change, and provides strategies and approaches for improving educational outcomes and begin developing a more supportive academic environment. One participant said this, “... I can see the effects of trauma in schools. I feel that it is the root cause of behavior problems in our schools today and understanding trauma is the first step to really affect change ... . I can’t wait to take this information back to my classroom! This has been the best PD I’ve ever participated in.” 4 l 2019 FSPS REPORT TO THE PUBLIC
Safe Schools Helpline Following the release of the Arkansas School Safety Commission Report to the governor, FSPS selected the Safe Schools Helpline to provide an additional way to share information about potential dangers or threats. Highlights of this tip line include multiple ways to report, 24/7 monitoring, licensed mental health counseling is available to callers, promotional materials are provided to every student, and the ability to retrieve measurable data and statistical reports which can be used to identify areas for additional student instruction and staff development. The Safe Schools helpline can be used to report bullying, threats of violence, suicide, and any other activity that might harm students or staff. Dr. Adolph Brown Respect and tolerance in an age of intolerance focused Dr. Adolph Brown’s high-energy presentations with district secondary students, parents and educators during three visits to FSPS in 2018 and 2019. He and his team presented to all secondary schools and spoke with families at District-sponsored parent nights in February in addition to the presentations that he made to the FSPS staff during Back-to-School professional development in 2018 and in 2019. UAMS West Telemedicine Pilot UAMS West is providing well-child appointments for approximately 480 Northside and Southside students who are already UAMS patients. The services are delivered using high-quality and current telemedicine technology one day a week, alternating between Northside and Southside each week. UAMS sends a nurse and a medical assistant to the high schools. These medical personnel facilitate the annual check-up with a UAMS doctor. Appointments are prescheduled by UAMS, and when students have completed the annual individual wellness checks, UAMS doctors can offer some expedited services at the clinic. As an example, once a wellness check is complete, a student does not have to make a specific appointment to receive immunizations. They may “stop by” the clinic to see a nurse who is tasked with immunizations. Completed wellness checks also give UAMS doctors necessary documentation to provide referrals to other health and behavioral health providers without having to schedule additional appointments. There is no cost to the Fort Smith Public School District.
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Comprehensive Early Intervention Results Positive
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he development of strong decoding and comprehension skills by the end of third grade is vitally important; it is associated with academic success throughout the remainder of a student’s school experience. As a result, Fort Smith Public Schools educators carefully monitor the development of those skills by administering the Istation Indicators of Progress (ISIP), a computeradaptive formative assessment, multiple times throughout the school year. ISIP reading assessment data reflected an achievement gap affecting economically disadvantaged and English Learner (EL) students in reading. To address this issue, FSPS implemented a comprehensive early intervention program utilizing the LindamoodBell Seeing Stars Program for Reading Fluency and Spelling and the Visualizing and Verbalizing Program for Cognitive Development, Comprehension, and Thinking. These strategies are not only research-based but also research-validated, meaning that scientific research strategies have been used to verify their efficacy. As early as August 2016, dyslexia interventionists and special education resource teachers learned how to utilize these strategies with their students. Due to initially promising outcomes in these specialized programs, the pilot was expanded in January 2017 to include K-2 students at 11 elementary schools. Ten additional support staff and 53 classroom teachers were trained with the expectation that students would participate in 15 minutes per day of the Seeing Stars/Visualizing and Verbalizing activities. In May 2017, elementary campus leaders resolved to implement the Seeing Stars and Visualizing and Verbalizing programs districtwide. Approximately 120 classroom teachers and interventionists were then trained to teach using these strategies. Technology was leveraged to provide biweekly team coaching sessions and job-embedded, just-in-time staff development. Robots equipped with microphones and video cameras enabled Lindamood-Bell experts to virtually “move” between classrooms, observe instruction in real-time, and interact with teachers and students from hundreds of miles away. The impact of this innovative approach to closing achievement gaps is reflected in our Istation ISIP overall reading results for 2019; they continue to trend in a positive direction.
EQUITY Develop and implement a system-wide plan to provide all students with the resources they need to optimize their learning.
K-2 Overall Reading - Istation 1862 1699
1378
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997 805 691
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IStation testing is administered to all K-2 students in September, January and April of each year to measure progress in foundational reading skills. The graph contrasts the number of students scoring in Tier 3 ("At Risk") and the number of students scoring in Tier 1 ("Grade Level") in Overall Reading. Since beginning the Lindamood-Bell program, there has been a steady increase in the number of students scoring at Tier 1 and a decrease in the number of students scoring at Tier 3. Tier 1 represents the number of students who are performing at grade-level. Students scoring in Tier 3 are those who need extensive additional support to achieve grade-level goals. Among the All Students group, students requiring Tier 3 intervention since the K-2 intervention program was implemented in 2017 has declined from 999 to 621, a decrease of 378 students or 38 percent. The number of students in grades K-2 who are now reading on grade level (Tier I) has grown from 1,283 to 1,862, an increase of 579 students or 45 percent. Among economically disadvantaged students, the number of students at grade level (Tier I) has grown from 877 to 1,256, an increase of 379 or 43 percent. Students in the economically disadvantaged group that continue to require Tier 3 intervention has declined from 836 to 504, a decrease of 332 students or 40 percent. Students in the English Learner group appear to have experienced the most dramatic improvement in reading. The number of students at grade level (Tier I) has grown from 280 to 484, an increase of 204 students or 73 percent. The number of students in the economically disadvantaged group that continue to require Tier 3 intervention has declined from 395 to 283, a decrease of 112 students or 28 percent. These gains significantly exceed the district goal of 20 percent growth by 2019. Continued
gains of this magnitude will contribute to the closing of achievement gaps across all groups. Based on the positive results of this intervention program in grades K-2, FSPS is now piloting innovative strategies to expand access to these instructional strategies to students who were in grades K-2 prior to its implementation. The success of these pilots, as reflected in the ACT Aspire reading assessment results of older participants who had also been struggling with decoding and reading comprehension, have also been very positive. This supports findings that the growth in reading skills that our K-2 students have achieved over the past several years can be attributed to this innovative and research-validated intervention program. In June 2018, 29 students in grades three, five, six, and seven participated in a summer reading camp based on scoring below the 25th percentile and “In Need of Improvement” on the 2017 ACT Aspire Assessment. Following this intensive summer intervention, 83 percent of the students showed growth by increasing their percentile ranking on the ACT Aspire Reading Assessment in 2019. The camp was expanded in June 2019 from one site to six and included 112 students. Program staff continue to analyze results to determine the impact on skill development among this year’s participants. 2019 FSPS REPORT TO THE PUBLIC l 5
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PLC Culture Guiding School Improvement
Professional Learning Communities n 2018-2019 the district and its schools celebrated and are leveraging the remarkable results of the Arkansas Department of Education’s (ADE) Professional Learning Communities (PLC) at Work Pilot partnership with Solution Tree. FSPS interest in PLC concepts is well documented over the past several years. This model provides for an education culture change that can improve student achievement over time. It is however expensive to implement PLC processes district-wide. So, when Ballman and Spradling Elementary Schools were selected to participate in the State’s pilot program in 2017-2018, FSPS used the opportunity to take a much more detailed look at how positive those outcomes can be. 2018 state assessment results at Ballman and Spradling demonstrated growth in several areas. This success accelerated ongoing dialogue as FSPS considered the option to support additional learning communities. Federal grant funds through Title IV were identified to expand this initiative. The initial goal was to train seven more leadership teams to build a campus culture to support and sustain the PLC model of school improvement. A competitive Request for Proposal (RFP) was issued and Solution Tree was selected to design an affordable collection of the essential elements necessary to improve teaching and learning at multiple campuses. Interest was so high in this Solution Tree PLC Coaching Academy, the district identified appropriate resources to support 10 campuses
6 l 2019 FSPS REPORT TO THE PUBLIC
for the first cohort. Carnall, Fairview, Howard, Morrison, Orr, Pike, Darby, Kimmons, Ramsey and Northside began their work developing PLC processes with their guiding coalitions of educators in early 2019. The work that is being done on FSPS campuses participating in the PLC Coaching Academy continues and it is creating additional benefits for the school communities. In Spring 2019, ADE announced that Darby Junior High School was selected to participate in the third cohort in the State’s PLCs at Work Pilot Project. Darby’s guiding coalition will join nine other Arkansas schools in the third cohort and 29 schools in the ongoing statewide project. Since the FSPS pilot began in January 2019, participating campuses have demonstrated tremendous growth as they implement strategies they have learned in professional development in the Spring semester. A total of 72 staff members participated in the training and amassed more than 3,200 hours of professional development. The guiding coalitions representing each of the 10 campuses now have the tools to make a difference in teaching and learning during the 2019-20 school year. To ensure implementation with fidelity this first cohort will participate in periodic embedded professional development. The district is also eager to provide these same opportunities to the remaining 14 campuses this year. A total of 90 participants have been selected to represent the remaining campuses as FSPS moves toward total implementation of this initiative.
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INSTRUCTION Design, develop and implement programs to promote rigor, relevance, collaboration, critical-thinking skills and learning environments designed to meet each student’s unique needs and aspirations.
Enrichment, Concurrent Credit and AP Support Viable Plan, Relevant Skill Set Advanced Placement Advanced Placement (AP) courses are designed to provide rigorous college-level work within the high school setting for students who want the best preparation for college course work. In order to receive weighted credit for an AP class, a student must complete the entire course taught by a College Board trained teacher. In 2018-2019, students earned 918 qualifying Advanced Placement Exam scores. Concurrent Credit High school students continue to benefit from the district’s partnership with UAFS to provide concurrent credit opportunities. The concurrent credit courses are taught by a UAFS professor onsite at both Northside and Southside high schools. Concurrent credit courses also are available online through UAFS. In 2018-2019, students earned 6,094 hours of college credit.
Enrichment Supports All Kinds of Learners Fort Smith Public Schools launched the District’s first Superintendent’s Scholar Program and PSAT Academy as one of a series of new FSPS enrichment programs. Seventy-five Northside and Southside High School 10th graders, who demonstrated high potential for success on the SAT, were invited to participate in a four-day summer workshop and six weekly sessions this Fall. All classes reinforced content knowledge in math and language. Dr. Ginni McDonald, FSPS Director of Secondary Education, and her CTE Curriculum Team visited other school districts and career and technology centers in the region. During these visits the team paid particular attention to how other districts foster a culture in which student attention can be focused toward a “viable plan and relevant skill set.” She noticed that summer enrichment programs play an important part in some of those districts. She also noted that summer enrichment programs were a missing piece in Fort Smith Public Schools. She said, “For the PSAT Academy, we want to provide an enrichment experience for these talented students that supports their current academic success and puts them in the best position to attain National Merit recognition.” In addition to the PSAT Academy, the secondary instruction team partnered with area business and industry to host four other career-focused district-wide camps in June 2019, including ACT College Ready, STEM Sisters, Find a Career for Life, and Nuts, Bolts & Thingamajigs. 2019 FSPS REPORT TO THE PUBLIC l 7
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TECHNOLOGY Provide appropriate technology that is consistently available, effectively supported, and equitably distributed for group and individual instruction. 8 l 2019 FSPS REPORT TO THE PUBLIC
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Technology Tools Critical for Instruction ort Smith Public Schools deployed 3,800 Chromebooks to students in Grades 10-12 as school began in August. This, as well as the distribution to Grades 7-9 in 2018-2019, completes the first cycle of the district’s 1:1 project designed to ensure all district students have access to these important learning tools. Students in Grades 3 through 12 have a Chromebook they may take home and students in Kindergarten through Grade 2 may use similar technology during the school day. Resources secured through the Vision 2023 Capital Improvement Program gives the district a funding stream that ensures these learning devices can be maintained and replaced in a rotation cycle. Access to technology tools is important, but understanding the power of the technology is critical. In 2018-2019, the district hosted dozens of opportunities for students and their parents to explore the possibilities and opportunities that technology can provide. Here are several examples: Community Coding Clubs During Computer Science Education Week last year, Gov. Asa Hutchinson announced increased and continuing support of the ADE’s Computer Science Initiatives across Arkansas. Eden Buergler, Technology Integration Specialist, and Dr. Samantha Hall, Supervisor of Professional Development, wrote and were awarded $24,800 as one of 15 Innovation in Computer Science grants to fund teacher training and tech tools for Community Coding Clubs in each of the district’s elementary and junior high schools. Buergler and her team developed interactive meetings that featured stories and activities about why coding matters in a variety of businesses, institutions and agencies throughout the area. Club meetings continued in Fort Smith Public libraries throughout the summer, too, and engaged hundreds of students and their parents. With the structure and mission of these groups established, FSPS will continue to fund these important learning opportunities. Take a look at this fun and informative video narrated by district students: youtube.com/watch?v=nURH-hm10mE Elementary Robotics Club One long-range goal of the district is to provide more opportunities for students to participate in STEM-related activities in all 19 elementary schools. Existing robotics clubs at Ballman, Bonneville, Cook, Euper Lane and Woods are important models that will help the district reach this goal. Last spring, the district provided resources that included materials, supplies and a stipend for each Robotics Club sponsor. Students worked with First Lego League challenges designed for Grades 4 through 8. These teams will compete at area competitions this fall.
Photo by Northside Senior Alana Walls
Summer Tech Fest More than 240 parents, students and their teachers participated in fun STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) entertainment during the area’s first Summer Tech Fest hosted by the Fort Smith Council of PTAs and Fort Smith Public Schools in July. All also had the opportunity to visit learning stations, including Chromebooks Basics, Internet Safety 101, Robotics and Coding prior to a screening of the internationally popular documentary on technology and parenting, “Screenagers.” President of the Fort Smith Council of PTAs Lee Andra White said the Summer Tech Fest was a wonderful way to incorporate learning and digital safety information in a community setting. “We wanted to bring families, educators and PTA together for a fun-filled, yet informative event showcasing what our students have access to and are learning in the FSPS system,” she said. “We also wanted to inform and educate the adults in attendance of the problems with screen/device addiction in our country and how to address these issues at home.” 2019 FSPS REPORT TO THE PUBLIC l 9
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Teachers Key to Student Achievement Teachers and the people who support teachers are the heart of education and the key to student achievement. Provisions for their continuing professional development, and the recruitment and retention of a highly qualified and diverse team of educators was a priority for the citizens and educators who developed the FSPS strategic plan.
Innovative Partnership Designed to Strengthen Teacher Training Program Encouraging local young people to pursue careers in education and providing the best and most relevant training for these students is another important strategy for hiring highly qualified staff. One way FSPS is approaching this strategy is with an innovative pilot project with University of Arkansas – Fort Smith. In March, the Arkansas Board of Education approved a limitedscope waiver that allows the district to employ two apprentice teachers as they near the end of their program of study. This also allows UAFS to extend the teacher candidate internships for these students to a full year. Two apprentice teachers were selected by UAFS and FSPS and are teaching at Spradling Elementary School. They have their own classrooms and are guided by FSPS educator and certified FSPS supervisor Courtney Burdick. This pilot project may drastically change the way teacher training is accomplished. It also may ease the financial burden on students pursuing education degrees as it also ensures a stronger support system and more rigorous set of teaching experiences prior to formal licensing.
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In addition to providing for the largest raise to the base salary in five years, FSPS continues to look for ways to improve and refine an already robust benefits package. The district has recently announced a new, voluntary 403(b) savings plan, as well as access to a voluntary telemedicine program.
Minority Recruitment Team Guides District Initiatives The recruitment and retention of highly qualified minority candidates is also a high priority for one of the state’s most diverse student populations. An active Minority Recruitment Committee gathers input and works to develop a plan to attract minority applicants to the teaching profession. They also have identified a need to market Fort Smith as a destination city for teachers. The Minority Recruitment Committee met six times during the 2018-19 school year. The committee developed a strategy that included: • Attending college career days • Creating recruitment care packages • Advancing the Orientation to Teaching intern program • Hosting a recruitment event for potential applicants This recruitment event held in April entitled “All In: Emphasizing Diversity in Fort Smith” focused on promoting Fort Smith and the Fort Smith Public Schools. The event highlighted the city by hosting six potential applicants and providing a special opportunity to visit the Chamber of Commerce, UAFS and the Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine. The event showcased the district with visits to Spradling, Kimmons and Northside, and gave each candidate the chance to sit for a preliminary interview. The participants also met city leaders including Mayor George McGill, Pastor Paul Davis, Pastor Jackie Flake, Dr. Ron Darbeau, Alice Alt, Dr. Doug Brubaker and Isaac Davis. One of the six applicants will graduate from college in May. Three of the remaining five applicants have been hired by the district.
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STAFFING
Recruit and retain highly qualified faculty, staff, and administration.
University of Arkansas-Fort Smith Senior Education students Merary Ramirez (pictured) and Kyle Bates are participating in a pilot partnership project between UAFS and Fort Smith Public Schools. With permission from the Arkansas Board of Education, UAFS has extended their internships to a full year. FSPS has hired these provisional educators to teach under the guidance of Spradling Elementary School Teacher Courtney Burdick, who is a highly qualified and experienced educator.
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CAREER PLANNING Develop and implement education and career pathways so that each student graduates with a viable plan and relevant skill set for his or her future.
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Career Planning: Student Driven, Community Based artnerships, early access to career information, and real world experiences highlight the dynamic development of FSPS Career Education. Career Development Facilitator Stephanie Freeman says, “We are experiencing a synergy in Fort Smith that is unprecedented. The way we deliver career education programming has changed dramatically over the past couple of years. We are talking about and planning for what is best for students and the community. The partnerships that have developed from the strategic plan and the millage election are the reason that we can make such great progress in a short time.” Partnerships Innovative Model for Region The local strategy to create expanded career and technology opportunities has been innovative and successful. The Vision 2023 Capital Improvement Program proposal included funding for a 50,000square-foot site to be purchased and remodeled. Citing the new vision for STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) education developed as part of Vision 2023, the Estate of William L. Hutcheson Jr. gifted a building almost four times that size (181,000 square feet on almost 17 acres) to the district. Thanks to a strong partnership with the Western Arkansas Planning and Development District, the Fort Smith Regional Chamber of Commerce, our congressional delegation, and UAFS, the district was awarded a federal grant for $1.4 million for the new career and technology center. A community-based and student-centered process is under way to develop the specific programs. We believe access to a center like this will initially double the number of students who receive the high-tech, rigorous, and relevant educational experiences that will allow students to enter the workforce directly or pursue higher education in the areas of advanced manufacturing, health care, and information technology. It is scheduled to open in Fall 2021.
Internship Numbers on the Rise Work-based learning continues to anchor the FSPS career education curriculum. Programs designed to provide real-world experience and real-world success are as diverse as the students and the success plans they design with their parents and teachers. Freeman says that these internships are tied to curriculum goals students have identified. “If a student is taking accounting classes, the goal is to place them in an accounting environment,” she said. Students are excited about the opportunity to learn in this way and are driving growth in student internship numbers.
Tools Guide Course Selection Students in Grades 7-12 can access career information in several ways. One robust online resource is a college and career planning tool called Naviance. FSPS career facilitators and counselors teach students and their parents how to build a personal success plan for graduation. Naviance curates this four-year individual course guide, and it allows students and parents to research career and college options with information that includes job market data, skills assessments, interest inventories, and higher education and credentialing opportunities. YouScience is another online resource that is changing the way students explore career interests. The results of this “brain game” identify individual strengths and tie the outcomes to particular career clusters. Anecdotal evidence suggests that as students tour local business and industry, they are using their YouScience information to better understand their options. Freeman said that industry leaders in Fort Smith have commented on the mature and relevant questions that FSPS students are asking. Earlier access to this information also guides the relevance and success of experiences like the FSPS iCan Career Expo. Now in its fifth year, organizers have decided that iCan is just what all seventh-graders need to explore careers in a fun and interactive environment. It is not a traditional career fair where students often sit and listen. Instead, representatives of local business and industries use the six career clusters identified in the district course catalog to engage students in designing and building activities, contests, and marketing and technology projects. iCan typically hosts 50 to 75 businesses and approximately 150 professionals who work in multiple career pathways. Two new opportunities are also designed to build student interest in careers at a younger age. Be Pro Be Proud is an Arkansas Chamber of Commerce interactive technology project. FSPS uses the Be Pro Be Proud resources in 8th Grade Career Development classes to support what they have learned. EdgeFactor is a unique learning platform that is funded by the Fort Smith Regional Chamber of Commerce. It is designed to connect students to the myriad of opportunities that exist in the Fort Smith area. Edge Factor will allow educators to provide access to local career education information to students in Grade 7-12 and elementary schools as well. 2019 FSPS REPORT TO THE PUBLIC l 13
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LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS Align resources, facilities, and technology strategically and equitably across the district to maximize security and enhance the learning environment.
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WHAT DOES THE MONEY BUY? Total Funds
Members of the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council tour the future career and technology center. With 181,000 square feet, the generous donation by the Estate of William L. Hutcheson provides for career education programming that has room to grow.
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WHAT ARE THE SOURCES OF REVENUE?
Safety Features Enhance Learning Environments
ecure entries for each FSPS campus is an important feature of the Vision 2023 Capital Improvement Program. Chaffin Junior High was completed as the model entry system at the beginning of the 2018-2019 school year. Now, anyone who visits Chaffin must enter and check-in through the office. Because of voter support for the Vision 2023 Capital Improvement Program, the school district can put these safety features in every building. This past summer, secure vestibules were completed at Cavanaugh, Sunnymede, Fairview and Spradling elementary schools. A secure vestibule also was completed at Morrison Elementary as part of the school’s permanent wall project. These additions bring the district total to 12 schools with secure entry points. The current plan is to complete secure vestibules at Ballman, Beard, Euper Lane, Sutton and Trusty by the end of summer. The following summer, secure vestibules will be completed at Bonneville, Howard, Orr, Pike and Tilles. Secure entries also are important components of the designs for Northside, Southside, and Darby and Ramsey. In addition, controlled-access key systems are scheduled for installation at schools as secure vestibules are completed.
Permanent walls in open-concept schools are another important part of the Vision 2023 Capital Improvement Program. In openconcept classrooms, walls stop short of the ceiling, so there is a high noise level, which can be distracting to students. Installing permanent walls decreases the noise-level, enabling students to better focus on their teachers and schoolwork. Permanent walls also provide an added layer of security. Morrison was the first of the FSPS openconcept schools to receive permanent walls. The project, which included modifications to plumbing, electrical and mechanical systems, was finished just before school started in August. Morrison student Keily Monry is excited about the walls. “I think these walls are going to be good because it’s going to be quiet and we get to learn more and focus on the projects we’re doing.” Before the beginning of school, Morrison parent Latoya Armstrong said, “I’m really confident about the next school year for my children.” Permanent wall projects will be completed at the three remaining open-concept schools – Barling, Cook and Woods – during summer breaks in 2020 and 2021. See reaction to the new walls at Morrison: youtube.com/watch?v=i7nHv4sW6ug
YOUR DOLLAR IN THE FORT SMITH PUBLIC SCHOOLS Summary of Expenditures by Function minus Capital Projects Funds for 2018-19 FUNCTION Classroom Instruction Instruction/Support Services Administration Utilities, Maint. & Central Support Transportation School Meal Services Debt Services Capital Outlay TOTAL
CENTS 55 15 6 11 2 5 5 1 $1.00
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Be Pro Be Proud is sponsored by the Arkansas Chamber of Commerce to build interest in career fields that are important to the state and regional economy. All FSPS 8th-graders have an opportunity to explore data provided in this state-of-the-art, technology-rich big rig.
FSPS Activities
School Board Fact
Athletics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,371 Band . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,539 Cheer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112 Drill Team . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124 Choir . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,006 Orchestra . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 835 JROTC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 341 Drama . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135 Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6,463
Fort Smith Public School Board members documented 83 hours in Arkansas School Board training in 2018-2019. 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 extracurricular 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.
Administration
2019-20 School Board
Doug Brubaker, Ph.D. Susan McFerran, President Bill Hanesworth, Vice President Superintendent Yvonne Keaton-Martin, Secretary
Jeannie Cole Wade Gilkey Greg Magness Talicia Richardson
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 Sherri Penix, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources and Campus Support. • Le invitamos a que hable con la Sherri Penix si usted tiene alguna pregunta sobre las capacitaciones profesionales de los maestros o asistentes de maestros de sus hijos. www.FortSmithSchools.org 16 l 2019 FSPS REPORT TO THE PUBLIC