Issuu

EDITOR’S NOTES

Keeping up with changing events is a moving target right now – please also use digital eFortSmith Bless our hearts - all of us, the whole community and nation. We all yearn to carry enjoyable celebration, especially as the holidays arrive.

Editorial Staff LYNN WASSON Editor & Publisher lynnwasson@efortsmith.com DONNA PAYNE Senior Editor donnapayne@efortsmith.com Contributing Photographers GLENN GILLEY McFARLAND PHOTOGRAPHY Interactive Story Editor JOE WASSON joe@efortsmith.com

Advertising Sales LINDA GILHAM lgilham@efortsmith.com 479-629-0235 CHARLES G. HUBBARD charleshubbard@efortsmith.com 479-831-3995 Bookkeeping JULIE BERCH HAMILTON accounts@efortsmith.com © 2020 eFortSmith.com Media, Inc.

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

Entertainment Fort Smith

November/December 2020

Many community Thanksgiving and Christmas activities are scheduled, as you see in this calendar of events, but we must allow for the possibility that some plans may be changed or adjusted as necessary. Please verify each event before actually attending. All organizations that have worked hard to present these beloved, traditional holiday performances and activities have websites, social media links or phone numbers listed here. Entertainment Fort Smith also will update events in our December digital issue. We expect more activities will be announced and some that will have additional information. Please add your events at efortsmith.com. Please avail yourselves of each event’s latest information before setting out to attend. Entertainment Fort Smith, through our website efortsmith.com, will report cancellations or

changes or even as-yet-unpublished current events as we learn of them. We hope you’ve noticed at efortsmith.com, there’s a digital replica of the current issue, where you can virtually turn the pages of the magazine and magnify it to easily read articles and see ads. It’s very suitable for smartphones, desktop and tablets. We also have archived issues in case you need to refer back to something recent or an issue you missed in print. “Follow” our Facebook page, as well, where we also publish the latest news we receive about community events. You ought to be following us anyway! We enjoy the interaction of posting and sharing community news, funny things, local images and, also, hearing from you, our readers. We love Fort Smith and all our surrounding communities and we want to entertain readers in every format used today. We can live well and carry one, even in difficult times, by adapting and helping each other. – Lynn Wasson

Shop locally! It’s not an ad slogan, it’s a rally to support our hometowns This issue is full of locally owned businesses that are inviting you to shop with them this holiday season. Please, do. In the course of helping our advertisers, who have brought this magazine to you, free, for 20 year, we have grown to know lots of them personally. As a small, locally owned business ourselves, we have a solidarity with hometown entrepreneurs and family businesses. They put their hearts and souls into their stores, restaurants and services. They also support so much more than their own businesses – contributing to non-profit organizations, youth programs, cultural events, festivals, sports leagues, local churches and local schools.

They are there for you, because these are their own hometowns. Now, let’s be there for them. Yes, it is convenient to shop online but that’s not going to keep our hometowns thriving. Ask any local merchant for special services you may need such as remote pickup, exchanges, paying online or by phone or shipping your holiday gifts and we are sure they will help you. Enjoy browsing our holiday gift guide. Think how many connections you may have with these local establishments, from longtime institutions to new start-ups. They’re your neighbors, your church friends, relatives of people you know. Please support them this holiday season.

CONTENTS features

Show your Hearts of Gold A gift for every resident of every local nursing home will be warmer than ever this year. Project Compassion invites the community to show their love to residents who have had an isolating experience. By Lynn Wasson

10 8

Fidgeteers and volunteers

Offstage: Fort Smith Little Theatre waits Checking in with the beloved community theatre, whose faithful troupe looks forward to treading the boards once more.

In a quieted time, U.S. Marshals Museum gains a million The pandemic has not put fundraising on hold at the riverfront museum, which reports a success in 2020 and a hopeful forecast.

Fashion Focus: Young entrepreneur opens OhSoBoho Boutique Jordan Geoates, with her brother as her partner and her family behind her all the way, opens a downtown boutique at the age of 17.

November & December 2020

Hometown Holiday A Gallery of Gifts Pages and pages of local goods offered by local merchants. Shop with hometown spirit!

In the center: Each year, this magazine is pleased to help convey the annual Report to the Public of Fort Smith Public Schools. This 16-page report details the state of our public schools.

Holiday treat recipes

departments

WHATâ€™S COOKING Holiday treat recipes, from cookies to candies.

eve n t s

28 6

Tradition Continues

Entertainment Fort Smith

November/December 2020

EVENTS FOR KIDS CALENDAR OF EVENTS

COULD YOU SHOW YOUR

Project Compassion’s annual Christmas campaign asks community donors for simple gifts so every resident of area nursing homes receives a little love and remembrance. This difficult year calls for more love than ever for residents who have had less contact with family and volunteers. Drop off donations at a drive-through kick-off celebration or donate to enable the purchase of the same gifts. The wish list includes: size medium to 5X nightgowns pajama sets, lounge pants, sweatshirts and sweatpants, colorful plain T-shirts, houseshoes with closed toes and heels 8

Entertainment Fort Smith

November/December 2020

his year, even one of the most well-supported holiday giving activities is appealing to the community to continue its generosity toward the residents of nursing homes at Christmas. Those who have never participated are invited to donate for the first time, as well. Project Compassion is holding its loving Hearts of Gold campaign in a different way, with a drive-through donation kick-off day instead of its usual sociable party and celebration. On two days, Dec. 1-2, donors who prefer to shop for the listed gifts and drop them off in person can drive through at St. Luke’s Lutheran Church, 5401 Free Ferry Road, Fort Smith. Hours are 4-7 p.m. Dec. 1 and 11 a.m.2 p.m. Dec. 2.

A Year of Adjustment Foregoing its kick-off celebration is only a slight adjustment for the Hearts of Gold campaign compared to the many ways nursing facilities have had to adopt extremely cautious practices to protect their vulnerable residents from exposure to coronavirus. In mid-March, the state Health Department guidelines required nursing facilities to be closed to visitors for what was initially hoped to be 30 days. As the number of COVID-19 cases increased in-state, it was necessary to continue the lockdown for many months before limited, careful family visits recently began to be allowed. According to Marian Conrad, director of Project Compassion, Inc., a United Way-supported non-profit, the facilities they assist reported lengthy isolation from visitors was taking a toll on residents and families. Besides its annual Christmas gift drive, volunteers of Project Compassion support nursing home residents all year round. Its volunteers soon switched to new strategies to be supportive. The “Fidgeteers” volunteers, named for the sensory-stimulating lap blankets its members sew, set about sewing cloth face masks, as there was an initial shortage of medical masks available for purchase. “Our Fidgeteers made and delivered 3,500 cloth masks for staff and residents,” Conrad said. The sewing volunteers continue to create and give away their therapeutic lap blankets, which have elements of soothing tactile fabric textures and “busy” activity features such as buttons, easy zippers, pouches and even little stuffed dolls or animals tucked into pockets. These embellishments that will keep hands busy can be distracting and soothing, especially for dementia or Alzheimer’s patients who spent their lives working with their hands or who once enjoyed handwork such as knitting, crocheting or sewing, Conrad explained. Cards and Calls In response to the closed-door safety efforts, Project Compassion’s helpers who volunteer to write greeting cards and make personal phone calls responded, Conrad said. Project Compassion provides cards and information to volunteers who would like to write letters or send cards. It is a great classroom activity for students and corporate department projects. Residents love to receive mail! Conrad said volunteers from the Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine, Greek organizations at the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith, local service groups and individuals were a great help this year. The project also has a volunteer program called “Silver Line” through which volunteers make phone calls to residents. “They call and just chat with people,” Conrad explained. Any contact and friendly interest can be uplifting to residents.

Inventing new strategies The administration and staff of area living facilities work harder in every way to prevent transmission of infection and invent new activities and strategies to comfort to their residents, Conrad said. Many homes created safe visiting windows or “visiting boxes” where a resident inside could safely talk with their relatives and visitors on the other side of the glass, she explained. Project Compassion provided dry erase markers for games of Tic Tac Toe and other artwork on the glass. Volunteers who provided musical entertainment were keenly missed, but ways were found to continue, Conrad said. Young violinist Gregory Allen volunteered to give concerts for residents by standing outside patio doors and playing for residents indoors at a safe distance. A Legacy of Caring and Including Project Compassion’s founder, the late Gloria White, created this mission that became a United Way partner and non-profit service organization. White began in 1972 as a one-to-one visitation program, determined that no local nursing resident be without a visitor. Project Compassion volunteers talk with residents, listen to them, encourage them to reminisce and maintain interest in people, activities and events in the nursing home. Some volunteers provide music therapy, pet therapy and help residents with bingo, crafts and other group activities. Conrad and those who knew White understand that she would not have let a pandemic keep her from showing love to residents. Today, Project Compassion serves to support residents in Sebastian, Crawford, Franklin and Logan counties in Arkansas and LeFlore and Sequoyah counties in Oklahoma. The Hearts of Gold campaign seeks to give gifts to every resident of the facilities it serves. While most residents have loving relatives who give them care and attention, for a few residents, a Hearts of Gold Christmas gift will be the only one they receive this year.

All over the area, facilities have made extraordinary effort to keep life enjoyable for residents who were isolated for long months from family visits. At Greenhurst Nursing Center in Charleston and many other area homes, closed areas were contrived so loved ones could see each other and speak over an intercom.

Young violinist Gregory Allen performed at several facilities by standing outdoors. Residents could listen through windows and open doors at a safe distance. Allen, a Fort Smith high school student, enjoys seeing the response to his music.

Convenient Ways to Give Many donors enjoy in-person shopping and drop-off of the gifts they have chosen. But there are several other ways to participate. Donors may order online through smile.amazon.com, where Project Compassion, Inc. Fort Smith can be selected as a beneficiary and will receive a .05 percent portion of the purchase cost (of any purchase the customer makes). Goods purchased for the Hearts of Gold campaign can be shipped to Project Compassion Inc., St. Scholastica Center, 1205 South Albert Pike, Fort Smith, AR 72903, 479-783-2273. Cash donations may be sent to the same address by regular mail. 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.

Details from the lap-sized busy blankets show the textures, fasteners and activities they invite.

Kick-off Drive Through and other drop-off locations Dec. 1-2 St. Luke’s Lutheran Church Parking Lot, 5401 Free Ferry Road, Fort Smith. Drive through and drop off unwrapped gifts from 4-7 p.m. Dec. 1 and 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Dec. 2. There is no indoor party, but Santa will have a goodie bag for every donor. Dec. 1-16 Drop-off Locations Downtown and Central Mall First National Bank lobbies All Simmons Banks locations Hampton Inn, Van Buren Spirit 106.3 Radio

The Fidgeteers accept new fabric and notions. New sewists or fabric cutters are welcome.

November/December 2020

Entertainment Fort Smith

Darkened Little Theatre missed by actors and audiences FSLT looks ahead to when the show will go on When guests of Entertainment Fort Smith and other audiences enjoyed the charming comedy “The Glitter Girls” in February, they could not have known a pandemic would soon cancel most of Fort Smith Little Theatre’s 2020 season. Here’s an update on the esteemed institution’s circumstances and plans. What Fort Smith Little Theatre shows have been cancelled due to the pandemic? In February, “The Glitter Girls” was the first of six full-run productions planned for 2020. In March, we presented an off-season show, “Radium Girls.” About 10 days later, with rehearsals already under way, we announced the cancellation of “A Southern Exposure.” The next two productions were cancelled one at a time. In September, we cancelled the rest of season 2020, which included two full-run productions and a holiday off-season show. How is FSLT sustaining itself? As an all-volunteer organization, we do not have salaries. However, we do have ongoing facility maintenance and business operating expense. We have trimmed expenses as tightly as possible and, thankfully, many of our patrons and business donors have continued donating. 10

Entertainment Fort Smith

November/December 2020

What other impact has this pandemic had on your organization? While missing out on income is, of course, a concern, it is equally upsetting that performers, patrons, stagehands and everyone in between are missing the collective experience of live theatre – the facial expressions of actors, a quiet dramatic scene followed by ripples of laughter, dancing, singing and standing ovations. At the end of this pandemic, the show will go on and we will enjoy it all again. But just not right now.

Couldn’t you be performing now within state guidelines for limited seating and social distancing? The state directives are very restrictive for social distancing of performers on-stage and backstage, plus it’s just not fiscally worth it to pay royalties and have a socially distanced, limited-size audience. But our decision to remain dark is not solely about compliance. We also want to be sure we can provide an enjoyable experience for our volunteers and our patrons.

When will the next season be announced? For 2021, we planned a wonderful line-up of comedy, mystery, drama and musical productions. Unfortunately, uncertainty surrounding the pandemic has clouded those plans and we don’t have a clear timeline on when that season can begin. We didn’t want to announce a season and then risk canceling shows, so we have decided not to publish our next season schedule until we are confident we can safely reopen. When that date occurs, we will excitedly announce upcoming productions, launch auditions, begin rehearsals and provide information about the sale of season passes. Until then, we remain poised and ready, with a flexible plan in place.

Do you plan to offer online performances while FSLT is dark? Some community theatres are trying their hand at online performances but with mixed success. After all, a video camera can offer entertainment, but it can’t replicate the shared experience that is such an important part of enjoying a live performance. At this time, we plan to remain dark until we are confident we can offer the safe, enjoyable live “in-person” theatrical experience our volunteers and patrons enjoy. Consider giving support to the Fort Smith Little Theatre at fslt.org.

Creative uses and successful fundraising gains have moved the US Marshals Museum forward in 2020 How has the museum pivoted as a result of the pandemic? The United States Marshals Museum continues to fund raise during the pandemic with verve and gusto! Earlier this year, a gracious donor, understanding the impact, discourse and experience that the Marshals Museum has and will have once open, gave the Museum a $500,000 matching donation. Because of the generosity of other donors, the match has been met! In the middle of a pandemic, the Marshals Museum was able to make $1,000,000! We have also seen significant interaction on our Facebook, Instagram and Twitter accounts, with so many people working remotely from home during COVID. The team has created Facebook Live events, engaging social posts and creative content to update our followers on the energy and excitement happening at the museum. Our education department has pivoted to aiding teachers by creating online curriculum such as National History Day, our Educator Resource Series, Constitution Week and day camps for students. Director of education Leslie Higgins does this by using platforms like Facebook and YouTube. How is the Marshals Museum preparing to open its doors? We have exceptional leadership on both our Museum and Foundation boards. Because of their guidance, strategies have been crafted that include hiring a national fundraising firm, creating unique ways and opportunities for donors to give, and hosting local and national events. It is exciting for the museum that it is inches away from finishing off the capital campaign and securing monies to push “go” on the experience production!

The Museum has only $12.8 million left to go in its capital campaign, with its sights laser-focused securing $8 million of that amount to start production on the experience. Pave America’s Star, our brick paver program, is still in full swing and custom engraved bricks would make wonderful Christmas gifts. You can find forms to purchase a brick at usmmuseum.org. The museum will also have an end-of-year giving push. What other effects has the pandemic had on the museum? People have been renting the facility for engagements, which has helped with revenue. The museum is stunning, inside and out. Many have rented the space for weddings, meetings, walking tours and panel discussions. The Fort Smith Symphony had their season opener concert at the museum, outside on the campus facing the Arkansas River. On any given day, you will see the campus buzzing with people. This gives us the opportunity to continue having a national footprint as we welcome people to come and stroll the grounds. What are your next events? The Marshals Museum will host our holiday event, An Evening in the Past, Dec. 7. Previously, historical interpreters such as George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Young Thomas Jefferson, Teddy Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln have entertained. This year, Harriet Tubman will visit with us. We are hosting guests in-house with limited seating and offering virtual attendance for the first time. Buy tickets or make virtual reservations by calling the museum, 479-2421789 or finding the link at usmmuseum.org or its Facebook page. November/December 2020

Entertainment Fort Smith

FASHION FOCUS

Boutique launches her career, at 17

hoppers discovering OhSoBoho Boutique in downtown Fort Smith probably will never suspect two facts about the smiling, confident young woman behind the counter. First, that she’s the owner who selected the new boutique’s appealing clothing and accessories. Second, that she’s doing her high school and college class work, while they shop. Seventeen-year-old Jordan Geoates, the proprietor of OhSoBoho in downtown Fort Smith’s Brunwick Place, turned her disrupted senior year into an opportunity to start directly into the career she wants – just not in the usual order. Academic requirement changes made it possible for her to graduate this semester by completing one high school math credit, via distance learning. She’s taking two concurrent college classes,

Top, Jordan Geoates, spiffing up a display while modeling a frayed-hem, nubbly sweater. Above, fall-themed T-shirts, bracelets and, at right, store-label earrings made in Fort Smith. 12

Entertainment Fort Smith

November/December 2020

algebra and speech, through UA-Fort Smith and most of that study is remote, as well. These factors gave her the schedule to operate the store. The family business was another plus – her parents are makers and wholesalers of leather purses and jewelry and their leased workplace included a retail storefront. And her 21-year-old brother, Josh, a marketing major, could be her business partner and chief financial officer. So Jordan seized the day, registered as an LLC and OhSoBoho is the retail result. One of her first customers was Northside High School principal Dr. Keri Rathbun, who is proud of her initiative. Everyone from teens to women can find something appealing and Jordan bought in a size for every woman from size 4-22 and small to 3X. “I’m an athletic build, so it is hard for me to find

FASHION FOCUS

cute things in boutiques, but not in my size” she said, “Here, if I find something cute offered only in small sizes, I find something that equals it, in a larger size.” Her connections with designers and wholesalers are almost a birthright – she started toddling through showrooms such as the Dallas Apparel Market with her mom, Carmen. Many of her selections came with a fond and encouraging discount from her parents’ colleagues, she said, keeping her retail pricing affordable and American-made. Her demographic price point is “broke college girl,” she said, laughing. Of course, her family’s leather purse lines and jewelry are part of the mix. She also chose fashion footware, sunglasses and a very up-to-the-moment accessory, a little keychain purse that snaps around a hand sanitizer bottle. The well-designed racks and displays were all constructed by her supportive army of mom, dad, brother, boyfriend and grandparents. “I’m really blessed,” Jordan said. Making a success of OhSoBoho is now her responsibility, along with her partner/brother. As a buyer, she chose a mix that customers will like, she hopes. Josh has set up a tracking system so they can learn to do their best at merchandising. Jordan said participating in a Junior Leadership Academy in her junior year influenced her to choose this path, especially meeting women entrepreneurs. She will seek a degree that builds her marketing and entrepreneurial skills. The boutique has online sales and social media. OhSoBoho is a real-life business learning experience. At 17, Jordan says it’s a thrill and a lot of creative fun, too. “I just wanted to give a little spunk to Fort Smith,” she said. OhSoBoho Boutique 115 North 10th Street, Brunwick Place Fort Smith, Ark. 479-384-6388 shopohsoboho.com November/December 2020

Entertainment Fort Smith

Hometown Holidays

GALLERY

of Gifts Buffalo plaids highlight holiday wall decor found at Firefly Boutique in Van Buren.

St. Dalfour fruit jams and marmalade from France,found at Paulâ€™s Meat Market

A full selection of Stella Rosa wines from In Good Spirits. Clay chiminea for toasty patio gatherings, from Yeager Hardware.

University of Arkansas Bentley drinkware and inSPAration spa & bath fragrance found at Luther Stem Pools & Spas. 14

Entertainment Fort Smith

November/December 2020

Gas, electric or glass top ranges from Mikeâ€™s Furniture. Have it delivered for holiday cooking.

GALLERY OF GIFTS Made in Fort Smith! Scented candles by Betty Rocker and Elf in the Glen; Old Fort beard oil and Big Cat soap, all carried by Olen & Co. Market.

Backsplash & countertop updates by D&D Floor Covering can transform a kitchen.

SoundGear Phantom BluetoothÂŽ compatible and rechargeable hearing protection and enhancement device, powered by Starkey Hearing Technology, available at the Center for Hearing.

Entertainment Fort Smith

November/December 2020

GALLERY OF GIFTS Climb high with a gift certificate from Vertical Horizons, a new indoor climbing adventure in Fort Smith.

Classic fall decor from A-Z Varietyâ€™s floral department.

Western chic womenâ€™s boots, turquoise necklace and hammered silver cuff bracelet found at Designer Again.

Entertainment Fort Smith

November/December 2020

Diamond studs in half-carat and one carat and a selection of cuts are always a perfect gift. From the Diamond Center.

From the wild come leopard and cowhide boots and booties, available at Heidiâ€™s Way Boutique in Pocola, Okla.

Be Curly by Aveda enhances the beauty of gloriously curly hair. Found at Metropolis Hair Studio, curly hair specialists.

November/December 2020

Entertainment Fort Smith

GALLERY OF GIFTS Works of natural beauty to wear from Fort Smith Regional Art Museum’s gift shop. Unique, original paintings, pottery, jewelry and more.

Rolex watches, exclusively from Newton’s Jeweler’s, are a gift of a lifetime. The iconic steel Submariner.

Entertainment Fort Smith

November/December 2020

Tom Ford sunglasses available from Dr. Steven B. Stiles Optometrist.

Vision 2023 Goals

Learning Environments/Facilities Align resources, facilities and technology strategically and equitably across the District to maximize security and enhance the learning environment.

Technology Provide appropriate technology that is consistently available, effectively supported and equitably distributed for group and individual instruction.

Career Planning

Staffing

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.

Recruit and retain highly qualified faculty, staff and administration.

Wellness

Equity

Develop and train empathetic and nurturing employees to be sensitive to and supportive of the needs of all children and families.

Develop and implement a system-wide plan to provide all students with the resources they need to optimize their learning.

Instruction Design, develop and implement programs to promote rigor, relevance, collaboration, critical thinking skills and learning environments designed to meet each studentâ€™s unique needs and aspirations.

Connect with Fort Smith Public Schools on social media Facebook @fortsmithpublicschools

Twitter @fsschools

Instagram @fsschools

LinkedIn /company/fsschools/

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.

Cover photo by Glenn Gilley 2 l 2020 FSPS REPORT TO THE PUBLIC

From the Superintendent:

Meeting the Challenge he 2019-2020 school year saw Fort Smith Public Schools tested in unprecedented ways due to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in our area last spring. I am proud of how our students, their families and our staff have adapted to this challenging set of circumstances. I am also grateful for the sound guidance we have received from representatives of these stakeholder groups and the other members of our community who have served on our Ready for Learning Committee. Like other school districts in Arkansas, FSPS started school on Aug. 24 offering in-person instruction. This has required extensive planning on the part of our district staff, campus leaders and educators. Hundreds of students have been quarantined based on close contact in school with a person who has tested positive. A relatively low number (approximately 0.5 percent) of students who have been quarantined have developed COVID-19 as the apparent result of close contacts in school. Prevention strategies such as hygiene education, mask wearing and frequent cleaning appear to be having a positive impact, along with the support of these messages that students are receiving at home and in our community. For now, we are able to continue in-person instruction and many activities in modified form. We hope conditions will continue to allow this into the fall and winter. In addition to continuing in-person instruction, our district also has implemented a 100 percent virtual option that features FSPS teachers and a curriculum designed for online instruction. In addition, Northside and Southside high schools have piloted instructional models featuring more flexible scheduling using both online and in-person instructional strategies. Enrollment in different programs has fluctuated significantly throughout the first quarter. The 80 percent of students selecting in-person learning has stabilized to some degree, with roughly 20 percent of our students now participating in our virtual option. These percentages reflect a much greater number of students engaged in virtual instruction than originally was projected. Modifications and adjustments continue as educators and parents work together to meet the needs of students. As a community of learners, we share a sense of gratitude for recent investments made in our schools that have helped our staff serve students and their families more effectively. When the referendum to fund the Vision 2023 Capital Improvement Program passed in May 2018, we could not have foreseen how critically important the resources it now provides would be within two short years. Each FSPS student now has access to a district-issued Chromebook, a tool that has served as a critical lifeline to students during our experience with emergency remote instruction last spring. This year, district-issued Chromebooks continue to keep students tethered to schools, teachers and classmates, helping them to overcome the isolation that so many of our students who are learning at home might have experienced otherwise. Using federal CARES Act funds, FSPS also has acquired LTE modems to bring internet access into the home for students who otherwise would not have it. In part because of the availability of this equipment, our schools are more prepared than ever to pivot to 100 percent online instruction at the classroom, school or district level if circumstances require it. Educators are participating in an 18-hour Virtual and Blended Learning Academy (VBLA) in which they learn strategies needed to teach online and otherwise make the most of these powerful tools.

In some ways, the pandemic has complicated Vision 2023 Capital Improvement projects. It has not stopped them. Construction of the ninth-grade centers, arenas, storm shelters and secure entries continues to transform our high school campuses into settings for 21st Century learning. Upgraded entries and other security projects at our elementary and junior high schools also are under way. Scheduled to open in August 2021, the Peak Innovation Center will serve as a regional hub for advanced learning and workforce development. This facility, developed in partnership with area businesses, UA-Fort Smith and 20 area school districts, continues to take shape at South Zero Street and Painter Lane in a 162,000-square-foot building generously donated by the William L. Hutcheson Trust. The project also is supported by a $1.4 million U.S. Economic Development Administration grant, $2.1 million in Arkansas Office of Skills Development funds designated by Gov. Asa Hutchinson and generous grants from local businesses and area nonprofits. Peak Innovation Center will expand access to advanced studies in high-tech, high-demand fields to students throughout our district and across the region. Our service delivery model includes a funding stream for use of the facility by students during the day and for continuing education programs during nights and weekends. This sustainability plan will help ensure the investments committed to this initiative by so many of our partners and will continue to pay dividends throughout our community for many years to come. The opening of the Peak Innovation Center will be especially exciting because the project illustrates the power of vision, collaboration and an approach to meeting the needs of students that is systematic and equitable. Working around many of the challenges presented by COVID-19 has required persistence and creativity. Thanks to the hard work of our students, staff, families and community stakeholders, 20192020 may be considered a very unusual year in many respects yet also a very successful one. Thank you for your continued support of our schools and students. Best regards,

Doug Brubaker, Ph.D. Superintendent of Schools 2020 FSPS REPORT TO THE PUBLIC l 3

Jayda Holloway, Northside High School

PEACE IN THE PARKS is a photography collaboration between the City of Fort Smith and Fort Smith Public Schools to showcase the brilliant camera work of Northside and Southside High School students as they explored city parks during Fall 2020. See more photos on pages 15 and 16. WHAT DOES THE MONEY BUY?

YOUR DOLLAR

Total Funds

WHAT ARE THE SOURCES OF REVENUE?

ACTUAL EXPENDITURES 2019-2020

ACTUAL REVENUES 2019-2020

IN THE FORT SMITH PUBLIC SCHOOLS Summary of Expenditures by Function minus Capital Projects Funds for 2019-20 FUNCTION Classroom Instruction Instruction/Support Services Administration Utilities, Maint. & Central Support Transportation School Meal Services Debt Services Capital Outlay TOTAL

Less Capital Projects Funds

CENTS 52 15 6 11 2 5 8 1 $1.00

&EDERAL

3TATE ,OCAL

FSPS at a Glance

14,788

$9,538,493

Student Enrollment 2019-2020

Awarded in Scholarships in 2020

2,039

1,001

$66,131,016

Employees as of June 22, 2020

Class of 2020 Graduates

Net Salaries Paid in 2019

4 l 2020 FSPS REPORT TO THE PUBLIC

Wellness & Equity Comprehensive School Counseling Plan Tailored to Address Needs of All Students The Fort Smith Public Schools counseling team led by Dr. Michael Farrell, Supervisor of Student Services, made significant revisions to the current counseling program during the 2019-2020 school year. In August of 2019, Fort Smith Public Schools partnered with an organization led by Trish Hatch called “Hatching Results”. The partnership created a new collaborative counseling curriculum which included district-wide initiatives tailored to a specific age group of students, and social and emotional learning. Social and Dr. Michael Farrell and the counseling team discuss the new comprehensive school emotional learning addresses five core competencies counseling plan with private mental health providers and district stakeholders. which include self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills and responsible have a counseling program that meets the needs of all students, not decision making. These practices will benefit students to provide an just some, that we need to be using best practices from research, we intentional, equitable and data-informed school counseling program need to be data-driven, we have to make sure we are professionals in the Fort Smith Public Schools district. Karen Williamson, lead and experts and that we are outcome-based and we are looking at Elementary Counselor, said in regards to the partnership, “Hatching what our students need.” Results has pushed us to a new level. It helped us see that in order to

Kindle Fire Tablet Distribution for At-Home Instruction In April 2020, the FSPS Parker Center distributed 150 Kindle Fire Tablets to English learning PreK through 12thgrade students. The tablets provide helpful translation applications beneficial in supporting language and content proficiencies during at-home instruction. FSPS paraprofessionals also were provided tablets to assist parents and students with the translation resources.

2020 FSPS REPORT TO THE PUBLIC l 5

Wellness & Equity Meals Continue for Students

SPEAK UP! In Spring 2020 when on-site learning closed across the state of Arkansas, the Fort Smith Public Schools Child Nutrition Department continued to work diligently to provide nutritious meals to students learning at home. Grab-and-go meals were made available to students to pick-up and enjoy at home. During the first week of April, child nutrition staff served approximately 22,360 meals! As the 2019-2020 school year ended, grab-and-go meals continued to be served throughout the summer, with approximately 255,694 meals served. “We know the importance of serving a nutritious and delicious meal to students, and I am so proud of the work our team did during the school closure to ensure every student had access to breakfast and lunch each school week,” said Leigh Christian, Child Nutrition Director.

286,404 MEALS SERVED TO STUDENTS MARCH THROUGH MAY 2020

BY CHILD NUTRITION

6 l 2020 FSPS REPORT TO THE PUBLIC

Let Us Know Anonymously Providing open, direct communication with the community has long been a basic practice for the Fort Smith Public Schools. In January 2020, Fort Smith Public Schools launched the Safe School Helpline® to provide additional ways for parents and students to share information about potential dangers or threats. The Safe School Helpline® number (800-418-6423, extension 359) utilizes a unique, automated telephone service that allows callers to report an allegation, concern or suggestion confidentially and anonymously.

Reports can also be made by visiting

SafeSchoolHelpline.com or texting 66747 to TIPS

Fort Smith Teacher Named 2021 Arkansas Teacher of the Year

Pictured from left are Dr. Doug Brubaker, Superintendent; board member Dalton Person, 2021 Arkansas Teacher of the Year Susanna Post, board member Susan McFerran and board secretary Dee Blackwell.

hen Susanna Post, a math and business technology teacher at Belle Point Alternative Center in Fort Smith, arrived at school on the morning of October 19, 2020, she had no idea a huge surprise awaited her. During an 11 a.m. routine, socially-distant assembly, Arkansas Department of Education Secretary Johnny Key recognized Post as the 2021 Arkansas Teacher of the Year.

Post, a five-year teacher, utilizes her previous business world experience to build relationships with her students, connect them with the outside community, and give them real-world, relatable problems to solve. She strongly believes positive relationships result in improved student learning and a strong school culture. Because of her multi-dimensional approach to reach each and every student, Post was named the Arkansas Teacher of the Year. “Susanna Post’s real-life experience in the business world enriches the lessons that she teaches in the classroom,” Gov. Asa Hutchinson said. “The list of programs she leads at Belle Point is evidence that she goes the extra mile. Her students are fortunate that Ms. Post decided to leave the oil and gas industry and return to Arkansas to resume her teaching career. Above and beyond her education and experience, however, she has a heart for her students.” “Each year, I get the privilege of announcing the Arkansas Teacher of the Year,” Key said. “This is an extremely tough decision, considering all the amazing teachers here in Arkansas. This year, however, one teacher, Ms. Susanna Post, stood out as the best of the best. Her exceptional ability to identify and meet the needs of every student exemplifies teaching excellence and empowers students to rise above all barriers to achieve success. I am extremely excited about Ms. Post’s platform to close the “empathy gap,” which is essential for student engagement and academic achievement. I know Ms. Post will make her students, her co-workers, Fort Smith and Arkansas proud. Congratulations!” Post began her teaching career at Wake County Public Schools in Raleigh, N.C., in July 2002. Because of a family move, Post

temporarily left the classroom and entered the business world. She worked as a petroleum analyst and senior engineering technician at multiple oil and gas companies in Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas, and in Fort Smith, prior to returning to the classroom in 2016. She has taught at Belle Point Alternative Center since 2016, previously supplemented homeschool curriculum for Grace Academy in Fort Smith, and continues to serve as an expert facilitator for the New Tech Network. At Belle Point, Post has co-taught with a senior high school Special Education teacher, initiated the school’s first Coding Club, coordinated with district curriculum leaders to create an ACT prep program, facilitated a Lindamood-Bell literacy intervention group, served on the district’s secondary math curriculum development team and incorporates community relationships into problem- and project-based lessons. She leads the school’s Culture Project Week, which includes projectbased activities that improve school culture by strengthening relationships between students, teachers and the community. Post was selected for the Class of 2020 Aspiring Leaders Institute and was named the 2020 Fort Smith Teacher of the Year. She has a Bachelor of Science in Applied Mathematics, with a minor in Computer Science, from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville, a Master of Arts in Teaching from the University of Central Arkansas at Conway and a Master of Education in Rural and Urban School Leadership from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. In addition to being eligible to become the National Teacher of the Year, Post received an additional $14,000 award sponsored by the Walton Family Foundation. She previously received $1,000 when named a Regional Finalist and an additional $1,000 when selected as a State Semi-Finalist. Her one-year tenure as Teacher of the Year will begin July 1, 2021. During this time, Post will travel the state as a representative for teachers and will serve as a non-voting member on the State Board of Education. 2020 FSPS REPORT TO THE PUBLIC l 7

Career Planning

Peak Innovation to Support Regional Workforce Development: The Peak Innovation Center is a regional solution connecting students to opportunity through engaging instruction and specialized training. With student enrollment under way, the Peak Innovation Center is set to open its doors Fall 2021.

Building Donated to Support Career & Technology Education In February 2019, Fort Smith Public Schools Board of Education voted to accept the donation of a 181,710-square-foot building on a 16.69-acre parcel from the Estate of William L. Hutcheson Jr. to redevelop as the Peak Innovation Center. The donation provided an additional $3 million in project value for career and technology education center programming. The donated facility, formerly the home of Hutcheson Shoes, is located at the intersection of Zero and Painter Lane in Fort Smith.

The development of Peak Innovation Center was approved as part of the districtâ€™s Vision 2023 Capital Improvement Program by Fort Smith and Barling voters in May 2018. Windgate made a $750,000 contribution for innovative arts and other districtspecific programming. ABB followed with a $1 million grant for learning and automation equipment for the advanced manufacturing pathway.

$2.1 Million Pledge Supports Purchase of Advanced Manufacturing Equipment In January 2020, Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson and Mike Preston, Arkansas Secretary of Commerce and Executive Director of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission, announced that $2.1 million from the Office of Skills Development (OSD) of the Arkansas Department of Commerce will be used to support the purchase of advanced manufacturing equipment for the career and technology center (now known as the Peak Innovation Center). The development of this center is a Career Planning partnership project with the University of Arkansas - Fort Smith and the Fort Smith Regional Chamber of Commerce. 8 l 2020 FSPS REPORT TO THE PUBLIC

Career Planning Fort Smith Receives $1.4 Million for FSPS Career Education In October 2019, U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR), U.S. Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR), Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) and Governor Asa Hutchinson (R-AR) announced that 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 was made to support the development of the career and technology center (now known as Peak Innovation Center), a state-of-the-art facility that will feature specialized lab spaces and classrooms for courses in advanced manufacturing, health sciences, and information technology.

Peak Innovation Center Receives $1 Million Grant from Gene Haas Foundation In June 2020, Peak Innovation Center received a $1 million grant from the Gene Haas Foundation for expansion of the Computer Integrated Machining Lab. The Gene Haas Foundation, founded in 1999 by Gene Haas, owner of Haas Automation Inc., is a Californiabased private foundation committed to advanced manufacturing education. Haas Automation Inc. is

America’s leading builder of CNC machine tools, which Haas started in 1983. Upon completion, the Lab will be approximately 12,000 square feet, equipped with state-of-the-art machining equipment and technology, and ready for training of our regional students. The Lab will be named the "Gene Haas Computer Integrated Machining Lab.” 2020 FSPS REPORT TO THE PUBLIC l 9

Staffing

Beaumont Named Director of Athletics & Student Activities Fort Smith Public Schools Board of Directors approved Michael Beaumont as the Director of Athletics and Student Activities. Beaumont previously served as the Director of Operations for the University of Tennessee Women’s Basketball Team. Additionally, Beaumont has served on the athletics staff of the University of Arkansas, University of Mississippi, and University of Central Arkansas. In addition to his 15 years at the university level, Beaumont was an athletic director/coach/teacher for Lincoln Public Schools in Lincoln, Ark. “I am very excited to be part of the Fort Smith Schools program, which is so rich in history, pride and tradition,” said Beaumont . “I know the district has excellent teachers, leaders, and coaches. I feel truly humbled and blessed to join the Fort Smith team.”

FSPS Establishes Police Department The Board of Education approved establishing the FSPS Police Department after the Arkansas State Legislature enacted Act 629, allowing school districts to establish police departments. Fort Smith Public Schools established its own police department in Summer 2019 and began transitioning certified school security officers to police officers. “Fort Smith Public Schools was one of the first school districts in the state of Arkansas to have its own police department,” said FSPS PD Chief Bill Hollenbeck. Today, the FSPS PD employs five full-time certified Police Officers who work with students to build positive relationships and help identify any issues. School Resource Officers (SROs) keep the lines of communication open between students, families, administrators and law enforcement. SROs have the authority to exercise the same powers granted under authority of law, including, but not limited to, the issuance of citations, as well as the power to arrest. The Fort Smith Public School Police Department has over 100 years of combined experience in law enforcement.

Photo by Karen Schwartz

Fort Smith Teacher Named 2020 Arkansas PTA Teacher of the Year The Arkansas Parent Teacher Association named Fort Smith Public Schools’ Cavanaugh Elementary School 5th-Grade Teacher Crissy Pierce as 2020 Arkansas PTA Teacher of the Year. Pierce was nominated for the recognition by the Cavanaugh Elementary School PTA. “Crissy Pierce is a gifted, well-rounded professional. Athletic, humorous and knowledgeable, she captivates the attention of her students and peers. Caring, committed, and concerned, Mrs. Pierce is admired and loved by her students, parents and colleagues because of her fervent ‘Success for All’ advocacy. Once a student has had Crissy Pierce as a teacher, they have her as a friend, support and cheerleader for life,” said the Cavanaugh Elementary School PTA. Mrs. Pierce also serves on the Cavanaugh PTA Board as the Box Top Chair. In this role, she supports the PTA and school by encouraging students and families to submit their Box Tops for Education to assist with school funding. 10 l 2020 FSPS REPORT TO THE PUBLIC

Instruction FSPS Establishes Health Sciences Academy at Darby Junior High In June 2020, Fort Smith Public Schools introduced its inaugural Health Sciences Academy (HSA) at Darby Junior High, an innovative, hands-on academic learning program through the lens of health sciences. The HSA is open by application to sixth-grade students throughout the district to experience project-based, accelerated learning in the areas of math and science.

Northside, Spradling and Ballman Named Model PLC Schools Northside High School and Spradling and Ballman elementary schools were each recognized in Spring 2020 by Solution Tree as a Model Professional Learning Community (PLC) at Work™. They are three of 200 schools and districts in the U.S. and Canada to receive this honor! PLCs are schools and districts in which educators recognize the key to improved learning for students is on-going, job-embedded learning for the adults who serve those students. The three big ideas of a PLC call upon educators to: Focus on learning. Build a collaborative culture. Create a results orientation. Schools are recognized based on strict criteria, including demonstration of a commitment to PLC concepts,

PLC School. We are grateful for your support,” said Lori Griffin, Ballman Elementary Principal.

implementation of these concepts for at least three years, and clear evidence of improved student learning over that period. Once measurable results can be seen, the school must explain its practices, structures, and culture and submit its application for consideration by the PLC Review Committee. “After six years of perseverance and hard work to build a collaborative culture focused on more learning for all, we are excited to share that Ballman was selected as a Model

Orr Selected for PLC Inclusive Practices Project In Spring 2020, Raymond F. Orr Elementary School was selected to participate in the Inclusive Practices PLC Project for the 20202021 school year by the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education – Special Education Unit. The project will have an intentional focus on inclusive practice to support meaningful access to core instruction for students who are IEP (Individual Education Plan) eligible.

“We are honored to receive this recognition. The PLC process has been integral in improving our overall school culture and improved student learning results,” said Dr. Keri Rathbun, Northside High School Principal. “Spradling Elementary is humbled and honored to join the ranks of National PLC Model Schools. We are dedicated to continue to serve our students at this level through this process. Our staff and students have worked hard to get this achievement and we appreciate all the support we have been given by FSPS Administration. Together we achieve more,” said Robyn Dawson, Principal.

"We are very excited about this collaborative project and the impact this grant will have on all of our students, our staff, our district, and our community!” said Dr. Dawn Childress, Principal, Raymond F. Orr Elementary School. Selected schools will be matched with a certified Solution Tree associate and receive onsite support as they implement, deepen, and sustain the PLC process with a focus on inclusive practices. Orr Elementary School was selected through a rigorous application and evaluation process, determined by a committee comprised of educational professionals knowledgeable of the Professional Learning Communities at Work process. 2020 FSPS REPORT TO THE PUBLIC l 11

Technology & Equity

Park & Learn Wi-Fi Zones: As students transitioned from on-site learning to remote learning in Spring 2020, the Fort Smith Public Schools Technology Department created Wi-Fi access points at each school campus for students to complete their school work on their district-issued Chromebook devices. The internet access points were accompanied by new 'Park & Learn' signs, with each sign indicating the best location for students to access Wi-Fi at each location. Students could access Wi-Fi at any campus location. The new 'Park & Learn' signs replaced the Millage 2018 signs.

12 l 2020 FSPS REPORT TO THE PUBLIC

Covid-19 Response Handprint Artwork

In mid-April, the district asked students, families, teachers, staff and community members to help share a little joy during the COVID-19 pandemic by creating handprint art for those on the front line caring for the Fort Smith community. The activity was open to anyone. The artwork was gifted to the Fort Smith Police Department, Fort Smith Fire Department, Methodist Village Senior Living, Fort Smith EMS, Ashton Place Health and Rehabilitation and The Waters of Fort Smith.

Changing with the Times Educators: Using instruction and equity as our guide, Fort Smith Public Schools developed an inaugural Virtual/Blended Learning Academy. The Academy designates 18 hours of the existing 54 hours of required professional development for the 2020-21 school year. Certified staff who complete all three levels (18 hours) receive a $500 stipend.

Students & Families: Fort Smith Public Schools also developed its first-ever virtual learning option called â€˜FSPS Virtual Optionâ€™ in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The FSPS Virtual Option was made available to students and families who preferred to start the 2020-21 school year 100 percent online.

2020 FSPS REPORT TO THE PUBLIC l 13

Learning Environments/Facilities These projects were approved by Fort Smith and Barling resident in 2023 Capital Improvement Program

$69 Million Capital Improvement Investments in 2019 for FSPS Building Permits

On Oct. 29, 2019, Fort Smith Public Schools held a groundbreaking for its capital improvement work at Southside High School. Southside will receive a freshman center, competition gym, new administrative spaces and interior renovations, which include a new library media center, cafeteria and safe rooms. The multiphase construction project at Southside High School is expected to be complete in Fall 2021.

On Nov. 11, 2019, Fort Smith Public Schools held a groundbreaking for its capital improvement work at Northside High School. Northside will receive a new administrative center, cafeteria renovations, a secure entrance that connects to the offices for guest check-in, a freshman center, competition gym and safe rooms. The multiphase construction project at Northside High School is expected to be complete in Fall 2021.

Construction Instagram Launched In January 2019, Fort Smith Public Schools launched an Instagram account dedicated solely to Vision 2023 Capital Improvement Project Updates. The Instagram account is used to show the before, during and after processes of construction that are happening on many of the FSPS campuses. The feed can be found on the Millage Updates page on the FSPS website or @fspsconstruction on Instagram. 14 l 2020 FSPS REPORT TO THE PUBLIC

Fort Smith Public Schools is proud to have nine 2019 National Merit Scholarship Semi-Finalists from Northside High School and Southside High School. These nine students had qualifying scores on the 2018-2019 PSAT exam. Left picture: Benton Anderson, Northside High School. Right picture: Mahdir Anower, Kenneth Clardy, Martina Gooden, Joshua Hannan, Heber Martin, Angelica Phan, Madison Settlage and George Welsch, Southside High School. The Arkansas Department of Education's Division of Elementary and Secondary Education, in collaboration with the Arkansas Department of Health, selected Darby Junior High School with three other Arkansas schools to each receive $542,000 over a five-year period to implement School-Based Health Centers.

FSPS to Receive State School-Based Health Center Grant

"Awarding these grants could not have come at a better time,” ADE Secretary Johnny Key said. “With our schools facing unprecedented health challenges this school year, these grants will give these four schools the opportunity to expand their partnerships, complete renovations, and be prepared to offer health services at the beginning of the next school year. The services provided will not only help schools better assist students, they also will provide essential care to teachers and families.” The grant writing team that included FSPS' Zena Featherston Marshall, Dr. Courtney Morawski and Mercy's Patricia Morris completed the SBHC Grant application in March as the state was moving toward remote learning and Alternative Methods of Instruction (AMI) for the spring semester.

Breilly Harper, Southside High School

Paisley Wilkinson, Southside High School

PEACE IN THE PARKS 2020 FSPS REPORT TO THE PUBLIC l 15

Ruba Yasin, Northside High School

PEACE IN THE PARKS FSPS Activities

School Board Fact

Athletics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,990 Band . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,249 Cheer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113 Drill Team . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119 Choir . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 787 Orchestra . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 575 JROTC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 311 Drama . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162 Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5,306

Fort Smith Public School Board members documented 68.5 hours in Arkansas School Board training in 2019-2020. 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.

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 PM 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. Bill Hanesworth, President Talicia Richardson, Vice President Superintendent Dee Blackwell, Secretary

Wade Gilkey Yvonne Keaton-Martin Susan McFerran Dalton Person

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 2020 FSPS REPORT TO THE PUBLIC

GALLERY OF GIFTS

Brightly enameled watering cans found at Neumeierâ€™s Nursery & Greenhouses.

TheraRx anti-bacterial scalp & skin wash by MEDIceuticals from Salon Elements.

Fashion statements and jewelry selections from OhSoBoho Boutique in sizes for every woman.

Entertainment Fort Smith

November/December 2020

WHAT’S COOKING

The

Season

Sweetness

PEPPERMINT BARK OREOS 12 Oreo cookies 2 cups dark chocolate candy coating 2 cups white chocolate candy coating 2 candy canes, finely crushed Plain candy mold pan, 21⁄4 diameter Melt candy coatings separately according to package directions. Place a spoonful of dark chocolate coating in the bottom of each mold, making sure it's enough to cover the bottom of the mold. Press an Oreo into each mold so that the chocolate is pushed up around the sides of the cookie. Spoon white chocolate on top of the cookie, spreading to the edges. Sprinkle with crushed candy, then drizzle with dark chocolate. Place in refrigerator for about 15 minutes, until firm. Remove from molds.

MINT CHOCOLATE CHIP TRUFFLES 4 cups powdered sugar 4 tbsp. salted butter, melted 7 oz. (1/2 can) sweetened condensed milk 11⁄2 teaspoons mint extract 2 oz. semisweet chocolate, finely chopped Few drops green food coloring 16 oz. chocolate almond bark, for coating In a large bowl, mix the powdered sugar, melted butter, sweetened condensed milk and mint extract with a large wooden spoon (you may have to use your hands toward the end) until smooth. Fold in green food coloring and chopped chocolate until combined. Refrigerate uncovered for about 30 minutes, then roll into balls with damp hands and place on cookie sheets lined with wax paper. Refrigerate again for about an hour. Melt almond bark according to package directions. Dip the candies in the melted chocolate, shaking excess chocolate off gently. Place back on lined cookie sheets. Using a fork, drizzle any leftover chocolate on candies and refrigerate until firm. 24

Entertainment Fort Smith

November/December 2020

WHATâ€™S COOKING

RUM-SOAKED CHOCOLATE-COVERED CHERRIES 1 jar (10 ounces) maraschino cherries (with stems), drained 1/2 cup rum 8 oz. chocolate almond bark Sprinkles and additional white almond bark for decorating, if desired Place cherries in a bowl and cover with rum. Cover and refrigerate overnight. Drain cherries and pat dry with paper towels, then let them sit on paper towels for a few minutes. In a microwave, melt almond bark according to package directions; stir until smooth. Holding stems, dip cherries in chocolate mixture, allowing excess to drip off. If desired, dip in sprinkles or drizzle with white chocolate. Place on waxed paper and let sit until set.

NO-BAKE PEANUT BUTTER MARSHMALLOW BARS 11 oz. bag butterscotch chips 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter 7 tbsp. salted butter 5 cups mini marshmallows Line an 8x8 pan with foil and spray with nonstick cooking spray. Set aside. Pour marshmallows in a large, wide bowl. Set aside. In a medium saucepan, melt the butterscotch chips, peanut butter and butter over medium heat, stirring constantly. Once the mixture is melted and smooth, remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Pour mixture over marshmallows, folding until marshmallows are completely coated. Pour mixture into prepared pan. Refrigerate until chilled and set â€“ a couple of hours. November/December 2020

Entertainment Fort Smith

KIDS EVENTS NOVEMBER Nov. 1-30 Virtual Tween and Teen Time Tween/teen times are virtual during all month. Free. 4-6 p.m. Facebook-VBPLTeenspace

Nov. 2 Handprint Leaves on Facebook Join Miss Allison and celebrate autumn by getting crafty. Turn your handprint into a fall leaf collage. Call the library for a free craft kit while supplies last. Free. 4-6 p.m. Facebook-Alma Public Library

Nov. 2, 9 K-12 Home School and Afterschool Art Classes Each class focuses on a new project that incorporates state standard art practices and art history. Students learn from modern masters and learn new techniques, meet artists throughout history and from around the world, and experiment with a variety of mediums. For students K-12 grades. 1-3:30 p.m. home-school students; 4-5:30 p.m. afterschool students. Call to register. $8 per class. Center for Art and Education, 104 North 13th Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-7767 art-ed.org

Nov. 2, 20, Dec. 7, 18 Story Safari Join zany librarians Mrs. Rachel and Mrs. Tiffany online for the hunt for a great book. Free. 10-10:15 a.m. Facebook and YouTube-Fort Smith Public Library

Nov. 3 Virtual Turkey Windsock Have you ever made a windsock? What about a turkey windsock? Ms. Reeca will show you how. Call for a free craft kit while supplies last. Tweens/teens. Free. 4-6 p.m. Facebook-Alma Public Library 479-632-4140

Nov. 3-24 Virtual Baby and Me Storytime This is a time for babies, ages birth to 3, and caregivers to hear age appropriate stories and sing songs. Free. 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays. Facebook-vbplchildrenslibrary

Nov. 3-24 Weekly Storytime It's Dinovember all month, all about dinosaurs. Read all kinds of books on, you got it, dinosaurs. The storytime is designed to be fun for everyone while building literacy skills, basic knowledge and confidence. Free. 2:30-4:30 p.m. Tuesdays. Facebook-Mountainburg Public Library

Nov. 3-24 Tuesday Surprise on Facebook Live Sometimes S.T.E.M., sometimes a craft, sometimes a story – it’s a surprise. Free. 4-6 p.m. Tuesdays. Facebook-Mulberry Public Library

Nov. 4, 18 Facebook Live Storytime Ms. Lara will read a story and show you how to do a fun craft live. Log on and see what she’s up to. This month's themes will be soldiers and Thanksgiving. Free. 10 a.m.-noon. Facebook-Cedarville Public Library 26

Entertainment Fort Smith

November/December 2020

Nov. 4, 18, 25 Virtual Storytime Vitual storytime for children. Some weeks, there will be craft kits given out. Call to reserve yours while supplies last. Free. 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Van Buren Public Library,1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 Facebook-vbplchildrenslibrary

Nov. 4-Dec. 30 Studio Art: RAM Virtual Class This hands-on home-school class will focus on teaching students how to see and analyze as an artist and, using those skills, to execute detail-oriented assignments. The Elements and Principles of Design will be emphasized and students will use them in explaining their work and process. Ages 12-18. Online registration is required. Free. 10 a.m. Wednesdays. Fort Smith Regional Art Museum, 1601 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-784-2787 fsram.org/education

Nov. 4-Dec. 30 Music as an Art Prompt: RAM Virtual Class This exciting home-school class for ages 6-11 will focus on teaching students about the art/music movements throughout the years. They will then listen to the period music and create art with the movement in mind. Online registration is required. Free. 11 a.m. Wednesdays. Fort Smith Regional Art Museum, 1601 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-784-2787 fsram.org/education

Nov. 5 Ms. Robin’s Favorites: Rosie: Stronger Than Steel Help Ms. Robin open up the Library Surprise Bag to see Fred and which story you'll get to hear. If you have a favorite, let Ms. Robin know. Free. 10-10:15 a.m. Facebook and YouTube-Fort Smith Public Library

Nov. 5 Storytime on Facebook Live A traditional storytime with a craft demonstration for children. Free. 10 a.m.-noon. Facebook-Mulberry Public Library

Nov. 5 Tween Thursday Fun program geared toward middle school-aged kids. Ms. Lara will post a video covering topics like S.T.E.A.M., coding or something informative or silly. November’s activity will be a coding project. Free. 3:45-5:45 p.m. Facebook-Cedarville Public Library

Nov. 5 Virtual Clothespin Turkey For this fun and easy craft, you’ll be making a turkey out of a clothespin. Ms. Reeca will show you how in a video. Call for a free craft kit while supplies last. 4-6 p.m. Facebook-Alma Public Library 479-632-4140

Nov. 5-19 Virtual Storytime Enjoy a fun story with Miss Allison. After reading a short book, learn how to make a themed craft to go along with the story. Call for a free craft kit while supplies last. Toddlers/children. Free. 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Thursdays. Facebook-Alma Public Library 479-632-4140

Nov. 6 Story Break with Mrs. Tiffany Mrs. Tiffany will share a story with a special animal or

visit an interesting location in our area. Watch anytime online. Free. 10-10:10 a.m. Facebook and YouTube-Fort Smith Public Library

Nov. 6-20 Weekly Kraftivity with Miss Kara It’s “Dinovember” Kraftivity, led Miss Kara online. Read all kinds of books on, you got it, dinosaurs. Build literacy skills, basic knowledge and confidence. Learn about the different sizes of dinosaurs, as well as those from the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods. Call to arrange a pick-up. Free. 2:30-4:30 p.m. Fridays. Mountainburg Public Library, 225 U.S. 71 North, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-1600 Facebook-Mountainburg Public Library

Nov. 9 3-D Turkey Craft Get into the fall spirit and use your artistic talents to make a fun 3-D Turkey Craft. Craft kits will be available in the rotunda, while supplies last. Scan the included QR code or visit the library’s YouTube page for craft instructions. This is a great craft for teens and adults. Free. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. YouTube-Fort Smith Public Library Nov. 10 Craft Stick Turkey on Facebook Toddlers and children can join Miss Allison online for a kids’ craft. Make a turkey out of craft sticks. Call for a free craft kit while supplies last. Free. 4-6 p.m. Facebook-Alma Public Library 479-632-4140

Nov. 10 Window Screen Leaves Craft Teens and tweens can learn to make leaves out of window screening by following Ms. Reeca's online video. Call the library to pick up a free DIY kit, while supplies last. Free. 4-6 p.m. Facebook-Alma Public Library 479-632-4140

Nov. 12 Biography Break with Ms. Robin: Arkansas Diamond Style! “Chester Nez and the Unbreakable Code – A Navajo Code Talker's Story” Real people are fascinating and it is fun to learn more about them. Chester Nez was a boy who was told to give up his Navajo roots. He became a man who used his native language to help America to victory in World War II. The Arkansas Diamond Primary Book Award is designed to encourage reading. Students read and/or listen to at least three titles from the nominated books and vote for their favorite. The award is coordinated by the Arkansas State Library. Free. 10-10:15 a.m. Facebook and YouTube-Fort Smith Public Library

Nov. 12 Storytime on Facebook Live Mulberry librarians share a traditional storytime with a craft demonstration for children. Free. 10 a.m.-noon. Facebook-Mulberry Public Library

Nov. 12 Teen Time Ms. Lara will post a video just for the teens. Lots of topics and activities will be covered such as S.T.E.A.M. projects, coding or maybe just something crazy. Free. 3:45-5:45 p.m. Facebook-Cedarville Public Library Nov. 12 Coffee Filter Leaves Craft In this easy, fun, virtual craft class, learn how to make

KIDS EVENTS leaves out of coffee filters. Ms. Reeca demonstrates on the library's Facebook page. Phone the library to pick up a free supply kit. Limited quantity. Free. 4-6 p.m. Facebook-Alma Public Library

Nov. 16 Candy Corn Man on Facebook Use colored paper to make a candy corn man. Free craft kits are available, while supplies last, by calling the library. Toddlers and children can follow Miss Allison on the Alma Public Library Facebook page. Free. 4-6 p.m. Facebook-Alma Public Library

Nov. 16, Dec. 21 Laptime Storytime with Mrs. Tiffany Join Mrs. Tiffany for a virtual laptime storytime. Be sure and stay tuned until the end when, after she reads and acts silly, she'll share a simple craft that you can create at home. Free. 10 a.m.-10:15 AM. Facebook and YouTube-Fort Smith Public Library Nov. 17 Virtual Acorn Marble Necklaces Have you ever thought about using an acorn or marble to make a necklace? So cool! Ms. Reeca will show you how online. Call the library for a free DIY kit. Supplies limited. Tweens/Teens. Free. 4-6 p.m. Facebook-Alma Public Library

Nov. 18 Storytime with Matia: “Princess Hair” It's National Princess Day and Matia has a princess book for you. Princesses with curls wear pearls, princesses with head wraps take long naps and princesses with teeny-weeny Afros wear teeny-weeny bows. Princess Hair, written and illustrated by Sharee Miller, is a celebration of different hair shapes, textures and styles, all fit for a princess. From dreadlocks to blowouts to braids, Princess Hair shines a spotlight on the beauty and diversity of black hair. Every kind of hair is princess hair. View the program anytime online after its premiere. Free. 10-10:10 a.m. Facebook and YouTube-Fort Smith Public Library

Nov. 19 Thanksgiving Storytime Your friends from the Fort Smith Public Library are thankful for you. Join the library staff and some special guests for this fun Thanksgiving storytime. Free. 10-10:15 a.m. Facebook and YouTube-Fort Smith Public Library

Nov. 19 Storytime on Facebook Live Watch on Facebook Live for a traditional storytime with a craft demonstration for children.Free. 10 a.m.noon. Facebook-Mulberry Public Library

Nov. 19 Virtual Storytime Enjoy a fun story with Miss Allison on the Alma Public Library Facebook page! After reading a short book, learn how to make a fun craft. Free craft kits are available, while supplies last, by calling the library. Free. 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Facebook-Alma Public Library Nov. 22 Sugar Plum Fairy Tea Join favorite Nutcracker characters for a delightful afternoon of snacks, dancing and fun Nutcracker and Christmas crafts. There are two sessions from which to choose this year. Advance tickets, available online,

are required. Benefits Western Arkansas Ballet. $30. 1-2:30 p.m. or 3:30-5 p.m. Western Arkansas Ballet, 4701 Grand Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-785-0152 waballet.org

Nov. 23 Build the Tallest Tower Watch the video for a supply list and instructions about how to complete the activity. Watch “Build the Tallest Tower” anytime online. Free. 10-10:10 a.m. Facebook and YouTube-Fort Smith Public Library

Nov. 23 Cotton Ball Tree Painting on Facebook Toddlers and children – follow along with Miss Allison online. You will need cotton balls and paint. Free craft kits are available, while supplies last, by calling the library. Free. 4-6 p.m. Facebook-Alma Public Library

Nov. 24 Virtual Gratitude Stones Teens and tweens can show their personal gratitude with painted stones to share with friends. Ms. Reeca will demonstrate how online. Call for a free craft kit while supplies last. Free. 4-6 p.m. Facebook-Alma Public Library

Nov. 30 Paper Bag Scarecrow on Facebook Toddlers and children can join Miss Allison on video to make a scarecrow craft. This fun activity for toddlers and children uses a paper bag and a template to make a paper bag scarecrow. Call for a free craft kit while supplies last. Free. 4-6 p.m. Facebook-Alma Public Library

DECEMBER Dec. 3 Biography Break with Ms. Robin Real people are fascinating and it is fun to learn more about them. Free. 10-10:10 a.m. Facebook and YouTube-Fort Smith Public Library

Dec. 4 Story Break with Mrs. Tiffany Mrs. Tiffany will share a story with a special animal or visit an interesting location in our area. Watch anytime online after the debut. Free. 10-10:10 a.m. Facebook and YouTube-Fort Smith Public Library

Dec. 10 Storytime with Matia: “I Love My Hair” This fun book was written by Natasha Anastasia Tarpley, illustrated by E.B. Lewis. Post a picture of your hair after you listen to the story. This program can be viewed any time after its premiere. Free. 10-10:10 a.m. Facebook and YouTube-Fort Smith Public Library

Dec. 17 Ms. Robin’s Favorites: Christmas Storytime Open up the Library Surprise Bag to see Fred and which story you'll get to hear. If you have a favorite story, let Ms. Robin know. Free. 10-10:15 a.m. Facebook and YouTube-Fort Smith Public Library

Dec. 21 Christmas Candy Catapults Watch the video for a supply list and instructions on how to complete the activity. Watch live. 10-10:10 a.m. Facebook and YouTube-Fort Smith Public Library

November/December 2020

Entertainment Fort Smith

CALENDAR of events

Nov. 1-Dec. 27 Billie Holiday at Sugar Hill Enter the public and private worlds of Billie Holiday through the poignant, beautiful photographs of Jerry Dantzic. Enjoy a seldom-seen video of Ms. Holiday performing at Sugar Hill, Newark, N.J., in April 1957. This event is an exhibition organized for travel by the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service in collaboration with the Jerry Dantzic Archives. Free. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday; 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. Fort Smith Regional Art Museum, 1601 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-784-2787 fsram.org Nov. 1-27 CAE: Lin Chen Opening and Exhibition An opening reception will be held from 1-4 p.m. Nov. 1 for a collection of portraits and mixed media by artist Lin Chen. Through layering and manipulation, her mixed media works bring fragments of disparate graphics and texture into coherence, and with it a new expression reflecting her love for pattern, surface effect, and decoration. Reception and exhibition, free. Center for Art & Education, 104 North 13th Street, Van Buren, Ark. art-ed.org

Junior League Holiday Home Tour Goes to Video DEC

The popular Holiday Home Tour held annually by the Junior League of Fort Smith will become a video program this year, showing a lavish tour of five beautifully decorate private homes and some bonus breaks with local experts who show how to create your own decor.

Watching from home, viewers can pause and replay to enjoy a tour even longer than they would have in person. $10 tickets, purchased online, will include entry in a drawing for fabulous door prizes. Prizes are a Louis Vuitton purse donated by First Security Bank, a Kendra Scott Jae Star Necklace donated by the Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine, WeatherTech floor mats from Tri-State Enterprises, a massage at Fort Smith Wellness donated by Frances Combs, two Health and Wellness prize packages from JB Animal Chiropractic, and a SB Lash and Wax Facial with Dermaplane donated by SB Lash and Wax. In addition, Jeff’s Clubhouse and Amazing Graze are offering catered brunch packages bundled with tickets, detailed online. Purchase tickets and read more about the tour and all its features on Junior League of Fort Smith’s Facebook and its Holiday Home Tour Fort Smith Instagram. Proceeds support the league’s focus on children aging out of foster care, through several ongoing services and scholarships. 28

Entertainment Fort Smith

November/December 2020

Nov. 1-Jan. 31 Suzannah Schreckhise: Attention to Tension Fort Smith Regional Art Museum presents a solo Schreckhise sculpture exhibition by Suzannah Schreckhise. She won the 2019 RAM Invitational and along with a cash prize has won this solo show. Schreckhise is a fiber and sculpture artist. Her works will tour the state of Arkansas in 2021 as part of the Women to Watch in the ArtsArkansas National Committee. Free. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Fort Smith RAM, 1601 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-784-2787 fsram.org Nov. 3 Election Day Cast your vote! Information about Sebastian County voting centers can be found at the Sebastian County Clerk website, Vote from 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Election Day at any Vote Center listed. Contact any county clerk of any county for official voter information. sebastiancountyar.gov/Departments/County-Clerk Nov. 4 What's Up with B? This is a new virtual program of the Van Buren Public Library. This weekly presentation contains a variety of projects, guests, tips, cooking and library news. The library misses hosting their patrons in real classes, and this program is meant to invite the community to see and virtually visit in a fun and entertaining way. Free. 1:30-3:30 p.m. Facebook-Van Buren Public Library Nov. 4 Virtual Leaf Coasters Preserve the beautiful fall color with a leaf coaster. Ms. Reeca will show you how, online. Call the library to pick up a free DIY kit for this adult craft. Supplies limited. Free. 2-4 p.m. Facebook-Alma Public Library Nov. 5 Make It In A Minute – Rustic Pumpkin Signs Rachel and Tiffany demonstrate some fun and unique crafts – all in a one-minute video. Watch for more DIY projects and recipes in under 60 seconds from the library. Free. 2-2:10 p.m. Facebook and YouTube-Fort Smith Public Library Nov. 5 Grit Group Run The Grit Group Run is an easy out-and-back 3-mile course. The Grit Group Run welcomes walkers, runners, dogs and strollers. Questions? Phone organizer True Grit Running Co. In the event of inclement weather, the run will not be held. Free. 6-7 p.m. Fort Smith Riverfront Park, 121 Riverfront Drive, Fort Smith. 479-434-3571 fb.me/e/3gkpLTamM

CALENDAR OF EVENTS Nov. 6 PRIME: River Valley Professional Summit Third annual leadership summit features speakers and panel discussions centering on local issues and personal/professional growth. Speakers include bodybuilder and motivator John Kopta; Miles Crawford on the topic â€œCalibrate Your Careerâ€? and Stacy Mason of the Improv Lab on â€œThe Art of Effective Communication.â€? The panel discussion is â€œFort on the Rise,â€? led by Fort Smith Mayor George McGill. $10 general admission; free for current UAFS students. Register online. 8 a.m.-noon. The Bakery District, 70 South 7th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. primefortsmith.com Nov. 6 Family & Folklore Friday on Facebook Folk tales are passed down from generation to generation, through every culture. Mrs. Tammy shares some of her favorite legends online. Free. 2-4 p.m. Facebook-Alma Public Library Nov. 7 Duck Hunting 101 Online Zoom Class Learn the basics of duck hunting from duck identification to hunting regulations you need to know to be legal during this duck season. Connect on Zoom with Meeting ID: 894 3964 5167. Free. 1-3 p.m. River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith. 479-452-3993 us02web.zoom.us/j/89439645167

A SOUND FOR SORE EYES. KUAF 30

Entertainment Fort Smith

November/December 2020

Nov. 7 13th Annual Black Tie Bingo (Drive-Through Edition) The libraryâ€™s popular annual fundraiser will be held, but in an alternative style. Instead of dining inside, patrons of Black Tie Bingo will drive through the main library parking lot to support the Fort Smith Public Library endowmentâ€™s fundraiser for library books for children. Participants will pick up a take-home party, including wonderful gourmet snack boxes, gift bags, scratch-off bingo cards, a raffle and great prizes at this safe, no-contact event. Daren Bobb will again serve as Master of Ceremonies, with musical entertainment by the Don Bailey Jazz Ensemble. Tickets are $50 per person, online or by phone. Drive through from 6-7 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

5401 Phoenix Ave. | Ft. Smith November/December 2020

Entertainment Fort Smith

CALENDAR OF EVENTS Nov. 7-8 Arkansas River Holiday Market A shopping extravaganza with more than 100 booths of arts and crafts, florals, woodworking, jewelry, food items, boutiques and more. Pictures with Santa. Admission $5. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Kay Rodgers Park, 4400 Midland Boulevard, Fort Smith. 479-719-0736 arholidaymarket.com Nov. 8 Songs of Resilience – Rolling Tones in Concert The Community School of the Arts teen show choir, the Rolling Tones, presents its fall concert, Songs of Resilience. This group of 18 students ranges from grades 7-12. They will perform songs from Broadway, including Dear Evan Hansen, Hamilton, Mean Girls, Newsies and more! $10 general admission. 3-5 p.m. Community School of the Arts, St. Boniface Elementary Auditorium, 201 North 19th Street, Fort Smith. 479-434-2020 ticketstripe.com/RollingTones.

Veterans Day Ceremonies and Christmas Honors 2020 will be held differently to honor all who rest at Fort Smith National Cemetery Public health note: Organizers of these events cannot encourage the public to attend these respectful events, but want to assure everyone that appropriate observations will honor veterans. Those who wish to pay respects may always visit the Fort Smith National Cemetery. These event changes are to avoid crowds.

NOV

Veterans Day Ceremony Traditional Veterans Day ceremonies will be held at the Fort Smith National Cemetery. Health guidelines will be followed. All branches of service will be represented and honored. Any who wish to attend are asked to please carefully observe distancing between attendees.

Christmas Honors 2020 to fulfill mission with Reading of Names Each year since its inception, hundreds of volunteers have convened to unpack, transport and place a Christmas wreath on each headstone at the Fort Smith National Cemetery. The Christmas Honors committee, after sincere study, has cancelled the wreath-laying activities due to the risk of transmitting Coronavirus infection during the workshop day. But the mission of Christmas Honors will still be fulfilled. So that no veteran shall be without remembrance, the Christmas Honors committee will hold a Reading of the Names of every veteran interred at the Fort Smith National Cemetery. As each name is read, a bell will be tolled in their honor. The reading will take place in December. Philip Merry, Christmas Honors founder, explained that the date of the Reading of the Names will not be publicized. The committee extends a solemn promise to its faithful helpers and families that every single name will be read. There will be a reader in each of the seven geographic zones of the cemetery, reading simultaneously. “If it takes all day, we will read every name,” Merry said. To hundreds of volunteers who usually attend, organizers give their thanks and heartfelt wishes for a return to wreath-laying next year, all together once again. 32

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Nov. 10 Virtual Scrapbooking Phone the library to arrange to pick up a free materials kit before this online scrapbooking class. A limited number are available. Most projects require adhesive, a paper cutter or scissors. The scrapbook page theme is “thankfulness.” Free. 1:303:30 p.m. Facebook-Van Buren Public Library Nov. 10 Book Talk on Zoom The Alma Public Library is recruiting new members for a Book Club held on the virtual platform Zoom. November’s selection is "The Book of Polly" by Kathy Hepinstall. The novel follows Willow Havens, whose mother likes to chase varmints, drink margaritas and antagonize the neighbors in a small Texas town. Phone to learn how to log in. Free. 6-8 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 Nov. 10 Classic TV Trivia with Ronny Test your knowledge of classic TV trivia, live, with host Ronny. Free. 6:30-7 p.m. Facebook-Fort Smith Public Library Nov. 12 Grit Group Run Join an easy out-and-back 3-mile course every Thursday, sponsored by True Grit Running Co. All abilities are welcome including walkers, runners, dogs and strollers! If the weather’s bad, there will be no run. Free. 6-7 p.m. Fort Smith Riverfront Park, 121 Riverfront Drive, Fort Smith 479-434-3571 fb.me/e/2ZRsO1nSa. Nov. 13 RAM Invitational Submission Deadline Fort Smith Regional Art Museum's annual invitation art competition is calling for work. This year's theme is "Exploring Mindscapes: An Artist's Reflection." The isolation experienced by all during the Covid-19 pandemic and ever-present eyes of social media have caused many to reflect on personal perceptions and experiences. This year’s invitational theme evokes the concept of self-reflection in diverse media and subject matter as to include all artistic expression. Whether an installationbased work, painting, sculpture, photograph, ceramic, video or any other form, RAM wants each creative to reflect on their own experiences through visual expression. Please submit work that explores the landscape of your mind and allows others to explore with you. RAM Invitational will be on view Jan. 8-May 16. Submission guidelines are online. Free. Fort Smith Regional Art Museum, 1601 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-784-2787 fsram.org Nov. 13 Family & Folklore Friday on Facebook In November, Mrs. Tammy focuses on Native American stories, which she’ll read aloud. Free. 2-4 p.m. Facebook-Alma Public Library Nov 13-14 Van Buren Main Street Holiday Open House This weekend offers first dibs on downtown Van Buren merchants’ holiday gifts, decor and boutique clothing. The merchants will also offer snacks, sips, special sales, and give-a-ways. Horse drawn carriage rides will be available on Saturday. Merchants will stay open until 7 p.m. both nights. Historic Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. Facebook-Old Town Van Buren

CALENDAR OF EVENTS Nov. 13-14 Pilot Club Annual Pecan Sale The annual pecan sale held by the Pilot Club of Fort Smith offers a 2020 crop of fresh pecans, cashews and candies. There are also pecan logs, glazed pecans, chocolate covered pecans, cinnamon pecans and pecan clusters. Shop from your car with curb service payment and pickup. Proceeds benefit ADHD/Autism seminars, Alzheimer's local unit, Clearinghouse Meals for Kids, Huntington's Disease and other non-profits. Contact Sandee Farley, 479-462-2734, or Janie Stamps, 479-883-2360, for prices and ordering. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Woodland United Methodist Church, 7804 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-883-2360 Nov. 16 Virtual Book Club The book club will meet via ZOOM. This month, discuss "The Sweetest Hallelujah" by Elaine Hussey, a story of two different courageous women and the little girl that binds them. Contact the library for log-in details. Free. 7-9 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 Nov. 17 Geography Trivia with Ronny Test your geography skills with Geography Trivia on Facebook Live. Free. 6:30-7 p.m. Facebook-Fort Smith Public Library Nov. 18 What's Up with B? This weekly presentation has projects, guests, tips, cooking and library news. The library misses hosting their patrons in real classes, and this program will hopefully allow the community to see and virtually visit. Free. 1:30-3:30 p.m. Facebook-Van Buren Public Library Nov. 18 Book Review Online Hear about the books libraries have to offer. Mrs. Tammy reviews great reads. November’s selection is "Reading with Patrick: A Teacher, a Student, and a Lifechanging Friendship" by Michelle Kuo. Free. 2-4 p.m. Facebook-Alma Public Library Nov. 18 Leaf Frames Virtual Craft Class Learn how to make a regular frame more festive for fall. Ms. Reeca will demonstrates online. Call the library for a free DIY kit. Supplies limited. Free. 2-4 p.m. Facebook-Alma Public Library Nov. 19 Virtual Book Club Join a virtual discussion of a book of the month. Phone to sign into the meeting. November’s selection is “Just Mercy: A Story of Justice and Redemption” by Bryan Stevenson. Free. 1-3 p.m. Cedarville Public Library. 479-410-1853 Nov. 19 Virtual Card-making Class Class is held online, with free but limited kits available for pick-up in advance. You will need adhesive and either a paper cutter or ruler and scissors. Follow along as Bridgette gives a step-by-step guide to make two Christmas cards. Everyone enjoys being a recipient of a card and a beautiful homemade card is that much sweeter to receive. Free. 1-3:30 p.m. 479-474-6045 Facebook-Van Buren Public Library November/December 2020

Entertainment Fort Smith

CALENDAR OF EVENTS Nov. 19 Make It in a Minute â€“ Festive Pumpkin Pie Garland Librarians Rachel and Tiffany demonstrate a few fun and unique crafts â€“ packed into a one-minute video. Watch for more DIY projects and recipes in under 60 seconds. Free. 2-2:05 p.m. Facebook and YouTube-Fort Smith Public Library

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Nov. 19 Grit Group Run Take an easy out-and-back, 3-mile run or walk with sponsor True Grit Running Co. Walkers and runners of all abilities, dogs and strollers are welcome. Cancelled if the weather is bad. Free. 6-7 p.m. Fort Smith Riverfront Park,121 Riverfront Drive, Fort Smith 479-434-3571 fb.me/e/gl10H6LcJ. Nov. 19 Virtual Crafterworks Bridgette teaches step-by-step how to complete a home dĂŠcor Christmas project. The class is free; use your own supplies. Call or see Facebook for the supply list. Free. 6-8 p.m. Facebook-Van Buren Public Library Nov. 20 Family & Folklore Friday Folk tales are passed down from generation to generation, through every culture. In November, Mrs. Tammy focuses on Native American stories. Free. 2-4 p.m. Facebook-Alma Public Library

Nov. 21 Season Ticket Discussion: Featured Spice â€“ Berbere Expand your taste buds with a Season Ticket kit, all about culinary seasonings. This monthâ€™s featured spice is berbere. The kit includes a sample of the featured spice, a fact sheet and a recipe using the spice. Attend a virtual meeting to discuss what you made and your opinion about the spice. Pick up your kit beginning Nov. 4 from 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday at the Main Library. Supplies are limited; information on how to attend the virtual meeting is in the kit. Free. 2-3 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 Nov. 24 Dutch Oven Online Zoom Series Part 3 This monthâ€™s Zoom series by the River Valley Nature Center will continue with a classic dessert. Instructors will put together a nice cobbler and show the end result. Join in and donâ€™t forget to get the ice cream. Register in advance for these meetings with the Zoom Meeting ID: 883 2670 5971. Free. 6-8 p.m. River Valley Nature Center. 479-452-3993 Nov. 25 Off the Cuff Cooking: Pumpkin Recipes! Tired of pumpkin spice yet? No way! Watch Rachel and Jodie try to follow recipes from cookbooks you can check out from your library. In this episode, join the hosts as they make yummy pumpkin recipes. Free. 10-10:15 a.m. Facebook and YouTube-Fort Smith Public Library Nov. 25 What's Up with B? Virtually visit the Van Buren Library in an online presentation with a variety of projects, guests, tips, cooking and library news. Itâ€™s a way to keep in touch with the library community. Free. 1:30-3:30 p.m. Facebook-Van Buren Public Library

1601 ROGERS AVENUE FORT SMITH, AR 72901 479.784.2787 â€˘ FSRAM.ORG 34

Entertainment Fort Smith

November/December 2020

Nov. 25 Virtual Recipe Club â€“ Thanksgiving Side Dishes Whatâ€™s your favorite Thanksgiving side dish? Library staff share some their best recipes and comment on the recipes you share with them. Bonus points if you have photos! Free. 2-4 p.m. Facebook-Alma Public Library Nov. 26 Mercy Thanksgiving Day Turkey Run Run to earn your Turkey Day indulgence at this 5K run and 10K race. Register online by noon Nov. 16 for a T-shirt. Packet pickup 5 p.m. Nov. 25, Mercy Fitness Center or at the race site before start time. Try out new 5K and 10K courses starting at 7000 Taylor Avenue. $25 entry 5K; $25 10K. 8 a.m. start for both races. 7000 Taylor Avenue, Chaffee Crossing, Fort Smith. runsignup.com/Race/AR/FortSmith/MercyTurkeyRun

CALENDAR OF EVENTS Nov. 28 Small Business Saturday in Van Buren Spend the day supporting local small businesses while they offer deep discounts and door busters. Stay all day and enjoy the city’s new light displays in the parks after dark! Historic Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. Facebook-Old Town Van Buren Nov. 30-Dec. 31 Perfect Gift: Library Books for Christmas Fundraiser Honor someone special by donating to the Fort Smith Public Library’s Library Books for Christmas fundraiser. Visit the library website to choose a book to add to the library’s collection in honor or memory of someone special. Children’s books are a $10 donation; adult books are a $25 donation. Proceeds are used for the purchase of new library materials. Free. fortsmithlibrary.org Dec. 3 Make It in a Minute Rachel and Tiffany demonstrate fun and unique crafts, packed into a one-minute video! Watch for more DIY projects and recipes in under 60 seconds. Free. 2-2:10 p.m. Facebook and YouTube-Fort Smith Public Library

A vivid and intimate photographic portrait of one of the 20th century’s most iconic artists: the consummate jazz and blues singer Billie Holiday (1915 –1959).

September 4 – December 27, 2020

This exhibit made possible in part by a grant from the Anna Cohn Community Fund

BILLIE HOLIDAY AT SUGAR HILL: PHOTOGRAPHS BY JERRY DANTZIC is an exhibition organized for travel by the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service in collaboration with the Jerry Dantzic Archives. All photographs © 2018 Jerry Dantzic / Jerry Dantzic Archives, All rights reserved.

Sponsored by: The Fort Smith Riverfront Blues Society —— The Fort Smith Association of Professional Landmen

Lincoln High School Alumni Association

1601 ROGERS AVENUE FORT SMITH, AR 72901 479.784.2787 • FSRAM.ORG 36

Entertainment Fort Smith

November/December 2020

Dec. 5 Fort Smith Symphony: Tis the Season Hear season favorites such as “Sleigh Ride,” “A Christmas Festival” and many more traditional holiday selections. The symphony will be performing two onehour concerts and designated, separated seating of the audience will allow for socially distant enjoyment and precaution, following health department guidelines. Patrons and musicians will be masked. 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. ArcBest Performing Arts Center, 55 South 7th Street, Fort Smith. Phone for available tickets. 479-452-7575 fortsmithsymphony.org Dec 5 3rd Annual Jingle & Mingle on Main This day brings a vintage inspired, old town Christmas-themed experience to Van Buren. Enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides and carolers wearing period clothing, with a backdrop of the beautiful 100 year old buildings of Main Street. The street will be closed to through traffic. Visiting each merchant will register you for a Main Street shopping spree! After a day of shopping, enjoy the new light displays at Van Buren’s “Christmas at the Parks.” 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Van Buren, Ark.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS Dec. 7-13 Friends of the Library Vintage & Rare Book Sale Held completely online this year. Just in time for the holidays, book lovers will find a broad assortment in this special sale including rare, vintage and valuable titles. A range of topics are represented including art, religion, history and much more with publication dates ranging from the 1800s to the present. A list of the books will be on the library’s website by Dec. 4. Proceeds from the sale benefit the Friends of the Library. Free. 9 a.m.-noon. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org Dec 12 Main Street Second Saturday December’s Second Saturday will include snacks, sipn-shops, door prizes, live music, and lots of last minute gifts! Enjoy evening shopping through 7 p.m. Horse drawn carriage rides will also be available. Downtown Van Buren, Ark. Dec. 11 “Hamilton” Trivia with Ronny Are you a true “Hamilton” fan? Don’t throw away your shot, join a Facebook Live throwdown to prove your knowledge. Free. 6:30-7 p.m. Facebook-Fort Smith Public Library

Dec. 11-13 Western Arkansas Ballet’s The Nutcracker The 35th annual production of The Nutcracker will present this timeless, classic ballet with a cast of more than 100 children and adults. WAB’s own Brianna Hagar and Jared Mesa will dance the roles of the Sugar Plum Fairy and Cavalier this year. Tickets $25 adults; $15 children and students with a valid student ID. Available 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday only at WAB, 4701 Grand Avenue or by phone. Performances are at 7 p.m. Dec. 11; 7 p.m. Dec. 12. 2 p.m. Dec. 13. ArcBest Performing Arts Center, 55 South 7th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-785-0152 waballet.org Dec.13 18th Annual Fort Smith Public Library Holiday Open House Drive-Through A holiday tradition at the Fort Smith Public Library will be a drive-through this year. Drive through the main library with your family to pick up a DIY Holiday Open House kit, featuring treats, crafts and more holiday fun for both kids and adults from the library staff. Free. 1-5 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-783-0229 November/December 2020

Entertainment Fort Smith

CALENDAR OF EVENTS Dec. 14 3-D Reindeer Craft Get into the holiday spirit to make a 3-D Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer craft! Beginning Dec. 14, craft kits will be available for pickup at the Main Library, while supplies last. Scan the included QR code or see the library’s YouTube channel for instructions. It is not necessary to schedule an appointment to pick up a craft bag. Free. Pick up 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday-Friday. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-783-0229 YouTube-Fort Smith Public Library Dec. 15 Dutch Oven Online Zoom Series Part 4 Learn to cook a more intense meal and use several ovens to complete this mini-series. If weather permits, the instructors and home watchers can build a fire to cook in the great outdoors. Register in advance for these meetings with the Zoom Meeting ID: 883 2670 5971. Free. 6-8 p.m. River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-3993 Dec. 16 Off the Cuff Cooking with Rachel and Jodie: Christmas Creations! Rachel and Jodie follow recipes from cookbooks you can check out, too. Get in the holiday spirit! Watch the hosts online as they make Christmas candies and craft a cute vintage-inspired ornament. Free. 10-10:10 a.m. Facebook and YouTube-Fort Smith Public Library Dec. 17 Make It in a Minute Are you feeling crafty? Librarians show fun and unique crafts, made in a minute. Watch for more DIY projects and recipes in under 60 seconds. Free. 2-2:10 p.m. Facebook and YouTube-Fort Smith Public Library Dec. 19 Season Ticket Discussion: Featured Spice Chinese Five Spice Expand your taste buds with a Season Ticket kit. This month’s featured spice is Chinese Five Spice. A free kit includes a sample of the featured spice, a fact sheet and a recipe using that spice. Attend a virtual meeting to discuss what you made and your opinion about the spice. Pick up your Season Ticket kit beginning Dec. 2 from 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Supplies are limited; information on how to attend the virtual meeting is included in the kit. Free. 2-3 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org Dec. 22 Trivia Night with Ronny Play a few fun rounds of general trivia online! Free. 6:30-7 p.m. Facebook-Fort Smith Public Library Dec. 31 Noon Year’s Eve Ring in the “noon” year with the library! Pick up a party bag from the main library and tune into the library’s YouTube channel or Facebook page to party along with your favorite librarians! Free. 11:45 a.m.noon. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org Check listed contacts and websites for changes or cancellations to these events. Submit changes of events in writing, to lynnwasson@efortsmith.com. 38

Entertainment Fort Smith

November/December 2020