Entertainment Fort Smith Magazine - Christmas - December 2020

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EDITOR’S NOTES

Celebrate these holidays of promise and renewal

Editorial Staff LYNN WASSON Editor & Publisher lynnwasson@efortsmith.com DONNA PAYNE Senior Editor donnapayne@efortsmith.com Contributing Writers BOB ROBINSON Contributing Photographers BOB ROBINSON McFARLAND PHOTOGRAPHY PHOTOS COURTESY OF MEMBERS of FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH Interactive Story Editor JOE WASSON joe@efortsmith.com

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

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

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Entertainment Fort Smith

December 2020

Merry Christmas, Happy New Year!

So much is different this holiday season, but we have a magazine full of evidence that our community of readers will be making holidays as merry and bright as they can, even though they’ll do a lot of it differently.

There’s hopeful promise at this time, when vaccines to eliminate a dangerous pandemic are said to be distributed in coming months. Think of the renewal coming in this new year as life begins to return to safer interactions among friends, families and all fellow humans!

Until then, let’s be patient and kind and careful for one another’s sake.

More than ever, this is a time to care for your neighbor. Please choose one of the many invitations within these pages asking you to give to help others, be it with food, gifts, donations or volunteer service.

We give gratitude and respect to those who are bearing the most peril at this time – the medical field, the emergency response services, law enforcement, educators and essential workers. Recognize people who work in public or in workplaces where they have more risk of exposure to illness, with your spoken thanks and cooperation, please. Wear your masks and smile with your eyes.

As we prepared this issue, we couldn’t help but miss the traditional annual holiday events we took for granted all our lives – the Fort Smith Christmas Parade, visits with Santa at so many places, holiday parties, the Creekmore Park holiday train, the Polar Express children’s party at the Fort Smith Trolley Museum and dozens more. With good fortune, next year we will return to enjoying all those celebrations.

This season, we’ll appreciate the ingenuity of communities such as Greenwood, where they have decided to park the Christmas parade and let cars drive around the floats, instead. Its Bell Park holiday lighting can still be enjoyed from your car, even as some of its usual amenities are paused for one year. Santa pictures and other fun will return next year, we know.

Van Buren has upped our holiday spirits with a new drive-through lighting display in its city park and sparkling lights in downtown’s handsome Freedom Park. So what if we have to enjoy it from the car? It’s warm inside and you can sing or listen to holiday music.

We enjoyed speaking with only a few members of Fort Smith First Methodist Church about the positive strategies the congregation has learned and used to remain a close-knit and functioning church, in months it spent mostly outside the building.

While I’m sure we didn’t learn but a small portion of the good things going on there, talking with a congregants and church clergy was uplifting and encouraging to hear.

We know this church is much like many, many other churches of all faiths who have discovered new ways to connect in spirit, if not in person as they would prefer. Good for all of you who have stretched and invented new fellowship and ways to worship together.

We also appreciate our guide to adventure, guest writer Bob Robinson, for reminding us that the gorgeous great outdoors of Arkansas is available to all of us. He recounts an exploration of the state’s new Arkansas High Country Route, a bike (or motorcycle or car) route to follow into the forests and backroads where the fresh air is free and healthy to breathe.

Enjoy the holiday baking recipes. I wouldn’t mind finding some of these delicious treats under my tree!

Thanks to you, readers, for flexing to read Entertainment Fort Smith as a digital issue, online. We prefer our classic print issue, but publishing here online has its good features, too.

It’s available at your fingertips, on your own device, and it allows us to link from the page you view to the web presence of advertisers – and other convenient sources of information.

Please take your gift shopping to our underwriters, the locally owned businesses and services found here within this issue. They are our friends and neighbors and their small businesses, restaurants and services are what makes living here unique. We must support them to keep them! Here in our pages are the finest and most community-minded businesses that help give our Fort Smith its distinct character and quality of life. Shop small!

Happy, healthy holidays to everyone from all of us at Entertainment Fort Smith!

– Lynn Wasson, Donna Payne, Linda Gilham, Julie Hamilton, Charlie Hubbard, and also our creative contributors and our ace delivery staff.

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CONTENTS features

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Old church, new spirit

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High Country Adventure

December 2020 digital issue

“The Church Has Left the Building” Fort Smith First United Methodist Church, just like all other churches, had to adjust to no-attendance and limited-attendance throughout 2020. But it is finding novel ways to connect its congregants and continuously renew and sustain their faith.

By Lynn Wasson Adventure Cycling on state’s new Arkansas High Country Route Cyclist Bob Robinson tells of the allure and enjoyment of a new cycling route mapped over Arkansas’ remote, forested roads.

Tim Jacobsen, new convention and visitors chief, is ready From the Lake of the Ozarks, a tourism pro relocates to Fort Smith because of the potential he sees to increase tourism and travel here.

Give Christmas joy to young and old Learn how to make holidays happier for the residents of local nursing homes and youngsters whose families need help with toys and clothing.

The light we need this winter comes from Christmas light trails Many traditional celebrations will be missed without parties, parades and other holiday events. But from your car, you can tour light displays.

Hometown Holiday A Gallery of Gifts Pages and pages of local goods offered by local merchants.

Shop with hometown spirit!

departments

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WHAT’S COOKING Recipes for holiday baking, whether you enjoy a cookie exchange, giving treats in tins or just noshing up some goodies at home under your own tree.

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Tradition Continues

Entertainment Fort Smith

December 2020

EVENTS FOR KIDS God bless them, every one – librarians continue to read stories, lead craft classes, show STEM projects and more to engage children online with their original and imaginative short videos.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS A reverse parade, the holiday symphony concert and other, adaptive celebrations show the community holds Christmas spirit in a changed time.

o n t h e c ove r :

Holiday light displays twinkle at the Garrison Avenue gateway to downtown Fort Smith.

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When First United Methodist Church left the building, its members rewired and refreshed their faith Spending much of 2020 out of church taught this congregation new ways of worship Who, what, how, when or why is “church” if it isn’t a gathering of its new, smaller groups. They served in new kinds of missions. And despite all congregation, in its traditional place, for worship services? these obstacles, the clergy and members said they found their church’s spirit As were many American places of worship, Fort Smith First United was being sustained and even refreshed.

Methodist Church had to answer those questions for much of this year, when state health guidelines Re-wiring to make new connections recommended against holding large indoor The Rev. Roy Beth Kelley, executive associate meetings, from late spring to late September. pastor, said, “Our awakening has been that people By creating, learning and even embracing new are going to have to take responsibility for their ways to commune, this close-knit, active church own faith.” She and the pastoral team (senior has found a way to carry on, with faith, love and a pastor the Rev. Bud Reeves and the reverends lot of digital devices.

Janice Sudbrink and DeeDee Autry) worried if First Methodist was not in the practice of they could do enough to minister well to all 500broadcasting services as many churches have been, plus congregants. But they saw church members long before the 2020 pandemic. Since the rise up to help in ways Kelley calls amazing. invention of radio, then television, followed by What she describes is the church rewiring new “streaming” and live internet productions, many circuits and new connections, literally and churches produce sophisticated programs that figuratively. Although no one prefers limitedcongregants hear or watch from home. attendance or no-attendance services, many have For this church, however, in-person worship adapted to watching services on Facebook Live was its chosen style. When the need came to pause and meetings on such platforms as Zoom. attendance, FUMC responded with a campaign All the worship leaders, Kelley included, grew called “The Church Has Left the Building.” more accustomed to speaking through a camera.

Rev. Roy Beth Kelley, executive associate pastor They printed it on T-shirts. They learned to “I am used to seeing feedback in people’s watch worship services live, online, in an empty sanctuary. Without being expressions,” she said, “but even when no people are there, we can feel the able to meet in their strongly bonded Sunday school classes, they formed holy spirit. I know that God can work in ways we don’t understand.”

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Members learned to check in by typing that they are watching. Some act as “greeters” to invite members to say they are present online.

There are classic and contemporary-styled worship services. Some fans of one or the other are attending both kinds, she said.

Still, “the scariest thing was to think someone might be falling through the cracks,” Kelley said. An effort is made to telephone every church member, to hear their voices and learn of any needs for prayer or help of any kind.

Sermons and other reading materials can mailed if requested. The phone outreach has been not a chore but a joy, one volunteer said.

Kelley praised members who visited and patiently taught others how to use smartphones, tablets or computers to watch services online, or to join the church’s social media small groups or attend online classes and meetings.

There’s been a lot of tech learning going on for everyone, she said, highly praising the staff ’s communication director and its media specialist for helping to produce videos and provide even more messages, pictures, documents and news-filled church bulletins online.

The church gets a kick from Drucilla Hughart, an elder church member who was taught – and mastered! – a new style of communication. She wrote this on her social media page: "Never in my wildest dreams would I have ever thought that I would be attending a church service while sitting on my patio. I have just enjoyed a sermon from the First Methodist Church while enjoying a cool ... morning breeze and the sound of birds singing. All is GREAT in God's world. I can't thank Connie enough for putting me on Facebook. I heard the sermon without any problem. I guess you really do not get too old to learn. When I was a little girl I thought no one could beat a radio – they were magic. Here I sit ninety years later with a little tablet in my hand that can take me all over the world. God really is GREAT!" “We say if Drucilla can do it, you can do it!” Kelley said.

Hughart, a former newspaper columnist, currently has more than 600 Facebook “friends.”

As an alternative to Facebook, the church also uploads its video worship services to YouTube for those who do not want to join social media.

When guidelines allowed phased re-opening so that congregants could attend again in small numbers, the church made a lively video to prepare them for careful new mask-wearing and social-distancing procedures.

Missions are adapted and Sunday school reinvented, temporarily FUMC members have always been busy outside the church and are often involved in providing food, according to Elizabeth Thames, the church’s adult discipleship leader. Some changes were necessary but a myriad of missions against hunger carries on, she said. Although a “Last Sunday” community meal program had to pause from cooking at the church and inviting all in need to dine together, the volunteers responded by packing and delivering meals, she said, including to people living on the street.

Church volunteers provide food for a Fort Smith Police Department meal delivery program. And another program for which volunteers make casseroles, divided by portions, has supplied 3,825 meals, she noted.

There are more than a dozen adult Sunday school classes at FUMC, known for its strong bonds among loyal class members. Being unable to meet in person for Sunday school has been terribly missed, Thames noted.

When weather permitted, the Chapel Class continued to meet outdoors on the church campus, with masks and spread-apart seating.

The Cornerstone and Roundtable classes chose to meet online using Zoom while the church buildings were closed, Thames said, with resources 8

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The phrase comes from the Elvis fandom, but church members took this slogan sincerely, finding ways to keep on with the works and spirit of the congregation while it was separated.

Drucilla Hughart laughs in delight at learning to use social media to connect with her church family.

Youth volunteers packing groceries.

such as study plans and books provided by the church.

The Rev. Bud Reeves set up a challenge for Thames, with the help of others, to encourage the Sunday school classes to temporarily form many smaller groups that could meet in person, at homes and backyards, to study and pray together. He set the challenge at 100 small groups and said he would kiss a goat if the goal were reached. He had to make good, she laughed, and did plant a smooch on a goat named Oreo. The creation of groups with a handful of people temporarily remixed Sunday school’s class members and ages, which Thames said has created new fellowship and interesting perspectives.

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CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) for foster children and helping the Good Samaritan Clinic provide flu shots. An unexpected crisis was avoided when a grant helped to provide child care for staff at Methodist Village Senior Living, a necessity to keep staff able to come to work to protect and care for residents.

A grocery bag of staples for one of FUMC’s feeding missions.

This private Facebook group for members is busy with news and plans, prayer requests and smiles.

Young adults of the church meeting by Zoom.

Communion taken at home, blessed by the Rev. Bud Reeves (onscreen).

Generous giving did not falter For a second year, 2020 included a goal of raising $100,000 for the purpose of giving community grants, through the church’s foundation. Even during this difficult time, the goal was met and the foundation’s director, Patti Cox, was pleased to report that the foundation board was able to make grants to 17 different community projects, all who do meaningful good in their own ways, she said.

“The grants ranged from large to small,” she explained, according to need, but all were significant to the recipients. They included buying a commercial freezer to assist the Antioch for Youth & Family’s food program, support to

Music ministry plays on in a changed church year First Methodist is known for its exceptional musicality and hearing its full choir and instrumentalists perform during worship has been sorely missed by congregants. Due to the versatility and dedication of those in its music ministry, beautiful music has continued throughout this year, but differently.

For its contemporary worship services, contemporary music director Trevor Hardcastle has spaced out his instrumentalists and singers to safe distances and, doubling as church’s media specialist, has adapted the sound system for a pleasing mix when heard online.

Nancy Vernon, the church’s beloved organist and director of music ministries, has made similar adjustments so there has continued to be choral song and instrumental music for the classic service. A very limited number of singers, spaced safely distanced from one another, have performed for the traditional worship services.

“We have to be separated and the choir members sing in masks,” she said.

She is gratified to receive positive feedback from church members for their performances that are mostly heard by a remote congregation.

At 11 a.m. Dec. 20, the special service called “Lessons and Carols” will be presented, Vernon said. Even with a limited audience, she is happy this traditional, musical celebration will be performed in this Advent season. Instead of the full choir, the music will be sung by soloists and trios, she said.

Vernon speaks for many when she said she will be “so grateful” when all the church can fully return to worship and enjoy music together.

Singing praise wherever you are One choir member who keenly misses the glorious sound and experience of singing is Kelly Newton. He also is bereft about this silent year for the Fort Smith Chorale, which includes many FUMC choir members, as well.

Newton has loved singing in choir for more than 40 years, he said.

It’s a huge joy in his life. “I can’t wait to be back to normal,” he said. “I want to be with my friends, my people in choir.” He has learned to appreciate “church by internet” and he sings along, at home. But not only at home.

Recently, while following a worship service on his smartphone, he had an urgent need to run to the hardware store.

“I was walking through Yeagers,” he said, “streaming church on my phone and I was sort of noticing people looking at me funny as I went along, holding my phone out in front of me. The service came to a song that I have sung since 1979 and I started kind of ... singing along.”

He realized a woman was standing near him who was clearly noticing him.

“The woman came by me and said, ‘You are one happy man!’ and I tried to show her that church was playing on my phone. She just said, ‘That’s sweet, honey.’ She probably thought I was nuts,” he said, laughing at himself.

“I really didn’t care,” Newton added. “I need it.”

Prayers All religions of humanity continue to pray for successful vaccines to defeat the dangerous coronavirus, including constant prayer by members of FUMC. But they have learned and shown, as have many other congregations, that their church does not reside inside a building, but in their hearts.

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Adventure on Arkansas’ new

High Country Route

Cyclists have a new opportunity to experience Arkansas’ scenic countryside while perched atop the seat of their bicycle.

The Arkansas High Country Route (AHCR) is a 1,172-mile course that guides cyclists through the spectacular scenery in both the Ozark and Ouachita mountain ranges. Following a mix of roughly half gravel and half pavement, the route snakes its way through the bucolic backcountry of the state, exposing cyclists to the world of rural life in the Natural State.

The idea for AHCR originated when Arkansan Chuck Campbell was reviewing the continental map of Adventure Cycling Association’s (ACA) bicycle routes. He noticed a huge gap, which was the state of Arkansas, where no touring routes existed.

Clicking on the “Contact Us” link on ACA’s website, he called to asked if they would be interested in a route in Arkansas.

To his surprise, they instructed him to send them an outline of a route. With this, Campbell set to work creating the AHCR. Using Campbell’s initial route as a starting point, the ACA team worked with him to arrive at its current design. His dream became a reality in 2019.

STORY & PHOTOS BY BOB ROBINSON

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I first heard about the AHCR when riding with Chuck Campbell on a gravel grinder bike ride. When I returned home and looked it up, I thought this was something I would be interested in riding someday.

When Bill Hanna and I recently finished a gravel bicycle ride, and he said he would like to do a multi-day ride, I said, “I think I might have something.”

Hanna offered the use of his sprinter van as the shuttle vehicle. Since it was equipped for three more bikes, we invited mutual friend David Hedges. I added two mountain bike buds, Alton Branum and Johnny Newell. Another cycling friend, Cary Berdan, recovering from a mountain bike injury, volunteered as shuttle driver.

Using the ACA (adventurecycling.org) hardcopy map, I selected our route. The hardcopy map is a great guide, illustrating the course plus turnby-turn directions, towns, camping, lodging, food, bike shops and other points of interest.

During the ride itself, their GPX Data app proved more helpful. It provides not only all the above features but also your navigation location as you progress along the route. All a rider has to do is follow their blue navigation dot.

More than 6 inches of rain pelted our ACHR route during the three days preceding our departure, with more forecast on our initial day’s ride.

Not to be deterred by a “little” moisture, with temperatures in the low 40s and steady rainfall, at 7 a.m., our crew was busy stowing our massive amount of gear in the back of Hanna’s van.

The section of the AHCR I had chosen begins just north of Russellville. On the drive down I-40, the wiper blades labored to keep the windshield clear. As we exited the interstate onto Arkansas 333, Hanna was able to switch them down a notch. By the time we reached the gravel road that would be our start point, the rain was a light mist.

As autumn leaves still clung to branches of trees, they created a vibrant canopy of color, while fallen leaves blanketed our path with bright red and yellow. I was in awe of the enchanting natural wonderland we Arkansans reside and recreate within.

Shortly into the ride, we began the first of the many long, mouth-drooling and snot-slinging climbs that cyclists endure while ascending steep mountainsides on chilly mornings. I motivated myself by knowing at the top, the reward would be panoramic views of surrounding hollows and distant mountaintops.

Riding across the backbone of Pilot Rock Mountain, the navigation app flagged the Arkansas Sphinx. Through dense trees, we were able to see this unique natural sculpture.

The AHCR offers routes through serenely remote forest roads and iconic state landmarks such as the Arkansas Sphinx rock formation and Hawksbill Crag in the Ozark National Forest.

At the end of a 50-plus mile day, with more than 5200 feet of elevation, our weary group pedaled up to Oark General Store for a well-deserved thick juicy burger, french fries and a craft beer.

With full stomachs, we continued another five miles up Arbaugh Mountain Road, where we pitched our tents in an inviting clearing.

Under sunny skies the next day, we pushed on through the Buffalo River area, pausing for hikes to Lichen Falls and Hawksbill Crag. The long, steep climb out of Ponca on Arkansas 43 made me question these things I do for fun. But blasting down the long descent on the gravel Compton Road, dropping down alongside the Buffalo River, reminded me why I do this.

At the end of another 50-plus mile day, again with more than 5200 feet of elevation, we ate a hearty feast at Jasper’s Ozark Café.

The final two days were filled with more beautiful scenery, quaint small towns and challenging

climbs. The friendly people we encountered along the route added to the experience. As I waited to make sure no one missed a particularly tricky turn, an older man stopped his battered pickup and asked me if I was lost. This proved to be a segue into a very interesting conversation.

The support of the local communities for the AHCR was amazing. Daryl Threat, executive director of the Searcy County Chamber of Commerce, literally opened the doors of their community center when I called. Showers, a place to pitch our tents, and even an offer of breakfast.

Just call them at 870-448-2557, and they will take care of your touring needs.

It was a great ride. I look forward to biting off a chunk of the Ouachita section of the AHCR on a future adventure.

Although the AHCR route was created as a bicycle tour, the route would make an enjoyable drive for motorcycles or automobiles.

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Tim Jacobsen is ready for a challenge Experienced, new executive director of Fort Smith Convention & Visitors Bureau likes what he sees here One of the best editorial moves we made in the 20 years of publishing this magazine was to meet and write about Claude Legris, then the incoming head of the Fort Smith Convention & Visitors Bureau, after his hiring but before he even moved here. A great collaboration was born. So we’re repeating that idea: We phoned Tim Jacobsen, who will be at that post in late December at Miss Laura’s Visitor Center, to welcome him into that important role of inviting the world to Fort Smith. He’s ready!

How do you get a man away from one the most popular recreational lakes in the country – Missouri’s Lake of the Ozarks – to represent Fort Smith tourism, instead? According to him, you offer him a challenge.

“I love challenges,” said Jacobsen, who has been director of the CVB of the Lake of the Ozarks for 15 years. Recruited to apply for the job last held by retiring, successful executive director of the Fort Smith CVB, Claude Legris, Jacobsen was not actually seeking a career change, he said.

But after he met board members of the Fort Smith Advertising & Promotion Commission, headed by Mayor George McGill, his professional marketing instincts were awakened. He sees Fort Smith as a destination with a wealth of appeal, but with strong potential for more growth of tourism and conventions. And he knew he had the kinds of professional experience to help to achieve that increase. “I’m coming here because I’m excited about what I might be able to accomplish,” Jacobsen said. “I like working together to make things happen.”

He emphasizes “together.” At Lake of the Ozarks, he took the view that almost everyone from the hospitality industry to residents, working cooperatively, will help to create a successful travel destination.

Jacobsen teamed with his local community and at state level, building economic growth through positions such as president of Missouri Association of Convention & Visitor Bureaus, board member of Missouri Travel Council, president of the Lake of the Ozarks Regional Economic Development Council, president of the Lake of the Ozarks Bikefest, cochair of the Lake of the Ozarks Air Show, chair of Lake of the Ozarks Spring & Fall Harbor Hops and Lake of the Ozarks Eagle Days.

Beyond the formal interview, Jacobsen did research for his own benefit by talking with everyone he met in Fort Smith from “CEOs to general managers to furniture salespeople to servers” he said. He found, city-wide, an attitude of passion toward our hometown, along with hope and vision.

People he met here believe in the appeal of local recreation, its cultural events and are proud of its genuine historical significance, he noticed.

He agrees with them and said he can’t wait to meet more “stakeholders” in area tourism and hospitality, to learn more of what they present in their 12

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businesses or projects. Then, he wants to find ways to draw them all together to work toward mutual vision and actions, he said.

One thing that doesn’t daunt him is the pandemic. While taking its impacts seriously, Jacobsen believes it’s time to understand, analyze and act according to the changes it has wrought in travel and tourism. “There's so many unknowns with COVID - it's fluid,” he observed. “But that does not mean you sit back and wait for it to be over with,” he said emphatically.

“This has changed the overall picture of how people are traveling right now. Look at the number of people that aren't going to be going on cruises; that aren't going to be flying. They’re still going to travel – but they’re going to be driving.” Upscale travelers also spend more and stay longer, he found.

“The demographic (of visitors)] is going to be higher because you have people who were going all over the world,” he said. Relatively inexpensive market research he conducted at Lake of the Ozarks this year identified this different kind of visitor, he said. Fort Smith and Arkansas, especially, have what research found those travelers wanted – many appealing outdoor activities and attractions.

“Fort Smith is a drive market. You're so close to a major percentage of population in cities like Dallas, Kansas City and others who are not necessarily familiar with you.” Jacobsen intends to aim at them quickly.

He also predicts increased convention and group travel later in the year, he said. He has experience in identifying and landing fresh kinds of group travel – groups that can be booked directly in addition to those found through professional event planners and travel conventions.

Jacobsen knows many tools he is eager to deploy to bring more people to enjoy Fort Smith, which impressed him with its 1,000 quality hotel rooms within two miles of its convention center. “But they don’t buy for rooms and heads and beds,” he said of conventions and visitors, “they buy experience – and Fort Smith has it.” Jacobsen is ready to market Fort Smith’s appeal widely, while working closely with all of the tourism and hospitality sector and the community to encourage more growth.

Want to make friends? Point him toward the best local fun he and his 10-year-old daughter can have when she visits. He’s an adoring dad, too.

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GIVE WITH

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 drivethrough 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

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. 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.

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.

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 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.

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. From Dec. 1-16, other drop-off locations are downtown and Central Mall First National Bank lobbies, all Simmons Banks locations, Hampton Inn, Van Buren and Spirit 106.3 Radio.

Salvation Army Angel Tree Christmas gift drive for children is open through Dec. 4 Red Kettle bell ringers will take donations through Dec. 24 at local businesses Donors who like to select an anonymous child and fulfill his or her wish list by shopping for clothing and toys can take tags from Angel Trees at Walmart stores and Central Mall this year.

The gifts must be returned by Dec. 4 to the Salvation Army building at 301 North 6th Street, Fort Smith.

In a year of record need, the Salvation Army also invites donors to contribute to its Red Kettles or give directly, online.

Every Angel Tree family also receives a food box. Donors may give only food to help this program prepare a box for every family. Each box is meant to include these groceries: 6 cans of veggies 2 cans of fruit 2 boxes of mac & cheese 1 can of yams 2 boxes of muffin mix Bag or box of rice Cranberry sauce or cranberries Gravy mix Volunteer bell ringers are welcome. Contact the Salvation Army of Fort Smith by calling 479To fill the Angel Tree Food Boxes, also take 783-6145 or visit registertoring.com. Groups and individuals are welcome for opportunities in items to 301 North 6th Street by Dec. 4.

Fort Smith, Van Buren, Greenwood, Alma and Sallisaw through the online form.

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Light It Up Courthouse in Paris Thanks to Arkansas' mild climate, you’ll never find a shortage of winter attractions. That’s especially true during the holidays when the Arkansas Trail of Holiday Lights glistens across the state. Tourism industry partners are making sure events follow strict guidelines to help keep you and your family safe. Visit Arkansas.com and click Trail of Holiday Lights.

Garven Gardens, Hot Springs

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North Forest Lights, Bentonville

Arlington Lane, Hot Springs

Courthouse in Fayetteville

Harrison Courthouse

Benton Courthouse

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Gift Guide

Exclusively available at Neumeier Nursery & Greenhouses, Susan Taylor watercolor Christmas cards.

Black leather motorcycle riding chaps and jacket from Designer Again.

Recliners of all shapes and sizes in stock and ready for pick up or deliver from Mike’s Furniture.

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Gift Guide Red and black plaid slip-on sneakers from Firefly Boutique & Gifts.

Diamond studs in half-carat and one carat and a selection of cuts from Diamond Center.

Matrix total results Brass Off found at Vanity Calls Hair Salon.

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Entertainment Fort Smith

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Gift Guide

Nakatomi Christmas party and We Had Lights First Hanukkah-themed sunnies found at True Grit Running Co.

New glass, tile and fabric choices at D&D Floor Covering.

Handpainted coasters available at Fort Smith Regional Art Museum.

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Entertainment Fort Smith

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December 2020

Entertainment Fort Smith

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Gift Guide

A to Z Variety has a large selection of Christmas tabletop decor.

Climb high with a gift certificate from Vertical Horizons.

PerfectDry Lux, the perfect gift for anyone who wears hearing aids, available at Center for Hearing.

TheraRx anti-bacterial scalp and skin wash

by MEDIceuticals from Salon Elements.

Stutzman’s Pantry homemade jellies and jams from Paul’s Meat Market.

Great selection of champagnes for the holidays found at In Good Spirits.

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Gift Guide Aveda invati products for thicker hair available at Metropolis Hair Studio.

Cable knit sweater, jeans, fashion sunnies and necklace from OhSoBoho.

Engagement rings from the Forever Mark Black Diamond Collection found at Newton’s Jewelers.

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Gift Guide

Scented candles by Betty Rocker and Elf in the Glen; Old Fort beard oil and Big Cat soap, all carried

by Olen & Co. Market.

Over-sized sweater, C.C beanie, snakeskin leggings and side-zip booties from Heidi’s Way Boutique.

Tom Ford designer sunglasses available at the offices of Dr. Steven B. Stiles, Eye Group.

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WHAT’S COOKING

Cookies 1 box red velvet cake mix 3 large eggs 1/2 cup vegetable oil 1/2 cup water Frosting 4 sticks salted butter, slightly softened 2/3 cup heavy cream 2 tsp. vanilla extract 7 cups powdered sugar 5 candy canes, crushed Chocolate Coating: 2 cups semi sweet chocolate chips 5 tbsp. vegetable oil Prepare cookies: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.

In the bowl of a mixer, combine cake mix,

eggs, oil and water. Mix on medium low speed until combined. Place small spoonfuls of batter (I used a small spoon) on lined baking sheet, several inches apart — they spread a lot! Bake for about 7 minutes, until edges are set and centers spring back when lightly touched. Remove from oven and let cool on baking sheet for a few minutes. Remove to wire rack to finish cooling.

Prepare frosting: In the bowl of your mixer, beat butter, cream and vanilla on medium low until combined. Slowly add powdered sugar until just barely mixed in. Increase mixer speed to high and beat for a minute and a half, until smooth and fluffy. Test the frosting with a spoon -- it it's too thick to pipe, add cream, one tablespoon at a time, until it's thin enough to pipe but thick enough to hold it's shape. Fold

in candy pieces and fill a piping bag fitted with a large round tip (alternately, you can use a resealable sandwich bag with the corner snipped off).

Pipe frosting on completely cooled cookies.

Place frosted cookies on a large baking sheet and refrigerate for one hour.

Prepare chocolate coating: In a microwave safe bowl, heat chocolate chips and vegetable oil in the microwave, stopping to stir thoroughly every 30 seconds. Repeat process until chocolate is melted and smooth. Dip cookie frosting in chocolate, holding upside down for a moment to allow excess to drip off. Sprinkle with additional crushed candy, if desired.

Allow chocolate to set completely before serving.

Store cookies in the refrigerator.

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WHAT’S COOKING

PEPPERMINT BARK COOKIES Cookies 11⁄4 cup salted butter, softened 11⁄2 cup granulated sugar 1/2 cup brown sugar 2 large eggs 21⁄2 tsp. vanilla extract 2 cups plus 2 tbsp. all-purpose flour 3/4 cup dark cocoa powder (Dutch process) 2 tbsp. instant chocolate pudding mix 1 tsp. baking soda 3⁄4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips 11⁄4 cup white chocolate chips 3/4 cup crushed candy cane pieces Topping 8 oz. vanilla almond bark, melted 3/4 cup crushed candy canes Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

In the bowl of your mixer, cream together your butter and both sugars on medium speed for about 2 minutes, until fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time until blended, then mix in vanilla.

In a medium bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, chocolate pudding mix, and baking soda. Slowly beat into the butter mixture, scraping the sides of the bowl, until a stiff dough forms. Mix in both kinds of chips and peppermint pieces.

Using a large cookie scoop, scoop dough onto ungreased cookie sheets, 3 inches apart. Bake for about 15 minutes, until cookies are flat and crinkly and edges look set. Let cookies cool on baking sheet for about 5 minutes before removing to a wire rack to cool completely.

Drizzle cooled cookies with melted vanilla almond bark and immediately sprinkle generously with crushed candy pieces.

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WHAT’S COOKING

GINGERBREAD CUPCAKES Cupcakes 1/2 cup salted butter, slightly softened 1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar 1 large egg 1/2 cup water 1/2 cup molasses 11â „3 cup all-purpose flour 3/4 tsp. cinnamon 1/2 tsp. baking powder 1/2 tsp. baking soda 1/2 tsp. ground ginger 1/2 tsp. nutmeg 1/4 tsp. allspice Frosting 1/2 cup salted butter, slightly softened 1 (8 oz.) block cream cheese, slightly softened 2 tsp. vanilla 4 cups powdered sugar 1/2 tsp. cinnamon 3 tbsp. heavy cream Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line 12 muffin tins with liners and set aside.

Prepare cupcakes: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, spices, baking powder and baking soda. Set aside.

In the bowl of a mixer, beat butter and sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Beat in egg until mixed, then water and molasses. Change mixer speed to low and slowly add the flour mixture. Beat on medium for 2 minutes.

Fill muffin tins 2/3 full and bake for about 20 minutes or until tops spring back when lightly touched. Remove to wire rack to cool.

Frosting: In the bowl of a mixer, beat butter, cream cheese and vanilla on medium until smooth. Change mixer speed to low and slowly add powdered sugar until just mixed.

Add cream and beat on high for two minutes.

If frosting is too thick, add more cream 1 tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.

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WHAT’S COOKING NO-BAKE COCONUT PECAN PRALINE COOKIES 21⁄2 cups granulated sugar 1/2 cup evaporated milk 1/2 cup corn syrup 1 stick salted butter 1 tsp. vanilla extract 21⁄2 cups chopped pecans 2 cups sweetened shredded coconut In a medium-sized bowl, combine coconut and pecans; set aside.

In a heavy saucepan over medium high heat, stir sugar, evaporated milk, corn syrup and butter. Cook and stir until mixture comes to a full rolling boil – let boil and stir for 3 minutes.

Remove pan from heat and stir in vanilla and coconut and pecan mixture. Stir off the heat for about 4 minutes, until mixture starts to cool and thicken.

Drop by large spoonfuls on wax paper. Let harden completely – about an hour to an hour and a half – before serving. Makes about 20 large cookies.

CHOCOLATE PEPPERMINT SANDWICH COOKIES Cookies 1 box chocolate cake mix 2 large eggs 1 stick butter, slightly softened Frosting 2 sticks butter, slightly softened 4 tbsp. milk 4 cups powdered sugar 1½ tsp. peppermint extract ½ tsp. vanilla extract Red food coloring 3 disposable piping bags and large piping tip, if desired Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Cookies: In the bowl of your mixer, beat cake mix, eggs and butter until a dough is formed.

Scoop dough onto ungreased cookie sheets with a small cookie scoop, 2 inches apart. Bake for about 7 minutes, until cookies are crinkly and edges are set. Let cookies cool on baking sheet for a few minutes before removing to wire rack to cool completely.

Frosting: In the bowl of your mixer, beat butter, milk, and both extracts on medium speed until smooth. Slowly add powdered sugar, beating on low until just combined. Increase speed to high and beat for one minute, until frosting is fluffy and smooth. Divide frosting in half and color half with red food coloring, if desired.

Fit one piping bag with large piping tip. Fill one piping bag with red frosting and another with white. Snip off the ends and place both in the bag that has been fitted with the piping tip.

Pipe frosting in a swirl on the flat side of a cookie. Repeat with half the cookies, topping each with the flat side of another cookie.

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WHAT’S COOKING

APPLESAUCE RAISIN COOKIES 3/4 cup vegetable shortening 1 cup packed brown sugar 2 large eggs 11â „4 cup all purpose flour 1/2 tsp. salt 1 tsp. ground cinnamon 1/2 tsp. ground cloves 2/3 cup unsweetened applesauce 1/2 tsp. baking soda 2/3 cup raisins 1/2 cup granulated sugar Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Place raisins in a bowl and cover with very hot water. Let sit for 5 minutes, then drain and pat dry.

In a medium bowl, combine flour, salt, cinnamon and cloves. Set aside.

In the bowl of a mixer, beat shortening and brown sugar on medium speed until fluffy, about a minute. Add eggs, one at a time, beating on medium until combined. With the mixer on low, slowly add flour mixture until just combined.

In a small saucepan, heat applesauce until it just begins to bubble. Remove from heat and stir in baking soda. Add this mixture to the dough and beat on low until combined. Fold in raisins.

Drop dough with a large spoon on ungreased cookie sheets, 2 inches apart. Sprinkle with granulated sugar and bake for about 12 minutes or until cookies are puffy and edges are golden brown. Let cool on sheets for a few minutes before removing to wire racks. Makes about 3 dozen cookies.

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KIDS EVENTS

Dec. 1-29 Virtual Baby and Me Story Time The Van Buren Public Library will present virtual story times for babies, ages birth to 3 years. You can join the fun on the Children's Library Facebook page. This is a time for babies and caregivers to hear age-appropriate stories and sing a song or two. Free. 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Tuesdays. Facebook – Van Buren Public Library. Facebook – vbplchildrenslibrary

Dec. 1-29 Weekly Story Time Join the Mountainburg Public Library Facebook Page for virtual story time each week on Tuesdays. Dec. 1 is Jan Brett’s birthday. Read a winter-themed Jan Brett book and learn a little bit about this beloved children’s author and illustrator. The Dec. 8 theme is pine trees.

Many people celebrate Christmas with a decorated pine tree, but what is a pine tree, and why is it used that way? They’ll share some stories about pine trees and learn something new! Dec. 15’s story time theme will be Winter. Did you know that next week will be the first day of winter? Since it’s so close to the holidays, on Dec. 22, they will read a classic holiday book and discuss a few holiday traditions from around the world. The theme for the Dec. 29 story time will be transitions. They will remember the old and prepare for the new as everyone gets ready to celebrate the New Year. Free. 2:30-4:30 p.m. Tuesdays. Mountainburg Public Library 225 U.S. 71 North, Mountainburg 479-369-1600 Facebook – Mountainburg Public Library Dec. 1-29 Tuesday Surprise on Facebook Live Sometimes S.T.E.M., sometimes a craft, sometimes a story – this online program is a surprise. Free. 4-6 p.m. Tuesdays. Facebook – Mulberry Public Library

Dec. 1-29 Crafts with Ms. Recca Get into the holiday spirit Dec. 1 by making button ornaments. In a fun and easy craft on Dec. 3, you will make a glittery Christmas tree out of craft sticks. On Dec. 8, make an ornament using a pine cone to help you celebrate the holidays. Did you know you can make a snowman out of a coffee cup lid? You can on Dec. 10. On Dec. 15, make a unicorn ornament.

There’s nothing cuter than a penguin and, on Dec. 22, you can make a Penguin Pompom Ornament. Shifting to the coming year, on Dec. 29 make a simple and pretty 2021 calendar. Ms. Reeca shows teens and tweens how to do all these things on the Alma Public Library Facebook page. Free. 4-6 p.m. Facebook – Alma Public Library

Dec. 1-30 RAM Homeschool Virtual Class on Zoom STUDIO Art: Ages 12-18 – This hands-on homeschool 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 32 Entertainment Fort Smith December 2020

and principles of design will be emphasized and students will use them in explaining their work and process. 10 a.m. Wednesdays on Zoom. Music as an Art Prompt: Ages 6-11 will meet by Zoom at 11 a.m.

Wednesdays. This exciting homeschool class 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. Register today at fsram.org/education. Free.

Registration required. Fort Smith Regional Art Museum, 1601 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-7842787 fsram.org Dec. 2-16 Virtual Story Time The Van Buren Public Library will present virtual story times for children. You can join the fun on the Children's Library Facebook page. Some weeks there will be craft kits given out while supplies last, during the week at the library that reinforce the story time theme.

Free. 10:30 a.m. Facebook – vbplchildrenslibrary

Dec. 2-30 Facebook Live Story Time Ms. Lara will read a story and show how to do a fun craft – live! Themes include gingerbread, reindeer and Christmas. Simply log onto Facebook and find the Cedarville Public Library page. Free. 10 a.m. Wednesdays. Facebook – Cedarville Public Library Dec. 3 Tween Thursday Join the Cedarville Library once a month for a fun program geared toward middle school kids. Ms. Lara will post a video just for the tweens to enjoy. Lots of topics and activities will be covered like STEAM, coding or just something informative and silly. December’s activity will be a STEAM project you can easily do at home. Free. 3:45 p.m. Facebook – Cedarville Public Library

Dec. 3 Biography Break with Ms. Robin It's time for a break – a Biography Break! Real people are fascinating and it is fun to learn more about them.

Join Ms. Robin online at Facebook or YouTube. Free.

10-10:10 a.m. Facebook and YouTube – Fort Smith Public Library

Dec. 3, 10, 17 Story Time on Facebook Live Join the Ralph D. Graf Library of Mulberry on Facebook Live for a traditional story time with a craft demonstration for children. Free. 10 a.m. Facebook – Mulberry Public Library

Dec. 3, 10, 17 Virtual Tween and Teen Time The Van Buren Public Library will present virtual tween/teen times. You can find these programs on the library's Teen Space Facebook page. Free. 4-6 p.m.

Facebook – VBPLTeenspace

Dec. 3, 10, 17, 23 Virtual Story Time Enjoy a fun story with Miss Allison every week at virtual story time. After reading a short book, learn how to make a themed craft to go along with it. On Christmas Eve, Miss Allison has a special book to read to get ready for Santa’s big day. Free. 10:30 a.m. Facebook – Alma Public Library

Dec. 4 Story Break with Mrs. Tiffany Stop! It's time for a story break! Mrs. Tiffany will be sharing a story with a special animal or visiting an interesting location in our area. You can watch Story Break with Mrs. Tiffany anytime on the library's Facebook page or YouTube channel. Free. 10-10:10 a.m.

Facebook and YouTube – Fort Smith Public Library Dec. 4, 11, 18 Weekly Kraftivity with Miss Kara In December, Miss Kara will make a craft or have an activity for you to do along with her on Facebook. In honor of Jan Brett’s birthday on Dec. 4 she will be doing directed drawings of borders (Jan’s illustrations almost always have hand-drawn frames), and all you’ll need for this activity is paper and a pencil/pen of your choice. On Dec. 11, learn to make paper snowflakes by folding and cutting paper. She will demonstrate simple snowflakes for littles and more complex snowflakes for tweens and teens. For this activity, you will need several sheets of paper, a pencil and some scissors. The project on Dec. 18 is a LEGO challenge.

Request a take-and-make bag with everything you need to complete this challenge. Since the library will be closed Dec. 25 and Jan. 1, additional LEGO challenges will be included for kids to do at home. Call 479-369-1600 and reserve yours today. Free. 2:30 p.m. Facebook – Mountainburg Public Library Dec. 7, 18 Story Safari Let’s go on a Story Safari! Join zany librarians Mrs. Rachel and Mrs. Tiffany on the hunt for a great book.

You can watch Story Safari on the library's Facebook page or YouTube channel anytime. Free. 10-10:10 a.m. Facebook – Fort Smith Public Library

Dec. 7-28 Wintertime Kids Crafts Get in the winter spirit with Miss Allison while crafting a Tea Light Snowman, Penguin Poppers, a Santa Claus Piggy Bank and Cotton Swab Snowflakes. Toddlers/children. Free. 4-6 p.m. Mondays. Facebook – Alma Public Library Dec. 10 Story Time with Matia: “I Love My Hair” Do you love your hair? Do you have a favorite hairstyle? Matia likes to wear her hair in many different ways, just like Keyana. Join Matia on Facebook or YouTube as she reads “I Love My Hair.” This fun book was written by Natasha Anastasia Tarpley, illustrated

by E.B. Lewis and published by Little, Brown and Co. Post a picture of your hair after you listen to the story!

Matia would love to see it! Free. 10-10:10 a.m. Facebook and YouTube – Fort Smith Public Library Dec. 10 Teen Time Join the Cedarville Library once a month for an awesome program for ages 13-18. Ms. Lara will post a video just for the teens to enjoy. Lots of topics and activities will be covered like S.T.E.A.M. projects, coding or maybe something a little crazy. December’s activity will be a coding project you can easily do at home.

Free. 3:45-5:45 p.m. Facebook – Cedarville Public Library

Dec. 11 Family & Folklore Friday on Facebook If you enjoy legends and folklore, you’ll love Mrs.

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KIDS EVENTS Tammy’s stories this month as she shares stories based on the holidays on the Alma Public Library Facebook page. Free. 2-4 p.m. Facebook – Alma Public Library

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

Dec. 21 Christmas Candy Catapults Have fun with family and friends this holiday season by building a Christmas Candy Catapult! Watch the video for a supply list and instructions about how to complete the activity. You can watch "Christmas Candy Catapults" anytime on the Fort Smith Public Library's Facebook page or YouTube Channel. Free. 1010:10 a.m. Facebook and YouTube – Fort Smith Public Library Dec. 21 Laptime Story Time with Mrs. Tiffany Join Mrs. Tiffany for a virtual laptime story time! 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. 10-10:10 a.m. Facebook and YouTube-Fort Smith Public Library Dec. 24 Virtual Story Time Miss Allison has a special book to read on Christmas Eve, just for you! Join her on the Alma Public Library page to get ready for Santa’s big day. Free. 10:30 a.m.

Facebook – Alma Public Library

Dec. 25 Family & Folklore Friday on Facebook Merry Christmas! Mrs. Tammy recorded a Christmas story just for you to watch today. Free. 2-4 p.m. Facebook – Alma Public Library

Dec. 31 Virtual Noon Year's Eve Party Story Time The Van Buren Public Library will present a virtual Noon Year’s Eve Party for children. Join the fun on the Children's Library Facebook page. They will have a special countdown to Noon on Dec. 30 and there will be stories and a craft you can do to help your family get ready for the New Year. Contact the Van Buren Public Library for more information. Free. 11:45 a.m.1:45 p.m. Facebook – vbplchildrenslibrary

Dec. 31 Virtual Story Time Enjoy a fun story with Miss Allison every week at virtual story time! After reading a short book, learn how to make a themed craft to go along with it. Virtual story time is on the Alma Public Library Facebook page. Free. 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Facebook – Alma 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.

Facebook and YouTube – Fort Smith Public Library December 2020

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CALENDAR of events

Dec. 1-26 Focus on Greenwood’s Trail of Lights Nightly, enjoy a drive through beautiful Bell Park, lighted with 30,000 LED and RGB light displays. Free. Donations appreciated. 5:30-9 p.m. Bell Park, 1050 Bell Park Road, Greenwood, Ark. Facebook-Focus on Greenwood Dec. 1-Jan. 2 Van Buren Christmas in the Parks Dark winter evenings will be merry and bright – two sparkling light shows are presented in Van Buren. Historic downtown’s Freedom Park on Main Street is lighted with holiday displays and a Freedom Tree that can be enjoyed along with all the lighted store windows. Then, take a drive along City Park Road for a spectacular display to be enjoyed from inside your vehicle. Follow signs for the one-way routing.

Dates for the City Parks light shows are Dec. 4-6, Dec. 11-13 and Dec. 18-Jan. 2.

Free. 6-11 p.m. Freedom Park on Main Street and Van Buren Municipal Park, City Park Road, Van Buren, Ark. Dec. 5 Kindness and A Cup of Tea Opening Reception The Gallery on Garrison holds an opening for an exhibit of gallery owner Melody Smith. All are invited for a cup of tea and imaginative art.

Wine and holiday snacks will be served. Suzanne Des Marais is an artist living, until recently, in Washington, D.C. She and her partner, Bill, recently acquired a B&B in Altus, where she has been painting. Her art is filled with everyday objects in an expressive and painterly style. Free. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Dec. 5. 914 Garrison Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-926-6014 Facebook – Gallery on Garrison

RAM offers two exhibits in December DEC

Enjoy the last month of two exhibits at the Fort Smith Regional Art Museum, always free and open Tuesday through Sunday in downtown Fort Smith. RAM offers a safe, spacious visit that can be enjoyed while keeping apart from one another and wearing a mask.

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Suzannah Schreckhise: Attention to Tension Fort Smith Regional Art Museum presents a solo 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 Arts-Arkansas National Committee.

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.

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Dec. 5 Fort Smith Symphony: Tis the Season Concerts Hear season favorites such as “Sleigh Ride,” “A Christmas Festival” and many more traditional holiday selections. The symphony will be performing two one-hour 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. Call for available tickets. 479-452-7575 fortsmithsymphony.org Dec. 6 Tour of Holiday Homes Online The popular Holiday Home Tour held annually by the Junior League of Fort Smith is a video program this year, showing a live tour of five beautifully decorate private homes plus 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. $10 tickets, purchased online, 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 about the tour’s 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.

Dec. 7 Greenwood “Reverse” Christmas Parade Crowding together is out this year, but Greenwood has thought of an alternate way to hold its beloved Christmas parade. The parade floats and vehicles will be parked and spectators will drive past it. A windshield sticker will designate the number of kids in each car and each auto will be given a butterfly net provided by Farmers Bank. Parade participants who would have thrown candy will fill the net. Spectators will enter the school grounds at the Daisy Street entrance and stay in their vehicles.

Foot traffic through the parade area will not be allowed. As is the tradition, Santa will appear at the end of the parade. Free. 7-8:30 p.m. Greenwood High School, 440 East Gary Street, Greenwood, Ark.

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Dec. 16 Off the Cuff Cooking with Rachel and Jodie: Christmas Creations!

Rachel and Jodie follow and make recipes from cookbooks that are available to check out from the library.

Get in the holiday spirit! Watch the hosts online as they make Christmas candies and craft a cute vintageinspired ornament. Free. 10-10:10 a.m. Facebook and YouTube – Fort Smith Public Library

Dec. 16 Book Review on Facebook Hear what Mrs. Tammy has to say about "Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine" by Gail Honeyman. This quirky, heartfelt novel, published in 2017, gained such a following that Reece Witherspoon soon will release the movie version. Free. 2-4 p.m. Facebook-Alma Public Library Dec. 16 Easy Paint/Pour Ornaments Make these paint/pour ornaments, guided by Ms. Reeca’s video. Free. 2-4 p.m.

Facebook – Alma Public Library Dec. 17 Make It in a Minute 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

Jody Barbaree

Dec. 7 Manifest Exhibit Opening Reception Manifest is an exhibition of Shepard Fairey art prints from the Cullum Collection and an evolution of paintings from local artist Jody Barbaree, held by the Bakery District Galleries. The first are bold and demanding art prints of Shepard Fairey; a collection of local artist Peter Cullum. Fairey, whose work broke out into national attention for his Obama poster with the word “HOPE,” was already noted for his “Obey” sticker art.

Complementing these works are abstract paintings by local artist Jody Barbaree. He draws inspiration from the creative evolution of human expression, from prehistoric cave paintings to modern art. For safe distancing, reception times have been extended. Guests are encouraged to attend in one-hour spans. Light refreshments will be provided. Cash bar. Free. 6-9 p.m.

The Bakery District, 70 South 7th Street, Fort Smith.

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This cooking video and all video programs listed here by the Fort Smith Public Library can be seen live or later on the library’s Facebook or YouTube channel. Once aired, the videos are always available.

Dec. 17 Book Club December’s Book Club selection will be a holiday classic: “Skipping Christmas” by John Grisham. Free. 13 p.m. Facebook – Cedarville Public Library

Dec. 16 What's Up with B? Join Ms. Bridgette, aka B, as she hosts a variety of guests that will enlighten us on their country’s Christmas heritage. It is a fun Christmas around the world special. Free. 1:30-3:30 p.m. Facebook – Van Buren Public Library

Dec. 17 Virtual Card Class – Gift Tags This virtual card class is free with limited kits available for pick up. Call to sign up for a kit; provide your own adhesive and scissors to make Christmas tags. Follow along with the virtual class online. Free. 1:30-3:30 p.m. Facebook – Van Buren Public Library

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Dec. 17 Cupcake Liner Christmas Trees Librarians love cupcake liners. Make cute little Christmas trees. Ms. Reeca shows you how online. All ages. Free. 4-6 p.m. Facebook-Alma Public Library Dec. 18-21 Stocking Drive Drop-off and Cookies with Santa Drive-through Mercy Crest asks the community to help its residents celebrate Christmas by bringing stockings filled with stocking stuffers for male or female residents. Drop off stockings and enjoy Santa's cookies and hot chocolate. Santa, the Grinch, and Santa's Elves will be there with lots of Christmas cheer. Stockings will be accepted through Dec. 21. All donations are welcomed and very appreciated. This is a drivethru event. Free. 2-4 p.m. Mercy Crest, 1300 Strozier Lane, Barling, Ark. 479-4783000 mercycrest.com.

Chaffee Crossing, Regional Veterans Day Parade organization and Christmas Honors cooperate to salute veterans in a new tribute DEC

The entire community was disappointed that both the Regional Veterans Day Parade at Chaffee Crossing and Christmas Honors wreath-laying at Fort Smith’s U.S. National Cemetery were canceled for 2020 due to the ongoing pandemic. Both groups of event organizers did not want the year to pass without honoring area veterans, so they have teamed up to present Christmas Honors Tribute at Chaffee Crossing.

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In partnership with Chaffee Crossing, Christmas Honors is hosting a tribute display consisting of the names of every veteran – more than 18,000 – buried at the Fort Smith National Cemetery.

The Christmas Honors Tribute at Chaffee Crossing will open at 10 a.m.

Dec. 5 and remain open through Dec. 28. The display will start at 7300 Buckhorn St. in the Chaffee Crossing Historic Area. Lighted signs printed with names of veterans interred at Fort Smith’s U.S. National Cemetery will be placed along the 1,200-foot, one-way drive-through between historic World War II-era barracks. The unique display allows visitors to pay their respects without the risk of crowds. The display will be open from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. each day, giving the community the opportunity to view the display at leisure during December.

FCRA Executive Director and CEO Daniel Mann said the collaboration allows Chaffee Crossing to show appreciation for veterans that is usually expressed through its annual Regional Veterans Day Parade.

Christmas Honors chairman Philip Merry agreed this is a way to fulfill their organizations' mission “to show respect and honor to veterans and their families to ensure they will never be forgotten.”

8 a.m.-10 p.m. daily, Dec. 5-28. Chaffee Crossing Historic District, 7300 Buckhorn Street, Fort Smith. chaffeecrossing.org 40

Entertainment Fort Smith

December 2020

Dec. 19 Season Ticket Discussion: Cooking with Chinese Five Spice Expand your taste buds with a (culinary) Season Ticket kit. This month’s featured spice is Chinese Five Spice, traditionally including sweet, bitter, sour, salty and pungent flavors. A free kit includes a sample of the spice, a fact sheet and a recipe using the spice.

Attend a virtual meeting to discuss Chinese Five Spice powder may what you made. Pick up kit beginning include star anise, Chinese Dec. 2 from 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday- cinnamon, cloves, fennel seeds and Friday. Supplies are limited; informa- ground Sichuan peppers, although tion on how to attend the virtual it can be made with other variants. meeting is in the kit. Free. 2-3 p.m.

Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-783-0229 Dec. 22 Trivia Night with Ronny Play a few fun rounds of general trivia online with host Ronny. This session could be about any subject. Free. 6:30-7 p.m. Facebook – Fort Smith Public Library Dec. 23 What's Up with B? Host Ms. Bridgette, aka “B,” sits at the microphone to steer an interactive Christmas party, with special musical numbers, trivia and a holiday sing-along. Celebrate with the library’s community of patrons and staff. Facebook – Van Buren Public Library Dec. 23 Alma Library Recipe Club - Christmas Dinner Recipe Staff will share some of their favorite holiday recipes on Facebook and ask everyone to contribute their own. So, share away! What makes your holiday table special?

Is it traditional or unusual? Tamales? Prime rib? A breakfast casserole? Bonus points if you share photos. Free. 2-4 p.m. Facebook – Alma Public Library Dec. 30 Make Your Own 2021 Calendar Is one of your New Year’s resolutions to get organized? Then you need a great 2021 calendar. Ms. Reeca shows you how in an online video to teach a craft activity for adults. Free. 2-4 p.m. Facebook – Alma Public Library Dec. 31 Finish Strong Group Run Finish the year off strong with a group run with True Grit Running Co. It's the perfect way to end 2020 and an easy way to get in some miles before the new year.

It should take about an hour, so there will be plenty of time to get ready for New Year's Eve plans. Let's end this crazy year right! Free. 3-4 p.m. True Grit Running Co., 6808 Rogers Avenue, Suite B, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-434-3571 trugritrunningco.com 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

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS

THE BIRDS

ATTENTION TO ATTENTION TO TENSION TENSION October 16, 2020 – January 31, 2021

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

December 2020

Entertainment Fort Smith

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Shop your

JANUARY

Trust and trade with these fine local businesses and professional services at the holidays and all year long.

Happy New Year!

Hometown

A TO Z VARIETY ALLISON SALES AOG ASHTON PLACE ATTITUDES DANCE BRUNWICK PLACE MASSARD BUSINESS PARK CENTER FOR HEARING CRAIN HYUNDAI D&D FLOORING DESIGNER AGAIN DIAMOND CENTER FIREFLY BOUTIQUE GIRL SCOUTS GREEN POINT SHOPPING CENTER HEIDI'S WAY BOUTIQUE IN GOOD SPIRITS IVEY MANAGEMENT

KUAF 91.3 MAJESTIC MARBLE MAYBRANCH SQUARE METROPOLIS HAIR STUDIO MIKE'S FURNITURE NEUMEIER'S NURSERY NEWTON JEWELERS OH SO BOHO BOUTIQUE OLEN & CO MARKET PAUL'S MEAT MARKET RAM REED MADDOX. LMT SALON ELEMENTS STILES EYE GROUP TRUE GRIT RUNNING VANITY CALLS SALON VERTICAL HORIZONS WARNOCK REALTY

A great community does not come from a “big box” or a shipping box. It comes from your involved hometown businesspeople.

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Entertainment Fort Smith

December 2020

2021

Jan. 1 Family & Folklore Friday on Facebook Oh, January. How we love the chance to start anew! This month in the Family & Folklore series, Mrs. Tammy will be sharing legends and folklore that talk about new beginnings. Free. 2-4 p.m. Facebook – Alma Public Library Jan. 4 DIY Stress Ball Don’t stress, get crafty! Join Miss Allison online to make your own super-cool stress ball. Free. 4-6 p.m. Facebook-Alma Public Library Jan. 6 What's Up with B? What’s Up with B is a weekly video program. Each week, B is up to something, this week it is all about the slow cooker. B will be discussing yummy recipes to make dinner preparation easier and delicious. She will show one meal’s prep, step by step. Free. 1:30-3:30 p.m. Facebook – Van Buren Public Library Jan. 6 Recipe Club – Candy: 5 Ingredients or Fewer Share your favorite easy-to-make candy recipe using five ingredients or fewer.

The library staff will share some of their favorite recipes on its Facebook page, and look for yours. Free. 2-4 p.m. Facebook – Alma Public Library Jan. 8 Family & Folklore Friday Hear legends and folklore that regarding new beginnings. Free. 2-4 p.m.

Facebook – Alma Public Library Jan. 11 Van Buren Library Virtual Book Club Book club will meet via Zoom. Have you read a book that would be perfect for the club or that had influenced you in some way? This month is all about sharing your latest and greatest reads while choosing books for the coming year. Adults and seniors are invited. Free. 7-9 p.m. Facebook – vanburenpubliclibrary Jan. 12 Virtual Scrapbooking Scrapbooking kits for the virtual class on the Van Buren Public Library’s Facebook page will be available by calling the library and putting your name on the list. These are free, but there is a limited number of kits, so call for availability. 2:30-3:30 p.m. Facebook – Van Buren Public Library Jan 12 Alma Library Book Talk on Zoom The Alma Public Library is inviting new readers to its Book Club, which is held on the virtual platform Zoom. January’s selection is "The Road We Traveled" by Jane Kirkpatrick. The novel centers around three generations of the women in the Brown family who are traveling on the Oregon Trail. When the trail divides, they must make a decision that could cost them their lives. Phone the library for the information needed to log into the virtual meeting, where everyone can see one another and discuss together. Free. 6-8 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Jan. 13 What's Up with B? Ms. Bridgette visits with special guest Michelle Pennington, a USA Today bestselling author. Pennington writes clean romance books in many different genres.

She also is a busy mother and wife. Take a few minutes to hear her story and the stories she writes for readers to enjoy. Adults/seniors. Free. 1:30-3:30 p.m.

Facebook – Van Buren Public Library Jan. 13 Candy Cane Wreath Do you have leftover candy canes? If not, there are all kinds of year-long candy canes in stores. Make a sweet candy cane wreath, perfect for February and Valentine's Day. Ms. Reeca shows you how online.

Adults. Free. 2-4 p.m. Facebook – Alma Public Library.

Jan. 14 Make a Glitter Votive Craft Who doesn’t love glittery crafts? What makes them even better is adding a votive candle. Ms. Reeca shows how in a live video. Adults/seniors. Free. 4-6 p.m. Facebook – Alma Public Library.

Jan. 20 What's Up with B? To celebrate National Popcorn Day a day late, join Ms. B to watch how to make a variety of gourmet popcorn.

Play popcorn trivia for a chance to win a prize. Free.

1:30-3:30 p.m. Facebook – Van Buren Public Library Jan. 20 Recipe Club – Candy: 3 Ingredients or Fewer Share your favorite easy-to-make candy recipe using three ingredients or fewer to get ready for Valentine’s Day. Free. 2-4 p.m. Facebook – Alma Public Library Jan. 21 Virtual Handmade Card Class Limited kits of materials are available for pick up.

Phone to sign up for a kit. You will need your own adhesive and scissors to make a Valentine card. Follow along with the virtual class. Adults/seniors. Free. 1:303:30 p.m. Facebook – Van Buren Public Library Jan. 22 Family & Folklore Friday Fresh starts and transformations found in folklore.

Free. 2-4 p.m. Facebook – Alma Public Library

Jan. 27 What's Up with B? Today is International Holocaust Remembrance Day. Ms. B will have on display and review many book titles on the subject, across different genres. Have you read particular Holocaust stories that touched or spoke to you? Join in on the virtual conversation to share and discuss them. Adults/seniors. Free. 1:30-3:30 p.m.

Facebook – Van Buren Public Library December 2020

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Jan. 27 Book Review on Facebook Find out what Mrs. Tammy has to say about "The Road We Traveled" by Jane Kirkpatrick. This novel about the Oregon Trail is based on actual events and follows the main character, Tabitha Brown, on her harrowing journey for survival. Free. 2-4 p.m. Facebook – Alma Public Library Jan. 27 Coconut Lime Salt Scrub Winter can be hard on your skin. Ms. Reeca shows you how to make a coconut lime salt scrub that’s soothing, on the Alma Public Library Facebook page.

Always test on a small patch of skin before wider use.

Adults. Free. 2-4 p.m. Facebook – Alma Public Library Jan 28-Jan 28 Cedarville Library Book Club Join the Cedarville Public Library for a discussion about their book of the month. Call for January’s Book Club selection. Adults/seniors. Free. 1-3 p.m.

Facebook – Cedarville Public Library Jan. 28 Virtual Crafterworks Crafterworks is a monthly craft program for adults, after work. Currently, it is being offered online. This month’s project will be a Valentine-themed craft project. Call for a supply list and preview the project online starting Jan. 4. Free. 6-8 p.m.

Facebook – Van Buren Public Library Jan. 29 Family & Folklore Friday How we love the chance to start anew, in every culture all through time. Ms. Tammy will be sharing legends, fables and folklore that center on new beginnings.

Free. 2-4 p.m. Facebook – Alma Public Library

FEAST YOUR EARS.

KUAF 44

Entertainment Fort Smith

December 2020

This digital issue of Entertainment Fort Smith is “live� and events may change as needed.

Stay current: You may continue to submit December holiday events online to be published on the online calendar of events at efortsmith.com. Submit any event changes, corrections or cancellation of events in writing by sending email to the editor, lynnwasson@efortsmith.com.

Check before you go: Check the listed contacts and included websites for changes or cancellations to these events during this uncertain time of public health, which may cause closures or adjustments.

Submit upcoming events: The public is encouraged to submit any upcoming events for publication by using an online form found at efortsmith.com. Events should be noncommercial, educational, entertaining and free or low-cost. Display advertising is available for commercial events – call the magazine for advertising rates.

Connect with us on social media: “Like� Entertainment Fort Smith’s Facebook page and check in for late-entered and shared events as they may develop.

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