Entertainment Fort Smith Magazine - February 2017

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EDITOR’S NOTES

Editorial Staff LINDA SEUBOLD Editor in Chief lindaseubold@efortsmith.com LYNN WASSON Managing Editor lynnwasson@efortsmith.com DONNA PAYNE Senior Editor donnapayne@efortsmith.com MARY JANE HENNIG Art Director Contributing Writers JO CARSON REBA MIZE BRITTANY RANSOM KRISTAN ROLAND Contributing Photographers GLENN GILLEY ROGER CARTER KARRIE KELLY DONNA PAYNE

Advertising Sales LINDA GILHAM Account Executive lgilham@efortsmith.com 479-629-0235 Advertising Coordinator KARRIE KELLY karrie@efortsmith.com 479-494-1888 CHARLES G. HUBBARD Corporate Sales charleshubbard@efortsmith.com 479-831-3995

Bookkeeping JULIE BERCH HAMILTON accounts@efortsmith.com 479-494-1888 © 2017 eFortSmith.com Media, Inc. efortsmith.com 4

Entertainment Fort Smith

February 2017

February’s photography was museum-worthy Entertainment Fort Smith has returned for 2017 and will be published each month until our next combined December/January issue. It’s fun to send you this new issue with the popular Readers’ Favorites results as our leading content.

This year, we invited our winners (in secrecy) to the beautiful Fort Smith Regional Art Museum, RAM. By offering glimpses of the exhibits now up and staging our portrait subjects to advantage against its handsome architectural design, we hope to entice more of you to visit. You’d be joining so many people who love and appreciate it and who browse its offerings regularly But, we discovered by polling our portrait subjects, not everyone has visited the museum.

Many of the businesspeople, restaurateurs and non-profit organization volunteers were delighted to see it. They vowed to come back and enjoy a long look or learn about RAM’s free Art Saturdays for children.

Many new beginnings come with a new year.

We invited Jo Carson, who became a novice runner last year, to share her story of learning she had the heart of an athlete – after 60. By training in the all-volunteer Women Run Arkansas program, she and many others took that first step. Jo kept on moving after that, then set and achieved a personal “goal race.”

You can join this program, too, starting in February. You’ll be running or walking in March. Experienced runners will be tackling the gritty Fort Smith Marathon this month.

Brenda Yelvington, a novice documentary filmmaker (among her many talents) achieved a different kind of personal goal by premiering her film, “Leaving a Legacy,” last month after three years of gestation. Even babies don’t take three

Thanks to RAM’s executive director Lee Ortega, top left, who permitted us to take feature portraits in the museum. Staff, especially Casey Seamans, lower left, welcomed our guests graciously.

years to be born! We review the film (that took four words) and tell you more about what drove her to capture a year in the life of a Northside High School band.

From Van Buren schools, Brittany Ransom writes what’s getting elementary kids to eat their vegetables or at least try them.

Our Favorites feature is your Valentine to local establishments. Enjoy!

– Lynn Wasson

Clarification A Fort Smith Medical Center ad which appeared in the November issue should have designated the title “Primary Care Providers” in its text.

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

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

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

Download a subscription form from www.efortsmith.com

To order by credit card, call 479-494-1888.

Mail check or money order to: Subscribe P.O. Box 1341 Fort Smith AR 72902

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CONTENTS

November 2016

features

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22 24

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She runs! Jo Carson

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75 A blue jar of zinnia seeds

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See Jo Run Astonishing mostly herself, Jo Carson has become a runner and a road warrior in several senses. We asked her to tell her own story.

By Jo Carson

Beginner or experienced, anyone can win a race The Fort Smith Marathon this month will include swift, competitive finishers.

Much later across the finish line, those who started with Women Run Arkansas will finish in a way that’s just as much of a win.

Getting hands dirty leads to learning about “clean” eating A FoodCorps garden program in Van Buren elementaries is showing that children may taste and like what they, themselves, have helped to grow.

By Brittany Ransom

Learn from the experts Your Favorites purveyors of home and lifestyles drop a few hints.

GARDENING Forget planning, Reba Mize writes. Jump ahead to blooms.

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Fashion, Fitness and Style Insider news from your Favorites.

WHAT’S COOKING Such sweets for our sweetheart!

Recipes by Kristan Roland.

DINING GUIDE A few words about the hotly contested Favorites restaurants.

eve n t s

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Only slightly less hyped than the Oscars and well after the rowdy Golden Globes, here are the winners that count: your Readers’ Favorites

departments

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Readers’ Favorites Poll winners

MUSIC & PERFORMANCE Featured plays, concerts and entertainment in the area.

EVENTS 52 KIDS Try your hand at a word search.

And the Sorting Hat is coming.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS Everyone is ready to pick up the pace with races and other energetic events.

Find out where to celebrate Mardi Gras.

Such Sweets!

Entertainment Fort Smith

February 2017

On the cover: Zoe Yandell of Van Buren shows off the first carrot from King Elementary School’s FoodCorps on-campus garden.

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15th Annual

Readers’ Favorites Chosen by readers’ votes on write-in ballots, here are the people and places you chose as your Favorites this year. Our annual, just-for-fun poll establishes braggin’ rights and earns a lot of appreciation from the chosen businesses, services and organizations.

Favorite Antiques Mall Belle Starr Antiques, Naomi Chambers, Beth Templeton

Favorite Furniture / Repurposing The Goods, Sherry Goodrum

Favorite Antiques & Collectibles, Interior Décor The Now & Then Shoppe, Joan Sloat, Marty White

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Our photo shoot location this year is the Fort Smith Regional Art Museum.

The beautiful galleries at RAM are open to the public, with free admission, Tuesday-Sunday.

Some of the works in the background are the paintings of Jason Sacran and a traveling exhibit called Art Says, by the Norwegian artist Liv Fjellsol. Works from the permanent collection are also on exhibit.

Favorite Furniture Store Mike’s Furniture, Tamara Oliver, Mike Barnes

Favorite Women’s Apparel Hanger Management, Kristey Taake, Natalie Hedrick

Favorite Make It Yourself Store The Sewing Center Jeannie and Patrick Moody

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Favorite Boutique Firefly Boutique & Gifts Mindy London

Crain Hyundai Kenny Robe, Joe Pulliam, Michelle Kuhl

Favorite Auto Dealer (tie) Orr Chevrolet Cadillac of Fort Smith Bryan Penniman, Scotty Dunham, Tom Attee

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Favorite Resale Children’s Clothing Jill’s Consignment, Jill Neal

Favorite Consignment Women’s Clothing Designer Again, Tiffany Parker

Favorite Children’s Clothing Polka Dotted Zebra Sheila Bailey, Amy Bailey, Andi Cumbi

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Favorite Concert or Festival Peacemaker Music & Art Festival Ricky Beauchamp, Sloane Harper, Jeff Gosey

Favorite Live Music Venue The SoundRoom, Pam Kelly

Ben Geren Regional Park, Bobby Faulkner

Favorite Place to Run (tie) Chaffee Crossing, Represented by Western Arkansas Runners Club Jeremy Maxwell, Kerrie Taber, Shirley Bearden, Melissa Vitale

Favorite Place to Walk Creekmore Park Sara Duester of Fort Smith Parks & Recreation

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Favorite Non-Profit Fundraiser Event Steel Horse Rally Orval Smith, Dennis and Karen Snow

Favorite Library Event A Capote Christmas, Miller Branch Library Anita Paddock, Brad Kidder and Tiffany Nelson

Favorite Non-Profit Fundraiser Party The Gregory Kistler Treatment Center A Night in the Caribbean Meredith Williams (clockwise from top left), Tracy Gibson, Becky Dayberry, Lara McGehee, Sharon DeWitt

Favorite Non-Profit Race Donald W. Reynolds Cancer Support House Survivors’ Challenge Ricky Beauchamp and John Ziegler

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Favorite Art Exhibit The 2016 Unexpected Mural Festival John McIntosh, Charlotte Dutoit, Claire Kolberg, Steve Clark

Favorite Youth Performance The Nutcracker – Western Arkansas Ballet Jared Mesa, Melissa Schoenfeld, Brianna Hagar

Favorite Barbershop PrimeTime Barbershop, Erica Page Nelson, Ronnie Oudomparamy, Alex Gonzales, Stephen Do, Marvin Martinez, Mario Gonzalez

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Favorite Hair Color Metropolis, Rene Cormier, Janice Ratcliff

Favorite Nail Salon Nails by Anderson, Anderson Nguyen

Favorite Skin Care Services Affinity Day Spa, Jennifer Bell, Christina Lira

Favorite Hair Salon, Hair Extensions Salon Elements, Marcie Comstock

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Favorite Burger Patrick’s Butcher Boys Burgers Micah Bubbus

Favorite Pizza and Take-Out Pizza Papa’s Pub, Timothy McCain, Colby Lee, Jon Intres, David Root

Favorite Fine Dining StoneHouse Jared Jordan, Josh Dodd, Chef Memo Guillermo Vaca, Benjamin Wilkin

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Favorite Bakery Confectionately Yours Alexandria Strassmann, Larry Shackelford, Rebecca Hines

Favorite Mexican Restaurant Favorite Patio Dining La Huerta, Juan Moncivais, Hector Torres, Marco Torres

Favorite Asian Restaurant Tai Pei, Linh and Caitlyn Phan

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Favorite Barbecue Whole Hog Café Marina Kern, Joshua Rauser

Favorite Sushi Saké Sushi & Martini Bar Jose Palafox, Josh Dodd, Mark Walker, David Keosleumsac

Favorite Take-Out Barbecue, Catering Ralph’s Pink Flamingo Jeff and Ralph Taylor

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Favorite Deli River City Bistro, Jason Haid, Susan Tucker

Favorite Dining Near Fort Smith Steffy’s Pizza, LeAnn Steffy-Ellison, Brier Ellison

Favorite Place to Watch a Ball Game Buffalo Wild Wings, Ashley Dressendorfer, Ana Esquivel, Alisha Higgins

Favorite Craft Beer Core’s Pub, Jay Richardson

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Novice runner Jo Carson still finds it surprising that she has become a road warrior

“I run” Jo Carson crossing the finish line in her “goal” race during her first year of resolving to run.

“I

run. I’m an athlete. I’ve lost 47 pounds and a whole lot of inches. I am still obese.

But, I’m a healthier obese person. I’ve been running for 10 months.

My family, friends and co-workers understand about my running. It’s all I can talk about sometimes. I owe much of my success to the Fort Smith chapter of Women Run Arkansas. I attended their clinic orientation last February where clinic director, Melissa Vitale, spoke enthusiastically about her own evolution as a runner and athlete. The truth is that the visual impact of her message was the most motivating part of the evening to me. Melissa did not look like the stereotypical female runner. She gave me hope. Before the clinic started, I bought running shoes.

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Entertainment Fort Smith

February 2017

The clinic was held at the Western Arkansas Runners building at Chaffee Crossing. Thank goodness for their indoor restroom. We met two days a week. The experience each day was both encouraging and structured. Women and men runners from our area volunteered to lead each group.

We chose our group that first day. We could walk or we could run in groups based on our experience. Runner A was for beginners. I stared at the sign-in sheets and thought, “If I don’t try running first, I may never do it.” I know myself.

I could see myself as a walker. And to be honest, I’d walked in several 5K races so walking is familiar. I like familiar.

I joined Runner A the first day. I was a little scared because I figured I would need to move to

the walkers. I didn’t think I had what it took to run. I was wrong. Our training alternated between running and walking. The group leaders carried timers and cued us to run or walk. Each time we were told to run, I ran.

Each time we were told to walk, I walked. But there are not enough synonyms for the word “slow” to describe my speed as a runner.

I wore braces on my knees to protect them due to my weight and previous leg and knee injuries. I ran in yoga pants because I didn’t have any running clothes. I bandaged my toes like a trauma specialist until I discovered 2Toms Blister Shield. I was a sight. One clinic member told me she and her friends had prayed for me because they just knew that I was literally “on my last legs.”

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A runner’s life: Carson with her Marine Run shirt; with Marines at the race – Oorah! The Road Warriors cram into a jubilant selfie after a big run.

I confess I love Internet memes that show awkward runners. They depict so much that is true about my running style.

When our clinic ended, we entered the WRA 5K race in Conway for clinic participants around the state. Almost 2,500 women ran together on May 7. The night before, I enjoyed all of the Facebook posts of race outfits laid out on beds in the shape of their owners, down to their running shoes. Running shoes. I had driven all the way to Conway and forgotten my running shoes. The hotel clerk told me where I could buy shoes at 9:30 p.m. I ran my first race in new shoes, something that is not recommended by experienced runners. I finished with a new PR, personal record. Apparently, adversity is a good motivator.

My yoga pants are too big now. I changed knee brace sizes. I bought running capris. My weight loss is so surprising to me that at times I gather up the extra inches of fabric in a piece of clothing I am wearing and marvel at it in my hand. My deepest revelation so far: I’ve added years to my life that I honestly hadn’t counted on before taking up running.

After the clinic ended, Vickie Lane Chamlee, Sonya Hiatt, Ann Bowers Kinder and I wanted to continue our running so we formed a group called the Road Warriors, joined by spouses and now, new Warriors. We train and race and socialize. Our cover photo on Facebook said it all: “Running, Cheaper Than Therapy.”

I ran with the Roadies three times a week after Conway but struggled on the track trying to make sense of where my efforts would take me. In mid-June, I found a running program online that looked realistic, a run/walk program

by Olympian runner Jeff Galloway. I bought the corresponding 10K app for my mobile phone for $3.99. As it turns out, this is my cheapest weight loss program yet.

I made myself accountable for my running by posting my training runs and races on Facebook.

I am grateful to my family and friends who took the time to “like” and “comment” about my running. The same night I downloaded my training app, I signed up for the Marine 10K race in Washington on Oct. 30. I could travel to DC, race and visit my brother, a retired Marine.

The next morning, I received my race registration confirmation email. I was shocked by my own audacity. It’s funny now but I wondered all that day whether I really knew what I had just committed to – running 6.2 miles, in front of my Marine brother and 6,000 other runners. Was I insane?

In July, my husband took me to a running clinic in Lawrence, Kan., where I met Jeff Galloway. He is one of the nicest people I’ve ever met. I told him I planned on running the Marine 10K in 3½ months using his method.

He smiled. “Great! I’ll be there. I’m running the marathon. (He’s 71 years old.) Come by my booth at the Marine Expo.”

So, I trained through the summer and fall for the 10K. I worked through the heat and shin splints with the help of the Roadies and cut enough time off my pace to ensure that I could finish the race in the allotted time.

I visited Jeff Galloway’s booth the day before the race. We had our picture taken together. I told him about my progress. He was touched by my effort and he felt my next step was to let him coach me personally.

I told him, “I’ll think about it.” I still had to actually run and finish this race.

And, I did. My husband, brother and sisterin-law have photographic proof. It was weird, having cheerleaders. My family seemed as enthusiastic as I was, hurrying from one point to the next to watch my progress. There were Marines all along the race route, high-fiving you and yelling Marine “encouragement.” There are viewing stands at the end of the race. When I ran by, braces and all, I was moved to tears because the women in the crowd stood up and cheered, yelling my number and urging me to finish strong. I wear my Marine race jersey proudly. Would I run a 10K again? Sure. I just hope the next one is not as hilly as that course through downtown Rosslyn, Va. Finding out that I could change my own behavior so dramatically was awesome and a bit unsettling. I ran my last race of 2016 in December and I set a personal 5K record. Back when I was 29, I trained to run a 13-minute mile in order to qualify for the FBI. My PR this year is .10 seconds over a 14-minute mile. I’ll be 62 in May. I’m getting close.

I’m going to train in the 2017 WRA clinic this spring. And, I’ve decided to participate in Jeff Galloway’s personal coaching program and see where that takes me. The Road Warriors have been talking about training for a halfmarathon. For me, that’s awesome and still unsettling but I found out, it’s not impossible.

Contributing writer Jo Carson is an Attorney Ad Litem representing children in dependency-neglect proceedings in juvenile court. And a runner. She and her husband, Brad, have three adult children.

February 2017

Entertainment Fort Smith

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Women helping women run: WRA clinic set Women Run Arkansas running club helps all women get moving. WRA organizes free run/walk clinics, held for 10 weeks each spring, for women. Since the first clinic was held in Conway in 1997, more than 4,000 women of all ages have gotten moving.

From first-time walkers and runners, to runners with specific goals, the program is customized. Led by past participants who give back by volunteering, training is tweaked for each category in order to increase strength and endurance and prevent injury.

The 10-week clinics end with a huge women’s 5K run/walk in Conway on May 13.

It is an inspiring day where some complete their race, while runners from previous clinics and races return to compete and cheer on their sister athletes.

“Group A” runners from the 2016 clinic, Jo Carson in purple, kneeling.

Sign up for the Fort Smith Spring Clinic Jo Carson and her fellow Road Warriors, graduates of WRA, will speak at 6:30 p.m.

Feb. 16 at an orientation kick-off at the Riverfront Park Pavilion, 100 North B Street.

The run/walk WRA clinic begins at 6 p.m.

March 6 at the Western Arkansas Runners building, 7308 Ellis Street in the Chaffee Crossing Historic District and will meet two times a week for 10 weeks. At the end, participants will be ready for a 5K walk/run after safe, supportive training by inspiring women training coaches.

Register the first night or online at womenrunarkansas.net. The only cost is a $25 member fee that enrolls you in the May 13 race, with a race T-shirt. Go for it! Don’t let your size, age, clothes or fear be an excuse.

This diverse and welcoming running program is a sisterhood of positive encouragement.

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Entertainment Fort Smith

February 2017

Runners, volunteers and spectators team up for this gritty race Feb. 12 8 a.m. is the start time for a grueling, gritty race that will challenge every runner who enters the Fort Smith Marathon.

Those who finish the 26.2 miles winding throughout the city streets, its trail system and through its parks will have achieved a victory, whether they run to win or just to make it to the end as a personal challenge.

Runners may also choose a relay (team) race or 13.1-mile half marathon. At 9:30 a.m. Feb. 11, this third marathon event also includes a 5K Special K run with a starting line at the Fort Smith Convention Center.

A Fort Smith Marathon Runners Expo will be open each day from 10 a.m.-6 p.m., also at the Convention Center.

The main event is the marathon, which starts and finishes at the Riverfront Pavilion at 100 North B Street.

Spectators are welcome all along the route to cheer and encourage the runners, especially near challenging uphill stretches, where race officials have noted that course elevations can change by as much as 300 feet. (Consider Horan Drive or uphill on Old Greenwood Road near ArcBest!)

These and other “heartbreak hills” are the reason the marathon’s motto is “This one’s got grit!”

The marathon organization has both a website, fortsmithmarathon.org, and a Facebook presence where route maps, registration and information is available.

Volunteers may still be needed to present the race and its activities. Volunteer forms are also found at fortsmithmarathon.org

Marathon Route

The new 2017 medal’s got grit.

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Getting hands dirty leads to learning about clean eating

A

t King and Tate elementary schools in Van Buren, class time is being spent in the garden teaching about greens and grains and the importance of good nutrition.

The two schools were chosen to take part in FoodCorps, a national AmeriCorps initiative designed “to connect kids to real food and help them grow up healthy.”

In Van Buren, FoodCorps representative Mary Grace Stoneking is seeking to create an overall culture of health in the classroom and community. She is targeting school lunch menus by working with area farmers and food managers to serve locally harvested foods.

She also hopes to expand students’ food horizons by incorporating hands-on lessons that involve cooking, gardening and taste testing. Such experiences allow students to try new foods, including ones they have grown and prepared themselves.

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November 2016

Getting out in the garden and digging in the dirt has proven to be one of the program’s mosteffective methods. King students routinely work in the campus’ already-established garden. At Tate, students are mapping out the space where they will grow food.

“I am letting them help me plan the garden.

This gets them even more engaged,” she said.

Outside class time gives kids a chance to learn different aspects of growing food and its benefits. Both King and Tate also have afterschool clubs known as Sprout Scouts, which focus on gardening and teaching healthy food practices.

At King, FoodCorps supervisor Kim Doss sees additional benefits from the garden.

“Including the garden helps students know that local and in-season produce is a great way to incorporate good choices for a lifetime of health. Students benefit greatly from more time outdoors and gardening is a perfect learning tool for so many reasons,” she said.

Creativity also is key to opening kids’ minds to new food. “We have done activities such as ‘take a selfie with a fruit you love,’” said Stoneking. She has coordinated taste tests and challenges, such as having pupils make a snack using something from each food group.

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Jacob Brown, Skyler Crisel, Landon Evans and Ty Cobley planting broccoli in the King Elementary School garden.

In one instance, she brought in three types of lettuce for students to sample and then had them vote for their favorite.

“People are often surprised at how willing kids are to try the foods. They may not always like them, but they will give it a chance,” Doss said.

The teachers also are finding fun ways to teach students about healthy choices. At Tate, supervisor Wendy Crawford noted, “One of the more popular lessons has been ‘My Food Came From Dirt.’ The students have to trace something they eat all the way back to dirt and they love it.”

Doss also finds it easy to integrate nutrition across the curriculum. “It is simple to include it with all areas by just being thoughtful and creative … it could make all the difference. I want my students to live healthy, enjoyable lives and learning healthy habits are part of the whole child education that we strive to accomplish.”

At the root of FoodCorps is a commitment to tackle two of Arkansas’ major food challenges; child hunger and child obesity. Nationally, 1 in 4 children struggle with hunger, while 1 in 3 is obese or overweight. Arkansas is among the worst-ranking states for these problems.

However, for many families, nutritious foods prove too costly.

“Some students just can’t afford to eat healthy,” noted Stoneking. “Cheaper options are so unhealthy. Some students don’t even have a concept of what fruit and vegetables are.”

Stoneking hopes that each school’s crop will yield extra vegetables so students can take them home. “That way, families will see that they can grow their own food at little cost.”

VBSD is thrilled with the impact of FoodCorps and students’ positive reactions. The district hopes more schools will be able to participate in FoodCorps in the future. While the program has already benefited from the generosity of several local businesses, Stoneking hopes to make more community connections through the project. She also wants to involve more local farmers, food distributors and suppliers to provide students with greater varieties of produce.

“Volunteers are welcome to participate. We would love to host work days in the garden or other projects,” she said.

For more information about FoodCorps, visit foodcorps.org.

– Brittany Ransom

Zoe Yandell, King Elementary 4th-grader, with the first carrot harvested from the school garden.

Kayleigh Davis (above) and Ruby Whitlock eating organic lettuce at Tate Elementary.

Kaybrei Banks, in pink, and Charlee Pitchford with FoodCorps’ Mary Grace Stoneking.

November 2016

Entertainment Fort Smith

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GARDENING

A jarful of zinnia seeds is a good start in gardening

I

was probably 7 when Mrs. Prater, who had a perpetual yard sale in her front yard in Panama, Okla., saw me looking at her flowers. She sold old things like blue milk of magnesium bottles and what my mom called knick knacks. She lived right next-door to my aunt whom everyone called Sister. I was born in my Aunt Sister’s house, but that’s another story.

I just loved Mrs. Prater, who quilted with my Aunt Sister every day. Aunt Sister had a quilting rack that hung from the ceiling that took up the entire front room of her four-room house.

But this is about Mrs. Prater’s pretty flowers.

One day when I was messing around her yard, she gave me a blue glass Ball canning jar full of zinnia seeds and explained to me how to plant and water the seeds.

She called them “zinnies.” I carefully carried the blue glass jar of seeds home.

Mrs. Prater never used any chemicals but she did have a compost pile where she put her leftover vegetables, leaves and rabbit droppings.

Prettiest garden ever – healthy and clean.

Many years later, I was working for a rosarian who insisted on using every chemical possible that could be sprayed on every rose in the garden. Insecticides, fungicides – if you could buy it and it killed a bug or weed, we used it early and often.

It made for fabulous roses. However, the yard was so full of chemicals it glowed in the dark. I saw the downside but I could not convince my employer. So, I just ignored those warnings on the back of the package in small letters, 26

Entertainment Fort Smith

February 2017

Brightly colored zinnias look good in a blue mason jar or in as wild a vase as you can find.

“Environmental Hazard. This product may be toxic to fish or animals. Keep away from children and pets.” One even said, “birds feeding on treated areas may be killed.”

I will admit I was once in love with the joys of the blue fertilizer. You know the one. At home, my garden was amazing. I loved that stuff and it is so easy – just put it on your water hose and instant Eden.

My plants were in heaven. But there was one thing I did not take into account: the soil. I did not realize I was killing my soil.

Yes, your soil is alive with creatures. We spend our time trying to kill gophers, voles and moles but they really help to aerate your soil. The king of your garden is your worm population. Yes, bring on the little crown: The earth worm is the king of your garden. Did you know one earth worm can ingest, grind and digest 15 tons of soil every year? I now love the worms and other living microbes in my soil.

Fast-forward a few years and a different job.

One spring day, I walked out my back door and noticed two very busy cardinals in my nandina

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bush. They were building a nest, working almost nonstop. I became so invested in their lives. I watched the project until the day came and the eggs were there. Then, the baby birds hatched. I fell in love. Their little becks were open and the mama and daddy worked constantly to feed them.

One day, there was a storm and it rained so hard I put an umbrella over their nest. As I watched the bird parents bringing food to their babies, I realized the very creatures I was working so hard to kill in my flower bed – bugs and spiders – were the food they were feeding these sweet baby birds.

The idea Mrs. Prater and my grandma and probably your grandparents knew all along took root. I stopped using chemicals and decided I would take the natural road to gardening.

I now make my own fertilizer. I have a great recipe that’s fun to make. The key to keep a healthy garden is to give back what we take from it. Invest in your soil. Make a compost area.

I mostly just let the bugs eat what they want and I don’t use those terrifying chemicals that actually warn you to keep children and pets away. I want kids and pets around my garden! I bet you do, too. Let’s run bare-footed again.

If you don’t want to make your own fertilizers from scratch, almost all garden centers and seed catalogs carry organic products. I just researched a seaweed product that makes all kinds of fabulous claims about increased plant growth, more blooms, better flavor, speeds harvest advances yield!

This is what our February heart needs to hear.

I just put in my order, so I will let you know.

Garden writer Reba Mize mixes memories, travel, food and fun. She said she couldn’t write one more column about winter garden planning. It’s close enough to spring to look ahead to blooms!

Yes, that caterpillar, left, will eat a few rosebuds. But if you let it, it will grow into a butterfly and live to pollinate more flowers on the earth. The humble zinnia, above, is easy and blooms abundantly.

In March: Master Gardeners Lawn & Garden Show Many rely on the TV weather forecast or the Old Farmer’s Almanac but the surest sign of spring is the River Valley Master Gardeners Lawn & Garden Show. This year, spring starts March 17-19 with this enormous indoor horticultural expo.

The theme for the 2017 show is "Go Wild Gardening!" Regardless of the weather outside, the Convention Center will be transformed into springtime.

Educating the public about gardening, landscaping and other horticulture topics is the purpose of the Lawn & Garden Show.

This year, there will be an incredible slate of expert speakers.

The show features the Fort Smith Council of Garden Clubs' annual flower design show and horticulture judging; as well as the Fort Smith Art Center Photo Alliance's photography contest and display of photography competition entries.

The collective garden wisdom available at the show is deep and it seems all the gardeners and educators are glad to answer questions. Complete information about the show schedule will appear in the next issue of this magazine.

Blooms are for sale and for show at the event.

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HOME

Fun and news from your Favorite shops etting the chance to gab with all of Fort Smith’s favorite shopkeepers and merchants while taking their portraits yields a lot of news and a bit of silliness.

Everyone who visits the perennial Favorite antiques and collectibles destination knows that Joan Sloat and Marty White of the Now & Then Shoppe are friendly and gracious, but while they’re getting pictures made, they’re also funny. It’s nice to know this mom and son crack each other up.

They, like many other merchants voted “Favorites” by our readers, were off to wherever they go to gather all the treasures that Now & Then Shoppe patrons love. Joan keeps their sources a mystery so she can find them first.

Some retail store owners with their names over the door, such as Mike Barnes of Mike’s Furniture, were about to sneak away for a quick vacation after the busy holiday season.

Watch for good deals on beautiful home furnishings when he returns to Roland. He’ll be in a good mood.

Beth Templeton of Belle Starr Antiques Mall is making an exciting change – her popular antiques mall will move to a building she purchased at 410 North B Street soon.

It’s within eyesight of her current location, still close to Garrison Avenue in historic downtown. She has joined with other downtown merchants to start a new Downtown Business Association with energetic ideas for fresh promotions of shopping, dining and tourism. Her business

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Tiffany Parker enjoyed the ‘Art says’ exhibit.

neighbor will still be Designer Again, Tiffany Parker’s thriving consignment store on North 3rd Street. Tiffany’s credo to reuse/recycle/repurpose has inspired their family business to expand to a sister store called Revamp’d, at 218 Towson Avenue. Find more of the tempting vintage goods, terrific fashions and furniture there.

Creativity is off the scale at The Goods, where owner Sherry Goodrum is always transforming something tired into treasure with craft paints and other neat ideas. It’s found at 1809 Dodson Avenue. Since opening just a few years ago, The Goods also grew into their present location.

The Sewing Machine Center has a full schedule of how-to classes. Voted Favorite Make-It-Yourself place, it goes beyond sewing to programmed embroidery, quilting and fiber arts. Vinyl appliqué is the rage now. Learn to cut custom designs and apply them to almost anything.

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HOME

Opening the cake box made us weak-kneed.

Thank you, Confectionately Yours!

Custom and classic cakes and pastries are the artistry of professional baker Larry Shackelford and staff at Confectionately Yours, voted Favorite Bakery this year. Larry is our favorite fellow for at least a year now because he brought along and presented to us a beautiful and an absolutely delicious Lemon-Raspberry cake. We shared with the staff of RAM, our photoshoot location, and floated on a sugar high for the rest of the day.

After such a treat, it would have been wise to exercise with a walk at Creekmore Park or a run at Ben Geren Park or Chaffee Crossing (all named Favorites.) But we probably would have opted for a Favorite Cup of Coffee from Sweet Bay Coffee Co. Ties in our Readers’ Favorites poll can happen. This year, two automobile dealers came to a draw so we included them both in our poll results. Going alphabetically, Crain Hyundai and Orr Chevrolet-Cadillac are our readers’ Favorite Auto Dealers.

Naturally competitive, both dealers gave makes, salesmanship and service.

Alas, neither dealership left samples. We were hoping for a new ride to drive home with our cake.

Sherry Goodrum liked the permanent collection.

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home & garden goodies

Jewelry Candle Co. soy wax candles with jewelry hidden inside.

Available at Vanity Calls.

Boxed wall art, sitting heart and stuffed elephant found at Jennifer’s Gift Shop inside Sparks Medical Center.

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Vintage Coca-Cola puzzle and lamp with extra shade found at Abilities Unlimited’s new store, Something Unique in the Cloverleaf Plaza, Van Buren.

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home & garden goodies Ceramic puppy and wall decor from Designer Again.

Valentine-themed stuffed animals with a makeup bag available at Coleman Pharmacy.

Sculpture-inspired white plaster textured globe available at Furniture Emporium.

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home & garden goodies

Postcards and magnet featuring the art of Charles M. Schulz Peanuts found at the Regional Art Museum.

Cannister and large serving bowl in the mosquito pattern found at Polish Pottery in downtown Van Buren.

Tea, dip mix, carved pig bowl and Glamorous Wash fine laundry detergent from The Potting Shed in Alma.

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home & garden goodies Sweet tea candle from the Park Hill Collection and unique clips for multiple uses found at The Goods.

Specialty wafer cookies and dipping pretzels available at Paul’s Meat Market.

Six-pack of handmade bath bombs from Colquitt & Co., burlap heart decor found at Inscriptions, Baby Chic’s unicorn book with plush by JellyCat and wooden scripture hanging

by P.G. Dunn found at Hanger Management – all located at GreenPointe Shopping Center.

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home & garden goodies

Anthon Berg chocolate liqueurs, Riedel crystal champagne glasses and Moet & Chandon Rose Imperial Champagne found at In Good Spirits.

Lampe Berger home fragrance lamps, as well as a small lavender fields diffuser found at Now and Then Shoppe.

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home & garden goodies

Desks for students to executives from Mike's Furniture in Roland.

Primo Oval Junior with cooking station available at Luther Stem Pools and Spas.

LoveHearts gift pack of heart-shaped bird seed and bird-themed accent lamp found in the garden center at Neumeier Nursery & Florist.

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WHAT’S COOKING with KRISTAN ROLAND

Sweets for Your Sweet RED VELVET MILKY WAY BROWNIES Brownies 1 box red velvet cake mix 1 stick salted butter, melted 1/2 cup evaporated milk 15-20 fun size Milky Way bars Frosting 4 tbsp. salted butter 2 tbsp. unsweetened cocoa powder 3 tbsp. whole milk 1/4 tsp. vanilla extract 12⁄3 cups powdered sugar 4 oz. white chocolate, melted Heat oven to 350 degrees. Line an 8x8 square pan with foil. Spray with nonstick baking spray and set aside.

Prepare brownies: Stir together cake mix, melted butter and evaporated milk in a large bowl with a wooden spoon, until smooth.

Spread half of the batter into prepared pan.

Bake for 8 minutes.

Place Milky Way bars over the entire surface of the bars, then spoon remaining batter over the top. Spread so that the batter covers them completely (you may have to use your hands). Bake for 20 minutes. Remove from oven.

Prepare frosting: In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in cocoa powder and milk, whisking until mixture comes to a boil. Remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth. Pour over brownies, spreading evenly.

Melt white chocolate and drizzle over brownies. Cool to room temperature, then cover and chill until firm before removing foil and cutting into squares.

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SPIKED NUTELLA HOT COCOA 1/3 cup granulated sugar 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 1/2 cup hot water 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup nutella 3 cups half-and-half 2/3 cup frangelico 1/2 cup marshmallow vodka In a heavy saucepan over medium heat, whisk together sugar, cocoa and salt. Add hot water and whisk until smooth. Whisk mixture occasionally until it begins to boil.

Once boiling, whisk mixture constantly for two minutes. Add Nutella, half and half, Frangelico and Marshmallow Vodka. Whisk occasionally until heated through – do not boil.

Pour into mugs and serve.

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BLACK FORREST CHEESECAKE COOKIES 31⁄2 cups all purpose flour 2 tsp. baking powder 1 tsp. salt 2 (8 oz) packages of cream cheese, softened 21⁄2 sticks butter (20 tablespoons), softened 11⁄2 cups granulated sugar 2 large eggs 2 tsp. vanilla extract 2 dozen Oreo cookies, crushed into crumbs 1 large can cherry pie filling In a medium sized bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.

Set aside.

In the bowl of a mixer, beat cream cheese, butter and sugar on medium-high for 2 minutes. Add eggs and vanilla and mix until just combined. Reduce mixer speed to low and slowly add flour mixture.

Divide dough in half, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until firm, at least 2 hours.

Preheat oven to 350. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Roll dough into 1 1/2 inch balls, then coat completely in Oreo crumbs. Place 2 inches apart on baking sheet. Using a rounded spoon, create an indentation in the center of each cookie and place 3 cherries in the center.

Bake until cookies are cracked and set, about 13 minutes.

Cool on sheets for 10 minutes, then transfer cookies to a cooling rack to cool completely.

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CHURRO BUNDT CAKE Cake 3 cups cake flour 1/2 tsp. baking soda 1 tsp. ground cinnamon 1 cup salted butter, softened 3 cups granulated sugar 6 large eggs 3 tsp. vanilla extract

Topping 1/2 cup granulated sugar 2 tsp. ground cinnamon 6 tbsp. salted butter, melted

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Thoroughly spray a 10-12 cup Bundt pan with baking spray (the kind with flour added); set aside.

In a large bowl, combine flour, baking soda and cinnamon; set aside.

In the bowl of your mixer, cream butter and sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, 5 minutes. With the mixer on medium, add the eggs, one at a time, scraping the sides of the bowl after each. Mix in the vanilla.

With the mixer on medium-low, add 1/3 of the flour mixture. Once it's mixed in, add half of the sour cream. Repeat, scraping sides of the bowl as needed, ending with flour. Give the bowl a good stir with a wooden spoon, scraping from the bottom and making sure everything is folded in.

Pour batter into prepared pan, smoothing the top so it's even. Bake for roughly one hour, or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.

Place the pan on a cooling rack and let cool for about 20 minutes.

Carefully turn out onto rack to finish cooling. As cake cools, combine sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Brush the cake with the melted butter, and rub the cinnamon sugar all over the surface of the cake.

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Fave fashion, style and fitness sources irl, can we talk? Who does your hair?

Where did you get that outfit? And dude, where’d you get that sharplooking shave? We picked up a lot of pointers about looking good, shopping smart and feeling fit from sources chosen by readers in this year’s Readers’ Favorites poll.

Women voted in Hanger Management in GreenPointe Shopping Center as a popular place to find their fashions. Two shopping bags up! And votes prove they’ll cross the river to score at Firefly, Favorite Boutique, on Van Buren’s historic Main Street.

Fashion-conscious and financially savvy women love Designer Again, celebrating more than 25 years now and repeated readers’ endorsements.

Smart shoppers continue to recommend Jill’s Consignment to buy or to sell cute, quality children’s clothes because moms know how fast kids grow out of their good stuff. Jill mentioned that the store is 21 years old this year. Wow. Grandmas probably accounted for plenty of votes for Greenwood’s Polka Dotted Zebra for the unspoken you-can’t-top-mygrandchild competition in the category of Favorite Children’s Clothing.

You may or may not disclose your skin care secrets to the girls you like. You definitely chauffeur the girlfriends you love along to Affinity Day Spa and pay for their facial.

It was fun to see some of our fashion and beauty Favorites selections run into each

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You can’t buy fitness, you have to earn it, as these four student runners prove. Sawyer Neil, Eileen Gilker, Merrit Neil and Collin Gushing represent a Favorite Place to Run, Ben Geren Regional Park. You can’t buy youth, either, but the experts on this page can help you fake it.

other at our photo shoot opportunities at the Fort Smith Regional Art Center. People who love fashion also responded to the exhibits.

Janice Ratcliff and Rene Cormier, whose patrons voted in appreciation for their eyes for hair color, took much interest in the galleries. Metropolis Hair Studio displays Janice’s taste in original art.

Some, like Favorite Salon owner Marcie Comstock of Salon Elements, above, are excellent models, pleasing our photographer, Glenn Gilley.

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HOME Take a cue from the stylin’ staff of the Prime Time Barbershop. That pocket square. This could be their album cover.

Men can deliver beauty. Anderson Nguyen of Nails by Anderson invites his patrons to bring in nail ideas from Instagram. His clients mussed no manicures while voting heartily for Favorite Nails.

And men can be peacocks, too. Check out the Facebook page for Prime Time Barbers on Grand Avenue. Their customers get amazing designs in custom cuts and expert shaves from these sharp-dressed men (and one cool woman).

Supporting these favorite nonprofit organizations can make your insides more beautiful Our magazine’s “Favorites” are all the people who volunteer at, present or attend non-profit and cultural events and campaigns.

Who dreamed up going Over The Edge and maintains the annual most popular Survivors Challenge Race? The Donald W. Reynolds Cancer Support House team.

Who does A Night in the Caribbean help?

All children who receive therapy at The Gregory Kistler Treatment Center.

The minds who dreamed up The Unexpected Festival and Steel Horse Rally, and then made them come true? You voted for them. Who lets them use a venue? The Sound Room. Who entertains you? The dancers of The Nutcracker; the Peacemaker Music & Art Festival.

And to the thrill of our writerly hearts, who reads you a Christmas story? The Fort Smith Public Library at its annual Capote Christmas reading.

Thanks for voting for your Favorite things.

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fashion & fitness goodies Jewel La La snap bracelets from Firefly Boutique and Gifts and Farm House Fresh body butter and Resmopolitan body scrub found at Natural Treasures.

Oracal 651 and HTV vinyl machines and vinyl available at Sewing Machine Center & Fabrics.

5.31-carat London Blue Topaz yellow gold ring available at The Diamond Center.

Adjustable and padded kids ear defenders

by Snug Safe Sound from Center for Hearing Ltd.

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fashion & fitness goodies

Chunky beaded necklaces with heart charm and a big red bow from Polka Dotted Zebra.

Brighton’s Reno Heart Collection found at Greenwood Flowers & Gifts.

Moroccanoil mega volume hair products available at Salon Elements.

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fashion & fitness goodies

Dr. John Udouj is a graduate of the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies (LVI), specializing in the latest cosmetic dentistry techniques.

Visit our website at

www.perfectingyoursmile.com to get the latest news from our office.

Member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentists.

Graduate of the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies.

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fashion & fitness goodies Polarized, no bounce, no slip, no fog sunglasses by goodr from True Grit Running Co.

Blue moon orca and lotus porcupine pajama sets available at Katiebug’s Children’s Boutique.

Zoom whitening system found at Gambill Medi Spa.

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fashion & fitness goodies

Oliver Peoples Remick sunglasses exclusively at Dr. Steven B. Stiles Eye Group.

Aveda natural styling foam, hair spray and wooden brush from Metropolis Hair Studio.

Memoire' 18K diamond silk wedding rings found at Newton’s Jewelers.

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MUSIC

& performance

Come and meet those dancing feet ... on 42nd Street!

MARCH

1

Feb. 1-26 Detroit at TheatreSquared The incendiary dark comedy “Detroit” is a Pulitzer Prize finalist, New York Times Critics’ Pick and Obie Award-winner for Best New American Play. Recently laid off, Ben starts an e-business from his suburban home while his wife, Mary, keeps up a punishing commute to work. When mysterious new neighbors Sharon and Kenny arrive, they find themselves increasingly pulled toward their wild new friends – to incendiary effect. Playwright Lisa D’Amour will hold a playwriting workshop and public forum Feb. 9 at the Fayetteville Public Library. Register at faylib.org. Performances held at 2 or 7 p.m., Wednesdays-Sundays.

Tickets $15-45. TheatreSquared, 505 West Spring Street, Fayetteville, Ark. 479-783-5600 theatre2.org Feb. 4 Nitty Gritty Dirt Band Celebrating their 50th anniversary, the iconic and profoundly influential Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, often cited as a catalyst for an entire movement in Country Rock and American Roots Music, continues to add to their legendary status. With multi-platinum and gold records, strings of top 10 hits such as "Fishin' In The Dark" and "Mr. Bojangles," multiple Grammy, IBMA, CMA awards and nominations, the band's accolades continue to accumulate. $35 and up. 8 p.m. Walton Arts Center, 495 West Dickson Street, Fayetteville, Ark. 479-443-5600 waltonartscenter.org

UAFS Season of Entertainment presents the classic, Tony award-winning, quintessential backstage musical comedy, 42nd Street, the song-anddance fable of Broadway with an American Dream story built in.

The musical includes some of the greatest Broadway songs ever written, such as, "We're In The Money," "Lullaby of Broadway," "Shuffle Off To Buffalo," "Dames," "I Only Have Eyes For You" and, of course, "42nd Street."

Based on a novel by Bradford Ropes and Busby Berkeley’s classic 1933 movie, 42nd Street tells the story of a starry-eyed young dancer named Peggy Sawyer, who leaves her Allentown home and goes to New York to audition for the new Broadway musical “Pretty Lady.” When the leading lady breaks her ankle, Peggy takes over – singing and tap-dancing her way to stardom.

Ticket prices range from $39-$45. 7:30 p.m. ArcBest Performing Arts Center, 55 South 7th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-7300 uafs.universitytickets.com

Vignola & Raniolo Feb. 9 AACLive: Frank Vignola & Vinny Raniolo These two technically gifted guitarists and versatile jazz players have an amazing stage personae. Frank Vignola’s stunning virtuosity has made him the guitarist of choice for many of the world’s top musicians including Ringo Starr, Madonna, Donald Fagen, Wynton Marsalis, Tommy Emmanuel, the Boston Pops and Les Paul. Vinny Raniolo is an esteemed touring musician, studio musician, educator and arranger, and has performed some of the top venues in the world. $40. 7:30 p.m. 801 Media Center, 801 North A Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-883-9488 AACLive.com Feb. 9-12, 15-18 Sense and Sensibility An adaptation by Kate Hamill of Jane Austen’s muchloved novel revolves around love and heartbreak. Set in England in the late 1700s, this work of romantic fiction follows the Dashwood sisters, Elinor and Marianne Dashwood. When their once-wealthy family is thrust into sudden destitution, they move to a meager cottage on a distant relative’s property and are forced to seek financial security through marriage. Directed

by Micki Voelkel. 7:30 p.m. Feb. 9-11, 15-18; 2 p.m.

Feb. 12. Fort Smith Little Theatre, 401 North 6th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-2966 fslt.org

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Rhonda Vincent Feb. 11 Rhonda Vincent & the Rage This concert will benefit the Fort Smith Girls Shelter, a long-term residential treatment facility for girls ages 12-17. World class musicians, and lead singer Rhonda Vincent’s award winning voice seamlessly set the stage for a breath-taking, one of a kind, must-see performance; that reaches beyond the boundaries of blue-grass music.Reserved seating tickets are $35 and $25 and general admission seating is $20 per ticket. VIP passes include a meet and greet with Rhonda and are available from the shelter or board members for $40 (does not include price of ticket). 1800-965-9324. $20-$35. 7-9 p.m. ArcBest Performing Arts Center, 55 South 7th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-646-0444 itickets.com

Feb. 23-28 UAFS Theatre: Lysistrata When the women of Athens decide that their men have been away too long at war, they band together to stop the fighting in the only way they know how: no sex. One of the oldest written comedies in the world, and still one of the funniest, presented by the theater students of UAFS. This adaptation of Aristophanes’ play changes the setting from ancient Greece to Chicago during the Roaring ’20s. $6. 7:30 p.m.

UAFS Breeedlove Auditorium, 5120 Grand Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-7300 uafs.universitytickets.com March 3 Rockin’ Road to Dublin Rockin’ Road to Dublin is the new sensation changing the Irish Dance world with a fusion of rock and Irish dance. Rockin’ Road combines the best of both worlds to thrust Irish Dance back into the spotlight in a perfect balance between concert and stage show.

Tickets $24-$44. 7 p.m. ArcBest Performing Arts Center, 55 South 7th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-8932 itickets.com

Lysistrata Feb. 24 Tesla at Choctaw Casino CenterStage Going strong for 30 years, Tesla is touring. $55. 8 p.m.

CenterStage, Choctaw Casino Resort, 3400 Choctaw Road, Pocola, Okla.800-745-3000 ticketmaster.com

Asleep At The Wheel Feb. 11 Alma PAC: Asleep At The Wheel Since the early '70s, Asleep at the Wheel has been the most important force in keeping the sound of Western Swing alive. Reviving the freewheeling, eclectic sensibility of godfather Bob Wills, the group, led by Ray Benson, has earned enthusiastic critical praise throughout their lengthy career. They have not only preserved classic sounds that had all but disappeared from country music, but have also been able to update the music, keeping it a living, breathing art form. Ninetime Grammy Award-winners, this Texas Swing orchestra maintains a musical integrity that's never wavered. $25-$42. 8 p.m. Alma Performing Arts Center, 103 East Main, Alma, Ark. 479-632-2129 almapac.org Feb. 17 An Evening with The Hinsons Boundless, that is the word that best describes the capacity in musical talents and bright future of The Hinson Family. Since the birth of this dynamic Christian music group, each year has shown tremendous growth in its popularity and footprint in Gospel music.

Call for ticket information and dinner reservations. $5.

7 p.m. Larry's Pizza, 6400 U.S. 71 South, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-242-2400

Feb. 26 Newsboys: Love Riot Tour “God’s Not Dead Live!” tour of Newsboys, an all-new theatrical and musical experience. Price range from $18 to $100. 6 p.m. Fort Smith Convention Center, 55 South 7th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-8932 premierproductions.com March 3 Four Bitchin’ Babes These four singers have had a 25-year career on stage and in studio. The musician-actress-comediennes take turns in whimsical songs and shtick, presenting the hippest and most-luxurious girl group harmonies "evah!" $25. 7:30 p.m UAFS Blue Lion, 101 North 2nd Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-7300 uafs.universitytickets.com Four Bitchin’Babes

Keith Sweat March 10 Keith Sweat at Choctaw Casino CenterStage This R&B singer is known for being a pioneer of the New Jack Swing genre. $59. 8 p.m. CenterStage, Choctaw Casino Resort, 3400 Choctaw Road, Pocola, Okla.800-745-3000 ticketmaster.com March 11 Peacemaker Music Series: Monte Montgomery The Peacemaker Music Series is presented as a fundraiser for the Peacemaker Music & Arts Festival, planned this year for July 28-29. Held in spring, this limited series of unique and intimate musical performances will take place at the 5-Star Productions Theater located at 801 North A Street in downtown Fort Smith.

The goal of the series is to continue the Peacemaker mission of bringing a diverse music experience to the people of the Fort Smith region. The first concert is by guitarist Monte Montgomery, who developed a legion of devoted local fans when he emerged nationally in the 1990s and played here on tour with Marcia Ball.

Named one of the "Top 50 All-Time Greatest Guitar Players" by Guitar Player Magazine, he's been called everything from "guitar-god" to the "answer to the Fermi Paradox." April 22 is singer/songwriter Bob Schneider. The last concert, May 12, features the legendary Ray Wylie Hubbard. Tickets, available online, are $30 per single show or $75 for a pass to all three.

5-Star Productions Theater, 801 North A Street, Fort Smith, Ark. peacemakerfest.com February 2017

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LIVE in local clubs

Wednesdays, Larry B & the Cradlerockers at 7:30 p.m., Gilley’s at Choctaw Casino.

Choctaw Casino Resort - Pocola Guests can listen to free, live music performances while enjoying a beer or cocktail at the full-service bar.

Must be 21 or older to attend. Start times vary from 7 to 10 p.m. Gilley’s, Choctaw Casino, 3400 Choctaw Road, Pocola, Okla. 800-745-3000 choctawcasino.com February: 1 Larry B & the Cradle Rockers 2 Whipper Snapper 3 Clint Scholtz 4 Groovement 8 Larry B & the Cradle Rockers 9 Libby Stark & Bandit 10 Back In Black 11 Dead Metal Society 15 Larry B & the Cradle Rockers 16 Tom Ware Trio 17 Asphalt Cowboys 18 JB & The Moonshine Band 22 Larry B & the Cradlerockers 23 Goodluck Slim 24 Def Leggend 25 Chance Anderson Band Choctaw CenterStage Concerts February 24 TESLA March 10 Keith Sweat Please be aware that all performances are subject to change without notice. Near the performance dates, Entertainment Fort Smith recommends that you please check a venue’s provided social media or website links, or call ahead to verify appearances and admission prices. Venues which serve alcohol admit patrons 21 and older with I.D. only. Venues may submit their schedules for publication by email to calendar@efortsmith.com or ask about purchasing advertisement.

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Film Review: Leaving a Legacy

Know us by this authentic, insightful documentary This is Entertainment Fort Smith’s first film review and I write it with zero objectivity. I loved the new documentary film “Leaving a Legacy”

by Brenda Yelvington long before it premiered last month. I loved this film before I ever saw it.

About three years ago, the remarkable Brenda, whom I had known as a volunteer who taught and encouraged the casts of numerous Young Actors Guild musicals, told me she had a big idea: She wanted to make a documentary about Northside High School band.

“I want to show the world what I see at Northside,” she explained. “I’m going to follow the band for a year and I think it’s going to be feature-length. I really don’t know how to make a film,” she told me, “but I know I have to do this.”

As I am a magazine publisher with a monthly grind of production, I pictured her ambition growing by a magnitude of work that could crush one merely mortal, though admittedly resourceful, woman.

But she was not going it alone. By football season, Brenda and a crew of cameramen, a sound person and even a drone cameraman appeared on the field. On it. And over the field.

And in the band bleachers. And on the band bus. This shoot was on. She had committed her own resources for a fully professional crew plus an Emmy-winning composer, Kevin Croxton, to create a musical score. She had permission from the Fort Smith Public School District and music educators. She was filming and interviewing a handful of band kids who consented to share their personal lives.

Onward she shot, through tense All-Region and All-State Band auditions, concert season and, finally, graduation ceremonies. They should have given her a diploma, based on attendance.

Brenda had so much footage “in the can” that, again, I (privately) feared she would drown in it during the editing process. But she created a database that identified hundreds of clips by people, dialogue and action. She chose a running length and knew what the beginning and end would be.

More than a year on, I found Brenda and her fellow film editor leaning their faces into giant video monitors in a rented studio. They were starting to tell this story, frame by frame.

Every day, she made a thousand decisions and as many workarounds. Documentaries have no reshoots. Every day she had to learn more about

the process of digital film editing. But each time I checked in, Brenda held onto what she wanted the audience to see and feel. The responsibility of revealing her subjects’ lives with respect, but truthfully, was harder than the work, she said.

The raw footage was of teens contending not only with band but all of life. One student was navigating his way into, then,out of, a gang.

Another came to school tired from caring for her baby brother, nightly, while their mom worked. Twin brothers were trying to attain scholarships to help their parents send them to college. A perfectionist struggled anxiously with her own, self-imposed standards.

The year wasn’t easy for the adults, either. As summer practice began, head director Gordon Manley had a health crisis. Assistant director Aaron Durham and the teaching team were pushed up a rung. Hands-on Manley was forced into hands-off recovery.

Last month, we went to the private premiere for the cast, crew and friends. My empathy was dialed up to 11; Brenda’s anxiety, 100. That girl with high standards? Guess who her mom is.

Through the whole film, she stood in back, scanning the audience for every reaction. We laughed – at the right places. We wept, for different reasons at times.

After watching every last credit, people who had exposed their lives gave the film, and director, a sincere, tearful standing ovation.

Former superintendent Dr. Benny Gooden beelined to band directors and said, “I hired these people!” Band parents Patricia and Ronald Jones wiped their eyes and beamed at their twins. The kids, in from college, grouphugged, reunited.

Three public screenings followed. One raised thousands for a scholarship Brenda and her husband, Lavon Morton, established at UAFS for Northside students. Next, she applies to film festivals and seeks distribution. She says she doesn’t know how to do that, but ...

My review? I’m with Brenda. I, too, want the world to know Fort Smith, and Northside, by this film. It reveals what inspired her – the beauty of what happens when people risk reaching to one another in trust and respect.

– Lynn Wasson

Filmmaker Brenda Yelvington, far right, with the college students (all!) who were seniors in the film.

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KIDS EVENTS

Feb. 1-28 Critter Crunch Animal Feeding Friday and Sundays: Snake feeding. Saturdays: Fish feeding in the large aquarium. For the rest of the week, stop by to see which critter is having lunch. Free. 2 p.m. River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-3993

Feb. 1-22 Story Time Ms. Lara will read a wonderful story, everyone will sing a song and make a fun craft. Feb. 1, Curious George; Feb. 8, About Love; Feb. 15, Inventions; Feb. 22, Space. Free. 10 a.m. Wednesdays. Cedarville Public Library, 737 Pirates Way, Cedarville, Ark. 479-410-1853 Feb. 1-22 Homework Hour Ms. Margaux, the children’s librarian, will be available to help out and answer questions. Enjoy a quiet place to study with free wifi and lots of print resources. Free.

4-5 p.m. Wednesdays. Mountainburg Public Library, 1300 U.S. 71 North, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-1600

Feb. 1-22 Alma Toddler Story Time Topics this month include: Feb. 1: Cats – Pete the Cat, Splat the Cat and Cat in the Hat. Local author, Nicole Dapson will read her book “The World from Freckles’ Window.” A book signing will follow. Feb. 8: Valentine’s Day – Story and craft about love. Feb. 15: Presidents – Presidential songs, crafts and snacks. Feb. 22: Teeth – February is National Children’s Dental Health Month. There will be a story about the Tooth Fairy going to the dentist and taking care of our teeth.

The Tooth Fairy herself may appear, so invite friends for a toothtastic time. Free. 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays.

Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 Feb. 1-22 Van Buren Story Time The children will hear new stories, sing songs, make crafts, enjoy refreshments, make friends and check out some books. Feb. 22, the State Park System will visit at 11 a.m. Free. 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. Wednesdays. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045

Feb. 1-22 Mommy & Me Story time for babies and toddlers. Moms need to plan on remaining with their children. 10 a.m. Free. Mulberry Public Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226

Feb. 1-22 Wii Wednesday Tweens and teens are invited to play a different Wii game every week and have some awesome competitions. Free. 4 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140

Feb. 1-28 Mountainburg Story Time Preschool children are invited for story time with Ms. Margaux. Enjoy a story, sing and work on a craft to take home. Free. 10 a.m. Wednesdays. Free. Mountainburg Public Library, 1300 U.S. 71 North, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-1600 52 Entertainment Fort Smith February 2017

WEEK

Feb. 6 Harry Potter Week: Potions Class Double, double, toil and trouble. Fire burn and cauldron bubble. Kids are invited to learn the subtle science and exact art of potion making at the Dallas Branch Library in celebration of Harry Potter Week. Free. 3:30-5:30 p.m.

Windsor Branch Library, 4701 Windsor Drive, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-785-0405

Feb. 7 Harry Potter Week: Care of Magical Creatures Trivia Game Witches, wizards and muggles of all ages (and houses) are invited to try their wand-hand at Harry Potter trivia and show off their magical creature knowledge in celebration of the Fort Smith Public Library’s Harry Potter Week. Prizes will be awarded to the winners, including a chance to win a copy of J.K. Rowling’s newest work, “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.” Free. 5 p.m. Miller Branch Library, 8701 South 28th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-646-3945 Feb. 8 Harry Potter Week: Meet & Greet with UAFS Quidditch Team and Sorting Hat Craft The magic of Harry Potter continues! Members of the UAFS Quidditch team will be on-hand for a meetand-greet. When not visiting with the team members, participants are invited to make a Harry Potter origami Sorting Hat to determine their place – Hufflepuff? Gryffindor? Slytherin? Ravenclaw? Everyone needs a proper tie to wear before you join your house, and supplies will be provided to make one. Take your friends to this fun Harry Potter afternoon in celebration of Harry Potter Week! Free. 3:30-5:30 p.m.

Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229

Feb. 9 Harry Potter Week: Transfiguration Class and Meet & Greet with the UAFS Quidditch Team A Beginners Guide to Transfiguration class will be held for all fans of Harry Potter in Classroom 1B, where each student will receive a Hogwarts Student Activity handbook. Further magic will be provided by a special appearance by the UAFS Quidditch team – and perhaps an elusive golden snitch or two!

Take your friends and Fly, Floo or Apparate to this special event in celebration of Harry Potter Week.

Free. 3:30-6 p.m. Main Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, 479-783-0229; Windsor Branch Library, 4701 Windsor Drive, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-785-0405 Feb. 10 Harry Potter Week: Wand Making Workshop Lose your wand? Drop in and make a new one at this free open-house style event in celebration of Harry Potter Week. Free. 3:30-5:30 p.m. All Fort Smith library locations: Main Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, 479-783-0229; Dallas Branch, 8100 Dallas Street, 479-484-5650; Miller Branch, 8701 South 28th Street, 479-646-3945; and Windsor Branch, 4701 Windsor Drive, 479-785-0405 Feb. 1-28 Teen Time If you are looking for fun activities for your tweens/teens, the Van Buren Public Library hosts a variety of activities, including crafting, games and science, as well as Game Day each Wednesday. Board games are available to play and, on Feb. 15, play bingo for books. The library will be closed Feb. 20 for Presidents Day. 3:30 p.m. Wednesdays. Free. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045

Feb 1-28 Why I Love My Library Help decorate the library with love. Pick up a heart from the front desk and tell them why you love your

library. All the hearts will then be showcased on the front window. Free. Cedarville Public Library, 737 Pirates Way, Cedarville, Ark. 479-410-1853

Feb. 1-March 29 RAM Homeschool Days Homeschool students from the area are invited to visit the RAM for free programs that will teach different aspects of art making. Each program will begin with a lesson based on one specific type of art that will then be followed by a demonstration by the instructor. Students will then create their own projects in the RAM studio. Reserve your spot by sending an email to education@fsram.org. Free. 1-3 p.m. Fort Smith Regional Art Museum, 1601 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-784-2787 fsram.org

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Feb. 2 Tweens and Teens Create beautiful art out of old magazines. This magazine art craft is a cool new thing teens are doing to brighten up their bedroom walls and it’s so easy to do.

4 p.m. Free. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140

KIDS EVENTS

Feb. 2-23 Game Day Children all ages are welcome for games and crafts.

Feb. 23 is Lego Brick Builders time at 3:30 and 4 p.m.

Free play brick building will be available for those who want to build their own creations. Free. 3:30 p.m.

Thursdays. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045

Feb. 2-23 Story Time Books, songs, crafts and more for preschoolers. Free.

10 a.m. Thursdays. Mulberry Public Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226

Feb. 2-23 Crazy 8’s Club: Math Meets Mischief Children in grades 3-5 may join the Crazy 8 Club to build stuff, run and jump, make music, make a mess – it’s a totally new kind of math club. Register because supplies are limited. Free. 4 p.m. Thursdays. Mulberry Public Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226

Feb. 3 Learn to Crochet or Knit The first Friday of every month, children to adults are invited to learn crocheting or knitting. Take a project you’re working on, or, if you don’t know how, others will show you the ropes. 1 p.m. Free. Mountainburg Public Library, 1300 U.S. North, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-1600 Feb. 3-24 Nature Break A 30-minute nature activity for 3- to 7-year-olds. Free.

3:45-4:15 p.m. River Valley Nature Center 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-3993 rivervalleynaturecenter.com Feb. 3-24 Wii & Play Station Games Children, tweens and teens are invited for Wii Fun. Free. 4 p.m. Fridays. Mulberry Public Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226

Feb. 4-25 Laser Shot Sharpen your hunting skills with a computer program similar to a video game, complete with laser gun. This activity is dependent on the availability of the Multipurpose Room. Free. 3 p.m. Saturdays. River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-3993 rivervalleynaturecenter.com

Feb. 4-11 Fort Smith Express Midseason Soccer Tryouts Fort Smith Express Soccer will hold Mid-Season Tryouts for U9-U14 players who were born from 20032008. Attendance both days (Feb. 10 and 11) is required. Please email amber@fssoccer.net for additional information and necessary paperwork. $55. 11 a.m. Fort Smith Express Soccer, 7200 Zero Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-461-1071 fssoccer.net

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Feb. 4-25 RAM Saturdays Fort Smith Regional Art Museum offers a fun, handson exploration of a new medium or type of art. Participants may experiment with techniques and materials in the RAM studio and have the opportunity to make their own original works of art. Please wear art-making clothing. Feb. 4, Painted Sun Catchers. Feb. 11, Salt Painting. Feb. 18, Color and Stitch Pictures. Feb. 25, Colorful Butterflies. All ages welcome. Free. Noon-5 p.m. Saturdays. Fort Smith RAM, 1601 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-784-1787 fsram.org Feb. 4-25 Chess for Everyone Mulberry Library hopes to put together a chess team so get in on the ground floor. Help teach the kids how to play or learn to play yourself. Take a chess set if you have one. Free. 10 a.m. Saturdays. Mulberry Public Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226 Feb. 5 Archery A beginner’s guide to archery. Bows, arrows, safety tips and instructions provided. Free. 2:30 p.m. Sundays. River Valley Nature Center 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-3993 Feb. 6 Family Read Aloud Visit the library for a bedtime story. Wear PJ’s if you want! Enjoy a bedtime snack and a free book. Keep the book to finish reading it at home. Everyone can be

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home by bedtime. Free. Mulberry Public Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226 Feb. 6-27 Board Game Monday Tweens and teens are welcome for board games. Free.

3:30 p.m. Mondays. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140

Feb. 6-April 3 Community School of the Arts: Visual Arts Classes Led by artist/teacher Marianne Nicodemus, art classes explore all types of mediums from painting to drawing, to sculpting with an art exhibit at the end of the semester. A special community project is also planned for this semester. Call or visit website for more information. 4-5 p.m. Monday. St. Bartholomew's Episcopal Church, 2701 Old Greenwood Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-434-2020 csafortsmith.org

Feb. 7 Teen Craft The Mulberry Library is forming a new Teen Planning committee. Be the change you want to see. Free. 4 p.m. Mulberry Public Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226

Feb. 7 Primetime Story Time: Valentine Fun! Story time program, now held on Tuesdays, features stories, crafts, refreshments and other Valentine’s Day fun. Take your friends and join this free family friendly evening story program for kids of all ages. Free. 6 p.m.

Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org

Feb. 7-28 Baby & Me Babies, birth to age 3, and caregivers can enjoy songs, finger plays, bubbles, parachute play, a story and play time. This is an opportunity for social interaction with both babies and their adults. This program supports early literacy and language skills. 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays. Free. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045

Feb. 7-28 Toolbox Tuesdays Tweens and teens are invited to build and craft something new every week. Free. 3:30 p.m. Tuesdays. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140

Feb. 7-May 6 Seussical the Musical Jr. Students in grades 3-6 will enjoy a production of “Seussical the Musical Jr.” Led by director Adrein Parmenter and musical director Sheila Mann, this delightful show is a great way to get connected to theater.

No previous experience needed. Lots of singing, dancing and acting. Rehearsals are 4-6 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays; performances are set for early May. Tuition varies. St. Bartholomew's Episcopal Church, 2701 Old Greenwood Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-434-2020 csafortsmith.org Feb. 8 Valentine's Day Story Time Special Valentine’s Day-themed story time where kids will enjoy stories, crafts and snacks. No registration is necessary for this free program full of fun. Free.

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KIDS EVENTS

10:30 a.m. Wednesdays. Dallas Branch Library, 8100 Dallas Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-484-5650

Feb. 8-April 5 Preschool MusikGarten Community School of the Arts is now registering preschoolers for MusikGarten, a national curriculum of music and movement for very young children.

Taught by certified instructor Alice Sanders, the class explores elements of singing, rhythms, movement and music listening. For ages 1-4. Call or go online to register. 10:30-11:15 a.m. Wednesdays. St. Bartholomew's Episcopal Church, 2701 Old Greenwood Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-434-2020 csafortsmith.org Feb. 9 Valentine’s Day Party Toddlers to teens can enjoy games and crafts Valentine’s Day. Make a Blind Date with a Book. Free. 4 p.m.

Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 Feb. 9 Teen Leadership Committee Meeting Have a lively conversation and yummy snack. Teens come together to discuss and share ideas to help the library and their community. 3:30 p.m. Free. Cedarville Public Library, 737 Pirates Way, Cedarville, Ark. 479-410-1853 Feb. 10 Shadow Day Subiaco Academy, a Catholic, Benedictine boarding and day school for young men of all faiths, is hosting three spring Shadow Days for prospective students

and their parents interested in the Academy’s college preparatory junior and senior high program. The events, scheduled on Fridays, February 10, March 10 and April 7, are open to boys in grades 6-10. Prospective boarders can arrive early and experience residential life by spending Thursday night before a Shadow Day in a college-like residence hall. Overnight accommodations for parents are provided in the guest facility on campus. Activities during the event include shadowing current students to class, campus tours, and the placement exam. Information sessions for parents with members of the administration and staff will be intermingled with social and recreational activities for all participants. Free. 8 a.m. Subiaco Academy, 405 North Subiaco Avenue, Subiaco, Ark. 479-934-1034 subiacoacademy.us Feb. 10 Valentine Day Craft Tweens and teens can make a fun craft and make something for the one you love. 3:30 p.m. Free.

Cedarville Public Library, 737 Pirates Way, Cedarville, Ark. 479-410-1853

Feb. 13 Cuentos para Niños en Español Niños de todas las edades y sus familias están invitados a la Biblioteca principal a la hora de los cuentos GRATIS, incluiremos cuentos, historias, canciones, refranes y otras actividades divertidas en español. Ven y aprende acerca de la Biblioteca y lo que tiene para ofrecer a tu familia. Gratis. 6 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org

Feb. 13 Valentine Crafternoon Children of all ages are invited to an afternoon of Valentine crafting. Drop in for this seasonal openhouse style event and make a craft (or two) for someone special. There will be several activities to choose from and light refreshments will be available. Free. 16 p.m. Miller Branch Library, 8701 South 28th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-646-3945 Feb. 14 Teen Valentine’s Party After school, tweens and teens are invited to a Valentine’s party and with refreshments. 4 p.m. Free. Mulberry Public Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226

Feb. 15 Clifford the Big Red Dog Story Time Special story time features Clifford the Big Red Dog! Kids will enjoy stories, crafts and snacks at the event.

No registration is necessary for this program full of fun. Free. 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays. Dallas Branch Library, 8100 Dallas Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-484-5650 Feb. 16 Bookworms Book Club Tweens are invited to the Bookworms Book Club. The book of the month will be “Tuck Everlasting” by Natalie Babbitt. Join a fun discussion with crafts and snacks.

Pick up your copy of the next book for March. Free. 4 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140

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Feb. 16 Air Hockey Championship Game Tweens and teens can compete in an Air Hockey Championship. There will be a prize, so take your Agame. Free. 4 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 Feb. 17 Wii Games Teens and adults can play in a fun afternoon of games and laughs with friends. Take your own game console.

Free. 3:30 p.m. Cedarville Public Library, 737 Pirates Way, Cedarville, Ark. 479-410-1853

Feb. 18 Peanuts Origami Snoopy In addition to the regular RAM Saturday art programs, enjoy a special origami project in the Heartbreak in Peanuts exhibition gallery. Visitors will create their own Snoopy and his doghouse to take home with them in celebration of this exciting exhibit. Free. Fort Smith RAM, 1601 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-784-1787 fsram.org Feb. 21 Presidents Game A program and refreshments. 4 p.m. Free. Mulberry Public Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226

Feb. 23 Dog Biscuit Craft It’s Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day, and in honor of this unique day, bake and make your own dog treats.

Share the love by donating some of these creations

KIDS EVENTS

to the local animal shelter. Free. 4 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140

Feb. 23 Mardi Gras Craft Tweens and teens will be celebrating Mardi Gras this year in a big way. Make Mardi Gras bead wreaths to decorate your door. Call or register in person. Free. 4 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140

Feb. 24 Movie Time Everyone welcome to enjoy snacks and a show. See crawfordcountylib.org to see the movie trailer and synopsis. Free. 3:30 p.m. Cedarville Public Library, 737 Pirates Way, Cedarville, Ark. 479-410-1853

Feb. 25 Black Heritage Celebration featuring Tommy Terrific's Wacky Magic Show Join this inspiring, informative and entertaining celebration of African American history and heritage. This year’s all-ages event will feature magician Tommy Terrific's educational magic show about the Tuskegee Airmen. The show will be filled with magic tricks featuring things that fly, from birds to planes to rocket ships, while celebrating the first African-American military aviators in the U.S. Armed Forces. A display of library materials related to African American history and heritage will also be featured at this special Black History Month event. Free. 2 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org

Feb. 27 LEGO Club Kids, tweens and teens are invited to design, create and build unique creations with the LEGO Club. Everyone loves LEGOs; supplies are provided – just bring your imagination. Free. 5-6 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229

Feb. 27-March 3 Dr. Seuss Read Everyone can have fun at this Dr. Seuss Read, a daily event beginning on Feb. 27. Hear a variety of people throughout the community read Dr. Seuss’ books out loud to commemorate Dr. Seuss’ March birthday.

Free. 4 p.m. Mulberry Public Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226 March 4 Subiaco Academy Spring Carnival There will be kids games, inflatables, bingo, wine tasting, delicious food and a silent and live auction at this family-friendly event. Free. Tickets for games are $1.

4-9 p.m. Subiaco Academy, 405 North Subiaco Avenue, Subiaco, Ark. 479-934-1000

March 9 A Brown Bear, A Moon and A Caterpillar This show will bring together old favorites and new friends with powerful music, stunning visual effects and innovative puppetry. The show highlights three of Eric Carle's most beloved tales. Suggested for ages 3-8. School discounts available. $10-$15. 9:30 a.m.

Alma Performing Arts Center, 103 East Main, Alma, Ark. 479-632-2129 almapac.org

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CALENDAR of events

Feb. 1 A Century of Medicine in LeFlore County The LeFlore County Historical Society presents a new exhibit of A Century of Medicine in LeFlore County. It features prominent local physicians and memorabilia from their practices including medical bags, scales, instruments and other items. The exhibit shows how medicine and the medical field have changed over a century. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. LeFlore County Historical Society Museum, (the historic Lowery Hotel), 303 Dewey Avenue, Poteau, Okla. 918-647-9330 Feb. 1 Adult Book Club Join a group to discuss a book of the month and pick up a copy for next month’s meeting. Registration is required. 10 a.m. Free. Mulberry Public Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226 Feb. 1-28 CAE Open Studio Every Wednesday, the Center for Art & Education’s Open Studio program invites artists to meet, share ideas, techniques and resources. Week one is an art demo; week two has an artist talk, week three has a live model and week four is a critique of work. On Feb. 1 Sean Fitzgibbon will present a demo of his mixed media process. Free. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Center for Art & Education, 104 North 13th Street, Van Buren, Ark, 479-474-7767 art-ed.org

A group of friends socializes in a Fort Smith night club.

Fort Smith Museum of History Highlights Black History Month with exhibit of local life FEBRUARY

1-28

In celebration of Black History Month, the Fort Smith Museum of History's exhibit featuring notable citizens, businesses, churches and schools from Fort Smith’s African American community will be displayed in the large, second-floor event room.

Learn life stories and see photographs of locally significant citizens such as the Trent family, the Price-Wilson-Longley family, Lawrence Tidwell, Annie Justice, Bert Stewart and many others. Photographs include memories of the respected Lincoln High School, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and other subjects that provide a glimpse of life during segregation in Fort Smith. The exhibit was created through images, historical information and artifacts shared or loaned by local citizens and their descendants.

Museum admission: $7 adults, $2 children, under 6 are free. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. TuesdaySaturday. Fort Smith Museum of History, 320 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-7841 fortsmithmuseum.org

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Feb. 1-28 Art Exhibition: Grace Academy Students The artwork of student artists from Grace Academy will be on display. Under the direction of art teacher Amy Scoggins, junior high and high school students made paintings and charcoal drawings. A reception will be held from 2-5 p.m. Feb. 2. Grace Academy Fort Smith offers academic and enrichment classes for home-educated students. Free. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 Feb. 1-28 Paintings by Lisa Jan-Bohné Clay The artwork of Lisa Jan-Bohné Clay will be featured at Dewey’s Café. The artist’s recent study of work has moved toward impressionism. Clay studied art at the Memphis Academy of Art and Arkansas State University. She continued in independent study under Roger Carlisle and John Keech. The artist has displayed in galleries in Augsburg, Germany, San Antonio and Little Rock. Free. Dewey's Cafe at the Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 Feb. 1-28 Miller Branch Library Artist of the Month Dennis Russell Huntington photographer Dennis Russell will showcase his photos of local landscapes from Arkansas and Oklahoma. After becoming affected by a lifechanging disability, Russell looked for some way to enrich his life; photography seemed to fit his love of the outdoors, and the ability to share it with others.

Russell began taking photos seriously after taking a class taught by Carroll Copeland; he then joined the Fort Smith Photographic Alliance. He has local contests and his photos are featured in local businesses and homes. Miller Branch Library, 8701 South 28th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-646-3945

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Feb. 1-28 Arkansas African American Legislators: 1868-1893 A professional exhibit created by the Black History Commission of Arkansas and the Arkansas History Commission will be on display in February. This special exhibit honors the African Americans who made up a significant part of Arkansas’ legislature during the post-Civil War era. Windsor Branch Library, 4701 Windsor Drive, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-785-0405 Feb. 1-28 Adults Color Too! Who said coloring is just for kids? Coloring helps with relaxation and stress relief. Unwind while engaging in the creative process in a friendly, casual atmosphere.

Coloring pages for adults and colored pencils are provided by the library and are available during all library hours. Free. Windsor Branch Library, 4701 Windsor Drive, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-785-0405 Feb. 1-28 Blind Date with a Book During February, the Van Buren Public Library will set up readers on a blind date with a book. Check out your date and read it to see if it’s a perfect match. Readers may end up having a great read with something they wouldn't have chosen for themselves. With each book is a “Rate a Date” slip. Rate how well your date went to enter a prize drawing. Free. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 Feb. 1-28 Blind Date with a Book Be daring, go on a blind date with a book. Choose from a selection of covered books, check one out and perhaps discover a new author to love. Free. Cedarville Public Library, 737 Pirates Way, Cedarville, Ark. 479-410-1853 Feb. 1-April 2 Liv Fjellsol: Art Says Exhibit of the work of artist Liv C. Fjellsol, who works internationally from her rural workplace, Atelier Fjellsol, in Norway. Fjellsol observes people and society with great interdisciplinary interest and uses her art to express her views on contemporary society. This exhibition shows a large selection of her newest work “Art Says.” Free. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday. Fort Smith Regional Art Museum, 1601 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-784-2787 Feb. 2 Community Celebration of the Golden Rule A gathering of people from all traditions and backgrounds to celebrate what we have in common: The Golden Rule. Take canned food donations. Hosted by Interfaith Fellowship and UAFS Cultural Network. Free.

7-8 p.m. UAFS Latture Conference Center, 50th Street and Grand Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. Facebook/InterfaithFellowship Feb. 2 Alzheimer’s Class Shyfa Hooks of the Alzheimer’s Association provides information about Alzheimer’s disease and teaches how to support those facing the disease. February’s “The Basics” discusses detection, causes, risk factors, stages and treatment of Alzheimer's disease. 1 p.m.

Free. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045

Feb. 2-23 RAM Drop In and Draw Every Thursday afternoon, drop by the art museum for a chance to hone your skills. RAM provides a live model and studio space for artists. Take your own art supplies; easels are provided. Free. Noon-4 p.m. Fort Smith RAM, 1601 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-784-1787 fsram.org Feb. 3 First Friday Friends: Letters to Juliet (PG) and Valentine Making Party Expand your circle of friends at this monthly program of fun activities and social time for adults. Enjoy a film “Letters to Juliet” (PG) and make Valentines. Coffee and light refreshments available. Free. 10:30 a.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 Feb. 3-24 Fiber Friday Gather for knitting, crocheting and stitching. Take what you are working or learn as a beginner. Stitch, share, teach and learn with each other. 2 p.m. Free. Mulberry Public Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226 Feb. 3 & 17 Redwork Redwork is a form of embroidery that uses floss to learn redwork take these items: embroidery needle, embroidery loop, floss, envelopes and a shoe box.

12:30-2:30 p.m. Free. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140

Feb. 4 TrailBlazers Hiking Club: The Arkansas Sphinx The club will hike to the Arkansas Sphinx and Pam's Grotto. The Arkansas Sphinx is a sandstone monolith in the Ozark Mountains. It will be a short, strenuous climb straight up for 900 feet. Next, visit Pam’s Grotto, a 1-mile round trip that requires another climb to a 35-foot waterfall guarded by a house-size rock. Hikers will also see Haw Creek Falls. Take lunch and water.

Meet at Cloverleaf Plaza parking lot at 8 a.m. to carpool/caravan. Ozark National Forest, Highway 123, Near Hagarville, Ark. 479-646-9562 thcfs.com Feb. 4 Polar Plunge for Special Olympics Take a chilly dip or sponsor a braver soul for this Special Olympics fundraiser. They’re jumping into the unheated pool! Maybe buying an “I Chickened Out” T-shirt is easier. Prizes for best costume, most money raised and oldest plunger. Register or pledge online.

With parental permission, youth 12 and up may take the plunge, too. Special Olympics Arkansas provides free sports training and athletic competition to encourage fitness and joy in children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Contact Capt. Danny Baker at dbaker@fortsmithpd.org. 10 a.m. World Class Fitness, 6206 South 31st Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-739-8349 specialolympicsarkansas.org Feb. 4 WAMN Training Class: Soils and Ecoregions Western Arkansas Master Naturalists (WAMN) presents a series of classes geared for Naturalists in Training and taught by a variety of college professors and field experts. Classes are from 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; lunch is held from noon-1 p.m. Arkansas River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Van Buren, Ark. 479-452-3993 Feb. 4 Guided Hike A member of the education staff lead a hike every Saturday. Dress for the weather and take a camera. Free.

10 a.m. River Valley Nature Center 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-3993 rivervalleynaturecenter.com

Jeannie Stone

Feb. 3-15 CAE Art Exhibitions “Reconstructing the Arkansas Landscape” by Jeannie Stone opens Feb. 3 with a reception from 6-8 p.m.

Feb. 10. Stone’s impressionistic oil landscapes have bold colors and painterly strokes to interpret the Arkansas landscape with energy and spontaneity. In the studio gallery, “Forests of Perception” includes works of Sean Fitzgibbon and Virmarie Depoyster. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday. Free. Center for Art & Education, 104 North 13th Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-7767 art-ed.org Feb. 3-March 3 Yoga For Special Needs Yogaterrium teams with The New Normal (a local special needs group) to offer a monthly yoga class for individuals with autism, disabilities and other special needs. The 30-minute yoga class covers basic yoga poses, breathing and relaxation. Classes are the first Friday of the month, open to ages 8 and up. Parents or caregivers are encouraged to attend. Yoga mats and props provided at no charge. $5. 4-4:30 p.m. Yogaterrium, 2712 Grand Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-459-2187 yogaterrium.com

Feb. 4 Runners Workshop Leaders from the Women Run Arkansas Spring Clinic will be discussing speed work, cross training, trail running, goal setting and running drills. This workshop is for woman and men of all ages. Free. 1-3 p.m.

World Class Fitness, 6206 South 31st Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-629-3600 wcfit.com Feb. 4 Pardi Gras The Fort Smith Museum of History throws a new winter fundraiser, Pardi Gras! The new version of its traditional Mardi Gras features the band Full House, a premier horn band from Fayetteville, playing rock and roll for dancing. A new venue, the former Shipley Baking Co., a downtown landmark, will be transformed into a unique party environment for the evening. The "pardi" begins with cocktails and the music of Don Bailey followed by a Cajun dinner, live auction and dancing to the music of Full House. Tickets are $100 per person; tables for 10 are $1,000. Dinner and drinks are included. 6 p.m. Shipley Baking Company, 52 South 7th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-7841 fortsmithmuseum.org February 2017 Entertainment Fort Smith 59

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Feb. 4-5 Battle at the Fort Volleyball Tournament The annual volleyball tourney sponsored by the Fort Smith Juniors continues with the 10-14 age division.

Watch top competition when teams from several states face off. 7 a.m.-10 p.m. each day. Fort Smith Convention Center, 55 South 7th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. fortsmithjuniors.com Feb. 5 First Tee Touchdown Throw-Down This Super Bowl party includes food, dessert and drinks, a game board and give-aways each quarter. $30. Benefits youth golf programs. 6 p.m. The First Tee Fort Smith, 5800 Ben Geren Road, Fort Smith, Ark. thefirstteefortsmith.org

Posters share exhibits and artifacts in the national museum in Washington.

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A Place for All People, a historic poster exhibit celebrating the opening of the newest Smithsonian museum, the National Museum of African American History and Culture, will visit the Windsor Branch Library.

The African American story is one characterized by pain and glory, power and civility, enslavement and freedom. A Place for All People evokes the power of oration and freedom stories, the brilliance of artistic achievement, and the soaring heights of cultural expression, philosophy, sports and politics. In addition to profiling the long struggle to create the museum, the building’s architectural design and its prominent location on the National Mall, the exhibit is a survey of the African American community’s powerful, deep and lasting contributions to the American story. Free. Windsor Branch Library, 4701 Windsor Drive, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-785-0405 fortsmithlibrary.org

Feb. 6 Refuge Recovery Meeting Refuge Recovery, a Buddhist-based recovery program, will hold meetings every Monday for anyone struggling with addiction to substances or behaviors.

Class is court-approved, similar to AA or NA meetings.

Find the power to overcome self -harming behaviors.

Free. 7-8 p.m. Yogaterrium, 2712 Grand Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-459-2187 yogaterrium.com Feb. 6-27 Adult Coloring Every Monday, relax a bit before picking the kids up from school. Pictures, pencils and markers provided.

2 p.m. Free. Mulberry Public Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226 Feb. 6-27 Affordable Dance Lessons The Diamond Dance Club keeps the spirit of dance going in honor of founders Jim and Betty Farmer. Anyone may learn to dance at weekly dance lessons and a low-cost, third Friday social dance. Held on the largest wooden dance floor in the River Valley. Instructors teach dance lessons in many Latin, ballroom, country, swing and polka styles. Lessons or monthly dance, $5 per dancer. 6:30 p.m. Eagles Ballroom, 3371 South 66th Street, Eagle Lane, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-674-2578 fortsmithballroomdancers@sbcglobal.net

The dress at right was worn by Arkansan Carlotta Walls to Little Rock Central High School in 1957.

Feb. 7 Diabetes Academy Lisa Roling of Novo Nordisk will present a Diabetes Academy given by a certified diabetes educator to teach about managing the disease. Free. 10 a.m.noon. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 Feb. 9 Adult Craft Party March is the month of wind and breezes so let’s embrace it and make a craft that we can see flowing in the wind. Make a ribbon wind sock. Register by Feb. 2. Free. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 Feb. 10 Owl Prowl Take a stroll along Wells Lake and Beaver Creek Trail.

Search for, and try to call in, the most famous creatures of the night. Please bring a flashlight for the walk back. Free. 6 p.m. River Valley Nature Center 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-3993 rivervalleynaturecenter.com 60

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Gen. William O. Darby Birthday Celebration

In celebration of the birthday of the Fort Smith native and founder of Darby’s Rangers, researcher Mark Potter will present a program utilizing an analysis of essays written during Cadet Darby’s early years at West Point. The early essays will be compared to General Darby’s later leadership skills during Col. Darby receives a military decoration in the field. his successful military career. Visitors may also enjoy a piece of birthday cake in the museum’s authentic soda fountain.

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The museum updated the Gen. William O. Darby exhibition to include his early life in Fort Smith and education at West Point, his years as a soldier and the lasting legacy of the wellknown founder of the modern Army Rangers.

Videos on Gen. Darby and Maj. Warren "Bing" Evans, an original Darby's Ranger, are available in the theater in the Darby Room, as well as a cell phone audio tour written and narrated by the general's nephews, Darby and Presson Watkins.

Feb. 10 BINGO for Books Play bingo, meet new friends and win books. All players go home with at least one book. 10 a.m. Free. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 Feb. 10, 24 Writers Group Meet with other writers to share original work, give encouragement, offer suggestions and share tips.10 a.m. Free. Mountainburg Public Library, 1300 U.S. North, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-1600 Feb. 10, 24 Redwork Have fun and make new friends in a redwork embroidery class. All experience levels are welcome. Take your own supplies. Free. 1-3 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 Feb. 11 TrailBlazers Hiking Club: Sam’s Throne TrailBlazers Hiking Club will hike to Sam's Throne, one of the premier climbing spots in the Ozarks. Start out at Chicken Point, then down and across the valley floor to Sam’s Throne, climb the crack to the top and enjoy the great views of the surrounding bluffs, valley and mountains. This is a moderate hike of about 4 miles. Take lunch and water. Meet at Cloverleaf Plaza parking lot at 8 a.m. to carpool and/or caravan. Ozark National Forest, Highway 123, near Mount Judea, Ark. 479-646-9562 thcfs.com

William Orlando Darby was born in Fort Smith on Feb. 8, 1911, to Percy and Nell Darby. A natural leader, from a young age Darby desired to be a soldier. Following graduation from Fort Smith High School in 1929, he received an appointment to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. After graduation in 1933, Darby was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 82nd Field Artillery of the First Cavalry at Fort Bliss, Texas.

Feb. 11 WAMN Training Class – Birds and Archeology Western Arkansas Master Naturalists (WAMN) presents a series of classes geared for its Naturalists in Training and taught by a variety of college professors and field experts. Classes are from 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; lunch is held from noon-1 p.m. Arkansas River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Van Buren, Ark. 479-452-3993

Following Pearl Harbor, Darby was selected to train an elite combat unit known as Darby's Rangers. The 1st U.S. Army Ranger Battalion was activated on July 9, 1942. Darby’s Rangers distinguished themselves in combat in North Africa and Europe. Col. Darby was killed in action on April 30, 1945, at Torbole, Italy, and posthumously promoted to brigadier general on May 15, 1945. He was buried in a military cemetery outside of Cisterna, Italy, and reinterred at the Fort Smith National Cemetery in 1949.

Feb. 11 Gong Song Jamie White will be offering the mysterious song of the gongs, singing bowls, bells and more. $25. 1-2:30 p.m. Yogaterrium, 2712 Grand Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-459-2187 yogaterrium.com

During his career, Darby received three Purple Hearts, two Distinguished Service Crosses, the Silver Star, the Legion of Merit, the Russian Order of Kutuzov and the French Croix de Guerre.

Army Rangers of today honor his legacy. Among the many things named for him are Darby Junior High School in Fort Smith, the troopship USNS General William O. Darby, Camp Darby in Italy and many Army training fields. A 1958, Warner Brothers film "Darby's Rangers," starred James Garner as the general. Cisterna and Fort Smith are sister cities in memory of Darby and his Rangers. In 2016, former Rangers, active Rangers and others donated funds to erect a statue of Darby, mounted on a military motorcycle, on Fort Smith’s Garrison Avenue at a park called Cisterna Plaza.

Museum admission: $7 adults, $2 children, under age 6 are free. Military discount available.

Program and birthday cake, 1-3 p.m. Fort Smith Museum of History, 320 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-7841 fortsmithmuseum.org 62

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Feb. 11 Author Talk and Book Signing Talya Tate Boerner brings rural, Southern fiction set in the early 1970s to life in her first novel, “The Accidental Salvation of Gracie Lee,” set in northeast Arkansas. The author will speak and sign books. Boerner grew up on a cotton farm in Missis- Talya Tate Boerner sippi County. After working 25 years in Dallas, she has settled in Fayetteville. She blogs at Grace, Grits and Gardening and has been published in Arkansas Review, Front Porch Magazine, Delta Crossroads and on-line publications including Deep South Magazine. Her novel won the 2016 FAPA President’s Award and 2016 Readers’ Favorite Award for Fiction. Books will be available. 10 a.m. Center for Art & Education, 104 North 13st Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-7767 art-ed.org

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Feb. 11 Good Samaritan Clinic’s Best Night of the Year An evening of dining, entertainment, dancing, charitable auctions and surprises will support health care for all. The Good Samaritan Clinic provides access to quality healthcare for low-income working individuals, their families, homeless citizens and patients facing extraordinary life circumstances, in the name of Jesus Christ. The clinic is not federally funded. It served more than 4,000 patients in 2015. The theme is blacktie optional with an emphasis on Sci-Fi Victorian attire. $20 after-party tickets are still available for the KLOCKS concert and dance, with a drink ticket included. 7:45 p.m. dance party. Golden Living, 1000 Fianna Way, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0233 goodsamaritanfs.com Feb. 11 Crystal Bridge Black Hearts Ball Leave the rom-coms at home this year for a night of museum adventures and off-the-wall encounters with art and performance. Bust a move with live music in Eleven and also explore the galleries of art. A first drink and nosh is free for ticketholders, then visit cash bars.

Must be 21+ to attend. Register online or by phone.

Free for artfusion members. $45. 9 p.m. Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, 600 Museum Way, Bentonville, Ark. 479-418-5700 crystalbridges.org Feb. 11-12 Fort Smith Marathon For the third year, this growing marathon, halfmarathon and relays will be run throughout the city.

The USATF-certified course is scenic and challenging and includes historic downtown, the city’s trails system, Chaffee Crossing and Ben Geren Regional Park.

Register to race or volunteer or be an encouraging spectator. Feb. 11 is a Special Kay 5K run. Register for all online. Race starts downtown and includes a runners expo. Riverfront Park, 121 Riverfront Drive, Fort Smith, Ark. fortsmithmarathon.com Feb. 11-25 Arkansas Art Educators Western Regional Art Show Enjoy the art of Arkansas students. The Arkansas Art Educators Western Regional Art Show consists of student artwork from Crawford, Franklin, Sebastian, Johnson, Logan, Yell, Scott, Montgomery, Pope and Polk counties in grades K-12 public and private schools. Best of Show winners will go on display at the Hillary Rodham Clinton Children’s Library and Learning Center in Little Rock. Free. 10 a.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-462-8477 fortsmithlibrary.org Feb. 13 The Embroidery Guild of Fort Smith People with all experience levels are welcomed to join the embroidery guild. This month's project is called Mystery Project Part 2. Provide your own basic embroidery supplies. Free. Refreshments served. Free.

10 a.m.-2 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Ave., Fort Smith, Ark. 479-646-2759 Feb. 13 Adult Coloring Club Think coloring is just for kids? Not anymore. Relax and color the stress away. Take your own supplies or use the library’s. 11a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 64

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Feb. 13 Book Talk Discuss the book “Same Kind of Different as Me” by Ron Hall and Denver Moore. Pick up a copy of the book in advance (limited copies available). 7 p.m.

Free. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 Feb. 14 Book Talk: My Grandmother Asked Me to Tell You She's Sorry by Fredrik Backman Elsa is 7 years old and different. Her grandmother is 77 years old and crazy, standing-on-the-balcony-firing-paintball-guns-at-men-who-want-to-talk-aboutJesus-crazy. She is also Elsa's best, and only, friend.

At night, Elsa takes refuge in her grandmother's stories, in the Land of Almost-Awake and the Kingdom of Miamas where everybody is different and nobody needs to be normal. When Elsa's grandmother dies and leaves behind a series of letters apologizing to people she has hurt, Elsa's greatest adventure begins.

Her grandmother's letters lead her to an apartment building full of drunks, monsters, attack dogs and totally ordinary old crones, but also to the truth about fairy tales and kingdoms and a grandmother like no other. This novel is told with the same comic accuracy and beating heart as Backman's internationally bestselling debut novel, “A Man Called Ove.” It is a story about life and death and an ode to one of the most important human rights: the right to be different. 6 p.m.

Free. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 Feb. 14 United Way 1 Billion Rising Rally Every February, thousands of Risings take place in countries across the world and within local communities – to show the world what 1 billion looks like and shine a light on the injustice that survivors of various forms of violence face. There will be information tables around the UAFS Bell Tower where attendees can get information from local agencies that provide services related to this issue. Hot dogs and drinks will be provided. At noon, prior to a dance and walk, local dignitaries and survivors of domestic violence will speak.

United Way of Fort Smith is partnering with the UAFS and the Donald W. Reynolds Crisis Intervention Center for this event. 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. University of Arkansas-Fort Smith Bell Tower, 5210 Grand Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-782-1311 unitedwayfortsmith.org Feb. 14 Classic Movie Night: Cheaper By the Dozen (PG) Valentine’s Day is a day to celebrate the ones you love.

Take your family, a special someone or yourself to a free showing of the classic 1950s movie “Cheaper by the Dozen” (PG). Light refreshments will be provided at this dramatic comedy about an extraordinary family, perfect for the whole family. Free. 6:30 p.m. Miller Branch Library, 8701 South 28th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-646-3945 fortsmithlibrary.org Feb. 14 Sweetheart Carriage Rides Circle L Ranch offers carriage rides on Valentine's Day only. Lap blankets provided. Board the carriage at 4th Street and Garrison Avenue. No reservations. First come, first served. $20 per couple. 7-9 p.m. Sweetheart Carriage Rides, 4th St. And Garrison Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 918-207-5487 February 2017

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Feb. 15 Fort Smith Public Library Writing Club Writers of all ages and backgrounds, from teens to seniors, are invited to participate in the Fort Smith Public Library Writing Club. Take a laptop or a pad of paper along with your creativity and love for writing.

Together, members will create a meeting style the group finds most encouraging to writers. Free. 4-5 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229

Heartbreak in Peanuts Opening Reception Love is everywhere in Peanuts – Charlie Brown loves the Little Red-Haired Girl, Lucy adores Schroeder, Sally pursues Linus – but sadly these sentiments are rarely returned.

This exhibition features 50 high-quality digital reproductions of original Peanuts comic strips that focus on lost love. Onesided love stories include Sally and her “Sweet Babboo,” Snoopy left standing at the altar and Charlie Brown’s mission to meet the Little Red-Haired Girl. Exhibit open through April 16. General admission to the museum is free. Reception, $5 for the public, free for members. 5-7 p.m. Fort Smith Regional Art Museum, 1601 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-784-2787 fsram.org

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Feb. 14-March 16 Conversational Spanish Level II Learn to speak conversational Spanish with an instructor willing to customize the class according to the needs of the individual participants. If students need industrial vocabulary, the instructor will develop a curriculum to address those needs. $80. 6-7:50 p.m.

Tuesdays and Thursdays. Fort Smith Adult Education Center, 501 South 20th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-785-1232 adulteducationfortsmith.com Feb. 15 Nutrition & Cancer: Head and Neck Cancers Ryan Ellison, RD, LD will discuss feeding tube use and related information. Free. 11:30 a.m.-: p.m. Donald W. Reynolds Cancer Support House, 3324 South M Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-782-6302 ReynoldsCancerSupportHouse.org Feb. 15 Healthy Exercise The Crawford County Extension Office teaches how exercise can help you feel your best. Free. 1 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 Feb. 15 Alzheimer's Association: Effective Communication Learn how to have effective, caring conversations about doctor's visits, driving or finances. Shyfa Hooks presents a program to create openness among family members in their talks with loved ones with dementia.

Free. Noon. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 66 Entertainment Fort Smith February 2017

Feb. 16 8th Annual VBHS Empty Bowls For the ticket price, guests are invited to pick out a handmade ceramic bowl made by Van Buren High School students and partake in a symbolic dinner of soup and bread from their special bowl. After dinner, the bowl will be washed so that it may be taken home as a reminder of the "empty bowls" throughout our community and the world. Money raised from ticket sales will be donated to the Meals for Kids Backpack program of the River Valley through the Community Services Clearinghouse. Empty Bowls is an international effort to raise awareness and funds for food insecurity in our community. Attending is a great way to support young people helping other young people through art, charity, food and community. $15. 5:307:30 p.m. Van Buren High School Commons, 2001 Pointer Trail, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6821 Feb. 16 How to Find a Job: Expert Tips and Techniques Anyone currently unemployed or underemployed may get expert advice. Learn how to look for a job and create or update a resume in this free program co-sponsored by the Fort Smith Public Library and Go Ye Employment Services. Go Ye staff will share job hunting techniques and resources to help participants improve their chances of landing the jobs they pursue.

This is the first in a series of monthly job hunting programs to be offered in cooperation with Go Ye. Call or go to the main library to suggest topics for future jobseeking programs in this series. Free. 10:30 a.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org Feb. 16 Book Club: “Orphan Train” by Christina Baker Cline From 1854-1929, so-called orphan trains ran regularly from East Coast cities to the MIdwest’s farmlands, carrying thousands of abandoned children whose fates would be determined by luck or chance. Would they be adopted by a kind and loving family, or would they face a childhood and adolescence of hard labor and servitude? Moving between contemporary Maine and Depression-era Minnesota, this is a powerful tale of resilience, second chances and unexpected friendship. 1:30 p.m. Free. Cedarville Public Library, 737 Pirates Way, Cedarville, Ark. 479-410-1853 Feb. 16 Open Mic Night at Dewey’s Café Enjoy or perform in a casual open mic night at Dewey’s Café. All ages of musicians, poets and other talented folks are invited to perform. Register at the door; arrive early to ensure a spot on the list. Music or poetry does not have to be original work – share a favorite poem or perform a song. Acoustic music only, please. Free. 7 p.m. Dewey's Cafe at the Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229

Feb. 16 Jaycees Networking Happy Hour Young professionals aged 21-40 are invited to a Networking Happy Hour with free appetizers and door prizes. The Fort Smith Jaycees is focused on community involvement, personal/professional development and networking. Free. 6-8 p.m. Grub's Bar and Grille, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-755-6620 fortsmithjaycees.org Feb. 17 Diamond Dance This is a monthly social dance that includes ballroom, Latin, country, disco, swing and line-dancing in a relaxing social environment. No membership required.

Smoke-free environment; attire is dressy casual. Adult beverages available. $5. 8-10 p.m. Eagles Ballroom, 3371 South 66th Street, Eagle Lane, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-674-2578 Feb. 17 Lunch Docs: Meru (R) In this film, three expert mountain climbers document their journey climbing the Shark's Fin peak of Mount Meru in India, struggling with depleting rations and sub-zero temperatures as they make a climb considered challenging to the most experienced. Take or purchase lunch at Dewey’s Café. Free. Noon. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org Feb. 17 Opening Exhibition Lecture: Richard Misrach Photographer Richard Misrach will provide an overview about the artistic process of this new exhibition, Border Cantos, and his collaboration with artist Guillermo Galindo, on display through April 24. Misrach discusses inspirations found on the MexicanAmerican border, stories he collected from migrating peoples, and the role of art in political discourse. Border Cantos, a unique collaboration between American photographer Misrach and Mexican composer Galindo, harnesses the power of art to explore, share and humanize the complex issues surrounding the borderlands between the United States and Mexico.

Responding to these photographs, Galindo fashioned sound-generating sculptures from items Misrach collected from the border, such as water bottles, Border Patrol “drag tires,” spent shotgun shells and sections of the border wall itself. The sounds they produce give voices to people through the personal belongings they have left behind. Free. Register online for 7 p.m. talk.

Museum open Monday-Sunday, hours vary. Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, 600 Museum Way, Bentonville, Ark. 479-418-5700 crystalbridges.org

Wall, East of Nogales, Arizona, 2014 El muro, al este de Nogales, Arizona Pigment print 60 × 80 in. Courtesy of the artist

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS in self-defense? Jury members chosen from the audience will listen to witness testimony taken from the actual trial transcripts and make their own decisions.

Will they agree with the original jury? The historic verdict will be revealed after their decision. Guests will also be able to view a pistol that once belonged to Henry Starr, on display inside Judge Parker’s courtroom. Starr, who once gave silent film a try and portrayed himself as a bad man in “A Debtor to the Law,” is one of the more colorful defendants ever tried in the Federal Court of the Western District of Arkansas.

Though he claimed several periods of reformed behavior, Starr was to die ultimately as a consequence of his criminal behavior. Purchase tickets, $7, by Feb. 12 at the National Historic Site from noon-4 p.m. or by phone at 479-831-9274. 7 p.m. Feb. 17. 8 p.m.

Feb. 18. Fort Smith National Historic Site, 301 Parker Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-3971

Feb. 17 Using Your Online Promotional Toolbox This fast-paced workshop will highlight free and lowcost online tools to promote a business. Get tips for using a business website, social media, email marketing and other online tools to attract and delight an audience. This workshop will be held during the Greater Fort Smith Association of Home Builders’ 2017 Home Show and is open to the public with limited seating. Registration by phone or online is recommended by no later than Feb. 16. Free. 10-11 a.m.

Kay Rodgers Park Expo Center, 4400 Midland Boulevard, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-356-2067 asbtdc.org/training/russellville-events Feb. 17-19 2017 Home Show The Greater Fort Smith Association of Home Builders 2017 Home Show will be held at a new location, Kay Rodgers Park Expo Center. Hundreds of products and services will be on display with friendly professionals on site to discuss new home building and renovation and answer questions about new products and local services for the home. Vendors may offer products as diverse as home decor items or bath fixtures to floor coverings to storm shelter structures. Local high school students will compete in a live, on-site buildoff. DIY classes, expert lectures and seminars will be taught by member builders and vendors. Enjoy a Chefs Challenge cookoff competition. Kids can enter a Lego contest. Admission for adults is $5 with free parking. Kids 17 and under are free. Noon. Kay Rodgers Park Expo Center, 4400 Midland Blvd., Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-6213 fortsmithhomebuilders.com

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Feb. 17-19 Whit's Marine In-House Boat Show This in-house event features Tracker Boats and SunTracker Pontoons. See the full line all under one roof.

Free. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Whit's Marine, 823 North 11th St., Fort Smith, Ark. 479-785-5985 whitsmarine.com Feb. 17-18 The Trial of Henry Starr: Night Court The Friends of the Fort will present a historic re-enaction of the trial of Henry Starr, which took place in Fort Smith in 1893. Did Starr know he was firing at a lawman when he shot and killed Floyd Wilson, a family man pursuing Starr along with U.S. Deputy Marshal Henry Dickey, or did he believe he fired at a stranger

Feb. 18 WAMN Training Class: Astronomy and Insects Western Arkansas Master Naturalists (WAMN) presents a series of classes geared for Naturalists in Training and taught by a variety of college professors and field experts. Classes are from 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; lunch is held from noon-1 p.m. Arkansas River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Van Buren, Ark. 479-452-3993

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Feb. 18 The Arc's Mardi Gras Dance Enjoy a DJ, dinner and dancing, all to benefit The Arc for the River Valley, which provides advocacy, education and recreation for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Tickets are free for members and $5 for non-members. 5-8 p.m. Fort Smith Senior Activity Center, 2700 Cavanaugh Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-5529 arcrivervalley.org Feb. 18 Dulcimer Club Every third Saturday of the month, practice or learn the dulcimer with a group of other players who meet at the library. The group plays easy songs for the first hour and tries to build skills during the second hour.

Players must provide their own instruments. Noon-2 p.m. Free. Mountainburg Public Library, 1300 U.S. North, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-1600 Feb. 18 A Taste of Solidarity II Enjoy a delicious dinner and entertainment at this fundraiser for St. Scholastica Monastery’s Guatemalan mission. Funds raised are used to support a scholarship program for girls in Guatemala to whom the Sisters have been devoted for many years. The Sisters regularly travel to Guatemala to give support to children in sponsored schools and an orphanage, from elementary through college. Three representatives of the monastery recently returned from attending a graduation of scholarship students at the school. Tickets $10 for adults, $5 under 12. 7-9 p.m. Christ the King Parish Center, 2112 South Greenwood Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-4147 stscho.org

Feb. 19 TrailBlazers Hiking Club Hike the Boston Mountain Trail at Lake Fort Smith State Park: This 4-mile trail meanders up and down the scenic slopes. With the leaves absent, there are sections of the trail that allow a peek at the lake. Along the way are wet-weather streams and massive sandstone boulders resting beneath the trees. Meet at Cloverleaf Plaza parking lot at 1 p.m. to carpool and/or caravan. Lake Fort Smith State Park, 15458 Shepherd Springs Road, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-646-9562 thcfs.com Feb. 19 3rd Sunday Art Show at Michael’s Mansion Every third Sunday, Michael's Mansion exhibits fine art by featured artists Pat Riggs, Jimmy Leach, Lorrie Bridges and Daleana Vaughan. Meet the artists, browse and enjoy refreshments by Chef Mike. 1-4 p.m. Michael's Mansion, 2900 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-883-8336 michaelsmansion.biz Feb. 21 “Sew Easy” Basic Hand Sewing Class Class is led by certified sewing educator Patti Deffenbaugh. Take a needle (size 7 or 9), a spool of black thread, small scissors and a needle threader (optional). It’s “sew” easy! 10 a.m.-noon. Free. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 Feb. 21 Taco & Tamale Dinner Support The Montessori School of Fort Smith's 6thgrade class as they raise funds for a year-end trip to

Big Bend National Park. The menu includes authentic tamales, tacos, beans, rice, guacamole, salsa and cheese. Dinner is "to-go" or "eat-in." Purchase tickets

by Feb. 15. $10. 5:30-7:30 p.m. The Montessori School of Fort Smith, 3908 Jenny Lind Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-646-7225 Feb. 21 Caring for the Caregiver: Family, Friends, Co-Survivors Presented by Dr. Charles Saulsbery, Peachtree Hospice. Cancer changes lives, relationships, goals and priorities for not only the patients but also for those who live with and care for them. Learn how to recognize the changes that take place for caregivers and how to manage the change, stress and burden of caring for loved one with cancer or other chronic disease.

Refreshments provided. Free. Noon. Donald W. Reynolds Cancer Support House, 3324 South M Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-782-6302 Feb. 21 Daughters of the American Revolution The Fort Smith Chapter of DAR will present Good Citizen awards to local high school students who have competed in an essay contest whose theme was American citizenship. The DAR awards will be presented by Mayor Sandy Sanders. Guests are welcome to all meetings and programs. Members are glad to assist those who are conducting genealogical research as a pathway to membership. Any woman 18 years or older who can prove descent from an ancestor who aided in achieving American independence is eligible to join. 1-2 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Ave., Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-5170

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Feb. 22 “Hire” Education: Job Seeker Assistance Crawford County Library Systems will host a series of programs to give valuable information, resources and consulting to unemployed or underemployed job seekers. The free events are sponsored by Go Ye Employment Services. Go Ye staff will moderate, answer questions and share resources and guidance to create a higher chance of success for participants to obtain a job. The first program asks for public input allowing potential attendees to submit questions, topics of interest and preferred time of future meetings. 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Free. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 Feb. 22 Breast Cancer Screenings Call to schedule an appointment. Resources available for uninsured or those who cannot afford a mammogram, including Arkansas Department of Health representative taking enrollments on site, no Social Security number required. Mercy Mobile Mammography is the provider. Free. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Donald W. Reynolds Cancer Support House, 3324 South M Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-314-7855 ReynoldsCancerSupportHouse.org Feb. 23 Welcome Neighbor Book Club The book “The Maid's Version” by Daniel Woodrell will be reviewed. Any woman is welcome to attend and enjoy the discussion. Free. 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Dewey's Cafe, Main Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-459-1603 welcomeneighborftsmith.weebly.com Feb. 23 Foster Care Community Outreach Meeting Today, there are more than 750 children in foster care in Sebastian County. There are 94 approved foster homes. That means 90 percent of the children from Sebastian County are placed in group homes, shelters, facilities or foster homes outside of this county. These children are removed from everything and everyone they know when this happens. Not only are they removed from their homes, but also from their schools, friends, activities and everything that they know.

ARCCC, Arkansas Creating Connections for Children, is an initiative of DHS/Division of Children and Family Services. This meeting is to provide the community with an understanding of the needs for foster families in the area. You will not be obligated to become a foster parent, but perhaps you will be able to aid in the development of a committee and volunteers to help the 750 foster children in Sebastian County. Free. 6-7 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, Carnegie Room, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-561-5389 Feb. 25 TrailBlazers Hiking Club TrailBlazers Hiking Club will hike the Boy Scout Trail at Petit Jean State Park. Starting at Mather Lodge, hike down to Cedar Creek and follow it to the Boy Scout Trail. After a climb up the mountain, hikers will continue on to the Rock House Cave area, cross Cedar Creek again and follow it back to Mather Lodge for a moderate to difficult hike of about 7 miles. Take lunch and water. Meet at Cloverleaf Plaza parking lot at 8 a.m. to carpool and/or caravan. Petit Jean State Park, 1285 Petit Jean Mountain Road, Morrilton, Ark. 479-646-9562 thcfs.com 70

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Feb. 25 WAMN Training Class: Fish and Skulls Western Arkansas Master Naturalists (WAMN) presents a series of classes for Naturalists in Training and taught by a variety of college professors and field experts. Classes are from 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; lunch is held from noon-1 p.m. Arkansas River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Van Buren, Ark. 479-452-3993 Feb. 25 Remembering Mulberry Speakers will share memories about the history and founding of Mulberry, Ark. Refreshments served. 11 a.m. Free. Mulberry Public Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226 Feb. 25 Once Upon a Prom Dress Collection Day Donate prom dresses to girls who cannot afford one.

This year, donate dresses sizes 12 and up. Please help girls in need have a magical prom night. 10 a.m.noon. Heritage United Methodist Church, 1604 Pointer Trail, Van Buren, Ark. 479-208-3568

Orchestra leader and Fort Smith native Alphonso Trent broke color barriers in jazz, performing for white audiences in venues such as the Adolphus Hotel in Dallas and playing live on radio broadcasts in the early 20th century.

Feb. 25 Alphonso's Gold In celebration of Black History Month, the Fort Smith Museum of History will present a documentary on Alphonso Trent. The film, “Alphonso's Gold,” is a look at the history of the noted Alphonso Trent Orchestra from the point of view of America’s first orchestrasinger, John Fielding, portrayed by Ryk St. Vincent, Little Rock actor and jazz musician. Produced locally

by John McIntosh, Dr. Henry Rinne, Chris Cameron, Mike Hart and Five Star Productions, the documentary showcases the talents of historians, musicians and filmmakers. Museum admission: $7 adults, $2 children ages 6 and up. 1 p.m. Fort Smith Museum of History, 320 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-7841 fortsmithmuseum.org Feb. 25 King Elementary Run With the Knights 5K Proceeds are used to take all fourth-grade students to camp for three days and two nights at no cost to the students. Early registration: $15 until Feb. 17; day of the race is $25. Race is USATF-certified. $15-$25. 8 a.m.-noon. King Elementary, 411 North 20th Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-2661 vbsd.us/king Feb. 25 Miss Van Buren High School Pageant The Van Buren High School Project Graduation Class of 2017 is proud to sponsor the 2017 Miss VBHS pageant. 7 p.m. Van Buren Fine Arts Center, 2001 East Pointer Trail, Van Buren, Ark. 479-652-9200 Facebook.com/VBHSPG2017 February 2017

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First Fort Smith Mardi Gras includes music, a parade, children’s activities and an art festival Held to raise funds for

FEBRUARY local non-profits, Fort

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Smith’s first Mardi Gras includes art-making, activities for kids, a parade and live music, all downtown. Enjoy arts, crafts, food and drink from morning until night.

A Kids Village will be featured in Pendergraft Park, with the Breezeway at Brunwick Place as an alternate location. Crafts, mardi gras mask making station, face painting, as well as live music and other activities will be available for children.

A Mardi Gras Parade will begin at 4 p.m. with a route from North 6th to North 10th Street, to Rogers Avenue and back again.

An Art Festival is themed “Power, Justice, Faith,” the meaning represented by the colors of Mardi Gras – gold, purple, green. Three levels of artists are encouraged to participate: high school, college and master. Artists will create their works at Brunwick Place and other downtown venues. The final showing of all art will be in the former Goins Furniture building, 900 Garrison Avenue on Feb. 25.

Performances at the Sound Room include 2:30 concert by Emi Sunshine followed by a Battle of the Bands finals. At 8 p.m. local rap artists perform before a King and Queen coronation and a show by Dirtfoot. For full details and to join the parade, find entry forms on the website. The beneficiaries of proceeds are local – Heart to Heart Pregnancy Support Center, Earthbound Angels, Make-A-Wish and Riverfront Blues Society. 9 a.m.-10 p.m. Downtown Fort Smith, 200 Garrison Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. bordertownevents.com 72

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Clayton Conversation turns to Different Spokes and cycling enthusiasts Ride a trail of history that travels from the first bicycle invented through the 1800s and to the sport today that is blazing trails in both communities and individuals’ lives.

FEBRUARY

26

The Clayton House welcomes speakers representing the past, present and future of bicycling for this program. Sharing two-wheel history from the wooden “swiftwalker” (1817) to the “velocipede” (it had pedals but was known as the “boneshaker”), to the High Wheel (1871), the Rover (1885, with an adjustable seat!) and beyond is Cris Slaymaker, education outreach speaker from the Old Statehouse Museum in Little Rock.

The state museum shares its exhibit called “Different Spokes,” including a display that will be at the Clayton House through February.

Taking the handlebars next will be Josh Carroll, ambassador for the bicycle shop Phat Tire.

Founded in Arkansas by young cyclists who want to make their communities “cool and healthy,” Phat Tire now has stores in Northwest Arkansas, Fort Smith and Tulsa. Carroll will discuss the kinds of bikes available for different riders and surfaces.

Enjoy an exhibit of bikes and bike history beginning at 1 p.m. preceding the 1:30 p.m. presentation. The program wraps up with an update by Drew Linder, committee chair of Trails and Greenways in Fort Smith. Learn about our area’s current and future trails, and then, get on your bike and ride! $10; free to members of the Fort Smith Heritage Foundation 1:30-2:30 p.m. The Clayton House, 514 North 6th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-3000 claytonhouse.org February 2017

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS March 3 15th Annual Grape Escapes, A Vine Affair!

Grape Escapes is Bost Inc.’s cocktail style, signature fundraiser providing guests with the opportunity to sample more than 375 wines from around the world and enjoy hors d’oeuvres from local restaurants and caterers. The party includes live music, a wine pull, live and silent auctions. All funds raised will be used locally in this community to fund critical services and supports for individuals with disabilities served by Bost. Bost is a non-profit organization serving 28 counties in western Arkansas to individuals with disabilities and their families. Event attire is semi-formal.

Call for reservations. $100. 6-9 p.m.. Must be 21 to attend. DoubleTree by Hilton, 700 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-652-4553 bost.org/events/grape-escapes/ March 3-5 Friends of Project Compassion Adult Team Tennis Championships Each team of five or more players will play two doubles and one singles match per round. Teams may change partners and mix-up singles players from round to round, just like team tennis. Prizes will be awarded to runners-up. Snacks and lunch on Saturday, mimosas and other beverages all weekend. Each player will receive a tennis towel. Register online with Tournament ID: 700093817 (STA 75 PT). Registration deadline is Feb. 28. The mission of Project Compassion Inc. is to bring joy, companionship and quality of life to area nursing home residents. $30. 9 a.m. Ben Geren and Creekmore Tennis Centers, 3303 South M Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-782-5333 arktennis.com March 4 WAMN Training Class - Frog Watch Western Arkansas Master Naturalists (WAMN) presents a series of classes geared for our Naturalists in Training and taught by a variety of college professors and field experts. Classes are from 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; lunch is held from noon-1 p.m. Devil's Den, 1333 Arkansas 74, West Fork, Ark. 479-761-3325 arkansasstateparks.com/devilsden March 10 Fostering Fashion Proceeds from this fashion show will go toward special projects benefitting local foster children and teens such as back-to-school shopping, life skills classes and educational experiences. The girl's night will include a runway fashion show, shopping and refreshments. Local and regional retailers will showcase their newest clothing and accessories for spring, while patrons make their bids on silent auction items such as spa retreats and Disney tickets. Fostering Fashion will also have a special area called the Men Den, where guys can share in the shopping experience. $30. 6-9 p.m. Fort Smith Convention Center, 800 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-3930 jlfs.org Reporting Events for Publication To reach the 80,000 readers of Entertainment Fort Smith’s Calendar of Events, report events online at efortsmith.com by the 10th of each month. Our online form asks for all the information the magazine requires. Priority is given to events that are free, lowcost, of general interest or for children and those that support non-profit groups. Read guidelines for publication; display advertising is suggested for items that do not meet editorial rules. Email questions to calendar@efortsmith.com or call 479-494-1888.

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DINING GUIDE

They are the danger: Dining Favorites Here’s the thing: We did not instruct our Dining Favorites winners to ride in like outlaws. But for photos, anyway, some showed up like hard men. Who wield knives. Especially the men representing StoneHouse and Saké.

When we weren’t shooting, these genial guys were joking and breaking each other up. But when the camera pointed at them – dangerous hombres, Bond movie villains. Maybe even a little old-time U.S. marshal menace.

Granted, cooking is a serious business. A chef is a high authority. We get that. The bartender has to be nice.

Maybe it was an in-joke. We thought it was hilarious and these highly creative (and actually, very friendly) people make the sushi and fine dining experiences you voted your Favorites.

Contrast this with the fun we have every year with Ralph and Jeff Taylor of Ralph’s Pink Flamingo Barbecue. For nine years now, they’ve picked up a win for their award-winning smoked meats and this year they were chosen as Readers’ Favorite Barbecue to Take Out, plus they were named Favorite Catering. Jeff has just opened Jeff ’s Club House around the corner at Maybranch Square from the barbecue joint and it’s already a popular place to eat lunch.

Repeat winners: 21 West End was voted Favorite Romantic Dining and Rolando’s, again, Favorite Restaurant Overall. We regret missing them at the photo shoot but applaud them along with Sweet Bay Coffee Co., also a long-time Favorite, MIA on photo day.

Photographer Glenn Gilley did manage to catch Chef Memo of StoneHouse, Guillermo Vaca, with his more typical, very pleasant expression.

Refer to the official photo and these handsome men of Saké Sushi & Martini Bar are smiling.

But know this: They are capable of staring down their enemies. Brutally.

Steffy’s Pizza crew drove in from Lavaca to thank readers for driving out to them – Favorite Dining Near Fort Smith.

We learned that Patrick’s is now serving your Favorite Burger from the train car at the Park at Westend. Papa’s Pub & Pizzaria has never not owned pizza. You love La Huerta for its menu and Favorite Patio Dining, yet another year.

Readers like to watch a ball game at Buffalo Wild Wings, the only national restaurant voted in. Congrats. Your dearly beloved deli is still River City, a multiple Favorites winner since its opening. And welcome, Tai Pei, Favorite Asian Restaurant and long-time institution. Whole Hog Café takes the BBQ win this year. The rivalry continues, but you like all kinds of ’Q! February 2017

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DINING GUIDE LULU’S Beautiful entrees such as Cedar Plank Tasmanian Salmon, fresh from the gulf, are prepared by Chef Aaron at this new bistro.

Menu of fresh market-to-table delights, cocktails and fine wines. 9417 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith.

JUAN’S

STONEHOUSE

Juan’s Mexican Restaurant is a Fort Smith classic at 3121 Towson Avenue known for its signature cheese dip and delicious combo platters. Fast service and lunch specials make it a business lunch favorite.

Fresh chili rellenos are a house specialty.

Chef Memo invents amazing entrees like this Coral Cod made with cabbage and fennel sauté with honey cumin, finished off with roasted pepper carrot purée. Join on social media for menu and drink news. 8801 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith.

WESTERN SIZZLIN

RIVER CITY

Known for its famously tender steaks and the endless variety of its long food bar, with hot entrees, fresh vegetables and colorful, healthy salad selections. Two Fort Smith locations: 5720 Rogers Avenue and 5200 Towson Avenue.

Congratulations to Rolando’s FAVORITE RESTAURANT OVERALL

Chosen repeatedly by our readers as Favorite Catering and Gourmet Deli, Chef Jason Haid prepares seasonal creations, brunch, fine dining evenings, the classic bistro/deli menu and stellar event catering.

7320 Rogers, Ste. 7, Fort Smith.

ROLANDO’S Rolando’s has made Arkansas fluent in Neuvo Latino cuisine, based on the menu created by Rolando Cruz. Fresh tastes and artful presentation make each plate and beverage a beautiful gift. 223 Garrison Avenue, Fort Smith.

SAKÉ SUSHI BAR

WHOLE HOG CAFÉ

Our readers’ “Favorite” Sushi. Saké Sushi & Martini has unmatched creativity in sushi and seafood, such as originals like this Cajun Campfire Roll with Fresh king salmon,crawfish and jalapeno. Full bar.

823 Garrison Avenue, Fort Smith.

So many barbecue sauces, so many great slow-barbecued meats to try: pulled pork, ribs, brisket, pulled chicken and sausage.

Freed a family or a party with a “Buddy Pack” Dine in for daily specials. 4501 Burrough Road, Fort Smith.

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