Entertainment Fort Smith Magazine - April 2017

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EDITOR’S NOTES

Editorial Staff

Herschel McClurkin Jr., 1928-2017

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 BRITTANY RANSOM KRISTAN ROLAND KARRIE KELLY JAMI ANN BALKMAN Contributing Photographers AIREDALE NATION ROGER CARTER GLENN GILLEY KARRIE KELLY DONNA PAYNE LYNN WASSON PATTI WEBB

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

Photo by Taylor Prewitt, 2015

Farewell to a friend of the magazine As the publishers of this magazine, Linda Seubold and I would like to set aside our Editor’s Notes to say farewell to a beloved friend of this magazine, Herschel McClurkin, and to offer our condolences to his dear wife, Mardell, their family and their very large church family.

If a publication can be said to have had a pastor, we claim Herschel. Although Linda had a longer connection, due to her father, Roy Poynor, having been a Methodist minister and Herschel’s friend, Herschel also “adopted” my family for pastoral care.

With his constant companion, Mardell, Herschel visited the hospital to comfort and pray for both Linda and her family and me and my family in times of need. Neither one of us are members of First Methodist Church, their church home. But both of us can tell you, seeing their calm, warm and smiling faces in the intensive care unit was beyond comforting and even more touching because their visits were unexpected. They just knew they were needed.

Their long, admirable marriage was the subject of a wonderful article written by their friend Dr. Taylor Prewitt, who took the portrait above. It is on our website, efortsmith.com.

Herschel was our chinquipin tree expert. It delighted our garden writer, Reba Mize, to hear Herschel describe the flavor of the nuts of the almost-extinct chinquipin, which were abundant here in his childhood. He was a member of the Ozark Chinquapin Foundation, which is making progress in re-establishing this native tree. Perhaps we will get to taste an Arkansasgrown chinquapin nut someday.

In February, Herschel and Mardell together received the Fort Smith Exchange Club’s Book of Golden Deeds Award. We suspect there are not enough awards to thank them for the many ways they have contributed to our community – and they would say they didn’t need any thanks.

We must give our thanks and remembrance, nevertheless, for this wise and loving friend.

– Lynn Wasson

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

APRIL 2017

features

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12 8

Familiar faces and voices

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12

Colorful quilts

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Layer it on thick

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Greenwood’s Colorful Airing of the Quilts The art of quilting is celebrated with a May quilt show and historical quilt exhibit in Greenwood’s annual festival of patchwork, pattern and stitching.

By Karrie Kelly

Alma Can Dance!

Unique among Arkansas schools, the Alma Public School system offers students the chance to dance – and hundreds do, spectacularly!

By Jami Ann Balkman

April Designer Showhouse is High Above Downtown The public is invited to tour a penthouse apartment while supporting a nonprofit to create healthier family relations for children in troubled families.

April Calendar of Events

Entertainment Fort Smith

April 2017

DESIGN NOTES Van Buren’s historic Main Street gets a foot-friendly redesign.

By Brittany Ransom

WHAT’S COOKING Not only sweet, layers and layers of sweetness in cake recipes.

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GARDENING It’s time to pick your tomatoes for planting.

FOR YOUR HEALTH Be on the watch for tick bites while pursuing outdoor activities.

DINING GUIDE Delicious choices from the finest area eateries.

eve n t s

53 53

Walk through the doors of the historic Radio Center (replica) to take in the city’s broadcast history at the Fort Smith Museum of History.

departments

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Live from Fort Smith: On the Air

MUSIC & PERFORMANCE A symphony that’s stirred, not shaken, leads April’s events.

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KIDS EVENTS Shows that star kids and many performances for kids this month.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS Many featured speakers, spring festivals, cultural and historical programs and much outdoor fun in April.

On the Cover: Alma School District students of dance rehearse for the school system’s spring dance show April 29-30. Photo by Patti Webb.

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APRIL 27

Fort Smith’s broadcast history

ON THE AIR New permanent exhibit at Fort Smith Museum of History is a credit to Carl Riggins

1922 - WCAC 1922 - WGAR 1930 - KFPW 1947 - KFSA 1947 - KRKN 1947 - KWHN 1953 - KLCO 1956 - KTCS 1958 - KFDF 1964 - KMAG 1971 - KISR

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n April 27, longtime Fort Smith media figure Carl Riggins will see a dream come true when the permanent exhibit “On the Air 1922-1972” opens at the Fort Smith Museum of History.

Visitors will walk into a replica of the exterior of Fort Smith’s Radio Center building that once stood at 421 Garrison Avenue. Inside, they can see and hear the history of local radio and television through a display of authentic equipment, photographs and information.

Riggins has spent a lifetime collecting and preserving artifacts of local radio and TV. He originally bought many items on display and also persuaded other owners of memorabilia to donate it to this exhibit.

In 2012, Riggins mounted a temporary exhibit that incorporated related material already held by the museum. He said he enjoyed contacting retired broadcasters – many of them friends – to loan things to the exhibit.

Riggins spent his entire career in local broadcasting. He was a boy when radio was the only broadcast medium and a teen during television’s debut. He started in radio as a disc jockey at radio stations KWHN, KFSA and KTCS, and later worked at television stations KLMN-TV (later KPOM TV Channel 24) and KFSA TV, now KFSM Channel 5. He retired after 30 years as director of media ministries for First Baptist Church, which aired the ACTS network, later known as Inspirational Network, when it was on television Channel 2.

Carl Riggins, left, in the exhibit’s working radio control room, from which he can demonstrate every kind of recorded medium from 45 records, LPs, reel-to-reel tape to various cassettes or cartridges. A operable transmitter, not shown, may in the future be modified to broadcast a radio signal only in the building.

A Timeline of Radio Stations, left. Over many years, Riggins set out to collect microphones from Fort Smith radio stations. This outstanding collection includes, for every local station, the authentic or historically correct mic.The KFSA and KWHN metal “flags” showing the station call sign are especially rare treasures and show up in dozens of historic photographs.

A photo of early radio man Jimmy Berry, right, with a radio he and partners once manufactured in Fort Smith. Its brand name was Brown.

A KWHN marquee announces daily programs that include a rock ‘n’ roll show by “Little CR” – Carl Riggins’ on-air name.

Portraits of radio personalities Pat Porta, top, and George Glover are among dozens of familiar faces in local broadcast media that will hang in the On the Air exhibit.

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ON THE AIR The popularity of the first “On the Air” exhibit further inspired Riggins and the museum to create this permanent installation. Riggins helped to solicit $25,000 in underwriting. The second-floor Radio Center replica exterior, with its Art Deco doors and glass-block accents, was built by talented craftsmen Monte Smith and Easy Barber near other replica exteriors such as the Boston Store and Goldman Hotel exhibits.

Riggins’ contemporary Jim Roughley, who also worked on-air for local stations, has helped with the search for artifacts and making the radio control room operable, Riggins said. Many other broadcast pros have contributed and all the items are meticulously credited.

LeRoy Billy, owner of KPRV in Poteau, Okla., gave the radio transmitter. Bill and Karen Pharis, owners of Fort Smith Radio Group have been very supportive; Dale Williams contributed a rare Electronic Transmission turntable he rescued from a dumpster, Riggins said. Families of other local broadcasters have given photographs, signs and memorabilia, as well.

The 2012 exhibit opening was an area media reunion. The museum staff invites all employees of any local stations, or their families, to reunite once more at the public opening reception, 6 p.m. April 27, which will both launch the exhibit and honor Riggins. The permanent exhibit will likely grow with more preserved audio, film and video from local radio and TV. These familiar voices and faces, the news they reported and read daily, the entertainment they created and the technology that broadcast engineers mastered are all a part of local history that might have left only memories but for Riggins’ dedication.

6 p.m. April 27 Opening Reception Admission $7 adults, $5 veterans and military, $2 children, under 6 free. Fort Smith Museum of History, 320 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-7841 fortsmithmuseum.org

The exhibit’s television studio will have photos of local news reporters, anchors and weather announcers, along with equipment and sets used by local stations.

The first broadcast images Fort Smithians saw were shot from this black and white camera in 1953, right, which stayed in use for more than a decade until the advent of color.

They would have watched those early broadcasts on a television set like this Radio Pilot-brand model, below, whose black-andwhite screen was smaller than an iPhone. In the background, more recently obsolete technology: a video cassette recorder.

STORY AND PHOTOS BY LYNN WASSON

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MAY 5-6

Greenwood’s

Airing of the

QUILTS

ay 5-6 will be colorful days when the 8th annual Airing of the Quilts is held at Greenwood’s Bell Park.

This celebration of patchwork, pattern and stitching is sponsored by the Alpha Delta Chapter, ESA, an international service organization that supports the South Sebastian County Historical Society.

“This is the historical society’s biggest fundraiser and it’s a joint effort between the historical society and the quilters,” explained Ann Akins, treasurer for Alpha Delta and the Quilt Show and the incoming president of the Belle Pointe Quilters Guild.

More than 100 beautiful examples of the quilter’s art will be on display. Most of the quilts have been made by members of the Belle Pointe Quilters Guild, but quilters enter from other cities and clubs, as well.

Kay Voss is the woman behind the idea of the Airing of the Quilts fundraiser and owner of Mama’s Log House Quilt Shop, where quilters seek out her knowledge.

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“It’s so special that we are able to help the historical society preserve our history for the next generations. This came about because we wanted to do something for Sebastian County and nationally not just for Greenwood,” she said.

“Each year, the Airing of the Quilts grows, from a nice start of 100 visitors the first year to over 600 visitors from all over the world. We’ve had people come from 11 states, including as far away as Maine and California,” said Donna Goldstein, curator with the South Sebastian County Historical Society.

Vendors will offer other handcrafted fiber art.

Two are Greenwood artists, Virginia Stewart’s 55 Stitches aprons and Valerie DiMaggio’s hooked wool rugs.

One of the most popular amenities of the show is Miss Sue’s Tea Room inside the quilt show. Sue Lewis and a group of women create a unique tea room atmosphere for their visitors, with proper cups and saucers. The tea room is open for lunch or dessert from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Lunch will be available for $8.

As always, a special quilt has been selected as a focus of the show.

“Every year, we have a special exhibit. This year is the Mother/Daughter’s quilt made by Letha Wilson and Maxine Rogers,” said Voss.

Wilson has been making quilts since 1959 and has created 75. Maxine made her first quilt in 2016 and plans on making more.

To enter a quilt in the show, inquire about special hotel rates or for other information, call 479-883-0254 or 479-806-1081. Find them on Facebook at Airing of the Quilts.

Quilt show visitors also are invited to see vintage quilts displayed nearby in Greenwood historical district's 1848 log cabin, 1892 Old Jail, Pioneer School and Old Barn at the northeast corner of the town square, Main and Center Streets. At the historic site, there also will be Civil War-era historical re-enactors and a blacksmith demonstration.

Admission is $5. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. each day. Sen. Ed Wilkinson Pavilion, Bell Park, 1050 Bell Park Road, Greenwood, Ark.

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Letha Wilson, above, at work on the 2017 show’s special quilt decorated with the state bird and embroidered with Arkansas cities.

Quilts “aired” on clotheslines and fences are the inspiration for the festival’s name. Visitors take a close look, below, at an exhibit.

Jeanie Evans, a member of the Belle Point Quilters Guild, above. A table setting from the elaborate Tea Room, below.

A gallery of more than 100 quilts, from traditional to contemporary, will be on display.

Photos courtesy of the event.

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ALMA

CAN E

IF DANCE IS THE “HIDDEN LANGUAGE OF THE SOUL,” THE STUDENTS OF ALMA SCHOOL DISTRICT HAVE A LOT TO SAY.

ach spring, the Alma Performing Arts Center hosts the Alma School District dance show, a two-hour showcase of students’ talents and creativity. This is not a recital, according to dance instructors Brooke Brewer and Sara Murray, it is a cross between a modern musical and a ballet. Every dance show has a theme and each dance number relates to the theme in a fluid sequence to tell a story through movement.

According to Pamm Treece, assistant superintendent, this student-run production is the culminating project for the dance classes offered at Alma High School and Alma Middle School. Alma offers dance as an elective course in grades 7-12. Dance is very unique to the Alma School District. Very few Arkansas public schools have a dance program. The performance showcases the benefit the program has on students in the district and the community as a whole, she said.

“The fact that the program is inclusive for both females and males is important to the development of arts in the River Valley. We have a large number of boys who are not only interested, but also very talented. Their participation allows our dance program to include elements that would not be possible otherwise,” Treece said. “Interestingly, in the last few years, several of the male dancers on our competitive dance team also play football or basketball.”

A photo from a previous spring performance, right, indicates the popularity of dance with many male students. Many of the boys are also in athletic programs.

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N DANCE Many Alma students choose to dance, as seen in a previous performance. From a student population of approximately 1,750, more than 300 students participate in the spectacular annual spring performance.This year’s original show is based on a day in the life of an Alma High School kid.

More than 300 students participate in the show; more than 100 of them are male.

Because the Alma dance classes feature jazz, hip-hop and aerial dancing, many guys jump at the opportunity to participate. The aerial numbers are particularly popular.

Work on the show begins in December.

Students are involved in every aspect. They’re involved in brainstorming phase-song ideas, dance concepts, costuming and stage design.

By early March, students begin learning the numbers. Class time in March and April is used to teach, rehearse and polish routines.

Most classes also have after-school rehearsals.

The middle school dancers have about eight hours of after-school rehearsal. In contrast, the high school dance team spends about 85 hours rehearsing outside of school.

Students dedicate about four hours, four times per week, plus Saturday mornings to rehearsal. Behind the scenes, there are two student stage managers who call all cues from the stage wings, a student prop and costume manager and a full student tech crew handling lighting, sound and props.

Kids also build the set, hang lighting and the more advanced students help with choreography.

“My favorite thing about working on the dance show is watching the creativity pour out of students and staff who work on it. No idea around here is too crazy! We've flown a drummer in on a platform, crowd surfed a student, students have jumped into the orchestra pit and flown over the audience. If we can dream it up, we try to find a way to make it happen,” said Murray, one of the two dance instructors. “Watching the students problem-solve to find a way to make ideas that seem impossible happen is so much fun.”

The show is performed for the Alma High School student body before opening to the public.

“This sneak peek performance is a great opportunity to expose our students to a dance performance and help build interest in the program,” explained director Brooke Brewer.

The Alma community supports the dance program and fosters student interest in performance arts, Brewer said. “I love hearing

“

No idea around here is too crazy ... Watching the students problemsolve to find a way to make ideas that seem impossible happen is so much fun.

Sara Murray

”

stories from people who do not have kids in the program anymore, but still come see the dance show every year to support the program and see what our students are up to.”

Alma’s dance program is by far the largest in Arkansas and it is important for the community to get to see what it does for students. Theresa Schlabach, the executive director of the Alma Performing Arts Center, called it “amazing.”

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This show centers around a day in the life of an Alma student. The dance department, every year, tries to do something completely different from anything that has been done before.

“This show will be really fun because it is going to become a collaborative effort between multiple campus groups. We have some members of the band who will be involved, the video production class and our theater department will be involved in making the show come together. We will explore different classes that occur throughout the school day and situations that high school students may find themselves in,” Murray said.

While the program is about dance, it teaches the value of hard work, dedication, creativity and working as a group to achieve a common goal.

Two performances are open to the public: 7 p.m. April 29 and 2 p.m.

April 30. Tickets can be purchased at almapac.org.

Contributing writing Jami Ann Balkman is a district literacy specialist in the Alma Public Schools .

The upcoming programs includes some intriguing stage effects.

Photos contributed by Patti Webb and Airedale Nation Photography.

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APRIL 14-MAY 14

Fundraising by Design: April Designer Showhouse

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spacious downtown penthouse apartment will be open to visitors in April and May as the 2017 April Designer Showhouse. Decorated throughout by local design professionals, this unique home is on tour to raise funds for a nonprofit organization housed on the ground floor the Garrison Avenue building.

Downstairs at 706-708 Garrison is the STEPS Family Resource Center, founded by Susan Hooks. STEPS Inc.’s name is an acronym for its mission: Safety, Training, Education, Prevention and Solutions to promote save, healthy, violence-free families.

Hooks purchased the 5,000-square-foot building in 2014 as a headquarters for the nonprofit organization. The double storefront houses administrative offices on one side and the other is the STEPS resource center, designed to meet an important need.

At the time, more than 600 foster children were visiting with their parents weekly at only two visitation rooms available at the local Department of Human Services. At no fault of DHS and their limited space, visitations were taking place in hallways and crowded offices with no toys, books or games available. STEPS' first initiative was to provide space for visitations held in safe, family-style rooms.

The center also is used for court-ordered supervised visitation for victims of domestic violence, including divorce/separated parents.

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When Hooks and her husband, Mark, decided to create a residence on the third floor of the building, the idea for the fundraiser began. Hooks partnered with Earl Douglas, a local designer who has 11 such projects on his resume. This will be the third showhouse he’s produced in Fort Smith.

The light-filled, 2,000-square-foot residence has two balconies with a view to Garrison Avenue. On the interior, a 70-foot hallway leads to the residence’s front door. Douglas has curated a gallery of art by local artists Jimmy Leach and Cindy Gushing Sugg. A large, open-plan living room and kitchen are the heart of the residence, which has a master suite, a grandchild’s bedroom, two baths and a private den.

Terri Glassco, Allied ASID of T. Glasco Designs Inc., is following Hooks’ love of Sante Fe style in the living, dining and kitchen area. An “Alice in Wonderland” theme was created by Jen Hurt, Allied ASID of Childers Architecture, for a tween-aged granddaughter. Crystal White of Allison Sales Co. chose tile for the kitchen and bathrooms. Real hardwood flooring was installed by Smith Hardwood Floors.

Neumeier Nursery & Greenhouses selected living plants for the home.

Kolor Key provided Benjamin Moore paints. Mitch McRay of River Valley Framing Co. is the general contractor.

Touring this unusual family home to see the talent of our community’s top designers will help STEPS offer healing to create healthy families.

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DESIGNER SHOWHOUSE

Following the Hooks family’s love of Sante Fe style, Teri Glassco’s design for the penthouse living room, left, includes motifs in desert colors. For a granddaughter’s room, Jen Hurt, above, created an ‘Alice in Wonderland’ theme.

Left: Showhouse director Earl Douglas with, from left, homeowner Susan Hooks, gala honoree Dr. Sandi Sanders, Mark Hooks and Abbie TaylorCox, director of STEPS Family Resource Center.

APRIL DESIGNER SHOWHOUSE TOUR April 14-May 14 The penthouse tour entrance is not on Garrison Avenue. Visitors should park in the municipal parking garage, entered from the 800 block of Rogers Avenue. Park where directed. Take the garage elevator to the top.

Guides will show you to the doors.

Tickets are $12 at the door.

Group tours can be arranged.

Open Tuesday-Saturday 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

Sunday 1-5 p.m.

Proceeds benefit the nonprofit STEPS Family Resource Center 706-708 Garrison Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark.

In the STEPS administrative offices on the ground floor, designers Teri Glassco and Jen Hurt review design boards for the Showhouse project upstairs. The extensive renovations for the third-floor residence combined several existing apartments into a three-bedroom penthouse.

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HOME

Downtown Van Buren spiffs up for spring

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rom the unveiling of Freedom Park and Farmer’s Market pavilions, to welcoming new merchants and kicking off its Living Local campaign, Downtown Van Buren is making itself as inviting as possible this spring.

Freedom Park One of most visible signs of progress in Van Buren is the ongoing construction north of the historic train depot. Two pavilions now stand as part of the city’s new Freedom Park. They will become the new home of a Farmers Market and will be available for public use for special events.

On track for a mid-April completion, Freedom Park will have an interactive fountain, a vintage-style street clock and an open green space area and stage. The park footprint also will encompass Veterans Memorial Plaza.

“This is the public’s park and we have already had inquiries from groups, bands and individuals wanting to utilize the space,” explained Joe Hurst, Van Buren city planner.

“We envision it being used for concerts, movies in the park and other events.”

Officials believe the city and taxpayers’ decision to invest in downtown will continue to prompt others to participate in revitalization. “We hope it will inspire more people to put in nice restaurants and businesses downtown,” said Hurst.

“All the studies say that walkability is huge,” noted Hurst. The city is seeking better ways to help visitors get up, down and across the blocks and improve the appearance of walkways. The project has included the addition of plants and greenery and new pop-out ‘parklets’ in single parking spaces, with bench seating and landscape plants and flowers.

Tactical Urbanism Another recent downtown investment has been in the form of “tactical urbanism.”

Coordinated by the group Van Buren Original, the goal is to infuse more green space and to make walkways more pedestrian-friendly, as well as aesthetically pleasing.

Living Local “Living Local” will return on April 6 to offer residents the chance to enjoy after-hours shopping and dining each Thursday evening.

The series also will include special musical performances, art shows and other themed activities correlating to the month.

Several “parklets” in parking spaces along Main Street include bench seating, plants and a Little Free Library with books to borrow.

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HOME “Our inaugural Living Local series this past fall was a tremendous success,” said Alan Foliart, president of The Old Town Merchants Association. “We have more planned this year, including Easter festivities this month and Living Locals in May celebrating Mother’s Day and the National Day of Prayer.”

The merchant association will hold an April 27 Spring Art Walk and Artist Showcase at Stage 9.

A crowd enjoys a community concert.

Business Development and Renovation The influx of downtown activity has undoubtedly generated new interest in some of Main Street’s unoccupied buildings. Several stores have recently opened, including Metro Gallery, Natural Treasures and Country Junkie.

In mid-March, several new merchants attended the Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours event hosted by the merchants association.

They included Attic Treasures, an antique and “upcycle” décor shop; Keylime Crush, featuring ’60s and ’70s merchandise and The Blissful Pup, a dog bakery, boutique, salon and pet day care.

The Center for Art and Education will soon move downtown after a total renovation of a building next to the King Opera House. A large gallery and gathering spaces and outdoor green space are planned.

“Main Street has always been an important commercial center for the city and these recent developments are a great indication of the value in having a vibrant downtown,” noted Foliart.

“Visitors now have even more places to stop, shop and dine.”

Go Local Building upon the momentum taking place throughout the city, the Van Buren Chamber of Commerce launched “Go Local,” a campaign to encourage local spending and promote Chamber members. Its goal is to drive economic development for the region as a whole and help keep tax revenues at home. – Brittany Ransom April 2017

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home & garden goodies

Captioned telephone available at the Center for Hearing turns voice calls to text.

Handmade pottery by local artists found at the Fort Smith Regional Art Museum gift shop.

Robotic aboveground pool cleaner available at Luther Stem Pools & Spa.

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home & garden goodies

Herb makers and fresh herb plants from Neumeier Nursery & Greenhouses.

Marigold pattern bakeware available at Polish Pottery Depot.

Message board and rustic cross found at Designer Again.

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home & garden goodies

Wellington bronze swivel bar stool found at Mike’s Furniture.

Salt and pepper shakers and spring silk flowers from Jennifer’s Gift Shop at Sparks Regional Medical Center.

Strawberry lemonade and sour berry lemon flavored vodkas available at In Good Spirits.

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home & garden goodies

Couscous, pickles and stuffed green olives available from Paul’s Meat Market.

Charcoal accent chest found at Furniture Emporium.

Heat transfer vinyl in patterns from Sewing Machine Center and Fabrics.

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GARDENING

Better Boy is a regional favorite.

Select the Best Tomatoes for Your Garden & Table

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liced, sauced or cooked in your favorite recipe, tomatoes are a favorite and versatile vegetable. What’s more, they taste best when grown and harvested from your own garden or container.

Ensure the best flavor and greatest results by selecting the most disease-resistant varieties and growing your tomatoes in full sun and moist, well-drained soil.

Select plants with the growth habit that works best with your garden space and gardening style. Determinate tomatoes are perfect for small-space gardens and containers. They grow to a certain height, stop growing and produce their fruit over a relatively short timeframe.

Indeterminate tomatoes continue to grow throughout the season, producing flowers and fruit until frost kills the plant or you prune off the growing tip found at the end of the main stem(s). Stake or tower the plants to save space, reduce disease and insect problems, and make harvesting more convenient.

Further narrow down your selection and grow varieties best suited to the intended use. Plant tags often provide recommendations. Or, save time and do a bit of research before visiting the garden center to select the best tomato for your growing conditions and the intended use.

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Bite-sized tomatoes are great for salads, relish trays and snacking.

Red Robin and Sweet ‘n Neat produce clusters of red cherry tomatoes on compact plants. Grow them in containers or even a window box.

Tumbling Tom Red and Tumbling Tom Yellow cherry tomatoes are compact, cascading plants that create an attractive edible display in tall containers, hanging baskets, or window boxes.

Grow the explosively sweet Sun Gold and Sun Sugar cherry tomatoes. They’re the candy of the garden and will get even your most reluctant family members, young and old, to eat their tomatoes. Stake or cage these tall plants and, if space is limited, grow them in a 24inch-diameter pot.

Paste and sauce tomatoes have meatier fruit, making them perfect for sauces, soups and preserving. Roma is the traditional favorite. The egg-shaped fruit has thick walls and few seeds. Use them during the growing season for sauces, chop and add them to an omelet, or can and freeze them for future use.

Expand your options with San Marzano heirloom paste tomato.

Popular with gourmet and home chefs, the sweet, complex flavor makes a fabulous sauce. Chop a few and add them to salads, or slice

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GARDENING

Roma is perfect for cooking down into thick sauces and paste. It also freezes well.

Beefsteaks are always grown for their flavor and size for slicing and summer sandwiches.

and top your favorite sandwich. You’ll enjoy the flavor and versatility of this tomato.

Grow a few slicing tomatoes. Most gardeners look for large, juicy tomatoes to enjoy on their sandwiches, hors d’oeuvres and salads.

Look for varieties that are suited to the growing conditions. Solar Flare and Creole are heat-tolerant and keep producing despite high summer temperatures. Start picking tomatoes as soon as 65 days after planting by growing short-season varieties like Early Girl and New Girl tomatoes.

An All-America Selections winner, Celebrity, has great disease resistance and is an excellent all-around tomato. Grow this

Developed for hot climates, the heirloom tomato produces firm, meaty tomatoes.

determinate tomato in a cage or stake the plant to save space.

Heirloom varieties have been grown for more than 50 years and have maintained their original traits and popularity. Cherokee Purple’s rich flavor rates high in taste tests. The dusky pink fruit with deep red interior looks as beautiful as it tastes. Add some fun and sweet flavor with Mr. Stripey. The irregular striping of the red and yellow beefsteak-type fruit make this a popular choice.

So, gather your favorite recipes and create a list of both longtime favorites and new tomato varieties to include in this year’s garden.

Melinda Myers has written more than 20 gardening books and is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine.

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WHAT’S COOKING with KRISTAN ROLAND

Layer it on!

JERRY GARCIA CAKE Cake 2 cups white sugar 13⁄4 cup all-purpose flour 1 cup unsweetened, Dutch process cocoa powder 11⁄2 tsp baking powder 11⁄2 tsp baking soda 1 teaspoon salt 2 eggs 1 cup milk 1/2 cup vegetable oil 2 tsp vanilla extract 3/4 cup boiling water

Cake: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour two eight- or nine-inch pans.

In the bowl of a mixer, combine sugar, flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Whisk together until fully combined. Add eggs, milk, oil and vanilla and beat on medium speed for 2 minutes. Scrape the sides of the bowl, then slowly stir in the boiling water. Pour batter evenly into prepared pans and bake for 30-40 minutes, until tops of cakes spring back when you lightly touch. Remove cakes from oven. Allow to cool in pans for about 10 minutes, then remove to finish cooling on wire racks.

Frosting: In the bowl of your mixer, combine butter and reserved cherry juice, beating on low until combined. Slowly add powdered sugar, beating on low until just mixed.

Increase speed to high and beat for about a minute, until smooth and fluffy. Fold in chocolate and cherries.

Frosting Split each cake round in half with a serrated knife, giving you four layers. Frost and 3 sticks salted butter, slightly softened 10 oz. jar maraschino cherries, juice drained and reserved stack layers and place in the refrigerator while you prepare ganache. and cherries chopped and set aside Ganache: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate and heavy cream.

6 cups powdered sugar Microwave for about a minute, stirring every 15 seconds, until melted and smooth.

2 oz. semisweet chocolate, chopped into small chunks Add corn syrup (or honey) and refrigerate until thick and cooled, but still pourable.

Ganache Pour ganache over chilled cake. If desired, top with whipped cream swirls and 2 oz. semi sweet chocolate, chopped into small chunks additional cherries, but wait until ganache is chilled and set on cake before doing so.

1/4 cup heavy cream 1 tbsp. light corn syrup (or honey) 28

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EASY COCONUT REFRIGERATOR CAKE Cake 1 white cake mix 1 cup milk 1/2 cup cream of coconut, plus extra for brushing the baked layers 3 large eggs Frosting 2 cups sour cream 13⁄4 cups sugar 1 container (8 oz) Cool Whip, thawed 31⁄2 to 4 cups sweetened flaked coconut Cake: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mist two 9-inch round cake pans with vegetable oil spray and dust with flour. Place cake mix, milk, 1/2 cup cream of coconut and eggs in a large mixing bowl and beat on low speed until the ingredients are incorporated, about 30 seconds. Scrap sides of the bowl and increase mixer speed to medium and beat for another 11⁄2 minutes longer. Divide the cake batter evenly between prepared pans and bake until layers are light brown and the tops spring back with lightly pressed with a finger, 18 to 23 minutes.

Frosting: Place the sour cream and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl and beat on low speed for 11⁄2 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula then increase mixer speed to medium and beat until the sugar has dissolved, 2 minutes longer. Add the whipped topping and beat on low until well blended. Stir in 3 cups of coconut and beat on low until mixed. Place the frosting in the refrigerator to chill for at least 10 minutes.

Remove cakes from oven. Allow to cool in pans for about 5 minutes, then remove to finish cooling on wire racks, right side up.

While cooling, use a small brush to gently brush the tops of the cake with the remaining cream of coconut. Let the cakes cool completely.

Use a large serrated knife to cut each cake in half horizontally to make four layers.

To assemble the cake, transfer one layer, cut side up, to a serving platter. Spread the top with 1/4 of the frosting. Repeat this process with the remaining layers.

About Kristan Kristan Roland, a work-athome housewife living in Fort Smith, has been blogging at Confessions of a Cookbook Queen since 2010. She works with brands such as Pillsbury, Disney and eBay. confessionsofacookbookqueen.com April 2017

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ALMOND JOY CANDY CAKE Cake 2 cups all-purpose flour 11⁄2 cups granulated sugar 1 tsp. baking powder 1 cup salted butter 1 cup water 1/2 cup sour cream 2 large eggs 2 tsp. almond extract Frosting 2 sticks salted butter, softened 1/4 cup heavy cream 2 tsp. coconut extract 4 cups powdered sugar Chocolate coating 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips 4 or 5 tbsp. vegetable oil 1 cup almonds, roughly chopped Cake: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Coat a 12x18-inch rimmed baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.

In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt and baking powder and set aside. In a medium saucepan, combine the butter and

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water and bring to a boil. Once it comes to a rolling boil, remove from the heat and stir it into the flour mixture until combined and slightly cooled. Whisk in the sour cream, eggs, and almond extract.

Spread batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes, until edges are brown and center springs back when lightly touched. Remove cake from oven and let cool completely in the pan.

Frosting: In the bowl of your mixer, combine butter, heavy cream and coconut extract. Beat on medium speed until smooth and combined.

With the mixer speed on low, slowly add powdered sugar until just barely mixed in.

Increase mixer speed to high and beat for one minute, until light and fluffy.

Turn the cake pan so that the widest side is facing you, then cut it in half vertically so you have two square-ish pieces. Spread your frosting on one side, then place the other half of cake on top, top side down. The bottom (flat) part of the cake should be facing up.

Gently pat the cake down so it's even, then place in the freezer for about 30 minutes.

Chocolate Coating: In a microwave-safe bowl, microwave chocolate chips and

vegetable oil, stopping to stir every 30 seconds until smooth and melted. Remove cake from fridge and cut into rectangular cakes. (You can do them however large or small you want -- I did mine fairly large and ended up with about 8.) Dip each piece in the melted chocolate, letting the excess drip off.

Place coated cake pieces on prepared baking sheet, sprinkle with chopped almonds, and place back in the freezer just until set.

Keep uneaten cakes in the refrigerator to prevent melting.

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health & fitness

Tips to Avoid Tick Bites: While it is a good idea to take preventive measures against ticks year-round, be extra vigilant in warmer months (April-September) when ticks are most active.

Avoid Direct Contact with Ticks Avoid wooded and brushy areas with high grass and leaf litter. Walk in the center of trails.

Ick! A tick!

Don’t let a tick bite make you sick

R

ecently, the Arkansas Department of Health determined that two cases of tick-borne disease met the surveillance definition for Lyme disease. A case in Arkansas has not met the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) surveillance definition since 2007.

Arkansas is considered a low-incidence state for Lyme cases by the CDC. Arkansas is in the low-incidence category based on geographical patterns of disease in the United States, as well as past reports of the disease in the state.

Arkansas is among the group of 31 states where the incidence of Lyme disease has been less than 1 in 100,000 persons from 2005-2014 and among 15 states where the incidence has been under one case per million persons in the same timeframe.

In comparison, Arkansas reports a high number of cases of other tick-borne diseases, including tularemia, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and Ehrlichia all of which can be fatal.

These diseases are more prevalent in Arkansas than in most other states.

“Recognizing these two cases is consistent with Arkansas’ designation as a low-incidence state for Lyme disease,” said Dirk Haselow, state epidemiologist at ADH. “We know that Lyme is rare here, and we encourage doctors and patients to consider other diagnoses first.

However, we are committed to finding cases of Lyme when they do occur. If a test for Lyme is done, it is important for the testing to be done correctly to meet the case definition. Doctors and patients can learn about proper testing and reporting for suspected Lyme cases on our website.”

Following the clinical diagnosis of Lyme by a health care provider, the patient should consult

with their physician or an infectious disease specialist to determine if treatment is needed.

The Arkansas Department of Health follows the CDC guidelines for reporting confirmed cases. Limitations in testing do sometimes lead to false positives or cases that are missed.

Arkansas patients who have traveled in states where Lyme is prevalent, such as Northeastern and Midwestern states, are the most commonly diagnosed cases.

ADH conducts a variety of activities to assess Lyme disease activity in Arkansas, including research partnerships with the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville, and the CDC. ADH posts reports of tick-associated diseases publically to the agency website and conducts numerous educational activities on tick associated diseases in Arkansas.

Courtesy of the Arkansas Department of Health

Arkansas is a habitat for American Dog Ticks, Black Legged Ticks, Brown Dog Ticks, Gulf Coast Ticks and Lone Star Ticks, all of which bite humans and animals. The CDC does not yet include Arkansas as a geographic area where Lyme disease is a danger, but has confirmed cases. It is a high-incidence state for tularemia, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and Ehrlichia, all carried by ticks. Take tick bites seriously and watch for symptoms.

Repel Ticks with DEET or Permethrin Use repellents that contain 20 percent to 30 percent DEET on exposed skin and clothing for protection that lasts several hours. Follow instructions. Adults should apply this product to kids, avoiding hands, eyes and mouth.

Use products that contain permethrin on clothing. Treat clothes and gear, such as boots, pants, socks and tents, with products containing 0.5 percent permethrin. It remains protective through several washings.

Find and Remove Ticks Bathe or shower as soon as possible after coming indoors to wash off and more easily find ticks that are crawling on you. Conduct a fullbody tick check using a hand-held or full-length mirror to view all parts of your body. Check children for ticks under the arms, in and around the ears, inside the belly button, behind the knees, between the legs, around the waist and in their hair.

Remove ticks with tweezers, by grasping the tick firmly, close to the skin, and pulling slowly and straight away from the skin. Avoid home remedies such as burning the tick. Disinfect the wound and remember its location. As a precaution, preserve the dead tick in a sealed container of isopropyl alcohol in case symptoms develop, such as a red ring of inflammation around the bite.

Pets Need Tick Prevention, Too Ticks can ride into the home on pets or bite and infect the animals with diseases, too. Check your pets regularly and use the same tick removal method. Consult a veterinarian for appropriate tick prevention treatments that kill or repel ticks.

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fashion & fitness goodies

Carroty Easter basket from Inscriptions, peachy tote from Hanger Management, Popatu Easter dress from Baby Chic and Vitamin B3 soap and serum from Colquitt & Co., all at GreenPointe Shopping Center.

Pure goat milk soap and detoxifying sea salt blend all by Simplified found at The Potting Shed.

Protective sunscreen and mineral cosmetics found at Gambill Spa.

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fashion & fitness goodies

Gabriel & Co. 2-carat diamond ring found at the Diamond Center.

All-natural Aveda weightless volumizers available at Metropolis Hair Studio.

Trekz wireless, sweat-resistant headphones from True Grit Running.

Arabella polarized sunglasses

by Tom Ford, available from Dr. Steven B. Stiles Optometrist.

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fashion & fitness goodies Brushies limited edition gift set and baby book from Lucy Darling found at Katiebug’s.

Vintage ball caps found at Firefly Boutique with Musee bath bombs handmade in Mississippi from Natural Treasures.

Brighton zipper wallets from Greenwood Flowers and Gifts.

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fashion & fitness goodies Forevermark Black Label Douglas Elliott 3.03-carat solitaire found at Newton's Jewelers.

Seersucker striped dress and romper by Kaptial K and a monogrammable duck found at Polka-Dotted Zebra.

Kitty teapot, book safe and Earl Grey hand soap from Vintage Finds inside BrickCity Emporium.

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fashion & fitness goodies

Baseball T-shirts from the gift shop at Coleman’s Pharmacy.

Women’s leather vest with grommets and side lacing available at Old Dog Leather.

Matrix total results Brass Off hair products found at Vanity Calls.

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MUSIC

April 1 Hourglass Jazz CD Release The Hourglass Jazz Band will be having a CD release party. Enjoy the evening of smooth jazz. 7 p.m. Movie Lounge, 7601 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-226-3595 movieloungefsm.com

JHS Vocal Jazz April 1 VoiceJam Competition The hottest vocal bands from around the world compete for the title of VoiceJam Champion. Cheer on these harmonizing-dancing-beatboxing-mindblowing groups. The audience can cast votes. The finalists are Beauties & The Beat of University of Texas at Austin; WOW Voice Group of South China University of Technology; Lark of the University of Colorado Denver; UC Vocaholics of the University of Cincinnati, JHS Vocal Jazz of Jacksonville, Ark., High School and The Texas Songhorns of the University of Texas at Austin. $15. 7:30 a.m. Walton Arts Center, 495 West Dickson Street, Fayetteville, Ark. 479-443-5600 waltonartscenter.org April 1-2 Giselle Western Arkansas Ballet brings the iconic classical ballet “Giselle” to the stage featuring a cast of 55 talented dancers. Tickets are $25 for adults and $15 for children and students. Purchase tickets online, at the WAB Studio, 4701 Grand Avenue, or at the ArcBest PAC Box Office two hours prior to each show. 7:30 p.m. April 1; 2:30 p.m. April 2. ArcBest Performing Arts Center, 55 South 7th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. waballet.org April 1-2 5-8 FSLT: Things My Mother Taught Me After driving halfway across the country, a young couple is moving into their first apartment together. Imagine their surprise when all their parents show up to help! Funny and touching, this true-to-life comedy about love and family will hit close to home for everyone.This play by Katherine DiSavino will be directed

by Ian Miller. $12. 7:30 evening performances; 2 p.m.

April 2. Fort Smith Little Theatre, 401 North 6th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-2966 fslt.org

& performance

Bonded: The Music of James Bond APRIL

Paying tribute to the music of James Bond and all things British, this thrilling concert is for those who like their music shaken, not stirred! The symphony will play Bond classics selected from the scores of “Diamonds are Forever,” “GoldenEye,” “For Your Eyes Only,” “A View to a Kill,” “Goldfinger,” “Moonraker” and “Live and Let Die.”

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Under the direction of John Jeter, with special guests vocalist Jamiee Paul and trumpet soloist Leif Shires, this special program includes The Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra, narrated by Fort Smith Mayor Sandy Sanders.

The program Elgar: Pomp and Circumstance March No. 1 in D major Britten: The Young Persons’ Guide to the Orchestra, op. 34 (1946) and Music of James Bond In honor of the James Bond theme, Umarex/Walther has generously donated airguns and other cool products for a raffle supporting the Fort Smith Symphony. First prize is the iconic Walther PPK .380 pistol, the weapon of choice of James Bond. Raffle tickets are only $5 each and with eight prizes, the odds are great to win.

Michael Rellan, Cameron Law and Duff Taylor of the cast of ‘Things My Mother Taught Me.’

Phone for ticket availability or raffle tickets. 7:30 p.m. ArcBest Performing Arts Center, 55 South 7th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-7575 fortsmithsymphony.org April 2017

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MUSIC & PERFORMANCE April 23 The Parnells Enjoy a night of Southern Gospel Music with The Parnells. 6-8 p.m. The Lighthouse Family Worship Center, U.S. 71 South, Witcherville, Ark. 479-928-5654

April 2 John Brown University Cathedral Choir in Concert In preparation for their upcoming May tour of Northern Ireland, John Brown University’s Cathedral Choir will perform in concert at Covenant Presbyterian Church. The choir, comprised of 68 students from 15 states and four countries, will sing pieces ranging from the early 17th century to recent compositions.

Audiences will hear many different styles of music, from Jakob Handl (Gallus’) composition “Exultate Justi in Domino” to the rousing spiritual “Witness” composed by Jack Halloran. Other pieces include “What Wondrous Love is This” by Robert Scholz and a beautiful original composition by Zack Stanton, “The Beatitudes.” An offering will be taken for the travel costs of the choir’s tour/missions trip to Ireland. Free.

5:30 p.m. Covenant Presbyterian Church, 120 North 9th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-242-7737

April 28-29 Guys and Dolls Community School of the Arts presents the Youth Theatre Company in a full-length production of this classic musical. Memorable songs from the show include “Luck Be a Lady” and “Sit Down You’re Rockin’ the Boat.” The company of local actors, previously at the UAFS Academy of the Arts, has won numerous national awards and will be entering this show in the National Youth Arts competition. $5, $10. 7-9:30 p.m.

ArcBest Performing Arts Center, 55 South 7th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-434-2020 csafortsmith.org John Fullbright April 7 AACLIVE: John Fullbright There aren’t many artists who can stop you in your tracks with a single song like John Fullbright. Fulbright got his start at the legendary Blue Door listening room in Oklahoma City where he recorded his first live album. His 2012 studio debut, “From the Ground Up,” received a Grammy nomination for Americana Album of the Year and later that year he won an ASCAP award for lyric writing. In 2014, John released the critically acclaimed “Songs” album and toured America and the UK. $25. 7:30 p.m. 801 Media Center, 801 North A Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-883-9488 AACLive.com

Taj Express April 4 Taj Express: The Bollywood Musical Revue Taj Express explodes with the sounds and sights of India, capturing the vibrant, expressive spirit of the world of Bollywood movies that has entertained millions of people for generations. Through a fusion of film, dance and music, this dazzling international sensation will take audiences on a live cinematic journey through modern Indian culture and society. This production is foremost a high-energy celebration of new India’s pop music, Bollywood culture and deep traditions featuring colorful costumes, joyful dance and thrilling live music. $35-$65. 7 p.m. Baum Walker Hall, Walton Arts Center, 495 West Dickson Street, Fayetteville, Ark. 479-443-5600 April 5 Annie Leapin’ Lizards! If you missed the national touring performance of this show last year, here is another chance to see the same production, with the same wonderful set and cast.

This beloved musical features unforgettable songs such as “It’s the Hard Knock Life,” “Easy Street” and the eternal anthem “Tomorrow.” $41, $32, $25 for adults, $31, $22, $15 for children. Alma Performing Arts Center, 103 East Main Street, Alma, Ark. 7:30 p.m.

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April 7 Blues Traveler CenterStage presents the harmonica heroes Blues Traveler in concert. $39 tickets are on sale now. 8 p.m.

Choctaw Casino & Resort, 3400 Choctaw Road, Pocola, Okla. 800-745-3000 choctawcasino.com

April 18-23 The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time After being falsely accused of killing a neighbor’s dog, Christopher, who is brilliant but has difficulty dealing with the sounds and stresses of everyday life, decides to investigate the crime. The secrets he unearths prompt him to leave his trusted teacher and the familiar streets of his hometown for a life-changing train trip to London. Based on Mark Haddon’s best-selling 2003 novel, this is a thrilling and heartwarming adventure story featuring an unforgettable young hero.Staged in a box-like set, the play uses projections, music, sound effects and choreography to illuminate Christopher’s whirling thoughts. Eight performance. $35-$65. Walton Arts Center, 495 West Dickson Street, Fayetteville, Ark. 479-443-5600 waltonartscenter.org

A.J. Croce April 29 Celebrity Concert: A.J. Croce A.J. Croce has built a following with his piano-pounding interpretations of Americana roots music but he's also so talented he's toured through rock and soul.

Although he is the son of a beloved musician, Croce can say he has a name of his own after a long career in recording and exciting live performance. $25 premium; $15 general. Ozark Folk Center State Park – Large Auditorium, 1032 Park Avenue, Mountain View, Ark. 800-264-3655 OzarkFolkCenter.com April 29 The Trials of Alice in Wonderland Musical Mansfield High School presents this fast-paced and witty musical is set in Wonderland’s courtroom, where Alice is on trial. Poor Alice must try to prove her innocence by re-living the adventures we’ve all come to love. Her crime? Growing and changing. To win the case and keep her head, Alice must embrace the truth about who she is and be willing to wake up from the dream of Wonderland. 7 p.m. April 29; 3 p.m. April 30.$2 for adults and $1 for children 12 and under. 7 p.m. Mansfield High School, 402 Grove Street, Mansfield, Ark. 479-928-1105 mansfieldtigers.org May 6 Decades Rewind Featuring the top hits of the golden age of music from the ’60s to the ’80s, Decades Rewind is a veritable time machine of amazing music that will never fade away. $28-$48. 7:30-9:45 p.m. Fort Smith Convention Center, 55 South 7th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 800-965-9324 fortsmithconventioncenter.org

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MUSIC & PERFORMANCE

UAFS Jazz Concert with Vincent DiMartino Jazz students at the University of ArkansasFort Smith will showcase their talents in concert with featured guest, trumpeter Vince DiMartino. The Jazz Catz and Jazz Band will perform a varied program APRIL of music from artists including Frank Sinatra, 21 Pilots, Michael Buble, Queen, and Aretha Franklin.

A world-class musician, DiMartino has traveled with some of the top college jazz ensembles in America and has been the lead and solo trumpet in the Lionel Hampton Band, the Chuck Mangione Band, the Clark Terry Band, and the Eastman Arranger’s Holiday Vincent DiMartino Orchestra, in addition to numerous other appointments and accolades throughout his musical career.

“This will be a high-voltage show, highlighting the powerful sounds of the Jazz Band, the tight vocal harmonies and diversity of the Jazz Catz and the dazzling trumpet licks of Vince DiMartino,” said Don Bailey, director of the Jazz Catz. “Mr. DiMartino is a worldclass trumpet player with a ‘Who’s Who’ list of achievements. Our students are thrilled to have the opportunity to perform with him, and it should prove to be a memorable and educational experience for them.”

Dr. Christopher Barrick, head of the Department of Music and director of the Jazz Band, said the concert will be an exciting show.

“The UAFS jazz concerts are always special performances, but it becomes even more special when we are joined by a world-renowned guest artist like trumpeter Vince DiMartino,” Barrick said. “I have worked with Mr. DiMartino before, and I was greatly impressed by him as a performer, educator and a wonderful person.

He was a joy to work with and we’re excited to have him in Fort Smith working with our students.”

Tickets $8. 7:30 p.m. ArcBest Performing Arts Center, 55 South 7th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-7300

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MUSIC & PERFORMANCE

LIVE in local clubs

La Huerta Patio Stage Voted by Entertainment Fort Smith readers as their “Favorite Patio Dining,” patrons can also enjoy live local music. 400 Garrison Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark.

River City April 8 Bands for Babies Benefit This concert supports the Diaper Dandies ministry.

Music provided by River City, Sierra Star and Wavy Davy, The Remnants and The Don Bailey Jazz Combo.

A silent auction and donations will help a team at St. Paul Methodist Church supply babies with diapers.

A family-friendly event. 6-10 p.m. La Huerta Patio Stage, 400 Garrison Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-3655

Choctaw Casino Resort - Pocola

7+,6 0251,1*

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 CenterStage April 7 Blues Traveler 21 El Poder Del Norte

7+( 2)),&,$/ 1(:6 2) 0251,1* 3(23/( April 1 Crued and Tattooed 5 Larry B., every Wednesday 6 Jackpot Karaoke, every Thursday 7 Texas Flood 8 Tragikly White 14 Poison Overdose 15 Vegas McGraw 21 Rick Trevino 22 Dead Metal Society 28 Backroad Anthem 29 Trio Grande

All performances are subject to change without notice. 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 by email to calendar@efortsmith.com or ask about purchasing advertisement.

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MUSIC & PERFORMANCE

Walton Arts Center reveals next Broadway Series Entertainment decisions must be made. The Walton Arts Center has opened season subscription ticket packages for its Broadway series. Order by April 7 for a discount. There are tiers of choices that allow subscribers to make their own selection six, seven or eight shows. Tickets can be purchased online at waltonartscenter.org.

Oct. 3-8 Rodgers & Hammerstein's “The King and I” Two worlds collide in the Lincoln Center Theater production of this “breathtaking and exquisite” (The New York Times) musical, directed by Bartlett Sher. One of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s finest works, “The King and I” boasts a score that features such beloved classics as “Getting To Know You,” “I Whistle a Happy Tune,” “Hello Young Lovers,” “Shall We Dance” and “Something Wonderful.” Set in 1860s Bangkok, the musical tells the story of the unconventional and tempestuous relationship that develops between the King of Siam and Anna Leonowens, a British schoolteacher whom the modernist King, in an imperialistic world, brings to Siam to teach his many wives and children.

Winner of the 2015 Tony Award for Best Musical Revival.

Nov. 7-12 Irving Berlin’s “White Christmas” Irving Berlin’s “White Christmas” tells the story of a song-and-dance team putting on a show at a magical Vermont inn and falling for a stunning sister act in the process. Full of dancing, laughter and some of the greatest songs ever written, give everyone the gift they’re dreaming of with this merry and bright holiday musical.

Dec. 19-23 Finding Neverland The winner of Broadway.com’s Audience Choice Award for Best Musical. Directed by visionary Tony winner Diane Paulus and based on the critically acclaimed Academy Award-winning film, “Finding Neverland” tells the story behind one of the world’s most-beloved characters: Peter Pan. This breathtaking show follows playwright J.M. Barrie as he summons the courage to become the writer – and the man – he yearns to be. Barrie finds the inspiration he’s been missing when he meets four young brothers and their beautiful widowed mother.

Spellbound by the boys’ enchanting make-believe adventures, he sets out to write a play that will astound theatergoers.

Jan. 19-21 Cabaret Based on Roundabout Theatre Company’s Tony Award-winning production, Sam Mendes (“Skyfall” and “American Beauty”) and Rob Marshall’s (“Into the Woods” and “Chicago”), Cabaret debuts at Walton Arts Center in January. Hear some of the most memorable songs in theater history, including “Cabaret,” “Willkommen” and “Maybe This Time.” Leave your troubles outside – life is beautiful at Cabaret – John Kander, Fred Ebb and Joe Masteroff ’s Tony-winning musical about following your heart while the world loses its way.

Feb. 6-11 An American in Paris “An American in Paris” is a Tony Award-winning musical about an American soldier, a mysterious French girl and an indomitable European city, each yearning for a new beginning in the aftermath of war.

Acclaimed director/choreographer and 2015 Tony Award-winner Christopher Wheeldon brings the magic and romance of Paris into perfect harmony with unforgettable songs from George and Ira Gershwin in the show that earned more awards than any other musical in the 2015 Broadway season.

March 2-4 RENT In 1996, an original rock musical by a little-known composer opened on Broadway and forever changed the landscape of American theater.

Two decades later, Jonathan Larson’s “RENT” continues to speak loudly and defiantly to audiences across generations. This Pulitzer Prize- and Tony Award-winning masterpiece returns to the stage in a 20th anniversary touring production. A re-imagining of Puccini's “La Bohème,” “RENT” follows an unforgettable year in the lives of seven artists struggling to follow their dreams without selling out.

April 24 Beautiful – The Carole King Musical This is the Tony- and Grammy Award-winning true story of Carole King’s remarkable rise to stardom, from being part of a hit songwriting team with her husband, Gerry Goffin, to her relationship with fellow writers and best friends Cynthia Weil and Barry Mann, to becoming one of the most successful solo acts in popular music history. Along the way, she made more than beautiful music, she wrote the soundtrack to a generation.

May 15-20 The Sound of Music A brand new production of “The Sound of Music” returns by popular demand. The beloved musical story of Maria and the von Trapp family will once again thrill audiences with its Tony, Grammy and Academy Award-winning Best Score, including “My Favorite Things,” “Edelweiss” and the title song. “The Sound of Music” enjoyed extraordinary success as a live television production when “The Sound of Music Live!” aired on NBC in December 2013 and was seen by more than 44 million people. 2015 marked the 50th anniversary of the film version, which continues to be the most successful movie musical in history.

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KIDS

calendar of events

April 1-29 RAM Saturdays This casual make-and-take program is a fun, handson exploration of a different medium or type of art each week. Participants will experiment with techniques and materials in the Regional Arts Museum’s studio and have the opportunity to make their own original works of art. This month’s activities includes thumbprint dandelions, basket weaving, egg characters, mosaic art and rainbow fish. Free. Noon-5 p.m.

RAM, 1601 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-784-2787 April 3-24 Board Game Mondays Tweens and teens meet to play different board games and enjoy refreshments. Free. 4 p.m. Free. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 April 3-25 Teen Time The Van Buren Public Library hosts a variety of activities for tween and teens. Participate in crafts, games and science. Free. 3:30 p.m. Mondays and Tuesdays.

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

Todd Oliver and His Real Talking Dog Todd Oliver is a nationally recognized comedian/ventriloquist/musician, featuring Irving, America's favorite real talking dog. This is a familyfriendly event that's been voted "Best Comedy Variety Performance" and "Best Dinner Show" at the Branson All-American Entertainment Awards. Oliver has also had several TV appearances, including "America's Got Talent," "Late Show with David Letterman," "Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson," "The Today Show," "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno," Penn and Teller's Sin City Sensational, The Oak Ridge Boys "Live in Las Vegas" and even a couple of episodes of "Walker, Texas Ranger." $15. 7 p.m.

Van Buren Performing Arts Center, 2001 East Pointer Trail, Van Buren, Ark. 479-883-2828 centerforfinearts.org

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April 1 Lawbreakers & Peacemakers Wild West Fun Fest The imaginary town of Judgment was created on a block near the Fort Smith National Historic Site for activities by the Lawbreakers & Peacemakers Western re-enactor troupe. The Wild West Fun Fest will be held there for kids and families. Kids games such as 3legged race, tow sack jump, tug of war and more begin at 11 a.m. At noon, there’s a High Noon Shootout. Shooting demonstrations at 1 p.m. are followed by live music and wagon rides. At 3 p.m. there is a Belle Starr shooting demonstration and historical presentation. An auction and fundraiser begins at 5 p.m. Free. 11 a.m.-6:30 p.m. The Town of Judgment, 300 Parker Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-670-3292 lawbreakersandpeacemakersinc.com

April 1-2 Giselle Western Arkansas Ballet brings the iconic classical ballet, Giselle, to the stage featuring a cast of 55 talented dancers. Tickets are $25 for adults and $15 for children and students through university (purchase student ticket and present university id with ticket at the door). Purchase tickets online, at the WAB Studio, 4701 Grand Avenue, or at the ArcBest PAC Box Office two hours prior to each show. 7:30 p.m. April 1; 2:30 p.m. April 2. ArcBest Performing Arts Center, 55 South 7th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. waballet.org

April 3-May 30 Open Registration at CSA Community School of the Arts is now taking registrations for summer camps and activities. Activities include summer camps in Visual Art and Musical Theatre along with preschool music programs and private lessons in music, theater, dance and visual art.

All ages and levels from children through teens are encouraged to register. Download registrations at csafortsmith.org, email info@csafortsmith.org or call for more information. Tuition and class times vary. St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church, 2701 Old Greenwood Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-434-2020 csafortsmith.org April 4 Primetime Story Time: Hooray for Spring!

Join us for our April primetime story time program featuring stories, crafts, refreshments, and other springtime FUN! Bring your friends and join us at this free family friendly evening story program for kids of all ages! Please note the new day of the week (Tuesday) for Primetime Story Time. Free. 6 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org April 4-25 Baby and Me Babies from birth to age 3 and caregivers can enjoy songs, finger plays, bubbles, parachute play, a story and playtime. It is an opportunity for social interaction with both babies and their adults and supports early literacy and language skills. Free. 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045

April 4-25 Toolbox Tuesday Tweens and teens meet at the library to build and craft something new every week. Free. 4 p.m. Tuesdays.

Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 April 2017

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L I F L O W E R S Q E I X O

APRIL BASKET BONNET BUNNY

E E G I B L A E S U S T O H

I T U L I P S B A S B W H L

A J K I W L T R R K B M H E

CANDY CARROT CHICKS CHOCOLATE

T T K E P A E C G C A N D Y

E G G S J P R R H I S T W A

N A P P B E I O W H K O R C

CROSS DECORATE DUCK DYE

N P D D M U C S C C E R P I

O R Y D A O J S W D T R O R

EASTER EGGS FLOWERS GRASS

B I E D L B P K H E X A J F

G L H A U U E T A R O C E D

W O T A S N E N M O P P U O

HAM HOP HUNT JESUS

J E S U S N P U W D K C L O

L A M D Y Y S H O P K L U G

LAMB LILIES PEEPS TULIPS

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April 4 Teen Authors Book Signing Teen authors Amy Ward and Olivia Cayenne will talk about their book “Secrets Above.” When the world becomes chaos, a group of people goes into hiding in a large bunker. Ninety nears later, they are still there. But what if they want out? What if there is life outside after all this time? What if the government is lying to them about the outside world? These are the questions Amelia, and her close friends need answers to. Amelia is like everyone else in Terra Convex, except for her curious mind and outspoken attitude. She wants to ask questions. She wants to know what awaits outside. She wants to go out. But the government won’t let her. So, what happens when she finally has proof?

Will the people want out of their “safe place?” Will the government ever give them the chance? Books will be able for purchase and signing. Free. 3:30 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045

KIDS EVENTS

April 5 The National Tour of Annie If you missed the national touring performance of this show in Fayetteville last year, here is another opportunity to see the very same production, with the same wonderful set and cast. Unlike most of the other children at Miss Hannigan’s orphanage, Annie believes that her parents are still alive and will one day return to claim her. So when Mr. Warbucks offers to adopt her, she asks the most powerful man in America to help find her real mom and dad instead, Warbuck’s whopping reward for Annie’s parents attracts the attention of con artists who hatch a plot to kidnap Annie and take the $50,000 reward. But don’t fret: This classic family musical has a happy ending for Annie, Daddy Warbucks and the whole gang. The world’s best-loved musical return in time-honored form. Featuring unforgettable songs such as “It’s the Hard Knock Life,” “Easy Street,” and the eternal anthem of optimism, “Tomorrow.” Fun for the whole family, we are offering discounted tickets for children 12 and under. $25-$41. 7:30 p.m. Alma Performing Arts Center, 103 East Main, Alma, Ark. 479-632-2129 almapac.org April 5-26 Story Time Children’s story time is a great time to hear new stories, sing songs, make crafts, make friends and check out some books. Books on spring, Easter, bubbles and frogs will be read. Free. 9:30 a.m. or 11 a.m. Wednesdays. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 April 5-26 Teen Time Game day for teens with board games and tournaments for popular collector card games. Free. 3:30 p.m. Wednesday. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 April 2017

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April 5-26 Preschool Story Time Read books, sing songs and do crafts together. 10 a.m. Wednesdays. Free. Mountainburg Public Library, 1300 U.S. 71 North, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-1600

April 5-26 Toddler Time Story time themes include tales about ducks, Easter, goats and rainbows. Free. 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays.

Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 April 5-26 Preschool Story Time Hear stories about growing things, Easter, fish and the beach. Free. 10 a.m. Wednesdays. Cedarville Public Library, 737 Pirates Way, Cedarville, Ark. 479-410-1853

April 5-26 Mommy & Me Story time for babies and toddlers to enjoy with their parents or caregivers. Free. 10 a.m. Wednesdays.

Mulberry Public Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226 April 5-26 Wii Wednesday Tweens and teens play a different Wii game and have awesome competitions. Free. 4 p.m. Wednesdays.

Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140

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April 6 Magic the Gathering Take your wits, skills and, of course, cards to the library’s Magic: The Gathering Meetup. Newcomers and veterans of the game alike are welcome to play for fun or practice for upcoming tournaments. Magic: The Gathering is a card game of strategy and luck using creatures, spells and enchantments to drain your opponent’s life force before they do the same to you. Ages 8-18 are welcome, as well as families. Free.

4-7 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229

April 7-21 Reading with a Dog Kids are invited to read with a dog. This program is a win/win for a young reader and a local shelter dog.

Studies have shown that reading aloud to a dog can improve a child’s reading skill and promote confidence. Sign up for an individual, 10-minute reading time. The Sebastian County Humane Society Mobile Adoption Unit be present to offer adoptions and donations. Free. 3:30 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045

April 6 Magazine Art This magazine art craft for teens and tweens is the prettiest one yet. Create cool art pieces using recycled magazines. Create a bear, sunglasses, words and more. Free. 4 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140

April 8 Kids Kite Flight Enjoy the breeze while flying kites in Hulbert. Gather at Three Forks Nature Center to take advantage of the Oklahoma wind propelling your vibrant kite across the vast, blue sky. Free. 1 p.m. Sequoyah State Park, 17131 Park 10, Wagoner, Okla. 918-772-2046 800-368-1486

April 6-27 Story Time Books, songs and crafts for preschool-age children.

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

April 8 Boys & Girls Club Super Star Showcase Participants in the Umoja Soul NWA program will appear as outstanding figures of the past and present.

Students in character as figures such as Bill Gates, Eli Whitney, Elizabeth Taylor, John Wayne, Abraham Lincoln, Maya Angelou and many more will each speak a quote from or give a brief biography of their super star as they walk a runway. This presentation helps youth develop confidence, self-esteem and literacy.

Free. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Jeffreys Boys & Girls Club, 4905 North O Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-782-7093

April 6-27 After-School Programs All ages are welcome to play games and crafts. April 27 is Lego Brick Builders. Take LEGO classes at 3:30 or 4 p.m. or enjoy free play and build original creations. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045

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April 8 CAE Youth Theatre: Bedbugs by Leah Genuario Marie is a little girl who likes to jump on her bed, but to the bed bugs being squished underfoot, she is the wicked witch who causes earthquakes. See what happens when Marie discovers bugs in her bed. This play is crawling with laughter as the microscopic citizens of Marie’s bed come to terms with their dilemma. This play reminds us that there are always two sides to every story and that conflict is best resolved peacefully. $5 children; $10 adults. 2 p.m. King Opera House, 427 Main, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-7767

April 8, 29 Girl Scout Camp Family Day and Open House Sample what camp has to offer. Activities will include archery, canoeing, hiking and more. Meet the camp director and summer camp staff and tour camper housing options and other facilities. Also, all campage girls attending will be entered into a drawing to win a free week of resident camp. Please wear socks, closed-toed shoes, insect repellent and sun block.

Noon-4 p.m. April 8, Camp Cahinnio, 460 Cahinnio Road, Booneville, Ark.; Noon-4 p.m. April 29, Camp Crossed Arrows, 250 Crossed Arrow Lane, Floral, Ark. larcher@girlscoutsdiamonds.org, 870-251-1292 girlscoutsdiamonds.org April 8-29 River Valley Student Art Competition Students from the River Valley Area were invited to enter their original artwork in the River Valley Student Art Competition. The competition is open to K-12 students in Sebastian, Crawford, Franklin and Logan

KIDS EVENTS

counties in Arkansas and bordering counties in Oklahoma. Student work will be juried by Suzanne King and Steven Holmes, both Arkansas artists. Last year, more than 600 entries were received, juried and displayed at the Center For Art & Education and the Van Buren Senior Center. The competition is sponsored by the Fiori Family Foundation, including cash prizes and certificates awarded for the top four artists in four age categories. The public is invited to attend both exhibition openings. Light refreshments will be served.

Free. 1-4 p.m. Center For Art & Education, 104 North 13th Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-7767 art-ed.org April 10 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

April 11 Teen Swap Your Stuff Teens, have some spring cleaning and decluttering to do? Out with the old and in with the new! Trade stuff you no longer want or need (books, DVDs, CDs or games) for a one-to-one exchange for something that someone else brings. Items for trade will be in the Youth Services Department. Free. 3:30-5:30 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org

April 11 Teen Jelly Bean Craft Bracelet Register in advance to make a bracelet. Free. 3:30 p.m. Mulberry Public Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226

April 12 We Love Libraries! Story Time Celebrate National Library Week at this story time about libraries and why we love them. Enjoy stories, crafts and snacks. Preschool Story Time is held every Wednesday. 10:30 a.m. Dallas Branch Library, 8100 Dallas Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-484-5650 April 13 Teen Leadership Council Meeting Teens can suggest library activities and plans at the council. 3:30 p.m. Cedarville Public Library, 737 Pirates Way, Cedarville, Ark. 479-410-1853

April 13 Easter Egg Hunt & Movie Enjoy an egg hunt throughout the library and movie for all ages to celebrate this Easter season. Take a basket for the eggs. 4 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140

April 13 Spring Make & Take Crafts Spring is in the air! Crafts are in the library! A variety of spring-themed crafts will be available for making and taking at this open-house-style family event. Free.

11 a.m.-6 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229

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April 14 Teen Movie Time Watch a movie, have some popcorn and relax! Free.

2 p.m. Mulberry Public Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226 April 14-15 Venomous Snakes of Arkansas Through a live snake presentation, local reptile enthusiasts Jeremy Sloan and Brad Birchfield will explain how to identify Arkansas’ most common snakes, venomous vs. nonvenomous, and how to avoid them.

Free. 6:30-8 p.m. Arkansas River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-3993 rivervalleynaturecenter.com

April 15 Cre8ive Arts Network Easter Fest & Egg Hunt Live bands, craft vendors, free Easter egg hunt and games for kids. Beside food purchases or face-painting, everything else is free for kids. 1-4 p.m. Cre8ive Arts Network, 7408 Terry Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-312-7111 facebook.com/canvasar

April 15 Peanuts Education Say goodbye to the “Heartbreak in Peanuts” exhibit by creating a watercolor painting featuring Charlie Brown and his faithful dog, Snoopy. The exhibition features 50 high-quality digital reproductions of original Peanuts comic strips that focus on narratives of lost love. These one-sided love stories include Sally and her “Sweet Babboo,” Snoopy left standing at the altar, Lucy throwing Schroeder’s piano in the sewer, and Charlie Brown’s mission to meet the Little Red-

Haired Girl. Free. Noon-5 p.m. Fort Smith Regional Art Museum, 1601 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-784-2787 ram.org

April 29 Strawberry Festival and Kids Fishing Tournament Enjoy a fun day on the farm for the whole family. Pick your own juicy, ripe strawberries, go for a hayride or just relax on the deck with a cool drink as you enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Other festivities include a petting zoo, crafts and children's activities. The kids fishing tournament, which will be from 10 a.m. to noon, is for kids through 16 years. Take your own fishing poles and bait. Prizes will be awarded to three age groups. This year’s strawberry festival begins at 8 a.m. and also includes pony rides, mountain slide, jumping pillow and petting farm. The snack bar will have strawberry Belgium waffles. Free. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Wild Things Farm, 700 Beaty Avenue, Pocola, Okla. 918-626-4053 April 17 LEGO Club Kids are invited to design and build unique creations with the Lego Club. Lego bricks are provided – just take your imagination. Free. 5-6 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229

April 19 Fun with Recycling!

Celebrate Earth Day with this special story time for preschool-age children featuring seasonal stories, a craft made of recycled materials and snacks. Free.

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

April 20 Children’s Author Visit and Book Signing Author Jaycee Charles will read his book “The Lonely Fish” to children. Books will be available for purchase and signing. Free. 4 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 April 20 Bookworms Book Club April’s book will be “The Lions of Little Rock” by Kristin Levine. Join a fun discussion with crafts and snacks. Pick up a copy of May’s book. 4 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140

April 20 Earth Day Craft Celebrate Earth Day by making nature designs out of clay and painting earth on recycled lids. Free. 4 p.m.

Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 April 21 Wii Play Ages 12-18 can play Wii games and other consoles.

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

April 21 Community School of the Arts: Suessical the Musical Preview The Community School of the Arts Children’s Theatre will present a preview of its upcoming show. A musical perfect for the entire family takes the audience into the world of Dr. Seuss, to revisit beloved characters including The Cat in the Hat, Horton the Elephant, Gertrude McFuzz and JoJo. The CSA offers afterschool, evening and weekend activities in music, theater, dance and art for community youth.

Performances, productions and exhibits are familyfriendly. Free. 4:30 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 April 27 Kids BINGO for Books Play for a chance to win some great books for kids, tweens and teens. Free. 4 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 April 27 Air Hockey Championship Game Tweens and teens compete for an air hockey championship. Free. 4 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140

April 28 Movie Time Check online to see the movie trailer synopsis at crawfordcountylib.org. Free. 3:30 p.m. Cedarville Public Library, 737 Pirates Way, Cedarville, Ark. 479-410-1853

April 30 El Dia de los Niños/El Dia de los Libros: Children’s Day/Book Day Children and their families are invited to a día de los niños/El día de los libros (Children’s Day/Book Day) celebration. Activities include bilingual stories, crafts, snacks and door prizes. Día is a nationally recognized initiative that emphasizes the importance of literacy for all children from all backgrounds. Free. 2-3:30 p.m.

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APRIL 14 & 18

Enrollment opens for Van Buren’s virtual academy

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stablished as a charter school through the Van Buren School District, the River Valley Virtual Academy will offer students the opportunity to take courses online in a customized manner and provide for greater levels of flexibility than in the traditional classroom setting.

Participants will complete their courses independently, giving them the chance to work at a pace best suited to their learning style or ability.

The Van Buren School District was the first in the state to be approved to offer virtual learning for all grade levels. The online format will enable students to spend more time on course content if needed or advance at a quicker rate in their studies. The academy will help students the school district determines could benefit most from a virtual-based curriculum, including local home-schooled students, homebound students, accelerated learners and at-risk students who may struggle in a typical learning environment.

“Virtual learning for students is a rapidly growing sector in education,” said Jennifer Feeny, coordinator for the academy. “The River Valley Virtual Academy will provide flexible and portable education options for students in the River Valley. Our virtual academy is unique in the fact that students have the option to visit our

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campus for additional support, as well as participate in extra-curricular activities through the school district.”

The charter school will be based at Van Buren’s Freshman Academy campus. Students will have access to weekly tutoring sessions from Van Buren School District teachers. Parents also will be able to meet face-to-face with staff to discuss their child’s upcoming assignments and overall progress.

Students who reside outside the Van Buren School District must apply for enrollment to the academy under the School Choice Act by May 1. Applications for the academy will be accepted through the summer, but space is limited to 325 students.

Two public informational meetings will be held for parents and students.

April 14 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Northridge Middle School 120 Northridge Drive Van Buren, Ark.

April 18 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

VBSD Administration Building 2221 Pointer Trail East Van Buren, Ark.

888-221-3624 or RiverValleyVirtualAcademy.com.

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CALENDAR of events

April 1 Calling the Northside Class of 1967 The 50th reunion of the Northside High School Class of 1967 will be held June 9-11. Class members are invited to register and send in information. Three days of fun include a social, a breakfast and tour at the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith, a tour of the Northside campus and a banquet. For publication in the reunion program, please email your biographical information to sheri816@swbell.net.

Class members are also asked to help locate and invite all graduates. Contact Dixie Geren, 479-452-6028, degeren@aol.com or Becky Hale, 479-782-8778, rebeccahale8778@sbcglobal.net. Connect through the Facebook group “NHS ‘67 Reunion.”

April 1 Super Heroes for Autism 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run Developmental Wings will host the Super Heroes for Autism 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run. This is a great excuse to dress up as a favorite super hero. The race will start at 8 a.m. near Wells Lake and the River Valley Nature Center. Race day registration will begin at 7 a.m.

Medals for the top male and female finishers and age group awards. Prizes for best costume in individual male and female (adult and children) categories and prizes for the best team costume. $25. 8 a.m. Wells Lake, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-459-0645 April 1 3rd Annual Mulberry Edamame Festival A great start to the spring festival season with craft and food vendors, antique cars and tractors on display, live music and samples of edamame, a crop increasingly being planted around Mulberry, where a processing plant has been built. Edamame is a healthy, young, green soybean pod enjoyed fresh, dried, steamed or boiled. Expect to be offered a taste of edamame in many forms. Free activities are planned for kids and families. Little Miss Edamame pageant will be held at 10 a.m. at the stage area. Food concessions and arts and crafts vendors may apply now at the City of Mulberry website. Free.10 a.m.-4 p.m. Mulberry City Park, 419 U.S. 64 West, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1321 cityofmulberry.org April 1 Pancake Breakfast for the Never Say Never Foundation and Arkansas Freedom Fund Fill your belly with delicious pancakes to support an amazing cause. All of the money raised goes to the Never Say Never Foundation and the Arkansas Freedom Fund. The foundation, in conjunction with a local Battle with the Blades track event, helps bring awareness of limb loss and adaptive sports. The Arkansas Freedom Fund helps to provide a local veteran with the appropriate prosthetic limbs to be active and healthy through recreational events such as cycling, golfing, fishing, hunting, hiking, martial arts and other activities. Children and veterans may receive a walking prosthetic under many insurance programs, but “blades” and other adaptive prosthetics for sports and activities must be purchased out of pocket. These two organizations help those with limb loss obtain the right prosthetics to lead active lives. $8. 8-11 a.m.

Beef O’Bradys, 12200 U.S. 71 South, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-646-9464

Paws 4 Art is fun for families and salvation for fur babies APRIL

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Every member of the family, including the family pet, is invited to a day in Martin Luther King Jr. Park of art activities and events for animals at Paws 4 Art, a benefit for the Sebastian County Humane Society. Pets on leashes are very welcome, but should have a current rabies vaccination.

There’s something interesting and fun for every age. Art activities and art exhibits; a quiz bowl competition, games for kids, a silent auction, contests, food, speakers and a blessing of pets.

Admission is free, but please consider donating an item from the Sebastian County Humane Society’s wish list. Suggested items are stainless steel food and water bowls, dry dog and cat food, canned dog and cat food, clay cat litter, grooming supplies such as brushes, trimmers, nail clippers and pet shampoo, busy bones, blankets and pet beds. For the operation of the shelter, useful items include mops, bleach, floor cleaners, vacuum cleaner, laundry detergent, soap and hand sanitizer. Cash is also a very useful and needed donation.

The Mobile Adoption Van will be on-site with animals who need a safe, responsible home.

Free. Noon-5 p.m. Martin Luther King Jr. Park, Greenwood Avenue and North 0 Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-4395 sebastiancountyhumanesociety.org April 2017

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS April 1 Once Upon a Prom Dress Giveaway Prom dresses are expensive. Girls 14-19 who cannot afford a prom dress may attend a dress giveaway.

Sizes 00-24 are available and dresses are totally free.

Each girl may only receive one dress. Noon-4 p.m.

Heritage United Methodist Church, 1604 East Pointer Trail, Van Buren, Ark. 479-208-0063 onceuponapromvb.wix.com/ouap

Keep Fort Smith Beautiful Great American Cleanup Spring Litter Pick-Up Join Keep Fort Smith APRIL Beautiful by picking up litter and cleaning up the community.

Individuals, families, neighborhood watch groups, businesses, classroom projects, service organizations, clubs, Scouts and church groups are invited.

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Members of Keep Fort Smith Beautiful will be at Southside High School at 9 a.m. and will furnish gloves, trash bags, vests, T-shirts and snacks.

Pick up litter anywhere in Fort Smith or take on a suggested location. Return to place the litter into a container provided by the City of Fort Smith Sanitation Department.

A clean city promotes both economic and social growth. Take pride in Fort Smith. Free.

9 a.m.-noon. Southside High School, 4100 Gary Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-769-5309 Facebook.com/keepfortsmithbeautiful

Apr. 1 Job Seeker Program Get expert advice on how to land a job. Learn to get your online resume and application past the first level of screening and to a live person. This program, cosponsored by the Mulberry Public Library and Go Ye Services, will offer job hunting techniques and resources to help participants improve the chances of landing the jobs they pursue. Free. 11 a.m. Mulberry Public Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226 April 1 WAMN Training Class – Prairies Western Arkansas Master Naturalists will hold classes geared for Naturalists in Training, taught by a variety of college professors and field experts. For more information or to sign up as a member, call or go online to request an application 9 a.m.-3 p.m. River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-259-1799 wordpress.arkansasmasternaturalists.org April 1 Shores Lake Trail Hike TrailBlazers Hiking Club will hike on the Shores Lake Trail west loop for a round-trip distance of about 6 miles, rated moderate. There are rock gardens, springs and waterfalls as the trail follows the creek.

Take lunch and water. TrailBlazers is an open club accepting new members. Anyone who would like to join one of its day hikes may go along. Meet at Cloverleaf Plaza parking lot in Van Buren at 8:50 a.m. to carpool/caravan. 9 a.m. Shores Lake, Highway 215, Mulberry, Ark. 479-646-9562 thcfs.com April 1 Banquet at the Barn A chuckwagon dinner and dancing supports the Equestrian Zone, a program that serves children with autism and other disabilities. The evening includes a rider exhibition and silent auction. Equestrian Zone is a non-profit 501(c)3 in Russellville, Ark.that serves a radius from Fort Smith, Altus, Ozark, Paris to Conway, Ark. Equestrian Zone does hippo-therapy for children.

Some of the riders are saying their first words, eating for the first time, taking their first steps and many other skills they had not achieved through conventional therapy. $40 per adult or $50 at door. 5-9 p.m.

The Barn at the Twin Oaks Ranch, 10042 Bandy Lane, Dardanelle, Ark. 479-970-8351 equestrianzone.org April 1 Hunter Education Course The course teaches fundamentals of safe and responsible hunting. Graduates will earn a Hunter Education card. It is open to all ages. Anyone born after 1968 must complete a Hunter Education Course and carry a valid Hunter Education Card to legally hunt in Arkansas. Free. 7 a.m.-6 p.m. River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-4523993 register-ed.com

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April 1 Van Buren Farmers Market Every Wednesday and Saturday from April through December local farmers and craftspeople display their produce and art at the Van Buren Farmers Market. You will find locally sourced produce, eggs, jellies, jams and more. Upon completion of Freedom Park, the Van Buren Farmers Market will be moving to 815 Main Street. 7 a.m.-noon. Van Buren Public Library Parking Lot, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-259-7517 facebook.com/VanBurenFarmersMarket April 1 Shiitake Mushroom Log-Inoculation Crystal Bridges opens its Discover the Grounds season with a Shiitake mushroom log-inoculation workshop led by Sweden Creek Farm. Registration is limited. Participants will leave with their own mushroom log, as well as mushroom samples and recipes.

Materials provided. $30. Register online or by phone.

10 a.m.-noon. Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, 600 Museum Way, Bentonville, Ark. 479-428-5700 crystalbridges.org April 1-13 How Many Books?

National Library Week Guessing Jar How many books are in the Fort Smith Public Library?

In celebration of National Library Week, to guess how many books are in the entire Fort Smith Public Library collection. The person with closest guess will win a prize. Free. 9 a.m. All Fort Smith Public Library locations. Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 April 1-18 Free Tax Return Preparation The WestArk RSVP, a local organization of active adult volunteers 55 or older, is proud to partner with the IRS to offer Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program and Tax Counseling for the Elderly services. IRScertified volunteers are trained to help prepare free basic federal and state (Arkansas and Oklahoma) income tax returns and also offer free electronic filing.

Income limit for free tax assistance is $54,000 unless you or your spouse is 60 or older or is active duty military. WestArk RSVP will have more volunteer tax preparers this year. Free tax assistance is available 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday and Tuesday; 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Wednesday, Thursday and Friday and 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Saturday. Free. RSVP Center, corner of Grand Avenue and 13th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-629-4240 westarkrsvp.org Apr. 1-28 Spring Basket Giveaway Enter a drawing to win a Spring Basket. Library hours are 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday. Cedarville Public Library, 737 Pirates Way, Cedarville, Ark. 479-410-1853 April 1-30 Bulldog Breakfast Club Greenwood-area businesses and organizations are working to help food-insecure children and their families in the Greenwood School District have breakfast this summer. Donations of cereal and powdered milk will be accepted through April. Alpha Packaging will provide donation drop boxes at Walmart, CV’s, Walgreen’s, City Hall and the Chamber office. To host a box at your business in Greenwood, contact Tammy Briley at City Hall, Greenwood, Ark. 479-996-2742

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U.S. Marshals Museum Spring Lecture Series on Modern Law Enforcement continues with Robert Natzke

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Law Enforcement Training: Robert Natzke

The second lecture in the series will be given by Robert Natzke, retired deputy U.S. marshal and lead trainer of the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center at Glynco, Ga. He will describe the rigorous training that U.S. marshals and members other federal law enforcement trainees are given. Natzke visited Fort Smith in 2014 for the groundbreaking of the U.S. Marshals Museum and 225th anniversary of the U.S. Marshals Service. Refreshments will be available.

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Law Enforcement and Race Relations: Delrish Moss and Richard Bowen

Delrish Moss, chief of the Ferguson, Mo., Police Department, and Richard Bowen, a retired deputy U.S. marshal, will speak.

The series will conclude June 5 as a panel discussion with local, county, state and federal officials. Tickets are $15 per lecture. Available online or by phone. 6:30 p.m. DoubleTree by Hilton, 700 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith. 479-709-3766 modernlawenforcement.eventbrite.com The future U.S. Marshals Museum will be a national museum located on the riverfront in Fort Smith to tell the more-than-225-year story of the U.S. Marshals Service, the oldest federal law enforcement agency in the United States, and honor the sacrifice of marshals killed in the line of duty. For more information, visit usmmuseum.org

April 1-30 Post-it Note Poetry for National Poetry Month Poetry is for all ages. Visit any Fort Smith Public Library in April and share your poetry on a Post-it Note.

Post-it Note poetry will be displayed at the libraries all month long. Visit your neighborhood library and take a look at what others have written. Check out a few poetry books on your visit, as well. Free. All locations of the Fort Smith Public Library, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org April 1-30 Fort Smith Public Library Pet Food & Supply Drive All locations of the Fort Smith Public Library will hold a pet food and supply drive for the Sebastian County Humane Society in April. The shelter relies heavily on donations to better the care and treatment of all animals within their shelter. Items on their wish list include; dry or canned dog and cat food, dog and cat treats, clay cat litter, stainless steel dog food bowls, dog and cat toys, dog and cat beds, grooming supplies, blankets, towels, bleach, floor cleaners, laundry detergent and paper towels. Take donations to any Fort Smith Public Library location and help out a pet in need. The Sebastian County Humane Society is the largest Humane Society in Arkansas and receives no state or federal funding. It is dedicated to the humane treatment of animals in Sebastian County and the surrounding areas. The Humane Society is funded by contributions from area individuals and businesses, special fundraising events and the annual dues paid by its members. Free. Fort Smith Public Library (all locations), 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org April 1-30 Mark Franz Photography Exhibit Interested in photography from a very young age, Mark Franz’s work has evolved from a hobby to a serious passion. The photographer’s day job takes him on travels throughout the region weekly, and his camera always comes along for the ride. He loves working in black and white and is also drawn to anything with a lot of color. There is not a subject that he does not like, especially if it is old and rusty. Free. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. April 1-30 Michael Leonard Photography Exhibit Dewey’s Café will exhibit works by photographer Michael Leonard. Landscapes and wildlife are featured in many of his images. Photography has deepened his fascination with the beauty and diversity of the great outdoors. Leonard says that exploring new places has been an exciting part of his life since childhood. Traveling to new photo locations appeals to the spirit of adventure and discovery in him, and he hopes to share that feeling with people who see his work.

Dewey’s Cafe at the Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. April 1-30 Muskogee Azalea Festival Muskogee’s Honor Heights Park boasts 40 acres of manicured gardens with more than 30,000 azaleas in 625 varieties. See blooming azaleas, tulips, dogwoods and wisteria. Drive along paved roadways that wind around the blooming flowers, walkways perfect for runners or birders, five lakes, a variety of picturesque ponds, a butterfly sanctuary and a tree arboretum.

Honor Heights Park, North 40th Street West, Muskogee, Okla. 866-381-6543

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UAFS lectures address medieval choir books and Beethoven’s most puzzling composition Lively Letters: Storytelling in Medieval Choir Books A curator with the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City will speak at the University of Arkansas – Fort Smith. Dr. Barbara Drake Boehm, Paul and Jill Ruddock Senior Curator for The Met Cloisters, will give a lecture titled “Lively Letters: Storytelling in Medieval Choir Books,” exploring the vibrant and animated approach to decorated letters in books made during the Middle Ages.

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An expert in art created during the Middle Ages, Boehm has published extensively on the topic and most recently served as co-curator of “Every People Under Heaven,” a landmark exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum that explored the role the city of Jerusalem played in shaping art in the period of 1000-1400. She is the author of “Choirs of Angels: Illumination in Italian Choir Books” and has helped to acquire a number of illuminations for the museum’s collection. Boehm holds a doctorate and master’s degree from New York University and a bachelor’s degree from Wellesley College. Dr. Mary B. Shepard, assistant professor of art history at UAFS, is a former colleague of Boehm’s and said the lecture will make medieval manuscripts “come alive.”

The lecture is sponsored by the Harvey Stahl Memorial Lecture Series of the International Center of Medieval Art. Free. 5 p.m. lecture, followed by 6 p.m. reception. Windgate Art & Design Building Theater, 535 North Waldron Road, Fort Smith, Ark. uafs.edu

Solving Beethoven’s Rubik’s Cube: Gross Fuge, Opus 133 A Beethoven work, the meaning of which has been a subject of fierce debate for nearly two centuries, will be dissected and explained by Dr. Stephen Husarik, UAFS professor of humanities and music, in a free lecture.

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Husarik will discuss the conditions under which Beethoven composed the famous work, the possible source of its main tune, the mechanics of its construction and why it has puzzled audiences and critics over the centuries. Husarik will perform on piano alongside violinist Lori Fay an arrangement of Willibald Gluck’s “Dance of the Blessed Spirits” as a likely source of the main tune of “Gross Fuge.”

Husarik and members of the Archduke String Quartet will also perform the complete work of “Gross Fuge.”

Husarik has a lifelong interest in Beethoven, and has published his research in The Musical Times, Speculum Musicae, and the International Journal of Humanities. His research efforts were recently recognized in an article by the Winthrop Rockefeller Foundation. Free. 7:30 p.m. UAFS Breedlove Auditorium, 5120 Grand Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-7555 uafs.edu 58

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April 1-30 Miller Library Artist of the Month – Priscilla Myers The Miller Branch Library will feature original paintings

by Priscilla Myers. Originally from Arizona, the artist uses acrylic and oil paints to create what speaks to her, including portraits, abstracts and landscapes. Recently, she has also begun experimenting with pet portraits. Free. Miller Branch Library, 8701 South 28th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-646-3945 fortsmithlibrary.org April 1-30 Whimsical and Abstract by Penny Joyner Artist Penny Joyner will display paintings in oil and acrylics at the Dallas Branch Library. This showing will feature the more farcical and abstract side of her art.

Free. Dallas Branch Library, 8100 Dallas Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-484-5650 April 3-24 Affordable Dance Lessons The Diamond Dance Club teaches weekly dance lessons on the third Friday of each month. Six volunteer instructors teach lessons in Latin, ballroom, country, swing and polka styles in a wholesome smoke-free atmosphere. All ages. 6:30 p.m. $5. 6:30-9 p.m. Eagles Ballroom, 3371 South 66th Street, Eagle Lane, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-674-2578 April 3-30 Kitties and Kanines Shot Clinic Kitties and Kanines Shot Clinic will be open every Monday and Thursday. No appointment is needed.

Vaccines available are feline distemper, leukemia, rabies, canine kennel cough (Bordetella), parvo, distemper and rabies. $10 per vaccine; cash only. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Kitties and Kanines Veterinary Clinic, 4900 Rogers Avenue, Suite 100A, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-434-4740 kittiesandkanines.com April 3-May 8 Writing with Anita Paddock Serious writers who have not yet attained their dream of publishing their work can take a class taught by author and writing teacher Anita Paddock. Paddock, author of true crime novels “Blind Rage” will focus on the fundamentals of theme, setting, point of view, character description and development, plot, climax and resolution as she helps participants channel their creativity toward a finished product. Participants are welcome to take a sack lunch. Attendees are asked to bring a copy of their favorite novel to the first class.

Call for reservations. Space is limited. $50 fee for the six-week class. Noon-2 p.m. Miller Branch Library, 8701 South 28th Street, Fort Smith. 479-646-3945 April 3-May 15 Diabetes Class Take charge of your health. Health coach Marilyn Sneed will teach a seven-week class about how to manage diabetes and live a productive life. Free. 10 a.m.-noon Mondays. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 April 4 Diabetes Academy Certified diabetes instructor Lisa Roling of Novo Nordisk presents Diabetes Academy, a free class about managing the disease. Free. 10 a.m.-noon. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS April 5 Adult Book Club Register at the front desk to check out the book of the month and join a discussion about it with other readers. Free. 10 a.m. Mulberry Public Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226 April 6 Alzheimer’s Class Shyfa Hooks of the Alzheimer’s Association provides information that to increase knowledge about Alzheimer’s and teach how to support those facing the disease. Free. 1 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045

Decision to Leave, Magnolia Plantation on the Can River, Louisiana, 2013.

Jeanine Michna-Bates

Through Darkness to Light Photographs Along the Underground Railroad This exhibition features beautifully dramatic color photographs, ephemera and narratives that together tell the story of the Underground Railroad.

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From cotton plantations just south of Natchitoches, La., all the way north to Canada, this series of photographs gives imagery to what the long road to freedom may have looked like. For many years, photographer Jeanine Michna-Bales retraced this route, which would have taken escaping slaves three months or more. She made photographs at night, from dusk to dawn, when the fugitives were forced to travel to avoid bounty-hunters.

These people escaping enslavement left in darkness – oftentimes carrying little more than the knowledge that moss grows on the north side of trees. An estimated 100,000 slaves in the decades prior to the Civil War chose to embark on this uncertain journey in search of freedom, with no maps and no certain knowledge of their destination. The path Michna-Bales documented encompasses roughly 2,000 miles and is based on actual sites, cities and places that freedom-seekers passed through during their journey. They traveled roughly 20 miles a night. Occasionally, they were guided from one secret, safe place to the next by an everchanging, clandestine group known as the Underground Railroad.

Opening reception is April 6, 5-7 p.m., free for members, $5 for nonmembers. Daily admission is free. Fort Smith Regional Art Museum, 1601 Rogers Ave., Fort Smith, Ark. 479-784-2787 fsram.org

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April 6 Woodcrafters Club of West Arkansas This club goal helps members develop new skills, invites speakers and demonstrators and makes urns for veterans and toys for children. Woodworkers of all ages and skill levels are welcome. Learn new skills, teach new skills and show off personal projects. Membership is $25 a year. 7-9 p.m. Betty Wilkinson Senior Center, 125 West Center Street, Greenwood, Ark. 813-380-0921 April 6-Aug. 28 Northwest Arkansas Naturals Baseball The AA-Affiliate of the Kansas City Royals open their season. Great opportunity for some family fun. Tickets are $8-$14. Arvest Ballpark, 3000 South 56th Street, Springdale, Ark. 479-927-4900 nwanaturals.com April 7 First Friday Friends: Poetry Celebration!

Expand your circle of friends at this monthly program featuring activities and social time for adults. Celebrate National Poetry month with writer and poet Richard Cress. Cress is the author of “Ozark Urchins” and is a talented and entertaining poet. After listening to some of Cress’ delightful prose, attendees will have the opportunity to read one of their own poems, or share a verse from a favorite poet. Coffee and light refreshments will be available. Free. 10:30 a.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org Apr. 7 Yarn and Needles Club Knit and crochet in a club that meets the first Friday of each month. Take a project or learn from others.

Free. 1 p.m. Mountainburg Public Library, 1300 U.S. 71 North, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-1600

Look for the Grey Barn Out Back. Station with a Tunnel Leading to Another Conductor’s House, 2013.

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April 6 Van Buren Living Local: Thursday Night Shopping and Entertainment on Main Street Evening shopping, entertainment, music, food and fun. Make plans to be on Main Street on Thursday evenings. Live local, shop, walk, rediscover and experience Main Street. The Van Buren Visitors Center Trolley will be running. This evening features a Glowin-the-Dark Easter Egg Hunt. Free. 5-8 p.m. 400-800 blocks of Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-922-6862

April 2017

Apr. 7, 21 Redwork Redwork is a form of embroidery that uses floss to trace simple line drawings. To learn or participate, take embroidery needle, embroidery loop, floss, envelopes and a shoe box. 12:30-2:30 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS April 8 Hard Core Riverfront 5K Enter an Open 5K race or a Beer 5K. If you choose to the beer race run, you will have to drink the Core Brewing Co. craft beers during the course of 3.1 miles. This date and location were picked to promote the opening day of a food truck park that will start downtown on Saturdays from noon-2 p.m. and to promote summer’s Ales for Trail Beer Run. Proceeds support the Fort Smith Trail System and the Jacqueline Core Foundation. Register online for this Jaymax Timing chip-timed race. Farmers Market, 200 Garrison Avenue Municipal Parking Lot, Fort Smith, Ark. registration.mylaps.com/core-riverfront-run April 8 Mountain Gate Poker Run Talihina’s 10th annual Mountain Gate Poker Run offers $1,000 in cash prizes. There are also silent auctions, music, vendors and entertainment for everyone. $30 per hand includes an evening meal. Sign in at Pam’s Hateful Hussy Diner, downtown Talihina at 8 a.m. First bike out at 9 a.m. and last bike out at noon; back to last stop by 5 p.m. Rain date is April 15. 8 a.m. Talihina Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center, 201 First Street, Talihina, Okla. 918-567-3434 talihinacc.com April 8 Yin Yoga for Hips & Hamstrings Join Danny Vekas for an opportunity to awaken fatigued fascia, tired tendons and ligaments. Call to register. $25. 10-11:30 a.m. Yogaterrium, 2712 Grand Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-459-2187 yogaterrium.com April 8 Gong Immersion Join Danny Vekas as he utilizes a gong, to elicit the sonic vibrations contained within it for a sustained sound massage. $20. Noon-1 p.m. Yogaterrium, 2712 Grand Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-459-2187 yogaterrium.com April 8 Three Waterfall Hike TrailBlazers Hiking Club will hike to three waterfalls Glory Hole, Magnolia Falls and Woods Boys Falls.

Total hiking distance is 4+ miles rated moderate. Glory Hole is a very unique waterfall flowing through a hole in a bluff overhang. Meet at Cloverleaf Plaza parking lot in Van Buren at 7:50 a.m. for an 8 a.m. departure.

Take lunch and water. Ozark National Forest, Ark. 21, Near Fallsville, Ark. 479-646-9562 thcfs.com April 8 Home Buyers Workshop Class Own your home. Learn the information you need to begin the process of home ownership. The CSCDC holds monthly Homebuyers Workshop Classes.

Classes are free. Call to enroll in the next class. Free.

8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Crawford Sebastian Community Development Council, 1617 South Zero Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-785-2303 cscdc/info April 8 Guided Hike A member of the education staff will lead a hike every Saturday. Dress for the weather and don’t forget a camera! Every Saturday. Free. 10 a.m. River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-3993 rivervalleynaturecenter.com April 2017

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS April 8 Wine & Roses Gala Enjoy a gourmet dinner by 21 West End, specialty wines by In Good Spirits, entertainment by Chris and Lolly Swicegood and Ultrasuede. Browse art by Candice Barry, Sydney Clayton, Kimberly Coates-Stewart, Gay Faulkenberry, John Lasater, Amber E. Lea, Jimmy Leach, Lynn-Margaret Pace, Vicki Rumsey, Jason Sacran, Lynn Snider and Bob Snider. Rolex Watch raffle provided by Newton’s Jewelers. Proceeds from this event benefit thousands of cancer patients served by the Donald W. Reynolds Cancer Support House. Serving cancer fighters and survivors and their families with compassionate care for 39 years. $125. 6:30 p.m. Donald W. Reynolds Cancer Support House, 3324 South M Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-424-1812 ReynoldsCancerSupportHouse.org April 10 Bingo Night The Montessori School of Fort Smith MPATT invites everyone to a night of family fun and bingo. Awesome bingo prizes, door prizes and a silent auction. Bingo cards $5 each or five for $20. 6-8 p.m. Larry’s Pizza, 6400 U.S. 71 South, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-646-7225 Marcus Woodward as Capt. Charles Thomas.

A Candlelight Stroll Through History at the Fort Smith National Historic Site APRIL

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As Fort Smith prepares for its bicentennial celebration, you are invited to stroll through the history of the military encampment that gave birth to the city. The Friends of the Fort will present “A Candlelight Stroll Through History” at the Fort Smith National Historic Site.

Guests will meet historic characters who knew Fort Smith when it was only a beautiful landing on a lonely river, and those who saw it during war and times of growth. Re-enactors will present the stories of a Rifle Regiment soldier who was one of the first men to call this area Fort Smith, as well as the Army captain in charge of constructing the actual fort.

Hear stories of a young girl who knew the fort for its place in society, and has stories to tell of elegant events and heroic officers. Tales of both Union and Confederate soldiers resound across the parade ground, and a long-ago Indian Agent explains why this piece of land is important in the history of Native Americans.

Take the final steps in time to the Federal Court when Judge Isaac C. Parker and William H.H. Clayton were charged to bring order to the Indian Territory.

Guests will also be treated to period music provided by John Spain and Marion Laird, an exhibit of 1800 quilting skills, and the opportunity to speak to historic characters visiting the Historic Site for this special evening. Take a one-hour tour of the Fort Smith National Historic Site during our Candlelight Tour through the History of Fort Smith. $5 adults; $3 for 12-16 years; under 11 are free.

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April 10 The Embroiders’ Guild of Fort Smith All embroiders experience levels are welcomed. Take your own basic supplies. Refreshments served. Free.

10 a.m.-2 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-646-2759 April 10 Adult Coloring Coloring is not just for kids. Relax and color stress away. Use personal supplies or markers and pictures provided by the library. Free. 11 a.m.-1 p.m.Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 April 10 Friends of the Mountainburg Library Friends of the Library volunteer, publicize, raise funds and help the library be the best it can be. New members welcomed. Free. 3 p.m. Mountainburg Public Library, 1300 U.S. 71 North, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-1600 April 10 Passover Seder The Passover Seder will be held at the United Hebrew Congregation 126 North 47th Street. Reservations will be accepted in the order received, and must be received no later than April 3. The cost for the Seder will be $30 for members and $35 for non-members. 6-9 p.m. United Hebrew Congregation, 126 North 47th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 452-1468 April 10 Book Talk Discuss the book “Nightwoods” by Charles Frazier.

Free. 7 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045

Steve Raney as Indian Agent Cooley.

April 10-14 National Library Week Celebrate National Library Week and enter a prize drawing that will be given away Friday. Friday is also Patron Appreciation Day with cake and coffee while supplies last. Free. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS April 11 Book Talk: The Woman Upstairs by Claire Messud A book discussion for adults. Free. 6 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 April 11, 13 Boater Education Course The Arkansas Boating Education Course teaches fundamentals of safe and responsible boating, and is free and open to all ages. Anyone born after 1985 must complete a Boating Education Course and carry a valid Boating Education Card to operate a motorboat powered by an engine of 10 horsepower or more (including personal watercraft) in Arkansas. Take the class, pass the test and receive your Boater Safety Card.

Class will be held in two evening sessions, April 11 and 13. Attendance both nights is required to pass the course.Register online at register-ed.com Free. 6-9 p.m. River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-3993 April 13 Adult Craft Party Register by April 6 to design a terrarium refrigerator magnet. 2 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 April 13 Van Buren Living Local: Thursday Night Shopping and Entertainment on Main Street Make plans to be on Main Street on Thursday evening for shopping, entertainment, music, food and fun. The Van Buren Visitors Center Trolley will be running. April 13 features a Special Needs Easter Egg Hunt. 5-8 p.m.

Historic Main Street, 400-800 blocks of Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-922-6862 oldtownvanburen.com April 14 Redwork Redwork is a simple and fun form of embroidery that traditionally uses red thread on light-colored fabric.

Take a large swatch of muslin, red embroidery floss, an embroidery needle and hoop. Embroiders of all skill levels are welcome, including beginners. Free. 1-3 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 April 14 BINGO for Books Play bingo, meet new friends and win books. All players go home with at least one book. 10 a.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 April 14 Celebrate the Risen King Heritage United Methodist Church wil present a dramatic program written by worship arts minister Chuck King on Good Friday. Inspired by the hymn “Were You There,” actors play Pontius Pilate, the Roman Centurion, Mary, Simon Peter and Mary Magdalene. The characters will reflect on their role in the events leading up to the crucifixion of Jesus. After a message from Pastor Wes Hilliard, communion will be served in the style of a Jewish Passover Seder, as it was at the traditional “Last Supper” of Jesus and His Disciples. Everyone is welcome to attend. The service will begin at 7 p.m. and will last for approximately one hour. Heritage United Methodist Church, 1604 Pointer Trail, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6424 heritage.church

April 14-16 2017 Ozark Mountain UFO Conference The 30th Annual Ozark Mountain UFO Conference is the oldest in the nation. Nine speakers will make presentations this three-day weekend. Vendors area is free to the public. Best Western Inn of the Ozarks Convention Center, 207 West Van Buren, Eureka Springs, Ark. 479-738-2348 ozarkufoconference.com April 14-May 15 April Designer Showhouse Penthouse Tour Tour a beautiful private penthouse on the top floor of the historic Friedman-Wegman Building in downtown Fort Smith. Interior designers have each decorated a particular space of this freshly renovated penthouse.

The tour benefits STEPS Family Resource Center.

Enter by parking on the top level of the municipal parking garage in the 800 block of Rogers Avenue. Guides will direct tour-goers from the parking deck into the building. An elevator is available from other floors of the parking deck. The tour cannot be entered from Garrison Avenue. $12; group rates available. 11 a.m.6 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday, 1-5 p.m. Sundays. 708 Garrison Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-782-7837 thestepsinc.org April 15 Dulcimer Club Every third Saturday, dulcimer players gather to learn more and play together. Noon-2 p.m. Mountainburg Public Library, 1300 U.S. 71 North, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-1600 April 15 Botanical Garden of the Ozarks Spring Fling Little Sprouts season kicks of with a Spring Fling, a family friendly event with activities for children and a live musical performance. Two Little Sprouts sessions: 9:30-10:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.-12:30 pm. $7 for adults. $4 for children, kids under 5 are free. Free for BGO members. Botanical Garden of the Ozarks, 4703 North Crossover Road, Fayetteville, Ark. 479-750-2620 bgozarks.org April 15 Drive 4 UR Community and Save Rescue Animals Take a test drive in a Ford vehicle at Ahimsa Rescue Foundation in Muldrow and Ford will donate $20 to the animal rescue foundation. Ahimsa Rescue Foundation’s mission is to place needy animals in responsible homes, provide humane education and to promote and facilitate spaying and neutering. Drive 4 UR Community demonstrates how Ford vehicles – and the Ford company – go further. With more than $35 million raised, Drive 4 UR campaigns have proven to be a vital part of Ford’s commitment to always go further.

While at Ahimsa, meet some of the wonderful rescue dogs and cats of all ages and breeds and consider adopting a new member into your family. Adoption applications and information will be available. Hot dogs and beverages will be served.

Free. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Ahimsa Rescue Foundation, 801 Ironwood Street, Muldrow, Okla. 918-427-7404 ahimsarescuefoundation.org April 2017

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS April 16 Heritage United Methodist Church Easter Services The Arrows International Dance Company will join the Heritage Worship Arts Department for all three morning services on Easter Sunday. Based in Oklahoma City, the company is directed by Jeff and Natalie Lewis. The Lewises have performed internationally for stage and television and have toured with artists such as Carman, Crystal Lewis, Avalon, Israel Houghton and Zoe Girl. They have been guest artists and choreographers for The International Christian Embassy Jerusalem, The International Christian Dance Fellowship and Project Dance. The Lewises are ministers of the gospel with a heart for the nations. Spectacular banners created for worship by Pete and Kay Williams of Acts of Praise Ministries will be displayed. Both traditional and contemporary music styles will be incorporated in the services, and will be under the direction of Chuck King and Rick Endel. Pastor Wes Hilliard will preach for all three services. 8, 9:30 and 11 a.m. Heritage United Methodist Church, 1604 Pointer Trail, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6424 heritage.church April 17-21 Earth Day Celebrate Earth Day all week by entering a drawing to win a small tree. The drawing will take place at noon April 22. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 April 18 Tax Day Po’ Boys and Payday Bars After paying income taxes on this tax day deadline, everyone is welcome to a free po’ boy sandwich and Payday candy bar, while supplies last. Noon. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 April 18 Wild Edible Plants Learn which plants are edible and where to find them.

Charles Griffith has been teaching about wild edibles for nearly 40 years. Free. 6-8 p.m. River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-3993 rivervalleynaturecenter.com April 18 United Way of Fort Smith Area Day of Caring On the annual Day of Caring, volunteer teams from local companies, families and individuals work together to complete projects and conduct special programs for United Way’s community partners. Teams have the manpower to tackle and complete work for community United Way non-profit partners which, much of the time, lack the necessary resources to accomplish need projects.

Volunteer services on the Day of Caring can range from visiting with the elderly in local nursing homes to painting a room to outdoor chores such as landscaping or washing windows. Local non-profit United Way partners have prepared a wish list that can be seen online now. Volunteers of every ability can find a way to make a different.The day starts with a breakfast and lunch will also be provided. Wear work clothes and consider taking along gloves or hats. 8 a.m. Harry E. Kelley Riverfront Park, 121 Riverfront Drive, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-782-1311 unitedwayfortsmith.org 64

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS April 18 Sew Easy Basic Hand Sewing Class Certified sewing educator Patti Deffenbaugh teaches the technique of simple sewing by hand. Take a size 7 or 9 needle, a spool of black thread, small scissors and a needle threader (optional). 10 a.m.-noon Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 April 18 Extension Office: Gardening Spring is for gardening. Experts from the Crawford County Extension Office will teach about starting and maintaining a food garden at home. 1 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045

Matthew Cull, adventure cyclist, photographer

The Incredible Adventures of Matthew Cull World adventure cyclist, writer and photographer Matthew Cull has logged hundreds of thousands of miles across 72 countries and six continents while braving the elements, but savoring the journey, the land and its people as one can only do from behind the handlebars.

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Cull is the author and photographer of a sixbook series “An International Celebration of Culture,” “Solo Bicycle Journeys Across Six

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Continents, The Lure of the Next Bend” and “Hard Road to Nirvana, A Solo Bicycle Journey Through Tibet and Along the Himalaya.”

Hear Cull present photos and stories of some of his adventures and enjoy craft beer and food.

Limited to 150 seats; reservations are required by phone. Free. Presented by KMW Properties and sponsored by Champion Cycling and Dr. Bill Thornton. 6:30 p.m. Former Shipley Baking Building, 63 South 6th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-782-8808 matthewjcull.com

April 18-May 9 Business Development Series The Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center presents a four-week Business Development Series on Tuesday evenings. Anyone interested in starting a business or expanding a current business may benefit. Participants will identify key aspects of building or expanding a business to create a working plan. Instruction and class activities provide participants with tools to address the four challenges to every business: an attractive business concept, strong organizational structure, lasting customer relationships and profitable business operations. Registration is required no later than April 16.

Tuition is $99. Class meets from 5:30-7:30 p.m. on Tuesdays. BrickCity Emporium, 3215 South 74th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-356-2067 asbtdc.org/training/russellville-events

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FSPL Documentary Night: The Eagle Huntress (G) Instead of its usual noon screening of entertaining and informative documentaries, the library hosts a special evening showing of the 2016 documentary film “The Eagle Huntress.”

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The film is the story of Aisholpan, a 13-year-old Kazakh girl from Mongolia, as she attempts to become the first female eagle hunter to compete in the national eagle festival at Ulgii, Mongolia. She belongs to a family of nomads that spend their summers in a yurt in the Altai Mountains and winters in a house in town. The men in her family have been eagle hunters for seven generations and she wants to follow in their footsteps. With her father’s help, she learns how to train golden eagles, and then captures and trains her own eaglet.

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Breathtaking cinematography shows Aisholpan traveling with her father to the Altai Mountains in winter to train her eagle to hunt foxes, braving snowy conditions and extreme cold. The filmmakers have made Aisholpan and her family profit participants in the documentary and have established a fund to help pay for Aisholpan’s higher education.

Free. 5-7 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org

April 19 Diabetic Support Group A diabetes support group is a place to discuss issues that others with the same condition may be experiencing. It can help to know you are not alone. 2 p.m.

Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 April 19 Debunking Cancer-Related Nutrition Myths Presented by Ryan Ellison, RD, LD of the Sparks Nutrition Counseling Center. Free. 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Cancer Support House, 3324 South M Street, Fort Smith. 479-782-6302 ReynoldsCancerSupportHouse.org April 19 Fort Smith Public Library Writing Club Writers of all ages and backgrounds are invited to attend the monthly meeting of the Fort Smith Public Library Writing Club. Discuss writing goals and ambitions and experience other members’ works.

Take a laptop or a paper along with your creativity and love for writing. Free. 4-5 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229

April 20 iCOOK Cooking Class The Sparks Nutrition Counseling Center holds an interactive cooking class. Learn to make quality, restaurant-style meals with a healthy twist. A certified chef and a registered dietitian will answer questions. $40 tickets available by phone. 6-7:30 p.m. Sparks Regional Medical Center, 7th Floor Physician Lounge, 1001 Towson Ave., Fort Smith, Ark. 479-441-4183 April 20 Open Mic Night at Dewey’s Café April is National Poetry month. Musicians and poets, are invited to perform. Music or poetry does not have to be original. Free. 7 p.m. Dewey’s Cafe at the Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org April 20 Van Buren Living Local: Thursday Night Shopping and Entertainment on Main Street Live local, shop, walk, re-discover and experience Main Street in Van Buren. Street entertainment, artists and activities for kids are scheduled every Thursday night in April. 5-8 p.m. 400-800 blocks of Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-922-6862 oldtownvanburen.com April 2017

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U.S. Congressman Trey Gowdy Will Speak in Fort Smith as Winthrop Paul Rockefeller Distinguished Lecturer APRIL

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The U.S. Marshals Museum hosts U.S. Rep. Trey Gowdy of South Carolina in its second Winthrop Paul Rockefeller Distinguished Lecture Series.

The three-part series, made possible by a grant from Lisenne Rockefeller in 2014, welcomes leaders from the executive, judicial and legislative branches of the federal government to Fort Smith to speak about the U.S. Marshals Service’s history with each branch. The first lecture in 2015 featured the late Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court Antonin Scalia.

Gowdy is a nationally renowned speaker on subjects relating to the Constitution and the rule of law. He will be introduced by U.S. Rep. Steve Womack of Arkansas’ 3rd Congressional District.

Gowdy was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2010. Now in his fourth term, he serves on the House Committees on Intelligence; Ethics; Oversight and Government Reform and Judiciary, where he also serves as chairman of the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security and Investigations. He is the former chairman of the Select Committee on the Event Surrounding the 2012 Terrorist Attack in Benghazi, Libya.

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The public lecture will be held at 1 p.m. While free, reservations are required for admission – WPRDLS2017.eventbrite.com. School groups may contact the marshals museum for group reservations. Fort Smith Convention Center, Exhibit Hall B, Rogers Avenue and South 9th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-709-3766

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Kimono Hanabi 6, 1992, 40 x 34” etching and collage

Gloria Garfinkel: Vibrancy of Form Deeply influenced by Japanese objects, Garfinkel’s work reflects “Kando,” which stresses the simplicity, elimination of clutter and a sense of essentialness. The exhibit has approximately 50 works of various mediums, including etchings on paper, painted aluminum, and oil on canvas. Opening reception, 7:30 p.m. April 20, free for members and $5 for non-members. Daily museum admission is free. Fort Smith Regional Art Museum, 1601 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-784-2787 fsram.org

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April 20 Hannah House 20-Year Celebration “Where Life Meets Love” Banquet Hanna House is celebrating 20 years of service at its annual banquet. Daren Bobb, KFSM 5News anchor, will be the emcee. The program is a unique rendition of 20 years of ministry. Former board members, volunteers, donors, staff and residents are invited to the celebration. Hannah House is a residential facility for young women who are pregnant or have other life issues. 6-9 p.m. Fort Smith Convention Center, Rogers Avenue and South 9th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-782-5683 hannahhouseark.org April 22 Paint Sculpting Workshop A “Sculpting Mud” workshop with artist Cathy Mason includes sampling of a new medium, 3-D Mud. All supplies will be furnished. This new painting mud was created by Mason for the artist, hobbyist and crafter and can used as paint or for creating sculptures. Learn a new process. No background in art is required. Register by phone. $50. Noon. Center For Art & Education, 104 North 13th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-474-7767 art-ed.org April 2017

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS April 22 Nature Center Guided Hike A member of the education staff will lead a hike. Dress for the weather and take a camera. Free. 10 a.m. River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith. 479-452-3993 rivervalleynaturecenter.com April 21 Diamond Dance This monthly social dance includes ballroom, Latin, country, disco, swing and line-dancing in a relaxing, smoke-free social environment. Membership is not required. Dress attire, dressy casual. Adult beverages are available. $5. 8-10 p.m. Eagles Ballroom, 3371 South 66th Street, Eagle Lane, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-674-2578 April 22 WAMN Training Class: Tree ID and Stream Team Western Arkansas Master Naturalists class for Naturalists in Training. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479259-1799 wordpress.arkansasmasternaturalists.org April 22 Sprint for Compassion 5K & 10K This event benefits Project Compassion. Start and finish at Euper Lane Elementary. 7 a.m. check-in. Register by April 13 to receive a T-shirt. All racers are timed.

Register online. $10-$30. 8 a.m. Euper Lane Elementary, 6601 Euper Lane, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-782-2273 projectcompassioninc.com

Regas Woods competed in the 100m, 200m and long jump at the 2016 Rio Paralympics.

Woods is a supporter of the Never Say Never Foundation, defying disability to excel athletically.

Battle with the Blades: Paralympic athletes join the McDonald Relays to demonstrate abilities U.S. Paralympic athletes will compete with high school track athletes from Arkansas at the McDonald Relays Track Meet, hosted by Fort Smith Public Schools at Southside High School. The exhibition by paralympic athletes is to raise awareness of regaining a full life after limb loss. The Never Say Never Foundation, organizer of this exhibition it calls “Battle with the Blades,” has a mission to show that children and adults with limb loss can have unlimited possibilities if they have the chance to be fitted with proper prosthetic limbs.

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Francois Van Der Watt, a prosthesis designer and technician practicing in Fort Smith, is the local connection to the national Never Say Never Foundation and to the U.S. Paralympic Track Team. Van Der Watt helped to develop “running blades” for Oscar Pistorius, the first athlete with limb loss to run in an Olympic event. Van Der Watt continues to serve the U.S. Paralympic team’s athletes on the official team staff.

Visiting Paralympic athletes may compete in the 100m, 200m, 4 x100m, 4 x 400m and long jump events in the same heats with high school athletes.

Running events for all athletes begin at 4 p.m. Jim Rowland Stadium, Southside High School, 4100 Gary Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 70

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April 23 Panhellenic Tea All high school senior girls who are considering joining a sorority at their future college of choice are invited. Learn what sorority rush is about and what to expect. Receive forms to fill out and return so alumnae chapters are able to write letters of recommendation.

Free. 2:30-4 p.m. Riverfront Pavilion, 100 North B Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-462-2360 April 25 Authors in the Afternoon with Juneus Kendall Paris, Ark., native Juneus F. Kendall, M.D., will sign copies of his books. The author grew up in rural West Virginia. After World War II and in the early part of the Korean Conflict, he served in the Army ski troops. He was a family doctor for more than 50 years, retiring in early 2010. As an avid runner, Kendall has completed more than 50 marathons, 10 50-milers and still runs. Kendall has completed three novels and a twovolume book of short stories, “The Ferryman,” a novel whose protagonist is a German Mennonite born in Siberia during the last days of Czar Nicholas II; “Wattsville,” the story of a family physician in a coal mining village in West Virginia, and “Hawks Nest,” a novel about an industrial disaster set in the Great Depression in West Virginia. His short stories recall growing up during the Depression and venturing out of a mostly rural setting in 1940s and ‘50s. Copies of his books will be available for purchase and signing at this open-house style event. Free. 4-6 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS April 25 Nature’s Medicine Cabinet There are many contributors to modern medicine in the woods around us. Lake Fort Smith Park Interpreter Heather Hula gives a short talk about nature’s medicine cabinet. 6 p.m. Mulberry Public Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226 April 25 Spring Career Fair The Crawford County Adult Education Center is hosting its annual Spring Career Fair to provide free access to education and career options for students and the surrounding communities. CCAEC hosts local employers, community resources and schools during the fair to help individuals make the transition into training and/or employment. Resume and online job application assistance will be available. Refreshments will be provided. Free. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Crawford County Adult Education Center, 605 Alma Boulevard Circle, Van Buren, Ark. 479-471-0019 crawfordcountyadulteducationcenter.webs.com April 27 Welcome Neighbor Book Club The book “China Dolls” by Lisa See will be reviewed.

Any woman is welcome to attend. Free. 11:30 a.m.12:30 p.m. Dewey’s Cafe, Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Ave. 479-459-1603 WelcomeNeighborFtSmith.weebly.com.

April 27 On the Air The Fort Smith Museum of History will hold an opening reception of On the Air, a new permanent exhibit chronicling 50 years of the history of radio and television broadcasting in Fort Smith. It also honors longtime broadcaster Carl Riggins, father of the exhibit.

The inception and development of radio and television is shown through artifacts, equipment and information. The exhibit includes dozens of photographs of familiar broadcast announcers, many of whom may attend. Museum admission: $7 adults, $5 veterans and military, $2 children, under age 6 free. 6 p.m. Fort Smith Museum of History, 320 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-7841 fortsmithmuseum.org April 27 Van Buren Living Local: Spring Art Walk Entertainment, music, food and fun on Main Street will featuring a Spring Art Walk. Art will be shown on the street and in stores and galleries. The Van Buren Visitors Center Trolley will be running. 5-8 p.m. Historic Main Street, 400-800 blocks of Main Street , Van Buren, Ark. 479-922-6862 oldtownvanburen.com

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Clayton Conversations Fort Smith Masonic Temple: A Grand Birth and Rebirth

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Enjoy a unique view into Fort Smith history with a presentation on the restoration of one of Arkansas’ few Egyptian Revival structures: the Fort Smith Masonic Temple, soon to open as Temple Live, an entertainment venue, private club and event facility.

Speaking in the home of the 1884 Grand Master Mason of Arkansas, Wm. H. H. Clayton, Fort Smith native Lawrence Beaty will peel back the temple’s layers of time to reveal its 1929 opening as a center of Masonic activities in western Arkansas. Located at North 11 and B Streets, the 53,000-square-foot stone structure, flanked by Egyptian sphinxes, was designed by the architect of the Arkansas State Capitol and the Arlington Hotel, George Mann.

In addition to an overview of activities in the temple, which included an era when a public movie theater was operated there, Beaty will speak about the immense compilation of Fort Smith history beheld in hundreds of documents and other artifacts found inside. Beaty and his brother, Lance, president of Beaty Capital Group and FSM Redevelopment Partners, plan to care for and share the documents that reveal Fort Smith history.

Discussing the variety of artifacts and records found, Beaty says, “Our challenges include the fact that, in the early period, the Masonic Order was relatively secret, so people’s membership was not publicly shared. Masonry has become much more open today, Lawrence Beaty but we will want to show good stewardship in what we reveal of this history. Truly, though, almost anybody who’s anybody passed through these doors.”

Beaty, who has been helping with the restoration, is retiring after a 35-year career in the energy industry. The Southside High School graduate served in the U.S. Navy Nuclear Propulsion Program, managed power plant projects for General Electric around the world, and for the past 14 years has taught electronics and control systems at Idaho State University. He serves as a National Science Foundation Principal Investigator and as executive director and chair of the University’s Energy Systems Technology and Education Center. In 2014, Beaty received the Idaho State University’s Distinguished Service Award.

Reserve seats by phone. A $10 donation or a membership to the Fort Smith Heritage Foundation is requested to help with the ongoing preservation of the circa 1882 home of the U.S. Attorney of Judge Isaac C. Parker’s court. Clayton House, 514 North 6th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-3000 72

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April 27-May 25 Cooking Matters: Healthy, Affordable, Delicious Presented by UAMS Institute on Aging, this class helps families and individual plan, shop, and cook for meals on a budget. The class will include cooking demonstrations and meals at each session. Seating is limited. Register by phone. Free. 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Thursdays. Donald W. Reynolds Cancer Support House, 3324 South M Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-782-6302 ReynoldsCancerSupportHouse.org April 28-29 Annual Sequoyah County OHCE Quilt Show Approximately 60 hand-quilted or machine-quilted entries will be displayed. Quilting-related vendors and an OHCE craft and bake sale table will be available. Workshops are planned for both days. On Friday, a full chicken and dressing meal, including dessert and drink, will be served from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. for $7. A concession with snacks and drinks will be available on Saturday. $2. 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Sequoyah County Fair Building, 464101 East 1070 Road, Sallisaw, Okla.

918-315-1749 April 29 WAMN Training Class: Geology Classes for Naturalists in Training are held by the Western Arkansas Master Naturalists. This segment will be taught by a genealogist. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-259-1799 wordpress.arkansasmasternaturalists.org April 29 Lavaca Cruise Night Lavaca’s first-ever Cruise Night is open to all antique, muscle, restored or just beloved cars and trucks and motorcycles. Cruise the Main Street of Lavaca. Enjoy live music at Steffey’s Pizza’s parking lot and many other activities. Family and kid friendly. Free. 5-9 p.m.

627 West Main Street, Lavaca, Ark. 479-883-5395 Facebook/LavacaCruiseNight April 29 Hike the Ozark Highland Trail TrailBlazers Hiking Club will hike on the Ozark Highland Trail to the beautiful Marinoni Scenic Area. There will be views of the Mulberry River Valley, waterfalls, bluff lines, blooming wild azaleas and umbrella magnolias. This 5.5-mile hike is rated moderate due to the elevation gain of 750 feet. Take lunch and water.

Meet at Cloverleaf Plaza parking lot at 7:50 a.m. for an 8 a.m. departure. Ozark National Forest, CR 5051, Near Oark, Ark. 479-646-9562 thcfs.com April 29 Greenwood 30th Annual Open Car Show Hot Rods, rat rods, muscle cars, motorcycles and more. Take the whole family to this show on the square in Greenwood. Enjoy the day looking at vintage vehicles, racing vehicles and competition cars. This show has something for everyone, from granddads to grandchildren. Admission is free, or if you would like to enter your vehicle to see if you have the best of the best, early entry is $25 until April 21; after that date entry fee is $30 or you can enter the day of the show.

All proceeds from show benefit local charities. More information on the show web site and on Facebook.

8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. 1 Town Square, Greenwood, Ark. 479-739-6075 greenwoodarcarshow.com

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS April 29 Herbal Cleaners to Make at Home Make your home and laundry sparkle with homemade cleaners and get rid of hazardous chemical cleaners.

The River Valley Master Gardeners Herbal Adventures Group will host Herbal Cleaners to Make at Home. Use the same basic, power-house ingredients with a few easy-to-find additions and clean any anything. Save money creating your own household cleaners. Refreshments served. Registration required. $20. 9:30 a.m.-noon. Reynolds Cancer Support House, 3325 South M Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-646-8234 April 29 Botanical Garden of the Ozarks Plant Sale Both annual and perennial plant grown by BGO horticulturists will be available, with an emphasis on native, butterfly host and nectar plants. Vendors will also be selling annual and perennial plants, native plants, garden art, furniture, flowers, herbs and succulents. Take cash or checks to purchase merchandise from vendors. Free. 8-10:30 a.m. Botanical Garden of the Ozarks, 4703 North Crossover Road, Fayetteville, Ark. 479-750-2620 bgozarks.org April 29 5th Annual Life’s an Uphill Run & 5K A race to benefit the Boys & Girls Club of Van Buren will start at the club and track through the hills of city park. A one-mile family run/walk will also be held at the park lake. Awards for the top finishers in each age and gender category. Register in advance for a goody bag and a T-shirt. $20 online in advance; $25 for day of race. Check-in time is 7 a.m. for the 8 a.m. start.

Boys & Girls Club of Van Buren, 1403 City Park Road, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-9401 VBClub.org

April 29-30 Tales of the Crypt History comes to life as UAFS students of the Historical Interpretation Program portray people buried at Oak Cemetery. Citizens portrayed this year include Samuel Morton Rutherford, a War of 1812 veteran and Indian Agent; George Wolf, a Cherokee citizen hanged to death and Essie Mae Trent, owner of the Trent Fountainette and activist for civil rights. Different characters will come to life on each day so attend both days This is a walking tour, rain or shine. Parking is available at Ballman School, Creekmore Park and along 31st Street. Shuttle buses will be provided. Portrayals will begin on at 8:30 p.m. April 29 and 3 p.m.

April 30. to see them all! Free. Oak Cemetery, 1401 South Greenwood, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-784-1006 fortsmithparks.com April 2017

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Historic Abigail Sparks House, circa 1890, is now the home of Charlie and Jeri Moffat.

Steel Horse Rally roars into town MAY

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Expect to hear the sound of thundering motorcycle engines as the Steel Horse Rally takes over downtown Fort Smith for two days, all for the love of riding and to the benefit of local charities.

Thousands of visitors and local bikers will convene to parade on Garrison Avenue, shop at a gearhead’s dream of a vendor village and enjoy concerts. Proceeds of this year’s rally will support Heroes on the Water – River Valley Arkansas Chapter, The Buddy Smith Veterans Home, Earthbound Angels and the Fort Smith Museum of History.

A complete schedule of every event of the rally can be found on its website and Facebook pages. Highlights for spectators will be the Saturday “Heroes Who Serve” ride and ceremony, honoring military, veterans, first responders and law enforcement, starting at the Veterans Monument at the National Cemetery in Fort Smith. Following the ceremony, the “Heroes Salute” Ride will leave the National Cemetery in Fort Smith and end on Garrison Avenue where motorcycle riders will be allowed to park in the middle of the street.

On Saturday, a Birds of Prey exhibition takes place at 9 a.m. at the Garrison Commons Park, 900 block of Garrison Avenue, presented by the Arkansas Native Plant and Wildlife Center. Get a close look or take a picture with hawks, eagles, falcons and other large raptors.

Vote on a People’s Favorite in the open Bike Show, which will include new, custom and vintage motorcycles. Competing bikes will be displayed on the street in front of the Fort Smith Museum of History, 320 Rogers Avenue. Inside, the Motorcycle Memories exhibit can be seen.

At 4 p.m. Saturday, the largest rally ride down Garrison Avenue will take place. Stage at Fort Smith Park to ride up Riverfront Drive (Clayton Expressway). After the parade, the street belongs to the rally and bikes will park in the middle of (closed) Garrison Avenue for evening concerts by Bobaflex and other acts on a stage at 9th Street and Garrison Avenue.

Spectators and riders can enjoy the rally for free. Concerts, a bar area and other events may require admission or cover charge. The Steel Horse Rally invites attendees to make purchases from official vendors so proceeds can support their 2017 charities. Keep up with all events and current rally announcements at thesteelhorserally.com.

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April 30 Fort Smith Historical Society Home Tour and Social The beautiful Victorian home of Charlie and Jeri Moffat will host a social meet-and-greet and home tour for members of the Fort Smith Historical Society and the public. The society welcomes new members and has monthly public meetings with guest speakers on topics such as the preservation of family documents and photos. Local authors make presentations on newly released books concerning local history. The historical society connects local historical researchers with one another for possible collaborations and increased perspective. The Fort Smith Historical Society, in conjunction with the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith department of history, publishes the “Journal of the Fort Smith Historical Society” two times a year. Subscriptions and back issues are available to members.

RSVP to maggie1040@earthlink.net or by phone.

Free. 2-4 p.m. Moffat Home, 412 May Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-650-5405 fortsmithhistory.org May 2 Go Red For Women Educational Luncheon The American Heart Association’s Go Red For Women campaign is a national movement and yearlong educational program to end heart disease and stroke in women. It gives women the tools and information they need to lead a more heart-healthy life. GRFW advocates for more research and swifter action for women’s heart health. An educational luncheon will have offer free health screenings and helpful health information, a silent auction, a motivational guest speaker and other heart health-related activities. $65.

9 a.m.-1 p.m. Double Tree by Hilton Fort Smith City Center, 700 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-439-6800 FortSmithGoRed.heart.org May 5 Leadercast Van Buren Broadcast live from Atlanta to hundreds of locations around the world each year, Leadercast brings together some of the most recognized and respected global leaders to lecture, creating a leadership experience unlike any other. “Building Leaders Worth Following” is the topic. Keynote speakers include host Tripp Cosby; director, screenwriter and actor Tyler Perry; behavioral scientist Daniel Pink and best-selling leadership author Suzy Welch, among others. Locally, Leadercast is a networking opportunity. Discounts are available for groups. $69 advance, $79 at the door.

8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Van Buren Fine Arts Center, 2001 Pointer Trail, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-883-5122 leadercastvb.com

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS May 5-6 8th Annual Airing of the Quilts Show Presented by the Alpha Delta Chapter of ESA, this show is fast becoming a regional favorite, drawing visitors from 11 states. View beautiful examples of the quilter’s art in a striking setting. Silent auction, a raffle quilt and a featured quilt are highlights. Miss Sue’s Tea Room will serve luncheon, dessert and drinks from 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m. for $8. Quilt Show admission is $5.

9 a.m.-5 p.m. Sen. Ed Wilkinson Pavilion, 1050 Bell Park Road, Greenwood, Ark. 479-996-6357 Facebook.com/GreenwoodQuilts May 5-6 Old Jail Museum Complex Tour The 2017 opening of the Greenwood Old Jail Museum Complex features a new exhibit of the Battle of Devil’s Backbone and a display of vintage quilts. Friday activities include piece quilting with Ada Sanderson and the Mountain Strings Dulcimer Group performing from 1-2 p.m. Saturday activities will be the Blacksmiths of Arkansas, local Civil War re-enactors and Barbara Jacobson’s portrayal of Eudora Blaylock Cumbie, who was born in the Vineyard Cabin which has been relocated to the Old Jail Museum complex.

Free 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Old Jail Museum Complex, South side of town square, Greenwood, Ark. 479-996-6357 greenwoodmuseumonline.com May 6 Day at the Derby Enjoy a Kentucky Derby watch party with tournament style games, hat contests, silent auction, food and drinks. All proceeds go to assist Junior League of Fort Smith in their efforts in helping Children Aging Through Foster Care in the River Valley. $40 tickets online. 4-7:30 p.m. Michael’s Mansion, 2900 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-3930 jlfs.org May 6 9th Annual Nurses of Faith Breakfast All nurses and nursing students are invited to hear featured speaker MeLynnda Dunn, RN, from PRN Medical Services on “The Pathway with Alzheimer’s.”

Dunn covers the illness as it impacts all levels of nursing with tips for everyday care. This is opportunity to learn, network and visit with other nurses. Attendees may purchase their own breakfast. Registration 8 a.m.; program 8:30 a.m. Golden Corral Restaurant, 1801 South Waldron Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-650-6512 Facebook.com/NursesofFaith Reporting Events for Publication To reach the 80,000 readers of Entertainment Fort Smith’s Calendar of Events online and in print, report events online at efortsmith.com by the 10th of each month prior to the event date. Our online form asks for all the information the magazine requires. Priority is given to events that are free, low-cost, of general interest or for children and those that support nonprofit groups. Read the guidelines for publication; display advertising is available for events that do not meet editorial rules for free publication. Email questions or additional images to calendar@efortsmith.com or call 479-494-1888.

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2017 GRIT Award Nominees Restaurant Partner StoneHouse at Chaffee Crossing Anthony’s Italian Restaurant La Huerta Grill on Garrison

An April 27 awards ceremony will recognize the brightest stars of Fort Smith’s growing tourism industry.

The Fort Smith Convention & Visitors Bureau will host the event at Fort Smith Convention Center.

It’s an evening when businesses, organizations and individuals who have been nominated for this year’s “Giving Recognition In Tourism Awards”will gather to be celebrated for their accomplishments.

Lodging Partner Courtyard by Marriott Fort Smith Downtown Hampton Inn Fort Smith Holiday Inn Express Attraction Partner The Unexpected – Urban Contemporary Art Indian Territory Pistoliers’ – Robbing of the Trolley Ben Geren Bike Trails Business Partner of the Year Mercy Hospital First National Bank of Fort Smith Propak/64.6 Downtown Polly Crews Hospitality Person of the Year Lynn Wasson – Entertainment Fort Smith Magazine Beth Templeton – Belle Starr Antiques Rham Cunningham (Dawson Meadows) – TTDIFS.com

FORT SMITH CVB • 2 NORTH B STREET • 800-637-1477 • INFO @FORTSMITH.ORG

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DINING GUIDE

CALICO COUNTY Homestyle. Fried catfish and hushpuppies, their famous chicken fried steak, pot roast beef, steaming fresh vegetables, hearty breakfasts and signature homemade cinnamon rolls at every table prove that traditional American foods never go out of style.

2401 South 50th Street, Fort Smith

LA HUERTA Patio weather is here at Fort Smith’s Favorite Outdoor Dining place, La Huerta’s downtown location, and Favorite Mexican Restaurant. But at any location, the fajitas will arrive sizzling hot and the margaritas will be icy cold. Dine at 400 Garrison Avenue, 5511 Towson Avenue and 3501 Old Greenwood Road.

LULU’S BISTRO Fresh Swordfish steak in a Raspberry Beurre Blanc with Sugar Snap Peas and Cheesy Herb Polenta could be on the menu, or an endless variety of special choices at Lulu’s. The chef has a creation for Saturday and Sunday night features that could be seafood, steak, chicken or pork. 9417 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith.

RIVER CITY BISTRO

Chosen by our readers as Favorite Restaurant Overall and Favorite Catering and Favorite Gourmet Deli, Chef Jason Haid and co-owner Susan diner with a menu of fresh, exciting selections such as this Pork au Vin with mushrooms paired with the right wine.

Brunch is divine every weekend. 7320 Rogers Avenue in Stonewood Village.

WESTERN SIZZLIN

Steak, of course, cooked perfectly to order is the star of Western Sizzlin restaurants at 5200 Towson Avenue and 5720 Rogers Avenue in Fort Smith.

But there’s also the enormous food and salad bar, fresh bakery and desserts to satisfy every diner. Download the Western Sizzlin app for discounts!

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