Entertainment Fort Smith Magazine - May 2018

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EDITORS’ NOTES

Editorial Staff LINDA SEUBOLD Editor in Chief lindaseubold@efortsmith.com LYNN WASSON Managing Editor lynnwasson@efortsmith.com DONNA PAYNE Senior Editor donnapayne@efortsmith.com MARY JANE HENNIG Art Director Contributing Writers KARRIE KELLY BRITTANY RANSOM KRISTAN ROLAND LAWRENCE ELIZABETH KNOX

Contributing Photographers GLENN GILLEY KARRIE KELLY LAWRENCE ELIZABETH KNOX BRITTANY RANSOM KRISTAN ROLAND

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 © 2018 eFortSmith.com Media, Inc. efortsmith.com 4

Entertainment Fort Smith

May 2018

We don’t weigh in often but when we do, we really mean it: Let’s pass this school millage From our first issue in August 2000, this magazine editorially pledged our interest and support to Fort Smith Public Schools.

In the following 18 years, we have served as a Partner in Education to the school district and our contribution is to amplify the communication it has with the community to which it belongs.

This school district is a good steward of its facilities. The proof is in the average age of its buildings, 63 years. Only the most responsible management of funds and maintenance of our common property, our schools, could accomplish such a record.

It is also a good steward of our children but more than acting as a caretaker, Fort Smith Public Schools have acted as the supporters, teachers, encouragers and empowering forces for them all. That includes all of our staff here. In fact, I am the exception as a graduate of Fayetteville Public Schools. But my children were educated here.

On May 22, voters will choose whether to increase, by a small measure, the millage on city property taxes from which the public schools are supported.

We urge everyone to vote for this measure.

It is a test of responsibility. We must progress as a city and to do so, we must make a common investment. We join with other proponents of the millage from private citizens to leading businesses and industries to our economic development drivers such as the Fort Smith Chamber of Commerce and the Fort Chaffee Redevelopment Authority.

From watching the work of the volunteers of the Vision 2023 five-year planners, the board of education, the citizens committee that turned vision into a spreadsheet of wise, line-item budget actions, we also think we’re joining with the brightest and best of our neighbors. Let’s pass this millage and take responsibility for the city we want to be.

– 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.

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Sparks Clinic makes it simple for everyone in your family to see a primary care physician quickly. For your convenience, we have more than a dozen locations. And our services include pediatrics, family care, and adult medicine. Whether you’re looking for a new doctor or connecting with your current one, call 479-782-CARE (2273) and ask about same-day appointments.

PRIMARY CARE MADE EASY. SAME-DAY APPOINTMENTS. ONE NUMBER:

479-782-CARE. Adult Preventive Visits Pediatric Preventive Visits Medicare Wellness Visits Welcome to Medicare Wellness Visit

Alma • Greenwood • Fort Smith Spiro • Van Buren

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CONTENTS

May 2018

features

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8 On a mission Photo by Janice Sudbrick

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Taking kindness, faith and care to Guatemala Fort Smith native Lawrence Elizabeth Knox captures the joy and heartbreak of a mission trip to bring basic medical care and spiritual comfort to a third-world community.

Explainers and Campaigners: a look at the millage election The outcome of a May 22 vote to increase millage for Fort Smith Public Schools will reveal our character as a community. School administrators explain how the funding will be used and strong advocates speak in favor.

Summer’s here and the time is right for dancing in the streets Shall we dance? This time it’s for an official Guinness World Record.

To celebrate Fort Smith’s 200th birthday, one group invites everyone to boogie in the middle of Garrison Avenue to set a record for a street dance.

Retiring principal to be celebrated in music Few can remember any principal of Southside High School other than Wayne Haver, who is retiring after 48 years as an educator. A secret plan to honor him with an original composition in his honor can now be revealed – and heard.

departments

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Prom queens of the yard

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Symphony plays Price

Entertainment Fort Smith

May 2018

Newton’s Jewelers adds a jewel in their crown, as it were.

HEALTHY LIVING Center for Hearing celebrates 20 years of helping save hearing.

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GARDENING Hydrangeas can be easily multiplied for more show-off blooms.

WHAT’S COOKING Salads are perfect for spring, especially fresh, fruity ones.

eve n t s

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FASHION FOCUS

MUSIC & PERFORMANCE The music of an Arkansas composer brought alive by the Fort Smith Symphony.

EVENTS FOR KIDS Performances, entertainment and surprises for the whole family.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS Take your choice of motorcycle mania or take a walking tour of a historic slum. There is quite a variety of opportunity in May.

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The Grasp of God in Guatemala

C

hildren ran about with energy as boundless members of the mission team asked him to go and carefree as the bubbles dancing in the home and return with his mother. He did and wind around them. They reached toward was treated for the infection. the sky as the evanescent spheres floated higher and The group from Fort Smith’s First United higher, smiling as radiantly as the sun that warmed Methodist Church, led by former internal the rich colors of the mountains in the distance. medicine specialist Dr. David Staggs, included 14 It was a simple moment, yet miraculous for those people – five doctors, one dentist, two dental of us seeing the anomaly of this poverty-stricken assistants and others who assisted with triage, community so clearly and so immediately. The pharmacy and sanitary needs. This number, children were too young to fully understand the however, amounted to only half of the team. A political and economic climate that led to such coordinator, seven translators and a skilled bus destitution in their homeland, but in this moment, driver, hired by the church’s Guatemalan partner inequality was nonexistent. Even the language barrier Project Salud y Paz, were an integral part of the was overcome by the power of a few smiles and one mission work throughout the communities of San simple, pink and yellow bubble wand.

Antonio, Chiul, Xemanzana and Cunén.

Inside, a stream of families passed through the Over the course of four days, 721 patients were day’s makeshift medical facility – an empty seen, 268 teeth were extracted from infected, gymnasium in Chiul, Guatemala, with cement floors pained mouths and nearly 70 glasses were given layered in dust. Clothespins secured sheets to a thin to those with poor vision. Multiple cases of Many women suffered from back pain, string the mission team wrapped through the ceiling scabies were treated. Wax buildup was flushed an issue that likely derives from their structure, separating the doctors and the dental team from full ears. Relief was given to those with lifestyle. From a very young age, girls into cubicle-like rooms and offering their patients unresolved aches and pains, some of which had help care for their siblings, often the greatest amount of privacy possible. been problematic for months or even years, and carrying them in traditional Mayan The children stayed at the clinic all day, mothers saw their unborn babies for the first time shawls called rebozos. peeking in the side door or just over the on an ultrasound monitor. windowsills to catch small glimpses of the mysterious and rare Like other churches and organizations in Fort Smith, First United occurrence – medical examinations that, here in the United States, Methodist Church has long been involved in foreign missions – first in might be considered routine check-ups.

Haiti and later in Mexico. When drug cartel activities worsened along the They ran barefoot in their mismatched clothing, lice speckling some border, a search for a new location to serve began. of their unkempt hair. One boy’s right eye was so red and swollen that Pulaski Heights United Methodist Church in Little Rock connected he could barely keep it open, but unaware that anything was wrong, he the Rev. Janice Sudbrink and the rest of the team with Salud y Paz, a had no plans to see the doctor. With the help of an interpreter, nonprofit organization affiliated with the General Board of Global 8

Entertainment Fort Smith

May 2018

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Ministries of the United Methodist Church and into each patient’s native language, either dedicated to providing health services and Spanish or K’iche’. education to the Mayan population in Staggs recalls a memory from one of his first Guatemala. The church first sent a team of years in Guatemala, in which a young mother missionaries in 2012, and they have returned for brought in her infant child, who was in the final a week in February every year since. stages of hydrocephalus, a condition in which Preparations begin in the middle of summer, there is an abnormal accumulation of Staggs said. He orders a number of cerebrospinal fluid in the ventricles of the brain. medications, including antibiotics, anti“I remember thinking that if this child had inflammatories, antihypertensives, artificial been born in the United States, early treatment tears and treatments for issues such as diabetes with shunting (which would regulate the flow of and parasitic infections. Once delivered, the fluid) might have allowed the child to live,” volunteers separate the pills into individual he said. “However, there was absolutely nothing Ophthalmologist Bobby Knox helps an doses and print labels in Spanish for each medically that we could do for the child, and elderly patient after fitting him with a packet. Everything, including medical and even if we could have gotten the baby to a much-needed pair of glasses. dental equipment, is packed into 17 donated hospital in Guatemala City, it was just too late. suitcases, and then a complete manifest is outlined, which is translated What we could do, we did. We prayed with the mother and grandmother and forwarded to the Ministry of Public Health, allowing the and shed some tears, as well. I will never be able to forget that experience.” medications to pass through customs upon the team’s arrival.

Many of these patients will go a full year before seeing a doctor again, The mission trip receives generous support from the church and its but Salud y Paz is working to reduce this gap in time by making affordable congregation, as well as through fundraisers, Staggs said. This year, medical and dental care more readily available in its three permanent there were two – a fish fry in November and a benefit piano recital by clinics and by hosting teams from the United States throughout the year. junior high student Vivian Apple in January.

“Jesus said we are to love God with all our heart, soul, mind and In accordance with the mission of Salud y Paz, the Guatemalan strength and our neighbor as ourselves,” Staggs said. “The people of people were not just treated, but also educated about healthy living Guatemala are our neighbors, and by helping them we are sharing the love and self-care. Vitamins, as well as toothbrushes and containers of of Christ with each other. God willing, we will return in 2019.” toothpaste, were passed out to patients alongside the medications Story and photos by Lawrence Knox provided by Blessings International, a nonprofit organization in Broken Arrow, Okla., that facilitates medical missions.

Overall, the week was joyous and successful, but that is not to say it was immune to grief. On the last day at the Salud y Paz clinic in Cunén, radiologist Dr. Blake Hocott experienced two heart-rending Lawrence Elizabeth Knox is a situations – one female patient dying from cancer and another who photographer and journalist based in Houston. More of her work may be was expecting to hear her unborn baby’s heartbeat only to discover she viewed at lawrenceelizabeth.com. had miscarried. Hand in hand, prayers were lifted aloud and translated

Cardiologist Don Shows listens to a girl’s heart.

The makeshift medical facility at the start of the first day of clinics in San Antonio, Guatemala.

Patients passed through triage before being seen by one of our five doctors or the dental team, and then picking up their medication at the pharmacy.

A woman sees her baby for the first time in an ultrasound performed by radiologist Blake Hocott.

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SPECIAL FOCUS

SCHOOL MILLAGE ELECTION Talks with the EXPLAINERS and the CAMPAIGNERS about this

MAY 22 decision

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Fort Smith schools introduce technology early and plan for a new career and technology center To help citizens understand the upcoming ballot measure to increase funding for the Fort Smith

THE EXPLAINERS

Public Schools, we asked district administrators to explain two items of the proposed use of the millage increase, both concerning technology: the existing program providing laptops to students and plans for a Career and Technology Center.

Administrators may not advocate for or

Dr. Doug Brubaker Superintendent

Dr. Barry Owen Chief Academic Officer

against a ballot measure. They are, however,

Dr. Ginni McDonald

available to explain and describe the district’s

Director of Secondary Education

current uses of technology in education and programs it plans for the future.

What technology does the school district now provide for students?

“Four years ago, we piloted a 1:1 device program at two elementary schools, Sunnymede and Morrison, and Ramsey Junior High,” Dr. Barry Owen, chief academic officer, explained.

That’s one laptop computer for each student, which the student uses for school work and may take home, similar to the way textbooks are issued to students, traditionally.

The pilot program went well and the district moved ahead to equip all elementary students from the third grade and up with laptops.

There are about 7,500 devices with students in all elementary grades 3-6, Owen said. Devices for all students at all junior high schools, grades 7-9, will be issued this fall.

A line item in the proposed usage of the millage increase, developed by consensus of a Citizens Committee, sets a budget of

$825,000 a year for replacement of the existing laptops on a four-year cycle. “We want to keep technology in the students’ hands at all grade levels,” Owen said.

“Here’s the challenge,” Dr. Doug Brubaker, superintendent, explained. “If you don’t have a revenue stream for replacements, then you end up with 4- and 5-year-old devices. They aren’t viable tools after that time. And we haven’t reached the high schools yet. To make the 1:1 device program viable, that’s the goal.”

Is the 1:1 device program effective?

“The devices give students the ability to expand learning beyond the school site and the school day - they can use them at home,” Brubaker said. “In addition to issuing them 21st century tools, it gives students access to the very best resources. They have the opportunity to create products with these powerful tools.”

“It gives all students take-home devices for research, homework, projects, reading and collaboration and more,” Owen said. Laptop use creates efficiencies, he added. More educational materials are becoming digital. Instead of having May 2018

Entertainment Fort Smith

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textbooks that become outdated, “we have one device,” from which up-to-date, digital educational materials can be used, Brubaker added.

Dr. Ginni McDonald is the director of secondary education. After equipping students from grades 3-9 with laptops for six years, high school students will have built their academic work habits on using them, she said. “We, as educators, must reflect the changes we see in the world,” she said.

Why does the millage usage proposal include a career and technology center?

From the district’s Vision 2023 five-year planning and a consensus of citizens’ committees to take those goals to reality, a strong recommendations emerged that the Board of Education prepare students, while in high school, for college and for career.

“This strategic plan calls for kids to graduate with both a plan for their future and a skill set,” Brubaker said. It is forseeable that information technology, health care and manufacturing-related learning may be areas of focus for careers in this region.

Currently, Fort Smith’s high schools offer a number of effective educational programs that students don’t have equal access to, Brubaker said, “because these programs are isolated to one high school campus or the other.”

The school district must provide the same opportunities to all students, which a central Career and Technology Center could house under one roof, he explained, especially if it includes high-tech or specialized equipment.

Students would come to the center instead of the district duplicating these learning environments, he said. The district also would like to expand student access to the existing WATC (Western Arkansas Technology Center) program, which provides juniors and seniors with the opportunity to earn college credit while still in high school. The center's curriculum serves as an extension of the high school curriculum by providing students with hands-on training in technical fields, including automotive technology, computer engineering, computer graphics, criminal justice and welding technology, among others.

Some 157 students are now in WATC. The district would like to grow it to 300 students.

“We could expand by having a dedicated facility for it,” Brubaker explained. The Career and Technology Center is budgeted to be created in an existing facility.

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Entertainment Fort Smith

May 2018

Proposed use of millage increase, as developed by consensus of participants in Vision 2023 and Citizens Committees. Presented to the Fort Smith Board of Education March 12, 2018 High Schools

Project Cost

Mills

Southside High School Renovation & Addition Package New Secure Entry/Office and Media Center Ninth Grade Center New Cafeteria and Kitchen Remodel Existing Admin, Media and Cafeteria to Classrooms Add Two Storm Shelters

$28,245,389

1.167

Northside High School Renovation & Addition Package New Secure Entry/Office Ninth Grade Center Expanded cafeteria Remodel Existing Admin Areas to Classrooms Enclose Corridor Between Main Building and Science Building Add Two Storm Shelters

$21,196,563

0.875

$15,579,547 $13,499,472

0.643 0.577

$13,724,046

0.567

Darby Renovations Secure Entry Enclosure of Outdoor Lockers/Hallway Classroom Remodel of 2nd and 3rd Floors of Main Building

$9,664,990

0.399

Ramsey Renovations Secure Entry and Main Entrance/Office Remodel of Existing Offices to Classrooms

$3,046,588

0.126

$10,365,975

0.428

$5,500,000

0.227

$825,000

0.569

Total Dollar Amount & Mills

$121,647,570

5.558

Total Financed Projects Total Annual Recurring Costs New Millage Rate if Approved

$120,822,570 $825,000 42.058

Southside New Competition Gymnasium Northside New Competition Gymnasium 2,500-Seat Gymnasium large enough for school assemblies, athletic tournaments and special events New Locker Rooms Career and Technology Center New Career and Technology Center in Existing Facility Renovation to include Specialized Lab Spaces and Classrooms for classes in Health Care, Information Technology, Manufacturing and other programs Junior High Schools / Middle Schools

Safety and Security Secure Walls/Doors added to Open Elementary Classrooms at Barling, Cook, Morrison and Woods Elementaries Renovation of Open Classrooms to Secure, Enclosed Classrooms Re-routing of HVAC as needed for renovations Security Package: Access Controls, Alarms, Lighting & Accessibility Controlled Access System at Every Campus Secure Entry Storefront at Elementary Schools not currently equipped Exterior Site Lighting Improvements at all campuses ADA Improvements at campuses – exterior and limited interior Alarm Upgrades Technology Student Device 1:1 Annual Replacement Cycle Grade 3-12 Device Implementation on 4-year Replacement Cycle

To learn more about the recommendations of the Vision 2023 and Citizen Committees studies, visit the Fort Smith Public School District website: fortsmithschools.org Under “Our District” choose “Citizens Committee” to access all the information used by the members, available to read or download. Video of meetings also is available.

The Citizen Committee’s recommendation to the Fort Smith Board of Education can be seen in full in a video on the site.

Election day is May 22.

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Kenneth Wallace, Rodney Shepherd and retired professor Emma Watts with yard signs in support of school millage.

A citizens committee of almost 60 people who met to help form the Vision 2023 five-year plan and, then, recommend action to make that strategic plan become a reality is now campaigning for a millage

THE CAMPAIGNERS

increase. To encourage voters to pass the millage increase measure at a May 22 election, the group is making speeches, placing yard signs all over town,

Four citizens in support of the millage increase

interacting on social media, holding marches and button-holding potential voters. Supporters of the millage increase range from students of voting age to young adult, Fort Smith Public School alumni to retirees. We spoke with four of these advocates.

“

I think if Fort Smith wants to be a vibrant, thriving futureoriented community that excellent public schools have to be a part of that.

– Ken Wallace, retired

Wallace hopes to influence other retirees and grandparents to vote for the school millage increase.

“I think people that are older and retired and think, ‘Well, I’ve done my part, now somebody

else needs to step up,’ – they need to think about stepping up for their grandchildren and for maintaining this community that allowed them to live a good life here and get a good education here,” he said.

As a volunteer, Wallace served as one of the Citizens Committee members who developed the recommendation to the school board that a millage should be proposed. The experience, he said, “was really interesting. I was impressed with the process.”

“We have three children that went through public school here and had good educations. We not only want to maintain that but we want to

take the schools from being a good public school system to a premier public school system,” he explained. The slight rise in his property tax that will result if the millage is passed will be worthwhile to him and to his wife, he added.

The Wallaces find a value beyond dollars in a community that maintains good public schools.

“I don’t look on this millage as being a tax as much as being an investment in Fort Smith. It’s a small amount investing in our city and in our children who will be our future leaders.”

Wallace approves of the strategic goal of giving students the opportunity to prepare for career or college before graduation.

“One of the things that has excited me is that Dr. Brubaker has a strong background in what we used to call vocational education. I really like his concept that when kids graduate, they either have a head start in college or they have a technical certificate where they can go out and get a good job and start making money and make the workforce of this area better. It’s very practical,” he said.

Throughout the weeks approaching the May 22 election, Wallace said he and the Friends of Fort Smith Public Schools plan to do door-todoor canvasing, make phone calls and speak up to friends and colleagues.

May 2018

Entertainment Fort Smith

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“

I want our children to know that their community wants to invest in their opportunity to come back here and thrive.

– Elizabeth Coleman Voris, parent

Elizabeth Voris, 33, and her 35-year-old husband, Justin, a physician, have moved eight times since marrying. They have lived in Little Rock, Michigan and Oklahoma City and even a foreign country and still chose to move back to Fort Smith because it is “home.” But that could change.

“If this millage doesn’t pass, I don’t see what is keeping us here – because I want what is best for my kids. Passing this millage is going to be the best thing for my kids. I can’t imagine them in a gym, about eight years from now, that my dad was in,” she said. She knows other young families will base major life decisions on what they feel is best for their children, too.

Voris loves the nostalgia of enjoying that her elementary school, Woods, is much the same as when she attended. She likes that the oldest of their three children, who is 8, goes to the same school. “I really enjoy being able to serve and volunteer in the school I went to,” she said. But she recognizes that progress means change.

Voris said the experience of serving on the Citizens Committee and reaching consensus on a millage proposal showed her that every participant could not get everything they personally wanted. But they came to an agreement by prioritizing the greatest needs.

“I don’t agree with everything – all the plans we agreed upon are not what I specifically would have pinpointed, but I’m supporting it, because there are other things that are important that are going to benefit my children,” she explained.

Voters can learn everything the citizen volunteers learned in developing the proposal for using the millage increase, she said. “This hasn’t been chosen in a closed meeting with a few people; it isn’t an executive decision.” All of that process can be seen and read online at fortsmithschools.org, even now, she pointed out.

“What I love about this proposal is that every school is going to be touched,” she said.

“Like all parents, I’m thinking first about my kids and want the best for them. But this process made my faith in Fort Smith go up even higher because I saw so many people in this process – even those who don’t have kids in school – who want to make things better.”

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From his own experience, Rodney Shepherd knows that anytime someone travels, “they’re interviewing a town, in a way.”

For his career, the Arvest Bank Fort Smith president and CEO relocated from here to Springfield, Mo., in 2011. He recalls forming his impressions of the city.

“My first impressions were ‘bigger, a lot like Fort Smith, no big buildings, very clean,’” he said. But one factor was the most important to their family. “When it was time to get out of the temporary apartment, we had to pick where to live and where our daughter was going to go to school. We had to choose where we wanted her to go to junior high and high school. When folks look at this community, the schools are a big consideration.”

Any visitor could be “interviewing” us, he said. “You never know when someone will have to relocate or come back to conduct business or maybe make a recommendation to host something here.”

“

If a business looks to come here, they want to know if there is a pipeline of folks that are trained and educated to come to work with them after high school or after higher ed.

– Rodney Shepherd bank executive

A visitor or potential business investor will judge our town by how it treats its schools, he added. “I’m sure there are a lot of us who would raise our hands and say, ‘I want our school district to have a facility like’ ... just pick any one of the schools in our region we go to for events.”

Shepherd commended Jason Green of ABB/Baldor for keeping education for careers a high priority in the process of proposing the usages of the millage.

“The new career and tech center fills that need. We have a wonderful system with WATC, but we need even more of the key disciplines of IT and health care and for lead employees in manufacturing,” he said.

New, larger gyms for each high school please him for several reasons, such as hosting regional events. “The gyms and event spaces are one of the real treats for our community – all the students will be able attend one assembly. In addition to the district being able to use the space for a host of things, there’s the opportunity for the community to do a lot. “

“

My friends who are teachers don’t care that this millage increase is not about them or a pay raise. It’s all about the students.

– Cathy Williams, retired educator

Cathy Williams has more direct experience than many volunteers who participated in forming and supporting this proposed millage increase. She retired seven years ago from a long-time administrative role with the Fort Smith Public School District in which she focused on making connections between the business community and schools in Fort Smith’s thriving Partners in Education program. She also helped to coordinate career-focused programs such as WATC, a technology and career training opportunity offering early college credit in tech subjects.

As an advocate campaigning to pass the millage, she passes on the thoughts of her colleagues – active teachers.

“You know, the teachers I talked with pay taxes, too, and they are willing. They see the proposed actions as academic improvements.”

That’s what teachers care about, she said.

External things such as improving school safety, moving ninth-graders to high school and other actions are seen by teachers as a chance for them to give students a better education inside the classroom, Williams explained.

“The specific vision of this millage will take us to a progressive level of education for our students,” she said. “Ultimately, it is about them.”

Williams likes the priorities this proposal places on readying students to graduate with a skill set that helps them in the real world.

“What we hear from business and industry now is what we were preaching years ago,” she said. “Four years of college is great but if you don’t have a career plan, college is a very expensive exploration,” she said. The district is more adept at encouraging students to identify career plans. She strongly approves of giving students a chance at earning college credit and/or technical certifications in high school.

Another reflection Williams shared as a retiree whose own children graduated here is the idea that 30 years is too long a time to have gone without the passage of a millage increase.

“We’re almost a generation here, my age, who paid less than up-to-date millages,” in her view, she said. “We’re parents of some kids that have done pretty darn well with their educations. We may owe our district.”

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The Fort Smith Convention & Visitors Bureau’s annual Grit Awards (Giving Recognition In Tourism) honors those who go beyond expectations to encourage and support tourism in Fort Smith.

We believe something so important to Fort Smith’s future shouldn’t be a thankless job. These awards are our way of publicly saying thanks to the people who have most earned our local tourism community’s respect and gratitude.

RESTAURANT PARTNER

LODGING PARTNER

La Huerta Grill

Doubletree by Hilton

Juan & Elaina Barba

Duke Welsh, General Manager

ATTRACTION PARTNER The Sound Room Tracy Beck

BUSINESS PARTNER

POLLY CREWS 2 North B Street - Fort Smith 800-637-1477 / 479-783-8888 FORTSMITH.ORG

HORIZON AWARD

HOSPITALITY PERSON OF THE YEAR Daleana Vaughan Fort Smith Regional Art Museum

HORIZON AWARD

Arvest Bank Downtown

Temple Live

Five Tribes Cultural Festival

Isaac Rogers

Ed Love, Carol Smith

Jim Perry, chairman

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Dance like you’re setting a world record Fort Smith will attempt “the world’s largest street dance”

May 28 Somebody has to do it ... and it might as well be us! That’s the spirit behind the most lighthearted Fort Smith Bicentennial event.

Records are made to be broken, right? Early in the brainstorming for ways to mark our 200th birthday, Bradford Randall and others suggested a Guinness World Record attempt, with a goal of making a high-quality video to release online.

The original plan was a lip dub in which crowds pretend to sing to a recorded song – hence the name the group originally registered as a nonprofit organization. However, when they learned a “record” lip dub required more than 5,000 participants, they changed tactics.

“We found the world record for a street dance was set in 2015 with only 254 people. We can beat that standing on our heads!” he exclaimed.

A crowd must dance the same routine for 5 minutes. Do-able! And it will make for a fun musical video that may go viral.

After the planning and fundraising, the time is upon us. The attempt is May 28. Three mass rehearsals are set from 2-3:30 p.m May 20, 26 and 27 at the River Park Amphitheatre at Harry E. Kelly Park. Many more than 254 people are invited to dance in the street just before the rodeo parade begins, in the 400-500 block of Garrison Avenue, which will be closed to traffic.

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Entertainment Fort Smith

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Filmmaker Phillip Person will direct and edit the video. A writer, Joseph Hood, is onboard.

Choreography for the dance was created by Western Arkansas Ballet, whose staff will teach at the mass rehearsals, lead the performance and publish videos of the dance steps for home practice. The music, Randall said, is secret for now but will be a special mash-up of music with local resonance to Fort Smith’s identity.

“We want to see it reflect our values and our culture and how much we care about our community,” Randall said.

But can you boogaloo? Yes, says Melissa Schoenfeld, director of Western Arkansas Ballet.

Everyone from the lower age limit of 12, “up to 112,” she said, can learn this dance that will be “simple but fun. We all just have to jump in and get started learning.”

Dancers will be placed in teams by various color and their dance leader will wear that color.

The street will be sectioned by colored tape.

Friends may dance on the same team.

“To set the record, everyone must dance through the whole five minutes,” she said. “A drone will be filming to help make the official count of people.” The dance moves also will have references to the past and “Elvis moves will make an appearance,” she hinted.

Members of the Lip Dub group take a dance break at a recent meeting. Bradford Randall, (jazz hands up in the back row) is chairman.

To dance in the World Record Street Dance Attempt, May 28 • Connect online via Facebook/LipDubFortSmith

• Attend at least two rehearsals 2 p.m. May 20, 26, 27 River Park Amphitheater Practice, practice, practice along with online videos

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MAY 28-JUNE 2

See grit and top competition at the Old Fort Days Rodeo

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here are six nights of spectacle and fierce competition at the 85th Annual Old Fort Days Rodeo, a Fort Smith tradition. Skills that reflect the experiences of a working cowboy are now sanctioned athletic competitions. Well, not the bull riding. That’s just for showing off.

Some of the best rodeo competitors in the nation can be seen in the main events of saddle bronc riding, bull riding, bareback riding, calf roping, barrel racing, wild horse racing and steer wrestling.

All around that traditional core is family entertainment, Western style. There are rodeo clowns (who themselves are athletes), a

nightly national anthem contest, free performances by local musical artists, a Super Kids rodeo and, for the little cowboys, mutton busting.

It begins with the grand rodeo parade at 10 a.m. Memorial Day, on Garrison Avenue.

The Grand Entry of hundreds of horses is led each night by the Old Fort Days Dandies, the rodeo’s ambassadors and skilled quadrille riders.

June 1 is Tough Enough to Wear Pink Night, when $1 of every ticket solds will benefit the Reynolds Cancer Support House.

May 2018

Entertainment Fort Smith

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DESIGNER NOTES

Newton’s Jewelers is known as an exclusive source Garrison Avenue landmark, Newton’s Jewelers gives the feeling, inside, of a life-size jewelry box. If it is a jewelry box, its new Rolex corner is its special top drawer.

Owner Kelly Newton, who fastidiously keeps his family establishment gleaming as brilliantly as the Forevermark Diamonds in its cases, is both relieved that its construction is over and proud that customers can now enjoy the spacious new Rolex lounge.

Its tasteful displays, lighting, finishes and furniture are all designed in every detail by the iconic Swiss company, with specific materials such as hand-rubbed walnut and Stage 4 glass display case enclosures.

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A wall panel of heavy, green, sculpted glass displays the gold Rolex crown and name to set the area apart. Rolex consults closely in many ways with the select dealers it chooses to exclusively carry its watches. Newton’s has had this coveted partnership with Rolex for more than 60 years, starting with Kelly’s father.

“They have held our hands the whole time,” Newton explained. “I don’t question anything they tell me.”

It is because Rolex claims and commands a reputation as the finest watch in the world, he said. Only official Rolex retailers are allowed to sell and maintain a Rolex. The company assures that Newton’s has the necessary skills, technical

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DESIGNER NOTES

know-how and special equipment to guarantee the authenticity of each part of its watches – whether new or a valued heirloom.

When the Newtons became a Rolex dealer, Kelly’s father could not have anticipated what a cornerstone of their jewelry business the brand would become, his son noted.

By a wise plan, Rolex assorts different models of watches across the world so that no one dealer has all the timepieces it carries. Customers will travel to find the exact precious metal, watchface and features they want, which will not be found in any one store.

After a watch is sold, it may be months before another is sent from Switzerland and available again, he explained. “We get calls from all over the United States from someone who is searching for a specific watch.”

Unless that person is already a customer of Newton’s Jewelers, he or she is invited to come to Fort Smith to see or purchase the watch face-to-face. “And they do,” Kelly said.

Rolex dealers describe and demonstrate all the features of each watch and present the purchaser with a lifetime warranty that must be filled out by an official dealer. “It’s a pedigree,” he explained. “We keep the warranty in the vault until the customer is sure they have chosen the gift or personal watch they want.

Newton’s Jewelers 701 Garrison Avenue, Fort Smith 479-782-9123 newtons-jewelers.com May 2018

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goodies Shefit Ultimate running bra found at True Grit Running Co.

Total Results Brass Off Collection from Vanity Calls.

Tyrconnell whiskey, wine and mint julep Maker’s Mark in honor of the Kentucky Derby from In Good Spirits.

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goodies WubbaNubs are available at The Polka-Dotted Zebra Children’s Boutique.

BioGuard Pool Complete from Luther Stem Pools and Spas.

Framed oil painting available at Vintage Finds.

May 2018

Entertainment Fort Smith

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goodies

Decorative succulent arrangement found at A to Z Variety.

Statement necklaces and beaded earrings from Salon Elements.

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May 2018

Motivational sign and canisters available at Designer Again.

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goodies

Krewe eyewear available at Dr. Steven Stiles Eye Group.

All-in-one placemats that suction to the table from Katiebug’s.

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May 2018

Flower halo, Mother’s Day mug and inspirational framed picture found at The Goods.

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goodies

Snug kids earmuffs/ hearing protectors from Center for Hearing.

Two-piece, pleated shorts set with and necklace available at Clothologie.

Forevermark Halo engagement ring from Newton’s Jewelers.

May 2018

Entertainment Fort Smith

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goodies Skinny jeans in multiple colors from Zoe Bug’s in Charleston.

Sandals and flip flops available at Firefly Boutique & Gifts.

Power outlet side tables found at Mike’s Furniture.

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goodies

Statement tees from the Bell & May faith collection available at Now & Then Shoppe.

Mother’s Day gifts found at The Potting Shed.

Bubbies and Ba-Tampte pickles and sauerkraut from Paul’s Meat Market.

May 2018

Entertainment Fort Smith

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goodies Glass, pewter and Sterling silver necklace and necklace and bracelets of pink agate, both by Lynn Snider, found at the gift shop at Fort Smith Regional Art Museum.

Garden-themed Mother’s Day gifts from Neumeier Nursery & Greenhouses.

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goodies

Arkansas cities canvas pillow and Razorback checkers and dominoes from Jennifer’s Gift Shop inside Sparks Hospital.

Aveda be curly hair care products available at Metropolis Hair Studio.

Children’s toys from Doug and Melissa found at Coleman Pharmacy.

May 2018

Entertainment Fort Smith

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FASHION & FITNESS

Drs. Lori Boyd (from left), Trace Cash and Kelley Linton

Technology for Hearing Loss and Prevention

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t has been “20 years of ears” for Dr. “What we accept as comfortable is actually Kelley Linton and her team at the loud. Things such as concerts and race cars Center for Hearing in Fort Smith. She can potentially do damage to children’s and her colleagues, Dr. Lori Boyd and Dr. hearing,” she said.

Trace Cash, are passionate about hearing To help avoid such problems, Linton health and about educating others on the recommends fitting kids with ear muffs or importance of hearing their best. plugs. Free ear plugs are always available in the Located in Green Pointe on Rogers center’s lobby. The practice also sells Avenue, the family-oriented clinic has ear muffs for infants and up. proudly served the region for the past “They are definitely two decades. Its May anniversary aptly becoming more popular coincides with “Better Hearing to use,” Linton said.

Month,” which is celebrated “Just the other day, nationally by the American country music singer Academy of Audiology. The Jason Alden posted a initiative seeks to raise photo of his baby boy awareness of strategies for sporting ear muffs while healthy hearing, hearing loss attending one of his prevention and the audiology dad’s concerts.” profession – subjects the Outdoor sports such as center’s staff promote year hunting also can pose a risk. round with their clients and Without proper protection, the throughout the community. loud noise caused from Snug kids earmuffs are designed “We like to focus on firing a gun can cause longto work in a variety of settings hearing conservation and term damage. The center preventing hearing loss” offers devices that hunters Linton explained. “One of the major causes can wear that amplify sounds around them, but of hearing loss is noise exposure, something muffle the sound of a gun firing. that is 100 percent preventable.”

For those already affected by hearing loss, Prevention begins at the earliest age and the center features a wide-range of parents should take precautions to help technology and equipment designed to ensure children’s ears aren’t harmed. improve their overall quality of life.

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FASHION & FITNESS

Smart phones are used to assist hearing loss.

“Hearing loss happens very gradually and very subtly and often begins when people are young,” Linton said.

Patients each receive a baseline hearing test and, from there, staff can outfit patients with the device most-suited to their needs. Most hearing aids are Apple compatible and many can be connected to Androids phones, as well.

“We talk with the patients and figure out what they need based on their lifestyle. We ask questions such as, do they go to the theater a lot? Are they home a lot? Is the TV important to them?” she said. Patients’ answers help the staff evaluate what equipment will work best for them.

Linton stresses that for those battling hearing issues, addressing the problem as early as possible is best.

“Coming in sooner is better. One thing we worry about is the brain losing its ability to process words,” she said.

Linton noted that many put off seeing a doctor, saying, “I’ll go when it gets really bad.” But, in that time, unmanaged hearing loss can lead to deteriorated understanding of speech, which may not be recoverable.

“Hearing helps keep the brain stimulated, which keeps it sharp. If we get hearing aids in early, it helps the brain function properly,” Linton said.

Center for Hearing 4300 Rogers Avenue, Suite 15 Fort Smith, Ark. 479-785-3277 centerforhearing.net May 2018

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GARDENING

Hydrangeas are the prom queens of the South

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he prom queens of the South, or your favorite aunt’s side-yard selection, hydrangeas are the belle of the ball. I can’t imagine a summer without them.

These graceful flowering shrubs have few disease or pest problems, a long blooming season and are easily multiplied.

A staple at weddings and ladies’ lunches, I remember the gigantic flowers in their splendor in vases and bouquets. I was often sent out to cut the flowers from our yard. Giant armfuls of fragrant, glorious flowers were carried into the kitchen. It seems everyone had at least one hydrangea, in the smallest of gardens and the grandest of estates.

Hydrangeas blooms can last for a long time with this recipe: cut to desired length, place stem ends in cold water, then in very hot water and then in a vase. If you want a dried flower, just allow the water in the vase to evaporate to slowly dehydrate it. The dried blooms last for months.

As with many plants, they have folklore about them, such as, “Don’t plant a hydrangea by your front door or your daughters will never find a suitable mate.” However, there also is the tale that if a witch curses you, burning a hydrangea can break the curse.

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Speaking of magic, how much fun is it to change the color of a flower? With most blue and pink hydrangeas, this is possible by changing the acidity or alkalinity of the soil.

(White blooms do not change.)

Try to make blue by adding coffee grounds, citrus peels and eggshells. There are commercial products for this pH change but sometimes it’s more fun to try on your own by putting old pennies or iron nails under the plant.

To make your hydrangea more blue or change from pink to blue, increase the acidity of the soil to a pH of 4.5 to 5.5.

It is easy to make more hydrangeas from your existing plants. Here are three ways: Propagate from a shoot: Choose a low growing branch and push it down to the soil.

About a foot or two away from the main shrub, cover the branch with dirt and place a heavy stone on it to hold it down. Keep checking until new roots develop. In no time you will have a baby hydrangea – simply cut the new, rooted shoot from the mother plant. Plant in its new location and you have a new free plant. I have increased my original hydrangeas from two to many more by this method.

Propagate from cuttings: Prepare a pot for its new arrival with moist soil. With sharp pruning shears. remove a branch with about four sets of leaves. Remove all but the top two leaves.

Dip the cut end into a rooting hormone (available at any garden store) and place it in its new pot. Check later to see if you’ve got roots, with a gentle tug. When roots are present, you can plant it in the ground.

Root in water: Another of my favorite ways to increase my hydrangea kingdom is to simply cut a piece of a hydrangea and place it in a clean glass water jar until it produces roots.

I like to plant for morning sun and dappled afternoon shade. Some varieties take full sun.

The hydrangea family offers more than a classic “snowball” shrub. A tall-growing, oak leaf variety has conical, pale pink blooms that look pretty through the fall. “Lace Cap” varieties have variegated green and yellow leaves and a round, creamy bloom with an open center.

Visit some nurseries this spring to look at all the amazing new varieties of hydrangea, or ask your friends for a cutting.

– Reba Mize

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GARDENING

Left, the mother hydrangea; right, its child, created by burying a long branch to root.

Separate by chopping through with a shovel.

Above: Close-up at the conical head of an oak leaf hydrangea, which stay on through fall.

Left: Tall “child” plants created by the branchrooting method. Keep watered well after the shock of planting. Red-handled shovel for scale.

Right: Same shoots before planting, showing a healthy cluster of roots.

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WHAT’S COOKING

Sensational Salads LEMON PEPPER SPINACH SALAD with CHICKEN 1/4 cup plus 1 tbsp. olive oil 1 tbsp. lemon juice 2 tsp. sugar 11⁄2 tsp. lemon pepper seasoning, divided 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast halves, cut into 1-inch cubes 1 package (5 to 6 oz.) baby spinach leaves 1 cup sliced strawberries 1/4 cup toasted sliced almonds 1/4 cup bacon bits Mix 1/4 cup of the oil, lemon juice, sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of the lemon pepper seasoning in small bowl with wire whisk until well blended.

Set aside.

Heat remaining 1 tablespoon oil in large skillet on medium-high heat. Sprinkle chicken with remaining 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning. Add to skillet; cook and stir five minutes or until chicken is cooked through.

Cool slightly.

Toss spinach with dressing in large bowl. Top with sliced chicken, strawberries, almonds and bacon bits.

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ROASTED BEET & MANDARIN ORANGE SALAD Salad 4 small beets 2 tbsp. olive oil 1/2 tsp. coarse ground black pepper 4 cups mixed greens 1/2 cup sections of mandarin orange 1/4 cup coarsely chopped walnuts, toasted Dressing 1 tbsp. olive oil 1/4 cup orange juice 1 tbsp. cider vinegar 1 tsp. flat-leaf parsley 1/4 tsp. salt 1/8 tsp. garlic powder

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Trim beets, leaving 1 inch of stems and roots; wash.

Place beets, 2 teaspoons of the oil and 1/4 teaspoon of the pepper in large resealable plastic bag. Toss to coat beets. Place beets on shallow baking pan. Roast 40-45 minutes or until fork tender. Cool beets.

Peel and cut into 1/2-inch wedges.

Mix orange juice, remaining 1 tablespoon oil, vinegar, parsley, remaining 1/4 teaspoon pepper, salt and garlic powder in bowl with wire whisk until well blended.

To serve, place 1 cup mixed greens on each of four plates. Top each with mandarin orange sections and beets. Sprinkle with walnuts and drizzle with dressing.

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WHAT’S COOKING

ARUGULA AND PEACH SALAD 6 ripe peaches, sliced (about 4 1/2 cups) 1/3 cup olive oil 1/3 cup white balsamic vinegar 3 tbsp. chopped fresh cilantro 4 tsp. dried basil 4 tsp. sugar 1 tbsp. dill weed 9 cups baby arugula leaves 1/3 cup thinly sliced green onion 3/4 cup crumbled blue cheese 3 tbsp. toasted sesame seeds, toasted Toss peaches, oil, vinegar, cilantro, basil, sugar and dill weed in large bowl. Let stand 15 minutes. Just before serving, toss arugula, peach mixture and green onion in large bowl.

Sprinkle with blue cheese and sesame seed.

POPPY SEED FRUIT SALAD

3 tbsp. honey 2 tbsp. lemon juice 3/4 tsp. poppy seed 1/4 tsp. ground ginger 6 cups assorted cut-up fresh fruit

Mix honey, lemon juice, poppy seed and ginger in small bowl until well blended. Place fruit in large serving bowl. Add dressing; toss gently to coat. Cover. Refrigerate at least one hour or until ready to serve.

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WHAT’S COOKING

STRAWBERRY SALSA with CINNAMON TORTILLA CHIPS Strawberry Salsa 1 cup chopped strawberries 1/2 cup chopped kiwi 1/2 cup chopped seeded cucumber 1 tbsp. honey 2 tsp. lime juice 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon 1/4 tsp. ground ginger Cinnamon Tortilla Chips 2 tbsp. sugar 1 tsp. ground cinnamon 6 flour tortillas (6-inch) Salsa: Mix all ingredients in medium bowl until well blended. Cover. Refrigerate 30 minutes to blend flavors.

Chips: Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Mix sugar and cinnamon in small bowl. Spray tortillas lightly with no stick cooking spray.

Cut each into eight wedges. Place on baking sheet. Sprinkle wedges with cinnamon sugar mixture.

Bake 8 to 10 minutes or until crisp. Cool completely on wire rack. Serve with Strawberry Salsa.

SPRING VANILLA VINAIGRETTE Perfect as a dressing for a salad of baby greens with strawberries or grape tomatoes. Sprinkle with toasted walnuts, if desired.

1/3 cup olive oil 3 tbsp. white wine vinegar 1 tsp. tarragon 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract 1/2 tsp. salt 1/2 tsp. sugar 1/4 tsp. course ground black pepper Whisk all ingredients in small bowl until well blended. Cover. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

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MUSIC

& performance Season of Entertainment May 1 UAFS Choral Concert - A Grand Night For Singing A concert by the UAFS Concert Chorale and Women's Chorus, with special guests from Northside High School’s N'Sound. $8 for adults. 7:30 p.m. Fort Smith Convention Center, 55 South 7th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-8932 uafs.edu May 3-31 Van Buren Mountain Dulcimer Club A program started at the Mountainburg Public Library will also meet each Thursday to learn or practice the mountain dulcimer in Van Buren. Learn easy songs and old-time tunes while playing together. This group also is interested in building instruments. Free. 4:455:30 p.m. Van Buren Housing Authority Activity Center, 1701 Chestnut Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-369-1600 May 4-5 Community School of the Arts: Annie Jr A cast of 30 students presents this delightful musical with memorable songs, including “Anything You Can Do I Can Do Better” and “There’s No Business Like Show Business.” The Children's Theatre Company is led by director Thesa Loving and musical director Sheila Mann. $7-$12. Group discounts available. 7 p.m. May 4; 2 and 7 p.m. May 5. King Opera House, 427 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-434-2020 csafortsmith.org

Symphony to perform and record the music of Arkansas composer Florence Price MAY

The Fort Smith Symphony’s final concert of the season is the music of a remarkable composer. Florence Smith Price (1888-1953) is considered the most prominent, historically significant concert composer of her race and gender in American music history. She was an Arkansan, born and educated in Little Rock.

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She attended the New England Conservatory of Music from the age of 14, at the turn of the century. She headed the music department of the historically black college Clark Atlanta University before marrying an attorney and moving to Little Rock, where racial tensions in the 1920s influenced the family to move to Chicago. As a divorced, single mother in Chicago, she allied with other black artists struggling for recognition and wrote symphonic compositions.

She won a prize given by the Wanamaker Foundation and her Symphony in E Minor, which will be performed at this concert, was premiered by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra in 1933, making Price’s piece the first composition by an African-American woman to be played by a major orchestra. She died in 1953, having achieved much before the active Civil Rights era.

The program also includes a world premiere of Symphony No. 4 in D Minor. Our symphony will be recording for the Naxos label as the first orchestra to ever record her complete cycle of four symphonies.

Tickets are available by phone or online. 7:30 p.m. ArcBest Performing Arts Center, 55 South 7th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-7575 fortsmithsymphony.org 40

Entertainment Fort Smith

May 2018

May 4-5 Rock The Rally Friday bands include The John Beneux Band, Dirrty Blu and Barbaric Sovereignty. Saturday, Anything or Everything, Vague Vendetta and .357. Bikini and Bike contest Saturday. $7-$10. 5 p.m.-2 a.m. Tha Ave, 3211 Towson Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-561-9743 May 5 True Grit and Grind Burlesque: Cinco de Gaga A burlesque tribute to Lady Gaga, emceed by Rosa Lee Turrelle-Andrews. Performances at 11 p.m., midnight and 1 a.m. Kinkeads 2.0, 1004 Garrison Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-308-9095

Community Band May 6 River Valley Community Band Spring Concert A free concert by the River Valley Community Band in the historic Darby Junior High Auditorium. The band is a wind ensemble of volunteer musicians of all ages who continue to enjoy playing. The band hosts free public concerts throughout the year. Free. 2-3 p.m.

Darby Junior High, 616 North 14th, Fort Smith, Ark.

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MUSIC & PERFORMANCE 479-783-4159 May 7 Black Stone Cherry This hard-rocking band tours behind a new album, Family Tree. Winner of Battle of Bands to open. $20$25 plus fees. 8 p.m. TempleLive, 200 North 11th

Secret Life of Suitcases Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-222-6186 templelive.com May 9 The Secret Life of Suitcases Join Larry, a tidy office worker, on the adventure of a lifetime as his world gets turned upside down by a fantastical flying suitcase taking him further than he ever thought possible. Co-created by one of Scotland’s top puppetry companies and the UK’s leading theater for young audiences, the show is a playful, hilarious, huge-hearted piece for small people with giant imaginations. $15 adults; $9 children. 6:30 p.m. Walton Arts Center, 495 West Dickson Street, Fayetteville, Ark. 479-443-5600 waltonarts.org May 10 Fort Smith Musical Coterie National Music Club Week Celebration The musicians of Moz Art Studios, directed by Karen Brannon, will perform for National Music Week. Amy Post Sexton will play hammered dulcimer. Mayor Sandy Sanders will present a proclamation to the group. Free. 10 a.m.-noon. Moz Art Studios, 724 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-719-5455 May 10 The Charlie Daniels Band From his Dove Award-winning gospel albums to his genre-defining Southern rock anthems and his CMA Award-winning country hits, few artists have left a more indelible mark on America’s Charlie Daniels musical landscape than Charlie Daniels in his 50 years as an artist. 7 p.m. Walton Arts Center, 495 West Dickson Street, Fayetteville, Ark. 479-443-5600 waltonarts.org May 12 Primus and Mastodon in Concert Primus’ alt/punk/avant-garde/psychedelic/country sound – along with Les Claypool's surreal, feverdream lyrics – resulted in some of rock’s unlikeliest hits. Mastodon is a heavy metal band with vocalist and bassist Troy Sander, vocalist and guitarist Brent Hinds, vocalist and drummer Brann Dailor and Bill Kelliher. Mastodon the Best Metal Performance Grammy for “Sultan’s Curse” at the 60th annual Grammy Awards. All Then Witches opens. $42.50. 7 p.m. Walmart AMP, 5079 West Northgate Road,

Rogers, Ark. 479-443-5600 walmartamp.com May 13 28th Annual Hills of Fame Gospel Songfest The annual evening of inspirational gospel music commemorates the Hartford Music Co., first owned and operated in Hartford, Ark. The Hartford Music Co. published such well-known songs as “I’ll Fly Away,” written by Albert E. Brumley, “Victory in Jesus,” written by E.M. Bartlett, and “Just a Rose Will Do,” written

by J.A. McClung. All three have been inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame and all were owners of the Hartford Music Co. Special entertainers for the evening will be Mark 209. Outstanding local talent will also be featured. Free. 6 p.m. Faith Chapel at 306 Arkansas 45, Hartford, Ark. 918-658-5457 May 19 Ron White Comedian Ron "Tater Salad" White from the Blue Collar Tour phenomenon gives a comedy concert. Tickets from $69.50 plus fees. 7 p.m. TempleLive, 200 North 11th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-222-6186

The Sound of Music templelive.com May 15-20 The Sound of Music The inspiring story of the Von Trapp Family Singers made 50 years ago still draws sold-out audiences for the Grammy, Tony and Oscar-winning score. Ticket starts at $36. 8 performances with varied showtimes.

Walton Arts Center, 495 West Dickson Street, Fayetteville, Ark. 479-443-5600 waltonarts.org May 19 Spring Dance Concert Western Arkansas Ballet presents its annual Spring Dance Concert in two different performances. $5 or $20 per family. 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Van Buren High School Fine Arts Center, 2001 Pointer Trail, Van Buren, Ark. 479-785-0152 waballet.org May 24 Marshal Tucker Band The South Carolina Band fused country, rock and jazz at the right time to reach the top of the charts with singles “Can’t You See” and “Heard It in a Love Song.”

Still touring, the band is led by its original vocalist Doug Gray. Free with Rewards Club card. 8 p.m. CenterStage, Choctaw Casino Resort, 3400 Choctaw Road, Pocola, Okla. 800-745-3000 May 26 Josh Turner Multi-platinum Nashville recording artist Josh Turner is one of country music’s most recognizable hit-makers. $30. 8 p.m. Choctaw Casino Resort, 3400 Choctaw Road, Pocola,

Josh Turner

Okla. 800-745-3000 ticketmaster.com May 26 Tanya Tucker The enduring outlaw artist performs. 8 p.m. Cherokee Casino, 109 Cherokee Boulevard, Roland, Okla. cherokeecasino.com May 26-27 Gene Watson Concert Songs such as “Fourteen Carat Mind,” “Love in the Hot Afternoon,” “Farewell Party” and “Sometimes I Get Lucky and Forget” forged Watson’s reputation Gene Watson as a “Singer’s Singer.” $39.

7 p.m. King Opera House, 427 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-806-4540 May 28 Lip Dub Fort Smith Street Dance Lip Dub Fort Smith is attempting a Guinness World Record for the World's Largest Street Dance. This video would promote Fort Smith as a world-class city.

Dancers must be at least 12 years of age. Register at fortsmithlipdub.eventbrite.com and join on Facebook for rehearsal dates. Free. 8 a.m. Garrison Avenue, between 3rd and 5th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. lipdubfortsmith.com May 30 Dave Matthews Band Matthews is out for a summer tour with a new album.

All online ticket orders for the summer tour purchased

by May 17 will include a choice of CD or digital download of the new album. $49.50 lawn seating. 8 p.m.

Walmart AMP, 5079 West Northgate Road, Rogers, Ark. 479-443-5600 walmartamp.com June 2 Jim Gaffigan Comic Jim Gaffigan is known around the world for his brand of humor, which largely revolves around fatherhood and his observations on life. Gaffigan is one of only 10 comics ever to sell out Madison Square Garden. $30. 8 p.m. Walmart AMP, 5079 West Northgate Road, Rogers, Ark. 479-443-5600 walmartamp.com May 31, June 1-3, 6-9 The Fox on the Fairway Mistaken identities and over-the-top romantic shenanigans are part of this mad-cap adventure set at a stuffy country club. You don’t have to understand golf to enjoy this comedy about how far rivals will go to win the annual tournament. $12. Various curtain times. Fort Smith Little Theatre, 401 North 6th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-2966 fslt.org June 5 Cold War Kids With the new release of the album “LA Divine,” the indie rock crew pens a musical letter to L.A. $25.50$32.50 plus fees. 8 p.m. TempleLive, 200 North 11th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-222-6186 templelive.com June 7 29th Annual Bonneville House Jazz in June “Razz'n the Grove” is the theme of this annual summer party supporting the historic Bonneville House.

Enjoy jazz, good wine, a cigar and bourbon lounge and a live auction. $75. 6:30 p.m. Bonneville House Association, 318 North 7th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. May 2018 Entertainment Fort Smith 41

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MUSIC & PERFORMANCE

Mr. Haver’s Opus:

Southside’s Principal honored in music to mark his retirement after 48 years Sometimes a wonderful idea is blessed with perfect timing. Just as Wayne Haver, the longtime principal of Southside High School, announced his decision to retire last month, band director Sean Carrier of the SHS Band could reveal that an original piece of music had been commissioned in Haver’s honor, by the band. It will be played at the band’s spring concert May 2.

Carrier’s plan for a musical tribute “started before we even knew he would retire,” he said. “I spoke secretly with his wife and daughter and they said they didn’t know if he would,” he said. He and a group of teachers, alumni and band students started to raise funds.

“It was hard because he’s on social media,” Carrier said. The fundraisers had to use conventional mail, phone calls and personal contact, but contributions quickly poured in.

“There were some large donors but this was made up mainly from a lot of individual people,” Carrier said, which he found fitting considering the many lives Haver has touched.

Carrier chose an Arkansas composer, Randall D. Standridge of Jonesboro. He was very pleased at the composer’s understanding of what Carrier hoped the music could encompass.

“Educators are often the unsung heroes of the American landscape and I wanted to create a portrait of the various aspects of this man who, through his service to his country and his community, has more than earned that title,” Standridge wrote in the program notes.

Incorporating an idea from Haver’s wife, Jan, Standridge has written a very personal piece called “Life’s Railway: Three Faces of an American Hero,” that evokes Haver’s service, faith and background. The railway motif is related to a special hymn tune, his father’s work on a railroad and Haver’s favorite instrument, the harmonica.

“The composer, in the middle, has used very close harmony for saxophones to mimic a harmonica,” Carrier said. “When I showed it to Mr. Haver, he pulled out his harmonica immediately and started playing that tune in the

FEAST YOUR EARS.

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middle, which is from ‘Life’s Railway to Heaven.’”

Carrier’s favorite is the end, which has a rousing portion of “The Wabash Cannonball,” one of Haver’s favorite songs and now, the fight song of the Southside Mavericks.

“It’s very reminiscent of the way Mr. Haver plays harmonica,” he said. “It’s toe-tapping bluegrass.” He decided to reveal the music to his principal early instead of surprising him at a concert. Carrier presented Haver with a copy of the score, signed by the composer, and invited him to hear the band rehearsing it.

The band loves playing it, Carrier said. “It became a lot more personal when he came down to listen to it. When the band saw how much it meant to him, they were pretty moved. It’s a great piece of music. The opening is just beautiful and very patriotic with hints of the different songs of the Armed Forces. The middle part is that hymn tune and, of course, the school fight song to end it. It’s very much tied in with trains. Of course, ‘The Wabash Cannonball’ is a train. You’ll hear train whistles and a rhythm like a train.”

Carrier, who has worked under Haver for 16 years, is very pleased to have been able to pull off his deeply meant tribute. Haver has been supportive of the band program and inspiring as an administrator, Carrier said. “He very much trusts you, as an educator. You end up trusting yourself more,” he noted.

Haver attended North Little Rock High School, Ouachita Baptist University and the University of Arkansas. He is a veteran of the Army who served as a captain in the Vietnam War. This is his 48th year at Southside High School, where he taught, served as assistant principal and is in his 36th year as head principal.

His daughter and granddaughter attended Southside and were in the band.

The May 2 SHS Band concert is at 7 p.m. at the Southside High School Auditorium, 4100 Gary Street, Fort Smith.

It also can be viewed on a live stream online at http://bit.ly/shslivestream.

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May 1 Music Camp Registrations Open Weeklong music camps by Moz Art Studios will be held at Alma, Mountainburg and Cedarville libraries. Kids will participate in various music activities while playing various instruments. The music lessons are created to expose kids to a wide variety of musical instruments and movement games. Limited to the first 30 kids, ages 6-14. In Alma, the camp will be 9 a.m.-noon June 4-8 at the library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue; 479-632-4140. In Mountainburg, the camp will be June 18-22 at the library, 1300 U.S. 71 North; 479-369-1600. Cost is $20; call Margaux at 479-369-1600 for scholarship information. The camp will be 9 a.m.noon July 16-20 at Cedarville Public Library, 737 Pirates Way, Cedarville, Ark. 479-410-1853. The cost is $20. Call or visit the locations to register.

KIDS

calendar of events

May 1-23 Teen Time Tweens and teens will meet every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday except for the last week of May. Mondays and Tuesdays, the teens will learn crafting, life skills, and more. On Wednesdays, it’s game time for teens. Free. 3:30 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045

May 1-29 Baby & Me Babies, birth to age 3, and caregivers can join the Van Buren Public Library for songs, finger plays, bubbles, parachute play, a story, and play time. This is an opportunity for social interaction with both babies and their adults. This program supports early literacy and language skills. Free. 10:30 a.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045

“My City is a Fort” Book Signing and Celebration MAY

Meet author Kathy Watson and illustrator Stacy Bates and learn about a new children’s book created in commemoration of Fort Smith’s bicentennial.

Stemming from the concept that everyone builds forts throughout their lives, the book follows a group of children as they build their own fort and explore different places around Fort Smith. Light refreshments will be served. RSVP via email to ccosta@swtimes.com. Free. 6:30-8 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org

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May 1-31 CSA Registration for Summer Programs Community School of the Arts is now taking registrations for summer lessons, camps and other activities. Included this summer are private lessons for five and 10 weeks in music, theater, dance or visual art, preschool MusikGarten classes, a preschool theater class for 3- to 5-yearolds, Art Camp for grade schoolers, Teen Theatre Camp, Broadway Musical Theatre Camp and a Broadway Babies musical theatre camp for 5- to 8-year-olds. All activities take place in June and July. Tuition varies. St. Bartholomew's Episcopal Church, 2701 Old Greenwood Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-434-2020 csafortsmith.org

May 1-Aug. 10 Come Clay With Us Children will create some functional and some whimsical pieces of pottery clay, tools, slips, glaze and firing will be provided. Projects take about 14 days from drying to firing. Children under 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Monday, Wednesday, Friday. $15. 9-10:30 a.m. Cre8ive Arts Network Inc., 7408 Buckhorn, off Terry Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-357-9079 cre8beartsy.com May 2-23 Alma Library Story Time Toddlers and their parents are invited to a good story time every Wednesday in May except for May 30, 2018. Ms. Megan’s May story time themes are: space, stars, I Love Mom, ocean animals, and pirates. Free. 10:30 a.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140

May 2-30 Mommy and Me Join Ms. Robin’s story time for babies and toddlers. Moms need to plan on remaining with their children. Free. 10 a.m. Wednesdays. Mulberry Public Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226 May 2-23 Van Buren Library Story Time Hear new stories, sing songs, make crafts, make friends and of course, check out some books. May themes include moms, rodeo, summer and more! Free.

9:30 or 11 a.m. Wednesdays. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 Kathy Watson 44

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Stacy Bates

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KIDS EVENTS

May 3 Makey Makey Super Mario Tweens and teens, let’s play Super Mario! Combine new and old technology and put a spin on one of the most popular games to date. Use the library’s Makey Makey kit to play the classic Super Mario Brothers game. Free. 4 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 May 3-31 Story Time Traditional story time for preschoolers. Books, songs, crafts and more. Free. 10 a.m. Thursdays. Mulberry Public Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226 May 3-31 Coding for Kids Learn how to make robots do what you tell them. Free.

4:15 p.m. Thursdays. Mulberry Public Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226

May 3-31 Story Time PLUS A story time designed for children in kindergarten through second grade. Free. 3:45 p.m. Wednesdays.

Mulberry Public Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226 May 3-24 All Ages Programs There will be a variety of fun activities, such as crafts, robots and games for the entire family. Free. 3:30 p.m.

Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 May 3 S.T.E.M. Fun Tweens and teens, get together and have a little STEM fun. STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. A STEM-centered activity is held monthly Everyone is welcome! Free. 3:30 p.m.

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

May 4 May the Fourth Be With You! Everyone invited! There will be a movie and snacks.

Participants can put their name in for a drawing. Free.

3:30 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045

May 4-5 IC Spring Festival Family fun with games, good, drinks and entertainment. There also will be a silent auction and raffle tickets for a chance to win up to $5,000. 5-11 p.m.

Immaculate Conception Church parking lot, 22 North 13th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-6798

May 5 Saturday Story Time Toddlers and children are welcome to hear a story from a place far far away, there were books about jedi, sith, wookies and droids. This Star Wars-filled story

CSA Production of Annie Jr. MAY

A cast of 30 local students present this delightful show based on the popular comic strip and adapted from the Tony Award-winning Best Musical. “Annie JR” features everyone’s favorite little redhead in her very first adventure. With equal measures of pluck and positivity, little orphan Annie charms everyone's hearts despite a next-to-nothing start in 1930s New York. Annie is determined to find the parents who abandoned her years ago on the doorstep of an orphanage run by the cruel Miss Hannigan. Annie eventually foils Miss Hannigan's evil machinations, finding a new home and family in billionaire Oliver Warbucks, his personal secretary, Grace Farrell, and a lovable mutt named Sandy. The Children's Theatre Company is led by director Thesa Loving and Musical Director Sheila Mann. $7-$12. Group discounts available. 7 p.m. May 4 and 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. May 5. King Opera House in Van Buren, 427 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-434-2020 csafortsmith.org

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time will include a Chewbaccas craft, lightsaber games and a Princess Leia buns snack. Free. 10:30 a.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140

May 6 Princess Tea Party Princess tea, treats, pictures with Cinderella, a stroll and a horse and carriage ride are included at this fundraiser for the Bonneville House. Tickets available online. $5. 2-4 p.m. Bonneville House Association, 318 North 7th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-782-7854 bonnevillehouse.com

May 7 Mother’s Day Craft Toddlers, Mother’s Day is almost here! Craft flowers to show your mom all the reasons you love her. Free.

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

May 10 Maze Board Tweens and teens – make your own ever-changing maze boards. This activity uses wooden boards, nails and rubber bands to create a maze. Test out the mazes using marbles. You don’t want to miss this! This activity will be held in the teen room. Free. 4 p.m. Alma

Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 May 10 Teen Leadership Committee This is a great way to earn some volunteer hours while helping your community. Free. 3:30 p.m. Cedarville Public Library, 737 Pirates Way, Cedarville, Ark. 479-410-1853

May 11 Astronomy Program and Star Party Learn about the vast and wonderful solar system from The Arkansas Oklahoma Astronomical Society. After their program, they will set up telescopes for a Star Party at sunset for a few hours on the north side of Wells Lake to view the night sky. Free. 6 p.m. River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-3993 rivervalleynaturecenter.com

May 11 Bingo for Books Everyone welcome! Do you like playing bingo? Do you love winning free books? Bingo for books is the best of both worlds! All players go home with at least one book. Free. 10-11 a.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 May 2018 Entertainment Fort Smith 45

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KIDS EVENTS

May 12 40th Birthday Bash and 13th Annual Archaeology Day A free day to celebrate the anniversary of the founding of the first and only prehistoric, Native American archaeological site in Oklahoma open to the public. Archaeologists will be on hand to identify collections, flintknappers will be showing visitors how stone tools were made and lectures will talk about the past in this region. A sandbox for children will have treasures to find. There will be a guided tour at 2 p.m. Free 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Spiro Mounds Archaeological Center, 18154 1st Street, Spiro, Okla. 918-962-2062 May 12 Boating Education Course The Arkansas Boating Education Course teaches fundamentals of safe and responsible boating. Anyone born on or after Jan. 1, 1986, must complete a boater education course and carry a valid boater education card to operate a motorboat powered by an engine of 10 horsepower or more in Arkansas.

Register online. Free. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-3993 register-ed.com

Celebrates National Kids to Parks Day at Lake Fort Smith State Park MAY

Fun interactive activities are scheduled throughout this day and are dedicated to kids. Guided hikes, nature scavenger hunts, trivia challenges and more activities are in store.

• 10 a.m. Scavenger Hunt Challenge: Join a Park Interpreter at the Polly Crews Overlook behind the Visitor Center for a hike and game combined.

Along the trail, you will be on the lookout for many different items, animals and colors found in nature. This easy, 1¼-mile long hike/game takes about 90 minutes. Please wear sturdy shoes (no flip-flops) and bring water.

• 2 p.m. Guess that Creature: How well do you know the creatures of Lake Fort Smith? Meet a Park Interpreter in the Visitor Center to take the “creature challenge.” Identify photos, objects and sounds from the park.

You may know more than you think. Your whole family is welcome to come and enjoy this fun program, which lasts about 30 minutes.

• 3 p.m. Become an Arkansas State Park Explorer: If you like to go on adventures and explore the natural world, then why not become an official Arkansas State Park Explorer while you’re at it? Explorers embark on meaningful adventures and complete a guidebook and tasks to earn an official certificate and badge. Meet Park Interpreter Heather at the Visitor Center to find out how you can become part of this fun program. This program lasts about 15 minutes.

• 7:45 p.m. Owl Prowl: Meet Park Interpreter Heather at the Polly Crews Overlook behind the Visitor Center to discover more about owls, the nocturnal birds of prey who make Lake Fort Smith State Park their home.

The staff will even invite a few owls to come in for a visit and perhaps catch a glimpse of one up close. Take a flashlight if you have one and dress warmly. This program lasts about 45 minutes.

Contact the park at 479-369-2469 for more information and for inquiries about cabin and camping options. Free. 8 a.m.-9 p.m. Lake Fort Smith State Park, 15458 Shepherd Springs Road, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-2469, option 2 arkansasstateparks.com/lakefortsmith

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May 12 National Train Day The Fort Smith Trolley Museum will celebrate National Train Day by sponsoring an open house. Trolleys, rail cars and railroad equipment will be on display. The museum 5 and 10 gift shop will be open. Refreshments and extras will be available along with free trolley rides. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Fort Smith Trolley Museum, 100 South 4th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-650-5456

May 14 Bingo for Books Children and tweens play for Bingo for Books and a chance to win some good reads. Free. 4 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 May 14 Teen Lounge: Game Night Play video games, board games and enjoy snacks at Teen Lounge. Teens can sign up early for the Teen Summer Reading Lottery and receive an extra drawing entry for the grand prize, a Kindle Fire. Junior high and senior high school students are welcome. Free. 3:30-5:30 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org

May 15 L. Frank Baum’s Birthday Enjoy this family-friendly movie to celebrate L. Frank Baum’s birthday. A young girl carried away in a tornado and finds that one of life’s most valuable lessons is that there is truly no place like home. Free. 3:30 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 May 15 Arkansas Bugs An introduction to the insects living around the River Valley Nature Center.

Program will feature a “bug walk” lead by entomologists who will briefly describe insects often seen in the early evening. A small flashlight would be a useful tool for hikers. Free. 6 p.m. River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-3993 rivervalleynaturecenter.com May 16 Fort Smith Public Library Writing Club This is a club for writers of all skills, disciplines and ages. Free. 4-5 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org

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May 17 Makey Makey Jetpack Joyride Play the popular iPhone game Jetpack Joyride in the Teen Room. Instead of playing on an iPhone or iPad, use Makey Makey and pennies to play. Free. 4 p.m.

Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 May 17 Authors in the Afternoon featuring Debra Armbruster Barling author and illustrator Debra Armbruster will make a special appearance to promote and sign copies her children’s book “Patches’ New Name.” The picture book is about a kitten who is adopted by a new family that loves him and takes care of his needs.

Katelyn, the little girl in the adoptive family, spends valuable time with Patches. In the beginning, the kitten misses his family, but learns to love his new one. Debra wrote “Patches’ New Name” for both children and adults who have been adopted, been in the foster care system or have been taken care of by people other than their parents due to unforeseen circumstances. Copies of the book and others in the series will be available for sale and signing at this openhouse style event. Free. 4-6 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org

May 18-19 Christ the King Carnival Enjoy two fun-filled evenings with a variety of foods, including a Mexican dinner, egg rolls, hamburgers, hot dogs, pizza, barbecue, soda, beer and wine slushies, funnel cakes, snow cones and frozen yogurt.

There will be live music outside and games such as fish pond, face painting, basketball throw, inflatables, dunking booth and more. A silent auction will include a wide variety of donated items. 6-10 p.m. May 18, 69 p.m. May 19. Christ the King Catholic School, 1920 South Greenwood Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-7745

May 19 Daddy/Daughter Day A special event designed for girls and their father figures to spend some quality time together. The day will be filled with games, hair tutorials, prizes, Q&A, educational sessions for both dads and daughters, and more. Register online. Free. 1 -3 p.m. Girls Inc. of Fort Smith, 1415 Old Greenwood Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-782-0375 girlsincfortsmith.org/special-events

May 19 5th Annual Kid-Ducky Derby The day starts in front of Parrot Island Water Park with a Family Fun Festival. Local nonprofits and vendors will share information and show off their goods, as well as games, a 50/50 raffle and surprises. At 2 p.m., watch 500 little ducks race to keep kids safe. A group swim will include discounted prices for foster families.

The family fun festival and duck race are free. 11 a.m.6 p.m. Parrot Island Water Park, 7300 Zero Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-782-7837 thestepsinc.org

KIDS EVENTS

May 19 WAB 32nd Annual Spring Dance Concert Western Arkansas Ballet, a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization that includes a Dance Academy and Pre-Professional Company, presents this opportunity to see how the students have changed and improved during the year. This family event is open to the public. $5 or $20 max per family. 10:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. Van Buren High School Fine Arts Center, 2001 Pointer Trail, Van Buren, Ark. 479-785-0152 waballet.org

May 19 Story Time at the Museum with Gayle Ross Join internationally acclaimed Cherokee storyteller Gayle Ross for an extra special story time and hear tales told the traditional way. Families welcome. Free.

10:30 a.m. Museum of Native American History, 202 Southwest O Street, Bentonville, Ark. 479-273-2456 May 21 LEGO Club: Surprise Me Kids, tweens and teens are invited to design, create and build unique creations with the LEGO Club. This month’s theme is Surprise Me. Free. 5-6 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229

May 21 Bookworms Book Club Tweens are welcome to join us for Bookworms Book Club. The book for the month of May will be “Framed”

by Gordon Korman. Enjoy the discussion, crafts and snacks. And be sure to pick up your copy of the next book for June. Free. 4 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140

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KIDS EVENTS

May 24 Melted Crayon Art Tweens and teens, use the colors of spring and decorative flowers and crayons to make a colorful work of art. Free. 4 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 May 25 Writers Group: Teens/Adults/Seniors Meet with other writers to share your work, give encouragement, offer suggestions and share tips! Free. 10 a.m. Mountainburg Public Library, 225 U.S. 71 North, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-1600 May 25 Parrot Island Waterpark Opening Day 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Parrot Island Waterpark, 7300 Zero Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-6550 parrotislandwaterpark.com

May 25 Robot Races Race robots on the obstacle course. The person with the fastest time will win the ultimate library swag bag. Free. 2-3:30 p.m. Windsor Drive Branch Library, 4701 Windsor Drive, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-785-0405

Downtown Stroll and Scavenger Hunt Meet historical Fort Smith characters and learn little known facts of Fort Smith history, as well as meeting well-known legends from the city's rich and colorful past. The tour is led by Judge and Mrs. Isaac C. Parker, portrayed by Floyd and Sue Robison.

Meet Gen. Benjamin Bonneville, portrayed by Marcus Woodward; Pretty Boy Floyd portrayed by Bill Rooth; a U.S. deputy marshal in Parker's court portrayed by Steve Raney; the first female teacher in Fort Smith Public Schools portrayed

by Nancy Dunn Alhert; Eleanor Roosevelt portrayed by Virginia Wilhite and more. The downtown stroll and scavenger hunt for children is included with museum admission. $5-$7. Stroll begins at 11 a.m.; scavenger hunt at noon. Fort Smith Museum of History, 320 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-7841 fortsmithmuseum.org

JUNE

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May 22 Broadway Book Club Tweens and teens we will be discussing “The Book Thief” by Markus Zusak. Eat snacks and answer some questions about the book. This will be the last book club meeting until after the Summer Reading Program. To receive an update about the next Book Club meeting, please leave your contact information with Allison Harrison at the Alma Public Library. Free. 4 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140

May 24 Western Arkansas Ballet Company Auditions Western Arkansas Ballet, a non-profit dance academy, and pre-professional company will hold open auditions for positions in their company for the 2018-2019 season. Candidates must be at least 11 or have completed the sixth grade and have at least three years of ballet experience. The dress code for the audition class is black leotard, pink tights, ballet shoes, pointe shoes (for those with at least one year of pointe class) and hair pulled away from the face. Men are to wear black tights or shorts, white T-shirt and ballet shoes. The 2018-2019 Western Arkansas Ballet Company’s performing season includes the 33rd Annual production of “The Nutcracker,” a spring ballet, spring dance concert, Dance Fusion and the Regional Dance America Festival in Albuquerque, N.M. Each company member will be required to attend ballet classes three to five times per week, as well as rehearsals two to four times per week. $25 audition fee. 4 p.m. for ages 11-3; 6 p.m. for ages 14 and up. Arrive 30 minutes prior to the audition class time to register. Western Arkansas Ballet Studio, 4701 Grand Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-785-0152 waballet.org 48 Entertainment Fort Smith May 2018

May 25 Teen Movie Matinee: “Everything, Everything” In this movie adaption of Nicola Yoon’s YA novel, Maddy is unable to leave her home because she has an immunodeficiency that makes her allergic to almost everything. However, her life changes for the better when she begins to communicate with Olly, the boy next door. Popcorn and drinks provided at this free program for teens. Free. 2 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org

May 25-28 Friend Frenzy at Parrot Island Waterpark All season pass holders can bring a friend for free during Memorial Day Weekend Friend Frenzy. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Parrot Island Waterpark, 7300 Zero Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-6550 May 26 Annual Commissary Kiwanis Fishing Derby Youth ages 2-15 are invited to participate in the annual Fort Smith Commissary Kiwanis Fishing Derby. Check-in begins at 8 a.m. with weigh-in at 11 a.m. and lots of prizes. Free. River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-3993

May 29 Canoe Fishing on Torraine Lake Educators will be on hand to assist participants at Torraine Lake. Try fishing out of canoes, with an emphasis on fishing for crappie. All equipment provided. Open to ages 10 and above, but anyone under 18 must be accompanied by a participating adult. Space is limited. Register by phone. Free. 9 a.m. River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-3993 rivervalleynaturecenter.com

May 29-June 1 Theater Camp for Teens A new camp for students entering grades 7-12 who either enjoy or want to learn to sing, dance and act. Camp will focus around preparing the performance of Disney's “Aladdin” at the end of camp week. Led by director Shannon Stoddard. $150.

1-5 p.m. St. Bartholomew's Episcopal Church, 2701 Old Greenwood Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-434-2020 csafortsmith.org May 29-July 26 Rock and Roll to the Library: Story Time Children 4 and older are invited to a fun story hour. Preregistration is required due to space limitations. The story hours will include books, crafts and activities. Free.

10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. Sebastian County Library, 18 North Adair, Greenwood, Ark. 479-996-2856

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May 29-July 26 Libraries Rock: Sebastian County The Sebastian County Library Headquarters will offer an independent reading achievement program for children ages 4 and above. Participants will record books finished during the summer and earn prizes and incentives. Those meeting minimum requirements will be invited to a party at the end of summer.

Registration begins May 29 and runs though the end of the program, July 26. Library cards are required to check books out from the library. Games and contests will be held each week in addition to story hours and Make and Take Craft Times. Free. Sebastian County Library, 18 North Adair, Greenwood, Ark. 479-996-2856

KIDS EVENTS

May 29-July 27 Libraries Rock: Scott County The Scott County Library will offer an independent reading achievement program through the summer for children ages 4 and up. Participants will record completed books and earn prizes and incentives.

Those meeting minimum requirements will be invited to a party at the end of summer. Registration for the program begins May 29 and is open through the end of the program, July 27. Games and contests will be held each week. Free. Scott County Library, 144 West Second, Waldron, Ark. 479-637-3516

May 30 Graffiti Sidewalk Art Weather permitting, the public is invited to decorate a sidewalk square with chalk. Supplies provided. Free.

9 a.m.-6 p.m. Miller Branch Library, 8701 South 28th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-646-3945 May 30-July 25 Reading to the Beat Children 6 and older are invited to weekly Make and Take Craft Time. Sessions will include stories, crafts and activities. Call to register. Free. 9:30 a.m., 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Wednesdays. Sebastian County Library, 18 North Adair, Greenwood, Ark. 479-996-2856 May 30-July 26 Get In the Groove With Books Children 4 and older are invited to fun story hour that will include books, crafts and activities. The library also will offer an independent reading achievement program for children to keep track of books read during the summer, earn prizes, incentives and qualify for a party at the end of summer. Free. 10 a.m. Wednesdays. Hartford Public Library/City Building Complex, 109 South Broadway, Hartford, Ark.

We have gallons of fun planned this Summer with Teen Dance Parties, Dark Water Nights, Live Music Sundays and much, much more!

Purchase your season and day passes today!

479.788.6550 • ParrotIslandWaterpark.com

May 30-Aug. 3 First Lutheran School Summer Program Register now for fun activities and new friendships at the First Lutheran School Summer Program. Easy drop-off and pick-up. Care available for 3- to 12-yearolds at part-time or full-time rates. 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. First Lutheran School, 2407 Massard Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-5330 1stlutheran.com May 31 DIY Earphone Case Tired of your earphones getting tangled up? Let’s fix that by using empty mint containers to make key chains to store your ear buds. Meet in the Teen Room.

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

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KIDS EVENTS

May 31 Tiny Tot Time at Parrot Island Waterpark Tiny Tot Time offers parents/guardians and children 5 and under play time in the Tiny Turtle Island before the hustle and bustle of the day begins. 8-9:30 a.m.

Thursdays. Parrot Island Waterpark, 7300 Zero Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-6550 parrotislandwaterpark.com May 31-July 26 Reading Is Music To Our Minds Children 4 years old and above are invited to a fun story hour every week that will include books, crafts and activities.

The library also will offer an independent reading achievement program for children to keep track of books read during the summer, earn prizes, incentives and qualify for a party at the end of summer. Free. 10-11 a.m. Thursdays. Lavaca Public Library, 100 South Davis, Lavaca, Ark.

June 2 Summer Reading Kick-off Party Everyone invited to this summer reading program kick-off party. Set a goal, pick up your reading log and summer event calendar. Free. 10 a.m.-noon. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045

June 2 Summer Reading Kick-Off Party & Rockabilly Bash Dress up in your best Rockabilly attire and meet in the back garden. Food will be provided by USBank. There also will be crafts and activities. Pick up your summer reading log and enjoy live music from Aces-N-Eights.

Free. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140

June 1 Family Dance Party Music, movement and other fun activities are planned at this program for kids of all ages and their families.

Free. 3-4 p.m. Miller Branch Library, 8701 South 28th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-646-3945

June 2 Super Heroes for Autism 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run Early registration ends May 15 and guarantees a Tshirt for each participant. Late registration is available through June 1. The race will start at 8 a.m. at the corner of Darby Avenue/Ellis Street in Chaffee Crossing.

Race day registration will begin at 7 a.m. Early packet pick-up is available from 5-7 p.m. on June 1 at Creekmore Park. There will be medals for the top male and female finishers and age group awards. There will also be prizes for best costume in individual male and female (adult and children) categories and prizes for the best team costume. Chaffee Crossing, corner of Darby Avenue/Ellis Street in Chaffee Crossing, Fort Smith, Ark. 901-359-3232

June 2 Summer Reading Program Kickoff Join the Mulberry Public Library Summer Reading Kickoff. Free. 11 a.m. Community Center, Kirksey Park (Crawford County Fairgrounds), Arkansas 215 at East 8th Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226

June 2 Super Saturday: Concert with Brian Kinder and Ms. Terri.

Stop by for a kid-friendly, lively and interactive afternoon concert with Brian and Terri Kinder. Combining guitar and banjo playing talents and whimsical song writing skills, this show will amuse and entertain children of all ages. Kids of all ages will laugh and sing, dance and clap along with the music. Free. 10:30 a.m.

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

June 2 Summer Reading Sign-Up Pick up your reading logs for the summer reading program. Free. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Cedarville Public Library, 737 Pirates Way, Cedarville, Ark. 479-410-1853

June 3-8 Lorraine Cranford Summer Dance Workshop Western Arkansas Ballet hosts this intensive dance

Fort Smith Public Library Story Times

MAIN BRANCH 3201 Rogers Avenue, 479-783-0229 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday 1-5 p.m. Sunday Toddler Time (3 and under): 10 a.m. Tuesdays Preschool Story Time (3 and up): 10 a.m. Thursdays 50

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WINDSOR BRANCH 4701 Windsor Drive, 479-785-0405 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Wednesday, Friday 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Thursday Noon-5 p.m. Saturday Story Time with Louise Turner: 10 a.m. Mondays

fortsmithlibrary.org

workshop for dancers 11 and older. Prerequisite for enrollment is two or more years of classical ballet training. This workshop features daily instruction in Ballet, Partnering, Modern and Jazz technique; four hours of class each day for all levels plus rehearsals; and concludes with an in-studio showing on June 8.

Guest instructors are Peter Merz from Ballet West in Salt Lake City and Keith Cross from Houston. A $50 non-refundable deposit must be submitted with the registration form to hold a position in the workshop.

Tuition includes all classes, rehearsals and a t-shirt.

Housing may be available for out of town dancers. Call or go online to register. $475/$500. 9 a.m.-7 p.m.

Western Arkansas Ballet Studio, 4701 Grand Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-785-0152 waballet.org

June 4 Harry Potter Day Welcome Wizards, Witches and Muggles of all ages to a magical Harry Potter Day. Be sorted into a house, compete against friends in Quidditch, take a picture in Hogwarts, enter platform 93⁄4 to rest and watch “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” (PG-13) and earn house points to enter for prizes. Free. 1-3 p.m.

Dallas Street Branch Library, 8100 Dallas Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-484-5650 June 4-July 26 Tap Your Toes to the Beat of a Good Book Children 4 and older are invited to a fun story hour that includes books, crafts and activities. The library also will offer an independent reading achievement program for children to keep track of books read during the summer, earn prizes and incentives and qualify for a party at the end of summer. Free. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Mondays. Mansfield Public Library/City Hall Building, 220 Sebascott Avenue, Mansfield, Ark.

June 4-Aug. 3 Summer Food Program The Van Buren School district has partnered with the Van Buren Public Library and will provide breakfast and lunch free of charge for those up to age 18, Monday-Friday. Breakfast will be served from 8:30-9 a.m.; lunch from 12:30-1 p.m., June 4-Aug. 3. No services provided on weekends or July 4. Free. 8:30-9 a.m. and 12:30-1 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 June 4-25 Summer Monday Movies Everyone welcome to relax and enjoy a family-friendly movie with popcorn. Call for details. Free. 1:30 p.m.

Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 DALLAS BRANCH 8100 Dallas Street, 479-484-5650 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday-Friday Noon-5 p.m. Saturday Story Time: 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays

MILLER BRANCH 8701 South 28th Street, 479-646-3945 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday, Wednesday-Friday 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Tuesday Noon-5 p.m. Saturday Story Time: 10 a.m Fridays

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June 5 Baby Signs Sha Johnson will lead this four-week baby sign language class. Each week covers a new topic, such as family, animals, food and hygiene. Caregivers are invited to bring their baby (birth to 24 months) along for these interactive and free classes. 10-10:30 a.m.

Tuesdays. Miller Branch Library, 8701 South 28th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-646-3945 June 6 Jeff Coward, Science Guy Children, tweens and teens – the Crazy Science Guy is back! Enjoy fun and awesome science experiments.

Free. 1 p.m. Cedarville Public Library, 737 Pirates Way, Cedarville, Ark. 479-410-1853

June 6 Yo Yo Expert Weston Whatley The Mulberry Public Library invites everyone to this program. Free. 10 a.m. Community Center, Kirksey Park (Crawford County Fairgrounds), Arkansas 215 at East 8th Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226 June 6 Wonderful Wednesday: Concert with the Don Bailey Jazz Ensemble This concert will feature a variety of jazz swing tunes and standards from all eras – also some rock, blues and Latin jazz. Free. 2 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 June 6 Wild West Wednesday The library will offer four opportunities to meet Judge

KIDS EVENTS

Parker, Mary Parker, Bass Reeves and others in this celebration of Fort Smith’s Bicentennial. Other program dates are June 13, Main Library; June 20, Miller Branch Library; and June 27, Windsor Branch Library.

Free. 2 p.m. Dallas Street Branch Library, 8100 Dallas Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 June 7-28 Teen Summer Reading Program Tweens and teens join Ms. Lara for some exciting summer programs that prove “Libraries Rock!” Free.

1 p.m. Thursdays. Cedarville Public Library, 737 Pirates Way, Cedarville, Ark. 479-410-1853 June 7-28 Family Days Family Days are for all ages. There will be a Gross Day, a Water Day, dancing, science and more. Free. 1:30 p.m. Thursdays. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045

June 9 2nd Annual Reel-Em-In Fishing Derby Lake Fort Smith State Park Kids ages 15 and under fish for catfish, bass and sunfish. Prizes are awarded in many categories. Adults are welcome to accompany the children; however, the kids must do the fishing. Take fishing pole and tackles.

Weigh-in begins at 11:30 a.m. at the Marina. After weigh-in, there will be an awards ceremony and raffle ticket prize drawing. Free. 8 a.m. registration. Lake Fort Smith State Park Marina, 15458 Shepherd Springs Road, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-2469 option 2 arkansasstateparks.com/lakefortsmith

River Valley Nature Center Scheduled Activities DAILY 2 p.m. – Critter Crunch Animal Feeding SUNDAYS 2:30-3:30 p.m. – Archery

FRIDAY 3:45-4:20 p.m. – Nature Break Join the Nature Center staff for a 30-minute nature break activity designed for 3-7 year olds.

SATURDAYS 10 a.m. – Guided Hike

Noon-2 p.m. – Canoe & Kayak Program A parent or guardian must accompany children. Participants are required to wear a life jacket, which will be provided. This activity is weather permitting.

3-4 p.m. – Laser Shot Sharpen your hunting skills using a computer aided training program.

8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday 1-5 p.m. Sunday 479-452-3993

RAM

FREE PROGRAM • EVERY SATURDAY 12–4PM @ Fort Smith Regional Art Museum

May 5 – Water Marble Prints May 12 – Magazine Collages May 19 – Spray Paint May 26 – Tissue Transfer Art June 2 – NO RAM SATURDAYS

June 9 – Charcoal June 16 – Coin Banks (Stars) June 23 – NO RAM SATURDAYS June 30 – Shaving Cream Fireworks July 7 – Scratch Art

July 14 – Oil Pastels & Watercolor July 21 – Stained Glass July 28 – Sand Bottles

1601 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith AR | FSRAM.ORG | Tuesday–Saturday 11am-6pm Sundays 1-5pm May 2018

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CALENDAR of events

May 1 Adult Craft Class Register for craft class to be held June 5. All supplies provided. Free. Mulberry Public Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226 May 1 Recipe Club Food lovers and cooks, take a delicious dish and its recipe to share. The club discusses favorite recipes each month. May’s theme will be “a favorite dish your mother made.” Free. 1:30 p.m. Cedarville Public Library, 737 Pirates Way, Cedarville, Ark. 479-410-1853 May 1 Sign up for Crafterwork Register for a Crafterwork program scheduled for May 31. This month’s project is a homemade farmhouse wall décor picture of a chicken. All supplies provided.

Space is limited. Free. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 May 1-24 Memory Album and Journaling Class Registration Register by May 24 to participate in a memory album and journaling class to be held May 31. Free. Register during normal business hours. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140

First Tuesday in Downtown Fort Smith Shop stores and browse the season’s opening of the Rivervalley Artisan Market in downtown Fort Smith. The tent market includes local artists, artisans, bakers and performers. Youth artists and nonprofits also have exhibits and displays. Belle Starr Antique Mall, 410 North B Street, also will be holding a Vintage After Dark Lawn Social with entertainment by The Crumbs and food available from Truckin’ Delicious and Pie Scout, with Core Brewery beverages. Provide your own blankets and lawn chairs. Lawn games for all ages.

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Cap off the evening by riding the restored 1926 streetcar that operated in Fort Smith until 1933. Catch the trolley at Ross Pendergraft Park, 200 block of Garrison Avenue.

Stores, restaurants and bars offer evening specials. 5-8 p.m. Ross Pendergraft Park, 200 Garrison Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-650-0103 fstm.org

May 1-31 Free Computer Courses These free Tuesday workshops will include computer basics, exploring the web, email and more. Reservations are requested at least 24 hours in advance. Free.

10-11 a.m. B.G. Hendrix State Building, 616 Garrison Avenue, Room 101, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-424-3415 May 1-31 Miller Library Artist of the Month, Lisabeth Lockhart Lisabeth Lockhart will display her vividly colored paintings at the Miller Branch Library. In search of a hobby in retirement, Lockhart began experimenting and learning to paint with acrylics. The exhibit features brightly colored folk art. Free. Miller Branch Library, 8701 South 28th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-646-3945 May 1-31 Asian Pacific Heritage Month Trivia Adults and teens are invited to test their Asian heritage knowledge. Pick up a trivia sheet, complete it and turn in at the front desk for a chance to win a $10 BooksA-Million gift card. Free. Windsor Drive Branch Library, 4701 Windsor Drive, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-785-0405 May 2 Adult Book Club Participate in a book club that meets monthly. Free.

10 a.m. Mulberry Public Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226 May 3 Power Parenting: Bullying 101 Child Care Aware of NWA presents powerful information to parents about bullying. Parents will be taught the warning signs of bullying, how to identify if their child is the bully and how to put an end to it. A story time and a craft will be provided for younger children accompanying parents. Free. 6 p.m. Windsor Drive Branch Library, 4701 Windsor Dr., Fort Smith, Ark. 479-785-0405 May 2018 Entertainment Fort Smith 53

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Fourth Annual Steel Horse Rally thunders into town MAY The Steel Horse Rally will

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be headquartered in downtown Fort Smith for two days of fun. A new attraction is the Steel Horse Shootout, a fast-paced motorcycle racing event at 6:30 p.m.

May 4 on the dirt track of TriState Speedway in Pocola, Okla. The race is a sanctioned addition to the Oklahoma Land Rush Motorcycle Flat Track Series.

The Steel Horse Rally features a Vendor Village, motorcycle parking in the middle of Garrison Avenue, a concert and Miss Steel Horse Rally Bikini Contest May 5 at The Sound Room at 817 Garrison Avenue featuring Bobaflex, Shallow Side and more. Rally ticket information is found online.

Featured Steel Horse Rally Public Events May 4 - Vendor Village, 800 Garrison Avenue May 4 - 6-9 p.m. Lawbreakers & Peacemakers Show Free. 300 Parker Avenue.

May 5 - 9 a.m. Birds of Prey Demonstration Free. Cisterna Park, Garrison Avenue May 5 - 4 p.m. Thunder in the Valley Parade Free. Garrison Avenue

Charities selected to benefit from proceeds of the Steel Horse Rally include the Buddy Smith Home for Veterans, ARC for the River Valley, the Children’s Service League and the Fort Smith Museum of History. Donations are encouraged. Rally headquarters is at the 800 block of Garrison Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-414-3775 TheSteelHorseRally.com

Motorcycle Exhibit and Bike Show at the Museum The Fort Smith Museum of History times a popular motorcycle exhibit and 1 p.m. programs on May 4 and 5 to coincide with the Steel Horse Rally. A bike show is held on the street May 5, with Burgers & Beer provided by First National Bank.

Inside is a phenomenal review of Fort Smith’s motorcycle history, including the family dynasty of early dealer Quinn Winters and his sons, Leroy, 1956 Jack Pine Enduro champion, and Robert, 1966 Daytona 250 Grand Prix winner.

Iconic Winters bikes are on display, including the Harley-Davidson on which Leroy won the Jack Pine Enduro, on loan from the AMA Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio.

From left, Kathryn Johnson, Jean Fivekiller and Ercie Gann of Fort Smith pose at the Reynolds-Davis Building on Garrison Avenue. They were members of Motor Maids, a national motorcycle club for women.

Another national champion racer, Danny Hammond, has loaned memorabilia.

Many other local riders and racers are recalled in vintage photographs and artifacts.

“Motorcycle Memories” continues through June 2.

Admission is $7 adults; $5 veterans/military, $2 children, under 6 free.. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Fort Smith Museum of History, 320 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-7841 fortsmithmuseum.org

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Entertainment Fort Smith

May 2018

May 3 Fort Smith Public Schools Ambassador Tour Friends, Family and Community This is the second community tour where the public is invited to take a guided walking tour of two Fort Smith public schools. The stops are Sunnymede Elementary and Ramsey Junior High. The walking tour is a fun-filled day with interactive activities, student performances and close-up views of many academic and extracurricular programs.A light breakfast and lunch will be provided. Registration and breakfast begin at 8:15 a.m. Free. Register by phone. 8:15 a.m.2 p.m. Ramsey Junior High Cafeteria, Dallas Street entrance, 3201 Jenny Lind Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-785-2501, ext. 1202 fortsmithschools.org May 3 Parenting Class: Dealing with Anger Participants will explore their triggers and learn new techniques to deal with angry outbursts. This session will allow participants to share ideas and explore coping techniques to use in daily life. Register by phone.

Free. 10 a.m.-noon. Child Care Aware of River Valley, 7200 Mahogany Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-222-6930 nwachildcare.org May 3 "My City is a Fort" Book Signing and Celebration Meet author Kathy Watson and illustrator Stacy Bates and learn about a new children’s book created in commemoration of Fort Smith’s Bicentennial. Stemming from the concept that everyone builds forts throughout their lives, the book follows a group of children as they build their own fort and explore different places around Fort Smith. Light refreshments will be served.

Free. 6:30-8 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org May 3 Unite of Worship Howard Hill Church leads on the National Day of Prayer. Free. 7:30-9:30 p.m. Greenwood Town Square, Town Square Street, Greenwood, Ark. 479-996-2496 howardhillag.com May 3-31 Weekly Square Dance Watch or dance with the Cir-Q-Lators Independent Folk Dances Academy of Charleston. Square dance, line dance, couple dance, round dance, ballroom and others. This upbeat club focuses on the preservation of American Folk Dance and having lots of fun while doing that at an affordable cost. $2.50 per dancer/$5 max per family. 6:30-9 p.m. Hugg Chevrolet, Main Street and Arkansas 217 intersection, Charleston, Ark. 479-674-2578

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS

!""#"$%& '()$*)$+& !,-#./,' JUNE 2-3, 2018 A Painting A Day | Workshop by Lisa Daria Kennedy | Members $250 | Non-members $300 This workshop will embrace the painting process and the importance of a regular practice as a path to improving creativity and image making skills. Using acrylic or oil, students will discover approaches to simplify the process of painting and ways to stay inspired and motivated.

All levels of painters are welcome.

6 Rogers Avenue. Fort Smith, AR 7

Visit fsram.org/kennedy for more info and to reserve your spot!

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS May 4, 18 Redwork Redwork is a form of embroidery that uses floss to trace simple line drawings. To learn, take an embroidery needle, hoop, red floss, envelopes and a shoe box. Members teach the simple stitching and share patterns. Free. 12:30-2:30 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 May 4 Old Jail Museum Complex Season Opening The Old Jail Museum currently contains several permanent exhibits, including the Story of Greenwood, Coal Mining in South Sebastian County, the Battle of Devil's Backbone and several temporary exhibits. It is maintained and operated by the South Sebastian County Historical Society. The museum and surrounding historic properties are open from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, May-October. Tours can be arranged by appointment from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Old Jail Museum, South of the Square, Greenwood, Ark. 479-996-6357

Coke Hill – A Walk Through History Tour recalls a neighborhood whose worth depended on your point of view MAY "There was tar paper on the outside, cardboard on the inside. And a dirt floor. No

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boards, no concrete, nothing. Just dirt." In 1999, former Coke Hill resident Jimmy Sanders described the home he shared with his mother on Coke Hill in a Times Record feature written by Nancy Steel. Coke Hill was a neighborhood of hand-built dwellings that rose near the banks of the Arkansas River on property that is now part of the Fort Smith National Historic Site. A combined civic and private effort led to its destruction in the late 1950s, when its residents were compensated but evicted.

For more than 50 years before it was bulldozed, people had built homes of discarded crates, scrap lumber and tin and had lived without access to city water, sanitation or electric service, on property that had no title of ownership. While better-off citizens regarded it as a slum and an eyesore, some residents regarded Coke Hill as home and recall reliable neighbors who lived hard-working, if poverty-stricken, lives. Some of the residents worked as laborers in nearby industries – a foundry, bottling plant and other businesses near the river.

Survey a fuller understanding of life in Coke Hill, hear the memories of the people who lived in the no-man's-land and why they fought to stay there in A Walking Tour Through History: Coke Hill, presented by Friends of the Fort and the Fort Smith National Historic Site. Photographs, newspaper stories and past interviews with Coke Hill residents help tell the story of the squatters’ community “on the wrong side of the tracks.”

The walking tour will be led in small groups by a guide and will generally keep to sidewalks. It will be accessible to most visitors, according to the planners.

Tours begin at 2 p.m. at the Fort Smith National Historic Site. Donations of $5 for adults and $2 for ages 12-16 (younger children, free), will be used by Friends of the Fort, a nonprofit organization, to support future events for the public at the Fort Smith National Historic Site.

Fort Smith National Historic Site, 301 Parker Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 56

Entertainment Fort Smith

May 2018

May 4-5 Ninth Annual Airing of the Quilts Show This quickly growing show has become a regional favorite, drawing visitors from 11 states. A raffle quilt, silent auction and interesting vendors also are a part of the show. The popular Miss Sue's Tea Room will serve lunch from 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m. daily, $8. Vintage quilts also will be displayed at the city's Old Jail Museum. $5 at the door. 9 a.m.-5 a.m. Senator Ed Wilkinson Pavilion, 1050 Bell Park Road, Greenwood, Ark. 479-996-6357 facebook.com/GreenwoodQuilts May 4-6 WHCA Hanging Judge Battle at the Border The World Cutting Horse Association presents a threeday cutting horse competition, demonstrating the skill and teamwork of both horse and rider in “cutting” a cow from a herd and keeping it under control for a timed period. The rider lets the rein hand go slack to allow the smart, nimble horse to dart, stop and lunge in order to control the lone steer or heifer. Free. 9 a.m.

Kay Rodgers Park, 4400 Midland Blvd., Fort Smith, Ark. 918-208-2894 May 4-6 Birder Weekend Park staff and bird enthusiasts will be on hand to help visitors discover the flying creatures that call the park their home. Beginners and experienced birders will enjoy walking the trails to discover what flies by. Lynn Sciumbato from Morning Star Wildlife Rehabilitation Center will present a special program with some of her special feathered friends. Devil’s Den State Park, 11333 Arkansas 74, West Fork, Ark. 479-761-3325

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS May 5 Day at the Derby A Kentucky Derby watch party is a fundraiser to benefits local children in foster care. Raffles, mint juleps, Derby-style food, lawn games, bourbon tastings and a silent auction. Prizes will be awarded for best hat and best bow-tie. $35. 2-7 p.m. The Clayton House, 514 North 6th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-3930 jlfs.com May 5 Cinco de Mayo Trio Challenge A three-player team format disc golf tournament offers cash prizes for pro players and player packs for amateurs. Played on Ben Geren Regional Park’s white and orange flying disk courses. Taco trucks will offer food onsite. Three-member team entries are $90.

Register online by May 3. Ben Geren Regional Park, 7200 South Zero Street, Fort Smith, Ark. discgolfscene.com May 5 Friends of the Library Annual Used Book Sale: Mostly Fiction The spring edition of the annual sale features mostly fiction selections for adults. Hardbacks and paperbacks will be available, along with a selection of videos and audiobooks. Most paperbacks are 50 cents and most hardback books are $1. The sale will continue Sunday with all remaining titles half price. Clearance begins May 7 with remaining items priced by the bag.

Proceeds from the sale are used to buy library materials and fund library special events and projects.

Members of the Friends of the Fort Smith Public Library may come to a Friends-only preview sale from 4-7 p.m. May 4. Friends of the Library memberships start at $10 and will be for sale at the preview sale, which has a 25-book limit. Free. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org May 5 Nurses of Faith Nurses' Prayer Breakfast This 10th annual breakfast is open to all active, inactive and retired RNs, LPNs, APNs and nursing students. A visual devotion called Fruit of the Spirit will be presented by Louise Rogers, LPN, and Sue Rusher, LPN. The speaker is Dr. Carolyn Mosley, PhD., RN, CS, FAAN, ANEF, dean of the College of Health Sciences at the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith. She has a Ph.D. in nursing from Texas Woman’s University and a post doctorate in research from the University of Pennsylvania. Mosley has an abundance of educational and clinical experiences, community service activities and numerous recognitions and honors. Free to attend; breakfast may be purchased. 8:30-10 a.m.

Golden Corral, 1801 Waldron Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-484-1040

May 5 Guided Hike A member of the education staff will lead a hike along one of the center's many trails. Free. 9 a.m. River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-3993 rivervalleynaturecenter.com

May 5 Flowers and Lace May Pillow Cover Project Learn how to make a frilly, lacy pillow cover. Register by phone. $25, materials included. 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Sewing Machine Center, 6700 Phoenix Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-484-5351

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS May 5 Lei Lei's 5K and Memory Mile The 8th annual race will be held to remember the life of Leightyn Nan Holmes, who passed away from a brain tumor at the age of 5 on Aug. 7, 2010. All proceeds benefit the 501c nonprofit organization While We're Waiting, a faith-based organization that provides support and events for bereaved parents, all free of charge. $25. 8 a.m. River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-4148892 app.regwiz.io/register/leilei5k/327 May 6 TrailBlazers Hiking Club Spring Finale The hiking club will end its 16th season by walking and biking the trails at Ben Geren Park, followed by a wiener roast/potluck. Take a side dish such as salad, vegetable or dessert to share. Provide your own beverages. Club will furnish hot dogs and fixings at Pavilion No. 3. 3 p.m. Ben Geren Park, 7200 South Zero Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-646-9562 thcfs.com

Fort Smith Schools give Bicentennial Showcase MAY

In honor of Fort Smith’s 200th anniversary, more than 400 students of Northside and Southside high schools who are musicians, drama students and techs, vocalists, visual artists, photographers, dancers, JROTC cadets and cheerleaders will gather to showcase the rich products of public education in Fort Smith.

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The public is invited to attend the Showcase Dress Rehearsal at 5 p.m. May 9 or the Showcase performance at 7 p.m. May 10, all at the ArcBest Performing Arts Center.

Doors open at 4 p.m. on May 9 and 5 p.m. May 10 before the stage performance for art and photo exhibits in the lobby. Jazz ensembles will entertain as people are gathering.

Emcees for the evening are Mayor Sandy Sanders, with Rham Cunningham and Aaron Ray portraying Fort Smith mayors of the past. To open the program, all the performers will join the JROTC Color Garuda in “The Star Spangled Banner.”

The program includes “Stars and Stripes” by the Southside Band and “Semper Fidelis” by the Northside Band. The Northside Choir will perform “The Weight” and Southside Choir, “What a Wonderful World.” Southside Drama performs “Blue Skies.” The combined NHS/SHS Orchestras will perform “Blazing Bows of the West” and “Ashokan Farewell.” Northside Drama will present Scenes from “Mira,” an original NHS production. Southside and Northside dancers and cheer squads will perform. A spoken word piece will be given by Gracie Weidman & Lex and an original piece by Angel & Anya.

The performances are free of charge, but donations can be made to the Fort Smith Public Schools Foundation to support student scholarships distributed through the Benny L. Gooden Award, the Sicard Award or the Randy Bridges Award. These are one-time, needs-based scholarships designed to support students who are continuing education and developing skills beyond their high school diploma.

Two opportunities: Dress Rehearsal, 5 p.m. May 9. Showcase Performance, 7 p.m. May 10.

ArcBest Performing Arts Center at the Fort Smith Convention Center, 55 South 7th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 58

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May 7 Free Skin Cancer Screenings Presented by Dr. Garrett Nelson, Johnson Dermatology. Screenings with be made by appointment. Call to register. Free. 6-8 p.m. Donald W. Reynolds Cancer Support House, 3324 South M Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-782-6302 ReynoldsCancerSupportHouse.org May 7 Color Me Happy Every Monday, spend a relaxing time by coloring. The library furnishes all supplies, or participants are welcome to take their own artworks, markers or colored pencils. Filling beautiful, complex designs with color encourages concentration, relaxation and enjoyment.

Free. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 May 7 Mountainburg Friends Meeting The Friends of the Mountainburg Public Library meet the first Monday of every month. Free. 3:30 p.m.

Mountainburg Public Library, 1300 U.S. 71 North, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-1600 May 7-21 Ballroom Dance Lessons Learn to dance for great exercise and a lot of fun. Mike and Lisa Lawrence teach lessons every Monday. Beginners 7:30-8:30 p.m.; advanced 6:30-7:30 p.m. The dance style changes every month. No class on Memorial Day. Dress attire is casual. $5 per person per night. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Eagles Ballroom, 3321 South 66th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-208-1072 May 8 Spring Career Fair A career fair presented by the Crawford County Adult Education Center will provide free access to education and career options. CCAEC hosts local employers, community resources and schools during the fair to help individuals make a transition into training and/or employment. Resume and online job application assistance will also be provided during the event. Refreshments provided. There will also be a drawing for a chance to win door prizes. Free. 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Crawford County Adult Education Center, 605 Alma Boulevard Circle, Van Buren, Ark. 479-471-0019 crawfordcountyadulteducationcenter.webs.com

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EXPLORE OUR 100+ FUTURE-FOCUSED DEGREES...

UAFS.EDU May 2018

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS May 8 Pink and Blue: Colors of Hereditary Cancer Director Alan M. Blassberg tells the story of how breast cancer ripped his family apart and what he must face as a BRCA 2 positive male. The film highlights the fact that men carry this mutation half the time and that this lack of information is deadly. A higher percentage of men with breast cancer die than women who have the disease. World-renowned specialists from Cedars-Sinai, Basser Center for BRCA and the Pink Lotus Breast Center (including Dr. Kristi Funk, MD, Angelina Jolie’s surgeon) weigh in with the latest information on BRCA mutations, breast cancer and male patients. This free film screening is sponsored by River Valley Ovarian Cancer Alliance. RSVP by email to contact@rivervalleyoaa.com. Free. 6 p.m.

University of Arkansas-Fort Smith, Windgate Art and Design Building, 5210 Kinkead Ave., Fort Smith, Ark. May 8 The Book Lover’s Club Read a book and share a report on up to three titles.

The Book Lover’s Club meets the second Tuesday of every month. Free. 10:15 a.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 May 8 Book Talk: Lilac Girls by Martha Hall Kelly Inspired by a real World War II heroine, this powerful debut novel is a story of love, redemption and terrible secrets hidden for decades. New York socialite Caroline Ferriday has her hands full with her post at the French consulate and a new love on the horizon. Her world is forever changed when Hitler's army invades Poland. Free. 6 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140

Library exhibit features the art of Stacy Bates MAY Stacy Bates (Stacy Bee Art) is an artist and art teacher from Fort Smith. After

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graduating with a bachelor’s degree in art and a minor in education from the University of the Ozarks in Clarksville, she returned to Fort Smith where she now lives with her husband and teaches elementary art at both Woods and Beard elementary schools.

She specializes in creating pen and ink illustrations, along with murals, that combine her two favorite styles – drawing and printmaking. Her work appears on a variety of projects, from gig posters for musical acts to Arkansas-themed illustrations to public murals. During the past two years, she has completed six murals in Arkansas and Oklahoma and her illustrations have been featured in six books including the bicentennial children's book for Fort Smith called "My City is a Fort,” by Kathy Watson.

The two will hold a library book-signing on May 3.

Free. Open during library hours. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org 60

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May 9 Lounging Around Pajama Pants Learn how to make a stylish pair of pajama pants. A quick, easy project perfect for beginner to pro. Register by phone. $25, materials included. 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Sewing Machine Center, 6700 Phoenix Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-484-5351 sewingmachinecenterfs.com May 9 Table Top Gaming Grown-ups are invited to play for fun. Join other adults for card and table top games. Enjoy friendly competition and camaraderie. Free. 2 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 May 10 Wine Tasting at the Clayton House An evening of fine wines and delicious light fare. A sommelier will be pairing wine samples with a few small plates. Special pricing on wine sales, post-event.

Reservations required. Guests must be 21 or older. $20. 6:30 p.m. The Clayton House, 514 North 6th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-3000 claytonhouse.org May 10 This Emotional Life (Part 1) View a three-part, PBS video series about the latest scientific understanding of emotions and how to find support. Free. 10 a.m.-noon. Child Care Aware of River Valley, 7200 Mahogany Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-222-6930 nwachildcare.org

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS May 10 Craft Party: Collage Vases With personal pictures from home or cutouts from magazines, create a collage vase. Magazines and other supplies will be provided. Free. 2 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 May 11 Intro to Quickbooks Need Quickbooks, merchant services, retirement planning or financing? BancorpSouth representatives will cover the various deposit accounts, multiple treasury management services, as well as the merchant services that are available for small business owners.

They will also cover SBA loan products and retirement planning for small business owners. Professor Diana Payne will cover an introduction to Quickbooks. Lunch is provided by BancorpSouth. Seating is limited. Call to register. $20. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Latture Conference Center, Business and Industrial Institute, 5210 Grand Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-7742 May 11 Astronomy Program and Star Party Learn about the vast and wonderful solar system from the Arkansas Oklahoma Astronomical Society. After an indoor program, they will set up telescopes for a Star Party at sunset for a few hours on the north side of Wells Lake to view the night sky. Free. 6 p.m. River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-3993 rivervalleynaturecenter.com May 11 Cute as a Button Ruffle Baby Bloomers Make an adorable pair of baby bloomers, accented with ruffles along the backside. Register by phone. $25, includes materials. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sewing Machine Center, 6700 Phoenix Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-484-5351 sewingmachinecenterfs.com May 11 Bingo for Books Play bingo to win books. All players go home with at least one. Free. 10-11 a.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 May 11 Redwork Embroidery Redwork is a simple 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. Or join the stitching circle with other crafts such as quilting, cross-stitch or yarn work. All skill levels welcome. Free. 12:30-2:30 p.m.

Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 May 12 40th Birthday and 13th Annual Archaeology Day A free day at the Spiro Mounds will celebrate the anniversary of the founding of the first and only prehistoric, Native American, archaeological site in Oklahoma open to the public. Archaeologists will be on hand to identify collections, flintknappers will be showing visitors how stone tools were made and lecturers will talk about the past in this region. A sandbox for children will have treasures to find. There will be a guided tour at 2 p.m. Free admission. 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Spiro Mounds Archaeological Center, 18154 1st Street, Spiro, Okla. 918-962-2062 May 2018

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Local Lit: Book Signings at local libraries May 15 Meet the Author – Brian L. Gardner Gardner is the author of the action thriller “The Drowned Rat.” A systems engineer comes under threat from a mysterious criminal after he finds a drowned rat on his doorstep. With an FBI agent friend, he must decipher this strange warning. Free. 6 p.m. Mulberry Public Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226 May 17 Authors in the Afternoon – Debra Armbruster The Barling author and illustrator will sign her children’s book “Patches’ New Name.” The picture book is about a kitten who is adopted by a new, loving family. Katelyn is a little girl in the adoptive family. At first, Patches misses his family, but over time learns to love his new one. The author writes for children and adults who have been adopted, in foster care, or have been cared for by people other than their parents. Free. 4-6 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. May 18 Authors in the Afternoon – E.A. Allen Mystery writer Allen will sign his novels, “When Beggars Die” and “Shadows on a Distant Shore.” He is a farmer, history professor, and former CIA intelligence officer. When not out chasing cows who have no respect for fences, or tracking down undergraduates who have no respect for deadlines, he is usually at his desk, penning the next “Montclaire Mystery.”

Those yarns – two novels and many short stories – feature intrigue, revenge, jealousy, espionage, corruption and conspiracy – ingredients that make for a deliciously evil soup. The author gets his greatest thrill when new readers discover Gérard de Montclaire, the greatest detective of the Belle Époque, as he navigates problems that would make the likes of Sherlock Holmes, Arsène Lupin and Hercule Poirot cringe with self-doubt. Free. 46 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 62

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May 12 Boating Education Course The Arkansas Boating Education Course teaches fundamentals of safe and responsible boating. Anyone born on or after Jan. 1, 1986, must complete this course and carry a valid boater education card to operate a motorboat powered by 10 horsepower or more, including a personal watercraft, in Arkansas.

Register online. Free. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-3993 register-ed.com May 12 National Train Day The Fort Smith Trolley Museum will celebrate National Train Day with open house. Trolleys, rail cars, and railroad equipment will be on display. The museum 5 & 10 gift shop will be open. Refreshments available along with free trolley rides. Free. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Fort Smith Trolley Museum, 100 South 4th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-650-5456 fstm.org May 12 Mother's Day Tea The menu will include assorted teas, sandwiches, fresh fruit, scones with jam and cream, mini pastries, and lemonade. Call to register. $25 adult, $10 children.

1-3 p.m. The Clayton House, 514 North 6th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-3000 claytonhouse.org May 12 Foraging for Food For 95 percent of their time on Earth, humans have sustained themselves by foraging – gathering food from the natural environment. Charles and Renee Griffith teach how to safely forage for food from your own yard or the wild. Free. 1 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 May 13 Mother’s Day Old-Fashioned Trolley Rides Treat your mother or grandmother to a free trolley ride after lunch. Each mother or grandmother will receive a coffee mug as a gift from the museum. 1-5 p.m. Fort Smith Trolley Museum, 100 South 4th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0205 fstm.org May 14 Free Skin Cancer Screenings Presented by Dr. Sandy Johnson, Johnson Dermatology. A five-minute screening could be life-saving. Call to register. Free. 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Donald W. Reynolds Cancer Support House, 3324 South M Street, Fort Smith. 479-782-6302 May 14 The Skinny on Skin Cancer Dr. Sandy Johnson gives an update on skin cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment. Lunch provided after a Q&A session. Call to register. Free. noon-1 p.m.

Donald W. Reynolds Cancer Support House, 3324 South M Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-782-6302 ReynoldsCancerSupportHouse.org May 14 Adult Coloring Club A monthly coloring get-together for adults who color.

Relax and color the stress away while visiting with others. Take your own supplies or use designs and markers or pencils supplied by the library. Free. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045

May 14 Disappearing 9-Patch Quilt Top Class Learn how to make a quilt top. Call to register. $50 includes materials. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Sewing Machine Center, 6700 Phoenix Ave, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-484-5351 sewingmachinecenterfs.com May 14 Adult Book Club This month’s title is “All Over but the Shoutin’” by Rick Bragg. Next month’s club choice, “Before We Were Yours” by Lisa Wingate, will be available. Free. 7-8 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 May 14 Alzheimer’s Music and Memories Tina Hunter of the Alzheimer’s Association and Tammy, a librarian, team to make a difference for people with Alzheimer’s disease, along with their caregivers. Caregivers will meet for support while their person with Alzheimer’s has fun playing games and listening to music. Free. 1 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 May 15 Opioids and Prescription Abuse Program Ray Lozano will present an evening program that will give parents, concerned adults and school-aged youth a chance to understand the opioids abuse epidemic.

The Arkansas State Elk Association sponsors the program. Free. 7-8 p.m. Northside High School Auditorium, 2301 North B Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-785-2501 May 16 Fort Smith Public Library Writing Club This is a club for writers of all skills, disciplines and ages. Free. 4-5 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 May 17 This Emotional Life (Part 2: Facing Our Fears) A PBS video series about the latest scientific understanding of emotions and how to find support. Register by phone. Free. 10 a.m.-noon. Child Care Aware of River Valley, 7200 Mahogany Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-222-6930 nwachildcare.org May 17 Summer's Coming Knit Tie Dress Class Make a knit dress with straps that tie on the shoulder.

Register by phone. $30 includes materials. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sewing Machine Center, 6700 Phoenix Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-484-5351 May 17 Open Mic Night at Dewey’s Café A fun, casual open mic night for musicians, poets and other talented folks. Sign up at the door. Free. 7 p.m.

Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org May 17 Card Class Create unique, handmade greeting cards. This month, make a masculine card suitable for Father’s Day or a birthday and a card to celebrate a graduation. All supplies are provided. Free. 1:30-2:30 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS May 17 Book Club This month’s selection is “Earthstains” by Greg Shepard. It is a true story of two handsome young men, George and Matt Kimes, who became famous for sensational bank robberies. Their explosive careers grabbed the headlines and became news for the next 20 years. On their path to self-destruction, the family was held together by a sister and the wife of one of the brothers. The poignant story explores the human drama surrounding them and the events around them.

Free. 1:30 p.m. Cedarville Public Library, 737 Pirates Way, Cedarville, Ark. 479-410-1853 May 18 Greening of the Garden The 23rd Annual Greening of the Garden Gala is the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks' signature event and fundraiser. The garden provides Northwest Arkansas schoolchildren with classes and programs. Guests can enjoy strolling through the gardens enjoying premium wine, local craft beer and hors d'oeuvres with live music by the Northwest Arkansas Jazz Society. $125. 5:30-9:30 p.m. Botanical Garden of the Ozarks, 4703 North Crossover Road, Fayetteville, Ark. 479-750-2620 bgozarks.org May 18 Diamond Dance Dance to a variety of music including swing, ballroom, Latin and country. Dressy casual. $5 per person. 8 10 p.m. Eagles Ballroom, 3321 South 66th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-208-1072 May 19 Ale on the Border Celebrate beer, dance to the live music and enjoy the wares of food trucks. Breweries will provide samples of their unique brews. The party will raise funds for the hunger fighting non-profit Antioch for Youth & Family. A portion of the proceeds also benefit the Chaffee Crossing Veterans Memorial. $12 advance; $15 at the door, available online or at Growfresh Organics. 6 p.m. Chaffee Crossing, 7313 Terry Street, Fort Smith, Ark. growfreshorganics.com May 19 Mustang Stampede 5K The course is USATF-certified and the race will be chip-timed. Paper registration is $20 and includes a T-shirt or tank. Entry form on the Mustang Stampede Facebook page. Online registration is also available for $25 through Eventbrite. 9 a.m. Arkoma School, 620 Cook Street, Arkoma, Okla. 918-875-3351 facebook.com/mustang5k May 19 Nature Center Guided Hike A member of the education staff will lead a hike along one of the many trails. Dress for the weather and take a camera. Free. 9 a.m. River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-3993 rivervalleynaturecenter.com May 19 Story Time with Gayle Ross Join internationally acclaimed Cherokee storyteller Gayle Ross and hear tales told the traditional way.

Families welcome. Free. 10:30 a.m. Museum of Native American History, 202 Southwest O Street, Bentonville, Ark. 479-273-2456 monah.us May 2018

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS May 19 Kitchen Boa Wrap Neck Towel Class Turn a standard dish towel into a convenient boa. Call to register. $25 includes materials. 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Sewing Machine Center, 6700 Phoenix Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-484-5351 May 19 DIY Bride Idea Exchange Explore crafty, DIY wedding ideas. Free. 2-3:30 p.m.

Windsor Drive Branch Library, 4701 Windsor Drive, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-785-0405 fortsmithlibrary.org May 19 Mountain Dulcimer Club Play old classics and new favorites together. Free.

Noon-2 p.m. Mountainburg Public Library, 1300 U.S. 71 North, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-1600

RAM Lawn Social to raise funds for landscaping MAY The Fort Smith Regional Art Museum will be hosting a lawn social and fundraiser

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to raise money for improving the museum’s landscaping. Enjoy live music, a wine and beer bar, ice cream, yummy sandwiches and cookies, an art auction, a 50/50 raffle, and a chance to sponsor a flower or plant of your choice to be added to the museum’s landscape. The items for auction will include three framed John Bell Jr. prints, photography by Louis Meluso, a beautiful, handmade lap quilt by Marcia Beat and Karen Richardson, a hooked rug pillow by Wilma Hill, photography by Mark Chitwood of Mystic Rhythms Photography and original works by artists Helen Kliner, Dawn Lensing, Monica Moore and Kay Aclin.

Tickets are $10 for RAM members, $25 for non-members. Email info@fsram.org for more information or to RSVP. 6-9 p.m. Fort Smith Regional Art Museum, 1601 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-784-2787 fsram.org

May 20 Third Sunday Art Show Browse a gallery of art, all for sale. This month, artists will set up and work live on their art. Free. 1-4 p.m.

Michael's Mansion, 2900 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-883-8336 michaelsmansion.biz May 20 Clayton Conversation: History Of The Old Fort Days Rodeo Since 1933, Fort Smith has held one of Arkansas' most exciting rodeos. Denny Flynn, member of the Bull Riding Hall of Fame and director of Kay Rodgers Park, will talk about the history and traditions of the annual week-long rodeo. Flynn qualified for the National Finals Rodeo 10 times from 1974 through 1982 and set a record for the most bull riding average titles won. $10 or free to members of Fort Smith Heritage Foundation. 1-3 p.m. The Clayton House, 514 North 6th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-3000 claytonhouse.org May 20 Grand Opening of the New Mountainburg Public Library The Crawford County Library System invites everyone to attend a grand opening for the new Mountainburg Public Library. Refreshments provided. Free. 2 p.m.

Mountainburg Public Library, 225 U.S. 71 North, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-1600

CURRENT EXHIBITS

May 21 The Cubans Come to Chaffee Local historian and retired judge Jim Spears recalls the events surrounding the housing of 25,000 Cuban refugees at Fort Chaffee. This South Sebastian Historical Society event is open to all. Free. 7 p.m. Community Room, Farmers Bank, 71 West Center Street, Greenwood, Ark. 479-996-0715 facebook.com/OldJailMuseum

Will Barnet: Forms and Figures May 1- June 3 The Essence of Place: David Halpern Photographs from the Gilcrease Collection May 1- July 20 64

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By the Numbers – Works from the Fort Smith Montessori School May 1- July 29

May 22 Documentary Night: Last Men in Aleppo Follow three Syrian "White Helmets" voluntarily taking on the role of emergency rescuers in war-torn Aleppo.

These men grapple with the chaos around them and struggle with an ever-present dilemma: Do they flee with their families or stay and fight for their country?

“Last Men in Aleppo” is a thrilling and beautiful documentary about human struggle and bravery. This film is not rated. Free. 6-8 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS May 23 Mad about Mesh Tote Bag Class Turn fabric and mesh into a super cute, all-purpose tote bag. Call to register. $35 includes materials. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sewing Machine Center, 6700 Phoenix Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-484-5351

May 25 Writers Group Meet with other writers, from young adult age up, to share work, give encouragement and discuss writing.

Free. 10 a.m. Mountainburg Public Library, 225 U.S. 71 North, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-1600

May 24 This Emotional Life (Part 3: Rethinking Happiness) Third film in a series about the latest scientific understanding of emotions and apriorist support for the issues we face. Call to register. 10 a.m.-noon. Child Care Aware of River Valley, 7200 Mahogany Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-222-6930 nwachildcare.org

May 26 Guided Hike A member of the education staff will lead a hike along one of the many Nature Center trails. Free. 9 a.m.

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

May 24 Welcome Neighbor’s Book Club "The Keeper of Lost Things” by Ruth Hogan will be discussed. Free. 11:30 a.m. Dewey’s Cafe, Main Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 972-849-3004 welcomeneighborftsmith.weebly.com

May 26-27 Van Buren’s Downtown Junk Fest Hundreds of vendors, as well as food, live music and entertainment, will fill Main Street over Memorial Day Weekend. Find antiques, furniture and decor for home projects or unique, handmade crafts, clothing, jewelry and original art. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Historic Downtown Van Buren, Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-922-6862 oldtownvanburen.com

May 24 Women’s Brunch with Ms. Senior Arkansas 2017 Enjoy a brunch with Ms. Senior Arkansas 2017, Sherry Marshall. Marshall is a singer, entertainer and spokesperson. Free. 10 a.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 May 25 Shades of Summer Table Runner Class Learn how to make a table runner. Register by phone. $40 includes materials. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Sewing Machine Center, 6700 Phoenix Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-484-5351 sewingmachinecenter.com

May 28 Old Fort Days Rodeo Parade This is the big one! Hundreds of horseback riders, horse-drawn wagons, floats, marching bands, antique vehicles, custom cars and local personalities will parade down Garrison Avenue to open the Old Fort Days Rodeo week. Stake out a vantage point to enjoy this great spectacle, which continues with the opening night of the rodeo at Kay Rodgers Park. 10 a.m. Garrison Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. oldfortdaysrodeo.com

May 28-June 2 85th Annual Old Fort Days Rodeo Since 1933, Fort Smith’s rodeo attracts the top competitors in the world. See some the rankest bulls and broncs in America. Events include Saddle Bronc Riding, Bull Riding, Bareback Riding, Calf Roping, Barrel Racing, Wild Horse Racing and Steer Wrestling. Other traditions include the work of daring rodeo clowns and bullfighters, a SuperKids Rodeo and mutton-busting for young riders. The whole family can enjoy free entertainment on the Choctaw Casino stage and nightly performances by the precision-riding Old Fort Days Dandies. Advance ticket sales begin May 14 at the box office. Kay Rodgers Park, 4400 Midland Boulevard, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-2393 or 800-364-1080 oldfortdaysrodeo.com May 29 Canoe Fishing on Torraine Lake Try fishing out of canoes, with an emphasis on fishing for crappie. All equipment provided and staff will be on hand. Open to ages 10 and above, but anyone under 18 must be accompanied by a participating adult. Space is limited. Register by phone. Free. 9 a.m.

River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-3993 rivervalleynaturecenter.com May 29 Computer Basics with James Frustrated with your laptop, tablet or smart phone?

James, a tech volunteer, can help and teach users one-on-one to understand and get the full use of their own devices. Free. 1:30 p.m. Cedarville Public Library, 737 Pirates Way, Cedarville, Ark. 479-410-1853

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS May 29 True Crime Book Club Join a discussion of books chosen from the True Crime genre. Free. 6 p.m. Mulberry Public Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226 May 30 Healthy Cooking: Healthy, Affordable, Delicious Learn how to cook nutritious and delicious food for the family while staying within a budget. Includes a cooking demonstration and the prepared meal. Register by phone. Free. Noon. Donald W. Reynolds Cancer Support House, 3324 South M Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-782-6302 ReynoldsCancerSupportHouse.org May 31 Aqua Jog Adults can use the Lazy River for quiet exercise time jogging or walking in the water before the park opens to the public. 8-9:30 a.m. Parrot Island Waterpark, 7300 Zero Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-6550 parrotislandwaterpark.com May 31 Memory Album and Journaling Class Make a goal to print personal photos monthly, journal stories and arrange them in a memory album. Learn new design techniques and create memory album layouts with photo organizational specialist, Lara Carlson. Materials provided. Take 8-10 photos of your own choice. Register by May 24. Free. 2-4 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140

May 31 Parenting Class: Tantrums, Managing Meltdowns A DVD presentation by Dr. Thomas Phelan provides a new perspective and a specific, straightforward management plan for this aggravating problem. Call to register. Free. 10 a.m.-noon. Child Care Aware of River Valley, 7200 Mahogany Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-222-6930 nwachildcare.org May 31 Adult Crafty Corner Make picture magnets. The library will provide magazines, maps and other items that can be made into magnets; participants are welcome to bring any other images to use. Free. 2-3 p.m. Miller Branch Library, 8701 South 28th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-646-3945 fortsmithlibrary.org May 31 Save Your Hearing Day In honor of National Save Your Hearing Day, the staff and physicians of the Center for Hearing of Fort Smith will provide free hearing screenings. The center’s mobile unit and portable unit will be open for onsite screenings. Free. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045

June 1 Havana Nights Party with a purpose at the 6th Annual Havana Nights fundraiser for the Children’s Emergency Shelter. Tickets to the Cuban-themed party include live music, dinner and drinks, along with a live and silent auction, hand-rolled cigars, games and more. All proceeds benefit the Children's Emergency Shelter and the 300 abused and neglected children they serve each year. $100. 6:30 p.m. Fort Smith Riverfront Park, 724 South Broadway Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-242-5771 childrensemergencyshelter.org

May 31 Crafterwork: Farmhouse Chicken Picture This after-work craft is a farmhouse-style wall décor picture of a chicken. All supplies are provided, but space is limited. Make reservations through the front desk. Free. 6-7 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045

June 1 Family Dance Party Music, movement and other fun activities are planned at this free program for kids of all ages and their families. Free. 3-4 p.m. Miller Branch Library, 8701 South 28th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-646-3945 fortsmithlibrary.org

If you or a loved one is suffering from drug or alcohol addiction, or are experiencing withdrawal symptoms from the cessation of using certain substances, Sparks Medical Center–Van Buren is here to help. For more information, call 479-471-4600 or visit SparksHealth.com.

STRUGGLING WITH AN ALCOHOL OR DRUG ADDICTION? WE CAN HELP.

East Main & South 20th Streets Van Buren, AR 72901 66

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS June 1 Old Fort Days Dandies and Rodeo Queens Reunion Since 1977, Old Fort Days Rodeo crowds cheer with pride for the Dandies, young women skilled in horsemanship leading the legendary Grand Entry. As ambassadors for the rodeo, outstanding horsewomen are chosen for their riding skill, character and personality. The Dandies lead the Grand Entry, post the colors, perform a precision quadrille on horseback each evening. They travel throughout the year to appear at rodeos nationwide. The Fort Smith Chamber of Commerce formerly sponsored a Rodeo Queen contest.

Winners were chosen for their ability to sell tickets.

Many local women have fond memories of Rodeo Queen and Sweetheart contests. Dandies and Rodeo Queen photographs and artifacts will be exhibited.

Noon-1:30 p.m. Fort Smith Museum of History, 320 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-7841 fortsmithmuseum.org June 2 Super Heroes for Autism 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run Early registration ends May 15. Late registration is available through June 1. 7 a.m. race day registration.

Early packet pick-up from 5-7 p.m. June 1 p.m. at Creekmore Park. Medals for top male and female finishers and age group awards. There will also be prizes for best costume in individual male and female (adult and children) categories and prizes for the best team costume. Chaffee Crossing, corner of Darby Avenue/Ellis Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 901-359-3232 June 2 Downtown Stroll and Scavenger Hunt Meet a variety of historical characters and learn the city's rich and colorful past. The tour is led by Judge and Mrs. Isaac C. Parker, portrayed by Floyd and Sue Robison. Meet Gen. Benjamin Bonneville, portrayed

by Marcus Woodward; Pretty Boy Floyd (Bill Rooth); a U.S. Deputy Marshal (Steve Raney); the first female teacher in Fort Smith Public Schools (Nancy Dunn Alhert); Eleanor Roosevelt (Virginia Wilhite) and more.

The downtown stroll and a noon scavenger hunt for kids is included with museum admission. $5-7. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Fort Smith Museum of History, 320 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-7841 fortsmithmuseum.org June 6 Wild West Wednesday The library will offer four chances to meet Judge Parker, Mary Parker, Bass Reeves and others in this celebration of Fort Smith’s Bicentennial. Other program dates are June 13, Main Library; June 20, Miller Branch Library and June 27, Windsor Branch Library.

Free. 2 p.m. Dallas Street Branch Library, 8100 Dallas Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 June 9 6th Annual Honor and Duty 5K race All monies raised will go toward helping the 16-bed Buddy Smith Home for veterans, operated by Next Step Homeless Services. This is a certified, chip-timed race. Entry fee includes a T-shirt and runner’s bag.

Medals will be given in the under 14, 15-20, 21-30, 31-40, 41-50, 51-60 and over-60 age categories, as well as 1st, 2nd, and 3rd overall winners for male and female race racers. Race sponsorships and volunteers are needed. Register via website. $30. 7:30 a.m. Darby and Ellis Streets, Chaffee Crossing, 123 North 6th Street, Suite 200, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-242-5100 thenextstepfs.org May 2018

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DINING GUIDE

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

2401 South 50th Street, Fort Smith

LA HUERTA Warm weather and live music are celebrated at this city’s Favorite Patio Dining place, La Huerta downtown, and Favorite Mexican Food. 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.

BUFFALO WILD WINGS Chosen asa Favorite Place to Watch a Ball Game, BWW has fans as devoted to its menu as to their teams. Wings and sauces are king, but try salads and burgers. Share samplers of nachos, hot pretzels or mini-corn dogs. Great beer selection. 6550 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 Tucker present a menu of fresh, exciting selections. Brunch is divine. 7320 Rogers Avenue in Stonewood Village.

LEGACY GRILL The new Legacy Grill is lighting up the Belle Grove Historic District with pleased diners who enjoy valet parking. Full bar, extensive lunch and dinner menu plus daily chef creations such as this seared cod with zucchini noodles and Romesco sauce topped with lemon cashews. 407 North 8th Street, Fort Smith.

ROLANDO’S

New entrees are appearing as summer arrives at Rolando’s along with the classic selections and wine & drink specials. Rolando’s is a beloved Fort Smith Favorite Restaurant Overall.

Rolando Cuzco’s nuevo Ecuadorian menu is unique, full of fresh ingredients and flavors. Full bar. 917 North A Street, Fort Smith.

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