Entertainment Fort Smith - November 2017

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Mercy Featured Primary Care Providers Accepting New Patients Janis Bishop, DNP

Jessiela Roberts, MD

Amanda English, APRN

Mercy Clinic McAuley Family Medicine 3420 S. 74th Street Fort Smith, AR 72903 479.573.3740 479.478.1966 fax

Mercy Clinic Primary Care – Chaffee Crossing 7003 Chad Colley Blvd.

Fort Smith, AR 72903 479.431.3500 479.452.2098 fax

Mercy Family Medicine 100 N. Walnut, Suite A Mansfield, AR 72944 479.928.4404 479.928.4414 fax

Fernando Calero, MD

Cheryl Speake, DO

Mercy Clinic Primary Care – Cliff Drive Internal Medicine 3700 Cliff Drive Fort Smith, AR 72903 479.259.9286 479.484.5600 fax Se Hable Espanol

Mercy Kids 3224 S. 70th Street Fort Smith, AR 72903 479.314.4810 479.314.4829 fax

Misty Gonzalez, MD

Dolores Molineros, MD Mercy Clinic Primary Care – Cliff Drive Internal Medicine 3700 Cliff Drive Fort Smith, AR 72903 479.259.9286 479.484.5600 fax Se Hable Espanol

Patricio Montiel, MD Mercy Clinic Primary Care – Hope Campus 301 S. E Street Fort Smith, AR 72901 479.431.3425 479.783.0261 fax Se Hable Espanol

Rachelle Hunt, APRN Travis Walling, APRN Mercy Clinic Primary Care – Free Ferry 1000 S. Waldron Road Fort Smith, AR 72903 479.221.9922 479.221.9988 fax

Ndy Ukwe, MD Mercy Kids 3224 S. 70th Street Fort Smith, AR 72903 479.314.4810 479.314.4829 fax

Corinne Wills, APRN Mercy Clinic McAuley Family Medicine 3420 S. 74th Street Fort Smith, AR 72903 479.573.3740 479.478.1966 fax

Arthur Pearson, MD Mercy Clinic Family Medicine 2110 N. Broadway Poteau, OK 74953 918.647.7416 918.649.3508 fax

Your life is our life’s work.

Mercy Clinic Family Medicine 2800 Fayetteville Road Van Buren, AR 72956 479.314.4000 479.314.4050 fax

George Zabakolas, MD Mercy Clinic Primary Care – Chaffee Crossing 7003 Chad Colley Blvd.

Fort Smith, AR 72903 479.431.3500 479.452.2098 fax

Mercy Clinic Primary Care 500 E. Academy Paris, AR 72855 479.963.5421 479.963.5452 fax

Christina Metcalf, APRN Mercy Family Medicine 1341 W. 6th Street Waldron, AR 72958 479.637.2136 479.637.5411 fax

Amber Mobley, APRN Mercy Clinic Family Medicine 2800 Fayetteville Road Van Buren, AR 72956 479.314.4000 479.314.4050 fax

Carmen Oxford, APRN Mercy Family Medicine 100 N. Walnut, Suite A Mansfield, AR 72944 479.928.4404 479.928.4414 fax

Rachel Sing, MD Mercy Clinic Family Medicine 107 S. Logan Charleston, AR 72933 479.573.3120 479.965.2008 fax

Doctor Finder: 844.673.3939 | Online scheduling: mercy.net/FortSmithDocs

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Couldn’t decide on a name.

Not sure what color to paint the nursery.

Knew exactly where they wanted to deliver.

One of the most joyful moments of life is welcoming a new baby to the world. Mercy offers you and your family an exceptional birthing experience in comfortable, home-like surroundings.

Schedule a birthplace tour at mercy.net/FtSmithBaby Your life is our life’s work.

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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 REBA MIZE BRITTANY RANSOM

Contributing Photographers GLENN GILLEY KARRIE KELLY STEVEN HENDRICKS

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

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

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Entertainment Fort Smith

November 2017

These boys.

This is the picture that immediately led us to this month’s cover story. When we saw these faces, we knew we had to know this story.

They are the eight sons of Landi and Jacob Burton, a family that came together only this year when the Burtons added four siblings to their family of four sons. They’re all Burton brothers, now.

Through prayer and with love, the young couple doubled their number of children, forever, with one adoption ceremony. Our writer Brittany Ransom, a mother of two, asked their mom to share her story and Landi agreed, for one reason. A news story had led them to open their hearts, build on to their house and seek a group of siblings. It is Landi’s hope (and ours) her family’s story will inspire another family to grow in this way.

We noted some other folks who think big – their names are becoming familiar as again and again, they give their expertise and money to push for progress in Fort Smith. We hope more capable, determined do-ers will double the gang we have named “Fortifiers,” who make Fort Smith stronger and richer in culture and vision.

Please read the annual publication of the Fort Smith Public Schools’ “Report to the Public.”

The center eight pages of this issue are a special publication of the school district each year and we are pleased that this magazine is one of the main means by which the district seeks to inform everyone of the performance, growth and challenges to local public education.

A copy of this report is sent home with all students. By placing it in our free and widely distributed magazine, the district seeks to engage nearly every resident because we all contribute to, and have a stake in, public education.

Happy Thanksgiving month to all of you, dear readers. We are thankful to have you and for the advertisers who underwrite the publication of this hyper-local magazine.

Here on staff, we also are thankful for our friend and editor Linda Seubold’s 75th birthday, which just passed in October. It also is her fifth anniversary as a cancer-fighting survivor. You’ve got grit, Linda. Happy birthday – it is an accomplishment.

– Lynn Wasson

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

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

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

Download a subscription form from www.efortsmith.com

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

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

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CONTENTS

NOVEMBER 2017

features

10 14 16

They get things rolling

16 18 20

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An accidental birder

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First they loved four boys – now they love eight Landi and Jacob Burton doubled their family with one adoption.

By Brittany Ransom

Van Buren’s many holiday celebrations are on track Trains! Trains! Trains! is the theme of Van Buren’s many Main Street holiday activities. There’s a train everywhere you will turn.

Three notable projects in Fort Smith gain momentum A new riverfront park and a third major statue are announced while the U.S. Marshals Museum project bulldozes toward its target date.

Local eye doctor donates an E X H I B I T For the Fort Smith Museum of History, Dr. Mike Linimon installs a display of optometry instruments that spans two centuries.

Art News from this region’s two art centers Van Buren’s Center for Art & Education announces exhibits and classes. Fort Smith’s Regional Art Museum chooses a new executive director.

The joy of camper cabins includes a screened-in porch Arkansas State Parks offers a new kind of camping experience at Devil’s Den and Ouachita state parks. It’s in between a tent and a traditional cabin.

departments

22 32 34

Not roughing it

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8

52 All that jazz

Entertainment Fort Smith

November 2017

Natural Treasures in Van Buren is a source for classic home goods and gentle skin care products.

GARDENING with Reba While she was gardening, Reba Mize found she had accidentally become a bird watcher.

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WHAT’S COOKING Make it with maple – these recipes will make it “the new pumpkin” for traditional fall flavor.

DESIGNER NOTES A second-generation resale retailer reveals her own style at Revamp’d

by Designer Again.

eve n t s

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HOME

MUSIC & PERFORMANCE Take notes and order tickets quickly to many upcoming plays, musicals, concerts and celebrations. Holiday extravaganzas are upon us.

EVENTS FOR KIDS There’s a little more fall fun and a whole bunch of Christmas activities coming up for kids and for the whole family.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS Among the highlights of November are observations and programs to note the 100th anniversary of the first World War, plus two Veterans Day parades.

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Landi and Jacob had four boys – and then they had eight

W

hile Landi and Jacob Burton always knew they wanted to adopt children, they never expected that their brood of boys would double in size. Now parents to eight young energetic fellas, they couldn’t imagine their home any other way.

Adoption had long been a part of the Burtons’ plan and after giving birth to four boys, the couple began to think about expanding their family again. They considered adding girls, but knew for sure they wanted a sibling group. After watching an inspiring story about a professional football player who had been adopted, the Burtons began to evaluate what was keeping them from starting the process.

“We asked ourselves, ‘What are we waiting on? Enough room? We’ll add on,’ ” Landi said.

That night, she went online to look up pictures of Arkansas children in need of homes. It was then that she came across a photo of four adorable brothers.

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November 2017

Something stirred within her and she felt compelled to find out more about them.

Landi inquired via email about the boys in the photo. Then, she and her family started praying for the brothers and the upcoming adoption journey.

Meanwhile, Jacob, a licensed contractor, began a major addition to their home.

“We were rushing to get the house done.

We had to get to a certain point to even be legally open for the process,” he explained.

The Burtons enlarged their log cabin-style home to include a larger family room, dining area and kitchen. Their new plans also included construction of a wing for the boys, featuring eight queen size bunks and adequate bathroom and play space for all eight children. Thankfully, they completed the project just in time. “The Lord got us open exactly when we needed to be,” he said.

During that period of almost six months, the Burtons learned more about the four brothers and were informed the judge did, in

fact, want to keep them together. The Burton family was able to meet their future sons at a special adoption event in Little Rock known as Project Zero. Landi recalls the moments leading up to it as a bit surreal. “We were fixing to meet these little boys, who we felt like were our boys.”

The meeting affirmed Landi and Jacob’s belief that the boys were meant to be a part of their family, but the coming months would present some major obstacles. Early on, DHS informed the Burtons they were not considered “a match” for the sibling group, but the family decided to fight for them. “We didn’t believe that was the Lord’s will. Jacob called and asked what we needed to do.”

The two were invited to meet with a panel where they were asked questions, including how they would deal with challenges, such as raising children of different races. “The questions were tough. We just stressed that we were going to love them, nurture them and give them structure,” she said.

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“

“

We asked ourselves, ‘What are we waiting on?’

The entire family was greatly relieved when they received the go-ahead from DHS. Over the next several months, the Burtons met with the four boys for daylong visits that included trips to the zoo and picnics in the park. Once their home was open, Landi and Jacob were then allowed to have them for overnight and weekend visits, which gave the family a firsthand look at how all eight boys would interact.

In February, the boys officially moved in.

Having been separated in different homes for several years, the brothers struggled, at first, to get along.

“They had to learn how to be brothers.

How to deal when something didn’t go their way,” their mother said.

Over time, the parents began to see big differences in their soon-to-be-adopted sons’ behavior. They began to embrace their surroundings, opting for outdoor time, versus the screens they had become accustomed to in previous foster homes. Behavioral problems decreased and going out for family functions became easier.

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Landi said there were moments, especially early on, that caring for eight children felt overwhelming.

“We saw there were going to be challenges, but never felt like we shouldn’t do it. It’s been hard, but good,” she said. “We just always felt like we should keep going.”

Aug. 8 was official adoption day for the Burton crew. To celebrate, Landi and Jacob had new family photos taken.

Their new sons also opted to legally change their names. They all chose names from the Bible, except Elijah, whose name already was of an Old Testament prophet. In a Burton tradition, they selected new, nature-themed middle names.

From oldest to youngest, the Burton brothers are Daniel Stone Burton, 11; Samuel Wolf Burton, 10; Andrew River Burton, 10; Matthew Bear Burton, 9; Silas Eagle Burton, 8; Jeremiah Badger Burton, 8; Elijah Hawk Burton, 6, and Seth Bison Burton, 6.

Nearly three months post-adoption, Landi believes her family has settled into a solid routine. Mornings are for breakfast and homeschooling, alternated with lots of time roaming the family’s vast property.

“They are always outside building stuff or coming and telling me about what they have found outdoors,” she said.

The boys also have specific chores assigned to them. Afternoons generally include traveling into town for football practice.

Landi’s biggest challenge comes in feeding her family of 10 – no surprise to parents of many fewer children. “We go through eight to 10 gallons of milk each week!”

Although Jacob and Landi undoubtedly have their hands full, it is their hearts that are overflowing.

“Jacob is so awesome with them. He is just a really good ‘boy dad.’ He can have five different games going at once and includes all of them in the fun,” Landi said.

Landi is proud of all her boys – how her adopted sons have adjusted to their new lives and how her biological sons have embraced their new siblings.

“The Lord brought our family together and we are grateful for it. Just as that story we saw on TV encouraged us to move forward in the process, we hope our story will maybe inspire others to open their hearts and homes to adoption.”

– Brittany Ransom

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Entertainment Fort Smith

November 2017

Although the Burton boys have only been brothers less than a year, their family album of pictures is growing as fast as they are. On a trip to the waterpark, above, and the whole crew on their bicycles, below.

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Stops on the Van Buren Great Train Experience Van Buren Public Library 1409 Main Street “It’s a Wonderful Life” Village Train Depot, 813 Main Street Boy Scout Train and Campground Willy Nilly, 712 Main Street Dinosaurs Train Firefly Boutique, 613 Main Street Christmas Train Chapters on Main, 816 Main Street Upside Down Train BoomARang Diner, 600 Main Street Old West Train Van Buren Senior Center, 8 Lafayette Street Circus Set and 1960s “All Aboard” Set Women’s Literary Club, 421 Webster Large-scale Giraffe Train, Thomas the Tank Engine and Polar Express locomotives

Van Buren Schedule

Details in Calendar of Events pages Nov. 24-26 and Dec. 4-5 Van Buren Pajama Train Van Buren Public Library Activities Nov. 30 – Lego Train building Dec. 1– Making Train Ornaments Dec. 2– Breakfast with Santa Dec. 7– Making Christmas Cards Dec. 8– Christmas Cookies Dec. 9 – Polar Express Movie Dec. 2 Heritage United Methodist Church Outreach and food giveaway in the downtown area Dec. 2 Courthouse Lighting Festival of Trees Living Windows Dec. 9 Christmas Parade on Main Street November 2017

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Whether on two wheels or on skateboards, riders will soon roll into a fun, adventurous cycle/skate park on the downtown riverfront.

A group of familiar benefactors, led by Sam Sicard of First National Bank, has announced their intention to help the city open a skateboard and cycling park in 2018.

Along with fellow philanthropists Steve Clark of Propak Logistics Inc. and Bill Hanna of Hanna Oil & Gas, Sicard said the goal is to open the park by Memorial Day. Several kinds of courses will make up the park, still being designed by Bobby Aldridge of Frontier Engineering Inc. The group has picked the best ideas from similar parks nationwide.

Skaters and bikers will be able to use a classic skatepark course in the park, for challenging riding in bowls, half-pipes and other features.

A “pump track,” a cycle course with lots of moguls and grade changes, will condition mountain bike riders to “pump” their weight and propel the bike without pedaling.

For smaller kids who ride strider bikes or use training wheels, there’s a children’s track with interesting features that is more their speed.

The bike/skate park site is adjacent to the existing Riverfront Events Building parking lot 16

tourism

recreation

Downtown projects gain momentum: a skate/bike park,

Entertainment Fort Smith

November 2017

First National Bank employees hold a check for $100,000 the bank donated to the project.

on the area that was originally designated for the U.S. Marshals Museum, which has been moved to a site only a few thousand yards farther down Riverfront Drive. The new paved and lighted Greg Smith Riverfront Trail hugs the edge of the river and runs along both sites.

These activist donors, First National Bank, Hanna and Clark and others, are repeating the same public/private funding partnership with the City of Fort Smith that is being used to push forward a local, continuous trail system.

They want the park to be completed quickly – they’re ready to ride!

Mark your calendars, say the U.S. Marshals Museum backers – the long-awaited museum will open on 9/24/2019.

The fictional deputy marshal Rooster Cogburn popularized the word “grit” but in real life, everyone who has stuck to the tough goal of establishing a U.S. Marshals Museum in Fort Smith has been showing true tenacity that now is showing results.

The earth, tons of it, has been moving since last month on the banks of the Arkansas River. The dirt work is to level the grade and stabilize an earthen pad in readiness for a construction start in early spring, according to Patrick Weeks, president and CEO of the U.S. Marshals Museum.

The star-shaped, 53,000-square-foot museum building was designed to be a striking landmark, visible from the bridge over the Arkansas River, with one of the star’s points stretching toward Oklahoma, the historical Indian Territory jurisdiction where the greatest number of deputy marshals died in the line of duty.

It will become a companion to the Fort Smith Historic Site, which has preserved the courthouse where the deputy marshals brought suspects to be tried in federal court.

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Citizens of Fort Smith and this surrounding two-state region, many proud descendants of those tough and capable deputies, have been the most active, generous and loyal supporters of the proposed museum. The convoy of dump trucks and bulldozers is a welcome sight.

Starting with the family of Robert Westphal, which donated the riverfront acreage for the museum, local donors been the most generous givers to the project. The museum will tell the rich history of the perilous work of Marshals Service lawmen who served here, but also include the entire scope and ongoing work of the federal law enforcement agency founded with the nation’s federal judicial system in 1789.

Weeks said the opening date of Sept. 24, 2019, was chosen because it is the 230th anniversary of the service’s creation by Congress in the Judiciary Act of 1789.

A Hall of Honor, one of the exhibits that will tell the long, rich story of the U.S. Marshals Service.

recognition

Marshals Museum progress and a Judge Parker statue Garrison Avenue’s Bass Reeves and William O. Darby statues will be joined by another historic figure, Judge Isaac C. Parker

Another consortium of Fort Smith folks with a track record of proposing and completing high-visibility projects recently went public with plans to upgrade a “gateway” into downtown Fort Smith and to place, in a new park, a largerthan life-sized bronze statue of Judge Isaac C. Parker (1838-1896).

The statue will stand on the spearhead of land where Rogers and Garrison avenues meet, to be named Gateway Park. Two blocks at the triangle-shaped “point” will be joined by closing a short section of North 13th Street.

Bancorp South has agreed to donate the larger portion of land, now called Harwood Park, to create Gateway Park. Current owners of the “point” portion, Richard and Rick Griffin, also will donate their property.

The team behind the park is the nonprofit organization 64.6 Downtown, which will own the park as it is created, then convey ownership to the City of Fort Smith.

Rick Griffin, a leader in 64.6 Downtown, estimated it will be a three-year project.

View from the southwest, also courtesy of Studio 6 Architects.

Studio 6 Architects Inc. will donate design services. Funds to create the statue will come from donations from the public – citizens, businesses and organizations, as was the case for the Reeves and Darby statues.

Jim Spears, retired 12th Circuit District judge, is a member of 64.6 Downtown who was a leader in the Reeves statue project. He has suggested the same sculptor, Harold T. Holden.

Parker’s depiction has yet to be determined, Spears said, but he is in favor of a standing figure of the judge with a couple of children. This idea is based on historical anecdotes that Parker carried candy in his pockets for children, Spears said. Besides his 21 years on the bench of the Federal Court for the Western District of Arkansas, Parker was an influential citizen concerned with improving the education and civic life of the people of Fort Smith. The park also will have a plaza with flagpoles for the U.S., Arkansas and Fort Smith flags, he said.

November 2017

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Donation of new museum exhibit focuses on vision o you see more clearly this way or that way? One or two? Dr. Mike Linimon has been asking that classic question of patients for 51 years and now is sharing a timeline of optometry in an exhibit he has created at the Fort Smith Museum of History.

The exhibit on the second floor joins a row of “storefront” exhibits about long-time Fort Smith businesses and trades such as the Boston Store, the Goldman Hotel, the recent “On the Air” radio station exhibit and others.

Although no one living will remember having an eye exam with a circa 1900 model phoropter, two other such instruments dating from nearer the time Linimon began his practice in 1966 and a 1990s model will be more familiar.

One young visitor, Jaseir Posey, stepped into the new exhibit in excitement to say that he recognized the purpose of the antique phoropter because he had been to the eye doctor that very day with his mother, LaToyia Sewell-Posey, and 6-year-old brother, Javein.

Linimon and the brothers had a good talk about Jaseir’s eye exam and what kind of glasses he may choose to wear. Linimon, who will fully retire this month, has already given his first talk to an elementary class visiting the museum and plans to be available to speak to other groups, especially of children.

D

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November 2017

He credits adult mentors from his youth for encouraging him to be the first college graduate in his family and for the suggestion to take to become a doctor of optometry.

Linimon notes he was born on the third baseline of the former Andrews Field because his family lived in the caretaker’s cottage there. His father was the caretaker.

As he is a veteran of the Air Force, he plans to return there, because the Fort Smith National Cemetery expanded to include the former baseball stadium. “I’ll probably be the only person who was born there and buried there,” he quipped.

The oldest optometric instruments in the exhibit came from Dr. William H. Wood, whose practice Linimon joined in 1968 and purchased in 1969. The older instruments had belonged to early opthalmologist Dr. J.H. Chapman. That office was in the First National Bank building.

Linimon then built a new clinic on North 6th Street in 1973 and later established a Greenwood office, as well.

A display case in the exhibit holds examples of eyeglasses from gold-frame, rimless spectacles to mid-century plastic cat-eye frames for ladies.

An opening reception from 2-4 p.m. Nov. 18 will celebrate the new exhibit. The Fort Smith Museum of History is located at 320 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith.

Dr. Mike Linimon of Fort Smith, seated at vintage eye care equipment with a Gray’s Anatomy and mid-century eye chart, created the exhibit with his collection of equipment dating from1900.

Lenses had to be placed by hand into this circa 1900 phoropter, Linimon demonstrated.

A modern phoropter instrument in the exhibit.

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ART NEWS

Artists who teach: Cialone, Mayser featured at the Center for Art & Education In November, the Center for Art & Education in Van Buren will present an exhibit by an artist who is a teacher and a class taught by an artist who normally only exhibits.

Ernest Cialone, an associate professor of art at the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith will bring the classroom to the CAE Main Gallery.

This body of work relates to the classes that Cialone has taught, from art foundations class to upper-level figure drawing. Cialone wants to show the connection between what is learned in a classroom and the finished product of a practicing artist.

An opening reception for the exhibit is 1-4 p.m. Nov. 5.

Frequent exhibitor Julie Mayser will teach a two-day Studio Art Workshop for beginning to intermediate level artists. Classes will introduce students to the techniques of drawing, color, value composition and more. Mayser will lead the class by demonstrating in pastel, but students may work in other mediums, if they choose.

Mayser is an accomplished, award-winning pastel artist who also regularly conducts workshops. Tuition is $75 for the two-day workshop, to be held Nov. 10-11 The Center for Art and Education is located at 104 North 13th Street, Van Buren. An Imagine Capital Campaign is ongoing to move the center to a new location in the 400 block of Main Street with expanded gallery space and classrooms.

A half-block area behind the building will be converted to a landscaped park, sculpture garden and outside events area for the CAE and community. More about the campaign and details of the plans for the new Main Street center can be found online at art-ed.org.

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Entertainment Fort Smith

November 2017

Ernest Cialone

In the CAE Studio Gallery, Larry Millican, Elisa Cossey and Erica Johnson come together to create a show of light and shadow. Each artists bring a different type of art: Millican's photography, art glass work by Cossey and paintings by Johnson. An opening reception is from 1-4 p.m. on Nov. 5.

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ART NEWS

Meluso is named executive director at Fort Smith Regional Art Museum A new leader has been named at the Fort Smith Regional Art Museum.

Louis Meluso will become executive director on Nov. 1.

Meluso brings with him more than 16 years of museum management experience. He began his career working in the Photography Department at the J. Paul Getty Museum in Los Angeles and, from there, held a 13-year tenure as Head of Imaging at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art in Kansas City.

For the last four years, Meluso has been serving as the director of Imaging Technology at the Art Institute of Chicago, a position where he led teams focused on creating engaging visitor gallery experiences, developed scholarly online publications and provided oversight of staffing and budgets.

A volunteer board of directors oversees the nonprofit museum. Fort Smith Regional Art Museum, open with daily free admission, is located at 1601 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith.

Julie Mayser

Left, Bridges, by Erica Johnson.

Above, A bowl by Elissa Cossey

Above, Falling Waters, a photograph by Larry Millican

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DESIGNER NOTES

Natural Treasures are waiting to be found

N

atural Treasures is a jewel of a store nestled among the shops in historic downtown Van Buren. Owner Selena Lee came up with the thought to open a store that provided natural products, as well as items made from local artisans, a few years ago.

Starting out with an online business, she quickly realized she needed a permanent location. She opened her the store in July 2016.

“The idea of opening my own store came to me five years ago. The Lord said for me to do it, so I did – even though it took me way out of my comfort zone. The kids had moved out of the house and I needed something to do with myself.

“Throughout our lives, my family has suffered from sensitive skin,” she said. “My son Josh pointed out that I had always been on the lookout for natural skin care products. Since I know a lot about these products from the many years of researching, I chose to start selling the popular Farmhouse Fresh and Indigo Wild online and it took off from there.”

Since opening last year, Natural Treasures has evolved because of customer demand.

“My customers wanted more than just natural skin care, bath and body products.

They also wanted natural food choices and household items,” she said.

Selena started adding items like Gourmet Gardens syrups, preserves, jams, and salsas.

Soon., she was offering the popular and 22

Entertainment Fort Smith

November 2017

Owner Selena Lee discovered natural skin products by using them herself.

delicious Wind and Willow mixes and dips, as well as bread dip seasonings by Rosa Maria Blend. Beautiful Acacia hardwood platters, dip trays, wooden bowls and spoons are available to accompany the choices of dips.

She carries one-of-a-kind pottery made by her son Kody Lee. There also are handpainted tea towels, happy camper hats, vintage tin signs and Happy Wax all-natural soy wax melts.

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DESIGNER NOTES When customers walk in, the first thing they will notice is a bathtub filled with duck soaps for kids or for the young at heart.

Fizzers and shower bursts are aromatherapy for the shower.

Wall displays are filled with products such as a unisex perfume, hand and body lotions

by Inis from Ireland.

Colorful makeup bags and grooming kits and sparkling pepper spray from Blingsting Safety products are just a few of the finds that are unique to Natural Treasures.

Throughout the store, customers will discover skin care products by SeneGence and Farmhouse Fresh, bath bombs by Musee, Beekman soaps, lotions and hand salves and a true favorite, vintage lip balm in a little slider tin and the roller lip potion by Tinte Cosmetics is available for all ’80s lip balm and gloss fans.

Men won’t miss out on a shopping venture to Natural Treasures. Selena offers the popular Stanley vacuum steel growler mug and the classic series in large and extra large.

“We have all their new designs.”

“My goal was to bring something to Van Buren that it didn’t have,” she said. “I want to make every person who comes in the store feel like they have value and that they matter.

That’s what the Lord asked me to do and I hope I’m doing a good job.”

Natural Treasures 609 Main Street, Van Buren 479-262-2073 Facebook/Naturaltreasuresbox

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home & garden goodies

Michel Design Works soy candes, hand soaps and moisturizing shea butter bars from Vintage Finds.

Seasonal liqueurs and ciders available at In Good Spirits.

Rustic metal nativity scene with holly berry wreaths found at The Goods.

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home & garden goodies

Pumpkin bread and granola found at Paul’s Meat Market.

Thymes Frasier Fir votive set, reed diffuser and candle found at Now and Then Shoppe.

Handmade artisan baskets from the Fort Smith Regional Art Museum.

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home & garden goodies

Concrete garden statuary available at Neumeier Nursery & Greenhouses.

Primo lump charcoal for grills and smokers found at Luther Stem Pool and Spas.

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home & garden goodies

Rolling Stones, Queen and Billy Joel vinyl found at Revamp’d by Designer Again.

A variety of accent pieces in all shapes, sizes and colors available at Mike's Furniture.

200th anniversary merchandise found at GoFortSmithAR.com.

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WHAT’S COOKING

Make it with Maple Autumn is the perfect time to fall in love with maple syrup. The caramelized flavor of syrup pairs well with other fall flavors, like apples, cinnamon and pumpkin. From spiced syrups to game-day dips, McCormick executive chef Kevan Vetter has tasty ideas for incorporating this fall flavor in dishes throughout the day.

MAPLE BANANA BREAD PANCAKES 2 large ripe bananas 2 eggs 2 tbsp. packed brown sugar 2 tbsp. melted butter 1 tbsp. maple extract 2 tsp. pure vanilla extract 1tsp. McCormick Ground Cinnamon 3/4 cup flour 2 tsp. baking powder

Heat lightly greased griddle or skillet to medium heat.

In large bowl, use potato masher to mash bananas. Add eggs, brown sugar, butter, maple extract, vanilla and cinnamon; mix well. Add flour and baking powder; mix until well blended.

Pour 1/4 cup of batter per pancake onto griddle or skillet. Cook 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown, turning when pancakes begin to bubble.

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WHAT’S COOKING

COCONUT PUMPKIN BREAD PUDDING W/SPICED MAPLE SYRUP Bread Pudding: 2 cans (132⁄3 ounces each) Thai Kitchen coconut milk 4 eggs, lightly beaten 1 cup sugar 1 cup canned pumpkin 1 tbsp. pumpkin pie spice 1 tbsp. vanilla extract 8 cups cubed challah bread or cubed French or Italian bread 1 cup flaked coconut 1 cup chopped pecans Spiced Maple Syrup: 1 cup maple syrup 1 tsp. vanilla extract 1/4 tsp. pumpkin pie spice Heat oven to 350 degrees.

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Bread Pudding: Pour coconut milk into large bowl. Stir with wire whisk until smooth.

Add eggs, sugar, pumpkin, pumpkin pie spice and vanilla; mix until well blended. Add bread cubes; toss to coat well.

Pour into greased 13-by-9-inch baking dish. Let stand 10 minutes. Sprinkle evenly with coconut and pecans. Bake 35-40 minutes, or until knife inserted in center comes out clean. Cool slightly on wire rack.

Spiced Maple Syrup: Mix syrup, vanilla extract and pumpkin pie spice in microwavable bowl or measuring cup.

Microwave on high 1 minute, or until warm, stirring once. Serve with bread pudding.

Entertainment Fort Smith

November 2017

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WHAT’S COOKING

MAPLE APPLE GRILLED CHEESE 1/4 cup maple syrup 1/4 tsp. apple pie spice 3 tbsp. butter 8 slices whole-wheat bread 8 slices sharp cheddar cheese 1 medium Golden Delicious apple, cored and cut into 16 thin slices 4 slices cooked bacon, coarsely chopped Mix maple syrup and apple pie spice. Set aside. Butter one side of each bread slice. Layer two slices of cheese and four slices of apple on each bread slice with buttered side down. Sprinkle with chopped bacon then drizzle with maple syrup mixture. Top with remaining bread slices with buttered side up.

Place sandwiches in large skillet or griddle on medium-low heat.

Cook 3-4 minutes per side, or until bread is browned and cheese is melted. Cook in batches, if necessary.

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A lazy gardener becomes

An Accidental Birder

t was one of those rare, warm sunshine-filled autumn mornings, while enjoying my morning tea, that I realized I had become an accidental birder. As a lifelong gardener, I have always enjoyed the company of wildlife. On this morning, I realized I was having a conversation with a mockingbird that was perched on a limb in a tree near my hammock.

In response to the seemingly endless playlist of this longtime visitor, I found myself repeating the warbling to the best of my untrained ability and adding my personal touch.

Was it wishful thinking or were this bird and I having a conversation?

I have become familiar with bird songs or calls over the years, often hearing them way before seeing them. I discovered the (audible) Macaulay Library of Birds Songs is online. I am now attending the Cornell University Lab of Ornithology “How to be a Better Birder” course that can train me, for free, how to recognize and identify birds and their songs.

I

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There, I learned that my cardinals, the fifth generation to live in my yard, can sing more pitches than can be played on a piano.

I also learned that songbirds, like people, have regional accents. A cardinal in New York will sound different than the one in my yard, who has the bird version of a Southern twang. As nestlings, birds listen closely to their fellow birds and commit these songs to memory. They practice as they grow, eventually getting it pitch perfect.

So why do I call myself an accidental birder? Because many of the changes I have made to my yard over time have been accidentally fortuitous to attracting birds, as well as other wildlife.

I became a lazier gardener. Yes, let your grass grow a little higher, leave some leaves and let an area of your yard get a little wild. If there is a dead tree (not near your house, of course), let it be. They are great for nesting.

Stop the madness of chemical yard sprays. Would you sacrifice birds and other wildlife to get rid a few dandelions?

Higher grass and leaf cover allow insect larvae, worms and other creatures to flourish and create a protein source for ground-feeding birds.

The “wild areas” will attract birds and other beneficial creatures.

Take the money you save from your lawn service and sprays and look into adding native plants to your landscape. The symbiotic relationship between native plants and native wildlife is fascinating and undeniable.

Many bird species depend on a particular bush or flower to produce food at a particular time in order to perpetuate their species. At first, I accidentally helped birds by growing native plants, including Beauty Berry, flowering sages, Black-eyed Susan, coneflowers and milkweed, a host plant for the Monarch butterfly. Gasp! I even let Poke Berry grow – the birds love it. Let these plants go to seed in your yard to give birds a great reason to visit all winter.

Birds need drinking water and love to splash to clean themselves.

Providing a bird bath can be as easy as putting a shallow pan on a rock.

Make sure to clean it and replace the water regularly.

I recently spoke to the regional director of National Audubon Society’s Mississippi –South region and Arkansas Audubon Society board member, Jack Stewart of Jasper, Ark. His wife, Pam, also is a member. They want everyone to go a little wild.

“Our vision is to become the largest bird sanctuary in the U.S., with many yards providing resting, nesting and feeding places for resident and migratory birds, providing bridges connecting to the local ecosystems, which are increasingly fragmented by development,” she said. Participants obtain a Bird Friendly Yard Certification on Arkansas Audubon website.

Many years ago, I became an accidental soldier in one of the longest battles of urban America: human against squirrel. Yes, I decided I would buy a bird feeder. Visions of beautiful feathered visitors danced in my head as I giddily purchased a lovely feeder and suspended it from a tree. With premium bird seed, I unintentionally created a master race of squirrels.

Each new bird feeder with its baffles and bells and whistles meant to deter the squirrels was only a crash course for each new generation of squirrel adolescents in “How to Become a Better Bird Feeder Bandit 101.”

It was a battle I lost and that is when I truly started to plant native plants to preserve my wild birds. I now watch birds with great joy as they eat from native plants, build their nests and raise their young. Whether you choose to start very small, just looking out your window, or go full throttle with birding expeditions, you will be helping yourself mentally and physically, as well as helping our fellow species. No special equipment is required – just a interested heart and mind.

– Reba Mise

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All photos by Reba’s friend Steven Hendricks. Clockwise from top left: Mockingbird, a Barn Swallow feeding its babies, a Hairy Woodpecker; Titmouse on a branch and three Juncos on an old barn beam. Opposite, a Cardinal.

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New camper cabins pop up in Arkansas state parks

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rkansas state parks can now offer visitors a camping experience without the stress of setting up camp or buying equipment – and with some of the comforts of home.

Lake Ouachita State Park in Mountain Pine opened camper cabins last year and Devil’s Den State Park has just followed suit. There are four new cabins at Lake Ouachita and six at Devil’s Den. Arkansas State Parks’ visitors have an opportunity to camp without “roughing it.”

“These camper cabins let visitors experience Arkansas State Parks in a unique and comfortable environment,” Arkansas State Parks director Grady Spann said. “It gives the camper the comforts of a cabin while still enjoying the campground atmosphere in our beautiful state parks.”

The design of the camper cabins address two of camping’s biggest issues: the weather and pesky bugs. The new cabins are simple but equipped with heating, air conditioning and a ceiling fan. Each has a screened-in porch outfitted with comfortable deck chairs where campers can relax and enjoy the view.

Inside, the cabins offer a queen bed, bunk beds and a bench dining table. Guests bring own linens.

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Hate bugs? The screened porches of the simple camper cabins offer the great outdoors without a great many of its buggy pests.

Photos by Joseph Jacobs of Arkansas State Parks.

with a paved, accessible path. Each bathhouse has four private units, each with its own shower and toilet, so a parent or both parents can take in all the kids, lock the door and clean up the whole crew. They are not segregated into a men’s or women’s.

At $60 (plus tax) a night, these affordable cabins give guests an opportunity to connect with the outdoors and come back “home” to comfort. They are also dog-friendly.

Lake Ouachita State Park superintendent Lee Howard said, “Camper cabins are like having a hotel room in a campground with many of the comforts and security of home.”

Special care was taken at Devil’s Den State Park near West Fork, where its history of being built by young men of the Civilian Conservation Corps is proudly preserved and celebrated. A stay at one of the 1930s-era cabins is memorable and they’re always in demand.

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Adding six new camper cabins allows guests another way to stay overnight, under a roof.

One of the camper cabins is ADA accessible.

Great care was taken in each park, particularly Devil’s Den, to locate the cabins in the spirit of the original park design. On the screen porch side, each seems as private as the original cabins.

“We knew we needed something lower than a cabin, but more than a campsite,” said Joseph Jacob, a marketing and revenue manager with Arkansas State Parks.

These little jewels seem to fit the bill.

At Devil’s Den, above, the screen porch of one camper cabin faces tranquil woods.

The camper cabin at left is at Lake Ouachita. It’s representative, with its wall unit climate system, a queensized bed and two bunks and a dining table. The rest of the fun is all outdoors. All cabins are dog-friendly.

Photos and information courtesy of Arkansas State Parks arkansasstateparks.com Each cabin has its own picnic table and grill, with a lantern-hanger for convenience. All are designed for indoor sleeping and outdoor cooking. Near the cabin is a fourunit bathhouse, offering privacy and convenience.

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DESIGNER NOTES

Owners Tiffany (left) and Abby Parker

Get in vogue at ReVamp’d by Designer Again

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esigner Again Consignment has been a downtown Fort Smith staple for almost 30 years. Owner Tiffany Parker has built a business where people can sell gently used clothes, shoes, homewares and much more. Tiffany has always used creative advertising by having her daughter Abby model in her ads. From a young age, Abby has been the face of Designer Again and now she’s branching out on her own in her own store, ReVamp’d by Designer Again.

Abby’s eclectic interests are visible from the parking lot, as there often is something cool outside to catch the eye.

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Her flair for acquiring and displaying her own style of clothing and collectibles is evident inside the door in the spacious main showroom.

Her arrangements of vintage shirts, jeans, shoes, purses, jewelry, books, handmade candles, furniture and artwork are striking.

All items in the store are selected by Abby from Designer Again consigners or sources she has discovered on her own. She also designs her own original pillows and T-shirts, reasonably priced for their one-of-a-kind look.

A series of rooms in ReVamp’d each has a distinctive theme. The record room, with hundreds of vintage to new vinyl albums and

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DESIGNER NOTES

Vintage vinyl in the ReVamp’d record room.

singles, is very popular. Customers flip through the alphabetized records while remembering the first time they heard “that” song from “that” artist at a certain time in their lives.

“I’m a collector and I have traveled to different cities looking for things that I like and that I think are cool,” Abby said.

“There is a difference between Designer Again and ReVamp’d,” she said. “Every customer can find something they like from both stores but ReVamp’d targets a different customer – like a collector or a younger group of people. This store is my style, my language.

“Using old stuff and making them new again is fun for me and hopefully, exciting for my customers.” she said. “I’ve always had a different, crazy kind of style and when I was younger, I felt out of place. I want my customers to come in and feel like they’ve found their place.”

Abby will happily volunteer to be a personal stylist in ReVamp’d, if asked. Some shoppers let her pick out a look they describe or even didn’t know they needed until Abby brought it to their attention.

“One time, we were in Fayetteville and a girl commented on Abby’s clothing,” Tiffany said.

“Abby encouraged her to be herself and be different than everyone else.

“The next weekend, the girl and her mother showed up at ReVamp’d and let Abby help her shop. It really was neat to watch Abby inspire others to be themselves.”

ReVamp’d by Designer Again 218 Towson Avenue, Fort Smith 479-434-4300 November 2017

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health & beauty goodies

Statement necklace with matching earrings and bangles found at Jo Waite Interiors & Construction.

Heather gray shirt under a green knit pullover and corduroy pants available at Katiebug’s.

Gold, tapered jacket paired with gold necklace and black knee-high boots from This ‘N That Shoppe.

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health & beauty goodies SoundGear Custom Fit electronic hearing protection and enhancement products for ear protection available at Center for Hearing.

14k gold and diamond stacking bracelets by Vahan available at Newton’s Jewelers.

Whimsical Christmas mugs from Firefly Boutique and triple-milled shimmer beauty bar and detox purifying bar found at Natural Treasures.

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health & beauty goodies

Matrix Total Results products found at Vanity Calls.

Watercolored velour jacket with tassel earrings found at Clothologie.

New sunwear from the Caviar Collection found at Dr. Steven Stiles Eye Group.

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health & beauty goodies

Sterling silver and cultured pearl bracelets from Polka Dotted Zebra available in small (birth to 12 months) and medium (1-2 years).

Hobo Meridian suede bag with tassel and vintage hide wallet found at Fashion Boutique.

Hoka running shoes available at True Grit Running.

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health & beauty goodies Pumpkin facial products found at Gambill Medi-Spa.

Black leather vest and 11x7, embroidered Born To Be Free eagle patch from Old Dog Leather.

Aveda Color Conserve hair products available at Metropolis Hair Studio.

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MUSIC

& performance

Nov. 4 True Grit and Grind Burlesque: Halloween Hangover True Grit and Grind Burlesque has been rocking the River Valley since 2013 and hosts their second annual Halloween Hangover show. $8. 10 p.m.-1 a.m. Old Town Grain & Feed, 503 Garrison Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-651-9986 Facebook/TrueGritandGrind Nov. 6 UAFS Opera and Musical Theatre Fall Scenes Program The UAFS Department of Music Opera and Musical Theatre Workshop ensemble, under the direction of Dr. Elizabeth Momand, present scenes from Mozart’s opera The Marriage of Figaro and Andrew Lippa’s musical The Addams Family. Free. 7:30-9 p.m. UAFS Breedlove Auditorium, 5210 Grand Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-7540

Pedal Punk is a cycling circus NOV

Cirque Mechanics is a premiere American circus, with a unique approach to performance, inspiring storytelling and innovative mechanical staging. Spectacle Magazine hailed it as “The greatest contribution to the American circus since Cirque du Soleil”. The show, rooted in realism, displays a raw quality, rarely found in modern circuses, that makes their message timeless and relevant. Part of UAFS Season of Entertainment 36. $25-$27. 7:30 p.m. ArcBest Performing Arts Center, 55 South 7th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-7300 tickets.uafs.edu

Nov. 9-12, 15-18 The Odd Couple Unger and Madison, the slob and the neatnik, are at it again, but this time they are Olive and Florence, two women, clashing in one of playwright Neil Simon’s most hilarious comedies. Eric Wells directs. Tickets: Nov. 9 gala, $27; other dates, $12. 7:30 p.m. evenings; 2 p.m. Nov. 12. Fort Smith Little Theatre, 401 North 6th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-2966 fsltorg

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Nov. 1 AACLIVE: Town Mountain Artist, Audience and Community Live! presents Town Mountain, a hard-drivin’ Carolina string band that has earned raves for their raw and soulful sound, their inhouse songwriting and a honky-tonk edge. The hearty base of their music is the bluegrass triumvirate of Monroe, Flatt and Scruggs, but the band also has wide-ranging influences – from Jerry Garcia to Willie, Waylon and Merle. $40. 7:30 p.m. 801 Media Center, 801 North A Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-719-8931 aaclive.com Nov. 4 TJ’s Guitar Program Fundraiser To support the TJ Cunningham Guitar Program at the Fort Smith Boys and Girls Club, the Rain Kings and the Dodging Bullets All Star Band perform for a party with a meal, cash bar and silent auction prizes. The guitar program provides lessons and instruments to young musicians. Tickets $40, by phone. 6:30-11 p.m. Fianna Hills Country Club, 1 Essex Place, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-646-5134 fiannahillscountryclub.com

Nov. 7-12 White Christmas, The Musical The timeless movie “White Christmas” is adapted for the stage in a lavish new production. Irving Berlin’s White Christmas tells the story of a song-and-dance team putting on a show in a magical Vermont inn and falling for a stunning sister act in the process. Full of dancing, laughter and some of the most sentimental songs ever written. Prices vary. Eight performances.

Walton Arts Center, 495 West Dickson Street, Fayetteville, Ark. 479-443-5600 waltonartscenter.org

Nov. 4 Cuando Tenga La Tierra: Latin American Music and its Protest Song Local and world-renowned talent will combine to perform a concert of Latin American music at UAFS. The concert of traditional Latin American songs and key pieces of the repertoire known as “protest songs” is related to the course “The Social and Protest Song in Spanish” taught by Dr. Rosario Nolasco-Schultheiss, assistant professor of world languages. Dutch flautist and vocalist Francine van Dam will be joined by guitarist William Reyes, Andrew Thompson on bass and Symphony of Northwest Arkansas percussionist Fernando Valencia. Studio art students Jessica Medeiros and Nathan Myers are designing a backdrop to complement the “immediacy and transient quality of the sound” for the concert, according to Don Lee, associate professor of art. The concert will close a Spanish Teachers Symposium held at UAFS. Sponsored by the Windgate Charitable Foundation and the World Languages and Art Departments. Free. 3 p.m. UAFS Windgate Art & Design, 535 North Waldron Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-7970

Nov. 15 An Exclusive Acoustic Evening with John Oates featuring David Starr To benefit the Frank and Barbara Broyles Foundation, Fayetteville native David Starr and headliner John Oates will perform a special acoustic concert with cocktails, hors d’oeuvre, great music, an opportunity to meet the artists and a signed copy of Oates’ new memoir. Oates has been a frequent collaborator with singer/songwriter David Starr John Oates Starr and produced and arranged Starr’s 2017 release “The Head and the Heart.” Songwriter Hall of Fame and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame member Oates was inducted with Daryl Hall as the act Hall & Oates, for whom he was a guitarist, vocalist and co-songwriter. Oates and Starr both live in Colorado, where Starr operates Starrs Guitars in Cedaredge, Colo., and tours the United States, Canada and the U.K. playing festivals and house concerts. The Broyles Foundation helps caregivers of Alzheimer’s Disease patients and advocates for compassionate care for patients. $75. 6 p.m. Walton Arts Center Starr Theater, 495 West Dickson Street, Fayetteville, Ark. 479-443-5600 waltonartscenter.org November 2017 Entertainment Fort Smith 45

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MUSIC & PERFORMANCE Nov. 20 UAFS Campus Lighting Enjoy the moment the sparkling holiday lighting displays are switched on at the University of ArkansasFort Smith campus, with refreshments and musical entertainment. Free. 7 p.m. UAFS Bell Tower, 5210 Grand Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-7000

UAFS Jazz Nov. 16 UAFS Jazz Concert The UAFS Jazz Band and Jazz Catz give a fall concert of blues, contemporary pop, country and jazz featuring songs by Frank Sinatra, Hank Williams, Michael Buble, The Beatles, Bob Mintzer and Count Basie. Rick Endel, a first call pianist in the region for more than 30 years, is a featured guest artist. Don Bailey, director of the Jazz Cats, said the vocal group has a ‘Hooked on 4 Chords’ medley of hits from the past 50 years that will rock the crowd. Part of Season of Entertainment 36. $8; free to students and UAFS staff. 7:30 p.m., ArcBest Performing Arts Center, 55 South 7th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-788-7300 tickets.uafs.edu Nov. 16 Old Crow Medicine Show performing Blonde on Blonde Old Crow Medicine Show started out by busking on street corners, winning audiences from New York to Nashville. Since then, the band has been inducted to the Grand Ole Opry, won two Grammy Awards and sold more than a million copies of their Platinum single “Wagon Wheel.” This concert of the band’s 2017 album, “50 Years of Blonde On Blonde,” is a reimagined version of Bob Dylan’s classic album. The band explores new territory while paying homage to one of its biggest influences. Tickets $40; $50. 7 p.m. Walton Arts Center, 495 West Dickson Street, Fayetteville, Ark. 479-443-5600 waltonartscenter.org Nov. 16-18 The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee Van Buren High School Theatre presents this musical comedy in which middle school students compete to be the last speller standing. The competitors are quirky and songs give a glimpse of their inner lives, conflicts and distractions. The adult bee officials are even stranger and reveal their own surprising backstories. The audience may be called upon to compete against the cast. Tickets, $10, may be reserved by phone or online. 7 p.m Van Buren Center for Fine Arts, Van Buren High School, 2001 Pointer Trail, Van Buren, Ark. 479-471-4017 centerforfinearts.org Nov. 17-18 CSA Production of Willy Wonka, JR Presented by the Community School of the Arts Children’s Theatre Company. A cast of 30 children sing, dance and act the familiar Roald Dahl’s tale of a boy who wins a golden ticket to a magical candy factory.

Led by director Thesa Loving and musical director Sheila Mann. 7 p.m. Nov. 17; 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Nov. 18. Groups, season or single tickets available. Ticket prices vary. 7 p.m.-8:30 p.m. King Opera House, 427 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-434-2020 csafortsmith.org 46 Entertainment Fort Smith November 2017

Martina McBride Nov. 26 Martina McBride Christmas Tour The popular country artist’s holiday show is a beautiful visual production with McBride performing classic, beloved Christmas music as well as hits from her 25year career, such as “Independence Day,” “Concrete Angel” and “A Broken Wing.” Tickets range from $40$50 seating to VIP packages of preferred seating, souvenirs, refreshments and meeting the artist. 7:30 p.m.

Fort Smith Convention Center, Rogers Avenue and South 9th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-7300 uafs.universitytickets.edu Nov. 29 UAFS Season’s Greetings Concert Performances of favorite holiday hits by the UAFS Symphonic Band, Choral Ensembles, Jazz Catz and guests. Free but tickets are required. 7 p.m. ArcBest Performing Arts Center, 55 South 7th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-7300 uafs.universitytickets.edu Nov. 30 Joe Bonamassa Grammy-nominated blues-rock guitarist Joe Bonamassa in concert, backed by legendary musicians including Anton Fig, Michael Rhodes, Reese Wynans, Lee Thornburg, Paulie Cerra and back up vocalists. $128. 8 p.m. Walton Arts Center, 495 West Dickson Street, Fayetteville, Ark. 479-443-5600 waltonartscenter.org Nov. 30-Dec. 3 A Christmas Carol Set in 1843, this adaptation of Dickens’ brilliant storytelling features stirring performances by a cast of 45 actors, period costumes and unique arrangements of traditional and original Christmas carols. It is the beautiful story of one fateful night when Scrooge finds hope, redemption and the true spirit of Christmas that transforms his life. This is the seventh annual production of the play by Earthen Vessels Drama Co., a ministry of Shady Grove Baptist Church of Van Buren., Advance tickets available Nov. 1 at Solid Rock Book Store and Seubold Chiropractic Clinic, Fort Smith; Sweet Bay Coffee Shop and Farmer’s Co-op, Van Buren, or online. King Opera House, 407 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-276-5505 evdrama.com

Nov. 30-Dec. 3 Emma – A Pop Musical Emma, a senior at Highbury Prep, is certain she knows what’s best for her classmates’ love lives.

She’s determined to find the perfect boyfriend for shy sophomore Harriet.

But will Emma’s relentless matchmaking get in the way of finding her own happiness? Based on Jane Austen’s classic novel, this sparkling new musical features the hit songs of legendary girl groups and iconic female singers from The Supremes to Katy Perry. Presented by the Alma Performing Arts. $10-$15. 7 p.m. Nov. 30; 7 p.m. Dec. 2 and 2 p.m. Dec. 3. Alma Performing Arts Center, 103 East Main, Alma, Ark. 479-632-2129 almapac.org Dec. 1 Under the Streetlamp: Hip to the Holidays Under the Streetlamp is a concert celebration of classic hits of the American radio songbook from the 1950s-1970s featuring tight harmonies and slick dance moves that take audiences back to an era of sharkskin suits, flashy cars and martini shakers. $35$55. 6 p.m. Temple Live, 200 North 11th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. templelive.com

Dec. 2 Fort Smith Symphony: An Epic Christmas For the holidays, the Fort Smith Symphony’s Christmas guest artists include saxophonist Don Bailey, Fort Smith Symphony principal clarinetist Andrew DeBoer, vocalist Jeffrey Murdock, and members of the Western Arkansas Ballet. A special feature will be music from the Trans Siberian Orchestra performed by “JOLT,” the symphony’s electronic quartet, and spectacular film scores from the films “The Ten Commandments” and “Ben-Hur.” Adults $45, $40; students $17, $22. 7:30 p.m. ArcBest Performing Arts Center, 55 South 7th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-7575 fortsmithsymphony.org Dec. 7 Alvin Youngblood Hart’s Muscle Theory Grammy winner Alvin Youngblood Hart is known as one of the foremost practitioners of country blues. He is also known as a faithful torchbearer for 1960s and 1970s guitar rock as well as Western Swing and vintage country. His music has been compared to diverse artists from Lead Belly to Spade Cooley. He plays acoustic and electric guitar, as well as banjo and mandolin. Hart has appeared at the Riverfront Blues Festival and Blues in the Schools. In 2003, Hart’s album “Down in the Alley” was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Traditional Blues Album. In 2005, Hart received a Grammy Award for his contribution to “Beautiful Dreamer – The Songs of Stephen Foster.” $40, online. 7:30 p.m. Artist, Audience and Community Live!, 801 North A Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-719-8931 artistaudiencecommunitylive.com

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MUSIC & PERFORMANCE Dec. 7-9 An Old-Time Radio Christmas Enjoy the songs and stories of the holidays, presented as if heard by a family huddled around the radio. Head back to the good old days for some old-fashioned Christmas Joy. Directed by Jill Ledbetter. $5 at the door for this off-season show. 7:30 p.m. Fort Smith Little Theatre, 401 North 6th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-2966 fslt.org

‘Keyboards’ ensemble Dec. 8 Keyboards at Christmas Keyboards At Christmas includes traditional Christmas music presented in a variety of piano and choral arrangements, including performances by special guests Dr. Rosilee Walker Russell and Gini Law. Free.

6:30 p.m. Oak Cliff Baptist Church, 3701 South Gary, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-646-3891 KeyboardsAtChristmas.com Annie Moses Band

Dec. 9 Annie Moses Band The Annie Moses Band has been inspiring and entertaining audiences for over a decade. A captivating blend of folk and classical, the Annie Moses Band is a talented ensemble of songwriters, singers and musicians, combining technical skill with exhilarating showmanship. The band’s innovative sound has delighted audiences around the world in record breaking numbers of airings on PBS and on stages as diverse as Carnegie Hall and the Grand Ole Opry. The members of the band also are siblings. $20-$35. 8 p.m.

Alma Performing Arts Center, 103 East Main, Alma, Ark. 479-63-22129 almapac.org Dec. 9 Mooseltoe The Musical Mooseltoe is the charming story about a Moose who wants to fly with Santa’s reindeer. Mooseltoe sets out to find the great wise Mooseking for advice, and along the way meets a variety of characters and learns life lessons. Meanwhile, back at the North Pole, there’s trouble. Will Mooseltoe save Christmas? $18 adults; $14 children 12 and under. 7 p.m. Greenwood Performing Arts Center, 515 East Gary Street, Greenwood, Ark. 479-996-4142 etix.com

NPR Affiliate for over 30 years

Submit events Music and performance events can be reported by the venue or presenter at efortsmith.com under the tab “Add Event.” Advertising is also available.

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calendar of events Nov. 1 NaNoWriMo Kickoff Party Teens in junior and senior high are invited to attend the Kick-Off Party, where they can sign up as an official participant and pick up free NaNoWriMo swag. All official participants will receive exclusive content, resources and special “Participant Perks” for the entire month. Drop in from 3-6 p.m. to sign up, and stay for the Exquisite Corpse Group Writing Exercise and Meet and Greet from 3:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229

Nov. 1-13 Community School of the Arts Private Lessons Enrollment is open for five weeks of lessons before the holidays. Students ages 3 to adult can take private instruction in piano, voice, guitar, drums, woodwinds, brass and strings or dance, acting and visual art. Call or go online to register. St. Bartholomew's Episcopal Church, 2701 Old Greenwood Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-434-2020 csafortsmith.org

Book Signing with Children’s Writer and Illustrator David Catrow NOVEMBER

Children’s book enthusiasts of all ages are invited to this special author event with writer and illustrator David Catrow. Primarily a writer and illustrator of books for children, Catrow has more than 70 published works in print. “Stand Tall Molly Lou Melon” received the Arkansas Diamond Primary Honor Book in 2004. He has several New York Times best sellers and two New York Times Best Illustrated Books. In addition to his publishing work, he has worked extensively in film/TV, spending more than a year creating the visual development for films such as “Horton Hears a Who,” “Despicable Me” and others. In addition, he has done development work adapting the animated “Stuart Little” for television, as well as on the animated television series “Plantzilla,” which was based on the popular children’s books written by Jerdine Nolen. His syndicated editorial cartoons have run in more than 1,000 newspapers across Canada and the United States. The focus of Catrow’s talk and drawing presentation is that we are all artists. Take your friends and family to meet David Catrow – perhaps you will discover your inner artist. Books will be available for sale and signing. This library event was made possible by the Fort Smith Public Schools. Free. 6-7 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229

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Nov. 1-30 Beauty and the Beast Enrollment Community School of the Arts is enrolling students for a March production of the musical “Beauty and the Beast.” Students in grades 7 through age 21 may enroll. No previous theater experience is required.

All who enroll be cast into the show.

Auditions will determine the casting of roles. Auditions for roles will be held Nov. 30 from 6-9 p.m. and Dec. 2 from 1-4 p.m. The production will be led by Thesa Loving, Gini Law and Jennifer Woodside Anderson. Call or go online for information. $350. St. Bartholomew's Episcopal Church, 2701 Old Greenwood Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-434-2020

Nov. 1-8 Win exCLAUSive Access Win a private meet and greet with Santa at Central Mall for up to 10 guests. Includes 30 minutes with Santa, three deluxe photo packages at the Santa set and other exclusive perks. Go online for more information. Central Mall, 5111 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-1866 centralmallfortsmith.com

Nov. 2 Fizz, Boom, Read and Experiment!

The Youth Services Department, in collaboration with the Fort Smith Public Schools’ preschool program, invites children ages 3 to 6 to participate in a fun, science-filled afternoon. Children are welcome to drop in to join the sciencebased activities, including hands-on learning, story time and experiments. Free.

3:30-5:30 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 Nov. 3 & 17 Chess Club Learn to play chess and play matches with others. Free. 4 p.m. Mulberry Public Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226

Nov. 4 Girl Scout Scouting Outing at MONAH Take Girl Scout troop to the Museum of Native American History for a self-guided audio tour and a scavenger hunt designed especially for each troop's level. All Girl Scout levels are welcome to drop in at any time during museum hours for a unique look at the stories of the First Americans. No advance registration is required.Free. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Museum of Native American History, 202 Southwest O Street, Bentonville, Ark. 479-273-2456 facebook.com/MuseumofNativeAmericanHistory

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It’s

SHOWTIME!

Nov. 1

Nov. 17, 19, 25-26 & Dec. 1-2 In the classic E.B. White story, Wilbur, a little pig with a big heart, becomes famous with the help of his clever friend Charlotte the spider and their chatty animal neighbors. Wilbur, the runt of the litter, struggles to survive from the very beginning, but with the help of his barnyard friends, he becomes the prize-winning pig of the County Fair and the most famous pig ever.

Trike Theatre brings to life the gentle story of friendship, loyalty and truth. $9. Showtimes vary. Walton Arts Center, 495 West Dickson Street, Fayetteville, Ark. 479-443-5600 waltonartscenter.org

Kick off the holiday season with the Southside High School Maverick Theatre as they preview their upcoming musical, Irving Berlin’s “White Christmas.”

Based on the timeless film starring Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye, “White Christmas” tells the funny and heart-warming story of war veterans turned successful Broadway stars, Bob Wallace and Phil Davis, and their adventures when they follow a beautiful sister act to Vermont, only to find out that the lodge where they were to perform is nearly bankrupt. “White Christmas” features such magical Irving Berlin songs as “Blue Skies,” “I Love a Piano” and the holiday classic “White Christmas.” Limited seating. Free. 5-6 p.m.

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

Dec. 1-2

Nov. 17-18

Dec. 9

Presented by the Community School of the Arts Children's Theatre Company, this musical stars 30 children who will sing, dance and act the familiar story of the boy who wins a golden ticket to a magical candy factory. Led by director Thesa Loving and musical director Sheila Mann. Three performances: 7 p.m. Nov. 17; 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Nov. 18. Groups, season or single tickets available. Ticket prices vary. King Opera House, 427 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-434-2020 csafortsmith.org

This charming story is about a Moose who wants to fly with Santa's reindeer. Mooseltoe sets out to find the great wise Mooseking for advice, and along the way meets a variety of characters, all of whom teach Mooseltoe valuable life lessons. Meanwhile, there is trouble at the North Pole. Will Mooseltoe be able to save Christmas? Adults $18; children $14. 7 p.m.

Greenwood Performing Arts Center, 515 East Gary Street, Greenwood, Ark. 479-996-4142 greenwoodk12.com, etix.com

The beloved TV classic soars off the screen and onto the stage with familiar characters Rudolph, Hermey the Elf the Abominable Snow Monster, Yukon Cornelius and Clarice. It’s an adventure that teaches the lesson that what makes you different might be what makes you special. Tickets start at $32. 7 p.m. Dec. 1; 1 and 4 p.m. Dec. 2. Walton Arts Center, 495 West Dickson Street, Fayetteville, Ark. 479-443-5600 waltonartscenter.org

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Nov. 6 Maker Monday: Jewelry Participants will learn to make bracelets and necklaces using the materials provided by the library. Free. 3:30-5 p.m. Dallas Branch Library, 8100 Dallas Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-484-5650 fortsmithlibrary.org Nov. 11-Dec. 16 Paint and Take Participants will create and take home Thanksgiving and Christmas ornaments. Children and adults welcome. $15. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Cre8ive Arts Network, 7408 Buckhorn, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-461-9829 cre8beartsy.com

Nov. 18 The Reaping: A Hunger Games Thanksgiving Teens are invited to celebrate Thanksgiving with a screening of “The Hunger Games” (PG), as well as Capitol-approved snacks, and games. “Tributes” are encouraged to bring canned or other non-perishable food items for the Teen Food Drive during “The Reaping.”

For each food item brought, tributes will earn an entry in a prize drawing. All donations will go to the Community Clearing House. Free. 1 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org

Nov. 10 Owl Prowl Join educator Karen for an easy stroll along Wells Lake and the Beaver Creek Trail. We'll search for, and try to call in, owls – the most famous creatures of the night. Please bring a flashlight for the walk back. Free.

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

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Nov. 19 Sugar Plum Fairy Tea Nutcracker characters host this delightful afternoon of lunch, delectable desserts and snacks and themed crafts. There also will be an opportunity for the children to take photos with the Sugar Plum Fairy, Cavalier, Clara and other Nutcracker cast members. Nutcracker and Christmas items will be available for purchase. All proceeds benefit Western Arkansas Ballet, a 501c3 dance academy and pre-professional company. Tickets are $30 each or $350 for a reserved table of 10. Tickets are available through Nov. 12. 2:30-4:30 p.m. Riverfront Glass Pavilion, 100 North B Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-785-0152 waballet.org

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Nov. 20 Thanksgiving Crafternoon Kids of all ages are invited to this seasonal crafting opportunity. Supplies to create Thanksgiving themed crafts will be available all afternoon for you to make and take home. Free. 1-6 p.m. Dallas Branch Library, 8100 Dallas Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-484-5650

Nov. 20 LEGO Club Kids, tweens and teens are invited to design, create and build unique creations with the LEGO Club. Everyone loves LEGOs; this event is free and supplies are provided – just bring your imagination. 5-6 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229

Nov. 20-Dec. 11 Community School of the Arts Spring Enrollment Classes and lessons in music, theater, dance and visual art for students from preschool through high school and beyond. Spring classes will begin in January. Private lessons are available. Children’s activities are held after school and teen activities are offered early in the evening. CSA instructors are highly trained professionals who love to work with children and youth. Call or go online to register or for questions.

Tuition varies. St. Bartholomew's Episcopal Church, 2701 Old Greenwood Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-434-2020 csafortsmith.org Nov. 25 Magic: The Gathering Newcomers and veterans of the game alike are welcome to come play for fun or practice for upcoming

KIDS EVENTS

tournaments. Magic: The Gathering is card game of strategy and luck using creatures, spells and enchantments to drain an opponent’s life force before they do the same. All ages are welcome at this weekly gathering. Free. 1-4 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229

Nov. 28 Polar Express P.J. Story Time and Movie Children are invited to wear their pajamas to a very special evening story time. Start the night with a reading of “The Polar Express” by Chris Van Allsburg, followed by a fun craft. Those who want to stay after the story time will then be able to watch the movie, while enjoying delicious hot chocolate. Free. 6 p.m. Miller Branch Library, 8701 South 28th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-646-3945 fortsmithlibrary.org Dec. 4 Gingerbread Man Cookie Craft Kids can decorate real, edible gingerbread men cookies to take home. Free. 3:30-4:30 p.m. Dallas Branch Library, 8100 Dallas Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-484-5650

Dec. 8 DIY Bird Feeders Supplemental feeding of wildlife is important, especially in the winter. Join the staff in a discussion of neighborhood birds and then make some do-it-yourself bird feeders at this family event. Registration is required. Free. 6 p.m. River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-3993 rivervalleynaturecenter.com

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

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Nov. 1 Remember World War II A World War II expert will share war-related memorabilia and history. All ages are invited to this special program. Refreshments provided. Free. 4 p.m. Mulberry Public Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226 Nov. 1 Make Sure Your Doctor Treats You Right A program about understanding goals and priorities between families and doctors. Refreshments provided

by Peachtree Hospice. Seating is limited, RSVP by phone. Free. Noon. Donald W. Reynolds Cancer Support House, 3324 South M Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-782-6302 ReynoldsCancerSupportHouse.org Nov. 1-27 Chihuly in the Forest The outdoor exhibit of the sculptural glass works of Dale Chihuly comes to a close. Placed into the woods and water features at Crystal Bridges, these organic shapes seem natural among the living plants. Chihuly in the Forest can be seen daily and in the evenings Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, 600 Museum Way, Bentonville, Ark. 479-418-5700 crystalbridges.org

Veterans Day will be celebrated

by Fort Smith and Van Buren parades Each year, the annual Veterans Day Parade through the Chaffee Crossing Historic District becomes more of a tradition for participants and spectators. Floats, marching bands, military vehicles, representatives of every branch of the U.S. Armed Forces, social and civic clubs are forming a longer parade with each passing year.

NOVEMBER

Nov. 1-30 Miller Branch Exhibit: Jessica Graham The photographs of Jessica Graham will be featured.

The photographer gained photojournalism experience while working as a reporter for an Oklahoma newspaper for five years. This exhibit will feature landscapes and nature. Free. Miller Branch Library, 8701 South 28th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-646-3945 fortsmithlibrary.org

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The parade and celebration are held in the historic district where many original barracks and buildings of Fort Chaffee still stand, including the military barbershop where Pvt. Elvis Presley got his G.I. haircut, as did thousands of other servicemen. The adjacent Fort Chaffee Military Museum tells the extensive history of the World War II-era Army base.

Register now by contacting the Fort Chaffee Redevelopment Authority to receive line-up information. Or just take a lawn chair and be a spectator. The parade begins at noon. Arrive early and enter Chaffee Crossing from Arkansas 22. Turn left on Taylor Avenue and right on Terry Street to park. Shuttles will give rides to the parade route. After the parade, the historic district’s museums will be open and activities for the family are offered by several organizations.

Fort Smith Museum of History Float Offers Seats to Veterans The museum invites veterans to ride in the parade on its large float. Call 479-783-7841 to arrange a seat.

16th Annual Van Buren Veterans Day Parade This patriotic observance is a lighted, evening Veterans Day Parade held on Van Buren’s Main Street to honor all military and service personnel – veteran and active duty. Past parades have been notable for the participation of many military vehicles and veterans organizations. To volunteer or participate, phone parade organizer Les Thomas Jr. or email vbvetparade@gmail.com. Free. 6:30 p.m. Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-662-3374

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Nov. 1-30 Mr. Rogers’ Sweater Drive The Van Buren and Alma public libraries will be collection stations for the 2017 Mr. Rogers’ Sweater Drive. This kind and helpful drive will bring warmth to many, including both the givers and the receivers.

Please donate new or gently worn sweaters. The libraries encourage everyone to help them create a "neighborly feeling" in the spirit of the late Fred Rogers, who created the beloved PBS children’s program “Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood” and who gently taught the values of generosity and caring. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-4746045 or Alma Public Library, Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Nov. 1-Dec. 31 Toys for Tots Hurricane Grinch Fighter Challenge A local Air Force veteran, Sarah Conley, is diving in to encourage donors to give to the Toys For Tots campaign, which has a specific division for gifts for children affected by Hurricane Harvey. Conley has partnered with friends, veterans in another state, who will be bicycling 215 miles as Conley swims a total of 215 miles, a distance chosen to represent the square mileage of hurricane damage. This “Hurricane Grinch Fighters” fundraising team has a Facebook page of the same name showing the athletes’ progress toward the 215-mile challenge and directions for where to donate money to purchase toys.

Nov. 1-Dec. 31 Fort Smith Public Library Holiday Food Drive Drop off non-perishable food items at any library. All food collected will go to the Community Services Clearinghouse. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229

Nov. 1-Jan. 1 Stuart Davis: In Full Swing Artist Stuart Davis captures the cool in this special exhibition of 80-plus paintings and drawings that prove he’s an American original. With a career that stretched from the early 1900s into the ’60s, Davis is a leader in American modern art. Through his bold colors and dynamic forms, he merged the visuals of advertising with the rhythms of jazz. Chihuly in the Forest can be seen daily and in the evenings Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, 600 Museum Way, Bentonville,Ark. 479-418-5700 Nov. 2 Van Buren Fall ArtWalk 2017 Artworks and artists will be exhibiting on Main Street and indoors in shops and galleries on Thursday evening of extended shopping hours and entertainment. Free. 5-8 p.m. Main Street, Van Buren, Ark.

Lisa Jan-Bohné Clay

Nov. 1-Dec. 31 The Unstill Life: Paintings by Lisa Jan-Bohné Clay A new series of paintings by Lisa Jan-Bohné Clay will be on exhibit at Dewey's Café. Clay paints with vibrant brush strokes, bold use of color, and bold perspective.

Free. Dewey's Cafe at the Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 Nov. 1-Dec. 31 Photo Enchantment by Sara Galbach Original artwork by artist Sara Galbach will hang in the Community Room. Her oil paints and photography are colliding in digital compositions she calls photoenchantment. Free. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229

Conley’s gear for fighting the Hurricane Grinch Nov. 1-Feb. 28 Holiday Matching Challenge Hannah House launches a Holiday Matching Challenge. Anonymous donors and the Hannah House board of directors donated $20,000 and challenge the public to match that amount. Every dollar goes towards its mission of "Restoring Daughters and Saving Lives." Mail checks to Hannah House, P.O. Box 1672, Fort Smith, AR 72902; by phone or online. Hannah House, 418 South 17th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-782-5683 hannahhouseark.org

Nov. 2 An Evening of Poetry with Dr. Christian Gerard and Heather Dobbins Dr. Christian Gerard and Heather Dobbins of the UAFS English Department present a night of poetry, featuring works from their personal and published collections and books. Free. 7 p.m. Dewey's Cafe, Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. Nov. 2 Theatre Preview Show: Little Women The Wanda J. Williams Theatre Company will perform a preview of their new show. Free. 4:30 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140

Native Americans and black troops represented in Oklahoma’s Civil War Battle of Honey Springs Re-enactment A special re-enactment of a Civil War battle near present-day Checotah and Rentiesville, Okla., will depict a notable moment in history. Costumed re-enactors will bring to life the largest military clash ever to have occurred in Oklahoma.

The 1863 battle was as a pivotal point in Civil War military engagement in Indian Territory, a clash of forces between U.S. units under Maj. Gen.James G. Blunt and Confederate troops commanded by Brig. Gen. Douglas H. Cooper.

About 9,000 soldiers were involved, including Cherokee and Creek regiments, other American Indian forces, Texas regiments and the 1st Kansas Colored Volunteers, the first black regiment in the Union Army.

The battle was significant in the Union’s drive to gain military control of Indian Territory.

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Nov. 3 is a pre-battle educational tour open to the public with living history demonstrations, military drills and other everyday activities of soldiers. Vendors will sell reproductions of 19th-century military equipment, clothes, books and souvenirs. Admission is free Nov. 3.

At 1 p.m. Nov. 4 and 5, more than 1,500 participants will recreate the battle. It is a scripted battle, meaning the re-enactor companies and regiments make the same actions that were taken in the original battle, on the original battleground.

Food will be available from on-site vendors. Admission Nov. 4-5 is $5 adults; children 12 and under, free. Honey Springs Battlefield, 1863 Honey Springs Battlefield Road, Checotah, Okla. 918-473-5572 okhistory.org/sites/honeyspringsbattle.php

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Nov. 3 Cause for Paws Dinner and Award Evening for the Sebastian County Humane Society This is the 80th anniversary of this fundraising event, with features music by DJ Raze, a Street Style Dogs fashion show, Mexican food-inspired dinner, beer and wine, live and silent auction and more. Canine Couture tees available for purchase. The Sebastian County Humane Society Adoption Van will offer personal tours of adoptable pets. $75. 6-10 p.m. Fort Smith Convention Center, 55 South 7th Street , Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-4395 sebastiancountyhumanesociety.org

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Nov. 3 Yoga For Special Needs Yogaterrium teams with The New Normal (a local special needs group) to offer a monthly yoga class for those with autism, disabilities and other special needs.

A 30-minute class will go over basic yoga poses, breathing and relaxation. Open to ages 5 years and older. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to attend class, too. Yoga mats and props are provided. $5 per person. 4-5 p.m. Yogaterrium, 2712 Grand Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-459-2187 yogaterrium.com

Nov. 3 First Friday Friends: Show and Tell Expand your circle of friends at a monthly program for adults to enjoy fun activities and social time. Take an item that holds a special memory to “Show and Tell.” Coffee and light refreshments are available. Free.

10:30 a.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 Nov. 3-4 Weekend Retreat: A Deepening Understanding of Ourselves and Others Presenter Kaye Bernard introduces the Enneagram, which can be a powerful spiritual tool for understanding, in a two-day workshop. $95 resident, $70 commuter, $50 one day. St. Scholastica Retreat Center, 1205 S. Albert Pike, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-4147 stscho.org/retreat-registration

Nov. 3, 17 Writers Group Meet with other writers to share work, give encouragement and offer suggestions in a workshop. Free.

10 a.m. Mountainburg Public Library, 1300 U.S. 71 North, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-1600

Nov. 3, 17 Redwork To learn redwork embroidery, take an embroidery needle, an embroidery loop, red floss, envelopes and a shoe box. Experienced needleworkers are happy to teach beginners. Free. 12:30-2:30 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140

Nov. 4 TrailBlazers Hike Mount Magazine State Park TrailBlazers Hiking Club will hike at Mount Magazine State Park. Starting from the Visitors Center, hike the North Rim Trail, visit Cameron Bluff and go to the top of Signal Hill. Stand at the highest point in Arkansas.

From there, head back to the Visitors Center for a total distance of about 6 miles, rated moderate. Take lunch and water. Register online or by phone. Meet at Home Depot in Fort Smith to carpool/caravan. 8 a.m. Mount Magazine State Park, Arkansas 309 South, Paris, Ark. 479-646-9562 thcfs.com

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Nov. 4 Arkansas River Holiday Market This two-day shopping event will offer vendor booths from all over. $5. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Kay Rodgers Park Expo Building, 4400 Midland Blvd., Fort Smith, Ark. 479-719-0736 arholidaymarket.com Nov. 4 Mountain Dulcimer Club Beginning and experienced dulcimer players meet to learn from one another, share music and play together.

Free. Noon. Mountainburg Public Library, 1300 U.S. 71 North, Mountainburg, Ark. 479-369-1600 Nov. 4 Authors Day Local writers of fiction and nonfiction will talk about their books. Returning favorites and new authors will appear. Free. 10-11 a.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 BONFIRE, felted wool fiber sculpture.

Art calls out polluters and defends earth NOVEMBER

BONFIRE is a collection of works FEBRUARY that expresses the fiber and fiber sculpture artist’s growing concern for the Earth, a concern which started burning in 1971 when she made ritualistic fiber sculptures that celebrated nature. In 1985, Cade created a series of Hair Hats, made with horse and goat hair, as a way to punish those who did not honor and take care of nature. New hats made since 2015 are a response to specific environmental disasters such as the Pegasus Pipeline spill at Mayflower, Ark.

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Cade is a native of Hot Springs who has been recognized by the Arkansas Committee of the National Museum of Women in the Arts and has been invited to exhibit in regional museums and galleries in several states. This solo exhibit at RAM is a prize awarded for her work in the RAM Invitational. Her 2015 piece "Animus River Spill" was purchased for the RAM's permanent collection.

A reception will be held for Cade’s opening from 5-7 p.m. Nov. 3. The reception is free for members, $5 for non-members.

Museum admission is free. Museum hours are 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday; 1-5 p.m. Sunday. Fort Smith Regional Art Museum, 1601 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-784-2787 fsram.org 56

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Nov. 4 River Valley Run This is the 10th year for the Coach Jim Rowland FCA River Valley Run. Rowland has been a long time friend to FCA and so FCA honors him this year. The RVR includes a 5K, 10K, half-marathon and virtual halfmarathon. 9 a.m. Ben Geren Regional Park/Chaffee, 7200 Zero Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-649-8815 rivervalleyrun.com Nov. 4 Veterans Art and Crafts Show Attention, veterans who are artists and craftsmen: The Cre8tive Arts Network invites you to show your works during the Veterans Day Parade. A people's choice award will be given. Free. Noon-5 p.m. Cre8ive Arts Network Inc., 7408 Terry Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-357-9079 cre8beartsy.com Nov. 4 Ouachita Arts Celebration This fourth annual indoor/outdoor street festival of arts features hands-on adult and kid craft projects, acting performances, live music, professional face painting, flint knapping, belly dancing, pre-1943 vintage cars, culinary demonstrations, martial arts, art of falconry, fashion show art galleries and restaurants.

Free. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Mena's Downtown Arts District, 607 Mena Street, Mena, Ark. 479-394-3880 menaartgallery.org Nov. 4 17th Annual Huntington's Walk of Hope More than 75 local people have been helped by testing and participation in clinical research studies to find the cure and alleviate symptoms of Huntington’s Disease.

A donation of $10 is appreciated but not required for each T-shirt. Free. 8-11 a.m. Creekmore Park Community Building, 3300 Rogers Ave, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-462-2734 Nov. 4 Magic: The Gathering Newcomers and veterans of the game alike are welcome to play for fun or practice for upcoming tournaments. This card game of strategy and luck uses creatures, spells, and enchantments to drain an opponent’s life force before they do the same. All ages are welcome. Free. 1-4 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org

Nov. 4 Blacksmith Demonstration An outdoor blacksmith demonstration will be held at the parking lot of the Fort Smith Museum of History.

See live demonstrations and Items made by the blacksmiths for sale. The Blacksmith Organization of Arkansas is dedicated to preserving the skills, techniques and traditions of blacksmithing. Free. 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Fort Smith Museum of History, 320 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-7841 fortsmithmuseum.org Nov. 4-5 IC Ladies Auxiliary Holiday Bazaar The annual Immaculate Conception Ladies Auxiliary Bazaar will showcase handmade items: quilts, dolls, needlework, a Christmas booth, children's booth, wooden gifts, crafts and more. The country store will sell the auxiliary’s famous featherbed rolls, cinnamon rolls, cakes, pies, jellies, candies, cookies and live plants. Shop for jewelry, Rada knives, casseroles to go, browse a silent auction and enter a raffle. Homemade potato soup and sandwiches are available. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday. Free admission. 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Nov. 4; 8 a.m.-noon Nov. 5. Immaculate Conception Parish Center, North 13th Street and Garrison Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-462-6309 Nov. 5 Crawford County Chronicles: WWI Centennial Follow the World War I experiences of brothers Dunham and Phillip D. Scott Jr. and their sister, Caroline Mary Scott, who trained as a Red Cross nurse to serve in the great war. These former residents of the Drennen-Scott Historic Site, which was their home, provide a relatable story of America’s involvement in the war.

Historic site director Tom Wing will share these stories and show related documents and items. This program is endorsed by the Arkansas WWI Centennial Commission. Call to reserve seats. On-site parking is expanded. 1:30 p.m. Drennen-Scott Historic Site, 222 North 3rd Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-262-2750 Nov. 5-Dec. 16 CAE November Gallery Opening: Ernest Cialone University of Arkansas-Fort Smith associate professor Ernest Cialone will bring the classroom to the main gallery. This body of work relates to the classes that he has taught from art foundations class to upper level figure drawing. It will show the connection between classroom learning and the finished product of a practicing artist. In the Studio Gallery, Larry Millican's photography, art glass by Elisa Cossey and paintings by Erica Johnson. Opening reception 1-4 p.m. Nov. 5.

Free. Center for Art and Education, 104 North 13th Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-7767 art-ed.org Nov. 6-27 Color Me Happy Every Monday, a relaxing and fun coloring time for adults. The library furnishes markers and pages. Free.

8 a.m.-5 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 Nov. 6-27 Ballroom Dance Lessons Mike and Lisa Lawrence teach ballroom dance lessons every Monday. Beginner lessons are 7:30-8:30 p.m., advanced lessons are 6:30-7:30 p.m. The type of dance changes each month. Attire is casual. $5.

6:30-8:30 p.m. Eagles Ballroom, 3371 South 66th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-208-1072

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Nov. 7 Author Visit Meet author Charity Bradford. Free. 4 p.m. Mulberry Public Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226 Nov. 7 Diabetes Academy Instructor Lisa Roling of Novo Nordisk teaches about managing diabetes. Free. 10 a.m.-noon. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 Nov. 7 Doc Night: Sound City (NR) Directed by Dave Grohl (Nirvana, Foo Fighters), Sound City tells the story of the acclaimed Van Nuys, Calif., recording studio that produced some of the greatest records of the past century. Neil Young, Tom Petty, Stevie Nicks and a multitude music legends tell stories from within the brown shag walls of the iconic house of music. This music is not rated and contains adult content, including strong language. Free. 6 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org Nov. 7 New Pottery Classes Forming Advanced level wheel throwing classes by Jennifer.

She will demonstrate in groups and teach individual classes. Class will cover functional forms on the wheel, as well as trimming, proportions and glazing.

Class is priced by the hour. 5-7 p.m. Cre8ive Arts Network, 7408 Buckhorn Off Terry Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 585-503-6101 cre8beartsy.com Nov. 8 100th Anniversary of World War I See a special program about the 1914-18 conflict that was meant to be the “War to End All Wars.” The United States entered the war in 1917. More than 9 million combatants and 7 million civilians died as a result of the war. An armistice ended fighting on Nov. 11, 1918. Refreshments provided. Free. 4 p.m. Mulberry Public Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226 Nov. 8 Make a Marketing Map for Your Rural Business Learn how to use a marketing map to target and reach more customers at an interactive workshop. Sketch out a quick-action plan for promoting a business.

Leave with specific ways to increase your bottom line.

Registration by Nov. 7. Free. 10 a.m.-noon. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-356-2067 asbtdc.org/training/russellville-events Nov. 8 Fort Smith Public Library Writing Club Writers from teens to seniors and any background are invited to attend the monthly meeting Writing Club.

Discuss writing goals and ambitions, experience other member's works and enjoy being among friends. Laptops welcome. Free. 4-5 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org Nov. 9 Christmas Card Class Adults may register now to create Christmas cards Free. 1-3 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 November 2017

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Nov. 9 Adult Craft Party Get into the Christmas spirit by making a DIY string Christmas tree. Register by Nov. 2 in person or by phone. Free. 2 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 Nov. 10 Owl Prowl Join staff on a stroll along Wells Lake and Beaver Creek Trails. Take a flashlight. Free. 6 p.m. River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Wells Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-3993 rivervalleynaturecenter.com

Nov. 11 Littlefield Oil 5K This second annual race held by Littlefield Oil will benefit The First Tee of Fort Smith, Girls Inc., The Humane Society of Greenwood and Arkansas Children's Hospital. Registration 8 a.m. Race starts at 9 a.m. Register online or by phone. $30. 8-11 a.m. Ben Geren Regional Park, 7200 South Zero Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-646-5243 littlefieldoil.com/5k.html

Nov. 10 Chapters on Main Book Club Each month showcases a different author. Members choose which of the author’s books to read. Free. 6-7 p.m. Chapters on Main Book Store, 816 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-471-9315

Nov. 11 Homebuyers Workshop Class CSCDC presents monthly homebuyers classes that provide step-by-step education designed to successfully coach potential homebuyers through the buying process. Free. 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Crawford Sebastian Community Development Council, 1617 South Zero Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-785-2303 ext. 125 Nov. 11 Hike the Seven Hollows Trail TrailBlazers Hiking Club will hike this beautiful trail at Petit Jean State Park, a scenic 4.2 mile trail with bluffs, boulders, waterfalls and a natural bridge, rated moderate. Take lunch and water. Sign up online or by phone. Meet at Cloverleaf Plaza parking lot in Van Buren to carpool/caravan. 8 a.m. Petit Jean State Park, 1285 Petit Jean Mountain Road, Morrilton, Ark. 479-646-9562 thcfs.com Nov. 11 8th Annual Holiday Market Twenty-five unique booths of holiday decor, gifts, jewelry, quilts, jelly and more. Free. 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

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Nov. 11-Dec. 16 Paint and Take Participants will create and take home Thanksgiving and Christmas ornaments. Children and adults welcome. $15. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Cre8ive Arts Network, 7408 Buckhorn, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-461-9829 cre8beartsy.com Nov. 13 Meet Me in the Middle Movie Night: Dead Poets Society NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) participants are invited to celebrate making it halfway through the month (and your novel) with a screening of “Dead Poets Society” (PG). Pick up some helpful writing resources. Young writers are encouraged to stay after the movie to write and chat with other writers and library staff. Light refreshments provided.

Free. 3:30-6 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229

Nov. 10-11 Studio Art Class with Julie Mayser Accomplished pastel artist Julie Mayser presents a Studio Art Workshop for beginning to intermediate level artists. Classes will introduce techniques of drawing, color, value composition and more. Mayser is an award-winning pastel artist and experienced teacher. $75 for the two-day workshop. Center for Art and Education, 104 North 13th Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-7767 art-ed.org Nov. 10-11 Pilot Club Pecan and Fruitcake Sale The Fort Smith Pilot Club holds its annual sale offering a fresh crop, 1-pound bag of mammoth pecan halves and fruitcakes, pecan logs, glazed pecans, cinnamonand chocolate-covered pecans, pecan clusters and cashews. Proceeds benefit the Alzheimer’s Association, Huntington's Disease, Community Services Clearinghouse Meals for Kids Backpack Program, Fountain of Youth day care center, autism seminar and other local charities. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Woodland Methodist Church parking lot, 7804 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-883-5633

Nov. 13 Adult Coloring Club Coloring is not just for kids anymore.Take personal supplies or use markers and pages provided by the library. Free. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045

Nov. 13 Book Talk Discuss “The Elegance of the Hedgehog” by Muriel Barbey. Free. 7-8 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045

Nov. 11 Veterans Day Reception All veterans and their families are invited to share stories and refreshments on Veterans Day. View photos, uniforms and artifacts from past Veterans Day exhibits and excerpts of video interviews with local veterans conducted by the Fort Smith Historical Society. Learn the stories of well-known Fort Smith veterans Adm. Edward Walter Eberle, Adm. Charles "Savvy" Cooke, Gen. William O. Darby and more. 1-3 p.m. Fort Smith Museum of History, 320 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-7841 fortsmithmuseum.org Nov. 11 10th Annual Black Tie Bingo Gala A gala event with fine dining, BINGO games and raffle items in support of the Fort Smith Public Library Endowment Trust.

Daren Bobb and Erika Thomas will be the emcees with entertainment by the Don Bailey Jazz Ensemble and Teri Bailey on the keyboard. Seating is limited. Call for tickets. $150. 7-11 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 Nov. 11-30 Come Clay with Us! Learn how to hand build or throw on a wheel. Limited space. $30. 5-7 p.m. Cre8ive Arts Network, 7408 Buckhorn, Historic Chaffee Crossing, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-357-9079 cre8beartsy.com

Nov. 13 Mercy Fort Smith Project SEARCH Project SEARCH is an innovative job-training program that provides a nine-month internship opportunity for young adults 18-35 with developmental disabilities in order to gain competitive and integrated employment.

Learn more at this informational, drop-in meeting from 4-6 p.m. Free. Mercy Fort Smith Hospital, Sicard Education Room, 7301 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 501-529-3139 projectsearcharkansas.org Nov. 13 Speaker Jenny Sorey at Zonta Club of Fort Smith Jenny Sorey, a missionary and advocate for victims of human trafficking, will speak. Sorey, founder and executive director of Hub of HOPE, will speak about her work with Hub of HOPE and Partners Against Trafficking Humans. Non-members are welcome. Free. 67 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library Community Room, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-414-9117 zontafortsmith.com Nov. 14 Book Talk for Adults Discuss the book “A Mother’s Reckoning” by Sue Klebold, the parent of one of the students who committed a mass shooting at Columbine High School in 1999.

Free. 6 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 Nov. 14 Dutch Oven Lid Lifter Learn about some of the uses and care of a cast-iron Dutch oven, including making a dessert,"lid-lifter" style. Advance registration is recommended. Free. 6 p.m. River Valley Nature Center, 8300 Well Lake Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-3993 rivervalleynaturecenter.com

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Nov. 14 Alzheimer’s Basics Hear an ongoing series of presentations to raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease. Free. 10 a.m.

Mulberry Public Library, 220 North Main Street, Mulberry, Ark. 479-997-1226 Nov. 14 The Book Lover’s Club Adults may read a book, fiction or non-fiction, then present a short report on up to three titles. The Book Lover’s Club meets the second Tuesday of every month at the main library. Free. 10:15 a.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org Nov. 14 Senior Circle: Holiday Card Making Participants will get the chance to hand make multiple Christmas and birthday greeting cards. Led by Pastoral Care volunteer Iris Bruce, this class will be held in the Shuffield Education Center. Registration is required. Call or go online to register. Free. 10-11:30 a.m. Sparks Regional Medical Center, 1001 Towson Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-441-4000 sparkshealth.com Nov. 15 Cancer and Nutrition: Incorporating Super Foods and Antioxidants through the Holidays A talk presented by Ryan Ellison, RD, LD. Sparks Nutrition Counseling Center. Free. 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Donald W. Reynolds Cancer Support House, 3324 South M Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-782-6302 Nov. 15 Diabetic Support Group Adults discuss a diabetes issue each month in a support group that can help diabetes patients realize they are not alone. Free. 2 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 Nov. 16 Ladies Night Holiday Shopping Extravaganza Twenty-five different vendors will sell their wares.

There will be door prizes, raffles, music, food, drink and more. Shop local and support the Bonneville House Association, a non-profit organization in the historic district of Fort Smith. $10. Two sessions: 5-7 p.m. or 7-9 p.m. Another option is a $20 VIP ticket to enter at 4 p.m. The Bonneville House, 318 North 7th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-782-7854 bonnevillehouse.com Nov. 16 QuickBooks Payroll Hands-on Workshops The Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center presents two QuickBooks Payroll workshops. The 9 a.m.-noon session is designed for QuickBooks Pro, Premier, and Enterprise users to learn the payroll features in the desktop version of QuickBooks accounting software. The 1-4 p.m. session is for those using the cloud-based version of QuickBooks to learn the payroll features in the online accounting platform. Topics in each session include tracking employee time, issuing paychecks, paying liabilities, and producing required payroll reports. A computer is provided. $65 per session. Seating is limited with registration required no later than Nov. 14.

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Author and guest speaker will tell how Arkansas women pitched in for World War I As a guest of the Fort Smith Historical Society, author Elizabeth Griffin Hill will present a program based on her new book, “Faithful To Our Tasks,” a history that highlights the efforts of Arkansas women during World War I as necessity caused them to step outside traditional female roles. The public is invited.

NOVEMBER

8

Hill also wrote “A Splendid Piece of Work: 1912-2012: One Hundred Years of Arkansas's Home Demonstration and Extension Homemakers Clubs.” Her research into the early 20th century illuminates changes in the lives of Arkansas women.

Their organizational abilities, already honed in women’s clubs and volunteer work, would lead to activism for broader rights – starting with the right to vote.

The United States, ill-prepared to enter World War I, turned to existing women’s groups to ask for war work: bandage-rolling, knitting and sewing to outfit the troops.

Other homefront work included learning and teaching food conservation. Her research documents often-overlooked contributions of women here in Arkansas and notes the social and civic progress that was to be one result.

Men fought, but women were in war service, too, in a time when many were already organized and working to improve public education and health in a rural state.

Free. 6-7:30 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library Community Room, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-353-6158 fortsmithhistory.org.

Published in March by Butler Center for Arkansas Studies

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Demirel will sign his new book on state’s African-American athletes NOVEMBER

The Fort Smith Museum

of History and state Rep. George McGill of Fort Smith present Arkansas author Evin Demirel for a book signing and program.

16

United States vs.

Belle Starr Fort Smith National Historic Site staff and volunteers will present three nights of its Night Court re-enactment program on the larceny charge of none other than the “Bandit Queen” herself.

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16-18

In 1883, Belle and Sam Starr are both tried for larceny for the theft of a neighbor's horse.

Testimony differs, old angers come to light and threats are made. If found guilty, they both could face a year in prison.

The audience is the jury and will hear the testimony of the accused and the witnesses and the arguments of the prosecutor and the defense as it was recorded in the real court transcripts and records. As a jury, the audience will vote to render a verdict before learning the historic outcome of the trial.

Although she was locally known, it was coverage of this trial by national press that sensationalized her name. Newspapers created colorful names for her such as “Bandit Queen” and “Lady Desperado.” Trial records are possibly the only accurate account of any of Starr’s deeds. She, like many figures of the West, was to leave behind more legend than historical record.

Tickets are $7. Seating is limited. Purchase tickets now at the front desk of visitor center.

7 p.m. Nov. 16 and 17; 6 p.m. Nov. 18. The visitor center is open 9 a.m.-7 p.m., seven days a week. Fort Smith National Historic Site, 301 Parker Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-3961 62

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Arkansas' rich African-American sports heritage gets the attention it deserves in Demrel’s new anthology, which contains original features on Fayetteville's forgotten "Black Razorbacks" of the 1930s, Muhammad Ali's fascinating week-long 1969 tour through the state and award-winning articles from Arkansas Times, Arkansas Life, the North Little Rock Times, Slate.com and more.

Stories of Rep. McGill’s father, Louis "Teddy" McGill are included in the book. He was considered one of the area's best left-handed pitchers – a star on semi-pro and pro teams in Fort Smith and east Oklahoma.

Evin Demirel, a former Latin teacher and award-winning feature writer for the Arkansas DemocratGazette, has written for the New York Times, Daily Beast, SLAM Magazine and Arkansas Money and Politics. The Little Rock native graduated from Central High School and the University of Arkansas.

5-7 p.m. Fort Smith Museum of History, 320 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-7841 Nov. 16 Open Mic Night at Dewey’s Café Musicians, poets, and other talented folks are invited to perform. Sign-up at the door; arrive early to ensure a spot on the list. Music and writing does not have to be original. Acoustic music only. Free. 7 p.m. Dewey's Cafe at the Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org Nov. 16 Cedarville Library Book Club Discuss a new selection every month and discover new authors. Free. 1:30 p.m. Cedarville Public Library, 737 Pirates Way, Cedarville, Ark. 479-410-1853 Nov. 17 Diamond Dance Learn to dance to swing, ballroom, latin and country music. Dress attire is dressy/casual. $5. 8-10 p.m. Eagles Ballroom, 3371 South 66th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-208-1072 Nov. 17-19 Canvas Painting Retreat Paint three different canvas designs led by Shelly of Truth Be Told Art, at a three-day retreat. Supplies provided for one, two or all three designs. $120 per adult, includes two nights dorm and four meals. Children age 7 and under attend free, only paying for their art.

Dwight Mission Camp and Conference Center, 100995 South 4590 Road, Vian, Okla.

866-298-1739 dwightmission.org

Nov. 18 Poteau Women's League Holiday Market In addition to numerous vendors, there will be door prizes, food concessions and more. $2; 12 and under free. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Donald W. Reynolds Community Center, 105 Reynolds, Poteau, Okla. 918-647-9178 Nov. 18 9th Annual Christmas Festival A one-stop Christmas shopping experience offers handmade items, jewelry, Christmas decor, gifts, candles, clothing, beauty products, purses, food and more. Lunch and take-out available. Free. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. First United Methodist Church Family Life Center, 4th and Broadway, Booneville, Ark. 479-675-6900 Nov. 18 Santa Arrival Breakfast at Central Mall Have breakfast before meeting Santa. Free. 10-11 a.m.

Central Mall, 5111 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-452-1866 CentralMallFortSmith.com Nov. 18 Fort Smith Museum of History: The Doctor is In Opening reception for a new permanent exhibit donated and created by Dr. Michael Linimon of Fort Smith, featuring optometry equipment from the late 19th century through the 1970s. Linimon volunteers to give presentations to school and visitor groups.

Museum admission is $7 adults; $5 veterans and military; $2 children; under age 6 free. 2-4 p.m. Fort Smith Museum of History, 320 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-7841 fortsmithmuseum.org

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Photo by Jim Warnock

Nov. 18 Hike Lake Alma Trail TrailBlazers Hiking Club will hike Lake Alma Trail, a 3.8-mile loop rated moderate. This public trail offers scenic bluff lines, boulder fields, small streams, a seasonal waterfall, historic structures and artifacts and views of the lake. Provide your own water and a snack.

Hikers can meet at Cloverleaf Plaza parking lot at 9 a.m. to carpool and/or caravan or may meet at trailhead at 9:15 a.m. Non-members are welcome to go along any TrailBlazers hike, but are asked to register in advance, online or by phone. Lake Alma Trail, Mountain Grove Road, Alma, Ark. 479-646-9562 thcfs.com

Landscape by Jimmy Leach Nov. 19 Michael's Mansion 3rd Sunday Art Show Featured artists will show works with the theme "Christmas on Canvas" at the art gallery in Michael's Mansion. The afternoon includes complimentary refreshments created by Chef Mike. Guests can browse the paintings and other artworks of noted local and regional artists and talk with the artists. All works are for sale. The work on display changes each month and may include many styles of paintings, framed and unframed art, and works in many mediums, including sculpture. Free. 1-4 p.m. Michael's Mansion, 2900 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-883-8336 michaelsmansion.biz November 2017

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Nov. 19 Mistletoe Market Mistletoe Market is a one-stop holiday shopping extravaganza featuring unique merchandise from more than 35 carefully selected, local vendors from the River Valley. Shop for clothing, gourmet foods, gifts, children’s items, jewelry and more during the market.

There also will be door prizes and a silent auction.

Santa Claus will be present for a mini photo session

by Drew Lacy Photography. Free admission. 2-6 p.m.

Van Buren Boys and Girls Club, 1400 City Park Road, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-9401

Hiking Club hosts Arkansas photographer Tim Ernst for his outstanding visual presentation At its annual general meeting, the TrailBlazers Hiking Club will host a guest program by Tim Ernst, well-known Arkansas author, nature photographer, writer and author of many of the state’s most valued trail guides. Ernst will show and narrate his new annual slide program featuring photographs from his new photography book, Arkansas Beauty.

Everyone is welcome to enjoy the show.

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Ernst is invited around the state and region to present this digital slide show that displays his outstanding photography on the big screen. Because of his years of Arkansas hiking experience, Ernst reveals in his images many beautiful locations that hikers may never have known were in our state. In his long career of publishing trail guidebooks and calendars of his photography, contributing photos to state and national publications, sales of prints and his online presence, Ernst has spread the beauty of the Natural State throughout the world.

Many photographers travel to the splendor of the Ozark National Forest near the Buffalo River, where Ernst lives, to take his on-site nature photography seminars. There will be a question-answer time to ask hiking, photography or outdoor-related questions. Admission is free and the public is welcome. Ernst’s books, posters and calendars will available for purchase and signing. The program begins at 7 p.m. at Grace Community United Methodist Church, 4001 Brooken Hill Road, Fort Smith, Ark. Phone 479-646-9562 or visit thcfs.com to read more about the hiking club’s activities.

Hike along with the Trailblazers

The Trailblazers Hiking Club is mostly active in the fall and winter months, day-hiking in the surrounding Ozarks and Ouachita mountains of western Arkansas and eastern Oklahoma..

Many of their season’s hikes appear in this November calendar of events. The club is open to new members, or to folks who would enjoy tagging along on a particular hike. Each hike is rated according to physical difficulty; most Trailblazer outings, unless otherwise noted, are comfortably accomplished by people in good health and mobility who stay hydrated, wear appropriate clothing and footwear and follow all hiking safety rules. Hikers must take their own food and water and are responsible for their own safety. The friendly group is glad to offer information, encouragement and good company. See the club website for a packing list of essential gear and the full club guidelines.

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Nov. 19-Dec. 2 Handcrafted Holiday Items Created

by Children in Care The River Valley Adoption Coalition will occupy the Shops at BrickCity’s Community Corner for two weeks to share information about the foster care crisis in our area and to accept donations. Local children and teens in foster care have created many unique handmade ornaments and note card sets to be exchanged for donations for RVAC. All funds will be used to create more awareness about the local foster care crisis and the dire need for more foster/adoptive families, to support current foster/adoptive families, provide activities for children and teens in foster care and to grant wishes of kids in care. Presently, the number of children and teens in foster care from our area could fill 17 school bus. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Shops at BrickCity Community Corner, 3215 South 74th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-434-5858 Nov. 20 Music & Memories by the Alzheimer’s Association The Alzheimer’s Association and Alma Public Library have partnered to make a difference for those living with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers. Caregivers will meet for support while a musical program with games and fun engages their loved ones who are affected by the disease. Free. 1 p.m. Alma Public Library, 624 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Ark. 479-632-4140 Nov. 21 Crossroads Book Club Members highlight a different author each month and can choose one of that author's books to discuss.

Free. 2-3 p.m. Savoy Tea Co., 925 Garrison Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-414-2022 Nov. 23 Thanksgiving Day Holiday Nov. 24-26 Van Buren Holiday Express Train Rides Children, especially, may enjoy a one hour-round train trip with a visit from Santa and friends. Buy tickets by phone or online. 6:30 p.m. Nov. 24; 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. Nov. 25; 11 a.m., 2:30 p.m. and 4 p.m. Nov. 26. Van Buren Visitor Center - Train Depot, 813 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 800-687-8600 amrailroad.com Nov. 25 12th Annual Run With the Knights 5K Proceeds from this annual run are used to take students to Fourth Grade Camp for three days/two nights at no extra cost to the students. $15 advance registration; $25 day of the race. The race will begin at 8:30 a.m. King Elementary School, 411 North 20th Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-208-1948 vbsd.us/schools/king-elementary

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Nov. 25 Flute and Drum Circle Local and area flute and drum enthusiasts meet the last Saturday of every month.1-2 p.m. Yogaterrium, 2712 Grand Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-459-2187 yogaterrium.com Nov. 25-Dec. 31 The Perfect Gift: Library Books for Christmas Visit any Fort Smith Public Library location to choose a book to add to the library’s collection in honor or memory of someone special. Children’s books are a $10 donation; adult books are a $25 donation. Proceeds from the Perfect Gift fundraiser go to a fund to be used for the purchase of new library materials. All Fort Smith Public Library locations. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org Nov. 26 Lee Creek Recreation Area Hike TrailBlazers Hiking Club will hike at Lee Creek Recreation Area, a scenic area close to home. Hike the Cracked Rock Trail to a rugged bluff area and the Homestead Trail featuring historic artifacts and cemetery for a distance of 2-3 miles rated moderate. Take water and a snack. Meet at Cloverleaf Plaza parking lot at 1 p.m. to carpool and/or caravan. Lee Creek Recreation Area, Pine Hollow Road, Van Buren, Ark. 479-646-9562 thcfs.com Nov. 28 Lunch and Learn: SBA Loans Help Small Business Herb Lawrence of the Small Business Administration will present information about available small business loans and how to apply and quality for them. A complimentary lunch will be provided courtesy of sponsor BancorpSouth. Although there is no charge to attend, seating is limited and registration is required no later than Nov. 26. Free. 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Fort Smith Regional Chamber of Commerce, 612 Garrison Ave, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-356-2067 asbtdc.org/training/russellville-events Nov. 30 Welcome Neighbor Book Club “The Mountain Between Us” by Charles Martin will be discussed. All women are invited to activities of the Welcome Neighbor Club for women who are new to the area or any woman who enjoys making new friends. Free. 11:30 a.m. Dewey's Cafe Main Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 972-849-3004 WelcomeNeighborFtSmith.weebly.com Nov. 30 Crafterwork: Christmas Countdown Plate Crafterwork offers ages 18 and up the opportunity and the art supplies to make crafts after work. Create a Christmas countdown display plate to count down to the big day. Register in advance, space is limited. Free.

6 p.m. Van Buren Public Library, 1409 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-6045 Dec. 1-2 2nd Annual Christmas in the City Shopping Extravaganza Browse vendor booths of gift ideas, holiday decorations and a wide selection of merchandise and enjoy the fun of taking photos with Santa (Noon-3 p.m. Saturday only) and entering hourly drawings. Food trucks offer meals, beverages and treats. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Ben Geren Regional Park Events Center, 7200 Zero Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-831-9605 November 2017

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Drennen-Scott Historic Site Holiday Open House DEC

The Drennen-Scott Historic Site will hold its Victorian Holiday Open House, keeping many traditions of the Drennen-Scott families. Enjoy live music, period refreshments, costumed interpreters, Victorian holiday decorations and outdoor luminaries. 5:30 p.m. Drennen-Scott Historic Site, 221 North 3rd Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-262-2750

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Dec. 1-30 Holiday Reading Challenge Read a set number of books during the month of December and earn prizes. This holiday program is for children, teens, and adults. Free. 9 a.m. Dallas Branch Library, 8100 Dallas Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-484-5650 Dec. 2 Financial Fitness Class The CSCDC holds quarterly Financial Fitness classes open to all adults. These classes include information about how to develop budgeting and goals, how to leverage banking services, manage credit and investments and how to detect anda avoid predatory lending practices. This consumer education can be helpful to any individual, family or business person. Free. 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Crawford Sebastian Community Development Council, 1617 South Zero Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-85-2303, Ext. 125 cscdc.org 66

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Dec. 2 Crawford County Courthouse Lighting, Festival of Trees and Living Windows The annual lighting of the courthouse is at 6 p.m.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the courthouse is a Van Buren landmark. The Doric columns, classic portico and beautiful façade of the courthouse will be illuminated by white Christmas lights. The grounds are filled with decorated trees for the Festival of Trees Display. Along Main Street, live characters depicting the town’s colorful history are on display in the festive windows of downtown businesses. Free. 6 p.m. Crawford County Courthouse, 300 Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-474-1411 Dec. 2 Jingle Bell Jog 5K and Reindeer Fun Run Runners and walkers of all levels are invited to register for the 6th Annual Jingle Bell Jog 5K and Reindeer Fun Run at the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks. Wear Santa hat, elf ears – anything that sparkles and jingles!

Overall male and female finisher medals will be presented in various 5K age categories and finisher medals will be presented in the children's Fun Run. Complimentary breakfast, door prizes, music and special guests. Register online. Botanical Garden of the Ozarks, 4703 North Crossover Road, Fayetteville, Ark. 479-750-2620 bgozarks.org

St. John’s Episcopal Church

Dec. 3 Advent Lessons and Carols Organists, readers and singers from six Fort Smith churches – First United Methodist, Goddard United Methodist, First Presbyterian, Central Presbyterian, St. Bartholomew's Episcopal and St. John's Episcopal – will perform. A reception for everyone will follow in the Parish Hall. Free. 3 p.m. St John’s Episcopal Church, 215 North 6th Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-782-9912 stjohnfs.org Dec. 3 Beginning Beekeeping 101 with The Bearded Bee Learn how to begin keeping honey bees safely and successfully, taught by local beekeeper Michael Mahar. Topics will include structure of the beehive, tools and equipment, honey bee biology, how, where and when to get bees, hive inspection, state registration and inspectors, the four seasons of beekeeping, harvesting honey and parasites and disease prevention. Pre-registration and pre-payment are required. $25, 16 and older; students 15 and under free when accompanying a paid adult. Noon- 6 p.m. Crawford County Extension Office, 105 Pointer Trail West, Van Buren, Ark. 479-285-4402 beardedbee.org November 2017

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Arkansas Beer: An Intoxicating History Book Signing DECEMBER

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Brian Sorensen will visit the Fort Smith Public Library to sign his book about Arkansas beer-making, now a thriving scene but a long time in coming,

Arkansas’ booze scene had a promising start, with America’s biggest brewing families, Busch and Lemp, investing in Little Rock just prior to Prohibition. However, by 1915, the state had passed the Newberry Act, banning the manufacture and sale of alcohol.

It was not until 69 years later that the state welcomed its first post-temperance brewery, Arkansas Brewing Co. After a few false starts, brew pubs in Fayetteville, Fort Smith and Little Rock found success.

By 2000, the industry had regained momentum.

An explosion of breweries around the state has since propelled Arkansas into the modern beer age. The Fayetteville author’s work has appeared in the Fayetteville Flyer, All About Beer magazine and Southwest Brewing News.

Sorenson, a University of Arkansas graduate, is a human resources director for a Fortune 100 company based in northwest Arkansas. His gateway beer was Sierra Nevada Stout, and he learned to brew by way of the Methodist Church.

He enjoys traveling to beer destinations across the United States with his wife, Megan.

Copies of the book can be purchased for signing at this drop-in event. Free. 5-7 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org

Dec. 3 Greenwood United Methodist Women's Craft and Bake Sale Lots of handmade Christmas gifts, baked goods and coffee available. All proceeds help to fund United Methodist Women Mission projects, local and around the world. Free admission. 1-3 p.m. Greenwood United Methodist Church Family Life Center, El Paso and Main, Greenwood, Ark. 479-996-6397 Dec. 4 Now What? The NaNoWriMo Finale!

National Novel Writing Month participants are invited to celebrate the completion of their novels. Writers will be given resources to help with revision and publication, and are encouraged to chat with other novelists about their NaNoWriMo journey. The library will provide light refreshments. Free. 3-6 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 68 Entertainment Fort Smith November 2017

Dec. 4 -10 Friends of the Library Vintage and Rare Book Sale Just in time for the holidays, book lovers will find a broad assortment of books in this special sale including rare, vintage, and valuable titles. A range of topics are represented including art, religion, history, and much more with publication dates ranging from the 1800s to present.

Shoppers who can’t come during these hours can contact the Reference Desk at the Main Library to make an appointment to browse during other times.

A list of the books included in the sale will be available at the sale and on the library’s website beginning Dec. 1. Proceeds from the sale benefit the Friends of the Library. Free. Noon-5 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org

Dec. 5 Hearts of Gold Open House – Fort Smith The annual Hearts of Gold program to provide gifts for every area nursing home resident begins with a Fort Smith open house. Take new, unwrapped items from the Hearts of Gold needs list for nursing home residents. Enjoy refreshments, entertainment and even a visit from Santa! Hearts of Gold item collection begins now and continues until Dec. 19. Drop-off locations are: all Simmons Bank branch locations, Hampton Inn-Van Buren and the Project Compassion office at the St. Scholastica Retreat Center, 1205 South Albert Pike, Fort Smith. For those who don't have time to shop, monetary donations to Project Compassion "Hearts of Gold" will pay for gifts to be purchased and distributed to residents. The suggested needs list is for clothing size M to 5X such as nightgowns, pajama sets, colorful plain T-shirts, lounge pants, sweat shirt and pants and closed toe and heel house shoes. Free.

11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. St. Luke Lutheran Church, 5401 Free Ferry Road, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-2273 projectcompassioninc.com Dec. 7 Hearts of Gold Open House – Van Buren This open house in Van Buren launches the annual Hearts of Gold drive by Project Compassion, which provides a gift to every area nursing home resident.

Take new, unwrapped items from the Hearts of Gold Needs List for nursing home residents. Enjoy refreshments, entertainment and even a visit from Santa.

Hearts of Gold item collection continues until Dec. 19.

Drop-off locations are: all Simmons Bank locations, Hampton Inn-Van Buren and the Project Compassion office at the St. Scholastica Retreat Center, 1205 South Albert Pike, Fort Smith. Monetary donations can be made to Project Compassion "Hearts of Gold." Volunteers will do the shopping for the needed gifts. Hearts of Gold needs are for clothing sizes medium to 5X, such as nightgowns, pajama sets, colorful plain Tshirts, lounge pants, sweat shirt and pants, closed toe and heel house shoes. Free. 5:30-7 p.m. Hampton Inn – Van Buren, 1916 North 6th Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-783-2273 Dec. 9 St. Scholastica Monastery Bake Sale Browse a selection of bread, rolls, cakes, pies and cookies, as well as jellies, jams, pickles and mixes-injars. 8 a.m.-2 p.m. St. Scholastica Retreat Center, 1205 South Albert Pike, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-1135 stscho.org Dec. 9 Western Arkansas Ballet presents The Nutcracker Preview Show Get into the holiday spirit with a special “Nutcracker” story time featuring the performers of the Western Arkansas Ballet. The dancers will be sharing the magic of the Nutcracker Ballet by reading, dancing and assisting with fun activities. The preview will familiarize children with the story of the ballet. A young girl named Clara receives the gift of a wooden nutcracker at Christmas, then dreams the little soldier figure comes to life to be her courtly escort. There are visits from the Sugarplum Fair, the marauding Rat King and other adventures in Clara’s dream. This year’s WAB performance of “The Nutcracker” ballet will be Dec. 16-17. Free. 10:30 a.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Dec. 9 Van Buren Christmas Parade Van Buren’s historic Main Street is blocked off for its annual nighttime Christmas parade. All entries are lighted. Everyone is invited to participate, from antique car owners to children on bicycles. Register for the parade online. Free. 6:30 p.m. Free. Historic Main Street, Van Buren, Ark. 479-922-6862 Dec. 10 15th Annual Fort Smith Public Library Holiday Open House Celebrate the holiday season when the entire Fort Smith Public Library staff opens the doors of the main library for a festive afternoon of music, crafts, games, stories, holiday displays, light refreshments, and other entertainment for children and adults. There will be musical entertainment throughout the entire afternoon, along with special activities to delight all ages.

Take a non-perishable food item for the Holiday Food Drive. Free. 1-5 p.m. Fort Smith Public Library, 3201 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. 479-783-0229 fortsmithlibrary.org Dec. 16 Fort Smith Christmas Parade Online registration is open for the annual Christmas Parade presented by the Fort Smith Jaycees. A Facebook page, FSChristmasParade, has ongoing updates.

The parade traditionally includes local high school marching bands, decorated floats, antique and vintage automobiles, horseback riders, carriages and walking groups. And, of course, officially at the very end of the parade, Santa Claus makes his spectacular entry. Free.

3 p.m. Garrison Avenue, Fort Smith, Ark. fschristmasparade.eventbrite.com

Next: A double issue of Entertainment Fort Smith includes December and January events On Dec. 1, Entertainment Fort Smith magazine publishes its December/January issue.

The deadline for submitting items to our comprehensive, free community Calendar of Events is Dec. 10. Please remember to report January events for publication as well!

Report events online at efortsmith.com, where there is a prominent tab at the upper right corner inviting you to “Add Event.”

Our online form will prompt you to report all the correct information the magazine requires.

The website automatically sends an email to you to confirm that the event was recorded.

Then, a human editor will approve the event for publication, both online and in the next issue of the magazine. You may submit related photos, which may be used if space permits, by email to lynnwasson@efortsmith.com.

Questions? Technical difficulties? Please give us a call at 479-494-1888 for help.

November 2017

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Fort Smith Public Schools Celebrate Successful Year, Develop Strategies for Future

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t has been a great year in Fort Smith Public Schools, where innovation creates excellence!

• John P. Woods Elementary has been named a 2017-2018 National Blue Ribbon School, one of only three schools in Arkansas and 342 schools in the United States to receive this honor.

• This is the second consecutive year for a Fort Smith Public School to be named a Blue Ribbon School. During the 2016-2017 school year, Euper Lane Elementary School received this prestigious award.

• Mrs. Natasha Shoate, a third-grade teacher at Cavanaugh Elementary School, is one of four finalists for the Teacher of the Year Award for the State of Arkansas.

• Fort Smith Public Schools’ cutting-edge unmanned aerial system (UAS) program, a partnership with University of Arkansas-Fort Smith Applied Sciences and the Arkansas Career and Technical Education Program has kicked off at both of our high schools this year.

• Fort Smith Public Schools continues to secure over $3.9 million in state and federal grants for high-quality preschool programs housed at 17 elementary campuses.

• 69 FSPS high school students, 22 in 2016-17 and 47 in fall 2017, have earned and are earning high school credit in internships at companies as diverse as the Sebastian County Sheriff’s Office and Mercy Medical Center where they acquire knowledge and skills necessary to be productive citizens after graduation. More internships will be available in the second semester.

• Northside High School has received the designation as an Arkansas School of Innovation by the Arkansas Department of Education. This title is based on work completed and the school's ongoing action plan for student achievement and success.

• Ballman and Spradling Elementary Schools received Arkansas Department of Education pilot grants to develop Professional Learning Communities (PLC). These PLC pilot program grants give these schools concentrated access to national resources.

“

Identifying Strengths and Needs In each meeting, I asked participants what they were proud of and what was needed in our district. Some powerful themes emerged. District-wide strengths most often cited included our student-centered philosophy, instructional focus, outstanding staff, fine arts offerings, athletics programs, and community partnerships. Participants also noted strengths within our district related to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math), student internships, and project-based learning.

Participants also shared some ideas about how we can more effectively meet the needs of our students. One key point is that our district needs to help all students to develop plans for their futures and the relevant knowledge and skills needed to achieve their goals. Expansion of opportunities to prepare for entry into the workforce after graduation is an important way to accomplish this.

Our community has also challenged our district to be part of the solution to the growing national student loan crisis.

Arkansas college graduates are carrying over $9 billion in student loan debt. By dramatically expanding opportunities for college-bound students to earn college credit in high school, we will reduce the cost of higher education and allow students to complete higher education programs with less debt. Every fifteen hours of college credit earned in high school saves graduates nearly $7,000 in college tuition. If our college-bound students graduate high school with the skills and credentials needed to secure higher paying jobs while in college, they have a better chance of working their way through school with both valuable experience in the workforce and less debt.

The safety and security of our students has also been highlighted as a priority. We have a strong safety and security program. However, there are additional tools and strategies that should be implemented to reduce

We are listening, learning, and making progress toward development of a new five-year plan for our kids, our schools, and our future.

Entry Plan I am very blessed to have joined this outstanding district as superintendent in January. Over the course of my first 90 days in this role, I focused on building relationships and learning about the strengths and needs of this proud and tradition-rich school system. Through a series of 166 meetings that included thousands of stakeholders such as parents, teachers, students, business leaders, and community members, I learned about the factors that have contributed to the success of Fort Smith Public Schools and the evolving conditions to which we must adapt in order to meet the ever-changing needs of students more effectively.

2 l 2017 FSPS REPORT TO THE PUBLIC

Superintendent Doug Brubaker and School Board President Deanie Mehl present a Superintendent’s Star Award to Allison Velasquez from Morrison Elementary School.

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risk and help keep our students and teachers focused on teaching and learning. Technology must be leveraged more effectively to achieve instructional goals by increasing the degree of its integration into the curriculum in ways that promote student engagement and harness its power as a tool that students routinely use to develop knowledge and skills. Accomplishing this requires, among other things, a fully-funded replacement cycle for student and teacher equipment, a robust network infrastructure, further expansion of reliable and high density wireless service, and an ongoing commitment throughout the district to high quality staff development. With existing resources, we have started to address short-term solutions identified in these areas.

Vision 2023: Strategic Planning With stakeholders drawn from throughout the district, we are also working on long-term solutions for district needs. In May, Fort Smith Public Schools launched Vision 2023, a strategic planning process, with a board retreat followed by series of community meetings in early August. A team of 32 parents, students, educators, business leaders, and residents drawn from a cross-section of our community met over the course of three days later in the month to develop the basis of a new plan to guide our efforts over the next five years.

On September 18, 167 community members formed into seven action teams to begin developing the specific actions, timelines, and performance measures necessary to hold ourselves accountable for realizing our new and shared vision. These teams will continue to work through the month of November on this phase of the project.

While the strategic planning process unfolds, we are also studying the capacity and condition of our facilities, demographic trends, and needs as perceived by the wider community.

Once the entire strategic plan is complete, it will be submitted to the Board as early as December 2017 for its consideration.

In summary, we are listening, learning, and making progress toward development of a new five-year plan for our kids, our schools, and our future. By investing time in establishing effective and collaborative relationships, developing an understanding of existing conditions within the district, and aligning efforts of the administrative team to address the most urgent and important priorities while developing future plans, I believe that we have earned dividends in the form of an environment characterized by trust and mutual respect, a sustained focus on meeting the needs of students, and the foundation needed to plan for the future growth and development of the district. The best is yet to come in Fort Smith Public Schools, and I look forward to working with our community in the coming years to make our new shared vision a reality for the students we serve.

Doug Brubaker, Ph.D. Superintendent of Schools

Highly Qualified Staff

The Arkansas Department of Education is recalibrating school classifications and will release those in the future. Regardless of classification, however, Fort Smith Public School District students are demonstrating growth in particular areas:

• In the “All Students” category for Literacy, 23 schools had an increase in the percentage of students scoring Ready/ Exceeding.

• In the “All Students” category for Math,19 schools had an increase in the percentage of students scoring Ready/Exceeding.

• In the Targeted Achievement Gap Group (TAGG) category for Literacy, which includes students who are economically disadvantaged, English language learners or students with disabilities, 23 schools had an increase in the percentage of students scoring Ready/Exceeding.

• In the “TAGG” category for Math, 18 schools had an increase in the percentage of students scoring Ready/Exceeding.

• In the “All Students” category for Literacy, 14 schools increased their scores by at least 5 percentage points and of those 14 schools, six had gains of more than 10 percentage points.

• In the “All Students” category for Math, 11 schools increased their

scores by at least 5 percentage points, and two schools had gains of more than 10 percentage points.

• In the “All Students” category, 18 schools had growth in both Literacy

Fort Smith Public School teachers participate in a rigorous program of contentfocused professional development each year.

Arkansas licensure requirements mandate 36 hours annually, but teachers accumulate many more than what is required.

Two principals have earned the prestigious Arkansas Master Principal designation.

Eight are in varying stages of the process seeking this professional credential.

In 2016-2017, 108 FSPS teachers had earned the prestigious national Board Certification from the National Board of Professional Teaching Standards. Twenty-one are in the process of obtaining this certification.

In 2016-2017, 100 percent of the 1,190 educators in the District were fully licensed to teach in their subject areas. $55,123.15 was the average teacher salary in 2016-2017.

During the 2016-2017 school year, the certified staff education data demonstrated that 50.76 percent of District educators hold a bachelor’s degree. This number includes teachers who have accumulated up to 36 additional credit hours beyond their undergraduate degree.

Educators holding a master’s through master’s plus 30 hours make up 47.31 percent of the certified staff population. Educators who have earned a doctoral degree equal 1.94 percent of the certified group.

and Math, and 25 in either Literacy or Math.

On the Cover: Natasha Shoate works with third-grader Madeline Alt at Cavanaugh Elementary School.

Photo by Glenn Gilley 2017 FSPS REPORT TO THE PUBLIC l 3

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$100,000 Grant Gives Flight to Unmanned Aerial Systems Programming in FSPS

By Emanuel Pena UAFS Communication Intern

In 2017, the Fort Smith School District made an investment in its students by implementing an unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) pilot program at Northside and Southside high schools. A $100,000 grant from the Arkansas Career Education Program makes the curriculum possible for six Fort Smith schools.

Students and faculty both are enthusiastic about the program, as it allows students to learn a valuable trade while working toward completing their secondary education.

The UAS curriculum is a three-year program students enroll in while they are in junior high. Since the program is in its first year, the participants in the program have yet to build and operate their own drone, but students anticipate doing so by year two or three from 3D printed drone kits. Northside sophomore Daniela Alvarado knows this program is “not normal for high school,” so she applied for the program to take advantage of the opportunity, aware that this is “something she would use in the real world.”

To become fluent in drone operations, instructors spent a week-long session at University of Arkansas-Fort Smith passing a test to obtain their drones license, then formed their curriculum during another week4 l 2017 FSPS REPORT TO THE PUBLIC

long overview at UAFS. Clint Gillman, drone instructor at Northside High School, is already looking forward to collaborating with the Fort Smith workforce to offer internships in STEM and media fields to students during their final year in the program.

Should the students at Northside and Southside who work their way through the UAS pilot program pursue careers in the drone field, they will become part of what is projected by 2020 to be a billion dollar industry, according to Marketsandmarkets research firm.

The program prepares students by assigning exercises ranging from understanding weather reporting to constructing and maintaining unmanned aircrafts.

Dr. Ginni McDonald, Director of Secondary Education, said, “The unmanned aerial systems programs of study at Northside and Southside high schools offer a unique learning experience.

Through a variety of hands-on, relevant activities, students bank a specific skill set that gives them a head start to employment in the latest industrial technology field. Students learn how UAS integrates with logistics (shipping and delivery), geographic mapping, agriculture, law enforcement, rescue operations, aerial photography, and natural disaster supports.

Additionally, students learn how to build, repair, and pilot the UAS. These credentials will give students immediate employment opportunities.”

“

The unmanned aerial systems programs at Northside and Southside may lead people to believe students are just learning to operate a remote vehicle, but they’re going to learn far more. They will learn weather patterns, aviation, map reading, computer programming, robotics, 3D printing, and how to communicate with air traffic control. The UAS program is rigorous, and it will create a lot of STEM career-related options for our students.

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Martin Mahan

Executive Director of Human Resources and FSPS UAS Program initiator

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Teacher of the Year Strives to Challenge Students and Herself

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atasha Shoate, a third-grade teacher at Cavanaugh Elementary School, recently was named one of four 2018 Arkansas Teacher of the Year State Finalists. She also is Fort Smith Public Schools Teacher of the Year.

Shoate, who began her teaching career in the Fort Smith Public Schools, graduated from the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith in 2009 with a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education. She earned her master’s degree in theory and practice from Arkansas State University and is a National Board Certified Teacher.

When she was young, Shoate could often be found playing school with her younger sister, checking out books from the library and helping teach Sunday school at church. She knew even as a youth she wanted to teach.

“In spite of being born with the desire to teach, I cannot deny the impact my parents made on my career choice. Being one of 11 children born in the 1940s, my father spent his time working on a farm. My mother was urged to work in the home and that getting an education was of little importance. Their limited education led them to teach me the value of education and a strong work ethic. With their guidance, I was the first person to receive a college degree on my mother’s side,” Shoate said.

Because of the challenges and encouragement she received as a child, Shoate knows she must challenge her students in a variety of ways.

“One strategy I use is student choice. Students decide how they might tackle a math problem or design their own solution for a STEM project. Highlighting alternative ways to problem solve gives students the opportunity to think out of the box,” she said.

“I facilitate their thinking by helping them move beyond and improve their strategies.”

And just as she continues to challenge her students to pursue new goals, Shoate knows she must continue to pursue her own goals.

“In the future, I plan on obtaining a doctorate degree and becoming a college professor. I've mentored several interns from our local university, UAFS, an have thoroughly enjoyed helping them perfect their craft. Nelson Mandela stated, ‘Education is the most powerful weapon we can use to change the world.’ Whether teaching elementary or college students, my goal is to still touch lives and provide them with something valuable that can never be taken away, an education,” she said.

As a regional finalist, Shoate received a $1,000 award sponsored by the Walton Family Foundation.

“Over the years, I have worked very closely with amazing, hard-working teachers and facilitators throughout the entire district. To represent them is an honor I can’t even put into words.

In college, one of my professors instructed us to record our top three goals for our career in education. Now, after nine years of teaching and receiving this distinction, I have accomplished all three goals. My aspirations have materialized due to my passion for teaching and the support of my colleagues throughout the Fort Smith Public School District,” she said.

Grants Allow Pre-Kindergarten Program to Build Foundation for School Success

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n 2003, Fort Smith Public Schools opened its first pre-kindergarten program. Since that time, with the help of almost $4 million in state and federal grants, the preschool program has grown to include 568 three- and four-year-olds in classrooms in 17 of the 19 district elementary schools.

Fort Smith Public Schools continues to receive grants to expand the preschool program because of two reasons, according to program director Sarah Biggs: • The Arkansas Department of Child Care and Early Childhood Education list Fort Smith as a high priority area. “We have been one of Arkansas’ most underserved areas in regard to serving children from low- and moderate-income families,” Biggs said in a report to the Fort Smith Public Schools Board of Education.

• FSPS preschool program is classified as high-quality because it is a full-day program, follows the school calendar and has a ratio of two staff to 20 students in the classroom.

A teacher with P4 license leads each preschool classroom, Biggs said. And staff implements the Arkansas Early Childhood Education standards, along with Big Day for PreK curriculum.

Each site also has a child care license from the Arkansas Department of Human Services, which means the program is heavily audited by the state.

All classrooms are accredited as Better Beginnings Level 3, which is the highest level an Arkansas child care facility can achieve, she added.

The preschool day starts with breakfast for each student. Breakfast, snack and lunch are all provided free of charge to the children thanks to the grants.

The students then take part in centers that are geared to teaching academic and social kindergarten readiness skills, Biggs said.

“Socialization, literacy, math and STEM are embedded in every aspect (of the day), including centers, gross motor, meal, transition and rest (times),” Biggs said. “The (FSPS preschool) program builds the foundation on which children will build their elementary school success.”

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Internships Open Doors For Students’ Futures

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n the 2016-2017 school year, Fort Smith Public Schools rolled out a new internship program to give students in 11th and 12th grades at both Northside and Southside high schools real world experience in professional fields of their interest.

Students must apply and be accepted to the program. They each earn 180 hours of work experience each semester and are evaluated at the end of the semester by the employer.

The first year, the program saw 22 students learning and growing by working alongside and for professionals in a variety of settings including ArcBest Corp., the U.S. Marshals Museum and Legacy Health and Rehabilitation Center, to name a few.

“This internship helped me reach goals,” said Northside High School graduate Erica Guzman, who participated in the intern program during her senior year, working for Legacy Health and Rehabilitation Center. “The internship program helps you be able to have that experience. Not only is it good for you, it allows you to have that mentality, that mind set. It’s a good program to join.”

The internships also help high school students who may not have a 6 l 2017 FSPS REPORT TO THE PUBLIC

clear idea of a profession they hope to purse after graduation.

“These internships are so beneficial,” Southside High School graduate Taelor Rogers said of her internship at the U.S. Marshals Museum in spring 2017. “They let students have an insight into something they are interested in, allowing them to learn more about something and to find out if it is something they really want to do.”

The number of interns grew to 47 in the fall of 2017. They were placed in internships at companies as diverse as the Sebastian County Sheriff’s Office and Mercy Hospital, where they acquire knowledge and skills necessary to become productive citizens.

“Internships provide a platform for students to apply skills learned inside classrooms to real job sites,” said Dr. Ginni McDonald, director of secondary education for FSPS. “Through internships, students have guidance and support from their schoolbased internship supervisor as well as their site mentor. This support system allows students to receive frequent feedback and modeling in a career field they are interested in pursuing after their high school graduation.”

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Financing Schools Requires Balance

WHAT DOES THE MONEY BUY?

s the educational needs in the Fort Smith Public Schools grow, the challenge of a limited revenue base makes it essential to balance revenue sources against rising costs. From facility needs to staff salaries, making school dollars stretch to cover demands requires a balanced approach that uses many options.

Total Funds

Using a combination of funds from local property taxes, state revenues and federal categorical funds to address the instructional support demands of a complex school program requires the careful attention to detail to assure compliance with all federal and state rules while ensuring an efficient operation. The graphical representation of how revenues and expenditures are allocated reveals the prudent use of resources within mandatory parameters.

The use of a variety of financing tools to support capital needs have allowed FSPS to address facility requirements within the available revenue stream. This practice has maintained and improved the community investment in school buildings while keeping buildings appropriate for today’s needs.

In 2016-17 the District received an unmodified opinion, the best rating possible from independent auditor Przybysz & Associates, CPAs.

FSPS received a total of $40,211.73 from commissions based on a competitive beveragevending contract during 2016-17. These revenues continue to decline as restrictions on the sale of beverages by schools become tighter.

WHAT ARE THE SOURCES OF REVENUE?

EDUCATION OF CHOICE School Completion 2015-16: 35 students were recorded in the Report of the Number of Students Being Removed from the Pupil Attendance Rolls as “Drop-Outs.” This number, which represents 1.07 percent of the FSPS secondary enrollment, includes 25 students who enrolled in the GED program administered through the Fort Smith Public Schools Adult Education Center. The GED pass rate for these students is 80 percent.

Enrollment: In 2016-17, there were 14,407 students enrolled in kindergarten through 12th grade and 536 students enrolled in pre-kindergarten in Fort Smith Public Schools.

School Choice 2016-17: The percentage of students transferring into the FSPS district under the School Choice Act is approximately .0025 percent. Less than .0035 percent exited the District under the same law.

Retention Data: A total of 0.29 percent or 42 students in grades K through 6 were retained.

A total of 12 or 0.08 percent of students in grades 7 and 8 were retained.

Child Nutrition Supervisor Leigh Christian serves breakfast during the summer.

YOUR DOLLAR IN THE FORT SMITH PUBLIC SCHOOLS TEACHING AND LEARNING Classroom Instruction......................55¢ Auxiliary Instruction/Support Services...16¢ • • • • • •

Literacy and Math Specialist Guidance and Counseling Library Media Services Nursing Services Speech/Occupational/Physical Therapy Adult Education/Preschool

Instruction....................................71¢

FSPS meals provide a healthy and affordable way to make sure children get the nutrients essential for success in school, and the summer program provides nutrition through the summer months. FSPS served more than 2.3 million meals during the 2016-2017 school year: 1,597,418 lunches and 783,759 breakfasts. Free breakfast is available to all students. In the 2016-17 school year, 623,666 breakfasts were served in elementary schools and 160,093 in the secondary schools.

PROGRAM SUPPORT School Meal Services.......................5¢ Transportation...............................2¢ Utilities, Maintenance, Central Support....12¢ District and Campus Administration.......6¢ Debt Service.................................3¢ Capital Outlay...............................1¢ Support.......................................29¢ TOTAL.......................................$1.00 2017 FSPS REPORT TO THE PUBLIC l 7

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Dalin Souvannavong and Aliya Syhasombath react to the Young Actors Guild performance of “Uncle Pirate” at Sutton Elementary School. Photo by Glenn Gilley

FSPS Activities

School Board Fact

Athletics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,720 Band . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,423 Cheerleading . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107 Choral Music . . . . . . . . . . . .1,298 Drill Team . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135 JROTC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 280 Orchestra . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 830 Drama . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115 Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5,908

FSPS Board Meetings

Fort Smith Public Schools offer a variety of activities that encourage students to become a part of a group or groups that develop and refine personal and team skills and habits.

These activities also make school more memorable.

Fort Smith Public School Board members documented 109 hours in Arkansas School Board training in 2016-2017. Arkansas ACA 6-13-629 requires that each member attend at least six hours per year. All seven board members have completed this requirement.

The Fort Smith Public School District is governed by a seven-member Board of Education. Four members are elected by zone while three are elected in at-large positions. School board meetings are held on the fourth Monday of each month at 5:30 p.m. in the Service Center Auditorium, located in Building B of the Service Center Complex, 3205 Jenny Lind Road.

Administration

2016-17 School Board

Doug Brubaker, Ph.D. Superintendent of Schools

Deanie Mehl, Ph.D., President Susan McFerran, Vice-President Bill Hanesworth, Secretary

Jeannie Cole Wade Gilkey Yvonne Keaton-Martin Talicia Richardson

P.O. Box 1948 • Fort Smith, AR 72902-1948 • (479)785-2501 • (479)785-1722 fax In compliance with federal nondiscrimination laws, the Fort Smith Public School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, genetic information or disability in its employment and educational practices. If you have questions regarding the professional qualifications of your child’s teachers or paraprofessionals, you are encouraged to ask Martin Mahen, executive director of human resources and support services. • Le invitamos a que hable con la Martin Mahen si usted tiene alguna pregunta sobre las capacitaciones profesionales de los maestros o asistentes de maestros de sus hijos. www.FortSmithSchools.org 8 l 2017 FSPS REPORT TO THE PUBLIC