EDITOR’S NOTES
We believe in being neighborly Wait, what’s this? We’ve already published the May issue of Entertainment Fort Smith. But these times call for a little bit more effort. We decided, maybe for just this once, to try to be extra neighborly and of service to our town. This online-only, digital magazine we’ve called neighborly is published as an update to the May issue – circumstances have changed for some of our community partners, especially restaurants, retail stores and service businesses. We wanted them to be able to tell readers the most current information, as they tentatively return to opening their doors to inside shoppers, diners and customers. They’re all re-opening in such ways as they feel able to try, safely, or as required by law. Let’s help them. Please notice the changes and new messages our local businesses are sharing here. We believe in helping our neighbors in the ways they need. What is a neighbor except a person near you, living in the same place with many of the same needs, aspirations and challenges as you? Especially now, struggling through our lifetime’s longest, ongoing public health emergency, we want to be more genuinely helpful to each other. Let’s respect the directives of our state and city departments of health and the advice and appeals from our local medical caregivers as we continue to patronize our hometown businesses. We are asked by both our state and local leaders and by businesses and workplaces to wash our hands, leave six feet or more of space between our bodies and to wear simple, cloth face masks to protect ourselves and each other. Let’s follow those guidelines with courtesy and caring cooperation.
A digital publication of
online at efortsmith.com
Editorial Staff LYNN WASSON Editor & Publisher lynnwasson@efortsmith.com 479-221-1067 DONNA PAYNE Senior Editor donnapayne@efortsmith.com Contributing Photographers MCFARLAND PHOTOGRAPHY
Advertising Sales LINDA GILHAM Account Executive lgilham@efortsmith.com 479-629-0235 CHARLES G. HUBBARD Corporate Sales charleshubbard@efortsmith.com 479-831-3995
Many people, we hope, will continue to avoid potential exposure as much as they can. Those who take all possible precautions such as wearing masks and gloves correctly, may choose to enjoy a few restaurant meals, make in-store purchases and have necessary, in-person services and appointments. We know that people also choose to buy gifts and home goods, clothes, cars and even new homes. In these pages are the places who want to serve you once again. Please return to taking your trade to them. They do need your business after weeks of diminished commerce. Be aware that certain businesses have been involuntarily closed for weeks, with zero revenue. When you have a need or even a whim for something non-essential, please prioritize locally owned establishments. If wait times are a bit longer or new safety policies less convenient and uncomfortable than before this global health emergency began, please remember this: There’s no one more worthy of your patronage than a business doing its best to serve you as safely as it can. We believe in being neighborly – and we believe in Fort Smith, Greenwood, Van Buren, Alma, Charleston, Roland, Muldrow and all our readership hometowns. Part of what makes us love where we live are the businesses that are owned and staffed by our neighbors. Genuine hometown relationships of mutual benefit and prosperity do not come in shipping cartons. Quality of place, that muchused adage, grows organically from face-to-face interactions, long-nurtured ties, well-earned trust and mutual respect. Let’s be both careful and caring as we go into this transition. Behind your mask, wear a smile. – Lynn Wasson
Subscriptions
Bookkeeping JULIE BERCH HAMILTON accounts@efortsmith.com 479-494-1888 © 2020 eFortSmith.com Media, Inc. efortsmith.com
Single issue $5 back issues or current
ANNUALLY $30 11 issues per year
479-494-1888 to order by phone EFS Subscriptions, P.O. Box 1341, Fort Smith, AR 72902 by check 4
Entertainment Fort Smith
NEIGHBORLY
May 2020
promising hopeful abundant Your new life is our life’s work.
comfy joyful complete
From first tries to first cries, Mercy supports expectant moms and dads at every step of their childbirth journey, and beyond. Get free pregnancy, parenting guides and more at mercy.net/FSPrenatalCare Your life is our life’s work.
May 2020
A digital publication of Entertainment Fort Smith Magazine
Contents
n ighborly Index 2 Fort Smith Public Schools
21 Center for Hearing
5 Mercy Fort Smith
21 First United Methodist Church
3 Warnock Realty
6 Baptist Health Fort Smith 9 Coca Cola
11 April Designer Showcase Ball 13 Crain Hyundai
13 Bancorp South 14 Four Corks 14 Rib Room
13 State Parks open
15 Buffalo Wild Wings
15 Juan’s Mexican Restaurant
23
15 Miss Anna’s
15 Papa’s Pub & Pizzaria
22 Newton’s Jewelers
22 University of Arkansas – Fort Smith 25 Majestic Marble & Granite 25 Paul’s Meat Market 25 In Good Spirits
27 Belle Starr Antiques Mall 27 Sodie’s Wine & Spirits 27 The Reserve
27 Mike’s Furniture Store 27 Yeagers Hardware
28 A-Z Variety
16 Clean Cookin’
29 Allison Sales Flooring
15 Pasta Grill
28 Gaston’s
29 Now & Then Shoppe
16 Ed Walker’s Drive-In
29 Leigh Ridge Townhomes
16 Revel at The Hub
30 The Goods
17 Spuds Nickel & Dime Diner
30 Reid Maddox Massage Therapy
16 The Vault 1905 Sport Grill 16 La Huerta on Garrison 17 The Rialto
17 Rolando’s
17 R. Landry’s
17 Bruce Terri Drive In & Catering
17 Calico County
19 Chapters on Main 19 Designer Again
19 Colquitt Bath Co. 19 Vanity Calls
19 True Grit Running Company 19 Clothologie 20 Bookish 20 Firefly
20 Greenwood Flowers & Gifts
32 Great gardening
21 Universal Travel
15 D’s Family Restaurant
16 Sweet Bay Coffee Co.
23 Get out and grill
21 Salon Elements
20 The Smith
20 Metropolis Hair Studio
20 Dr. Steven Stiles, Optometry
30 Chuck Fawcett Realty
30 D&D Floor Covering
31 Arkansas Oklahoma Gas Co. 31 Methodist Village
33 Luther Stem Pools & Spas
33 Neumeier Nursery & Greenhouses 35 Attitudes Dance
35 Great American Cookies
36 Fort Smith Regional Art Museum 39 KUAF 91.3
39 Edward’s Funeral Home
40 Fort Smith Visitor Center
40 Van Buren A&P Commission
41 Grand Avenue Baptist Church 42 DBKJ Numismatics
42 St. Bartholomew Episcopal Church 43 Cherokee Casino
44 Ashton Place Health & Rehab
On the cover: The mascot of our HomeVid-19 Movie Contest displays the super can-do attitude everyone can follow to enter your own original short videos by May 22.
www.baptist-health.com/bheroes-arkansas/
WAITING will be worth it!
A few of our favorite things have been postponed – here are some we’re looking forward to and when they may happen
The Steel Horse Rally moved its date to Aug. 22-23 after canceling its original early May date.
The Old Fort Days Rodeo and Rodeo Parade is seeking an alternate date after canceling its Memorial Day start.
Graduation ceremonies Local high schools are planning live events at early July dates, pending public health conditions.
Festival and live concerts The Peacemaker Music Festival is still on, so far, for July 24-25. Riverfront Blues Fest will return in 2021.
Live theater and performance All theater groups such as Fort Smith Little Theater and Community School of the Arts
Museums and Historic Sites Our local museums and historic parks and programs are mostly paused, and are missed!
OUR SECRET INGREDIENT ? OUR PEOPLE . WE ARE COCA-COLA BOTTLING OF FORT SMITH - 1 OF 68 IN DEPEN DENT BOT TLER S K EEPIN G TH E CO C A- COL A COM PAN Y LO C AL A C R O S S N E A R LY E V E R Y C O R N E R O F T H E C O U N T R Y. W E ’ R E P R O U D TO B E PAR T OF TH E COM M U NITIE S WE S ERVE .
#COCACOLARENEW
PHOTOS BY GLENN GILLEY
Auctioned Private Dinner Previews A tablescape of simple elegance matches the E. Fay Jones-designed home of Kim and Phil White.
Nadine and honoree Bob Miller have set tatable with her Lalique crystal and trompe l’oeil food sculpture.
PHOTOS BY FRIENDS OF LAKE FORT SMITH
Yes, Arkansas State Parks are open to enjoy while following rules for health and safety
Arkansans love our beautiful state parks in all seasons, but especially enjoy them in this season of early summer. All Arkansas State Parks are available to visitors in a limited capacity during the COVID-19 public health emergency, when visitors follow rules to keep everyone healthy. Here’s what’s happening in our nearest state parks. Lake Fort Smith State Park The Visitor Center, cabins and group facilities are closed. The marina is open only for live bait and fuel sales. Trails are open. Day use areas* are open, excluding the playground. Camping is limited only to guests with private recreational vehicles equipped with self-contained bathroom facilities. All other camping is closed at this time.
Mount Magazine State Park Lodge closed, VIC closed, cabins closed, gift shops are closed, restaurant is closed, trails are open, day-use areas are open, no alcohol sales. Camping is limited to guests only with private recreational vehicles with self-contained bathroom facilities. All other camping is closed at this time.
Devil's Den State Park The Visitor Center, gift shop and boat rental are closed. Some trails are open. Cabins are closed. Day use areas* are open, excluding the playground. The Fossil Flats Mountain Bike Trail and Yellow Rock Trail are closed. Camping is limited only to guests with private recreational vehicles equipped with self-contained bathroom facilities. All other camping is closed.
Queen Wilhelmina State Park Lodge closed, gift shop is closed, restaurant is closed, trails are open, day use areas* are open excluding playground, no alcohol sales. Camping is limited to guests only with private recreational vehicles with selfcontained bathroom facilities. All other camping is closed at this time.
Lake Ouachita State Park Visitor Center closed, cabins closed, trails are open, marina open only for live bait and fuel sales, day use areas* are open excluding playground and beaches. Camping is limited to guests only with private recreational vehicles with self-contained bathroom facilities. All other camping is closed at this time.
Biking
Geo-Caching
In all parks: *Day use area may include: Picnic sites, open-air pavilions, boat ramps, fishing piers, tennis courts, volleyball court, basketball courts, playgrounds (closed), beach (non-lifeguard), trails and overlooks, lakes and rivers. All guests from New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, the city of New Orleans and all international locations are advised to selfquarantine by the Arkansas Department of Health.
Kayaking
There is plenty to do for every age and every interest. From left, wild mountain biking at Lake Fort Smith, a family geo-cache hunting and a kayak adventure on Lake Ouachita. Please maintain a courteous and healthy distance from other park visitors and if an area is crowded, choose another day or another park area to visit. Overcrowding at popular areas can cause park closures. Check arkansasstateparks.com for daily information. 12 Entertainment Fort Smith NEIGHBORLY May 2020
Mobile Wallet for BancorpSouth is a fast and secure way to keep pace with your lifestyle. It’s easy to turn your mobile device into a digital wallet – whether you shop online, in apps or in stores. To learn more about Mobile Wallet features and benefits, visit:
BancorpSouth.com/MobileWallet
DO YOU MAKE MOBILE WALLET PART OF YOUR DAILY ROUTINE? It’s fast, secure and flexible.
8 Area Locations to Serve You
(479) 785-4700
©2019 BancorpSouth. All Rights Reserved.
•Not available for BancorpSouth VISA credit card, Mastercard Business debit or credit card, or HSA customers. • Only available for Mastercard personal debit cards or credit cards issued by BancorpSouth. • Not all retailers accept mobile wallet payments. Look for the symbol or icon representing the mobile wallet app you use prior to making purchases. • Additionally, the retailer must also accept Mastercard. • Availability of your mobile wallet may be affected by your mobile carrier’s coverage area. Your mobile carrier’s message and data rates may apply. Member FDIC
May 2020
Entertainment Fort Smith
NEIGHBORLY
13
DINING A Guide to Our Local Restaurants 14
Entertainment Fort Smith
NEIGHBORLY
May 2020
DINING GUIDE
May 2020
Entertainment Fort Smith
NEIGHBORLY
15
DINING GUIDE
16
Entertainment Fort Smith
NEIGHBORLY
May 2020
DINING GUIDE
May 2020
Entertainment Fort Smith
NEIGHBORLY
17
May 2020
Entertainment Fort Smith
NEIGHBORLY
19
20
Entertainment Fort Smith
NEIGHBORLY
May 2020
May 2020
Entertainment Fort Smith
NEIGHBORLY
21
Graduate Degrees for the Real
World
Master of Science in Healthcare Administration (100% Online)
Master of Education (Flexible Hybrid) The University of Arkansas – Fort Smith’s graduate programs are designed to fit the needs of today’s working adult. Our online and hybrid courses offer flexibility to fit your busy schedule. The flexibility you need, the quality you expect and the affordability you desire – all from the university you trust. Find out more by visiting uafs.edu/graduatestudies.
22
Entertainment Fort Smith
NEIGHBORLY
May 2020
WHAT’S COOKING
Take It Outside! Rules to Grill By Choose Your Protein Selecting quality protein is the starting place for an exceptional grilled meal. For example, the ribeye is the most well-marbled steak, meaning it's super juicy, rich with beefy flavor and excellent on the grill. Prepare the Grill Always start with clean grill grates. Heat your gas grill to high or start your charcoal 10-15 minutes before you grill. Dip a paper towel in oil using tongs and oil your grill grates before adding steaks for a great sear.
Control Your Cook Keep the grill cover closed as much as possible to maintain a temperature of around 450 F. This helps lock in flavor and prevent flare-ups. Remember the marbling on a ribeye means more fat, which melts during cooking. This is a good thing, but you may experience more dripping or flare-ups if you're used to grilling leaner steaks. To minimize the need to open the grill cover, determine the amount of time you'll need to reach your desired doneness then use the 60-40 grilling method. Grill 60 percent on the first side then 40 percent after you turn the steak.
Prepare the Meat Pat steaks dry with a clean paper towel and season them before they hit the grill. You can't go wrong with simple sea salt and cracked pepper, but creative recipes can add a special twist.
Let it Rest A resting time of at least 5 minutes allows steak juices to redistribute for the best eating experience. A foil tent can help regulate temperature during the resting period.
Sear and Crust Cook steaks directly over your heat source to get a tasty, crunchy sear on the outside of the steak. This is where the best flavor comes from, and it offers a delicious contrast to the rich, juicy inside of the cut.
Garnish and Flavor Whether you're grilling vegetables, sauteing onions or adding a different kind of sweet or savory topping, just before you serve is the right time to garnish your steak.
BUTTERY GRILLED SWEET POTATOES 4 tbsp. butter, melted 1 tbsp. onion burger seasoning 2 lbs. sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into wedges Heavy duty aluminum foil Mix butter and seasoning in large bowl. Add sweet potatoes; toss to coat evenly. Place sweet potatoes in center of foil. Bring up sides of foil; double fold top and ends to tightly seal packet. Grill over medium-high heat 30 to 35 minutes or until potatoes are tender, turning packet over halfway through cook time. May 2020
Entertainment Fort Smith
NEIGHBORLY
23
WHAT’S COOKING
GRILLED CHICKEN AND PINEAPPLE SKEWERS W/LEMON-CUCUMBER SALAS Skewers 8 skewers 1 pineapple 2 tbsp. vegetable oil 1/2 tsp. salt 1 tsp. black pepper 1 3/4 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into 1-inch pieces Salsa 1 lemon, supremed 1 cucumber, diced 1/2 red onion, diced 1 tbsp. honey 1 tsp. black pepper Soak wooden skewers for 15 minutes prior to grilling. Heat grill to medium-high heat. Remove rind from pineapple and dice into 1-inch pieces. In small bowl, combine oil, salt and pepper. Add chicken and pineapple; toss to coat. Alternating chicken and pineapple, pierce onto skewers. Grill skewers 8 minutes each side, or until chicken is cooked thoroughly. Lemon-Cucumber Salsa: In medium bowl, combine lemon, cucumber, onion, honey and pepper. Serve over cooked chicken skewers.
EASY CHEESY BURGERS 2 lbs. ground turkey 1 tsp. kosher salt 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese 8 sesame seeds buns, warmed Heat grill or griddle to medium heat. In large bowl, gently combine ground turkey and salt. Shape ground turkey into eight balls. Cover with plastic. Mix mozzarella and cheddar to create eight piles of shredded cheese, each between 1/4-1/3 cup. Grill patties 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through. Always cook to well-done (165 F) as measured by a meat thermometer. Once patties are cooked through, place on aluminum foil-lined baking sheet. Top patties with shredded cheese and place under broiler 3-5 minutes; cook until cheese is bubbly. Place patties on warmed buns. Add ketchup and mustard, if desired. 24
Entertainment Fort Smith
NEIGHBORLY
May 2020
WHAT’S COOKING
GRILLING l
GAS OR RED HOT CHARCOAL
RARE
THICKNESS
120-130 degrees
MEDIUM RARE 130-140 degrees
Heat grill on high, 500-600 F. Lightly oil and season steaks. Cook steaks covered. Rest 3-5 minutes before serving.
MEDIUM
140-150 degrees
WELL DONE 160-170 degrees
FIRST SIDE
AFTER TURNING
FIRST SIDE
AFTER TURNING
FIRST SIDE
AFTER TURNING
FIRST SIDE
AFTER TURNING
1/2”
2 min
2 min
3 min
2 min
4 min
2 min
5 min
3 min
3/4”
4 min
2 min
4 min
3 min
5 min
3 min
7 min
5 min
1”
5 min
3 min
5 min
4 min
6 min
4 min
8 min
6 min
11⁄4”
5 min
4 min
6 min
5 min
7 min
5 min
9 min
7 min
11⁄2”
6 min
4 min
7 min
5 min
7 min
6 min
10 min
8 min
13⁄4”
7 min
5 min
8 min
6 min
8 min
7 min
11 min
9 min
6 min
9 min
8 min
10 min
8 min
13 min
11 min
2”
8 min
May 2020
Entertainment Fort Smith
NEIGHBORLY
25
HOME
Four steps to keep in line with home remodeling projects
W
hether you’re thinking about a bathroom update, kitchen overhaul or any other type of home improvement project, these tips from the experts at the National Association of the Remodeling Industry and eLivingtoday.com can help you get started. Create a Plan Improving your home can be one of the most exciting projects to undertake. Start by setting realistic expectations, determining your goals and needs, finding inspiration and, perhaps most importantly, setting a budget.
Renovate the Bathroom You can improve your home’s usability and increase its value with bathroom updates or a full renovation. Before you get started, think about these factors: the amount of space and storage you need, features that are important to you, sustainability concerns and accessibility considerations. Update the Kitchen The kitchen serves as command-central for most homes, and you can get the most enjoyment out of yours by making purposeful changes, reconsidering the physical space, re-evaluating your shopping style and choosing appliances with care. Start a Remodel If it’s time for a serious undertaking, a full-blown remodel may be necessary (or simply desired). Remodeling typically calls for hiring a professional contractor, a process you can go about by gathering local recommendations, asking for licensing and insurance, checking references and comparing bids. Find more home improvement ideas and solutions at remodelingdoneright.com. Source: National Association of the Remodeling Industry 26
Entertainment Fort Smith
NEIGHBORLY
May 2020
May 2020
Entertainment Fort Smith
NEIGHBORLY
27
HOME
Energy-efficient ideas to upgrade your home
E
nergy bills are likely among the largest expenses for homeowners, but you can take action to lower those costs. During a remodel, a certified contractor can help you make smart decisions when it comes to selecting appliances, windows and insulation for your projects. Learn how you can reduce your home's energy reliance and environmental impact with these tips from the experts at the National Association of the Remodeling Industry: Heating and Cooling A programmable thermostat is a simple starting point and can save up to one-third of heating and cooling costs. Additional ways to save energy include sealing leaky ducts, cleaning or changing air filters regularly and replacing your furnace or air conditioner with an energy-efficient model.
Insulation Studies show that only 20 percent of homes built before 1980 were well-insulated. Adding insulation in the attic and walls can be one of the fastest and most cost-effective ways to reduce energy waste. Not only does better insulation reduce energy loss and improve comfort, it's an upgrade that generally adds to the value of your home with an estimated 95 percent return on your investment. Windows High-performance windows not only lower heating and cooling bills, they also reduce heat gain during warmer months and add a layer of insulation when you need to keep the heat inside. Triple-pane, Low-E insulated frame windows can save 33 percent of the heating cost for a typical home in cooler climates, and in hotter environments, double-pane, low solar-gain windows can reduce cooling costs by up to 32 percent. Appliances The refrigerator is a major energy drain, accounting for up to 15 percent of the energy bill in some homes, particularly models that are 15 years old or older. Design plays a major role in a refrigerator's efficiency; it needs adequate air flow for optimal function. Be realistic about your needs and only buy as big a unit as you require. As with any appliance, shop for a model that offers as many energy-saving features as you can afford. Find more tips for creating a more energy-efficient home at remodelingdoneright.com. 28
Entertainment Fort Smith
NEIGHBORLY
May 2020
May 2020
Entertainment Fort Smith
NEIGHBORLY
29
HOME
30
Entertainment Fort Smith
NEIGHBORLY
May 2020
HOME
Upgrade Your Outdoor Space ome improvement projects aren't limited to indoors. In fact, not only can upgrades to areas outside the house expand your livable space, they also can increase your home's value. Outdoor living projects account for almost onethird of renovation projects, according to a survey conducted by the National Association of the Remodeling Industry. The findings echo trends reported by the National Kitchen and Bath Association, which found 43 percent of respondents said they designed outdoor kitchens in the past year and 41 percent expected an increase in outdoor projects in the coming year. Custom-built and prefabricated kitchens are also in high demand, along with recreation features like putting greens, bocce ball and basketball courts. Hardscape features that add function and ambiance top many homeowners' lists, as well. Examples include fire pits and fire tables, as well as water features like fountains, waterfalls, basalt columns and bubbling urns. Creating the ideal outdoor living space requires planning and a holistic approach to landscaping. Typically, when people consider landscaping, they think of plants and flowers. However, landscaping includes a wide range of elements in an outdoor design that can generally be grouped into two main categories: hardscape and softscape. The hardscape encompasses the man-made elements that bring function and aesthetic appeal to the design – concrete pavers, natural stone features, seating and retaining walls, decks, pergolas, fencing and synthetic lawns. Softscape elements include the grass, shrubs, trees, flowers and plants. Your softscape may also include enhancements like mulch and an irrigation system to help care for the vegetation. Although the hardscape and softscape elements are distinct, an effective landscape design integrates both to create the look and feel you want for your outdoor living space. Once you've considered the landscaping features necessary to bring your vision to life, it's time to get your project in motion. Set a budget and consider whether you will need professional support to make your design ideas a reality. A remodeling expert can guide you on how to achieve the look you desire with your home's unique characteristics in mind, while helping manage your timeline and expenses. Find more remodeling advice and contractors in your community at remodelingdoneright.com.
H
May 2020
Entertainment Fort Smith
NEIGHBORLY
31
GARDENING
Ageratum
Basil
Lemon Thyme
Lavender
Fight the patio vampires with skeeter-repellant plants
M
osquitoes, the scourge of the backyard barbecue and the gardener! These little patio vampires not only are annoying, they are a health hazard capable of carrying West Nile virus and heart worms for animals. Before covering yourself and your children with a chemical spray that can be harmful, consider planting mosquito-repelling plants in your garden. Most of these plants exude an odor the little blood suckers dislike. These common and easy-to-grow plants will help keep the mosquitoes away and beautify your life, as well as add fresh herbs to your meals. Some of these plants have the added benefit of attracting hummingbirds – who love to eat mosquitoes.
Grow your own Mosquito Repellant Geraniums, yes, these beautiful plants with season-long blooms, are one of my favorites. They can be found in many colors and make an attractive 32
Entertainment Fort Smith
NEIGHBORLY
May 2020
addition to any garden. They can be planted in garden beds or grown in pots and moved inside when the temperature turns cold. They just keep on blooming. Honeysuckle vines, which have come a long way from the roadside varieties, are now sold in attractive colors and could be planted on an arbor or garden fence. Honeysuckles are beneficial because they attract hummingbirds. We all love watching these beautiful birds come to our feeders but did you know roughly a third of their diet consists of insects and they particularly love mosquitoes? Since they must consume half their weight in food each day, that can add up in our battle. Marigolds: These easy-to-grow, pleasant yellow and orange flowers can be planted in beds or hanging baskets. Savvy gardeners have long used marigolds as companion plants in vegetable gardens to repel pests that eat the foliage or veggies. Turns out they have the same effect on mosquitoes. Do not rub marigolds on your skin – some people are sensitive.
GARDENING Basil: A pot of basil sitting on your patio is not only wonderful to cook with but has a mild deterrent quality – maybe not the best repellant but certainly one of the most pleasant to be around. Rubbing a few leaves on your skin has a mosquito-discouraging effect. Lavender is one of my favorite fragrant plants, although it is a bit tricky to grow. I think it’s worth the trouble as it has many uses other than bug repellant. Native to the Mediterranean, I have found it enjoys good drainage and will grow in semi-dry conditions. Rosemary, an attractive culinary herb, has long been known to repel fleas and it also works for mosquitos. A great idea is to throw a few sprigs on the grill when you are cooking. The same is true of culinary sage. It is easy to grow and if you grow ornamental sage, you get the added benefit of attracting pollinators. Ageratum is a lovely, muted blue annual bedding plant that can take semi shade and is even used in some perfumes. It is readily available for sale. This is one plant you don’t want to rub on your skin. It can cause unpleasant itching. Lemon Thyme is easy to grow and if you get the cascading creeping thyme, you can tuck it into the side of your geranium pots for added interest. A study by The University of Ontario showed that crushed leaves of lemon thyme had 60 percent of the repellency of its nasty brother, the chemical repellant Deet. Catnip. Here is the real winner. Researchers at the University of Iowa found the essential oil of Catnip Nepetalactone is 10 times more effective than Deet at repelling mosquitos. Catnip is a short-lived perennial that is easy to grow from seed but is also available as a bedding plant. Its leaves make a soothing tea. Of course, there are many more plants that repel mosquitoes. These are a few that I have found will thrive in our area. You can grow these plants in pots placed around your outdoor living area or grow them out in your garden. When we are doing our best to keep poisons off of the foods we, and our children, eat it only makes sense to try and avoid spraying them on our bodies. Perhaps it takes a combination of natural repellants and a topical spray to keep you unbitten. If you are as delicious as I apparently am, add a sprig of some of these bite-fighting plants behind an ear, in a shirt pocket or in the barbecue apron. Maybe other humans will be attracted to you for smelling wonderful. – Reba Mize May 2020
Entertainment Fort Smith
NEIGHBORLY
33
KIDS
34
Entertainment Fort Smith
NEIGHBORLY
May 2020
KIDS
KID FRIENDLY RECIPES
PEANUT BUTTER, BANANA & DRIED CRANBERRY ROLL-UPS 1/4 cup peanut butter 2 (8-inch) whole grain flour tortillas 1/4 cup dried cranberries 1 medium banana, sliced lengthwise into quarters For each roll-up, spread about 2 tablespoons peanut butter over one tortilla. Sprinkle with 2 tablespoons dried cranberries. Place 2 banana quarters parallel to each other about 1/3 from each edge. Roll up tortilla. Slice in half. Serve immediately.
MINI PIZZA QUICHES 2 large tortilla wraps 4 eggs Chopped vegetables (optional) 6 slices salami Salami 3 cherry tomatoes, halved, plus extra to serve Basil leaves Heat oven to 350 degrees. Using a small plate, cut circles from the large tortilla wraps – you should get 6. Use the circles to line 6 holes of a muffin tin, pushing them into the holes to make cases. Beat the eggs and pour into the tortilla cases (you can add some chopped vegetables, if you like). Top each case with a slice of salami and 1/2 a cherry tomato. Bake for 15 minutes until the egg has set. Top with a few basil leaves and serve with extra tomatoes and vegetable sticks.
May 2020
Entertainment Fort Smith
NEIGHBORLY
35
KIDS CRAFT
Coffee Filter Butterflies Supplies: Dot markers, coffee filters, pipe cleaners, wooden clothespins, spray bottle filled with water and craft glue.
Directions: Smooth a coffee filter over a plate, pie pan, or stack of newspapers and dab the coffee filter with markers. Spray with waer and allow the filter to dry completely.
When the coffee filter is dry, scrunch the middle of it into a butterfly shape and secure with a clothespin.
Cut a small length of pipe cleaner, then fold it into a V shape to make antennae for the butterfly. Slide the pipe cleaner into the clothespin. If desired, secure the clothespin with a small dot of tacky craft glue.
36
Entertainment Fort Smith
NEIGHBORLY
May 2020
PURCHASE YOUR COPY TODAY OF OUR
LANDMARKS COLORING BOOK $15 A unique, 24-page coloring book drawn by local artists, who will be compensated. To purchase a copy, email “Coloring Book” to accounts@efortsmith.com to make arrangements to pay by credit or debit card. Or send $15 by check to Entertainment Fort Smith, P.O. Box 1341, Fort Smith, AR 72902 This collectible coloring book has a limited first printing. Order today!
ENTERTAINMENT
Lights, smartphones, action! Enter your own “Homevids” Have you watched to the end of Netflix? Make your own entertainment!
Here are the simple rules: • Submissions are open from May 1-22.
We challenge readers to make their own “HomeVids” for a contest held in partnership with the River Valley Film Society and the Times Record.
• Videos must be 1-5 minutes in length. • Limit 1 submission per category per person.
We invite everyone to submit 1- to 5-minute videos (made with smartphones and cameras) by May 22. Categories are Comedy, Action, Pets, Covid-19 Documentary and films made by young directors under 17. Winners will be recognized in both publications and the winning video will be made available online. Viewers will be invited to vote for a Readers’ Choice award. The River Valley Film Society's judges will narrow down the entries to the top finalists, then the public will vote on their favorites. Judges will select a “Best Picture” and other awards. Obey all directives of social distancing and safety while making these films, which should also be PG.
38
Entertainment Fort Smith
NEIGHBORLY
May 2020
• You must be the original artist – the one who took the video, and the editor, if applicable. • You must reside in the River Valley area. • No copyrighted music in videos. Upload videos at swtimes.com, where a prominent link to the contest upload page will be found. The judges will be looking for originality over technical skills. Even if it is your first time to try making a video, you can make a masterpiece by writing a script, planning the action and rehearsing before filming. Get to know the video function of your smartphone, watch a few tutorials online and become an accomplished director!
ENTERTAINMENT
Call not made yet on fest Fort Smith’s PeaceMaker Music Festival planners ask the community to do our best to social distance so we can ‘flatten the curve’ and get back to listening to live music. So far, the festival has not moved its July 24-25 dates for its festival at Fort Smith’s Harry E. Kelly RiverPark. A line-up of Whiskey Meyers, Koe Wetzel, Hold My Beer and Watch This (Randy Rogers and Wade Bohen), The Band of Heathens and Read Southall is planned with more acts possibly to be added. Keep up with PeaceMaker news at peacemakerfest.com
FEAST YOUR EARS. KUAF
Rodeo postponed but new date sought On May 6, the Old Fort Days Rodeo announced it would seek an alternate date for the week-long annual rodeo, which traditionally begins with a Memorial Day downtown parade. Via social media, rodeo officials said, “The decision to look for an alternate date is based on the need to coordinate all the players in such an event ... This was not a decision reached by the committee but dictated by the Governor. With gatherings limited to 50 people as of now, it was extremely necessary to have an alternate plan.� The committee asked rodeo fans and volunteers to hold onto their hats. “There WILL be a rodeo unless something changes. We depend on you and greatly appreciate your support and understanding,� they wrote online. May 2020
Entertainment Fort Smith
NEIGHBORLY
39
ENTERTAINMENT
gg star ofthe western frontier
riverfront skate & bike park
world renowned public art
Drive-in movie experience continues at Chaffee Crossing
# Exp Ex Experience Experienc Experien Experie Experi Exper Expe F ort or ortSmith ortSmit ortSmi ortSm ortS
lake fort smith state park
arkansas river fishing
ben geren bike trails
Fo Smith For Fort S Sm Smi Smit i full is f of fu ful o open-air o op ope open openopen-a open-ai a ad adv adve adven advent adventu adventur adventure adventures a an a and ac act acti activ activi activit activiti activitie activities activities! E Ex Exp Expl Explo Explor Explore ag gr gro grow growi growin growing ccollection co col coll colle collec collect collecti collectio of public of p pu pub publ publi a and ar art a enjoy an e en enj enjo s se sel self selfself-g self-gu self-gui self-guid self-guide self-guided w wa wal walk walki walkin walking t to tou tour tours a ai aid aide aided b QR-ready by Q QR QRQR-r QR-re QR-rea QR-read h hi his hist histo histor histori historic p pl pla plaq plaqu plaque plaques plaques, do downtown downtow downto downt down dow downtown. A Ac Acr Acro Acros Across t to tow town town, B Geren Be Ben G Ge Ger Gere P Pa Par Park b bo boa boas boast boasts 1 miles 14 14+ m mi mil mile o mountain of m mo mou moun mount mounta mountai b bi bik biki bikin biking biking. A An And ne nearb near nea nearby points-of-interest po poi poin point points pointspoints-o points-of points-ofpoints-of-i points-of-in points-of-int points-of-inte points-of-inter points-of-intere points-of-interes p like lil Lake lik L La Lak Fort F Smith Fo For S Sm Smi Smit State S St Sta Stat Park P Pa Par are a just ar j a short ju jus s sh sho shor drive d dr dri driv away. a aw awa away
experiencefortsmith.com
|
@ExperienceFortSmith
@ExpFortSmith
- 2 N. B St. CCa a (800) 637-1477 | Ema Em info@experiencefs.com | Visitor Email Emai Vi Visito Visit Visi Vis Center Ce Cen Cent Cente C
A temporary drive-in theater has arisen at Fort Smith Brewing Co. at Chaffee Crossing, produced with the River Valley Film Society. By reservation only, a limited number of carloads of people may view films from the parking lot. Multiple screenings are scheduled May 9 with the films “Turkey Bowl,” “Abominable Secret Life of Pets 2” and “Rocketman.” A local film will be screened before each feature. Facebook - Fort Smith Brewing Company for rules and details.
Fort Smith Symphony moves final 2020 concert to February “The Sounds of Hitchcock,” originally scheduled as the final concert of the 2019-20 symphony season, will be performed Feb. 28. “North by Northwest” will be an exciting musical and cinematic program that screens the film with the full orchestra performing the score. More news about season tickets and the upcoming 2020-2021 symphony year can be found at fortsmithsymphony.org. The page also offers season ticket renewals, links to performances of past concerts, short music videos and more.
Season of Entertainment ticket holders will see “Buddy” Nov. 9 The UAFS Season of Entertainment’s final Broadway touring show, “Buddy, The Buddy Holly Story,” has been set for Nov. 9 at the Fort Smith Buddy Convention Center. Tickets purchased for the original date will be honored, according the UAFS Box Office. Box Office staff are working from home but will respond to messages and inquiries left at Facebook or at boxoffice@uafs.edu. 40
Entertainment Fort Smith
NEIGHBORLY
May 2020
ENTERTAINMENT
Authors make virtual appearances for book talks at local bookstore Bookish, an indie shop for folks who read, has flexed with the times to offer curbside service, books read aloud online and any other innovation to help patrons and serve the community. The small but mighty bookstore in Brunwick Place is also holding “Reader Meet Writer,” an author series, to continue its popular author talks, live and virtually. RSVP by clicking "GOING" on the Facebook “Event.” Bookish will message you a link to join the live talk. May 12 Mary Kay Andrews author of Hello Summer, 4 p.m. May 13 Katy Simpson Smith author of The Everlasting, 3 p.m. May 14 Susan Beckham Zurenda author of Bells for Eli, 3 p.m. May 19 Mary Alice Monroe author of On Ocean Boulevard, 2 p.m. May 20 Carter Sickels author of The Prettiest Star, 2 p.m. May 21 Yaffa S. Santos author of A Taste of Sage, 2 p.m. May 26 Genevieve Hudson author of Boys of Alabama, 4 p.m. Find the latest scheduling at the store’s Facebook page. Should any of these author appearances switch back to in-person visits, Bookish will announce the change online. Bookish, an indie shop for folks who read, 115 N. 10th, Suite H-119-C, Fort Smith, Ark. 42
Entertainment Fort Smith
NEIGHBORLY
May 2020