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OUR SOLUTION
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Welcome to your dream home! This beautiful 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom duplex is located in the heart of a peaceful and family-friendly neighborhood. With 1,250 square feet of living space, this property offers both comfort and style, perfect for growing families or anyone seeking a spacious living environment.
OCTOBER
TThere’s a certain magic to October. Front porches glow with pumpkins, the scent of spice drifts from kitchens, and cheers and laughter carry from football fields to festival grounds. Across Arkansas, the hills ignite with fiery reds and golds, reminding me that fall is both fleeting and unforgettable.
Inside this issue, you’ll find stories of resilience, creativity, and connection. We caught up with Marty Clark, president at BHC Insurance, and learned how he’s brought the company back into family hands, creating opportunities for employees and setting the stage for future growth. You’ll also meet Kris Scott of Sewtown, whose journey through illness has revealed a deep well of strength, love, and faith.
Fall wouldn’t be complete without adventure, and we’ll take you there! From the Hillberry Music Festival, where tie-dye and jamgrass fill the Ozark Mountains, to the scenic escapes of Rivercrest Orchard and the many pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and overlooks that define autumn in Arkansas. We also shine a light on Chef Tommy Lawyer at BluPoint Seafood and Steak, who is raising the bar for fine dining in Fort Smith with bold flavors.
And because every season needs something sweet, we share the artistry of Yuri Richardson of Rich Creations, who transforms butter, sugar, and flour into edible masterpieces that bring joy to every celebration.
Of course, October is also about comfort food, and we’ve included recipes perfect for the season. We’ve got a hearty chili for game day, an apple cider sangria for cozy evenings, and a decadent Maple-Bourbon Pecan Cheesecake that takes dessert to a whole new level.
In the midst of these comforts, I can’t help but reflect on the world beyond our kitchens and celebrations. Recent events in our country have been both horrific and wrong, leaving families forever changed. It grieves me to see us tearing one another down instead of lifting each other up. Yet I still believe this: kindness and open conversations rooted in respect are the way forward.
As the days grow shorter and nights turn cool, I hope you carve out time for family, friends, and the simple joys that make this season special.
OCTOBER 2025
OWNER
PUBLISHER - EDITOR
Catherine Frederick
COPY EDITING
Charity Chambers
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Jessica Meadors
Meadors Creative Co.
PHOTOGRAPHY
Jade Graves Photography
CONTRIBUTING
WRITERS
Marla Cantrell, Marian Conrad, Catherine Frederick, Dwain Hebda, Sara Putman, Bob Robinson, Dr. Kendall Wagner
ADVERTISING
Catherine Frederick
479.782.1500
catherine@dosouthmagazine.com
1. Jennifer’s Gift Shop at Baptist Health Fort Smith 2. Black Bison Gift Shop 3. The Potting Shed 4. Kopper Kettle Candies 5. Meregold 6. Now & Then Shoppe 7. Parks Brothers Garden Center
Garrison
OCTOBER EVENTS
OCTOBER 3-5 & 10-12, 12-5P / FORTSMITHHOMEBUILDERS.COM
PARADE OF HOMES & SHOWCASE HOME
Home Oct. 3-12:
911 Bodey Street, Barling
OCTOBER 3, 6:30P / GETREALU.ORG HAVANA NIGHTS
U.S. Marshals Museum, Fort Smith
*BenefitingGETREALU
OCTOBER 4, 2 & 7P / WABALLET.ORG
WESTERN ARKANSAS BALLET
PRESENTS: PATTERNS IN THE DUST
King Opera House, Van Buren
OCTOBER 4, 9A-12P / FACEBOOK DIG IN AND GROW ON!
Grace Community Church, Fort Smith
OCTOBER 4, 9:30A / FACEBOOK PAINT CHAFFEE PINK
ACHE Celebration Garden, Barling
OCTOBER 4, 9A – 4P / FORTSMITHFALLFEST.COM FORT SMITH FALL FESTIVAL
Downtown Fort Smith
OCTOBER 5, 4-6P / FACEBOOK AUTUMN VIBES GARDEN PARTY
Antioch Community Garden, Fort Smith
*BenefitingArkansasClimateLeague
OCTOBER 6, 11:30A / PROJECTCOMPASSIONINC.COM
CHARITY GOLF CLASSIC
Ben Geren Golf Course, Fort Smith
*BenefitingProjectCompassion
OCTOBER 6, 8A & 1P / ARKANSASTRUEVISION.COM
GOLFING FOR KIDS TOURNAMENT
Hardscrabble Country Club, Fort Smith *BenefitingATVCH
OCTOBER 9-11 / ARTSONMAINVB.COM
JUNIE B. JONES THE MUSICAL JR.
King Opera House, Van Buren
OCTOBER 10-11 / PEACEMAKERFEST.COM
PEACEMAKER FESTIVAL
Riverfront Amphitheater, Fort Smith
OCTOBER 11-12 / OLDTOWNVANBUREN.COM
VAN BUREN FALL FESTIVAL
Downtown Van Buren
OCTOBER 14, 6P / FORTSMITHCONVENTIONCENTER.ORG
BLIPPI: JOIN THE BAND TOUR!
Fort Smith Convention Center, Fort Smith
OCTOBER 14, 6P / KINGOPERAHOUSE.COM
$5 MOVIE: THE PRINCESS DIARIES
King Opera House, Van Buren
OCTOBER 16, 6P / KINGOPERAHOUSE.COM
$5 MOVIE: PRACTICAL MAGIC
King Opera House, Van Buren
OCTOBER 17, 7P / FORTSMITHCONVENTIONCENTER.ORG BINGO LOCO
Oct. 10: Opening Receptions: Michael Warrick and Panama Middle-High School
To October 5: Susan Chambers
To January 11: Oluwatobi Adewumi
To January 11: Liz Whitney Quisgard
Oct. 17: Paint N’ Sip, 5:30p
LEVITT AMP MUSIC SERIES
MAINSTREETFS.ORG
6-9p / Harry E. Kelly Park, Fort Smith
Oct. 2: Nu-Blu
Oct. 9: Shamarr Allen, *The Bakery District, Fort Smith
Oct. 16: Carver Commodore
Oct. 23: Alto Moon, 6-9p
UAFS ATHLETICS
UAFORTSMITHLIONS.COM
LIONS VOLLEYBALL
Oct. 3: Central Missouri, 6p
Oct. 4: Missouri Southern, 1p
Oct. 9: Missouri Western State, 6p
Oct. 10: Northwest Missouri State, 1p
Oct. 14: U of A Monticello, 6p
Oct. 22: Central Arkansas, 6p
words DO SOUTH // images SUN OK SHUTTERSTOCK
October in Arkansas is pure magic. Pumpkins line the fields, corn mazes invite adventure, and the state’s hills blaze with fiery color. Get out there; fall is waiting to be discovered!
PUMPKIN PATCHES & CORN MAZES
FROG BAYOU FARMS
Alma, AR I frogbayoufarms.com
Just a short drive from Fort Smith, Frog Bayou Farms packs in all the fall fun. Pick pumpkins, wind through a corn maze, zip down a line over the patch, and hop on hayrides. With duck races, hay tunnels, and friendly farm animals, they make seasonal traditions memorable.
FARMLAND ADVENTURES
Springdale, AR I farmlandadventures.com
Farmland Adventures offers more than pumpkins, it’s a fall destination with a giant corn maze, wagon rides, and friendly barnyard animals. Seasonal fun for all ages makes this family farm a favorite autumn stop.
RIVERCREST ORCHARD
Fayetteville, AR I rivercrestorchard.com
A Northwest Arkansas favorite, McGarrah Farms has everything from a sprawling corn maze to mule-train rides, bounce pads, and a pumpkin patch overflowing with variety. Families love the mix of traditional and adventurous activities, and there are photo ops around every corner.
EXETER CORN MAZE
Exeter, MO I exetercornmaze.com
A bit farther north but well worth the drive, Exeter Corn Maze offers one of the largest and most intricate mazes in the region. Families can spend hours exploring, then enjoy pumpkin picking, hayrides, and seasonal treats.
PUMPKIN HOLLOW
Piggott, AR I pumpkinhollow.com
One of Arkansas’s most well-known pumpkin patches, Pumpkin Hollow is a fall playground by day and a haunted destination by night. Worth the trip, families flock for hayrides, corn mazes, and farm animals. Once the sun sets, haunted attractions come alive!
SCENIC FALL DESTINATIONS
HAWKSBILL
CRAG
Whitaker Point
Perhaps Arkansas’s most iconic overlook, Hawksbill Crag juts dramatically over the Buffalo River Valley. In October, the surrounding forest erupts in gold and crimson, making it one of the most photographed spots in the state. A moderate hike leads to this unforgettable view.
BUFFALO NATIONAL RIVER
Upper Buffalo Wilderness
From floating the river to hiking the bluffs, the Buffalo is pure magic in October. Towering limestone cliffs rise above hardwood forests, painting the landscape in vivid color. It’s one of the most scenic fall road trips in Arkansas.
LOST VALLEY
Near Ponca
An easy family-friendly trail leads to caves, waterfalls, and towering bluffs. In fall, the mix of maple, oak, and hickory trees fills the valley with brilliant hues. This hidden gem near Ponca feels like stepping into another world.
ARKANSAS GRAND CANYON
Jasper
Just off Highway 7, a roadside overlook reveals sweeping views of the Arkansas Grand Canyon. The valley stretches for miles, and in autumn, every ridge glows with reds, oranges, and yellows. It’s a must-stop for leaf-peepers.
STEEL CREEK
Buffalo River Area
Sheer limestone bluffs tower above the Buffalo River at Steel Creek, creating a dramatic backdrop for fall foliage. It’s a favorite spot for photographers and hikers alike, offering both easy access and postcard-worthy views.
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The GOODS
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Spreading Joy PROJECT COMPASSION IN ACTION
words and images MARIAN CONRAD, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR PROJECT COMPASSION
Founded in 1972 by the late Gloria White, Project Compassion is a local nonprofit dedicated to bringing joy, companionship, and a better quality of life to residents in long-term care and senior living facilities.
Her vision was simple but powerful: to provide one-to-one visits that eased the loneliness and isolation residents often feel, especially those without nearby friends or family. Gloria believed every person deserves to feel valued, purposeful, and connected. She worked tirelessly to ensure each resident had a trained volunteer visiting regularly.
Fifty-four years later, Project Compassion continues to honor Gloria’s vision while expanding its services and programs. As a United Way of Fort Smith partner, we now serve more than 2,500 residents across 26 long-term care and senior living facilities in six counties. Our programs have grown, but the heart of our mission remains vibrant. Volunteers,
3420 S. 74th Street, Fort Smith, AR 479.783.2273 I projectcompassioninc.com
our mood-lifters, trust-builders, and friend-makers, bring joy and connection to residents every day.
This year brings exciting changes! Thanks to the generosity of Mercy Health Fort Smith, we’ve moved into a new office at 3420 S. 74th. It’s a spacious, convenient location with ample parking that allows for on-site training, expanded volunteer programs, and special events such as our Hearts of Gold Drive-Thru. We invite you to celebrate with us at our Fort Smith Regional Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting and Open House on October 21 at 10:30 a.m.
There are plenty of ways to connect with us this fall. Join our annual PC Golf Classic on October 6 at Ben Geren Regional Golf Course (reserve your team soon), or swing by our BBQ Rib Fundraiser on October 25 to grab dinner before the big game. On December 4, we’ll host our Hearts of Gold Kick-Off and Drive-Thru at our new office. Beyond
events, there are countless opportunities to volunteer one-on-one with residents or through music, card-writing, pet therapy, fidget quilt sewing, wellness activities, and holiday celebrations.
Our volunteers range in age from 5 to 98, proof that kindness and compassion span generations. To get involved, donate, or request a volunteer visit, email info@projectcompassioninc.com, or call 479-783-2273.
JOIN US:
October 6
PC Golf Classic
October 25
BBQ Rib Fundraiser
December 4
Hearts of Gold Kick-Off & Drive-Thru
October 21
Ribbon Cutting & Open House
Fall is a great time for new discoveries. Will this year be your child’s first time to explore a pumpkin patch? How about touching a pumpkin as big as they are tall? True, that may be a first and one-time experience, but every first is special to you, and to your child.
Try to make every discovery a fun experience, even when your child is several pumpkins tall. Help inspire your child’s inner explorer to want to make more discoveries while you learn together through play.
Families are their child’s first guide to making discoveries and learning through play. Who will be your partner in guiding them to be ready for school?
Positive interactions and learning through play
In quality early care and education, every activity is planned for your child’s learning. Choose an early care partner that knows the value of learning through play indoors and out.
Look for teachers who interact with the children in their care as individuals with unlimited
Better Beginnings is administered by the Arkansas Department of Education.
Family and high-quality early educators help our children make discoveries and learn through play.
Written by Kelli Hilburn, Early Childhood Program Supervisor
possibilities. Quality early educators can help your child prepare for their next big adventure – school!
Take part in your child’s learning adventure. Ask your child, “What was the most fun thing you did today? What did you learn?”
The Family Resource Library for fun learning at home
We encourage you to play, discover, and learn together. Explore our free online Family Resource Library for tips and
Scan the code to visit our Family Resource Library. También disponible en español en la Biblioteca de Recursos.
The most effective learning happens through play and positive interactions with adults and caregivers.
ideas, activities, and experiments, which make learning at home an experience the whole family can enjoy.
Find your high-quality early care and education partner
Click the orange banner at ARBetterBeginnings.com to find star-rated quality early care and education providers who can help your child prepare to start school with confidence.
Your child’s first five years build the foundation for their future. Give your child the best start with Better Beginnings quality early care and education providers.
NATIONAL CAT DAY IT’S THE CAT’S MEOW
words DO SOUTH // image ALVAN NEE
October 29 is National Cat Day, a day devoted to celebrating our feline friends and raising awareness about the thousands of cats waiting for loving homes. Whether you already share your life with a whiskered companion or you’re just a fan of their quirky charm, it’s the perfect time to appreciate what makes cats so special.
Cats have been captivating humans for thousands of years, and it’s easy to see why. They’re both independent and affectionate, equal parts mysterious and silly. Did you know a cat’s nose print is as unique as a human fingerprint? Or that cats can leap up to six times their body length in a single bound? No wonder they always land on their feet, most of the time, anyway.
National Cat Day is also a reminder of the many furry friends still searching for homes. Local shelters and rescues are filled with kittens, seniors, and special-needs cats who all deserve a second chance. Even if you can’t adopt, you can help by donating supplies, fostering, or volunteering your time.
This October, take a moment to celebrate the cats in your life, or make room for one more! After all, life is always a little brighter with a purring friend by your side.
FUN CAT FACTS
Cats have 32 muscles in each ear, letting them swivel to catch even the faintest sound.
The oldest known pet cat was discovered in a 9,500-year-old grave in Cyprus.
A group of cats is called a clowder (and a group of kittens is a kindle).
Cats can make over 100 different sounds, from purrs and chirps to meows and trills.
DID YOU KNOW?
The sunflower may look like just a bright and cheerful flower but hidden within its golden face is one of nature’s greatest mathematical secrets. Its seeds are arranged in spirals that follow the Fibonacci sequence, a pattern in which each number is the sum of the two before it: 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, and so on.
Why does this matter? Because this sequence creates the most efficient use of space. By following the Fibonacci spiral, a sunflower packs the maximum number of seeds into its disc without overcrowding. This clever arrangement also ensures each seed gets equal access to light, air, and nutrients, helping the plant grow stronger and healthier. It’s as if mathematics itself designed the blueprint for beauty and efficiency.
But the sunflower isn’t alone. The Fibonacci pattern appears again and again throughout nature. Seashells, like the nautilus, expand in a spiral shape that follows the same ratio, giving them both strength and stability. Look to the skies, and spiral galaxies such as the Milky Way reveal arms that curve in harmony with this same mathematical rhythm. Even planetary orbits and the spacing of moons sometimes echo this universal pattern.
What seems like a coincidence is actually a hidden code that links life on Earth to the vastness of the universe. From the way flowers bloom to the structure of galaxies, the Fibonacci sequence is a quiet reminder that mathematics is woven into the fabric of reality itself.
So, the next time you admire a sunflower, remember you’re gazing at the same intricate mathematical design that shapes seashells, spirals storms, and even guides the galaxies above.
FUN FACT:
The Fibonacci sequence was first introduced to Europe in 1202 by the Italian mathematician Leonardo of Pisa, better known as Fibonacci. In his book Liber Abaci, he not only described the sequence but also helped replace Roman numerals with the number system we use today. His ideas bridged the worlds of commerce, science, and nature, leaving a legacy that still shapes how we see patterns all around us.
words FACTPULSE // images CATHERINE FREDERICK
From his first days in the kitchen to leading the team at BluPoint, Executive Chef Tommy is passionate about raising the standard for dining in Fort Smith. His cooking is as bold as it is thoughtful; nuanced, abstract, and intriguing. At BluPoint, he’s creating an experience that goes beyond the plate.
QUICK-FIRE WITH CHEF TOMMY
Pantry MVPs: Rices, flours, vinegars, aromatics, blends, flowers, and nuts.
Favorite cut of steak: Picanha, for its flavor and fat cap.
Favorite fish: Swordfish, versatile and meaty. Kitchen soundtrack: Indie mix or good rock, nothing screamy.
Dream food trip: Japan, for its markets and culture.
Spice you overuse (and don’t regret): Cinnamon or ginger powder.
What led you to the kitchen, and to BluPoint?
My love for food began after a close friend passed away. Cooking in his honor grew into my passion, and I know he’s with me in everything I do. BluPoint felt like fate. I wanted to be part of something built from the ground up, and we took a chance on each other.
Who has shaped your approach in the kitchen?
Chefs Josh Gentry (21 West End) and Rachel Cannon (Stonehouse). Rachel pushed me hard, shaping not only how I cook, but how I lead. She showed me a healthier, more positive side of this industry, and I’ll always be grateful for the time she invested in me.
How would you describe your cooking style?
Nuanced, abstract, and intriguing. My goal is to reach people through food and perhaps shift their perspective.
Which local suppliers help bring your menu to life?
I work with Tankersley Foodservice. They have been instrumental in helping me push boundaries with my dishes. They even sourced Iberico pork from Spain, the wagyu of pork, and Chef Jeff Greening has gone above and beyond for me countless times. They treat me, and BluPoint, like family.
What makes BluPoint unique?
BluPoint is unlike any other spot in Fort Smith, from the breathtaking scenery to the drinks and, of course, the food. It’s a place that changes your perspective on fine dining. If you’re looking for a higher standard, BluPoint is where you’ll find it.
What do you hope guests experience at BluPoint?
I want people to feel comfortable trying something new, even dishes that might seem ‘weird’ at first. My goal is for them to leave with a higher standard for food in Fort Smith.
What’s been your biggest challenge as a chef?
Mental health challenges. In this industry, the mental state of a chef is really tested, and many turn to vices that can lead to their downfall. I believe it’s often overlooked how deeply this career can affect mental health. I remind myself every day why I’m doing this, to fortify my mind.
What’s a simple tip home cooks can try?
A simple tip? Cook seafood in parchment or foil. It’s easy, tidy, and locks in moisture and flavor.
BREAST HEALTH & CANCER PREVENTION
What Every Woman Should Know
words DR. KENDALL WAGNER // image VANATHCANAN SHUTTERSTOCK
Each year, Women’s Health Month shines a light on the unique health needs of women in our community. At the forefront is breast health. Breast cancer remains the most common cancer diagnosed in women worldwide, and while advances in treatment have improved survival rates, prevention and early detection remain our most powerful tools. Let’s explore what every woman should know about breast health, breast cancer awareness, and the latest research on prevention.
Breast cancer affects one in eight women in the United States over the course of their lives. Though risk rises with age, it can occur at any time. Family history, genetic mutations, and lifestyle choices all play a part. But breast health is about more than screening, it’s about knowing the normal look and feel of your breasts, recognizing changes, and understanding when to seek medical advice. While most breast changes are not cancer, vigilance and early detection are important.
SCREENING: RECOMMENDEDS, FAMILY HISTORY, & BEST PRACTICE
For years, mammography has been the gold standard for breast cancer screening. The American Cancer Society recommends women at average risk begin annual mammograms at age 40. Those with higher risk, such as a strong family history or genetic mutations, may need to start earlier and may benefit from additional imaging like breast MRI.
Emerging research suggests personalized screening strategies will become more common in the future, with intervals and methods tailored to risk factors, breast density, and genetic background. The best approach is to discuss your personal risk with your physician and create a plan informed by bestpractice screening guidelines.
SELF-AWARENESS: KNOW YOUR NORMAL
Breast self-awareness means knowing how your breasts normally look and feel, so you can spot changes. These may include a new lump or thickening, a shift in size, shape, or appearance, skin changes such as dimpling, redness, or scaling, or nipple changes like inversion, discharge, or pain. If you notice any of these, don’t wait for your next scheduled screening, contact your physician promptly.
EMERGING DATA ON BREAST CANCER PREVENTION
The good news is that research continues to uncover ways to lower breast cancer risk. While not every factor is within our control, lifestyle choices matter. Maintaining a healthy weight, especially after menopause, is linked to reduced risk, and even modest weight loss can help. Regular physical activity, about 150 minutes of moderate exercise a week, has been shown to make a difference as well. Limiting alcohol to no more than one drink a day, or avoiding it altogether, is another protective step. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats, particularly in Mediterranean-style patterns, may also be beneficial. Breastfeeding after pregnancy has been shown to lower risk, especially when continued for several months. Finally, avoiding smoking helps, as tobacco use is tied not only to breast cancer in premenopausal women but also to many other cancers.
THE ROLE OF NEW TECHNOLOGIES IN RISK ASSESSMENT
For women with a strong family history of breast or ovarian cancer, genetic counseling and genetic testing may be recommended. Identifying mutations in genes like BRCA1 and BRCA2 can help guide screening and prevention strategies.
Advances in imaging, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) and Breast MRI, are improving the accuracy of breast cancer detection, especially in women with dense breast tissue. Artificial intelligence is also being integrated into imaging analysis, with the goal of identifying cancers earlier and reducing false positives.
Researchers are also exploring novel blood tests, known as “liquid biopsies,” that may one day help detect breast cancer at its earliest stages. While these technologies are still in development, they hold promise for the future of breast cancer screening.
COMMUNITY SUPPORT AND RESOURCES
Facing a breast health concern can feel overwhelming, but you are not alone. Local organizations such as Reynolds Cancer Support House and national resources such as the American Cancer Society and Susan G. Komen Foundation offer education, support, and assistance with screening and treatment.
TAKE ACTION THIS WOMEN’S HEALTH MONTH
This Women’s Health Month is the perfect time to take action. Talk with your physician about your personal risk and the screening strategy that’s right for you. Practice breast selfawareness and report any changes promptly. And make healthy lifestyle choices that support your long-term breast health.
By staying informed and proactive, you can take charge of your breast health and reduce your risk of breast cancer. When breast cancer is found early, the five-year survival rate is over 90%, highlighting why regular screening and awareness of breast changes are so important.
Kendall D. Wagner, MD, is a Board-Certified Internal Medicine-Pediatrics Physician with additional specialization in Lifestyle and Functional Medicine. He is a regular health contributor to Do South® and passionate about equipping families with practical, preventive care strategies.
The Sweet Life
words MARLA CANTRELL // images YURI RICHARDSON
YYuri Richardson’s cakes, sold through her company, Rich Creations, in Fort Smith, Arkansas, are pieces of art, sculpted from flour, sugar, and butter, with glorious toppings and meticulous attention to detail.
Some feel nostalgic, such as the heart-shaped cake piped with buttercream garlands and the words "Just Married." Others are whimsical like the forest cake with red-and-gold mushrooms, Scooby-Doo in his van, or the baby shower cake featuring fondant elephants nestled among green leaves beneath a topper that read "Oh Baby."
Perhaps the funniest was a farewell cake for a coworker, decorated with black roses and the words: "You’re Dead to Us. We Hope You Fail." The cake was perfect; the message bittersweet.
Yuri appreciates that her customers have faith she’ll turn their dreams into realities, no matter how much effort it takes. The most challenging project so far has been the New England lobster boil cake, shaped like a stockpot brimming with a red lobster and yellow corn on the cob. She lost track of the hours she spent perfecting that order.
Yuri practices. She experiments. She orders specialty piping equipment from as far away as the U.K. and never scrimps on quality ingredients.
She thinks she might be YouTube’s best friend, since she’s spent so much time watching its cake decorating videos. But making cakes look grand is only half the battle. They have to be equally
YURI RICHARDSON
delicious. Fortunately, Yuri has had plenty of baking experience, though not in the traditional sense.
Each summer, she spent time with her Grandmother Sissy, who made the best red velvet cake Yuri had ever tasted. When Yuri finally asked for the recipe, her grandmother turned her down, instead telling her to watch her make it. “I think she liked knowing she was the only person in the world who could make it the way I liked it,” Yuri says, smiling at the memory.
It wasn’t until after Grandmother Sissy passed away that Yuri got to see the handwritten recipe for herself, tucked away inside a well-loved metal recipe box. She has since added her own twist to the family recipe, adding two additional ingredients.
Professionally, she got her start when her father and his business partner purchased the Bliss Cupcake franchise in Fort Smith and asked her to manage it. Fresh out of college and working in HR, she jumped at the chance. Mistakes came often, but she leaned on local bakers and learned quickly.
She ran Bliss until its closure in January 2024, then pivoted. Instead of a storefront, she opened a commercial kitchen, taking orders through social media. Customers followed.
Since she started, she’s had some big requests, like the 200 cupcakes she made for the Northside Grizzlies’ senior signing day. She’s recently taken on all the orders for one local corporation, and on October 25, she will provide desserts for the Sunset Supper at the Fort Smith Riverfront Glass Pavilion, which is being hosted by Uncork’d.
As for the smaller orders, most are picked up on Saturday mornings in downtown Fort Smith. Customers wait in line at Prohibition, a speakeasy and social lounge her parents own. Yuri greets each customer, then shows them what she’s created just for them.
Strawberry cake, one of Rich Creations’ bestsellers, is made with real berries, and it’s delicious. The standard vanilla is anything but, with a flavor that is both rich and delicate. Recently, a customer left a review saying she knew how much passion and effort Yuri put into her cakes. Yuri loved that.
“I want people to know that attention was paid, from breaking the eggs to the batter being put in the liners to the decorating. It’s about looks and taste.”
At twenty-eight, Yuri balances work, faith, and family with ease. The daughter of Arkansas State Representative Jay Richardson and community leader Talicia Richardson, she grew up focused and independent, once filling out college applications in grade school just to see what recruiters required.
Her parents only hoped she’d be kind and humble. “I love her to death,” Talicia says. Yuri, who lives just a street away, feels the same. Her younger brother often raids her fridge, and she sees her parents daily. For Yuri, it all adds up to this: a sweet life, made richer with every cake.
Find Rich Creations on Facebook and Instagram.
Finding the Epiphany
words MARLA CANTRELL
images JADE GRAVES PHOTOGRAPHY
The rain has moved out, and an overcast sky bathes the world in a misty shimmer. If this were the first scene of a movie, the film would surely be an emotional rollercoaster, filled with glorious happiness, heartbreaking sadness, and at least one epiphany. In other words, like life itself.
To be more specific, like Kris Scott’s life. She is sitting in a recliner in her living room, flanked on one side by her walker, and on the other by her husband Andy. The Fort Smith, Arkansas couple complement each other. He is taciturn; she is outgoing. He ruminates before speaking; she answers quickly, her hands moving like sparrows to emphasize a point.
Andy and Kris Scott
Andy, leaning forward on the nearby couch, watches Kris as she unspools their love story. Kris laughs. “I knew who he was in high school, but he was a year younger. I had a friend who dated his brother. We called him ‘little red-headed Andy.’”
Little Andy grew up, and by the time they’d reconnected during a friendly canoe trip on the Buffalo River, Kris was seeing him in a whole new light. “There was something about communicating with him without words, which you have to do while canoeing together, that made me want to know him more,” Kris says.
By then, she’d had other adventures, like competing in the 1997 Miss Arkansas pageant, where she won a talent award scholarship. She’d designed many of her evening gowns, and her mother had sewn them. After the canoe trip, Kris told her girlfriends she wanted to see Andy again, and they planned a cookout. The two have been inseparable since.
“His family became my family,” she says. “His parents, Evelyn and Linden, had two boys, so my daughter Raya and I became their two girls. I loved them instantly.”
Kris became part of the family business, Sewtown, which includes the Central Sewing Center in Fort Smith, which opened in 1982, and Sewing Machines of Tulsa.
When Andy and Kris welcomed another daughter, Aidan, Andy’s mom was ready with a closet full of baby girl clothes. Kris felt like she was living in an especially wonderful dream.
But then, in 2015 her mother passed away, and ten months later, her father died.
Kris did her best to piece together her new reality. When she was ready, she began driving to the Tulsa store four days a week and keeping tabs on the Fort Smith location.
When Covid hit in 2020, Kris saw a resurgence in the art of sewing. “We were having between fifty and sixty sewing machines being brought in to our stores for service every day… And then, unrelated to Covid, one of our service technicians passed away, and Andy stepped in to help, which he’s still doing today.”
The staff at Central Sewing Center made me a quilt, a lot of our customers chipped in and made a square for it…
When you talk about sewing and quilting people, they’re compassionate, loyal, creative. One of the things that drew me to the business was that I could see a little of my mother in every woman who brought her sewing machine in.
In October 2022, Kris was working on a quilt show in Fort Smith. While setting up, she lifted boxes, overexerting herself. “I had a strain in my neck, a little knot, and I thought that was odd. I let it go for a little bit, because I’m stubborn. I finally got an X-ray, but it didn’t’ really show anything. They put me on steroids, but it didn’t go away.”
In February 2023, Kris had a CT scan on the upper half of her body. The edge of a mass was visible on the top of her left kidney. The scan revealed another tumor on her clavicle, and one on her vertebra. She was diagnosed with Stage 4 Renal Cell Carcinoma. Kris had her left kidney removed, started immunotherapy, and began taking a chemotherapy pill. Later, she underwent radiation therapy.
Her friends and family stepped in, offering support and fundraising for the overwhelming medical bills. And then there was her work family. “The staff at Central Sewing Center made me a quilt, a lot of our customers chipped in and made a square for it…When you talk about sewing and quilting people, they’re compassionate, loyal, creative. One of the things that drew me to the business was that I could see a little of my mother in every woman who brought her sewing machine in.”
The bright, happy quilt is one of Kris’s treasures, one of the things she says helped get her through a dark time. For a while, it looked like the worst was behind her. “I was feeling better, everything was looking good, but then around Christmas I started losing feeling in my feet. There was another tumor on my spine… A brand-new radiation proton treatment had just begun at UAMS
in Little Rock. We knew God was good and He was leading us every step. They normally wouldn’t do radiation on the spine, but the proton treatment is extremely targeted, so we had an option. The tumor did shrink, although it left me with permanent leg damage. I’m basically numb from the waist down.”
In July 2024, on a trip with Andy to Jackson Hole, Wyoming, Kris was feeling inspired for the first time in a long time. But once she came home, she had a cough and was prescribed a steroid and antibiotics.
“One day, Andy found me incoherent and called the ambulance. I don’t remember anything for about two weeks. I was in the hospital for a month with double pneumonia and Legionnaires disease. Once they asked Andy to get my daughters, that it wasn’t looking good.” And then Kris says, “Before that, I knew that Andy loved me, but then through everything, I actually saw the measure of his love for me.”
Andy has not taken his eyes off his wife. Emotion cracks his voice when he says, “I’m obviously crazy about her. She’s my best friend. I can’t do without her.”
Kris says there were lessons in her struggles. “I think everybody sometimes wonders what their worth is. But to see so much love from so many people displayed in such genuine ways, was overwhelming.
“I think if you talked to someone about me, they’d say I was bubbly and outgoing and didn’t let things get me down. But there were dark times when I didn’t know if I could make it much further, but because of the love and their belief in me, I drew strength.
“It could be as simple as a text on a random Wednesday, with someone saying they were thinking of me. That would snap me out of it, take me outside the four walls of a hospital room or home, and let me know the world was out there still. Or I’d tell someone I was fine, I didn’t need help, because I’m proud, and they’d still show up with dinner. And even though I didn’t want to see anyone, once they were here, I’d feed off their joy.
“I think people expect you to come through something like this and have a great epiphany. I can’t say that I have, except my faith in God. The epiphany of life is God. If I didn’t have such
strong faith that His will will be done, it would have been easy to give up and quit.”
These days, Kris cherishes every new morning. “It may be just another ordinary day, but it’s a day,” she says. “I’ll get to Facetime my daughters and visit with Andy.” Recently, three more tumors were discovered, and Kris will undergo additional treatment. Even of that she says, “God is so good. The timing was good. I was able to move my youngest daughter Aidan into her dorm at OSU [Oklahoma State University] and get her settled. It would have broken my heart not to do that.”
Kris lifts her glasses, wipes her eyes. Outside, the neighborhood is rallying. There are places to go. People to see. The errands of everyday life. Andy and Kris are content where they are, together. At this moment, on this shimmering morning, they have everything they need.
Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC) is the most common form of kidney cancer in adults. It begins in the tiny filtering tubes of the kidney and is sometimes discovered during scans for other issues, since early symptoms can be subtle. Learn more about kidney health and Renal Cell Carcinoma at the American Cancer Society (cancer.org) or the Kidney Cancer Association (kidneycancer.org).
Back: KAREN WARD, LINDEN AND ANDY SCOTT, TERESA RAMBO Front: EVELYN AND KRIS SCOTT
Redefining Emergency Care in Fort Smith
Fort Smith ER & Hospital Offers Popular Alternative in Emergency Medical Services
At any time of the day or night , a new beacon of health care is shining in Fort Smith. At first glance, Fort Smith ER & Hospital resembles a large urgent care clinic, but the clean, brightly lit building is anything but ordinary.
Inside, patients find a sparkling new concept in emergency health care, a standalone, physician-owned and operated hospital equipped to handle virtually anything that would walk through the doors of a standard emergency department attached to a hospital.
Opened three years ago, Fort Smith ER & Hospital provides patients an alternative in emergency care which avoids the long waits and congestion of regular emergency rooms without sacrificing medical expertise.
words DWAIN HEBDA images JADE GRAVES PHOTOGRAPHY
“We strive to provide efficient care with the only difference being ours is a little bit smaller facility with eight emergency beds and five inpatient beds,” says Dr. John Weddle, DO, physician-owner. “Our wait times are much shorter than the typical ER, we strive to welcome people at the front door, we stress cleanliness, and we even provide a few additional amenities such as snacks and drinks. This new model has been wellreceived by the community.”
The specialty hospital is dramatically efficient, with wait times under fifteen minutes compared to thirty minutes to three hours at a standard ER. It also partners with other medical facilities to help balance patient loads.
The concept of a standalone emergency department is relatively new but growing fast. According to Becker’s Hospital Review , a mere one percent of emergency departments were freestanding in 2001. Twenty-three years later, off-campus emergency departments (OCED) dominate the medical landscape with sixty-five percent market share, per Grand View Research. Independent freestanding emergency departments (IFED), those facilities not owned by a hospital, represented about two hundred locations in 2023, a number that is expected to grow about six percent annually through 2030.
Fort Smith ER & Hospital is part of a Texas-based health care management and operations company and one of twenty-four quality care facilities in eleven states, with ten more hospitals currently in the works. The Fort Smith hospital is the company’s second location in the state, behind Cabot Emergency Hospital, with a third Arkansas facility currently in development. Fort Smith ER & Hospital employs nearly seventy people, including twelve physicians, ten of whom are also owners.
An Oklahoma native who has worked in a variety of emergency medical settings throughout his twenty-eight-year career, John says he wanted to be part of the company for the freedom it affords him and his colleagues in serving patients.
“Too many physicians who go to work for larger corporations as employees are removed from the decision-making process of what's best for their patients or best for their care,” he says. “The ability to make decisions without multiple layers of bureaucracy that hamstring a lot of larger hospitals is definitely attractive for us as physicians.”
The physician-owners had input on everything from the layout and configuration of the Fort Smith hospital space to what medical technology should be at the ready to help diagnose
cases, including in-house radiology comprised of CT, ultrasound, x-ray, and MRI.
“Having that input has been very, very rewarding,” John says. “It has allowed us as a group to have discussions and decide which equipment or supplies we want to implement, and then to make that happen quickly. I think the combination of physicians and staff involvement in decision-making makes this a very positive environment to work in.”
John shares that the business model is also effective in boosting employee retention, which is particularly important given the current nationwide shortage of nurses and other health care workers.
“Our staff retention has been great,” he notes. “We have twelve physicians working at our facility, each from varied backgrounds across northwest Arkansas and eastern Oklahoma. We also have nurses and staff we’ve built relationships with over the years, many of whom we were able to bring with us to this facility. My chief nursing officer is someone I first worked with in an emergency room in Fort Smith more than twenty-five years ago, and I’ve also known my charge nurse for over two decades.
“The culture here is different. We provide a welcoming, positive environment that isn’t as stressful, which means we don’t face the high turnover that so many understaffed facilities struggle with. Larger hospitals, especially during and after COVID, have battled to maintain enough staff and deliver consistent care, and many remain stretched thin even now. It’s been a very tough five years for them.”
John admits that while the concept had plenty of positives, it took the community a little time to warm up to it.
“When we started, we had to try to differentiate ourselves from convenient care and urgent care. We also had to distinguish ourselves from a primary care facility,” he says. “That's why we have the somewhat awkward and cumbersome name of Fort Smith ER and Hospital, which was an attempt to educate from Day One what we actually offer.
“We also had to shift the mindset of some partners when we first took on this project. Although they were generally familiar with the idea of a freestanding emergency department, it was still a relatively new concept. It wasn’t until we began seeing patients that the reality set in, we truly are a hospital. Once we started admitting patients and managing more complex cases, word spread quickly throughout the community.”
While it took the public some time to fully understand the business model, there’s no question it has now been embraced. John notes that Fort Smith ER & Hospital is already preparing to expand beyond its original 20,000 square feet, adding 3,000 more to create additional patient rooms and meet growing demand.
“As we’ve grown over the past three years, we’ve identified service lines in our area that needed greater support,” he says. “Recently, we welcomed a cardiologist to our team and are developing an echocardiography service. In addition, our outpatient imaging services, including MRI, CT, and ultrasound, have become a robust and well-received resource in the community.
“We partner closely with local clinics and primary care providers, and we work with area businesses to treat work-related injuries and illnesses, helping keep higher-acuity ERs from becoming overcrowded. That approach has fueled strong word of mouth in the community that what we offer is something special.”
Fort Smith ER & Hospital is open 24/7 to serve you. Have questions? Visit fortsmithhospital.com, call 479.974.9403, or for direct care, visit 4701 Phoenix Avenue, in Fort Smith, Arkansas.
Our annual Local Nonprofits Guide shines a light on the organizations making a difference. From providing essential services to creating opportunities for connection, these groups are the heart of our community. This special feature invites readers to discover and engage with the causes that matter most.
Do South® Paid Promotions
GUIDE: LOCAL NONPROFITS PROFILES: HEALTHCARE
- OCTOBER 6, 2025
CATHERINE FREDERICK / 479.782.1500 / CATHERINE@DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM
Our Healthcare Profiles highlight the professionals, clinics, and services dedicated to keeping our community healthy. From preventive care to life-changing treatments, our Healthcare Profiles connect readers with trusted providers who put compassion and expertise at the forefront.
FULL CIRCLE
BHC Insurance — A Legacy Resumed
words DWAIN HEBDA // images BHC INSURANCE
To dyed-in-the-wool entrepreneurs, there’s a certain degree of pride in owning one’s own business that’s unlike anything in the corporate world.
For one Fort Smith company, BHC Insurance, this has meant moving from family ownership to corporate control and back again. Today, the firm is thriving, creating success while building wealth for its employees through stock ownership.
“It was a huge motivating thing for us to get ownership back,” says Marty Clark, president and CEO. “It's just been awesome. We're now the second largest privately held agency in Arkansas, and we have organic growth goals that are really high.”
The story begins with Marty's father, Larry Clark (and Sam Hiller), partners in the original business, Brown-Hiller-Clark & Associates, which Marty and his older brother, Scott, joined in the early 1990s.
"I worked for Walmart for a couple of years in the risk management division before I came into the family company," Marty says. "I came back for the opportunity to grow it and work with my dad and my brother. That was the primary focus."
Marty and Scott Clark, along with Shannon Schmidly, a mutual friend who joined the company around the same time, proved to be cut from the right cloth for insurance work.
"For me, I think the biggest thing is I'm a very curious person. I'm a people person. I like to learn about people. I like to find out what made them successful," Marty says. "That's a big part of our business. We work with business owners, and when you have that sort of natural curiosity and ease of talking to people, it complements our business. And, when people know you genuinely care about their story is, they're more inclined to do business with you."
The company thrived under the young trio’s aggressive, pro-growth mindset, to the point where other companies began to take notice of its success. After about a decade of building the firm’s book of business, the phone started ringing with potential suitors.
“In 1999, there was legislation passed that allowed banks to get into the insurance business where they previously were not allowed to,” Marty says. “For banks, this is awesome because they can diversify and create other streams of income. Around 2000, there was an immediate shift as large banks acquired large insurance agencies.
“We were a top four or five agency at that time, but the companies that were getting acquired were way bigger than us. We're thinking, this is kind of interesting, but it could be a threat to us. Meanwhile, we're receiving inquiries from numerous banks that are attempting to establish a presence in Arkansas. We just viewed the situation as, you know, a potential existential threat for us."
During this, Marty had a chance meeting with Sam Sicard, the son of the then-chairman of the board of First National Bank in Fort Smith, a company that, like Brown-Hiller-Clark & Associates, had been in family hands for multiple generations. Sam was still new to the banking world, but he could read trends. He broached the subject with Marty of the bank holding company buying the insurance agency.
“We ultimately made the decision to sell the agency to the bank,” Marty says. "If we were going to sell to a bank, we wanted to do it with a local bank we could trust, one that wouldn't change us or change our culture."
The deal, which was signed in 2002, proved a match made in heaven. First Bank Corporation leadership had the good sense not to meddle with a winning formula, allowing the agency to operate as it saw fit. In return, the insurance firm did what it does best, growing fivefold over the next two decades.
“We would continuously be approached by outside acquirers during this time, such as national agencies and private equity, but we were never
PAXTON AND MARTY CLARK
interested because we didn’t want to work for someone else,” Marty says. “First Bank Corp. never micromanaged us and completely allowed us to do our jobs. They really are great people. We grew tremendously during the twenty-year period, and we were focused on being the best we could be, quite honestly.”
However, amidst all the success, agency leadership couldn’t shake the nagging feeling of regret over the sale.
"From Day One, we had a very close relationship with the bank, and we had an excellent relationship for the entire time we were together, but there were parts of me that knew we had shortchanged ourselves and lost a key part of what drives all organizations — equity partners with skin in the game to help grow the organization long-term,” Marty says. "However, we didn't think we could afford to buy our own success back, basically. It was going to be extremely hard to do that."
Family ties would once again prove a powerful motivator, however, as Marty's son, Paxton, was preparing to graduate from Southern Methodist University in Dallas. When a competing Texas insurance firm attempted to recruit Paxton to work for them, it prompted the father and son to sit down and discuss careers and the future.
"Paxton called me and said, 'Hey Dad, this risk management broker thing sounds awesome,'" Marty reflects. "I said, 'Paxton, do you know what I do?' and the answer was he really didn't. I told him that's what I did, and if he was really interested in it, we had a spot for him in our northwest Arkansas office."
Paxton not only joined what is now known as BHC Insurance after graduation in 2020, but he also recruited Graves Schmidly, son of BHC partner Shannon Schmidly, to come to the firm as well. This sparked Marty's desire to find a way to bring the firm back into private ownership.
“Suddenly, we've got these two young, sharp kids working for us who can never have equity in the company,” Marty says. “I started wondering if it was even possible for us to buy this company back? How could we afford to do this?”
By happenstance, a former high school classmate who’d built an impressive business career in the U.S. and abroad, called Marty and convinced him to send over some preliminary information “just so he could run the numbers.”
“Four days later, he came back with a spreadsheet a mile long about all these different permutations of interest rates, growth rates, all this sort of stuff,” Marty says. “He created a picture that showed us that we could do it.”
Marty approached the owners in late 2022, and after some back-and-forth, in March 2023, a deal was finalized. Since then, BHC Insurance hasn't missed a beat. The firm now employs nearly ninety people in Fort Smith, northwest Arkansas, and Oklahoma, and is in expansion mode, having opened a Little Rock office in July. Moreover, the company has been able to offer its workforce opportunities that it couldn't under previous ownership.
"The coolest thing is, Shannon and I are the majority owners with our kids, but we also have fourteen other minority shareholders. These are people who never would've had ownership opportunities before the buyback, who now do," Marty says. "That's super motivating for them to take care of the clients and provide the best customer service. It's kind of like a rising tide lifts all boats, you know, everybody's doing their best to help the overall company grow."
RECOMMENDED READING
words SARA PUTMAN, BOOKISH
Enjoy these October recommendations from our friends at Bookish, Fort Smith, Arkansas's only independently owned bookstore. Order online at BookishFS.com.
The Island of Last Things by
Emma Sloley
Sloley’s new novel imagines a near-future where entire ecosystems have collapsed and zoos are the last strongholds for endangered animals. One by one, though, those zoos close because they have been starved of funding, targeted by protests, or devastated by disease. The final zoo stands on Alcatraz Island, operating within the walls of the old prison.
At its heart is Camille, a young woman who has spent her adult life working at the zoo, more at ease with animals than people. Her quiet existence is upended when Sailor, a captivating former zookeeper, arrives. Sailor’s charisma and fierce devotion to the animals draw Camille into a dangerous plan to smuggle creatures to a rumored sanctuary in China. While the world Sloley paints is undeniably dark, she reminds us that hope begins with imagination and that picturing a better world is the first step to create one.
Extinction is everywhere but hope still exists.
Hot Wax
by M.L. Rio
If you love stories that pulse with music and jump across time, this is the book for you. Told in three intertwined timelines, it follows the daughter of a touring musician who’s always chasing the dream but never quite catching it. Her dad is just famous enough to vanish from family life, leaving her to wrestle with his absence and the intoxicating, complicated world of music he drags her into when she joins him on tour.
Flashout
by Alexis Soloski
This novel sweeps through the gritty, electric streets of ‘70s New York to sun-soaked California in ‘97, tracing the ripple effects of a young woman’s choices. When a college student sneaks out of her dorm to see a notorious theater troupe, she’s instantly captivated and soon entwined in their world of art, rebellion, secrecy, and estranged relationships. Decades later, now a teacher in California, the past resurfaces, threatening everything she’s built.
Katabasis
by R.F. Kuang
If you’ve ever been engulfed in the heartbreak that is academia, you’ll love this sharp, funny novel that turns the grind of grad school into actual hell: grant begging, endless essay marking, and supervisors who ghost your emails. Following two scholars of “analytic magick,” Kuang blends satire, dark humor, and campus drama into a fast read. This novel has teeth: playful, angry, and all too real for those who’ve lived the struggle.
View more of Sarah’s work at SarahGravesArt.com.
24” x 20” Watercolor, Cold Wax by artist Sarah Graves
Hearty Harvest Chili
recipe DO SOUTH // image LILECHKA75 ISTOCK
Bold, hearty, and just the right amount of spice, this chili is loaded with tender beef, beans, sweet corn, and peppers. Simmered low and slow, it’s a bowlful of comfort that warms you from the inside out.
Ingredients
° 3 Tablespoons olive oil
° 1 green bell pepper, chopped
° 1 yellow onion, chopped
° 2 lbs. lean ground beef
° 1 fresh red chili, minced
° 2 fresh cloves garlic, minced
° 1 Tablespoon smoked paprika
° 2 Tablespoons chili powder
° 1 teaspoon ground cumin
° ½ teaspoon dried oregano
° 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
° ½ teaspoon black pepper
° 28 oz. fire-roasted diced tomatoes, with juice
° 6 oz. tomato paste
° 1-2 cups beef broth
° 1 cup frozen or canned corn, drained
° 2 – 15 oz. cans kidney beans, drained, rinsed
° ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
° cilantro, fresh (garnish)
° jalapeños or chili peppers, sliced (garnish)
Method
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper, cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add ground beef, cook until browned. Stir in garlic and minced red chili; cook 1 minute. Add smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper; stir until fragrant. Stir in diced tomatoes with juice, tomato paste, and desired amount of beef broth – depending on how thick or thin you prefer. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add kidney beans and corn; stir to combine. Simmer another 20–30 minutes until thickened and flavors develop. Adjust salt, pepper, and spice level as needed. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro and sliced fresh chilies.
Enjoy incredible student performances this fall! Reserve your seat at uafs.universitytickets.com.
Fall Choral Showcase
7 p.m. • Tuesday, Oct. 21
Almost Maine
7 p.m. shows Nov. 6-8
Wind Ensemble
7 p.m. • Tuesday, Nov. 11
Orchestra
7 p.m. • Thursday, Nov. 13
Jazz Band
7 p.m. • Tuesday, Nov. 18
Jazz Catz
7 p.m. • Thursday, Nov. 20
For showtimes and ticket information, scan the QR code or visit uafs.edu/season
UAFS athletics
Volleyball
Oct. 3 vs Central Missouri
Oct. 4 vs Missouri Southern
Oct. 10 vs Missouri Western
Oct. 11 vs NW Missouri
Oct. 14 vs Monticello
Oct. 22 vs Central Oklahoma
Nov. 7 vs Newman
Nov. 8 vs Pittsburg State
Women’s Basketball
Nov. 14 vs Monticello
Nov. 15 vs Southern Arkansas
uafslions.com
Maple-Bourbon Pecan Cheesecake
Sweet, nutty, and laced with a hint of bourbon warmth, this cheesecake takes pecan pie to new heights. With its maple-kissed filling and decadent topping, it’s comfort and elegance baked into one unforgettable dessert.
recipe DO SOUTH // image ELENA VESELOVA SHUTTERSTOCK
Ingredients
(serves 8-10)
for the crust
° 12 whole graham crackers (6 to 7 ounces), or 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
° 5 Tablespoons unsalted butter, plus more for coating the pan
for the filling
° 2 pounds cream cheese, full-fat
° 1 cup granulated sugar
° 2 Tablespoons maple syrup
° 1 Tablespoon cornstarch
° ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
° ½ cup sour cream
° 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
° 1 Tablespoon bourbon (optional)
° 3 large eggs
° 1 large egg yolk
for the pecan pie topping
° 1 ½ cups whole pecans
° 6 Tablespoons butter, unsalted
° ¾ cup dark brown sugar, packed
° ½ teaspoon kosher salt
° ½ cup heavy cream
° ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Method
For the crust: Heat oven to 350°F and butter a 9-inch springform pan, wrapping the outside with foil. Combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter, press into bottom of pan, and bake until lightly browned, about 8 to 10 minutes. Toast pecans at the same time, set everything aside to cool.
For the filling: Beat softened cream cheese with sugar, cornstarch, and salt until smooth. Blend in sour cream, maple syrup, bourbon, vanilla, add eggs one at a time. Stir batter by hand to ensure it’s fully combined, pour over the cooled crust.
Place the cheesecake pan inside a large roasting pan. Pour boiling water into the roasting pan until it comes about halfway up the sides of the cheesecake pan. Bake 50–60 minutes, until edges are set but center still jiggles. Turn off oven, crack door, and let cheesecake rest inside for 1 hour. Remove pan from water, run knife around edges, and cool on a rack for 1½ hours. Refrigerate at least 4 hours or up to 3 days.
For the topping: Melt butter with brown sugar and salt until bubbling, whisk in cream and vanilla, stir to combine. Cool mixture to room temperature then pour over chilled cheesecake, drizzling some over the edges. Sprinkle toasted pecans over top, unmold, slice, and serve.
Apple Cider Sangria
Ingredients
(makes 6-8)
Crisp cider, warming spices, and bright white wine come together in this easy pitcher-perfect sangria. Serve it chilled at a fall gathering or warmed for a cozy night in.
• 1 bottle dry white wine (Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
• 2-3 cups fresh apple cider
• ½ cup brandy
• 2 Tablespoons maple syrup (or honey, for a lighter sweetness)
• 1 apple, 1 pear, and 1 orange, thinly sliced
• 2 cinnamon sticks, more for garnish
• 3–4 whole cloves
• rosemary and apple slices (garnish)
Method
In a large pitcher, combine the wine, apple cider, brandy, and maple syrup, stirring until well blended. Add the sliced fruit, cinnamon sticks, and cloves, then cover and refrigerate for at least four hours, or overnight for deeper flavor. To serve, pour sangria over ice and top with fresh apple slice, rosemary sprig, and cinnamon stick. For a little fizz, top with a splash of club soda, or warm a portion on the stovetop for a mulled wine twist.
Happy Hillberry
words BOB ROBINSON // images BOB ROBINSON, HILLBERRY MUSIC FESTIVAL, AND LISTED PHOTOGRAPHERS
Drag out the tie-dye , camping gear, and theme-based costumes, it’s time to get your Hillberry on! This year, Hillberry Music Festival celebrates its tenth anniversary October 8–12, with five nights of music, camping, live art, workshops, plus craft and food vendors. Presented by Deadhead Productions and Railroad Earth, the event has been voted Best Music Festival three years in a row by Best of NWA.
Nestled in the picturesque Ozark Mountains, just a short drive from eclectic Eureka Springs, Hillberry is more than a music festival, it’s an escape from the ordinary. The moment you arrive, you leave the “real world” behind and immerse yourself in the Hillberry experience.
Hosted at The Farm, a 160-acre campground that offers amenities like a general store, showers, disc golf, hiking/biking trails, and RV/tent camping. During festival week, it’s homebase for the Hillberry community. Year after year, attendees, arts and crafts vendors, sound crews and nationally known and local musicians, all come together to form the Hillberry Family.
“I’m extremely grateful to those who have supported us for the past ten years,” says Jon Walker, owner of Deadhead Productions. “Their support and the love they give back is what keeps this event alive.”
This year’s lineup blends folk, country, bluegrass, Americana, and jam, a sound fans call jamgrass. To highlight regional singer-songwriters, Walker added a new stage featuring thirty-minute showcase slots. There’s also a single-mic band competition, with the winner earning a coveted main stage slot at next year’s festival.
For first timers it doesn’t take long to find your way around. Walker designed a series of roads connecting each area of the venue, and this year they’ve been chip-sealed to eliminate dust (cue the cheers!). Your first mission: scout the perfect campsite. There are no bad options. With the main stage nestled at the base of a mountain, music fills the valley. Even when you wander around to visit old and new friends, you won’t miss a note.
Once camp is set, take time to explore. Tie-dye is the pattern of choice, draped across campsites, lounge chairs, and festivalgoers. Stroll Vendor Alley for food-truck fare or morning coffee. Check the Activity Tent schedule for workshops, think tie-dye tees, yoga, juggling, and meditation, with plenty geared toward young festivalgoers. Browse handcrafted apparel, jewelry, and purses before heading to the open meadow in front of the main stage, where a natural amphitheater of Ozark forest frames the view.
Hillberry’s artist community is thriving. Watch featured artists create live works throughout the week. Then make your way to The Shrine Stage, a smaller, tree-framed venue perfect for late-night and morning sets. Hammocks strung between the trees offer the ultimate relaxation spot. Nearby, you’ll find a native stone memorial to Jerry Garcia, decorated with colorful tokens left by festivalgoers. A neighboring bulletin board invites you to add your own words of wisdom.
Festivalgoer Lily Sitero summed it up perfectly. “Been on my list for many years,” she shared. “The lineup is always stacked, and it’s a beautiful setting!” For many, Hillberry is more than a festival; it’s another groovy reason to call the Natural State home.
Visit hillberryfestival.com for tickets and the full lineup.
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8. Kids Playing by Lux Lareau
1. Arkansauce by Corey Lamb
2024 Crowd by Phil Clarkin
Infamous Stringdusters by FestyPanda
Grannies by KW Media
Art Gallery by Scott Seifert
Paul Cauthen by Zen Lens Photomedia
Shrine State by Glow N Photography
Rivercrest Orchard Where Fall Comes Alive
words DO SOUTH // images RIVERCREST ORCHARD
The air is crisp, the leaves are starting to turn, and the world seems painted in every shade of crimson and gold. In Fayetteville, there’s one place where fall feels larger than life, Rivercrest Orchard. Set against the rolling hills on the edge of town, Rivercrest is more than a pumpkin patch; it’s an experience, a gathering place, and for many, it’s a fall tradition.
A Farm with Roots
Rivercrest is part of the McGarrah family legacy, a farming tradition stretching back to 1824. For generations, the McGarrah family has been committed to cultivating not just crops, but also community. With Rivercrest Orchard, they’ve created a space where farming heritage meets festival fun. Each October, the orchard transforms into a lively celebration of all things fall.
A Pumpkin for Every Porch
The heart of Rivercrest is the pumpkin patch. Wander through row after row of orange, white, and even striped pumpkins, hunting for just the right one to carve into a jack-o’-lantern or display proudly on your porch. You’ll find tiny gourds perfect for table settings, oversized pumpkins that require two hands to lift, and everything in between.
More than a Patch
What makes Rivercrest stand out is the sheer variety of attractions. Kids can race through the corn maze and enjoy the barnyard play area which spreads across six acres, filled with climbing structures, slides, and plenty of space for little ones to burn off some energy. Bounce pillows rise like colorful trampolines, and those feeling adventurous can take on the lowropes course or sail through the air on a zip-line.
Back on the ground, there are hayrides that loop around the property, offering sweeping views of sunflowers and pumpkins stretching endlessly to the horizon. Hungry? Stop for a snack break at the food vendors where cider, donuts, and savory treats abound.
Fields of Sunflowers
While pumpkins may be the main attraction, Rivercrest’s sunflower fields are just as beloved. Tall, golden blooms create the perfect backdrop for fall photos. The fields are carefully planted so that sunflowers peak during October, ensuring a splash of color perfect for the season.
Something for Everyone
Rivercrest has definitely mastered the art of appealing to all ages. For kids, there’s endless entertainment, from barrel trains and corn pools to hay pyramids and petting animals. Teens and adults can take on the corn maze challenge or the thrill of the zip-line. Grandparents can opt to join the fun or sit back with a cup of cider and watch it all unfold.
Planning Your Visit
For local families, the drive to Fayetteville is just about an hour, close enough for a day trip, but far enough to feel like a getaway. Weekends are when Rivercrest comes alive, with extended hours and activities running from morning to evening. Tickets are available online in advance, and it’s wise to plan ahead, especially if you want to catch the pumpkin patch at its peak.
Don’t forget comfortable shoes and a little wagon if you plan on hauling more than a few pumpkins. And be sure to bring your camera, the photo opportunities are endless.
Rivercrest Orchard isn’t just a farm. It’s a reminder of why we love this time of year; the chance to slow down, breathe in the cool air, and celebrate the simple joys of the season. Whether you’re after a pumpkin, a family adventure, or just an afternoon of sunshine and cider, Rivercrest offers it all.
Rivercrest Orchard is located at 2991 Dead Horse Mountain Road in Fayetteville, Arkansas. Open Fridays–Sundays in October. Tickets & details are at rivercrestorchard.com.
WOMEN 'S GUIDE
Your Guide to Living Well in Every Season of Life
In these pages, you’ll meet local experts ready to share their knowledge, businesses committed to serving women well, and features designed to inspire and empower. This guide is for every stage of the journey, because when women thrive, we all thrive.
At John Mays Jewelers, we believe every woman deserves to shine. For more than twenty-five years, our family-owned jewelry store has been helping clients in the River Valley celebrate life’s most meaningful moments with timeless pieces that reflect beauty, strength, and individuality. From dazzling diamonds to classic gold and gemstone designs, our curated collection offers something special for every style and occasion. Whether you’re choosing a gift for a loved one or treating yourself, our family is here to guide you with personalized service and expert advice. At John Mays Jewelers, it’s not just about jewelry, it’s about creating memories that last a lifetime. Visit us and discover your next forever piece today.
As women, we often balance between the needs of our families and ourselves. From hearing our children’s laughter to staying engaged in conversations with friends or colleagues, hearing well is essential to maintaining those connections. Recognizing early signs of hearing loss in aging parents or even in ourselves can make all the difference. That’s why our team of female audiologists is committed to providing personalized, compassionate care that addresses your specific needs. We understand the unique challenges women face when it comes to hearing health and are here to help you and your loved ones experience life with clarity. After all, hearing well isn’t just about sound, it’s about staying connected to the moments and people that matter most.
As women, we understand the vital role clear, confident hearing plays in every aspect of life.
Whether it’s cherishing your children’s laughter, staying engaged in social conversations, or recognizing the signs of hearing loss in aging parents, better hearing is essential to staying connected. We’re here to help you enjoy every moment with clarity and comfort—because you deserve to hear and be heard, loud and clear.
- Vestibular and Balance Testing
- Ear Cleaning
- Diagnostic Hearing Evaluations
- Tinnitus Evaluations & Treatment
- Earwax Removal
- Complete Hearing Aid Center
Strong at Every Stage FITNESS AS WE AGE
words DO SOUTH
At 63, Linda tripped walking up her stairs and fractured her wrist. The doctor told her something she didn’t expect, her bones had weakened, in part because she’d practically stopped exercising. Determined to regain her strength, Linda began a program focused on walking, light weights, and balance training. Within months, she noticed more energy, confidence, and stability.
Linda’s story highlights a truth many women discover later in life: movement isn’t optional, it’s essential. As women age, muscle mass naturally decreases, balance becomes less steady, and bones lose density. Without activity, the risk of falls, fractures, and chronic illness rises. But with consistent exercise, the opposite is true; strength, stability, and independence are preserved well into later years.
The benefits of fitness extend beyond the physical. Regular activity lowers the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and dementia, while also improving mood and sleep. Even modest activity has profound effects. Walking briskly for just thirty minutes most days, gardening, or joining a community class all contribute to long-term wellness.
Strength training is especially important for women over 40. Lifting weights or using resistance bands builds muscle and protects bones. Balance-focused exercise like yoga reduces fall risk, while aerobic activity strengthens the heart and lungs. Fitness doesn’t have to mean hours in the gym; it’s about finding activities you enjoy and can sustain.
The key is to start where you are and progress gradually. Small, consistent efforts create lasting results. And it’s never too late! Whether you’re 45 or 75, your body responds to movement. Staying active isn’t about chasing perfection. It’s about protecting your body, boosting your confidence, and giving yourself the freedom to enjoy every stage of life.
3 QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR DOCTOR
What types of exercise are safest and most effective for my age?
How can I protect my bones and joints as I increase activity?
Are there screenings I need before starting a new fitness program?
DID YOU KNOW?
Women lose 3–5% of muscle mass per decade after 30.
Regular activity lowers Alzheimer’s risk by nearly 50%.
Strength training supports independence later in life.
KNOW THE WARNING SIGNS
Frequent falls or near-misses
Lingering joint pain with activity
Trouble rising from a chair without using hands
Noticeable loss of strength or stamina
QUICK FITNESS TIPS
Take the stairs instead of the elevator.
Keep light weights or resistance bands at home.
Turn phone calls into “walk and talk” time.
Aim for 10 minutes of movement after each mea l.
Our holistic approach to
AESTHETICS and BEAUTY
Advanced Skincare • Facials & Injectables • Body Contouring Medical Weight Loss Programs
HEALTH
and WELLNESS
Bioidentical Hormones for Men & Women • Peptide Therapy for Energy & Renewal Women’s Intimate Wellness • Men’s Sexual Wellness Solutions
At Aspire Medical Aesthetics and Wellness, Dr. Kendall Wagner and Kathie Wagner have created a unique destination where aesthetics and wellness meet. Their philosophy is simple: every woman deserves to feel confident, healthy, and vibrant. Aspire offers hormone optimization with Evexipel therapy and peptide support to restore balance, intimate health solutions with INMODE Empower RF, and radiant skin programs including Hydrafacials, medical-grade skincare regimens, light therapy, and expert care from aesthetician Summer Martin. Each plan is individualized and overseen by Dr. Wagner, Board-Certified Physician, and Kathie, a licensed Occupational Therapist specializing in women’s health and pelvic floor therapy. Care coordinator Amanda guides each step, ensuring a personalized experience that empowers you to become the best version of yourself.
Our staff consists of experienced professionals with a “handson” approach to financial guidance. Our knowledgeable team truly cares about planning your financial future. It is our mission to keep you focused on where you want to go, advise you on how to get there, and remind you of the importance of maintaining a disciplined approach to pursuing your dreams. Our company is based on the principle that education and understanding of your current financial situation is vital to making prudent decisions concerning your future financial condition. We offer one-on-one consultations, a lunch-and-learn series, and the WOMEN: What You Need to Know resource. We want to provide the tools you need to feel confident and help you achieve your goals.
DID YOU KNOW…
1 in 7 Adults Provide Financial Support to Both a Child and an Aging Parent?
On Average, Women Live 5 Years Longer than Men? • 80% of Women Die Single, Whereas 80% of Men Die Married? Visit us today to receive your free copy of Women: What You Need to Know! This resource explores the financial challenges women face and provides strategies for a secure future.
Ready for some self-care? Procedures such as breast augmentation, liposuction or tummy tucks can contribute to a healthier body image, helping you feel more comfortable and confident in your own skin. Performed by the skilled hands of Dr. Ann Passmore, contouring procedures can lift, enhance and reshape those areas that cause you insecurity.
Take a step toward stronger self-confidence. Call for a consultation today.
Ann K. Passmore, M.D., F.A.C.S
7805 Phoenix Ave., Fort Smith 479.242.2442
passmoreplasticsurgery.com
Are there aspects of your appearance that make you selfconscious or inhibit your confidence? Dr. Ann Passmore, a Board-Certified cosmetic surgeon, can help you make the changes and improvements you’ve been dreaming of. In addition to surgical procedures utilized for custom body contouring, her practice offers the latest in-office technology to help you feel more confident and appear more youthful without extended downtime. These advanced nonsurgical treatments can help you appear tighter, brighter, and refreshed. Offering high quality skin care products, surgical procedures, and non-surgical therapies, Passmore Plastic Surgery can customize the right treatment for your body, your skin, and your budget.
1500 Dodson Ave., Ste. 140, Fort Smith 479.441.4100 baptisthealthmammo.com
Baptist Health Breast Center–Fort Smith provides advanced screening technology in a convenient, patient-focused setting. Located at 1500 Dodson Avenue, Suite 140, inside the Baptist Health Medical Plaza, the center offers comprehensive breast health services, including 3D mammography and the Invenia ABUS 2.0 for women with dense breast tissue, and genetic testing. Patients can also count on a caring staff that understands the importance of sensitivity during screenings. With the latest imaging tools and a compassionate team, Baptist Health Breast Center–Fort Smith makes it easier for women to stay proactive about their breast health. To schedule a screening, call (479) 441-4100, option 3.
Your circle is your lifeline—your sisters, your mom, your coworkers, your BFFs. The ones who show up, cheer you on, and help carry the load. This is your reminder to take care of each other.
Breast cancer screenings save lives, especially when caught early. So Circle Up. Schedule your mammogram, and remind the important women in your life to schedule theirs. You’re there for them. Baptist Health is here for you, for life.
To schedule your mammogram, call (501) 202-1922 or visit BaptistHealthMammo.com.
Awareness Saves Lives
BREAST & OVARIAN CANCER
words DO SOUTH
At 48, Stephanie went in for her routine mammogram expecting the usual “all clear.” A few days later, the call came: the radiologist had spotted a small lump. What followed was a blur of appointments and decisions, but because the cancer was caught early, her treatment was straightforward and successful. Today, she is cancer-free and grateful she never skipped her annual exam. Her story is a powerful reminder that routine screenings, though easy to put off, can save lives.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women, about 1 in 8 will be diagnosed in her lifetime. Thanks to routine mammograms, many cases are detected early, when treatment is most effective. Warning signs include new lumps, nipple changes, unusual discharge, or skin dimpling. Still, regular screening remains the strongest tool for early detection.
Ovarian cancer, while far less common, can be more dangerous because it’s often diagnosed late. Its symptoms are subtle: persistent bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, changes in appetite, or frequent urination. Because these signs mimic everyday issues, they’re easy to dismiss. Unfortunately, there’s no reliable early screening test, making awareness of symptoms and family history especially critical.
Shared risk factors include age, family history, and genetic mutations such as BRCA1 or BRCA2. Women with close relatives who’ve had breast or ovarian cancer should speak with their doctors about genetic testing and personalized screening plans.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, knowing your risk, and staying current on exams can all make a difference. Most importantly, women should never hesitate to speak up if something feels “off.” Trusting your instincts and advocating for yourself can change the course of care. Awareness, action, and early detection save lives.
3 QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR DOCTOR
When should I begin mammograms or genetic testing based on my family history?
What symptoms should prompt me to schedule an immediate appointment?
Are there preventive steps I can take now to lower my risk?
DID YOU KNOW?
1 in 8 women will face breast cancer.
Ovarian cancer is often found late.
Family history doubles cancer risk.
BRCA genes raise risk for both cancers.
KNOW THE WARNING SIGNS
Breast: new lump, nipple changes, dimpling, discharge
At 56, Angie blamed persistent fatigue on stress. She was working long hours, juggling family commitments, and assumed being tired was just part of this season of life. When a dull ache spread into her jaw and she began feeling short of breath, she finally saw her doctor. The diagnosis surprised her: early signs of heart disease.
Maria’s story isn’t uncommon. Heart disease is the leading cause of death among women in the United States, claiming more lives each year than all forms of cancer combined. Yet many women don’t recognize the warning signs. While men often experience the “classic” chest pain, women’s symptoms can be far more subtle; think shortness of breath, nausea, extreme fatigue, or pain in the back, neck, or jaw.
Risk factors also hit women differently. Hormonal changes after menopause increase vulnerability, while conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and smoking raise risks even more. Family history can play a role, but lifestyle choices often have the biggest impact.
The good news is that heart disease is often preventable. Knowing your numbers (blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar) provides a clear picture of heart health. Making small but steady changes can create lasting protection. Even a twenty-minute walk most days of the week, trading sugary drinks for water, or adding more colorful vegetables to your plate can lower your risk.
Managing stress is equally important. Chronic stress raises blood pressure and contributes to unhealthy habits like overeating or poor sleep. Finding calming practices such as yoga, meditation, journaling, or even a quiet moment on the porch helps restore balance.
Your heart is the engine that keeps you going, for your family, your work, and yourself. Women must advocate for themselves! If something feels off, don’t brush it aside. Speak up, seek a second opinion if needed, and remember that your health deserves priority. Awareness and action, taken today, can prevent a crisis tomorrow.
3 QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR PROVIDER
What should my target blood pressure and cholesterol levels be?
Given my age and family history, how often should I be screened?
What small changes could make the biggest difference for me right now?
DID YOU KNOW?
Heart disease is the #1 killer of women.
1 in 3 women will die from heart disease.
Symptoms often differ from men’s.
Risk rises after age 55.
KNOW THE WARNING SIGNS
Shortness of breath at rest
Unusual fatigue or weakness
Nausea, dizziness, or cold sweats
Jaw, back, or neck pain
Mild chest discomfort
HEALTHY HEART TIPS
30 minutes of walking most days lowers risk.
Quitting smoking cuts risk in half in 1 year.
Managing stress lowers blood pressure.
Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains protect the heart.
Sewtown is a place to learn, create, and connect through sewing. Located in Fort Smith, Sewtown can help bring your project to life with quality notions, accessories, and a wide range of sewing machines. Their friendly, knowledgeable staff provide expert guidance, plus professional machine maintenance and repair to keep you stitching with confidence. Whether you’re just beginning or have years of experience, Sewtown’s classes and workshops are designed to inspire and grow your skills at every level. From learning the basics to tackling advanced projects, you’ll find encouragement and community in every class. Stop by Sewtown and discover a welcoming space where creativity and connection thrive.
Elite Wellness & Aesthetics, founded in 2024 by Amanda Day, APRN, and Carrisa Patrick, APRN, is a women-owned clinic offering a whole-person approach to healthcare in the River Valley. As the only local clinic serving both men and women with medical and aesthetic care, they provide an inclusive, comprehensive experience. Their in-house Quest lab streamlines diagnostics, while advanced lasers support both sexual health and cosmetic treatments. Patients also benefit from preventive care, supplements, injectables, and specialized services from The Elite Esthetician Jami Cox, and Fit Culture training with Mary Popp. With a focus on proactive wellness and personalized solutions, Elite Wellness & Aesthetics empowers individuals to take charge of their health and feel their best.
CARRISA
6230 Massard Rd., Ste. C, Fort Smith
At the Menopause Center by Onyx, we specialize in helping women navigate perimenopause and menopause with confidence and support. Our services include comprehensive hormone evaluations, advanced hormone replacement therapy (HRT) (including bioidentical hormone pellets, topical, oral, and transdermal options), personalized treatment plans for symptom relief, and ongoing monitoring to ensure safety and effectiveness. Beyond hormones, we provide guidance on bone, brain, and heart health, lifestyle and nutrition support, and individualized wellness care. Our team of certified menopause specialists is committed to restoring balance, improving quality of life, and empowering women to thrive during every stage of midlife.
S. Waldron Rd., Fort Smith
Experience personalized eyecare at Stiles Eye Group! We don’t follow the one-size-fits-all approach. We recognize your eyes are distinct with unique needs and characteristics. Through advanced technologies like digital imaging, Dr. Stiles and Dr. Friday can customize treatment plans and prescriptions. They can also address specific issues such as refractive errors, diabetic eye issues, dry eyes, and age-related concerns, ensuring optimal vision and comfort. Our caring approach starts by understanding your lifestyle, habits, and family history, so we can offer preventive measures and early interventions, promoting long-term eye health. Our patient-centered approach not only enhances vision but also fosters a deeper connection with our valued patients, for a more holistic and valued eyecare experience. Call today!
FOCUSED ON YOU
Your eyes are as unique as your lifestyle. At Stiles Eye Group, we provide compassionate eye care using the latest imaging technology. Our patient-centered approach fosters strong connections, ensuring a more holistic and valued healthcare experience.
For Women, By Women. Reclaiming Menopause Together.
At The Menopause Center, we understand firsthand the challenges that come with perimenopause and menopause. This isn’t just our profession—it’s our passion.
A Partner in Your Journey
From energy and confidence to sleep, mood, and even skin and hair, this stage touches every part of life. We’re here with personalized care, whether hormone therapy, non-hormonal options, or rejuvenation treatments, to help you feel your best.
Custom Treatment Plans
Your journey starts with a private consultation, no referral needed. Together with our nurse practitioners, you’ll create a plan tailored to your history, symptoms, and goals. Flexible payment options like Cherry and Klarna make care simple and stress-free.
COMMON MENOPAUSE SYMPTOMS
Hair & Skin Changes
Hot Flashes & Night Sweats
Irregular Periods & Mood Changes
Joint & Muscle Pain
Sleep Disturbances & Cognitive Changes
Vaginal Dryness & Discomfort
Weight Gain & Metabolism Changes
LIFE CHANGING
SOLUTIONS
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
Hair Loss Treatment
You deserve to feel your best at every stage of life. At The Menopause Center, we’re here to make sure you do. To start your journey, visit menopausecenterfortsmith.com.
6230 Massard Rd., Fort Smith 479.551.2218 I menopausecenterfortsmith.com
Medical Weight Loss
Medication Management
Non-Hormonal Treatment Options
Symptom Management
Vaginal Rejuvenation
Navigating the Change
MENOPAUSE & PERIMENOPAUSE
words DO SOUTH
At 46, Angela began forgetting simple things, her keys, an appointment. She laughed it off as “mom brain,” but when sleepless nights, hot flashe, and mood swings followed, she worried something was wrong. Her doctor explained she was in perimenopause.
Angela’s story resonates with millions of women. Perimenopause often begins in the 40s, though symptoms can appear earlier. Menopause is defined as 12 months without a menstrual cycle, usually between ages 45 and 55. The years leading up to it can bring hormonal shifts and symptoms that range from inconvenient to downright disruptive.
Night sweats, and irregular cycles are common, but women may also face brain fog, joint pain, vaginal dryness, or heart palpitations. Sleep disturbances and mood changes are common and can be mistaken for depression or anxiety. These aren’t just “in your head,” but real physical effects of fluctuating estrogen and progesterone.
Beyond symptoms, menopause affects long-term health. The decline in estrogen raises the risk of osteoporosis, heart disease, and changes in cholesterol. The good news: women don’t have to suffer in silence. Open conversations with your doctor are vital. Treatment may include lifestyle changes, non-hormonal therapies, or hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
Simple steps make a difference. Regular exercise strengthens bones, improves mood, and helps ensure a good night's sleep. A balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D supports bone health. Prioritizing stress reduction and sleep hygiene eases symptoms and builds resilience.
Menopause isn’t an end; it’s a beginning. Every woman’s journey is unique. With awareness, self-advocacy, and the right care, you can move through the change not just with endurance, but with empowerment.
3 QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR DOCTOR
Should I consider hormone therapy, and what are the risks and benefits?
How can I best protect my bone health during this stage?
What screenings are most important for me right now?
DID YOU KNOW?
Perimenopause can last 4–10 years.
Menopause starts after 12 months without a period.
Hormonal shifts raise the risk of heart disease.
Early menopause (before 45) needs earlier screenings.
KNOW THE WARNING SIGNS
Irregular or heavy periods
Ongoing sleep problems
Brain fog or mood swings
Heart palpitations or joint pain
Vaginal dryness causing discomfort
QUICK RELIEF TIPS
Layer clothing to ease hot flashes.
Keep a fan or cooling pillow nearby.
Limit caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods.
Practice deep breathing or meditation.
Mind Over Matter
MENTAL HEALTH & WELLNESS
words DO SOUTH
At 31, Rachel was juggling a full-time job, two young children, and caregiving for her aging mother. From the outside, she looked like she had it all under control. Inside, she was unraveling. Sleepless nights, constant worry, and a sense of overwhelm she couldn’t shake. When a close friend took notice, she encouraged her to seek therapy. Rachel finally took the first step.
Rachel’s story is familiar. Women are nearly twice as likely as men to experience anxiety and depression, yet stigma keeps many from asking for help. Factors like hormonal shifts, caregiving responsibilities, and social pressures can all contribute to mental health struggles. Left unchecked, chronic stress doesn’t just affect mood, it impacts heart health, immunity, and overall well-being.
Warning signs often include loss of interest in activities once enjoyed, persistent fatigue, irritability, or changes in sleep and appetite. These symptoms aren’t signs of weakness; they’re signals that support is needed.
The good news is that help works. Therapy, support groups, lifestyle changes, and, when appropriate, medication can make a profound difference. Even small daily practices, like spending time outdoors, journaling, or connecting with trusted friends, can help restore balance. Self-care isn’t indulgence; it’s maintenance for both mind and body.
It’s important to remember that mental health is health. Just as women schedule mammograms or blood pressure checks, emotional well-being deserves the same attention. Reaching out is an act of strength, not weakness. By speaking up, seeking help, and supporting one another, women can break the stigma and build lives filled with resilience and joy.
3 QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR DOCTOR
What signs suggest I need professional support?
Is therapy, medication, or both right for me?
What does a healthy routine look like?
DID YOU KNOW?
Women are nearly 2X as likely to face anxieety or depression.
1 in 7 mothers experience postpartum depression.
Chronic stress raises the risk of heart disease.
Only half of women with mental illness seek treatment.
KNOW THE WARNING SIGNS
Loss of interest in favorite activities
Persistent fatigue or trouble sleeping
Overwhelming sadness, hopelessness, or irritability
Difficulty concentrating on daily tasks
QUICK MOOD BOOSTERS
Step outside for fresh air and sunshine.
Write down three things you’re grateful for.
Listen to uplifting music or a podcast.
Call a friend and share how you’re feeling.
Tessa
At Healing Tree Women’s Counseling Center, we know how exhausting it can be to carry the weight of everyone else’s needs while yours go unnoticed. Many women come to us feeling stretched thin, invisible, and weary from giving more than they receive. You deserve a space where your story is honored, and your heart can finally rest. Our team of therapists offers individual counseling, as well as private and group healing retreats, created to help you pause, breathe, and feel supported. Healing is not about being fixed. It is about being cared for, understood, and discovering that you matter too. You are worthy of love, compassion, and a life that feels like your own again.
At our physician-owned practice in Chaffee Crossing, exceptional expertise meets compassionate care. Dr. Norma Smith, a diplomat of the American Venous and Lymphatic Society, leads our team with a commitment to excellence. Our ultrasound technicians are Registered Vascular Technologists or Registered Phlebology Sonographers, ensuring the highest level of diagnostic accuracy. With a staff of eight, we focus on building genuine, relationship-based connections, welcoming each patient with warmth and accessibility. What sets us apart is our dedication to listening. Dr. Smith and our team take time to hear your concerns, answer your questions, and involve you in every step of your care journey. Here, personalized treatment plans and focused attention create an experience centered on your individual vein health needs.
8101 McClure Dr., Ste. 301, Fort Smith 479.242.8300
jameskelly3md.com
Since 1996, Dr. James E. Kelly III has been a leading physician and independent surgeon specializing in plastic, hand, reconstructive, and cosmetic surgery. Board certified and fellowship trained in all these areas, Dr. Kelly has helped hundreds of patients regain mobility, self-esteem, and confidence. His practice is a center of excellence, offering expert care for birth defects, physical trauma, and cosmetic needs. Choosing a surgeon is an important decision, requiring careful consideration of qualifications, experience, and facilities. Our office uses state-of-the-art equipment with strict sterilization protocols for your safety, and our knowledgeable staff is ready to assist. Dr. Kelly accepts most insurances, making quality care accessible to the community.
Meet Vuori, meet obsession. This luxury brand blends softness, style, and performance, giving you freedom to pursue fitness goals and travel in total comfort. Founded in 2015 as a men’s activewear line, Vuori has expanded to women’s apparel, redefining workwear, athletic wear, and sportswear all in one. Their technical fabrics offer serious benefits, odor and wrinkle resistance, moisture wicking, UPF sun protection, and unmatched softness, ideal for workouts, daily routines, or your favorite adventures. The Woodsman Company has proudly partnered with Vuori since 2019 and carries the largest in-store selection in Arkansas. From highintensity support to everyday stretch, Vuori is performancedriven luxury you’ll want to live in.
Since 1996, Dr. James E. Kelly III has been a leading physician and independent surgeon specializing in plastic, hand, reconstructive, and cosmetic surgery. Board-certified and fellowship-trained in all these areas, Dr. Kelly has helped hundreds of patients regain mobility, self-esteem, and confidence.
Our state-of-the-art facility offers a wide range of services, including on-site X-rays, therapies, and enhanced confidentiality for our cosmetic patients!
8101 McClure Drive, Fort Smith, Arkansas 479 242 83 00
At Salon Elements, we celebrate women—their strength, their success, and the businesses and services that support them. Women continue to inspire change and create opportunities for future generations. As your go-to salon experts, we’re proud to stand alongside women in every stage of life, led by the example of our founder, Marcie Comstock.
Custom European Wig Collections • slim line volume extensions for fine hair
Custom Hair Replacements • Japanese Straightening & Keratin Treatments
Marcie Comstock is a trailblazer, entrepreneur, community leader, and creative force. She proves that determination and vision can inspire generations.
COMING SOON
Salon Elements Mane Vibe — a luxurious collection of 100% European human hair, 100% hand-tied customized wigs, extended wear toppers, and premium extensions for both retail and professional purchase. Exclusively brought to you by Marcie Comstock and the Salon Elements team, this line is designed to give you the ultimate in beauty, confidence, and style.
Marcie Comstock
At Salon Elements, every service begins with a belief in beauty as empowerment. Founder Marcie Comstock has built more than a salon, she’s created a space where artistry, innovation, and compassion meet. Known for her expertise in custom European wigs, slim-line extensions, and advanced color techniques, Marcie and her team are committed to helping clients look and feel their best. Private consultations provide comfort and discretion, while treatments like Japanese straightening and keratin services ensure confidence shines every day. This year brings an exciting addition: Mane Vibe, Marcie’s exclusive new line of 100% European human hair wigs, toppers, and extensions. Discover luxury, style, and confidence, only at Salon Elements.
Dr. Vera Collins Board Certified Physician 314 Lexington Ave., Fort Smith 479.649.3435 salonelements.com
2001 Dodson Ave., Fort Smith
229.669.7076
At Vera Bella Aesthetics, all treatments are performed by Dr. Vera Collins, a Board-Certified Physician with expertise in enhancing natural beauty. Dr. Collins offers a range of advanced aesthetic services, including facial fillers such as Belotero, Versa, and Radiesse, as well as neurotoxins like Botox, Xeomin, and Jeuveau. Her specialties include the Nefertiti neck lift, liquid facelifts, cheek enhancement, and lip augmentation using techniques like the popular Russian Lip method. For those looking to correct gummy smiles, sculpt jawlines, or rejuvenate the neck, Vera Bella Aesthetics has you covered. New clients can enjoy a special discount on their first appointment! Dr. Collins helps you achieve a refreshed, youthful appearance with precision and care. Call today!
*Ask About A First Time Appointment Discount! Appointments text: 229.669.7076 / vera.md@gmail.com | 2001 Dodson Ave., Fort Smith
When it comes to women’s lives, no two questions are the same, but solid advice makes all the difference. In this special feature, local experts share their insight on everything from health, wellness, and confidence to style, finances, and family life. Their expert answers highlight real solutions for real concerns designed to inform, empower, and inspire.
AESTHETICS & WELLNESS
Confidence, beauty, and renewal
ASPIRE AESTHETICS AND WELLNESS
Q: What’s one service that surprises women with its impact?
A: Our InMode EmpowerRF Women’s Wellness Platform combines two advanced treatments, FORMA-V and V-TONE, to help address urinary urgency and leakage, common after childbirth. FORMA-V uses radiofrequency energy to stimulate collagen in urogenital tissues, enhancing support around the urethra and vaginal walls. V-TONE adds targeted electromagnetic stimulation to the pelvic floor muscles, working like an automated Kegel to restore strength and function. Together, these therapies improve continence, strengthen the core, and even help ease constipation, offering a safe, non-surgical way to support pelvic health and overall wellness.
ELITE WELLNESS & AESTHETICS
Q: What makes your approach to women’s wellness and aesthetics unique?
A: We provide truly comprehensive care, blending holistic primary care, women’s wellness, menopause management, and advanced aesthetics. Our approach is personalized, using symptom-based treatments, detailed lab analysis, injectables, and specialized lasers. We cater to diverse patient needs with both cash-pay and insurance-based treatment options. Elite Wellness & Aesthetics seamlessly integrates both wellness and aesthetic services under one roof.
HEALING TREE WOMEN’S COUNSELING
Q: What challenges do women bring to counseling, and how do you help them?
A: Many women come to us feeling stretched thin. They give everything to everyone else and still feel invisible. Past wounds, daily responsibilities, and the quiet belief that they are never enough leave them weary. Women are often taught to over-give, but that
is not what they are for. In counseling, we help them remember that they matter too. We create a space where they can set down what has been heavy, be fully heard, and begin to rediscover who they are beyond what they do for others.
PASSMORE PLASTIC SURGERY
Q: What are the most common treatments patients request?
A: I perform a full range of procedures including breast augmentation, eyelid surgery, tummy tucks, liposuction, facelifts, breast lifts or reductions, and skin cancer removal with reconstruction. Recently, more patients are seeking solutions for excess skin following GLP-1 weight-loss therapy, surgery, or childbirth. Loose skin affects confidence, and often outpatient surgery is the best solution. In my practice, it starts with a discussion about body issues that cause you concern, followed by a customized plan to help you rebuild your confidence and feel good about your appearance.
WESTERN ARKANSAS PLASTIC & RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY
Q: How do you help women choose the right procedure?
A: Every consultation begins with understanding a woman’s routine, career or caregiving demands, and priorities. For those with busy schedules, less invasive options often work best, while others may choose more comprehensive procedures requiring downtime but offering broader results. I also factor in family planning and long-term goals to create realistic, sustainable treatment plans that fit seamlessly into each woman’s life while boosting her confidence.
HEALTHCARE
Symptoms, support, and innovation
ARKANSAS VEIN CLINIC AND SKIN CARE
Q: What are some of the latest vein care advancements?
A: Recent advancements have made the painful vein stripping of the past almost unheard of. Today, women can choose from safe, effective in-office treatments. Options include Endovenous Laser Ablation, which closes veins with energy, and VenaSeal, a medical adhesive often called “superglue” for varicose veins. Other treatments, such as Varithena Microfoam Injections, Sclerotherapy, and Microphlebectomy, collapse or remove problem veins with minimal discomfort. Most patients recover in 24 to 48 hours, with only mild, short-lived bruising or swelling.
BAPTIST HEALTH BREAST CENTER
Q: What advances in breast imaging are helping women today?
A: For women with dense breast tissue, which raises cancer risk and makes tumors harder to detect, new technology provides added peace of mind. The Invenia ABUS 2.0, available at Baptist Health Breast Center–Fort Smith, is the only FDA-approved automated ultrasound of its kind, designed to improve detection in dense breasts. Used with mammography, it gives a more complete, accurate picture. In addition, Baptist Health includes breast density information in all mammography reports, available in MyChart, so women have greater insight into their breast health.
CENTER FOR HEARING AND BALANCE
Q: What are the first signs of hearing loss or balance issues?
A: Early signs are often subtle; difficulty following conversations in noisy spaces, turning up the TV, or asking others to repeat themselves. Balance issues may show up as dizziness, unsteady walking, or feeling off-kilter when standing quickly. These changes shouldn’t be ignored, as they often progress gradually. Recognizing them early and scheduling an evaluation can make a significant difference.
THE MENOPAUSE CENTER
Q: What inspired the creation of The Menopause Center?
A: Menopause has long been underrepresented in medical training, leaving women dismissed or confused as they face disruptive symptoms including sleep loss, mood shifts, hot flashes, brain fog, and sexual health concerns. At Onyx, we saw the need for specialized, compassionate care and the center is our way of saying: women deserve specialized, compassionate, evidence-based care during this transition. Led by nurse practitioners certified by the Menopause Society, we guide women through perimenopause and menopause with evidencebased medical, lifestyle, and supportive options.
LIFESTYLE & BEYOND
Inspiration for daily living
JOHN MAYS JEWELERS
Q: What jewelry trends are most exciting for women right now?
A: Gold, gold, and more gold! Fine jewelry in 18–22kt yellow gold is making a strong comeback across all styles, from classic chains to bold bangles. Unlike hollow designs, solid gold carries a distinctive weight and sound, and it won’t dent or bend over time. We’re also seeing a rise in colored gemstones paired with yellow gold. The warmth of the setting enhances each stone’s natural hues, making them shine brighter than ever.
SALON ELEMENTS
Q: How do you guide women deciding between extensions, wigs, or toppers?
A: Our new custom European wigs have been a true game-changer. Made with 100% European human hair, they look and feel completely natural, perfect for women facing hair loss or those who want a versatile, high-quality style without commitment. When choosing between wigs, extensions, or toppers, I encourage clients to think about their lifestyle and goals. Extensions are ideal for adding length, volume, and fullness to healthy hair. Wigs allow for complete transformation and coverage, while toppers add subtle fullness to thinning areas. In the end, it’s about confidence and what makes you feel radiant.
SEWTOWN
Q: What inspires women to start sewing, and how do you help beginners feel confident?
A: Women are often drawn to sewing to express creativity, make unique items, or create meaningful gifts. Others love the practicality: saving money, altering clothing, or refreshing something they already own. First
stitches can be intimidating, so we help beginners start small with projects that deliver quick wins while teaching core skills. Our instructors offer encouragement, tips, and hands-on guidance so students feel supported. Sewing should be joyful, not stressful, and confidence grows as women see their progress and celebrate each success, no matter how small.
UNITED FINANCIAL ADVISORS
Q: What’s a financial myth you often hear from women?
A: One of the most common is, “I don’t really manage the money.” The truth is, whether you do now or not, chances are you’ll manage it later. Statistically, 80% of men die married, while 80% of women die single. That means many women eventually take control of finances, often during stressful transitions such as divorce or the loss of a spouse. Too often, they’re left trying to build trust with an unfamiliar advisor. That’s why I encourage women to get involved early: ask questions, join the meetings, and establish that relationship now, before life throws a curveball.
THE WOODSMAN COMPANY
Q: What products or gear are especially popular with women right now?
A: Women’s outdoor apparel has evolved, with brands focusing on fit, fabrics, and style. Vuori and Free Fly have introduced soft, performanceready pieces that feel both technical and elegant. Patagonia and Kuhl expanded size ranges from 0 to 18, with new waistband designs that add comfort and versatility. The result is clothing that not only performs in a range of activities but also brings sophistication and style.
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