Gaze - October 2016

®

GAZE

October 2016 DoSouthMagazine.com

CONTENTS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF / OWNER Catherine Frederick CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Scott Frederick MANAGING EDITOR Marla Cantrell CONTRIBUTING WRITERS / PHOTOGRAPHERS Marla Cantrell Kellie Cobb Catherine Frederick Nancy Hartney John Post Rachel Putman Addi McNeel Jessica Sowards James Steufix GRAPHIC DESIGNER Artifex 323 - Jessica Mays

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PROOFREADER Charity Chambers PUBLISHER Read Chair Publishing, LLC

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INSIDE

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FINN Finnie Wigglebutt has come a long way since he was found abandoned in the woods, with little hope of surviving. Meet the women who saved him, and how he’s returning the love tenfold.

NO TRICKS, JUST TREATS

ADVERTISING INFORMATION Catherine Frederick - 479.782.1500 Catherine@DoSouthMagazine.com

EDITORIAL INFORMATION Marla Cantrell - 479.831.9116 Marla@DoSouthMagazine.com

A mummy, a jack-o-lantern, and Frankenstein take on new roles as yummy mini-cakes in mason jars.

Frightfully delicious and easy-peasy to make!

©2016 Read Chair Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved. The opinions contained in Do South® are exclusively those of the writers and do not represent those of Read Chair Publishing, LLC. as a whole or its affiliates. Any correspondence to Do South® or Read Chair Publishing, LLC., including photography, becomes the property of Read Chair Publishing, LLC. Do South® reserves the right to edit content and images. Printed in the U.S.A. | ISSN 2373-1893

STUFFED

Cover Image: Karuka

You'll never see baby pumpkins the same way again.

We've stuffed them with grains and shrimp along with Andouille sausage for a meal that will have you praising autumn's bounty.

ARKTOBER Oh, Arkansas, how we love you in the fall. Soft breezes, bright leaves, and so many fall festivals we could celebrate every single weekend.

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FOLLOW US Annual subscriptions are $30 (12 months), within the contiguous United States. Subscribe at DoSouthMagazine.com or mail check to 7030 Taylor Avenue, Suite 5, Fort Smith, AR, 72916.

Single issues are available upon request for $7.

Inquiries or address changes, call 479.782.1500.

letter from the editor

F

Falling for fall. It’s what I do

paint murals and create sculptures in the downtown area, and

every year. As much as I love

an additional mural in Fayetteville. If you haven't seen them yet,

summer, I adore everything

please make plans to do so.

about this season. From the crisp, cool mornings to the

It wouldn't be Do South® without those heart-tugging stories

sun snuggling low on the

we love so much. You won't find a better one than the tale

horizon early in the evenings.

of Finnie Wigglebutt, a stray lost in the woods and rescued by

It means football and fire

the volunteers of the Charleston Dog Shelter. Today, Finnie has

pits, layers of warmth on my

been adopted by a woman who says he changed her life, and

bed, a kaleidoscope of leaves

he's giving back, visiting the young and old alike, bringing joy

outside my windows, and the crunch of the frost-covered

everywhere he goes.

ground beneath my boots. It also means the start of fall festivals and soul-warming foods bubbling in the oven, creating

And while you have your tissues out, read Jessica Sowards'

tempting scents, as thick as a blanket, wafting through the air.

powerful essay on women and friendship and why it matters.

Then, read our article about natural remedies to get you ready

We were thinking of all these things as we put together this

for the upcoming cold and flu season in the hopes you won’t

issue. We started by gathering sixteen festivals that showcase

need those tissues as much!

what's unique about Arkansas, from cornbread and outhouse races to arts and crafts shows, and of course lots of great music.

As always, Marla Cantrell has written a short story that connects us to the South. Read "The State Bird of Arkansas," about a

From there, we found a recipe you're going to love that starts

math-challenged woman, the job that nearly did her in, the

with baby pumpkins! Oh my goodness, it's so delicious. And then

stranger she met who gave her back her confidence.

I stepped in to make two fun and easy crafts for Halloween. I don't know which is my favorite, the planter/vase made from a jack-o-

All this, plus a great book recommendation, and an entire special

lantern treat bucket or the Frankenstein cake made in a mason jar.

section devoted to our women readers. Learn about the busi-

So cute! Try them both and let me know what you think!

nesses, products, and services that can make your life better!

In October, hiking is an epic pastime in Arkansas, and we

Now that our October issue is on the stands, I'm already looking

talked to Jim Warnock, the principal at Alma Intermediate

forward to Thanksgiving. Time passes so quickly, so I'd like to

School and a wonderful writer, whose hiking book on the

encourage you to savor every moment. I plan to do the same,

Ozarks is being released in just a few days.

loving every day of fall, and treasuring the beauty of Arkansas.

Around Fort Smith, everyone's talking about The Unexpected Project that brought international artists to town once again to

~Catherine

Follow Do South® Magazine

To reserve this free space for your charitable non-profit organization, email: Editors@DoSouthMagazine.com

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UPCLOSE&PERSONAL

&

UP CLOSE PERSONAL

Wendy Dean D&D Floor Covering 1323 Main Street Van Buren, Arkansas 479.474.0533 DDFloorCovering.com

ABOUT D&D FLOOR COVERING D&D Floor Covering is a complete home design center selling and professionally installing all types of floor coverings and custom window treatments.

We are designers and decorators who can help our clients create kitchens, baths, whole houses, and commercial businesses that will function beautifully and look extraordinary. Our large showroom is a treat to visit with lots to see. We're known for our exceptional service and help in making the process of change fun and easy.

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UPCLOSE&PERSONAL

WORDS TO LIVE BY:

"Kill them with kindness."

MOST PEOPLE WOULD BE SURPRISED TO LEARN THAT I

trout fish.

3 PRODUCTS WENDY CAN'T LIVE WITHOUT:

Lip gloss, snacks, the Word.

WHEN I WAS A KID, I WANTED TO GROW UP TO BE

a teacher.

I NEVER MET

THE MOST UNUSUAL THING IN MY FRIDGE IS

sourdough starter.

I WAS BORN IN

a kid I didn't like.

MY WORST HABIT IS

Harrison, Arkansas.

I LIVE IN

Van Buren.

The last time I did something that scared me was when I learned to scuba dive.

that I try to finish my husband's sentences.

MY BEST HABIT IS

that I love to cook.

I'M INSPIRED BY

my family and friends.

IF I COULD CHOOSE AN ACTOR TO PLAY MY LIFE, IT WOULD BE

THE BEST THING ABOUT MY JOB IS

Sandra Bullock.

helping people make their dream home come to life.

MY FIRST CAR WAS A

1964 Chevy Nova with a 327 engine.

MY FIRST JOB WAS

I never leave home without lip gloss.

as an assistant coach for a summer baseball program.

IF CALORIES DIDN'T COUNT,

I'd eat potato chips and dip every day.

My favorite fashion trend is scarves.

MY BEST FRIENDS DESCRIBE ME AS MY FAVORITE THING ABOUT ARKANSAS IS

the four distinct seasons.

MY SUPERPOWER IS

kind-hearted.

IF I COULD TAKE A YEAR OFF FROM MY JOB,

I'd visit all the national parks.

MY BEST HALLOWEEN COSTUME EVER WAS

Snow White.

God.

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MY GRANDDAUGHTER

always makes me smile.

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poetry

Front THE

Porch LINEs Kellie Cobb

In Summer it's bugs and webs and such.

In Fall it's acorns and leaves.

I really don’t mind it all that much Except when it makes me sneeze.

Which would, of course, be in the Spring When the whole dang porch is yellow, And dragging a broom through that miserable stuff Makes me a miserable fellow.

So give me webs and acorns and leaves Fall comes and goes without warning.

Here in the South you know it’s Fall When the day is as cool as the morning.

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calendar

OCTOBER 7

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Submit your events to editors@dosouthmagazine.com

Family fun, great shopping, live music, a kids' carnival, lots of food, and helicopter rides, all on Main Street in downtown Van Buren. Free to attend, see website for details.

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Survivors' Challenge and Over the Edge Fort Smith reynoldscancersupporthouse.org

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Bobby Bones & The Raging Idiots, 8pm Fort Smith itickets.com

The Donald W. Reynolds Cancer Support House is hosting the Survivors’ Challenge with a 10K Grand Prix, 5K Run/Walk, Celebration Walk and wheelchair race.

Also, fundraisers will be rappelling down First National Bank on Garrison Avenue.

See website for details.

Musical comedy group Bobby Bones & The Raging Idiots, known for their "bro country" sound, will perform at the ArcBest Performing Arts Center in Fort Smith. See website for pricing.

7-9

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Read, Write, Share Fort Smith writingourworldpress.com

Fall Festival Arts and Crafts Fair Van Buren oldtownvanburen.com

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This one-day writers' workshop is for anyone interested in writing memoir and personal stories and is hosted by author Janis Kearney. Published authors will share their work. See website for pricing and enrollment.

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21, 22, 28, 29, 31T H Murder and Mayhem Haunted Trolley Tour Fort Smith fortsmithmuseum.org Take a ride through downtown Fort Smith, the Belle Grove District, and nearby areas to hear eerie local legends.

Enjoy Halloween treats, drinks, and ghost stories along with the haunted areas of the Fort Smith Museum of History. 21 & over, reservations required. See website for pricing and details.

calendar

THETOPTENTHETOPTEN 22

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Taste of Fort Smith Fort Smith Find them on Facebook Head to the Fort Smith Convention Center to sample food and drinks from area restaurants. Tickets are $15 per person, per meal. Five local charities benefit from the proceeds. Tickets at the door, or in advance at the Fort Smith Chamber. See Facebook for details.

Oktoberfest Fort Smith downtownfs.com The fun starts at the downtown Fort Smith Farmer's Market with pony rides beginning at 9am. A pumpkin carving contest begins at 10am. Live music, an art walk, a car show, and even a haunted house! See website for details.

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Girls Shelter Pasta Dinner/Silent Auction Fort Smith girlsshelterfs.org A great pasta dinner, a silent auction, and all proceeds benefit the Girls Shelter. Curbside pickup is also available. This event is in memory of Brenda Stovall and is being held at Westark Church of Christ Family Center. See website for pricing and details.

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29, 30 T H 40/29 & The Arkansas CW Women's Living Expo Fort Smith

Cause for Paws Dinner and Awards Fort Smith

womenslivingexpo.com/FortSmith2016

Kay Rodgers Park Expo Center is the place to be for a night of music, dinner, a live and silent auction, and an awards presentation, all to benefit the animals at the Sebastian County Humane Society. Tickets available at the shelter.

See website for pricing and details.

Fashion shows, cooking classes, costume contests, and tons of shopping at the Fort Smith Convention Center. More than 200 exhibitors, special events and experts in health, fitness, families, finance, career, home, food, entertaining, and more.

See website for pricing and details.

sebastiancountyhumanesociety.org

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community

THE

Strikes Again images courtesy Mike Bell, Bryan Alexis, and Raymesh Cintro’n

For the second year in a row, The Unexpected, an arts and culture initiative curated by JUSTKIDS, struck downtown Fort Smith, Arkansas. In their wake, they left behind representations from cultures around the globe and vibrant reminders of why art matters.

For a map featuring artists and addresses for each project, visit 646downtown.com, or download The Unexpected FS App from the App Store or Google Play.

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community

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entertainment

Half Wild

by Robin MacArthur Ecco and imprint of Harper Collins | 207 pages | $24.99 review Marla Cantrell

I was once told that you should treat every word in a short story

him to come home, she reflects on her life before Vermont, when

as if it was on trial for its life. In short stories, there's no room for

she lived unremarkably in Ohio. She thinks about the day she gave

long descriptions or time to meander inside the mind of a char-

her son a book of poetry when he graduated from high school,

acter. You put your characters to work from the first sentence,

hoping his life would be easier than hers. One night, as her neigh-

and you follow them on their epic journeys, which is why I love

bors throw a Christmas party, she watches as they dance inside

short stories so much.

their big, bright house. And when her doorbell rings later, she fears someone's come with bad news about her boy. But the visit

So, when I found Robin MacArthur's debut book, Half Wild, I felt

brings her hope, which she sees as a Christmas miracle.

a wave of anticipation. The book is a collection of eleven intertwined short stories, all set in rural Vermont, all told by those

My favorite story was "Love Bird" which chronicles the last days

who live there, who have an unbreakable bond with the place

of a man named Tub, who charmed women and horses, and his

they call home.

wife, Vi. As they travel the roads they know so well, they look back on their life together, the unending love they have, and the

This book, however, doesn't show a picture-perfect postcard of

place they call home. At the local cemetery, they read the names

Vermont. Winters are bitter. Two of the characters live in a house

on the stones, Constance, Ezekial, Zipporah, Desire. The dates

that's nothing more than a collection of tarpaper rooms, built

go all the way back to 1790, and many are ancestors of Tub's.

one after the other like a maze. Others live in trailers or ancient farmhouses in need of repair. But there is also beauty, views of

When Vi talks about meeting Tub for the first time, she says, "He

the mountains, places where you can see all the way to New

was charmed by me, too. Sixteen in a truck, pretty as any of these

Hampshire, fields that hold a kind of glory.

young back-to-the-land women are, but I knew how to rope a horse and build a shed and strip the bark off a tree. Now I've been

In "Maggie in the Trees," Pete falls in love with his best friend's

weathered by sun and wind, and I know I'm missing one front

wife, and the fact wrenches his heart. When Maggie goes

tooth, but it's okay. Tub loves me just the same. That I know."

missing, Pete and Maggie's husband search for her, looking in the deep woods near her home, staying up nights searching for

That love, constant, unending, is the star of this brilliant book. Half

any sign of life.

Wild will make you consider the value of home, the people you let into your life, and the importance of living where you do.

In "The Long Road Turns to Joy," Apple is a single mom who's only son is fighting the war in Afghanistan. While she prays for

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entertainment

Louis Sachar

TRUE LIT

True Lit 2015

Words Nancy Hartney image courtesy Fayetteville Public Library

E

Each October, the Fayetteville Public Library celebrates the world

Fayetteville Public Schools, Fayetteville Education Foundation,

of writing. The literary event is called True Lit, its name a play

Fayetteville Montessori School, the University of Arkansas Program

on True Grit, the famous book and subsequent movie written by

in Creative Writing and Translation, and the Walton Arts Center

renowned Arkansas author, Charles Portis.

co-sponsor the festival.

Putting together the festival takes hard work and lots of planning,

This year's True Lit Festival begins October 18 with Linda Williams

and each year the staff at the library is amazed by the response

Palmer’s evening discussion and presentation of her original

they get from those who attend. As for this year's line-up, Lolly

sketches, Champion Trees of Arkansas: An Artist’s Journey, which

Greenwood, the Fayetteville Director of Youth and Outreach

captures the beauty of our Arkansas hills and plains.

Services and True Lit Coordinating Chair, says she couldn't be more excited. And that excitement starts with the keynote speaker.

Linda Leavell, the author of Holding On Upside Down: The Life

“Author Louis Sachar, winner of the National Book Award and

and Work of Marianne Moore, presents a hands-on workshop,

Newbery Medal, writes children's books," Lolly says. "Although

“Narrative Nonfiction: Turning Facts into Story.” Winner of the

best known for the Wayside School series and Holes, he’s also

PEN Award and Plutarch Award for 2013, the book was also a

written There’s a Boy in the Girls’ Bathroom, Fuzzy Mud, and Small

finalist for the National Book Critics Circle Award.

Steps. This is our fourth year in a row that we have featured a Newbery Award-winning author as our keynote.”

With more than forty books to his credit, William Bernhardt leads writers in the “Fundamentals of Fiction.” He’s best known for

Lolly says the Fayetteville Literary Festival became a reality when

his blockbuster Ben Kincaid mystery series and the Red Sneakers

“the partners realized that individually we were all promoting

how-to books on writing. By the way, he can beat you at Scrabble

the same goal of literature, literacy and the love of reading. We

and work the New York Times crossword in under five minutes.

realized we could offer more collectively than as individuals.”

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entertainment

There will be a workshop designed for poets led by UA's Geof-

Claudia Rankine, the author of five poetry collections, two plays,

frey Brock called “Generating Poetry Imitations.” This workshop

and editor of several anthologies, appears as the University of

offers an introduction to poetic imitation, the process of creating

Arkansas Program in Creative Writing and Translation Distin-

new poems by using existing poems as models. They will examine

guished Reader on the following Thursday, October 27. She is best

several famous instances of poetic imitation by poets such as

known for Citizen: An American Lyric.

W.B. Yeats, Donald Justice, and Anne Carson, and participants will write an imitation of their own as an in-class exercise.

It's an exciting line-up, and Lolly says there's something at True Lit for every age. “Our event has grown from one day into a multi-

By Saturday, authors, and writers, craft tools firmly in hand,

day extravaganza for teens, adults, and children with author talks,

will have an opportunity for a one-on-one session with book

live music, art, writing workshop, and reading suggestions. We

publishers to pitch their work for publication. Graphic novelist

encourage all ages to read and tell their stories. I’m so proud of

Cole Closser and self-publication guru Darcy Pattison also appear.

our community and their support of literacy.”

On Sunday UA Press Spotlight Author Jerry McConnell presents

The festival is offered each October. Through the combined

The Improbable Life of the Arkansas Democrat, a non-fiction

efforts of co-sponsors and partnering organizations, The Fayette-

account of how a second-place paper overtook the oldest news-

ville Literary Festival has hosted such notables as Lois Lowry, Jack

paper west of the Mississippi and changed Arkansas journalism

Gantos, Jacqueline Woodson, Zadie Smith, Roy Reed, Donald

and Arkansas history.

Harington, Jericho Brown, Miller Williams, and Daniel Woodrell.

The 2016 Festival may just be the best one yet.

True Lit 2016 Day-by-Day Schedule of Events

“Self-Publishing IS an Option” with writer Darcy Pattison Cole Closser with “Graphic Novels for Adults”

October 17 - “Three-day Youth Writing Camp” with Clayton Scott

October 23 - Jerry McConnell - UA Press Spotlight presentation: The Improbable Life of the Arkansas Democrat, music with harpist Beth Stockdell, and Small Hands Montessori Art Walk

October 18 - Champion Trees of Arkansas: An Artist’s Journey with Linda Williams Palmer

October 24 - “Writing Camp for Teens” with Clayton Scott October 19 - “Narrative Nonfiction: Turning Facts into Story” with biographer Linda Leavell October 20 - “Fundamentals of Fiction” with author William Bernhardt

October 25 - “The Great Reveal: Rare Books Up Close and Personal” with Valerie Sallis of Crystal Bridges October 26 - Open Public Presentation with Newbery Award winner and keynote guest author Louis Sachar

October 21 - “Generating Poetry Imitations” with Geoffrey Brock October 22, Various, Full-day Events Book publisher presentation followed by one-on-one pitch sessions; sign-up required Darcy Pattison reads from Nefertiti, the Spidernaut Cole Closser with “Graphic Novels for Teens”

October 27 - University of Arkansas Program in Creative Writing and Translation Distinguished Reader Claudia Rankine, author of Citizen: An American Lyric All events take place at the Fayetteville Public Library unless otherwise noted. For more information, call 479.856.7250 or visit TrueLitFest.com 2016

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shop

Make Fall Even Brighter - Shop Local! words Catherine Frederick imageS Catherine Frederick and vendors

Paul Smith Spectacles

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Delicious, Customizable Cookie Cakes

Baileys Pumpkin Spice and Crown Royal Vanilla Flavored Whiskey

GREAT AMERICAN COOKIES 479.452.9999

IN GOOD SPIRITS 479.434.6604

Brighton Keychains and Christo by Brighton with Interchangeable Leathers

Bernhardt Palma Canopy Bed, Palma Bench, Goodman Dresser

GALLIVANTING LADIES APPAREL

479.434.4920

479.646.7555

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H3 HOME + DÉCOR

shop

Shop local and come away with unique products that will get you ready for the changing season.

An added bonus? You'll be supporting your community. We call that a win-win!

Fossil Handbag and Wallet, Corky's Zip-Up Booties

SUNSHINE SHOP AT MERCY FORT SMITH 479.314.6079

Sweet Dream Pendant, 1.15cts., 18kt. White Gold

JOHN MAYS JEWELERS 479.452.2140

The Original Trader Vic’s Macadamia Nut Liqueur, Clear Creek Apple Brandy, Pearl Pumpkin Spice Vodka

SODIE’S WINE & SPIRITS 479.783.8013

Reversible Cape with Detachable Faux Fur Collar, Simply Noelle Hobo Bag, Accent Buckle Fedora

JENNIFER’S GIFT SHOP AT SPARKS HEALTH 479.441.4221

Wool Area Rugs

D&D FLOOR COVERING 479.474.0533

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pets

Lost and Found Adopt your furry soulmate!

F

F

F

M

Candace

Cassidy

M

Bogie

Kyra

F

Boomer Sooner

Vanna White

Charleston Dog Shelter Donations are always needed and greatly appreciated.

Charleston Dog Shelter | Charleston, AR 72933 | 479.965.3591 | Find us on Petfinder™ |

Each month, Do SouthÂŽ donates this page to local and regional non-profit animal shelters. If you work with a shelter and would like to reserve this space, please email editors@dosouthmagazine.com.

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people

THE AMAZING

Finnie Wigglebutt Words Marla Cantrell images courtesy Danielle Sewell

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

people

I

In July, as the heat of summer spun out of control, Finnie

world because I don't think I can do it.' And she said, 'Mom,

(Finn) Wigglebutt struggled to survive. At ten weeks old, the

don't even talk like that.'"

part Australian shepherd, part Catahoula, weighed only nine pounds. Lost in the woods in Alma, Arkansas, he hunted for

In the time it took Janet to reach the clinic, Sophie decided things

food and water to keep him alive. Mange had taken almost all

would get better if the pup had a name. "Sophie was on her

his fur, and his skin, red and inflamed,

phone, looking at options. She said,

hurt as he walked. When he heard a

'We need a name that means warrior

distant howl or a hawk overhead, his

or survivor.' And as she searched those

head, which was perpetually bowed,

words, the name Finn came up."

dropped even lower. If Finn was good for anything, his demeanor seemed

Naming the puppy seemed to be a

to say, it was probably as a snack for

turning point. When they carried him

a predator as hungry as he was.

into the clinic, Finnie Wigglebutt was a puppy with a future, not an abandoned

In time, he made his way to the house

stray whose life was unbearable.

of a kind woman, who looked out her door and saw Finn. Just a few weeks

Dr. Holden had good news. He could

before, Finn's sister had shown up,

treat the pain, the parasites Finn had

and she'd treated her for mange. But

picked up, and the mange. And so

Finn's condition was so much worse,

Janet took him home. For days, he

and she knew he needed professional

slept on towels because his skin kept

help. She contacted every place she

peeling off, and his bedding needed

could think of. A call to Kitties and

to be changed often. Janet got up

Kanines Veterinarian Clinic in Fort Smith connected her to Janet Sewell,

through the night, checking on Finn, her hand softly touching the crown

Janet Sewell

a volunteer at the Charleston Dog

of his sweet head. She and her family

Shelter, which is about thirty-five

massaged him with coconut oil. They

miles from Alma.

hand-fed him. They carried him outside to go to the bathroom for the first two days. When it seemed as if his kidneys might

When Janet got the text message on July 11, her heart broke.

be shutting down, they gave him Pedialyte, a drink to combat

There on her phone was a photo of little Finn. He looked as if

dehydration, to pull him out of the crisis.

he'd been dipped in a pot of boiling water. Janet called Susan Hayes, another volunteer with the Charleston shelter. "I said, 'Susan, you may shoot me, but there's this pitiful little dog,' and Susan, without missing a beat, said, 'Go get the puppy!' If she had said the expense would have been too great because Finn was in such bad shape and it was highly likely he couldn't have been saved no matter how hard we tried, I would have

“Honestly, I fell for him the first time I saw him; there's something about his eyes."

- Janet Sewell

understood, but that's what's so great about Susan."

The following morning, Janet and her teenage daughter,

Three days after Janet brought Finn home, he stood up and ate.

Sophie, picked up Finn to take him to their vet. On the way to

The first week, he gained a pound a day. After he had mastered

Dr. Holden's office, Sophie held out great hope that Finn would

standing up, he walked, and then trotted, and by then, he'd

live. "But I had to tell her, 'You need to prepare yourself that he

stolen Janet's heart. "Honestly," she says, "I fell for him the first

may not come home with us. You can hold him as he leaves this

time I saw him; there's something about his eyes."

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people

Janet, who works at Charleston Schools, realized Finn's story

The money made a big difference to the Charleston Dog Shelter.

needed to be told. She started

They need about fifteen hundred

sharing his plight almost as soon as

dollars a month to operate, taking

she met him, on the shelter's Face-

care of approximately twenty-eight

book page. She's a great storyteller,

dogs. They don't receive municipal

and that gift along with the photos

monies, so their funding comes from

of Finn resonated across the nation.

donations and an occasional fifty

Soon, people from California and

dollar adoption fee.

Wisconsin and Illinois and New York and South Carolina were

Behind

commenting on the plight of this

growing closer and closer to Finn. As

incredible dog. And many of them

the days passed, his fur grew back,

were sending donations.

in tufts on his ears and tail, and the

the

scenes,

Janet

was

effect was like comic relief in a room When followers found out Finn

filled with tension. Janet knew she'd

could only eat scrambled eggs

have to give him up one day—she

and chicken, they donated fifty

has four rescue dogs of her own—

dozen eggs and eighty pounds of

but the idea caused her heart to

chicken, and since Finn couldn't

ache. Several people wanted Finn,

possibly eat it all, the dogs at the

and a few visited, but none seemed

shelter benefitted greatly. Then,

to make a connection the way that

Susan set up a Go Fund Me page

Jacky Fleming did.

Jacky Fleming

to help defer the high cost of treating Finn, and in three hours,

As for Jacky, she knew the first time

the one thousand dollar goal had been met, and not long

she held Finn, that her heart belonged to him. Since December

after, the number had risen to three thousand.

2015, she'd been unemployed. Jacky needed a purpose, and even though her husband assured her they'd be fine, she felt

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

people

empty. "I needed a point to my days," Jacky says, "and I already

wipes her eyes, and Finn jumps down to go to her, nudging

loved him. I begged Janet to let me have him."

her hand with his soft head. He has found a world where people are kind, he is adored, and treats keep coming like it's

When Finn was six weeks old, Janet agreed. Taking Finn to Jacky

Christmas morning. And that is miracle enough for this happy

was too much for her, so Janet's husband drove him. Since that

little dog named Finn.

time, Jacky has found her purpose again. And this time, it's playing second fiddle to a dog whose popularity grows by the day. "He's a born healer," Jacky says. And so she takes him places, driving him to visit the elderly or kids who are in crisis.

Finn seems to know what people need, his gentle heart the exact right medicine.

In August, Finn was helping raise money for the Charleston Shelter at Pet Smart in Fort Smith, and fans of his came all the way from Little Rock just to meet him.

These days, Jacky is filled with ideas. She thinks she'll have him certified as a therapy dog so that he can do even more good.

For more on the Charleston Dog Shelter, visit their Facebook page.

Charleston Dog Shelter has been caring for our area's homeless, adoptable dogs since 1997.

All-volunteer staff. No paid personnel.

No outside funding of any kind. Donations and an occasional $50 adoption fee for a fully-vetted dog make up our operating fund.

"I know it's cheesy, but they say a rescue dog can rescue you, and that's what he's done for me. Finn's done way more for me than I have for him. Janet saved him; she trained him, she taught him love. I got the easy part."

As Jacky says this, Finnie Wigglebutt shuttles between Jacky and Janet, his tail wagging. He jumps onto Janet's lap, and he

Community spay/neuter outreach program involving financial assistance to people in need who wish to spay/neuter their pets.

The shelter thanks the City of Charleston for allowing them the use of city land, city water, and electricity.

is so big Janet has a hard time holding him. But she draws him closer anyway and brushes a tear from her eye. And then Jacky

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diy

NO TRICKS,

JUST TREATS words and image Catherine Frederick inspired by Pinterest

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diy

Stop what you’re doing! You must make these adorable and delicious Halloween treats right now. Super easy, and just the right size for the little creatures in your life!

MATERIALS

METHOD

•

6 half-pint mason jars

Preheat oven to 350°. Prepare cake mix as directed

•

1 black Painter’s marker

on box. Divide batter evenly into 3 bowls. Use food

•

12 wiggly eyes

coloring to color 1 bowl green, 1 bowl orange and

•

Gauze, 2” width

leave 1 white.

•

Hot glue

•

Sprinkles

Fill jars halfway, a little less than ½ cup, (no more or

(black, green, white)

they will overflow). This makes 2 of each color. Place

•

1 box white cake mix

jars on baking sheet in center of oven. Bake 15-20

•

Food coloring

minutes. Check them beginning at the 15-minute mark

(green, orange) •

and remove before they begin to brown. Let cool.

1 can black icing

(I used Betty Crocker Decorating Cake Icing) •

1 tub buttercream icing

Decorate jars using marker, wiggly eyes, and gauze.

Place icing into separate piping bags, 1 for each color.

(I used Duncan Hines Homestyle)

Swirl frosting on top of cakes, add sprinkles. These

3 piping bags with desired tips

make adorable gifts, just be sure to screw on the lid!

•

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diy

P

P u m a p t ki n n a l

words and image Catherine Frederick inspired by Pinterest

Looking for a quick and inexpensive way to dress up your front porch or kitchen table? Grab a plastic pumpkin treat bucket and some Rust-oleum Hammered spray paint. Spray exterior of pumpkin, let dry. Fill with your favorite fall flowers. VoilĂ ! Instant gratification.

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people

Smith Creek Elise Falls

WHEN IN DOUBT words Marla Cantrell images courtesy Jim Warnock

"When in doubt, take a step." - Jim Warnock's mom

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J

Jim Warnock has worn down the soles of hiking shoes until

The blog started as a

they are as smooth as a pair of loafers. The erosion takes place

way to keep track of

over months, as he walks across hills, through valleys, beside

his adventures. He took

waterfalls that catch the sun's rays, throwing diamonds of light

photos that kept getting

across an already breathtaking landscape.

better, and he began to gain followers. A few

When he thinks about what it means to hike, it seems to him

years

that one of the great benefits is how it instills gratitude. Some-

writing occasional hiking

times, standing on a ledge overlooking an expanse of trees and

features for Do South®

water, he feels connected to earth and sky and all the animals

magazine. All this expe-

that inhabit them.

rience and a good dose

ago,

he

started

of natural talent caused As he traces his love for nature, he draws a straight line back

Menasha Ridge Press to

to his childhood in El Dorado, Arkansas, a town that now has

come calling, asking Jim to

approximately 19,000 residents. When he was seven years old,

write a trail guide for them.

Jim Warnock

his dad cleared a narrow path on their property that bordered a forest, and told Jim it was his trail. At seven years of age, the

Jim thought back to when he'd started hiking, and how nature

world can be anything you want, and a trail all your own can

photographer/writer Tim Ernst's guides opened doors for him.

be as miraculous as a moon rocket. Jim might have outgrown

On the trails, he'd consult his trail guide and marvel at Tim's

the glory of it, had his father not taken an interest in what it

ability to describe, in such vivid detail, what Jim was seeing as

meant to Jim. There on their land, his dad answered his ques-

he walked along.

tions about what he was seeing in the woods around him. Jim learned to identify trees by their leaves. He learned to listen to

So he said yes to the book. He initially felt a wave of trepidation,

the symphony that rises up in places that are far enough away

and then he remembered what his mother tells him. “When in

from cars and television sets and the rattle of everyday life.

doubt,” she says, “take a step.” And then he thought about the kids at Alma Intermediate, and what a gift it would be to

In those childhood years, he and his friends would sometimes

show them that dreams do come true and that learning new

camp in the woods, and he'd walk back to his home in the early

things lasts a lifetime.

morning hours to get fresh eggs from the chicken coop to fry for breakfast. He could stay away from home for a few hours at a time without causing concern, riding his bike, playing with friends, and looking back he sees that the freedom he took for granted doesn't exist in a child's world today. At school, when he heard his teachers read aloud, he was mystified. "I thought writing was magic," Jim says.

So, the love of these two things, nature and storytelling, developed early in life.

Sixteen years ago, Jim took over as principal at the intermediate school in Alma, Arkansas. Part of the allure of the new position was how close the town is to the Ozark Highlands Trail, which starts at Lake Fort Smith State Park. After he and his family had moved, he hit the trails. Hiking brought new friends, and eventually, Jim

Rocky Falls to Klepzig Mill

started chronicling his journeys on his blog, Ozark Mountain Hiker.

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In mid-October, Jim's book, Five-Star Trails: The Ozarks, debuts.

Jim took the photos, hiked the featured trails at least twice, and carefully described every one of them. The book covers fortythree trails, split almost evenly between Arkansas and Missouri, and Jim can't pick a favorite. He is excited, though, to share the Smith Creek Trail with readers, a place that is not as widely known. "I heard about that trail at a restaurant in Jasper, and it's a little jewel on the Buffalo River." Lake Alma Trail is another exciting chapter for Jim since it's not been written up in any trail guide before.

On the cover of the book, is Jim's dog, a black pup that adopted Alley Spring Mill

him while he and some friends were on the Ozark Highlands Trail. "This skin-and-bones dog came walking up on Mile 138," Jim says, "and we did not have any interest in that dog. But she curled up and slept nearby, and the next morning she followed us at a distance, and it was cold. The second night we started feeding her tuna and beef jerky. She followed us for four more days, about forty-two miles or so, even crossing a creek with us, and when we arrived at the visitors center, we thought we'd find someone who wanted to take her home. When we got there, though, the center was closed because of a burst pipe.

"So I thought I'd bring her to Alma and give her away. When I came back home after hiking the OHT, my wife said, 'You got a dog,' and that kind of sealed things. And then I took her to the vet and she had two kinds of worms and had tick fever. She was about a year and a half old. She responded well to treat-

Devil's Den Yellow Rock

ment, and she went from forty pounds to seventy. I call her my personal trainer. There are days when I don't want to go around Lake Alma, but she'll want to go. I named her Hiker."

Jim smiles when he talks about his newest four-legged hiking buddy. He adds Hiker to a growing list of what this pastime has brought him. The friends he's made are a joy. His health is good, and he's been able to hike at the Grand Canyon, and just this summer the 211-mile Jim Muir Trail that runs from the Yosemite Valley to Mt. Whitney, in California.

Asked what scares him while he's off the beaten path and it's not what you’d think. He's only seen two black bears while hiking in Arkansas, and both were in quick retreat. His main concerns in his home state are dehydration and illnesses from

Elephant Rocks

ticks and mosquitoes. That's his short and workable list.

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As for what hiking has done for his spiritual life, it's made him mindful. "You think clearer on a hike, away from the hustlebustle. The things you're thankful for are significant, and you have time to think about them. I'm so thankful, even if I'm tired. I think some of my gratefulness might stem back to my teenage years when I had to have corrective heart surgery. I'll be climbing a steep incline at Lake Alma Trail, and I'll just say to myself, I'm so thankful I'm getting to do this. I'm sixty-one, and I feel good. And when you take a picture, and it turns out good, you feel another level of thankfulness because you've gotten to capture that moment."

Yes, hiking has done a lot for Jim Warnock. One of the best things is that he gets to share what he loves with other

Smith Creek

people. When his book comes out, he can't wait to hear from readers who may find a new adventure because of the trails he's written about. He can't think of anything better, this man who embraces the untamed world and writes about it with the grace of a poet.

Best fall color hikes in our region of Arkansas: White Rock Mountain Rim Trail Redding Loop and Spy Rock Trail Mount Magazine For more visit Jim's blog, OzarkMountainHiker.com.

Redding Loop view Spy Rock

Once it's released, Jim's book will be available at Chapters on Main in downtown Van Buren.

He'll be signing books there on Thursday, November 10 from 5-8pm, and on Saturday, November 12 from 11am-3pm.

You can also pre-order Five-Star Trails: The Ozarks at Amazon.com or BarnesandNoble.com.

Pedestal Rocks Kings Bluff

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a s e o S n ... d l o C g n

Fig hti

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Naturally words Addi McNeel

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lifestyle

Temperatures are dropping, and the leaves are

try incorporating yogurt into your breakfast several times a

beginning to fade, sure signs that fall is here, and

week. If yogurt isn’t your thing, try drinking kefir or kombucha,

winter is well on its way. Along with the colder

which are healthy drinks loaded with probiotics and support

weather, however, comes cold and flu season.

your immune defense. Probiotics are also available as supplements in powder form, liquid, tablets or capsules. They all work

According to the Centers for Disease Control

well, but look for a high number of live bacteria on the label

and Prevention (CDC), adults average about

and try to pick one that requires refrigeration when looking for

two or three colds per year, and with children,

the best source of probiotics.

the average is even higher. When colds strike, their effects can make you miserable. But before

Tea leaves: Try substituting tea for coffee this cold and flu season

you head to the pharmacy, you might consider

to help protect against viruses. If the idea of going coffee-free

herbal remedies, which can address the discom-

frightens you more than catching a cold, try substituting half

fort colds bring, while helping your body heal.

of the amount of coffee you drink on a daily basis for tea. In a

Flu, on the other hand, is serious business, and

Harvard study, those who drank five cups of black tea per day

a flu shot is recommended. If you do get the flu,

for two weeks had ten times more interferon (virus and bacteria-

however, you'll need to see your doctor. Even

fighting proteins) present in their blood than those who drank

so, there are herbal supplements and teas that

a placebo. The amino acid that is responsible for the immunity

can support you while you recover.

boost is also present in green and decaf tea.

Medicine aside, prevention is your best chance

Lemon and cayenne water: A cup of water with lemon juice,

at stopping the common cold or the flu in

mixed with a dash of cayenne pepper has been cited to have

its tracks. Other than washing your hands,

many health benefits, including liver detox and weight loss.

covering your mouth when you sneeze and

Also, a glass of this drink each morning keeps the immune

avoiding people who are already sick, there are

system strong and prepared for the day ahead. Lemons contain

a few other things you can do to reduce the

a high amount of vitamin C, which has long been a natural

number of colds you'll get this season. If the

immunity builder, and cayenne pepper contains an ingredient

cold or flu does get to you despite your best

called capsaicin, which also strengthens the immune system.

efforts, here are tips to help you heal faster and

Both lemon and cayenne pepper contain antibacterial proper-

get back to being the healthiest, best version of

ties, which can help prevent you from getting sick. However,

yourself in no time! Keep your pantry stocked

if illness strikes, the combination of these two ingredients can

with these herbs and foods, and you’ll be better

help heal you from the inside and work to reduce any symp-

equipped to take flu season head-on.

toms that may occur with an infection. Because the lemon is highly acidic, try drinking this concoction through a straw to protect your tooth enamel.

Prevention Probiotics: According to a recent study in the

Turmeric: Turmeric is sometimes considered a “superfood”

British Journal of Nutrition, probiotics may be

because of its extremely high anti-inflammatory and antioxi-

effective in helping prevent catching a cold

dant properties. The active ingredient in turmeric, known as

or the flu. Probiotics keep good bacteria in

curcumin, is antifungal and antiviral, which can really help in

your gut, which helps your digestive system

preventing the flu virus from getting you sick this season. A

to remain healthy and functioning while

great way to consume this superfood is by mixing the turmeric

improving overall health. Probiotics are espe-

with black pepper before adding it to food. The black pepper

cially important to take while on antibiotics, as

will significantly increase the body’s absorption of the turmeric

they replace the good bacteria that are being

and its preventative properties.

killed off along with the bad. This flu season, DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

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lifestyle

Echinacea: Your great-grandmother probably swore by this herb to prevent colds or the flu – and for good reason. According to the medical journal Lancet Infectious Diseases, the University of Connecticut conducted a study that determined echinacea reduces the chances of catching a cold by fifty-eight percent. The age-old herb was also discovered to help heal the body if a cold does strike. According to the study, echinacea can reduce the duration of a cold by nearly one-and-a-half days.

One of the best ways to consume this plant is by drying the leaves, roots and stems to form a tea, or purchase the herbal tea from a local grocery or health food store.

Ginger: The use of this ancient root as a natural remedy for colds and flu dates back thousands of years in Asia. In addition to several healing properties such as anti-inflammatory and immunity building, ginger has many

which induces sleep, and melatonin, which regulates the body’s

benefits to curbing several symptoms associated with the flu.

internal sleep cycle. A study from Louisiana State University found

Ginger is a powerful, natural painkiller with strength compa-

that adults who drank tart cherry juice twice a day slept ninety

rable to over-the-counter ibuprofen, a natural expectorant,

more minutes a night for two weeks versus drinking a placebo.

which expands the lungs and loosens up mucus or phlegm, and aids in curbing nausea.

If the Flu Strikes

Detox bath: Running a bath mixed with baking soda and Epsom

While taking care of your health, body and immune system

salt can help pull toxins out of your body, and forces you to

will significantly reduce the number of colds you catch during

sweat out a lot of them as well. It can also be a great way to

cold and flu season, sometimes colds or the flu strike despite

relax and ease body aches associated with the flu. In addition

your best efforts. If you get the flu, see your doctor, since flu

to drawing out toxins, Epsom salt can ease stress and improve

can cause serious problems. Take your doctor's advice and any

sleep, reduce inflammation, improve absorption of nutrients

treatment recommended, and continue to work on healing

and help prevent or ease migraine headaches. The baking soda

and nourishing your body while naturally alleviating the symp-

helps to neutralize chemicals in the tap water and increase

toms associated with the virus. This advice should make you

mineral absorption so that your body can take in the Epsom

breathe a little easier this fall and winter. If you have home

salt. The detox bath will cause you to sweat a lot, so make sure

remedies or other natural treatments you swear by, let us

you are drinking water to stay hydrated, as a dehydrated body

know. Just email editors@dosouthmagazine.com, or message

is the last thing you need while sick.

us on Facebook at Do South® Magazine.

Cherries: Cherries can aid in helping you fall asleep when tossing and turning all night long due to illness is not necessarily on your to-do list. Tart cherry juice contains tryptophan,

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Girlfriends

words Jessica Sowards images Mikela Sowards

Jessica and Jessica

I

I was never the kind of girl to have a lot of girlfriends. As a child,

In high school, I was overwhelmed by the stereotypical mean girl

I was a tomboy. While the girls in my class played with dolls and

drama and found sanctuary in friendship with guys. I loved the

painted their nails, I could be found in cut-off jean shorts and

simplicity of hanging out with them. I adored the quiet, and would

cowboy boots, catching frogs in the creek and playing baseball

have chosen an evening of watching movies and eating Hot Pockets

with the boys. Middle school brought me a few friends that were

with my best guy friend over dinner in heels with all the girls any day.

girls, but as I grew out of frog-catching, I began volunteering at the animal shelter and much preferred the company of dogs to

College brought a new dynamic. Sororities began recruiting

makeup and clothes shopping.

during my first semester, and I made every excuse to stay in the

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dorm reading books about farms and avoiding

It was one of those realizations for which there isn’t an imme-

the social awkwardness that would come if I

diate remedy. I just knew, at that moment, I was going to have

tried to have a conversation with a bunch of

to do things differently. I knew I was going to have to fight for

women. The problem appeared to be solved

connection instead of taking pride in independence. And I felt

for me when I got married young, settling in to

certain that if God wanted me to have close relationships with

do life with a husband seemed to be a reason-

women, he would send the women and I would just have to

able solution. He could be my friend, and all of

be intentional to love them and be the kind of friend He was

that girlfriend nonsense could be left behind

showing me to be.

me. But then I had babies, and I was catapulted into the world of playgroups and mom

About a year or so has passed since this revelation. I couldn’t

wars, immersed into forums where women

know then how intentional I would have to be. It’s hard to recog-

attacked each other over breastfeeding and

nize something in yourself that needs to be changed and then

car seat choices.

follow through with waging war against your habits and nature.

Don’t get me wrong; there were a few friends that I maintained a relationship with through all of this, but throughout my adult life, my very best friends were my cousin and my sister, two people I couldn’t really keep at a distance.

I had women friends, but there remained a hard and unaddressed place in my heart that

...on that day, it hit me differently. And I realized God designed women to need each other.

I kept walled up. There was a part of me that kept women at arm’s length. I just felt like I was made that way.

I realized the extent of the work God had been doing in me Through my twenties, my friendships were all

when my good friend Sandra approached me at church the

based around kids, or work, or ministry. They

other day and told me she was ready to talk about her daugh-

were based on what I did, not how I felt. I made

ter’s birth and NICU journey. Sandra gave birth in January, and

all the excuses. I’m introverted. I’m not girly. I

I was standing by her side when her daughter was born with

don’t like drama. And I believed them all. By the

no signs of life. As the minutes passed and time seemed to

time I closed in on my thirtieth birthday, I had

stand still, I was there with her and her husband Matt and their

accepted the fact that I just didn’t have a lot of

family. I was there because Sandra and I had been intentional

girlfriends, and I wore it like a badge of honor.

in our friendship, and we had the kind of relationship that takes

I would even dare to say that I took pride in the

you into a person’s birth room. And I was invested enough, that

fact that I was the kind of woman that didn’t do

when baby Abigail did not breathe minute after minute after

deep relationships with other women well.

minute, my whole heart was in the prayers I prayed alongside Sandra and her family. We prayed until Abigail came back, after

I was reading in the book of Matthew when God confronted me

eighteen minutes of being lifeless and unresponsive. And while

about that badge and made me question why I was wearing it.

she is now a completely healthy baby, the months following her

It was in the story of Mary hearing from the angel Gabriel that

birth included a lot more prayers and a lot of trial and testing.

she was carrying the Messiah that I saw, as bold as the black and white of the pages, that the first place Mary went with her news

It was such a testimony to the goodness of God that sweet

was to her cousin Elizabeth. Of course, I knew the story; I was

Abigail lived, it never even occurred to me to marvel at the

raised in church. But on that day, it hit me differently. And I real-

friendship that shone through the situation. Then Sandra told

ized God designed women to need each other.

me she was ready to talk and all of a sudden, I thought back DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

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to the months of praying and crying and standing by her side, and I realized, “Wow, this is what friendship looks like.”

Of course, it’s not all so heavy

and

serious.

It’s

been a journey to learn to do everyday life with girlfriends as well. And it’s the everyday stuff that the heavy stuff can be built on. While I still am not the type to gush over wedding planning and I’m certainly not the person to call for advice about how you should fix your hair, I do have a handful of girlfriends that I talk to on a regular basis. My cousin Amy and my friend Jessica and I have a standing date

Jessica, Abigail, Sandra

to meet up and just spend time together. We talk about plans, and God and ideas, and our farms. I have friends

ok. I am not girly, and that’s ok. I do not want drama in my life,

that I have regular coffee dates with, friends that I can call for

and that is certainly ok. But it’s also saying, I need people who

advice and prayer, and mom-friends that I can hang out with

understand where I am. I need people to hold my hand in life’s

without any competition or criticism. It’s nice. Life feels more

most trying moments. I need women to be my friends, and I

rounded, and I’m not kidding when I tell you I simply was not

haven’t been intentional, and that’s not ok.

capable of that kind of relationship before.

Then you become intentional. You become a friend. And one Throughout the year-long process of tearing down my care-

day it hits you that your life has become richer, and the depth

fully built walls, I’ve been surprised to find there are so many

of your relationships has become richer.

women out there with the same mindset I had. So many ladies have sworn off of meaningful, connected friendships with

Just be intentional, because I promise, the good girlfriends are

other women because of the way our culture sets women up

worth it. And God has some set aside just for you.

against each other. And so many women are lonely, missing out on the kind of support God truly designed for us to be for one another.

Follow Jessica on her blog @thehodgepodgedarling.blogspot.com

Of course, there’s no quick remedy. But I think the key is just coming to the realization. It’s saying, I’m introverted, and that’s

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The Real NCIS Words John Post, Director of Public Information, UAFS image Rachel Putman, Marketing Communications Photographer, UAFS

NCIS Agent Dustin Hubert and Justin Harris

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University of Arkansas – Fort Smith student Justin Harris may

Law enforcement, on the other hand, was an opportunity for

have never earned an internship with the Naval Criminal Inves-

Justin to make a positive impact and help dispel the negative

tigative Service (NCIS) had curiosity not struck him one night in

perceptions surrounding police officers. Growing up in Elkins,

2012 while watching the hit show based on the law enforce-

he saw police officers as role models, and he wanted to be a

ment agency.

positive influence in the same way for future generations.

“I wondered if there was an actual NCIS,” he said. “And I

While Harris believes many people have jaded views of police

looked it up and saw their website and all the careers that were

officers, he saw a love officers showed for their community that

possible. You’re still a civilian, but you get to experience aspects

was “seldom found elsewhere.”

of the military as well.”

“Being in law enforcement would give me the opportunity That curiosity led to an opportunity for Harris to do more with

to serve my community and impact the lives of people each

his education by interning over the summer at the agency’s base

day,” he said.

in Camp Lejeune in North Carolina, where nearly forty agents worked. It was an experience that allowed Justin to apply what

When he saw that the path to working with NCIS required

he'd learned in the university’s criminal justice program to a

a bachelor’s degree, he made plans to go back to school.

wide swath of duties within the agency.

His sister had recently graduated from UAFS and highly recommended it.

Justin wasn’t sure what to expect when he started the internship, but he found the agency was drastically different from what is depicted on television. “The show has a ‘Hollywood’ spin on it,” he said. “I encountered very few agents who have ever needed to use their firearm in the line of duty. The show primarily focuses on cases of homicide and terrorism, but that is a very small percentage of what NCIS deals with day to day.”

Still, Justin said the agency was “far from boring.” He worked within many different units in the NCIS, including special operations, sexual crimes and counterintelligence. One day, he would accompany an agent searching the base for a stolen firearm.

The next, he would watch an interrogation of a sexual assault

NCIS would be a very fitting place for me, but it’s a very competitive agency. It’s definitely a career I am pursuing, and I’m excited to keep building my experience and knowledge base at UAFS.

suspect. “Each day was different. I would be sitting in the office and agents would come up and ask for my help with whatever

When he got into the program, he found a diverse group of

they were working on.”

professors, many of whom possessed real-world experience in law enforcement and were able to guide him on his career

The opportunity was also a catalyst for Justin to begin his career

path. “All of them come specialized in different facets. I’m

in law enforcement. It was more than just curiosity that drove

able to take valuable information from pretty much every

his decision to research NCIS that night. After dropping out

class I’ve had here. Their knowledge base is so broad, and

of college in 2010, he began working as an HVAC technician,

they’re so personable. It doesn’t matter what professor

initially in Fayetteville, Arkansas, and then in Kansas.

you go up to, they’re going to have sound information and reasoning behind the advice they give you on how to pursue

While there was opportunity for advancement in the field,

a certain career.”

he didn’t feel passionate about his work. “Before I left, I got offered a higher paying position than I ever would have in law

For Justin, the career he wanted to pursue stayed the same: a

enforcement,” he said. “But I would’ve been miserable.”

job with NCIS or another federal law enforcement agency. The

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criminal justice professors recommend students work intern-

From here, Justin plans to work for a police department in

ships to have hands-on experience to apply to their classroom

northwest Arkansas for several years to gain the experience

learnings, so he researched internships and applied.

necessary to earn a job with a federal law enforcement agency.

After beginning his internship, he was surprised at the edge

“NCIS would be a very fitting place for me, but it’s a very

he had over other interns. When they arrived at the house of

competitive agency. It’s definitely a career I am pursuing, and

a soldier who tragically committed suicide, Justin immediately

I’m excited to keep building my experience and knowledge

knew what to do to process the scene. “We studied crime

base at UAFS.”

scene documentation in class, so I could see what needed to be done and where I could assist. I’ve realized that some other schools don’t offer the same hands-on learning as UAFS has, and it’s really played an important role in my internship.”

For more information on the UAFS Criminal Justice Program, visit www.uafs.edu or call 479.788.7433.

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taste

recipe and image James Steufix

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taste

Ingredients ° 4 Jack Be Little Pumpkins

° ½ cup onion, diced small

° 1 clove garlic, minced

(or similar sized pumpkins of your choosing)

° 6 oz. fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined

° ½ cup chicken stock

° ¾ cup farro, cooked

° ¼ cup white wine, dry

° ¾ cup white rice, cooked

° 1 sprig thyme, washed,

° ¼ pound andouille sausage,

° ½ cup dried cranberries

casings removed, diced small

de-stemmed, minced

Method

Cut the top quarter off the pumpkins. Scoop seeds and the loose insides out. Clean underside of pumpkin lid. Lightly season insides and lids with salt and pepper, and place in 350˚F oven for 20 minutes.

When cool enough to handle, scoop about half of the meat out, being careful not to break through the outside. Chop up scraped pumpkin and reserve for filling.

Sauté sausage in small amount of olive oil until slightly crispy. Add garlic and cook 3 minutes until lightly golden. Add onion and cook until translucent. Deglaze with wine, stirring bottom of pan, and cook until dry. Add farro, rice, cranberries, thyme, reserved pumpkin and stock and stir everything together well. Cook for 7-8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cut shrimp into small-sized bites. Fold into sausage mixture. Gently fill pumpkins with mixture until slightly overflowing. Return stuffed pumpkins to oven for 15-20 minutes, or until shrimp are cooked through.

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50

taste

Wicked

Pumpkin

Apple Cider recipe inspired by cookingandbeer.com image James Stefiuk

Ingredients -

(makes 4) 9 oz. bourbon 9 oz. apple cider 3 oz. lemon juice 12 oz. pumpkin ale Cranberries & cinnamon sticks (garnish)

Method Mix bourbon, apple cider and lemon juice in a shaker.

Pour mixture over ice. Top off each glass with pumpkin ale. Garnish with cinnamon stick and cranberries. Enjoy!

Drink responsibly.

Never drink and drive.

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lifestyle

The Importance of the Front Porch words Marla Cantrell images courtesy Conference on the Front Porch

M

Most of us have memories of lingering on a front porch. Often, we were doing nothing more than sitting on a wide swing, making it move back and forth by pushing our toes against the wooden floor. But in those moments, a great deal was going on. We were letting our minds fill with creative thoughts, connecting with the place we called home, and carrying on a deep tradition of the American South.

Speakers and Panelists

The front porch is such an important part of who we are that

R. Scott Cook: Author of The Cultural Significance of the

there is now a two-day meeting celebrating it. The Confer-

Front Porch

ence on the Front Porch will be held in Taylor, Mississippi, just minutes from Oxford, on October 21-22. Speakers will

Michael Dolan: Editor of American History magazine and

talk about the front porch from an architectural and social

author of The American Front Porch: An Informal History of an

perspective, discuss its origin, how the front porch became

Informal Place

popular and then declined in popularity, and how it's coming back in full force. There will even be explanations of how

Carter Wilkie: Historian and author of The Search for Community

porches influence communities, play roles in presidential poli-

in the Age of Urban Sprawl

tics, and the music that evolves there.

Leah Kemp: Interim Director of The Carl Small Town Center Cost of admission includes six meals, lectures and panels, one

Group at The Mississippi State School of Architecture

evening porch concert and an evening porch play. If you love front porches, this is the conference for you.

Charles Reagan Wilson: Former head of The Center for The Study of Southern Culture and now Professor Emeritus Jay Watson: Howry Professor of Faulkner Studies at Ole Miss

For cost and additional information, visit theconferenceonthefrontporch.com.

Claude Stephens (aka Crow Hollister): Founder of The Professional Porch Sitters Union and a frequent commentator on NPR V. John Tee: Architect and frequent commentator on the stylistic evolution of the porch in the American South DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

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54

travel

Arktober

Celebrating October in Arkansas words Marla Cantrell images courtesy venues and Arkansas Dept. of Parks & Tourism

NIGHT FALLS EARLIER AT THIS TIME OF THE YEAR AND TEMPERATURES ARE STEADILY DROPPING. OUTSIDE, THE LEAVES ARE TURNING SHADES OF ORANGE, RED AND YELLOW. IN ARKANSAS, OCTOBER IS THE PERFECT MONTH FOR FALL FESTIVALS. WE'VE GATHERED A GOOD SAMPLING OF WHAT OUR GREAT STATE HAS TO OFFER. TAKE A LOOK, MAKE YOUR PLANS, AND ENJOY A DAY IN THE BEAUTY OF THIS PLACE WE CALL HOME.

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travel

TURKEY TRACK BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL

FALL FESTIVAL ARTS AND CRAFTS FAIR

October 5th-8th

October 7th-9th

Waldron

Van Buren

See website for pricing | Find them on Facebook

Free to attend | oldtownvanburen.com

The Turkey Track Bluegrass Festival takes place on eighty acres

A kids' carnival, a karaoke contest, lots of live music with head-

near Waldron. It's the thirty-ninth year for the festival, and this

liner Camille Rae performing, and helicopter rides. All this plus,

year features a number of talented performers. Enjoy the music

art, antiques, collectibles, plenty of food, and arts and crafts.

and food. You can even camp at Turkey Track.

Van Buren's Fall Festival takes place on Main Street, and begins October 7th at 7pm, continues October 8th from 9am until 6pm, and runs through October 9th from 9am until 5pm.

KING BISCUIT BLUES FESTIVAL October 5th-8th

HOMEGROWN FESTIVAL

Helena-West Helena

October 8th

See website for pricing | kingbiscuitfestival.com

Siloam Springs Free to attend | mainstreetsiloam.org

The King Biscuit Blues Festival is one of the nation’s foremost showcases of blues music. Tens of thousands of music lovers come to

The Homegrown Festival runs from 10am until 5pm in downtown

downtown Helena for this one-of-a-kind event. This year's lineup

Siloam Springs and has live music, food trucks and great shopping.

features dozens of blues performers on several stages, including

You'll find original, one-of-a-kind, and limited-run items including

Sonny Landreth with special guest Roy Rogers, John Mayall, and

illustration, printmaking, music, jewelry and accessories, handmade

Charlie Musselwhite.

goods, salvaged and repurposed goods, and hand-picked vintage.

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taste travel

Gps location: 8464 W. McNelly Rd. Bentonville. Hours, 8am until 5pm, except Sunday, which is 9am until 4pm.

ORIGINAL OZARK FOLK FESTIVAL October 13th-15th Eureka Springs Many free events, see website for details | ozarkfolkfestival.com

BELLA VISTA ARTS AND CRAFTS FESTIVAL October 13th-15th

The Original Ozark Folk Festival in Eureka Springs is America’s

Bella Vista

longest continuously running folk festival. Attend the Barefoot

Free to attend | bellavistafestival.org

Ball, listen to free music in Basin Park, watch the Folk Festival This juried festival in Bella Vista has been growing since it began

Parade, and marvel at the folk dancing.

in 1969. Gorgeous art, wonderful crafts, great food, and tons of fun. Nearly 300 artisans will be displaying their work. The festival is located just off Arkansas Highway 279, south of the intersection of Arkansas Highway 340, and is open from 8am until 5pm.

SPANKER CREEK FARM ARTS AND CRAFTS FESTIVAL

WAR EAGLE FAIR

October 12th-16th

October 13th-16th

Bentonville

Rogers

Free to attend | spankercreekfarm.com

Free to attend | wareaglefair.com

Spanker Creek Farm Arts, Crafts and More Festival is an extraordinary

The War Eagle Fair is a staple of fall in Arkansas. Professional

outdoor market for the whole family. Exhibitors will have a variety of

craftspeople offer original handmade work ranging from country

products that consist of handmade or unique arts, crafts, and other

decorative items to antique broken china jewelry. You can also

items as well as great fair foods.

explore the old mill and eat at the Bean Palace restaurant.

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travel taste

OKTOBERFEST October 22nd Downtown Fort Smith

HILLBERRY: THE HARVEST MOON FESTIVAL

See website for details | downtownfs.com

October 13th-16th Eureka Springs

Starts early, ends late! This first-ever Downtown Oktoberfest

See website for pricing | hillberryfestival.com

has something for everyone in the family. The fun starts at the Farmer's Market with pony rides beginning at 9am, a pumpkin

Hillberry is a four-day music and arts festival with an emphasis

carving contest at 10am, live music, a car show, an art walk, and

on bluegrass and roots music with a little bit of funk thrown in.

a haunted house. After dark, area bar and entertainment venues

Attendees can camp (included in the ticket price), and there is also

will offer commemorative cups, along with a variety of choices

a range of workshops for adults and children ranging from yoga to

for live music.

hula hooping and tie dying. Kids twelve and under are free.

OZARK REGIONAL ARTS AND CRAFTS FAIRS October 14th-16th

BULL SHOALS FALL FESTIVAL

Fayetteville, Springdale, Rogers

October 22nd

Free Admission | nwacraftfairs.com

Bull Shoals Call for details | 870.445.3629

The largest indoor craft fair in the state is taking place October 14th16th in three locations: Northwest Arkansas Convention Center in

Nature programs, great trout fishing, lake and river cruises, a

Springdale, John Q. Hammons Center in Rogers, and Washington

campsite decorating contest, games, and arts and crafts! Bring

County Fairgrounds in Fayetteville. Fairgrounds ONLY open October

your lawn chair to the Trout Dock Amphitheater for a bonfire and

14th-16th; fairs at NW Arkansas Convention Center and John Q.

live music. Hear gospel, bluegrass, folk, and country music.

Hammons Convention Center are open October 14th-15th.

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58

travel

CHOCTOBERFEST October 22nd

BEAN FEST AND OUTHOUSE RACES

Fayetteville

October 28th-29th

See website for pricing | jacksongraves.org

Mountain View

Live music, handcrafted chocolate, craft beers, sauerkraut, and

Free to attend | yourplaceinthemountains.com

brats—all locally sourced. The fun begins at 3pm and runs until 8pm. Proceeds benefit the Jackson Graves Foundation, which

Crafts and music on Friday. On Saturday, forty antique cast iron

supports area families with babies in intensive care units.

pots will hold 2,000 pounds of pinto beans. At noon, beans and cornbread are served for free. The parade of outhouses (that are built on wheels) starts at 1pm, followed by the outhouse races.

WIEDERKEHR VILLAGE WEINFEST

CORNBREAD FESTIVAL

October 22nd

October 29th

Wiederkehr Village

Little Rock

Free admission | wiederkehrwines.com

See website for pricing | arkansascornbreadfestival.com

Celebrate this year's harvest with wine, food, and music. Dance

Live music, food trucks, Arkansas art, crafts, jewelry and locally-

the Polka, stomp some grapes, enter the Stein Stemmen or Baum

produced food and gifts are all available at the Cornbread Festival

Stossen, tour the cellar and vineyard, enter your pet in the Annual

in Little Rock. Everyone attending will get to taste the cornbread

Dog Show, enjoy local arts & crafts vendors. Festival runs from

and side dishes, and vote for the best in two categories: amateur

8am until 10pm.

and professional. And did we mention‌ cornbread? Yum! DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

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60

southern fiction

The State Bird of Arkansas FICTION Marla Cantrell

V

Violet can't do math. She gets by okay, but salespeople and con

"My poodle could do a better job than you," Violet's boss says,

artists could rob her blind, and she'd never know. The year she was

and Violet tells him what he can do with his dog.

supposed to learn long division and memorize her times tables, the school had decided to switch things up. The kids changed

The next day Violet's due back at three but she decides not to go

classes three times a day, something they'd never done before,

to work at all. Violet looks in her purse. She has a twenty-dollar

and each teacher covered two subjects, so Violet, along with every

bill, a credit card with a limit of five hundred dollars that she's

other third-grader, was taught math by their Arkansas History

never used, and a full tank of gas. She considers calling her mom,

teacher who had never taught anything else. Today, she can tell

to ask her advice, but her mom lives in Sedona now and wears a

you that the state bird is the mockingbird, adopted in 1929 and

lot of turquoise, and the last time Violet talked to her, she asked

that Thomas Jefferson had a pet mockingbird he named "Dick,"

Violet to call her by her first name and then told Violet a wildly

but she can't tell you the product of seven times nine.

inappropriate story about a man she was seeing.

Which is a problem for Violet, who's been asked, on this fourth

She grabs her purse and locks the door behind her. Violet slides

day of October, to be in charge of the cash drawer at the fruit

behind the steering wheel of her old Escape and heads north. She

market where she usually works sorting produce. At the end of

notices the leaves on her neighbor's sugar maple have already

the day, after checking out a steady influx of customers, she's

turned the color of cherries, and she feels the old excitement fall

twelve dollars and fourteen cents short, and she's in tears.

brings. On the other side of the Bobby Hopper Tunnel, the trees are starting to really show off. Violet imagines Heaven sometimes,

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southern fiction

and when she does, it's always autumn. If angels wore halos of

her. She'd tried to explain the feeling to her then-husband but

crimson maple leaves, she'd feel right at home.

he didn't get it. When he left, he said, "You're like one of those poems that doesn't rhyme. I've pretended to understand you all

In Fayetteville, she gets off the interstate. She drives by the Univer-

this time, but I never ever did."

sity of Arkansas. Violet had a boyfriend once named Todd who went there, and she'd come see him almost every weekend. If

Violet pulls her leather jacket from the backseat and slips it on.

Todd ever loved her, he hadn't said so. She hadn't loved him

The coat used to be her father's, and the leather is cracked at

either, but that seemed beside the point.

the elbows. When he died, she took the jacket that smelled like soap and motor oil and hay and slept with it for a full month. She

With the windows down, Violet's hair is blowing. She likes her

took his belt with the three holes that were stretched wider than

hair. It's still the blonde of childhood. All her other blonde friends

the others, three signs of her dad's growing waist over the years.

have gone brunette over the years, their hair and their moods

She took his Timex with its linked metal band you could twist like

darkening. Violet likes her legs and her cheekbones. She likes her

a pretzel. When she wore them all, it was like he was still there.

mood, mostly. Everything else she'd change if she could.

There is a patch of grass near Whole Foods, and Violet takes the In Whole Foods, Violet buys cheese from the Netherlands with her

old blanket from the back of her car and heads that way. People

credit card. She buys crackers whose name she can't pronounce.

watch her–she can feel it–but she doesn't care. She spreads the

She eats an entire pizza while sitting on a bar stool with the heels

plaid blanket out and lies down, as inconspicuous as she can be

of her cowboy boots hooked across the rung.

on this busy thoroughfare, and puts her hands behind her head.

A little girl in purple rain boots smiles at her. A man with a hoop

At thirty, she should not have an ex-husband and a dead daddy.

earring and a tattoo of a buffalo on his forearm looks her up and

She sighs, crosses her legs at the ankle, touches her ring finger

down and winks and then blushes, a contradiction from head to

that still has an indention where her wedding band used to be.

toe. An older woman tells her she has pizza sauce on her chin, and Traffic hums along. Sometimes a horn blares, but mostly the sound

Violet blushes too.

is brakes, and tires on pavement and a radio turned up too loud.

When she gets to her car, the sun is sinking. Violet has always

Above, night is crawling out of its bed. A star appears and then

loved this time of day. She leans against the Escape and

another. The moon, when it shows its face, is half of its whole self,

watches the sky. When she was a girl, her family lived on a farm

and that seems right to Violet.

that was loud with animals. The cows lowed. Horses whinnied.

Roosters crowed. She loved the hens the best. They squawked

She hears footsteps that cause her to sit up. Above her, the man

and complained and bragged all day long. She named one

with the buffalo tattoo stands. "Hey," he says, and he rubs his

Velta. That old bird lived for ten years.

arms against the cold. "I saw you come this way, and I just wanted to make sure you're OK."

At this time of the day, at this time of the year, Violet would lay hidden in the fallow field, the tall grass of autumn as gold as the

Violet pulls the cuffs of her jacket over her fingers. "Yeah," she

straw Rumpelstiltskin had spun in his fairytale. At times, she could

says, "just, you know, taking in the night."

hear her parents, their voices like lamplight as they walked past her to the barn holding hands, never seeing her, talking about

"Mind if I sit?" the man says, and Violet scoots over, even though

the neighbors or the cost of feed. When she learned the word

she's not certain she should. He holds out his hand and says,

"clandestine" she knew that's how she felt on those perfect days.

"August Patton," and Violet takes it and says, "Violet Franklin."

What she loved, even more, was the way the wind sang across the

"It's a good night," August says, and then he points. "Stars."

top of the grass, how it moved the grass in waves but didn't touch

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southern fiction

"Moon," Violet says, and points even higher.

how I felt," she says, and she feels tears burn her eyes. "You think it's possible to feel that way again?"

"I saw three shooting stars last night," August says. "Within fifteen minutes."

August doesn't speak for a few moments. The traffic is dying down, and even in this city, there are cicadas singing. Bugs flock

August has blue eyes and black hair that's going gray at the

to the lights of the parking lot and the sound of them is like a choir

temples. When he smiles, he looks too young for gray hair.

humming. "I do," August finally says, and Violet feels something akin to electricity rocket through her.

"I quit my job today," Violet says.

She wants to reach out and touch August but instead she says, "What did you do?"

"Arkansas' state tree is a pine," and August says, "You don't say."

"Stocked produce at a fruit stand. Tried to make change.

"The state mineral is quartz crystal, and the state bird is a mock-

Couldn't do it."

ingbird. A mockingbird can sound like anything it wants. A barking dog, a wet thumb squeaking across a window, even a frog," she

"I work at a call center. I talk to people about their credit scores."

says and this time, she reaches for August's hand.

"Does it make you happy?"

August's fingers intertwine with Violet's. "You're smart as a whip," he says.

"Not one bit," August says and picks a blade of grass that's halfway between green and brown and puts it between his teeth.

"My ex-husband thought I was a nut."

Violet lies back and looks again at the sky. "I thought I'd have life

"He sounds like a jerk. I could wreck his credit score if you

figured out by now."

wanted me to."

"I don't think it works like that."

Violet laughs. "That's the nicest thing anyone's said to me in a long time."

"Then how does it work?"

August pulls his work ID from his shirt pocket. "I really could," he August shakes his head. "Like a jigsaw puzzle. You don't know

says. "I'd get fired if anyone found out, but what the heck."

how it turns out until the very end."

The clouds shift again and new stars appear. A plane blinks across "Doesn't that drive you crazy?"

the sky. On the other side of College Avenue, a car lot's sign announces the best deals of the year. Violet wonders how good the

"No," August says, "I don't think I'd like to see too far ahead."

deals could be. Maybe the best deal of the year is right beside her.

A cloud crosses the moon. "I used to lie in the tall grass when I

August lets go of her hand and slips his arm underneath her

was a kid," Violet says. "I'd flatten out a space just big enough

shoulder. His body this close feels brand new and older than the

for me, and when I lay against the ground it would still be

earth beneath her. Nothing has ever felt this way before, and she

warm, and the wind would move the grass like a hula skirt, but

starts to say so. But instead she puts her hand on August's chest

never touch me."

just to feel his heart beat, and that seems like more than enough on a night like this.

August lies down. "I bet you felt as safe as if you were in a cradle," he says, and Violet turns on her side to face him. "That's exactly

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WOMEN'S GUIDE

THE WOMEN'S GUIDE

AN ESSENTIAL GUIDE FOR EVERY WOMAN As a woman, you often put the needs of others before your own. You may be the last one to bed and the first one up in the morning. And all those hours in between, you're busy, making life for those around you the best it can be.

We'd like you to relax for a few minutes. Browse through Do South's Women's Guide to find great local businesses and services that can make your life better.

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Take a little time for yourself and enjoy! We hope you find some surprises and learn more about these local businesses that are here to serve you.

WOMEN'S GUIDE

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WOMEN'S GUIDE

Basinger Aesthetics - Dr. Norma Basinger basingeraesthetics.com 479.484.7100

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Like all parts of the body, the vagina changes with age, but

Center for Hearing centerforhearing.net 479.785.3277

additional decline may be caused by other major events. Child-

Untreated hearing loss can impact our lives in many different

birth stretches the vaginal canal and surrounding tissue. For

ways. Dr. Kelley Linton and Dr. Lori Boyd understand the

many women, the tissue doesn’t return to the same pre-birth

struggles of keeping up with busy families as well as helping

state. This stretching damages the vaginal walls, perineum,

those with hearing loss enjoy their lives through better

and surrounding tissue. Decreased estrogen production caused

hearing. The newest hearing aid technology helps bring focus

by menopause, hysterectomy, chemotherapy, or activities like

to otherwise complex listening situations and ultimately helps

breastfeeding, leads to thinning, drying and inflammation of

us feel less fatigued. If you’re not hearing as well as you used

the vaginal walls. For many women, these events decrease

to, or if you just want to establish a baseline for your hearing,

healthy vaginal function. Call today and discover how you can

call for an appointment. Do it for your health, your happiness,

alleviate these symptoms with diVa!

and your relationships.

WOMEN'S GUIDE

Donaubauer Group of Raymond James & Associates thedonaubauergroup.com 479.494.3892

D&D Floor Covering ddwindowcovering.com 479.474.0533 In our Hunter Douglas showroom at D&D, you can see up close and in person the full line of beautiful, new window

Retirement is a stage we can’t fully understand until we’re in

covering options. Visit with one of our design experts to

it, but it’s also a stage we should do our best to prepare for. It

find the right features and look for your home, and get a

has a lot of moving parts, but with proper planning, it can be

free estimate! The most exciting trend in window fashions is

a time of freedom and new beginnings. Key aspects of retire-

PowerView Motorization! Hunter Douglas leads the industry

ment planning can include establishing goals, understanding

with a smart, wireless system for controlling your blinds with

income and expenses, creating a budget, and planning for

a smartphone, tablet or remote. We've got the solution to

longevity. Retirement isn’t static–it changes as you move

your window covering dilemmas!

through it–so your planning should reflect that.

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Retirement is an exciting time, but also poses some challenges.

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WOMEN'S GUIDE

WOMEN'S GUIDE

Cooper Clinic Bariatric and General Surgery - Darryl Eckes, M.D. cooperweightlosssurgery.com 479.274.3215 If you are considering weight loss surgery, the most important step is getting accurate information. Ultimately, your be life-changing, so when you ask a question, make sure you understand the answer. Do not hesitate to ask for a clearer explanation given in simple language. However, even before you schedule a physician consultation, I would urge you to attend one of our seminars to learn about the benefits and risks of each type of surgical procedure. Our next educational event is November 15.

Headaches can be caused by the way your teeth come together - it’s called your occlusion. Even teeth that are straight might be occluding in the wrong position causing strain in the muscles of your head and neck. It’s the leading cause of headaches in adults. By finding a new position for your teeth to occlude where your muscles are relaxed, we can eliminate the strain and reduce your headaches. Your jaws can be stabilized by placing a clear aligner, orthodontics, or even crowns and veneers. Call for a free TMJ consult!

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surgeon will be your best resource. Bariatric surgery can truly

Friddle Dentistry thefriddlesmile.com 479.452.8800

WOMEN'S GUIDE

Health screenings are vital to ensuring good health at any age. Below are recommendations that can help you stay on track, no matter your age. Everyone’s health is different, so be sure to talk with your doctor about your personal needs.

AGES 20-29 Clinical breast exam every one to three years to check for breast cancer, starting at age 21 Liquid-based Pap test every three years to check for cervical cancer

AGES 30-39 Clinical breast exam every one to three years to check for breast cancer Liquid-based Pap test and HPV test every five years to check for cervical cancer and HPV

AGES 40-49 Mammogram and clinical breast exam every year to check for breast cancer Liquid-based Pap test and HPV test every five years to check for cervical cancer and HPV Cholesterol regularly if at risk, every three to five years if low risk Diabetes starting at age 45, then every three years

AGES 50-64

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Mammogram and clinical breast exam every year to check for breast cancer Liquid-based Pap test and HPV test every five years to check for cervical cancer and HPV (starting at age 65, speak with your doctor about whether you should continue screening) Cholesterol regularly if at risk, every three to five years if low risk Diabetes every two years Colonoscopy every ten years or virtual colonoscopy every five years to check for colorectal cancer

AGES 65+ Cholesterol regularly if at risk, every three years or ask doctor Diabetes every three years Colonoscopy every ten years or virtual colonoscopy every five years to check for colorectal cancer (if you’re age 76 to 85, your doctor can help you decide if you should continue screening)

Sources: MD Anderson and mpcp.com

WOMEN'S GUIDE

Fort Smith Radiation Oncology, Cancer Screening Clinic - Dr. Kris Gast fsro.net 479. 648.1800

Fort Smith Medical Center fortsmithmedicalcenter.com 479.434.3131

Many women are too busy to think about scheduling time

Our #1 product for keeping your summer glow through the

for a cancer screening visit and are unsure of what to expect

colder months is the Skin Pen and the physician-grade chemical

during a cancer screening. First, a complete history is taken

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followed by a physical exam performed by Dr. Gast. This exam

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ucts vary in price and do everything from reducing wrinkles,

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dark spots, improving skin texture, and even skin tones. Hydra-

results at a follow-up visit. A summary of your screening will

tion is key, so be sure to make moisturizing a priority!

also be sent to your primary care physician.

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WOMEN'S GUIDE

WOMEN'S GUIDE

Gallivanting Ladies Apparel gallivantingladiesapparel.com 479.646.7555

John Brown University – Fort Smith Center 479.646.0082 jbu.edu/fortsmith

Ankle pants with boots and flannel tops are trending this fall John Brown University provides Christ-centered education

about making you feel good and look your best. Feeling like

that prepares people to honor God and serve others by devel-

your clothes aren’t fitting right, or feel like you’re caught in a

oping their intellectual, spiritual and professional lives. JBU

rut with your current style? Come see us! We are locally owned

offers bachelor’s degree completion programs in business,

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and both are must-haves! Gallivanting Ladies Apparel is all

WOMEN'S GUIDE

FUR-REAL HEALTH BENEFITS Did you know that pets can offer us amazing health benefits? Yes, that’s right, health benefits! More than fetching the remote, or barking to alert company, our pets are helping us in more ways than one.

Here's how: Release chemicals in your brain that are linked to happiness by spending just 30 minutes with a dog.

Lower the level of cortisol in your blood, a hormone linked to stress, just by spending 5 minutes with a dog.

Decrease loneliness and release oxytocin, a hormone associated with love, trust and empathy, by snuggling with your pet.

Lower your heart rate and decrease blood pressure by watching fish swim in an aquarium or by petting a cat.

Cat owners are less likely to die from heart disease.

Dog owners are 9 times more likely to survive a year after a heart attack.

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Owning and caring for pets help children develop responsibility, empathy and a love for living creatures.

WOMEN'S GUIDE

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WOMEN'S GUIDE

John Mays Jewelers jonmaysjewelers.com 479.452.2150 We live in an ever-changing world, but some jewelry staples never falter. Diamond hoop and diamond stud earrings are timeless pieces that can be dressed up or down to fit any occasion. However, if you want a “wow” factor a diamond tennis bracelet, or a diamond choker necklace is unparalleled. The old saying, “Diamonds are a girl’s best friend,” still stands true!

Want a more casual look? Try layering necklaces and stacking bangles in white and yellow gold. Mixing and matching colors

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and styles has never been more popular than today.

Luminessence Med-Spa - Sumer Phillips, M.D. luminessenceonline.com 479.274.4200 If you’re starting to notice age spots and fine lines, we can help! It starts with a discussion of how you are currently taking care of your skin. We provide a wide range of results-oriented therapies for every budget ranging from HydraFacial to injectables and fillers to no-downtime laser resurfacing. But a good daily skin care regimen is vital and daily sunscreen a must.

The sooner we can evaluate your skin and your regimen, the sooner we can get you on the path to healthier skin and keep you looking younger than you are.

WOMEN'S GUIDE

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WOMEN'S GUIDE

Methodist Village Senior Living 479.452.1611 methodistvillage.com Methodist Village provides skilled nursing services and

New Health Dental 479.478.6060 newhealthdental.com

physical, occupational and speech therapies to assist with recovering from surgery, illness, or in the treatment of

To give our patients healthy and confident smiles, we often

complex medical conditions. We also offer the largest selec-

perform what’s called “subtle cosmetic dentistry” at New Heath

tion of private rooms in the area, as well as semi-private rooms

Dental. This can include gum contouring, Invisalign, and porce-

and amenities such as cable, phone and wireless communica-

lain veneers which provide very natural and beautiful results. In

tion, massage therapy, staff chaplain, and daily recreational

just a few appointments, your smile can be transformed into

activities including worship services, exercises, music, and

one that makes you proud. Following a regular dental hygiene

parties. Future enhancements comprise a Life Plan Community

program is key in maintaining your beautiful smile. To us, there’s

($55-$65 million investment), including a 28-bed Assisted

nothing more beautiful than a confident smile!

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Living Center, and a 17-bed Alzheimer’s Special Care Unit.

WOMEN'S GUIDE

The Paint Store 479.474.4505 Find them on Facebook

Parade of Homes Greater Fort Smith Association of Home Builders 479.452.6213 fortsmithhomebuilders.com

Have a new home, or want to make changes to the color on Join us during our Annual Parade of Homes! Plan to visit a variety

fears! Give us a call to discuss your project. We can meet with

of beautiful and inspiring homes through a free self-guided tour

you at your home to get a feel for your style and furnishings.

over six days taking place October 21-23 & October 28-30.

If you are replacing flooring or countertops, we’ll consider that

Homes will be open daily from 1:00pm to 6:00pm, for your

too when making color recommendations. We’re here to help,

convenience. Come and browse the latest designs and trends,

and ready to share our 44 years of combined experience to

get ideas that will inspire you, visit with area builders, or shop

transform your house into your dream home.

for your new home. Admission to the Parade of Homes is free!

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your walls but feel a little fearful? Let our experience ease your

WOMEN'S GUIDE

Health for the Ages No matter your stage in life, there are many things you can do to care for your body as you age. Check out the tips below then commit to putting them into action!

20s 30s

• Be aware of what you’re putting in your body. Read labels, they matter.

• Diet and low-cal drinks still contain calories which add up quickly.

• Sunscreen. Wear it. Protect yourself against skin cancer and age gracefully.

• Take care of your bones with a calcium supplement and exercise.

• Boost your brain with high-intensity interval training (HIT), a proper diet, brain games, and adequate sleep.

• Eliminate sugars, especially from desserts, coffee, and juices.

40s

• Make sure you include a large portion of leafy green vegetables with all meals– smoothies are a great way to include them for breakfast.

• Master your metabolism with exercise. Get active with an activity you enjoy; think

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running, Pilates, hiking, or swimming.

50s 60s 70s

• Even if you’ve created bad habits in your 30s and 40s, you have time to make changes.

All Ages

• Make sure you have an established relationship with a primary care provider so they

• Discover a new activity, run a race, pick up a new hobby.

• Know your body and stay on top of health screenings.

• Stay active, both mentally and physically, doing some sort of exercise daily, whether it's a short walk or a morning swim.

• Enjoy outdoor activities like the farmer’s market, walks in local parks and art exhibits.

• Create a safe environment at home. Eliminate areas of concern that could lead to falls and possible bone fractures.

can care for you through all of life’s stages.

• Be aware of and schedule healthcare screenings by age and state of life.

WOMEN'S GUIDE

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WOMEN'S GUIDE

Passmore Plastic Surgery - Dr. Ann Passmore 479.274.6600 passmoreplasticsurgery.com

Valley Behavioral Health System 479.494.5700 valleybehavioral.com

Are you at or near your goal weight but can’t get rid of excess fat?

Our residential, inpatient, outpatient & day treatment programs

A new, non-surgical procedure, Vanquish Fat Reduction Therapy

for men, women, children & seniors provides a safe structure

may be just what you need. You’ve probably heard about it on

where people can focus on healing themselves and working

Dr. Oz and The View. It's an FDA-approved, non-surgical, non-

through their issues. Levels of care & treatment services are

invasive technique that delivers radio frequency energy into

under the medical direction of board-certified psychiatrists, with

targeted areas of fat on the hips, back (love handles), thighs,

each patient receiving personalized treatment by a multi-disci-

and abdomen, without damaging surrounding skin or muscle

plinary team of therapists, social workers, psychiatric nurses,

tissues. You can achieve a substantial reduction in excess fat

educational specialists, Advanced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners

buildup across your midsection over the course of 4 treatments.

and recreational specialists and a team of other caring mental health professionals. Our goal is to provide the tools and knowl-

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edge needed to live a happy, healthy life.

vegetables and fruit and low in sugared drinks, refined carbohydrates and fatty foods. Focus on eating lean proteins, such as fish or chicken breast, and moderate your

WOMEN'S GUIDE

Also, try to follow a diet that is high in

intake of red meat. Eating whole grains and choosing vegetable oils over animal fats is always a good plan.

Third, keep physically active.

Research indicates that physical activity – even when started later in life – reduces overall breast cancer risk by 10 to 30 percent.

Even the addition of moderate exercise, such as a 30-minute walk five days a week, will go

PREVENTING BREAST CANCER 479.441.4100 or 479.471.4467 | SparksHealth.com

a long way toward keeping you on track.

Fourth, drink little or no alcohol and don’t smoke.

Alcohol use and long-term smoking are associated with

The Women’s Center at Sparks and Sparks Medical Center – Van Buren offers a wide range of services for breast cancer detection and treatment. Both locations feature

an increased risk of breast cancer. Women should limit the intake of alcohol to no more than one drink per day and stop or stay away from smoking completely.

digital mammography, and The Women’s Center also offers genetic testing, ultrasound and breast biopsies with

Fifth, avoid hormone replacement therapy.

a radiologist on-site.

Menopausal hormone therapy also increases breast cancer risk. If hormone therapy is absolutely necessary to manage

CONSIDER THESE 5 SIMPLE STEPS TO PREVENTING BREAST CANCER:

menopausal symptoms, please consider avoiding those that contain progesterone and limit their use to three years or less. Additionally, avoid “bioidentical hormones”, as well

First, see your doctor.

as hormonal creams and gels, as they are not any safer than

With early detection and treatment being imperative, the

prescription hormones.

American Cancer Society offers these helpful guidelines:

• Obtain a regular mammogram starting at the age of 40.

For more information on mammography services in Fort Smith,

• Get annual clinical breast exams.

call (479) 441-4100; option 3 or call (479) 471-4467 to schedule

• Perform monthly breast self-exams.

your mammogram in Van Buren.

Second, eat healthy and avoid becoming overweight.

Breast cancer is most likely to occur later in life – often times, after menopause. An unhealthy weight increases breast cancer risk. Throughout your lifetime, it’s best to avoid weight gain and work toward maintaining an ongoing body-mass index under 25.

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• Receive a risk assessment from your physician.

WOMEN'S GUIDE

Yard Yap The Women’s Center at Sparks and Sparks Medical Center sparkshealth.com 479.709-1913 Finding a lump in your breast can be alarming. The first thing you should do if you discover a lump is call your primary care physician to schedule an appointment. Your physician may do an exam in the clinic or order a mammogram. If you don’t have a primary care physician, call The Women’s Center at Sparks to make an appointment in the BreastCare Center to get a breast exam and mammogram with same-day results. In Fort Smith, call (479) 441-4100, option 3; or call (479) 471-4467 to

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schedule your mammogram in Van Buren.

Yard Yap 479.651.1933 Find them on Facebook Created by two local women, JeanAnn Sadler and Renee Carman, Yard Yap will get your yard yappin’! Celebrate special occasions with our colorful and unique yard signs. Perfect for all ages and any occasion. From newborns and birthdays, to weddings and anniversaries, we offer bright and funky numbers and specialty-themed signs. Choose from cakes, cupcakes, dinosaurs, race cars, trucks, champagne bottles, beer mugs, sailboats, storks, baby strollers, princess carriages and even sports! 3-day rentals include set-up and take-down.

We look forward to serving Fort Smith and the River Valley.

Read Chair Publishing, LLC 7030 Taylor Avenue, Suite 5 Fort Smith, AR 72916