DRIP - AUGUST 2022

®

DRIP

AUGUST 2022 DoSouthMagazine.com

02

august

Contents 04 24 50

Letter from Catherine Profiles in Dentistry Special Feature: Back to School

{ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT}

06 12 14

August Events August Book Recommendations

{COMMUNITY}

08 10

Shop

Giving Back by Paying Forward

Dog Days of Summer

This Patch of Earth

{ T R AV E L }

44

Historic Washington State Park

{FICTION} {TASTE}

22

A League of Their Own

The World Within Reach

Project Zero

{HEALTH}

30 34

On Call: A Gala Two Years in the Making

16 18

{PEOPLE}

38 40 42

46

Hayley’s Comet

Picnic Pasta Razzle Dazzle Ice Cream The Minty Melon

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OUR COVER Image Credit: Kolpakova Svetlana/ Shutterstock

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04

Letter from Catherine

T

MOMENTS

This month, our son begins his senior year of high school.

Wasn’t it just yesterday I held his hand, walking him into kindergarten and crying all the way home? In the blink of an eye, our little boy became a bright, handsome, accomplished young man. We’ve spent the past seventeen years dedicated to raising him to be the best version of himself, and we’ve loved every moment. My greatest accomplishment is being his mom.

As he enters his senior year, I pray he enjoys the moments and doesn’t look too far ahead. The excitement is only beginning but the memories will last forever. To all of you with little ones entering school for the first time, hang on, it’s a wonderful ride!

Speaking of school, we have our annual Back to School Guide, filled with local experts ready to make your life a little easier. We continue our profile series on select local dentists and orthodontists who set the bar for excellence, and as our heat wave continues, we share information about heat-related illness and prevention. If you’re looking for things to do, check out our events calendar on page 6 and submit your events and story ideas online! This month, Arkansas Colleges of Health Education hosts On Call, An Elegant Evening for Research (an event two years in the making), and Fort Smith Regional Art Museum boasts several new exhibits. Looking for a quick getaway filled with history and unique accommodations? Look no further than Historic Washington State Park in southwest Arkansas, where you’ll discover preserved 19th-century homes and buildings and a renovated jailhouse that’s now a bed and breakfast! Finally, I am honored to include three heartwarming stories of incredible individuals who are utilizing their time and talents to pay it forward in big ways.

Enjoy these last weeks of summer and soak up the moments! Fall is just around the corner. I’ll see you in September!

Catherine Frederick

Owner/Publisher/Editor catherine@dosouthmagazine.com

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

AUGUST 2022 OWNER - PUBLISHER - EDITOR Catherine Frederick COPY EDITING Charity Chambers GRAPHIC DESIGN Artifex 323 – Jessica Meadors CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Jade Graves CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Catherine Frederick, Dwain Hebda, Sara Putman, Liesel Schmidt ADVERTISING INFORMATION Catherine Frederick I 479.782.1500 catherine@dosouthmagazine.com

FOLLOW US ©2022 Read Chair Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in whole or in part in any manner without the permission of the copyright owner. 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, 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

Annual subscriptions are $36 (12 months), within the contiguous United States.

Subscribe at DoSouthMagazine.com or via mail, 4300 Rogers Avenue, Suite 20-110, Fort Smith, AR, 72903. Single issues available upon request. Inquiries or address changes, call 479.782.1500.

06

entertainment

AUGUST EVENTS Fort Smith Library Events Complete Listing at DoSouthMagazine.com

Fort Smith Convention Center Fort Smith, Arkansas August 19 - 20: Father & Son Comedy Tour August 26: Leanne Morgan Big Panty Tour

Fort Smith International Film Festival Fort Smith, Arkansas August 26: Festival at TempleLive

Fort Smith Little Theatre Fort Smith, Arkansas August 3 - 6, 11 - 13: Annie

Fort Smith Regional Art Museum Fort Smith, Arkansas August August August August

1 1 1 1

-

8: A Bridge to the Future Student Art Sept. 22: Feng Zikai Sept. 22: Shabana Kauser Sept. 25: Doyle Young

Simmons Bank Arena North Little Rock, Arkansas August 5: Hank Williams Jr. Live in Concert August 6: Kevin Hart Reality Check Tour August 27 - 28: Paw Patrol Live!

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Skokos Performing Arts Center Alma, Arkansas August 20: Easton Corbin in Concert

Fort Smith Symphony Popup Concert Fort Smith, Arkansas August 16: The Gallery on Garrison

UAFS Men’s Basketball Elite Camp Fort Smith, Arkansas August 5: Stubblefield Center

Walmart AMP Rogers, Arkansas August August August August August

4: Dierks Bentley 8: Wiz Khalifa & Logic 9: OneRepublic 20: Keith Urban 26: Morgan Wallen

Submit events online at dosouthmagazine.com or email catherine@dosouthmagazine.com.

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08

shop

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10

community

LA'HONEY 16, ALLEN 11, DYLAN 9 This sibling group is looking for a forever home. La'Honey, or Honey to those who know her well, is a dynamic teen with big goals. Honey is the mother to an adorable, busy baby boy, and she is looking for a family to welcome them both. Welcoming Honey comes with a huge bonus — instant grandparenthood! These two are inseparable and Honey is determined to raise her son to thrive and to break the cycle of instability and trauma that brought her into the system. Honey has a natural, self-taught knack for sewing, design, nail art, makeup, hair, you name it! She is involved in ROTC and loves it as she thrives in a structured environment. She is organized, dedicated, and has been promoted in leadership rolls quickly! An animal lover, Honey volunteers at a horse stable and loves to hike and spot IMAGE courtesy Jon Yoder Photography

local wildlife.

Allen, the middle child, is kind, generous, has a big heart and loves fiercely. He enjoys building with Legos and collecting Pokémon or Spider-Man. You can also find him outdoors riding his bike, unwinding in the sensory garden, playing basketball, or tossing a football.

Dylan, the youngest, is a socialite. He enjoys hanging out with friends, playing outside, and riding his bike. He is mechanically inclined, and he enjoys building and taking things apart. Legos and Hot Wheels are some of his favorite things! Dylan is also incredibly artistic and enjoys creating, painting, and drawing.

Honey is finding her footing as she transitions to young adulthood and as she strives to be an advocate for herself and her child. Honey and Allen live with diabetes and are learning to manage this condition. In addition to advanced endocrinology care for Honey and Allen, all three are participating in trauma-focused therapy and are making great strides and will continue long-term. Allen has a mild intellectual disability and needs guidance with day-to-day self-care tasks. Dylan is behind educationally and needs a family dedicated to helping him close the education gap. They would thrive best in a household that offers structure, guidance, where there are no other children, and a mother to love them unconditionally. Could your family be the right fit? Submit an inquiry at theprojectzero.org to learn more!

In partnership with Project Zero and the Arkansas Heart Gallery, each month Do South® will feature a waiting child, or sibling group, in foster care in Arkansas. To inquire about these incredible children, please visit theprojectzero.org.

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12

entertainment

Enjoy these four must-read books from our friends at Bookish, Fort Smith, Arkansas’s only independently owned bookstore.

August Recommendations courtesy Sara Putman, Bookish

Notes on an Execution

Horse

Flying Solo

Rogues

by Danya Kukafka

by Geraldine Brooks

by Linda Holmes

by Patrick Radden Keefe

Meet serial killer Ansel Packer.

More than your typical thriller, Kukafka seeks to deconstruct the killer’s story and the way we, as a culture, engage in serial killer content. She does this by telling the story through the lens of the women in his life: his mother, the detective, and the twin sister of one of his victims. While this book is about a serial killer, it’s also about grief and how we cope. It’s about womanhood and unraveling the obsession with crime stories. It will leave you questioning the system while at the same time, proud of the women in the story you have come to know.

Horse is many things, but in the end, you’ll find yourself planning a trip to the International Museum of the Horse, where you’ll find the articulated skeleton of our central character, Lexington, the famous Thoroughbred racehorse. The novel is framed through the eyes of Jess, who is the Aussie scientist who finds Lexington’s bones in an attic in the Smithsonian (this actually happened in the early 2000s) and Theo, an art historian studying blackness in art.

Together, they unravel the mystery that was Lexington. Beautifully written and well researched, Horse includes cameos from Martha Jackson, Jackson Pollock, and Thomas J. Scott.

Laurie Sassalyn has a family who loves her, a great job in Seattle, and childhood friends who still support her. The biggest issue in Laurie’s life is that she is about to turn forty and she recently called off her engagement. As the story opens, Laurie is grieving the death of her favorite Aunt Dot, so she sets off for her hometown in Calcasset, Maine where she quickly finds herself responsible for going through ninety-three years’ worth of her aunt’s treasures! As she does, she unravels mysteries about Dot’s past that are sweet, sometimes spicey, and in the end, quite inspiring.

In his newest book, Keefe

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brings together some of his most celebrated articles from the New Yorker. Keefe’s work is meticulously reported and engaging, and in this book, he covers the lives of the most interesting criminals and rascals in recent history. These articles cover stories about wine forgeries, whistleblowers, Keefe’s time spent in Vietnam with Anthony Bourdain, and he even profiles a passionate death penalty attorney who represents the “worst of the worst.” Keefe does, however, stick to the themes he finds most intriguing including secrets and lies, the slippery slope dividing the illicit and licit, the bonds of family, and the power of denial.

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entertainment

On Call

A GALA TWO YEARS IN THE MAKING

words Dwain Hebda Image courtesy Arkansas Colleges of Health Education L to R: Christina Catsavis, Joan McCoy, Jackie Krutsch, and Russ Bragg

They say good things come to those who wait and

at the same time, we want people to see what we are building

if that’s true, the On Call gala, slated for September, will

here and for them to go, ‘Oh my gosh! I didn’t realize that

be the charitable event of the year. The occasion, originally

we had that kind of medical research capabilities here in Fort

scheduled for 2020, has been pushed back twice due to

Smith. I had no idea.’”

COVID concerns, which has made organizers eager to finally On Call, An Elegant Evening for Research, is slated for

see the event come to fruition.

Saturday, September 17 at 6pm. Money raised goes to “When was the last time you were out with 600 of

support research programs at the ACHE Research Institute

your friends?” says Jackie Krutsch, executive director of

Health and Wellness Center in the former Golden Living

advancement for Arkansas Colleges of Health Education

headquarters on the ACHE campus. Choctaw Casino and

(ACHE). “This is an event that’s going to be a lot of fun, but

Resort in Pocola is the presenting sponsor of the event.

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entertainment

“We purchased the former Golden Living headquarters in

They’ve made salads. They’ve learned about emulsification by

2020,” Jackie says. “It was just a phenomenal opportunity

making a vinaigrette for their salad. So, you build science and

to get a great building that we could repurpose at a very

nutrition and art projects around nutrition and all of that gets

reasonable cost. In that way, we’re bringing research to Fort

built into their education.

Smith so much sooner and at a much higher level.”

“We cannot produce enough health care professionals to A blend of art and health will come to life just steps into the

address the health care needs that we have facing us in this

On Call event. Attendees will participate in a special sculpture

country. We’ve got to get people healthier so that the number

project at check-in, after which they will enjoy music, hors

of health care professionals that we have and that we’re

d’oeuvres and an open bar. A signature drink, developed just

producing can meet the needs within the community.”

for the occasion, will also be served. After the social hour, the doors will open to an elegant dinner of steak and scallops plus

Once fully funded, their scientists will focus on a variety of

specialty desserts. A live auction will follow and after that, live

chronic health needs within the community.

musical entertainment by Intensity from Dallas.

“Some of the needs of the community population we will be “We have two raffles in addition to the live auction,” Jackie

addressing are in the areas of diabetes, cardiovascular disease

says. “We’re going to be raffling off a gorgeous jewelry item

and neuroscience related to drug and alcohol addiction,”

donated by Newton’s Jewelers. In our Lucky Draw, patrons can

Jackie says. “The work will have a direct impact on regional

choose which raffle they want to participate in. We’ve got a

healthcare expertise resulting in improved healthcare and

fabulous bourbon gift basket that has allocated bourbons like

wellness. ACHE’s new Vice President of Research Dr. Jeffery

Blanton’s and Eagle Rare. In another raffle, we’re going to have

Osborn, along with Dr. Lisa McClain, chief wellness officer,

a Big Green Egg, and in another, a pearl and emerald necklace

will be leading these efforts.”

from The Jewelry Store.

Asked what she most wanted people to understand about “Then, we’ll have a great after party to cap off a really fun

On Call, An Elegant Evening for Research and its capacity for

evening. If you’re not on the floor dancing, you can relax out on

improving health and health outcomes in the future, Jackie

the patio. It's an opportunity to be with friends and neighbors,

paused a moment.

helping us support research in the community.”

“I think having the chance to really expose the greater Fort The event will cap ticket sales at six hundred; individual tickets

Smith region to the fact that we’re creating a top-level research

are $200. Formal attire is required, black tie is optional. Jackie

institute right here that will have direct benefits for the health

says the goal for the evening is to raise $250,000 with proceeds

and well-being of the entire area is important,” she says. “I

not only helping with in-house research, but also supporting

would also want people to know that their participation and

programs that are already ongoing in the community, targeting

support may save someone’s life, perhaps someone in their

early eating habits and food literacy to help head off health

own family.”

issues later in life.

“Through the Health and Wellness Center, we have a pilot nutrition program using hydroponic gardens in local kindergarten classrooms,” Jackie says. “We’ll be adding them to first-grade classrooms and they’ll follow these children as they move up.

Every time they move up a grade, this hydroponic garden will assist them in learning about nutrition and where food comes

For more information and to buy tickets, please visit achehealth.edu.

from – from planting the seed to harvesting and eating the food that they’re raising. They’ve made salsa in kindergarten.

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entertainment

Giving Back by

Paying Forward

W

words Dwain Hebda Images courtesy Skokos Performing Arts Center

When Shannon Boy Skokos was a student at Alma High School, her participation and leadership in the classroom and extracurricular activities left her mark on her alma mater. Now, it will bear her name for all time.

Shannon

and

her

husband

Ted

recently

announced a $1 million gift through their private family foundation to the Alma Education and Arts Foundation. The money will establish the Shannon and Ted Skokos Endowed Scholarship Fund, benefiting graduates of Alma High School who are pursuing college, trade school or other

Shannon and Ted Skokos

post-high school educational opportunities.

“It is truly an honor to give back to a school district that gave so much to me,” Shannon says. “My husband and I believe in the power of education and want to assist young men and women in pursuing their dreams. At the same time, we are excited to provide funding to enhance the performing arts center and to promote the education of the arts.”

The endowment will be combined with existing endowments the Foundation manages with the earnings used to fund scholarships each year. In recognition of their generous gift – some of which may also be used to make upgrades to the Performing Arts Center – the arts building will be renamed the Shannon and Ted Skokos Performing Arts Center. Shannon says the gift touches everything that helped shape her as a youth and a student growing up, and which led to future success after high school.

“The arts began shaping my life at an early age,” she says. “When I was just two years old, my mom enrolled me in ballet classes. By the time I was ten, I was playing the flute and at the age of seventeen, I served as principal flutist for the U.S. Collegiate Wind Ensemble throughout Europe and London, performing in underserved communities.

“That early exposure to the arts provided a personal outlet for expressive thought, provided a discipline honed through attention to detail, and provided a means of connection both with fellow performers and with audience members.

Recognizing the value of those assets for young people is critically important, and I hope the Skokos Foundation gift will generate greater opportunity for that to happen.”

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entertainment

Shannon, a 1988 Alma salutatorian, would go on to win the

the community. The foundation has awarded $1.5 million in

title of Miss Arkansas in 1992, launch a successful law career

scholarships to students in all academic areas of study to pursue

and today devotes much of her energies to philanthropy. She

post-high school educational opportunities. The Shannon and

says the investment teachers made in her in high school are

Ted Skokos Scholarship Fund will further support educational

what inspire her to invest in others today.

opportunities for students in the Alma School District.

“Dr. Loretta Rhoads, Bruce Caselman and Coach John Grant,

Chuck King, Alma Foundation Executive Director, says the

through their personal investments in me outside the confines

gift will accelerate the foundation’s work, reaching more

of the class curriculum, taught me that the greatest positive

students and seeding more futures. “This is such a tremendous

influence one can have is made when no one is watching and

opportunity for the Alma Education and Arts Foundation to

nothing is expected in return,” Shannon says.

grow and improve while supporting our students with plans for pursuing education after high school,” he says.

“The desire of our foundation is quite simple – to leave this earth just a little better than we found it and to inspire a few

Shannon says she hopes the ultimate legacy of the gift is

individuals along the way to shatter the societal and cultural

measured in the number of young people who are inspired

bubble to think above and beyond. The curriculum of the

to reach higher in continuing their education, pursuing their

Performing Arts Center is not only aligned with our foundation’s

passion in the workplace and building stronger communities,

mission, but it is innovative and impactful in a way that I have

one success story at a time. "I wish I could impress upon all

not seen anywhere else in the nation.”

students to love themselves for the magnificent person they were created to be, to understand that we all make mistakes,

The Skokos duo has been a potent force for change and

and we are all flawed, and to appreciate that it is through our

philanthropy in western Arkansas. Shannon’s husband Ted, a

commonalities and shared experiences of joy and hurt that

former attorney, businessman, Gulf War veteran and Fort Smith

we find common ground, build bonds and share empathy,”

native, has been her equal when it comes to supporting the

she says.

causes and institutions that lift people to become their best.

“We don’t wear our faith on our sleeves, but we do believe it

“Being a teenager is not easy. There is much pressure to meet

is our responsibility to leave this earth better than we found

expectations. My prayer is that these young people can learn

it,” he says.

to look beyond the immediate to be kind to themselves and to one another, and to begin identifying their individual gifts and

The

encourages

talents so that they may explore using them for the betterment

high school students to pursue post-secondary education,

Alma

Education

and

Arts

Foundation

of their career path and to find their own way to leave the earth

promotes education in the arts and provides arts exposure to

just a little better than they found it.”

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entertainment

THE WORLD WITHIN REACH WORDs Dwain Hebda images courtesy Fort Smith Regional Art Museum

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

A Ask

Garrett

entertainment

Copeland,

marketing

coordinator for the Fort Smith Regional Art Museum, what’s the best museum experience in Arkansas and he won’t even blink. Fort Smith’s Regional Art Museum, he’ll tell you, beats others around the state hands down.

“Museums just have to open up a facility and put art on the walls to meet the bare minimum and people can come if they want to come, or if they don’t, they don’t,” he said. “We’ve never done it that way. RAM has always done an excellent job of not just bringing in pretty pieces of art for people to look at, but to showcase pieces that are thought-provoking.

“We also provide interactive opportunities for the public

knowledgeable staff, prominent artists, halls of treasures,

in order to weave the artistic fabric that our region craves.

great organization and production is their earned impeccable

We encourage everyone, regardless of their art history or

reputation, and meets the high expectations of excited visitors

background, to visit us. If you have questions, comments or

and American Art Awards.”

concerns, we have someone to walk through the exhibitions with you. We’re proud to focus on art education, and you

If the idea of Fort Smith’s RAM topping the likes of the

won’t find that in all museums.”

internationally-famous Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville for the honor – not once but twice – sounds

Instinctively, it’s easy to chalk up such comments as the

like something worth celebrating, you’re right. However,

bravado of youth and the pride of place that comes from

RAM’s team of paid staffers and loyal volunteers simply see

having grown up in the area, both of which apply to Garrett,

it as the natural outcome of years of hard work. Founded in

a Greenwood native who’s only been in his role a little more

1948 under the Arkansas Association of University Women,

than a month. But there’s also the little matter of him being

the organization has seen a lot grace its walls and shift the

right in his assessment, one shared by different organizations

tastes of the public. Over time, RAM solidified its wheelhouse

within the art world.

in education, helping audiences not only access fine art, but understand and appreciate such works as well.

One of those groups, The American Art Awards, has for the second time since 2018 named Fort Smith Regional Art

Maintaining this focus over the years has made RAM

Museum the best museum in the state and one of the twenty

exceptionally adept in the execution of its philosophy. The vast

best American galleries and museums for 2022.

majority of exhibits are free of charge, and all are designed to appeal to a wide range of ages. Visitors can take in the works

“Besides being a visual masterpiece, their numerous free,

on their own, or take advantage of RAM’s popular tours, led

ongoing programs for the youth are a gift to the open mind,

by trained docents, or guides, who help bring the collections

and Arkansas as a whole,” the judges stated through a press

vividly to life.

release. “Well-intentioned, socially conscious programs,

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

19

20

entertainment want everyone to know you don’t have to spend a bunch of money for entertainment. Visit us at the museum and do something interactive!”

In 1960, the Arkansas Association of University Women occupied its first space for an art center, and in 1968 the Fort Smith Art Center was incorporated. The small original home offered a valuable service for local and regional artists by offering space for its artists for five decades.

A major turning point occurred in 2009 when Arvest Bank donated the 16,000-square-foot building at 1601 Rogers Avenue to the Art Center, following Arvest’s $211 million buyout of Superior Federal Bank.

“What we do really well is guided tours and educational classes and activities,” Garrett says. “We try to connect our

In 2011, the museum's founding executive director was hired

constituents, volunteers, and attendees, and show them how

to oversee the museum's renovation project and to facilitate

to interpret art and know how to use the principles of art.

its greatly expanded programming. The Art Center was fully

Even those without a background in art appreciation can

re-branded and opened in January of 2013 as the Fort Smith

utilize our staff and volunteers to really learn how to digest

Regional Art Museum in full compliance with the standards of

art. I think that’s a really big asset.

the American Alliance of Museums.

“Volunteer Marti Corff, for instance, provides guided tours

Among its collection of other prestigious awards is the 2013

and not only shares behind-the-scenes information about

Preservation through Rehabilitation Award from the Historic

our exhibitions, but as a longtime Fort Smith elementary art

Preservation Alliance of Arkansas; the 2014 American Institute

teacher, she helps people learn how to look at art. She explains

of Architects (AIA) Gulf State Region Merit Award; and a Gold

in a wonderful and easy-to-understand way why the elements

Award from the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID).

and principles of art, such as color, form, line, shape, space and texture, can enrich the art viewing experience. She provides rich

Garrett says plans are being finalized for programming to

information that we are thrilled to provide the community.”

mark RAM’s 75th birthday celebration, beginning next year.

He said while details were as-yet unavailable, he promised

Special events to plan for in August include the Sundays at

patrons and guests alike a yearlong celebration of art that

RAM, each spotlighting a different artist. On August 14,

lives up to the museum's sterling reputation.

take in an exhibition of Doyle Young and on August 28, view the work of Shabana Kauser. Another popular feature is the

“Beginning in January, it will be event after event for our

Landmark Lessons lecture series, the latest of which focuses on

75th year,” he says. “We invite everyone in to see how things

Fort Smith native John Bell Jr., a well-known artist and tireless

are constantly changing and evolving here at the museum as

advocate for people with disabilities. Bell’s estate donated

we strive to provide a variety of perspectives. We’re going to

the entirety of his collection to RAM following his death in

make as big a deal of that as we possibly can.”

2013. Any of these special events represent a fascinating and fun-filled day for the whole family “We promote Sundays as a family day at RAM,” Garrett says.

Sundays are typically a day off for the whole family, and we

Fort Smith Regional Art Museum 1601 Rogers Avenue Fort Smith 479.784.2787 | fsram.org

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22

health

DOG DAYS

OF SUMMER

WORDS Dr. Kendall Wagner, Chaffee Crossing Clinic Image Apiwich Pudsumran/Shutterstock

As I am writing this article,

we have had two

or working indoors in a hot, humid environment such as a

weeks of over 100˚ weather. Withered grass crunches under my

manufacturing plant increases the likelihood of heat-related

feet and just walking outside results in sweating! My thoughts

illness. Additional risk factors include dehydration, obesity,

quickly turn to the risks for friends who work outside in

poor physical condition, and naivety to the hot environment.

construction and lawn care, elderly neighbors with inadequate

Medical conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, and

access to air conditioning, and student athletes who will soon

heart conditions may increase the risk as well. Occupational

resume athletic training in preparation for fall sports.

requirements for heavy clothing such as fire, police, or industrial roles can also increase the risk. Student athletes

Hot, humid days like these increase our risk of heat-related

also experience a higher rate of heat-related illness with

illness. Our bodies normally maintain a healthy core body

approximately 9,000 cases per year – the majority of those

temperature through a process called thermoregulation,

occur during football season. Finally, children less than four

controlled by a region of the brain called the hypothalamus.

years of age and individuals sixty-five years of age and older

The hypothalamus sends signals to the skin and capillaries

are also at increased risk.

(small blood vessels near the surface of skin) activating a process that releases heat from the surface of the skin. When

HEAT RASH

your body temperature is elevated, your body relies on the

Heat rash is the mildest form of heat-related illness and

evaporation of sweat from the surface of the skin to assist

presents as red, itchy skin which may also feel “tingly.” Small

in releasing heat into the environment. As the environmental

bumps or blisters may form in skin folds where skin touches

temperature and humidity increase, sweating becomes less

skin or areas of the skin that stay moist such as the neck,

effective. When the rate of heat entering and being produced

underarms, or upper chest. The rash occurs when excessive

by the body exceeds the amount of heat able to be released

sweat becomes trapped under the surface of the skin resulting

from the body, the risk for heat-related illness develops.

in obstruction of the sweat gland. Core body temperature is usually normal. Treatment involves use of light, breathable

There are four presentations of heat-related illness which can

fabrics, application of powder to combat moisture on the

occur during periods of overheating. These are heat rash, heat

skin, and seeking shade when available. Ointments should

cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. While heat rash and

be avoided in this situation as they result in blockage of the

cramps are mild presentations, heat stroke and exhaustion

sweat gland.

are more severe. Working outside during the summer months DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

health HEAT CRAMPS

and placement of ice packs in the groin and under the arms.

Electrolytes are minerals in your body that have an electric

Emergency medical personnel should be called, and the

charge. They are in your blood, urine, tissues, and other

patient should be transported to the hospital for monitoring

body fluids. They are important because they help balance

and treatment.

the amount of water in your body. Heat cramps occur when excessive amounts of electrolytes such as sodium and

RHABDOMYOLYSIS

magnesium are lost through sweating. Usually, this type of

Rhabdomyolysis is another heat-related condition which

loss occurs through exercising. Heat cramps present as pain

can develop in individuals engaging in strenuous, prolonged

and spasms in the legs, arms, and abdomen. Core body

exercise, such as marathon runners. Rhabdomyolysis is the

temperature is often normal. Heat cramps can be improved

rapid rupture and death of muscle cells leading to the release of

by rest and rehydration with fluid containing electrolytes. It

large amounts of electrolytes, mainly potassium, and proteins

is recommended to drink water every fifteen minutes in hot,

into the bloodstream resulting in abnormal heart rhythms and

humid environments and frequently consume drinks or snacks

damage to the kidneys. Early symptoms may include muscle

containing electrolytes.

cramps and pain as well as dark coloration of the urine.

Prevention involves adequate hydration – greater than 80-100

HEAT EXHAUSTION

ounces of water per day – and conditioning properly prior to

Heat exhaustion occurs with excessive loss of electrolytes and

strenuous physical activity as well as frequent breaks to allow

water from the body through sweating and presents with quick,

muscle recovery. Treatment includes aggressive hydration with

shallow breathing, heavy sweating, thirst, weakness, irritability,

intravenous fluids in a hospital setting.

muscle cramps, dizziness, headache, and decreased urine output. Core body temperature is usually elevated. Treatment

PREVENTION

involves moving the individual to a cool, well-ventilated

Prevention is key and involves planning outdoor activities

area, removal of heat-retaining clothing, application of cool

earlier in the day, maintaining adequate hydration with water

compresses to the face, neck, and chest, and slow, steady

or fluids containing electrolytes (a minimum of sixty ounces of

rehydration with cool fluids containing electrolytes. Evaluation

water per day for most individuals), avoiding alcohol intake

by the individual’s personal physician may also be necessary.

as this results in worsening dehydration, seeking shade when able, and looking out for younger children and the elderly

HEAT STROKE

who are more susceptible. Additionally, student athletes or

Heat stroke is the most severe heat-related illness. It occurs

those engaging in prolonged strenuous activity should make

when the body loses the ability to control body temperature.

sure to build their endurance with graded training and plan

The sweating mechanism fails, and core body temperature

frequent rests during workouts or outside activity. Engaging

rises rapidly, sometimes up to 106˚ Fahrenheit, over a matter

in water-related activities such as a swimming pool or a splash

of minutes. Without immediate emergent care heat stroke

pad can help to prevent overheating during hot summer days

can quickly progress to permanent disability or even death.

– just remember to wear your sunscreen, drink plenty of cool

Early signs of heat stroke include confusion, altered mental

water, and practice water safety.

status and slurred speech. Initially, sweating may be profuse, but progresses to hot, dry skin as heat stroke develops. As the body

Kendall Wagner, M.D. is a regular healthcare contributor to Do South® Magazine.

temperature rises, seizures and loss of consciousness may occur. Treatment is based on rapid cooling of the affected individual

Chaffee Crossing Clinic 11300 Roberts Boulevard, Fort Smith, Arkansas 479.242.5910 | chaffeecrossingclinic.com

through removal of heat-retaining clothing, circulation of air, application of cool, wet towels to the face, torso and extremities,

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

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2022

DENTISTRY PROFILES SPECIAL FEATURE PRESENTED BY

WORDS Dwain Hebda and Catherine Frederick some interviews have been edited for length and clarity

Do South® Magazine is proud to recognize the expertise and contributions of local dentists and orthodontists who set the bar for excellence and are committed to the best in care for their patients.

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

Dr. HenRy Udouj, III

Returning home in 1999, he joined his father Henry Udouj Jr.,

Udouj Orthodontics

his father taught him. “ We stay up-to-date with the latest

who’d had a successful practice since 1972. The duo worked side by side until 2017 and today, Henry carries on the lessons advancements in the orthodontic world and constantly attend

Henry Udouj III, D.D.S. said exceeding

continuing education courses,” Henry says. “ We specialize in all

patients’ expectations, literally putting a

types of orthodontic cases from simple to complex procedures

smile on their faces, is the highest reward

that require jaw surgery. Our practice treats kids through seniors.”

of

providing

expert,

compassionate

orthodontia services. “I love orthodontics

The practice has expanded to include a location in Poteau,

because it is not monotonous,” he says.

Oklahoma, as well as the original Fort Smith clinic, employing ten.

“Every case is different and therefore must be treated differently.

There is no one way to treat case properly, therefore, it keeps me on

“Customer service is key to a great practice,” he says. “Our staff

my toes.”

is very friendly and greets all patients warmly. We take a special interest in all our patients’ lives and our office is fun and bright.

Henry graduated from Fort Smith High School in 1987 and earned a bachelor's degree from Trinity University in San Antonio. He

“In diagnosing and treating a case, I begin by saying, ‘What would

completed Baylor Dental School and holds a master's degree in

I do if this were my child?’ When you genuinely care about your

orthodontics from St. Louis University School of Orthodontics.

patients' lives, it shows."

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River Valley Smile Center Everywhere you look at the River Valley Smile Center, you’re made to feel like family and that’s not by accident. When Drs. Charlie Liggett and Cole Johnson decided they wanted to go into dentistry, it was with one overriding goal in mind – to set up a practice in Fort Smith that provided comprehensive dental care to the people of their hometown.

“I grew up here and see people that I know or who my family’s known every day,” Charlie says. “I never really thought I’d be doing anything else. This is just what I’ve always wanted to do.”

“It’s great to come back and take care of the people that you grew up with and see those families grow with yours,” Cole agrees. “You’re more tied to the community when your practice is made up of your friends and family.”

The family ties go much deeper than the current practice. Charlie and Cole grew up about a block from one another in Fort Smith and both had family in dental medicine. Charlie’s uncle and Cole’s father were both dentists in Fort Smith and both played a role in getting the two established following dental school. Today, the family ties continue as Charlie’s wife Heather is onboard with the business as a dental hygienist specializing in pediatric patients.

As for the two dentists themselves, both have had extensive training in various dental specialties, allowing them to perform even the most complex procedures up to and including full-mouth reconstruction. They are also one of the few area dental practices trained in use of IV sedation to help give their patients a stress-free, pain-free experience.

Combine this technical expertise with the clinic’s unmatched customer service and you have a recipe for total patient satisfaction.

“I don’t want to just treat a mouth. I want to treat the whole patient,” Cole says. “Sometimes that’s just listening to them talk about whatever’s going on in their world for a couple minutes before you get started doing what you need to do. It makes the patient much more comfortable with you in the chair if they like you. You can do the best dentistry in the world, but if you’re not a likable person, they’re not going to think you’re a very good dentist.”

“What’s most fun to me is when somebody looks in the mirror for the first time and sees the work that you have done to improve their smile,” Charlie says. “Sometimes just seeing that chokes them up a little bit. That’s one of the neatest things. You take somebody who hasn’t been able to eat well or chew well and they finally get their teeth fixed, they’re just elated.

That’s definitely what makes it all worthwhile.”

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

Moore Dental Care As one of the most respected and knowledgeable dentists in the River Valley, Dr. Wes Moore has consistently added to his expertise in his chosen profession by completing a myriad of post-graduate training.

In fact, he’s attained Fellowship status in the Academy of General Dentistry; a Fellowship in the International Congress of Oral Implantologists; Diplomate status in the American Academy of Implant Dentistry; is a Bale-Doneen heart health provider and is well-versed in holistic dental care. His most recent work has centered on relieving TMJ pain, headaches, tinnitus, and associated ailments that accompany joint dysfunction.

But talk to him about what really sets his practice, Moore Dental Care, apart and he’ll tell you when it comes to patients, the personal touch is just as important as the professional credential.

“My team makes the difference; I have awesome team members who constantly look for ways to make our patients say ‘WOW!’” Dr. Wes says. “And I was fortunate to find an experienced dentist to team up with. Dr. Jan Nagrampa has been with us for two years and has expanded our capacity to provide great dentistry to great patients.

“Dentistry is not fun for a lot of people. But we try to make it very comfortable as we try to achieve their goals, whether that’s a prettier smile, a healthier smile, a better night’s sleep or to just make the pain go away. We have treatments that can improve in each of these areas and we apply that expertise with a kind and caring touch that puts people at ease.”

Dr. Wes, Dr. Jan and the clinic’s staff perform a wide range of procedures, from cleanings to dental implants, with the majority of procedures all completed in one location.

When not in the office, Dr. Wes likes to travel with his wife Staci, go fishing with his son Collin, and visit his daughter Kirby in New Orleans where she is in her residency program for pediatric dentistry. Dr. Jan loves to travel with her physician husband Roland, having visited Turkey, Dubai, Africa, Bhutan and other exotic destinations.

And of course, both doctors are especially committed to helping people attain healthy and beautiful smiles.

“Here at Moore Dental Care, we’re known for our kindness, compassion, and the desire to help,” Dr. Wes says. “It’s a wonderful responsibility to serve others and that’s why we treat each patient as if they are a member of our own family.”

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people

A LEAGUE OF THEIR OWN WORDS Dwain Hebda IMAGES courtesy SHIFT.AR

In May 1985, Alma native Doug Moore suffered a motorcycle accident that left him a paraplegic. Not content to let one day define the rest of his life, Doug launched a local wheelchair basketball league

in

1986

and

competed

in

wheelchair sports for the next thirty-five years. But for as active a life as he’s led, one activity appeared to be out of reach for even this never-say-die competitor.

“I have several friends involved in CrossFit and I actually went to a CrossFit gym five or six years ago and talked to the instructor,” says Doug, age sixty. “He just scratched his head and said, ‘I got nothing for ya.’ I left thinking, 'Maybe that’s not John McIntosh

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

for disabled people.'”

people Retiring from wheelchair basketball in 2020 over COVID

common where we were from in Carolina, but we found out

concerns, Doug couldn’t have imagined the next chapter in

there really was nothing going on like that in the region, Fort

his athletic journey would include the very activity he thought

Smith specifically.

was beyond him. Earlier this year, he took a chance on a new CrossFit training program designed specifically for patients

“There’s a huge problem with that, because exercise is the

dealing with Parkinson's and spinal cord injuries. In so doing,

most beneficial thing someone with Parkinson’s can do to

a whole new world has opened to the longtime Southwest

slow disease progression and suppress symptoms. It actually

EMS dispatcher.

leads medication as far as actually slowing the disease.”

“When I got approached, they explained the program and

The couple found programs serving spinal cord injury

asked, ‘Would you be willing to try it?’ I said, ‘Sure, I’ll try

patients – Kaci's specialty – was similarly lacking, so they set

it,’” he says. “I was a little apprehensive but decided to give

about creating their own. SHIFT.AR is a series of modified

it a shot and see what the outcome was going to be. It’s

workouts tailored to the two conditions, complete with

been fabulous.”

specialized equipment for people within these categories.

They also landed two grants to bring their program to life,

“I think initially when individuals hear the word ‘CrossFit’

one from the Parkinson’s Foundation and one from the Craig

some folks may think of injury or getting hurt or that it’s so

H. Neilsen Foundation.

hard or intense that they can’t possibly do that,” says Kaci Handlery, who with her husband Reed, are the architects of

But for as quickly as that all happened, the effort very nearly

the program. “That was Reed and my job to convince them

ran aground for want of a gym space, had it not been for a

you absolutely can. We adapted the exercises both for people

local gym owner dedicated to inclusiveness.

with Parkinson’s and for people with spinal cord injury. We can adapt the exercises to wherever they’re at and whatever abilities they have.

“When we were able to convince folks that it’s going to be led by two physical therapists who are wholly capable of adapting these exercises, and once they got to meet me and Reed in person and came to the first class, everybody’s been hooked since then.”

The couple, who both CrossFit themselves, created the modified weight training program as both a community service and as a research program. Trained as physical therapists, the duo both teach as assistant professors at the School of Physical Therapy at the Arkansas Colleges of Health Education (ACHE). When they arrived in Fort Smith from South Carolina in January of last year, they were shocked at the scant available resources that existed for their patients.

“When we looked to see what was available for people with Parkinson’s, with spinal cord injury, with stroke, we Googled it and tried to find places in Fort Smith that offered communitybased exercise programs,” says Reed, who specializes in Parkinson’s patients. “Those types of programs are fairly

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

Doug Moore and Don Traynor

31

18 32

community people

Reed and Kaci Handlery

“Shortly after we moved here, I started sending out mass emails to most of the gyms in Fort Smith,” Reed says. “I really only got one reply and it was almost immediately. It was probably within twelve hours of sending the email, and that was from Wes Sadler.”Unlike his fellow gym owners in town, Wes, who with his wife owns CrossFit Fort Smith, didn’t hesitate to get on board with the new program.

“Zero hesitation on my part,” Wes says. “It’s a no-brainer to me because our passion since the beginning is to reach anyone who’s willing and interested in fitness, no matter your age or your experience or your abilities. I’ve said ever since CrossFit came about that it's infinitely scalable. It doesn’t matter what your age or your ability is. If you come rolling in here in a wheelchair, it doesn’t matter.

“When Reed hit me up, I was like 'This is perfect!' These are the like-minded people I want to hang out with because there’s no limitations to anyone. If you’re an eighty-fiveyear-old person who’s fighting to stay out of the nursing home, we’ve got a place for you.”

With a program in hand and a place to call home, Reed and Kaci began recruiting participants for the twice-weekly, seventy-five-minute sessions. Aided by students from the medical college, the duo puts people through their paces, each to their own ability.

“From the adaptive equipment perspective, that’s where my experience in working with individuals with spinal cord injury came in,” Kaci says. “We have purchased Concept2 ski ergometers with the grant funds. It’s an aerobic piece of equipment very common in CrossFit that features an adaptive wide base which allows individuals who utilize a wheelchair to pull right up and use that piece of equipment independently.

“We’ve also used adaptive gripping. Oftentimes individuals with spinal cord injury have a hard time grasping items. We have grip aids that allow them to enhance their grip during aerobic activity or during strength training. We also purchased some split ropes and adaptive jump ropes, so you get the same stimulus, everybody moves and does the same exercise, but in their own unique way.”

Wes and Kelly Sadler

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

people

The benefits of the group classes aren’t just physical. Reed says

“The other thing about that is it makes you not feel so

the socialization aspect of SHIFT.AR is every bit as impactful as

isolated. When you’re in a group setting like that and you’re

improved aerobic and anaerobic functions.

with other people that you become friends with, if I have any questions about details or small things that are a nuisance,

“For both groups, but spinal cord injuries specifically, this is

there are plenty of people to talk to and we do that on a

the first time many in the class met someone else with a spinal

regular basis. We all ask each other questions. We all help

cord injury,” Reed says. “A lot of that’s because of COVID.

each other out.

With COVID people were isolated. Even if they went to rehab, only one patient was allowed to interact at a time, so they lost

"I think that’s the greatest benefit of the program is that

that social component.

you’re with others that share the issues you have on a day-to-day basis. From the minute you get up to the minute

“A beautiful thing about the group classes is even though the exercise is where all the work happens, if you come earlier or stay later, you’re going to see people interacting

you go to bed, Parkinson’s delivers lots of opportunities to overcome a challenge.”

Reed and Kaci have big plans and are hoping to be able to spread the workouts to sites across Arkansas in the near future. In the meantime, the movement that they’ve started

and talking about things because they

in Fort Smith continues to inspire its members as well as the

have similar experiences. They’ll be talking

community at large.

about different wheelchair cushions or

“It’s amazing,” says Wes. “I’ve been getting up and coaching

conversations that won’t happen in a

a 5am CrossFit class for ten years. When you see a guy in

typical gym setting if they are the only

CrossFitting, doing a variation of the same workout that the

here that comes rolling in in an electric wheelchair and he’s

person there in a wheelchair.

college football running back is doing, it’s pretty amazing.

“The social support is the big thing people are getting.

“It’s a very humbling experience because we have athletes

Kaci and I do not have a spinal cord injury, we do not have Parkinson’s, so they get something from us, but they get more, arguably, from their fellow participants. It’s the shared

from some of our other classes that come by just because they want to hang out with them. It’s really a cool deal. It makes it all worth it. I’ve heard from so many people over the years

experiences that’s really nice to see.”

who say, ‘I can’t do that. It’s too hard.’ I send them pictures

John McIntosh, age seventy-five, has experienced this

this. Check this dude out.’ It’s awesome. It’s something that

of these folks and I’m like, ‘Tell me again that you can’t do

firsthand. Diagnosed eighteen months ago with Parkinson’s,

everyone should see.”

he’s been involved with SHIFT.AR since it began.

“I really had no idea how hard I could work out [with Parkinson’s],” he says. “Reed and Kaci have a really welldesigned program and it showed everyone that participates that we can still reach a level of activity that gets our heart rate up, makes us sweat, it makes us sore and you leave the workout going, ‘Man, I didn’t know I could do that.’ Was it hard? Yeah, it was hard. But guess what? We all did it. It’s a

SHIFT.AR will begin a new 12-week block beginning August 2. Classes are free and offered twice weekly, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 11am – 12:15pm for the spinal cord injury group and 1pm – 2:15pm for the Parkinson’s group. For more information contact ACHE at 479.308.2243, or CrossFit Fort Smith at 479.242.2337.

bit of a confidence builder.

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people

This Patch of Earth words Liesel Schmidt images courtesy Sulphur Springs Truck Patch

F

For Bryan and Meredith Moats of Sulphur Springs Truck

With a background in community and radio work, Meredith

Patch, life isn’t just about claiming their patch of land and

is now currently the co-director of the River Valley Adult

creating their own dream—it’s about enriching that patch

Learning Alliance, an adult education organization that helps

of land, feeding back into the community, and bettering the

adult learners and their families meet self-appointed learning

future all while respecting the past. It’s about sustainability

goals that include obtaining a GED, learning a new language,

and respect for the environment and their fellow man, and it

finding better employment, and helping their children in

all starts with mealworms.

school. Deepening her ties to the community, Meredith volunteers at the McElroy House in addition to serving on the

To be more accurate, there’s more to it than that. And really,

board and helping with the programming there.

it goes back to the days when Meredith was working at Barnes and Noble after college and Bryan traded in the sunny shores

Meanwhile, Bryan is a graphic designer who does freelance

of Hawaii for the green hills of Fayetteville, Arkansas. The two

design, volunteers with the rural fire department, writes

began playing music together, started a band and became close

poetry and is also quite the handyman. On occasion, he still

friends. “Everyone thought we were together, but we weren't,”

does commissioned art pieces and design work.

Meredith recalls. After realizing they needed to be together, they were only engaged four months before marrying. Nineteen

But home life is where it all gets interesting. The parents of twin

years later, the landscape of their lives has changed drastically,

boys and a girl, Meredith and Bryan have a lot to keep them

including the direction of their professional lives.

busy – and then there’s the farm, set on land that has been in DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

people

Meredith’s family since the time of her grandfather. “He was

That note, while cute, is in all actuality the truth. “We have

the man who ran what’s called a ‘truck patch,’ which is a small

a donkey named Jenna and she handles quality control. We

patch of vegetables you can load up in the back of your truck

also have a leopard gecko named Ed, who was given to us by

and take to town to sell,” she notes. Hence the name of their

someone who had rescued him and wanted him to find a good

farm and the resulting business: Sulphur Springs Truck Patch.

home. He’s always on hand to taste test our mealworms. We

But more than a legacy farm, they have created something far

even take fun videos of him ‘reviewing’ our products.”

afield of anything run-of-the-mill…remember the mealworms?

Perhaps it is their creative spirit, or their desire to be connected “We have been gardening for many years and trying to figure

to nature. Or, that their children have given them new

out what works best for us. After a lot of trial and error, we

perspective and a love of whimsy. Whatever it is, the Moats

landed on both an insect and flower farm, and we also grow

family have created a business at their farm that does more

some food for our family. Part of what we grow are mealworms,

than just grow one specific crop. And the mission that drives

which we sell to reptile keepers, wildlife rescue agencies, and

them is something about which they have infinite amounts of

people who keep chickens,” says Meredith, going on to describe

passion. “We believe strongly in taking care of this patch of

the climate-controlled “mealworm farm” consisting of over

land and creating food and flowers that help build and sustain

two hundred growing drawers—a big step up from the three

community,” says Meredith. “We believe it is increasingly

plastic drawers they used when the operation began. “The

important to grow things locally and to support and play

mealworms also produce a waste product called insect frass,

an active role in the local economy. I think COVID made it

which is an excellent fertilizer. We use the frass to transform

abundantly clear that supply lines can be delicate. It only makes

the red clay soil we have here so that it is fertile enough to grow

sense to think about local food.

food and flowers. Additionally, we sell the frass to backyard gardeners and house plant lovers—frass is amazing for house

“Also, as the weather continues to be more volatile and we

plants, and we believe in the importance of building up the

have periods of intense rain and drought, we need to think

soil as a way of caring for the land. We also offer a flower

about innovative forms of farming, including new protein

club subscription, where people pay once a month and pickup

sources,” she continues. “As land prices stay on the rise and is

flowers each week. They can return the Mason jar the flowers

increasingly developed, we also need to think about how we

come in for points which go toward discounts. We also have

are taking care of our resources for generations to come. Our

cards we send with the flowers that give you updates on the

farm model strives to be circular, not linear. We aren’t just

farm, and all our bouquets are ‘donkey approved,’” Meredith

here to have a business. We are here to take care of this land

goes on with a laugh.

and repair and look forward to a better future. Our mealworms

Bryan in Growing Room

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people

are the economic engine of our business, but our mission is to find innovative ways to grow a lot of things in a small, rural space. Insect protein can help supply pet food companies and may someday be used for human consumption—it already is in many other parts of the world. The frass enriches the soil, and flowers help us find joy in uncertain times. It all feeds into each other.”

More than just speaking their mission, they clearly live it. “We strive to take care of this land and share our resources when possible. I think we live out our mission by experimenting and learning, sharing our knowledge, offering accessible and affordable flowers, creating new forms of accessible protein, making sure our dirt remains healthy and ready to grow food, and by thinking about our land not just in terms of our own family, but in its connection to the larger community both past and present,” Meredith says. “We think of everything we do as multi-generational work. We learn alongside our kids, and we involve them in the process, even though sometimes they don’t want to farm. We also honor the work my father and grandfather put into this place and acknowledge how their hard work and dedication allowed us the opportunity to now live here.

"More than that, we are working to try and honor the original owners of this land, the Osage Nation. We believe in supporting the Osage Nation language revitalization school because we think it’s the least we can do to honor this place, this land, and live out our ethics—which we believe give us a responsibility to the people who came before us as well as to the great, great grandkids we’ll never meet.”

In all that they do, the Moats use their work at Truck Patch and as a family to give back: to the Earth, to the community, to the past and the present. It’s an inspiring thing, and to think, it all started with a tiny mealworm.

For more information, visit truck-patch.com.

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taste

PICNIC

PASTA

Recipe adapted kitchensanctuary.com image Kristen Prahl/Shutterstock

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

taste

ingredients • pasta (we like mini farfalle)

for the Italian dressing

• green peas

• ½ cup olive oil

• green onions, sliced

• 3 Tbsp. white wine vinegar

• radishes, cut to bite-sized pieces

• ½ lemon, retain zest and juice

• cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• broccoli, cut to bite-sized pieces

• 1 tsp. sugar

• red and orange bell pepper,

• ½ tsp. dried oregano • 1 tsp. salt

cut to bite-sized pieces • fresh mozzarella (sticks or pearls),

• ¼ tsp. black pepper • 2 Tbsp. fresh parsley

cut to bite-sized pieces

• 1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard

• fresh parsley

method Cook pasta as directed on the box. Drain and rinse well with cold water, place in large serving dish and set aside. In a small bowl, prepare Italian dressing by combining dressing ingredients, stir to combine.

Add peas, green onions, radishes, cherry tomatoes, broccoli, bell peppers, mozzarella, and parsley. Drizzle half the dressing over the top and toss together. Serve with remaining dressing on the side.

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taste

Razzle Dazzle Ice Cream • 2 cups raspberries • ¼ cup sugar • 2 cups heavy whipping cream • 1 - 14 oz. can condensed milk • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

method

Recipe Catherine Frederick Image Kolpakova Svetlana/Shutterstock

ingredients

40

Combine raspberries and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Boil, then let simmer 5-10 minutes. Once thickened, press the berries through a sieve, discard seeds and pulp. Let cool. Beat cream until stiff peaks form. In a medium bowl, combine condensed milk and vanilla, then fold in cream and raspberry puree. Cover tightly, and place in the freezer for at least 6 hours, or overnight, before serving.

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AUGUST 20 ALMA Tickets: skokospac.org

Sponsored by:

EASTON CORBIN Small Town Spirit Big Time Entertainment!

Box Office: 479.632.2129 |

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taste

Minty Melon Recipe adapted creativeculinary.com Image GoncharukMaks/Shutterstock

Please drink responsibly.

Never drink and drive.

ingredients • 2 oz. fresh watermelon juice, plus wedges for garnish • 2 Tablespoons fresh lime juice, plus more limes for garnish • 1 teaspoon agave or simple syrup • 1 ½ ounces vodka • fresh mint - garnish

method Juice watermelon, strain, and discard seeds and pulp. Add vodka, agave (or simple syrup) and lime juice. Stir to combine. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed. Pour over ice-filled glass, garnish with a watermelon wedge, lime slice and mint sprig.

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44

travel

HISTORIC WASHINGTON STATE PARK words courtesy Monica Rued, Arkansas State Parks, and Catherine Frederick IMAGEs courtesy Arkansas State Parks

Historic Washington State Park in southwest Arkansas is well known as a historic village filled with preserved 19th-century homes and buildings. An important stop on the Southwest Trail, James Bowie, Sam Houston, and Davy Crockett famously traveled through here. James Black, a local blacksmith, actually forged the legendary Bowie knife! From 1863-1865, it served as the Confederate capital of Arkansas and the 1874 courthouse now serves as the park visitor center. Discover the blacksmith shop, weapons museum, print museum, and other historic locations that make up the largest collection of 19th-century buildings in the state. Besides these structures, visitors can explore a unique collection of living witnesses to the history of Washington: its many historic and champion trees. The staff are also dressed to fit the period and offer numerous reenactments and demonstrations. When hunger strikes, stop by Williams Tavern Restaurant for some home cooking, Tuesday – Sunday, 11am – 3pm.

Looking to stay in a unique, historic place? The Jailhouse Bed and Breakfast is a renovated jailhouse with modern amenities.

Each of the eight rooms has a private bathroom, WiFi, and satellite TV with continental breakfast served daily. The original jail, a brick, one-story building with four jail cells, was completed in 1873, and housed criminals for offenses such as burglary, forgery, assault, assault with intent to kill, maiming, and seduction. A concrete pillar displays the names of convicts who etched their names into it, and according to the book Ghostly Tales from America’s Jails, 1922 prisoner Isaac Newton Evans haunts the inn to this day. A new two-story jail, completed in 1918 with six jail cells, replaced the old jail and is the one used today as a bed and breakfast.

Historic Washington State Park 103 Franklin Street, Washington, Arkansas 870.983.2684 | arkansasstateparks.com

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46

fiction

“Hayley, what are you doing?”

Hayley’s Comet

I heard a voice yelling at me from behind, nearly drowned out by the rain. It was pouring; hard, driving rain that would send most people running inside. But I’d been standing there for I didn’t know how long, stock still and staring, not even feeling the rain anymore. I was soaked to the bone, my clothes drenched and clinging to me, my hair dripping and plastered to my face and neck. But as hard as the rain fell, I couldn’t seem to move.

words Liesel Schmidt image Triff/Shutterstock

“Hayley?” the voice asked again, nearer this time.

I felt a hand lightly touch my shoulder, and I flinched. Out of my peripheral vision, I could see my best friend, Megan, inching closer. “Sweetie, you’re soaked. Please let me take you home.”

I stared straight ahead and shook my head, still saying nothing.

Part of me was thankful for the rain. It washed away the tears that had been streaming down my face, mixing with them, and making them almost imperceptible. But as much as I cried, I couldn’t seem to make a sound, couldn’t howl, or scream or yell out into the wet dark that surrounded me, standing at the edge of the dock with blackness that stretched out before us under the blanket of night and curtains of rain that blotted out the stars.

S

“Talk to me, love,” she said softly. I could hear it in her voice, knew her well enough to know that she would stand there with me as long as it took.

I felt a shiver ripple through me, and it was as though it finally shook something loose.

“He asked her to marry him,” I said flatly. I blinked away the rain and tears that were clouding my eyes and continued to stare ahead into nothingness.

Nothingness. It was an apt description of what I felt. Like my heart had been ripped from my chest, leaving an empty void of nothingness in its place.

“What?” Meg said, sounding as shocked as I knew she would be. “When?”

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fiction “Tonight. Matt asked her. And she said yes.” I swallowed a fresh

And just like that, he broke the spell and turned his face back

wave of tears. “Of course she did. What else would she say?”

to the sky, looking once more up at the stars. “It’s amazing, isn’t it?”

I followed his gaze. “It is.” There was a heaviness in my soul,

********************

a sadness that came from that something that had slipped “Do you know the story of Cassiopeia?” I asked, hearing the

through my fingers. I could feel tears forming in my eyes as I

hushed tone in my own voice. We were alone, lying on the

stared up at the sky. And then I saw it: a shooting star rocket

dock and staring up at a night sky filled with stars. I could pick

through the heavens.

out only a few constellations tonight, but Cassiopeia was one of them.

“Matt?” I asked, unsure.

I heard Matt shift next to me. “I really don’t know much about

“I saw it, Hayley.”

constellations. But it’s part of Greek mythology, right?”

“I’ve never seen one before,” I whispered, looking over at him.

I nodded and turned my head to look at him. “She was a queen who boasted that she was more beautiful than the sea nymphs.

Matt turned to look at me. “Really?” He smiled. “Then that one

That angered Poseidon, god of the sea. Long story short, when

was meant for you.”

everyone else was elevated to the heavens as stars, she was bound to a chair and placed in the sky upside-down because of her vanity. So, she looks like a wonky W.” ****************** Matt turned to look at me, and the dim light of the moon outlined the curve of his jaw and the slight tip of his mouth as he fought off a smile. “A wonky W, huh? I’ll remember that.”

There was a heat in his eyes that I’d seen before when he looked at me, sending a frisson of warmth through my body. How he could spend time like this with me, this quiet and intimate time between light and dark, day and night, in the magical hours of Neverland was something I didn’t understand. Not when he wasn’t free. Not when he had her.

But I never asked. I didn’t want to know. I just wanted to hold on to the illusion, as dangerous as it might have been. As much

I stared at the night sky and shivered.

Thousands of miles away, I could still see the same stars as home. It never ceased to amaze me that, no matter where someone was, the stars never changed. I wondered if Matt was looking at those stars right now. It had been six months since I’d seen him last.

as I knew I was playing with fire. And as much as I might have been risking my heart. I was keen to the perils. But the fantasy

“Why are you awake, Hayley? Bist du nicht müde?“

was much too sweet.

I looked up to see Stefan, the little boy I’d known since This was one of those moments, those times that I wanted so

childhood, now standing there a man. I was sitting on the roof,

badly for him to cross the line to my side, to reach out and

just outside the window I’d climbed out of. Stefan had found

touch my face, to take me in his arms and kiss me. It was right

me there, probably knowing I would be feeling the jetlag.

there, in his face and in his eyes. Warm brown eyes that held mine and spoke something that he never would.

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47

48

fiction

“No, I’m not tired,” I replied, shaking my head and looking

Stefan thought a moment before replying. “Orion,” he said

back up at the stars.

finally. "Because he is the Jäger.” Stefan scratched his head and searched for a word. “Hunter?”

Stefan followed my gaze.

I nodded.

“The stars, they are bright here, ja?” he asked.

“He is a hunter,” he repeated. “He is strong.”

“They are,” I said. “Much brighter than at home.”

“That’s as good a reason as any,” I said with a smile.

“Do you see that one?” Stefan asked, pointing to a bright spot that seemed to have smeared the sky.

“Mmm.” Stefan nodded, giving me an inscrutable look.

“Yes, I see it.” I nodded.

“What?” I asked, wondering if I had something on my face. I rubbed my nose self-consciously.

“This is not a star. Das ist ein Komet. How you say this in English?” he asked, looking at me unsurely.

“You are strong,” he said matter-of-factly.

“A comet,” I replied with a smile. “Very much the same.” I

I looked at him with a mixture of surprise and dubiousness.

paused and looked back at the sky. “So that’s a comet? Really?

“Me?” I snorted.

I’ve never seen one before.”

“Yes,” he insisted. “You.” “Wirklich? Really? Never?” Stefan’s eyebrows raised in surprise.

“Why do you think that?”

“Really,” I laughed. “But where I live isn’t farmland like this,” I said. “The sky looks much different from here. You can see

Again, he studied me. “Because your heart was broken, and

it better.”

still you look at the world with an open heart.”

Stefan wrinkled his nose in distaste. “I think I wouldn’t like

I felt tears sting my eyes. “What makes you say that?” I asked

this,” he said, shaking his head. “The city is too bright. We can

quietly.

see all the stars here. This is how it should be.”

“Because I see it,” Stefan said simply. “Even if you can’t.”

I smiled and nodded. “True,” I agreed. I studied him for a moment, still amazed at the ways he had changed and yet

I looked away, hoping to stave off the tears I knew would start

hadn’t in all the years since I’d seen him last.

trickling down my face at any moment.

“What is your favorite constellation? I’m not sure how to say

He reached over and caught one just as it reached my cheek.

that auf Deutsch,” I said, feeling shaky on my German.

“Your love will come, Hayley. You will see it, too. Just like der Komet. He is there, you must only know where to look.”

“Konstellation,” he said with a grin. “Es is das gleiche. It’s the same.”

I looked back at him, smiling fondly at me, and I knew somehow that he was right. It would come—my comet.

“So?” I prompted. “Which is your favorite?”

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Back to School Ready?

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Whether your student is entering school for the first time, or headed off to college, our team of Do South ® experts is here to help. You’ll discover after-school activities, expert health, mental, dental and eyecare, trendy apparel and accessories, a back-to-school bash with free haircuts, shoes, even a Blessing of the Backpacks for kids and teachers returning to the classroom!

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Arkansas Colleges of Health Education (ACHE) is a private, not-for-profit institution located on 542 acres in Fort Smith, Arkansas. ACHE’s programs include the Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine (ARCOM), ACHE School of Physical Therapy (ACHE PT), ACHE School of Occupational Therapy (ACHE OT), and the Master of Science in Biomedicine (MSB).

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1500 Dodson Avenue, Suite 260-A Fort Smith, Arkansas 479.709.7337 baptist-health.com

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7000 Chad Colley Boulevard Fort Smith, Arkansas 479.308.2243 achehealth.edu

Whether your children need newborn care, back-to-school vaccinations, or physicals, Baptist Health Pediatric Clinic located at 1500 Dodson Avenue, Suite 260-A, in Fort Smith has you covered. Dr. Raelene Mapes and her team also treat illnesses and injuries for children of all ages. For Dr. Mapes, the most rewarding part of her career is getting the opportunity to watch her patients grow up. By having a long-term history with a pediatrician, you’ll get insight into your children’s development and will be able to better detect emerging problems, such as changes in academic or emotional status. For more about Dr. Mapes and the services she provides, call 479.709.7337 or visit Baptist-Health.com.

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409 Main Street, Van Buren, Arkansas 479.410.4756 shopcamilleandco.com

200 North 15th Street, Fort Smith, Arkansas 479.782.5068 fsfumc.org

Camille & Co is a friendly boutique located in Van Buren,

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families, and seniors. Check us out online or in person. We'd love to be your church home!

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5912 South 28th Street, Fort Smith, Arkansas 479.646.1616 flamefs.com Founded in 1985 Flame Gymnastics Academy has been owned and operated by the Beam family since 1995.

Emphasis is on maintaining a fun and supportive atmosphere for all their students regardless of age or skill level. Flame’s professional staff have over 300 years of combined gymnastics teaching experience and are recognized for producing gymnasts competitive on a state and regional level through the USA Gymnastics Junior Olympic Program.

Flame has been voted “Best of the Best” for gymnastics in the River Valley for five straight years. Classes in gymnastics and tumbling are offered year-round and swim lessons for ages 9 months through 12 years are offered during the

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months of June and July. Contact us today!

3205 Jenny Lind Rd, Fort Smith, Arkansas 479.785.2501 fortsmithschools.org Fort Smith Public Schools, a premier district where innovation creates excellence, is dedicated to providing an equitable, challenging educational experience by engaging families and community partners as we prepare students to embrace their roles in our culturally diverse community and rapidly changing world. We are building a culture of excellence in our district that demands high expectations in all aspects of our work, in all of our buildings, and for every child who attends our schools, as well as for every adult who supports these children.

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4300 Rogers Avenue, Suite 32 Fort Smith, Arkansas 479.420.4008 hummingbird-boutique-fort-smith.myshopify.com

Future School of Fort Smith (Future School) envisions a future

Hummingbird is a unique boutique offering home décor,

where each student graduates equipped with the tools to

gifts, and clothing for all ages! Founded and operated

succeed and enthusiastic about their future due to their time

by a local mother-daughter duo, we’ve curated beautiful

spent at the school. We prioritize a learning environment

and unique items waiting for you to explore. Nothing

that is open, inclusive, relationship-centered, and focused on

makes us happier than moms, daughters, grandmothers,

student success. With a small advisor-to-student ratio, our

and granddaughters shopping together at Hummingbird!

educators/mentors guide students through the process of

Inside, you will find clothing, décor, candles, journals,

identifying interests, connecting with potential internships,

books, religious items, inspirational gifts, jewelry, and

and envisioning their plans upon graduation. Future School

more!

strives to earn its reputation as an innovative and impactful

peaceful shopping experience, and our safe and close

leader in education in Arkansas through its combination of

parking. We also offer complimentary gift wrapping and

personalized learning plans, internship network, concurrent

a website to browse and purchase online. Since opening,

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we’ve quadrupled our inventory—so you’re sure to find

businesses and the Fort Smith community.

something for everyone!

Customers

compliment

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inviting

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622 North 7th Street Fort Smith, Arkansas 479.431.8695 fsfuture.org

interior,

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420 North Main St. Greenwood, Arkansas 479.996.4142 greenwoodk12.com Greenwood Public Schools is committed to Excellence in Education inside and outside of the classroom. With over $9.4 million in scholarships earned by the Class of 2022 and 17 state championships in various sports over the past five years, our educators and students demonstrate the “heart of the Bulldog” daily. Greenwood School District is made up of 3,800 students in grades PK-12 on six main campuses: East Pointe Elementary, Westwood Elementary, East Hills Middle School, Greenwood Junior High, Greenwood Freshman Center, and Greenwood High School. A new elementary school is projected to open in Chaffee Crossing by 2025! Follow our Excellence in Education at www.greenwoodk12.com or on Facebook at Greenwood School District.

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Suffering from Eczema?

To learn about a study, email study@johnsondermatology.com or call (479) 649-3376

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You have brains in your head.

You have feet in your shoes.

You can steer yourself any direction you choose.

3112 Cavanaugh Road, Fort Smith, Arkansas 479.649.3542 kswoftherivervalley.com Our mission is to provide the public with a safe, positive facility to grow stronger and learn to succeed in all walks of life through the practice of traditional Korean martial arts. Taught in a group environment, we pride ourselves in providing individual attention from highly qualified instructors, making us the premier academy for martial arts training in the Fort Smith River Valley and other surrounding areas including Oklahoma. At Kuk Sool Won of the River Valley, you and your

Dr. Seuss

family can learn a unique system of self-defense, increase your physical fitness, and enjoy an activity that promotes longevity, discipline, and personal development. Best of the

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Best four years running!

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344 Fayetteville Avenue, Alma, Arkansas 479.632.4600 2010 Chestnut Street, Van Buren, Arkansas 479.471.9600

5004 South U Street, Fort Smith, Arkansas 479.345.8336 teentherapyservices.com River Valley Teen Center supports tweens’ and teens’ emotional development, so they learn healthy ways of interacting with family, friends and peers. We help heal any hurts and work to repair misguided beliefs such as “I have

and therapy provider. Throughout the year, your child can

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receive therapy services, which include ABA, occupational,

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counseling, group therapy, and peer resources, helping

transportation, breakfast, lunch, and a snack, and a full

to make sense of this challenging, confusing, and often–

preschool curriculum! Medicaid is accepted! Contact us

overwhelming phase of life. River Valley Teen Center also

today to get started.

gives moms and dads a hand by providing guidance and empathy to a teen who’s struggling. Our caring and skilled therapists teach parents how to support and nurture their teenager while leaving the chaos behind.

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Pediatrics Plus is a YEAR-LONG developmental preschool

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2221 Pointer Trail East, Van Buren, Arkansas 479.474.7942 vbsd.us

We provide the best in eye health and wellness care

The Van Buren School District is thrilled to welcome back

with

state-of-the-art

its students and staff for the 2022-2023 school year! We

instrumentation! Many eye and vision problems do not have

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invest in your child. Our District offers STEM at every grade

routine eye exam, which is why regular exams are important!

level, access to innovative agriculture programs, and online

We also detect and treat eye injuries, diseases that affect

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partners with universities to help students earn certifications

fittings with lenses available for astigmatism, multifocal,

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love new patients, you’ll see!

more! #PointerPride

trained,

experienced

staff

and

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Dr. Steven Stiles & Dr. Camille Friday 2401 S. Waldron Road, Fort Smith, Arkansas 479.452.2020 stileseyegroup.com

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S H O P AT AU T H O R I Z E D H E A R T S O N F I R E R E TA I L E R S O R H E A R T S O N F I R E .C O M

Read Chair Publishing, LLC 4300 Rogers Avenue, Suite 20-110 Fort Smith, AR 72903

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