Discover over 1,250 sq. ft. of modern comfort featuring three bedrooms, two baths, an oversized garage, and an open-concept design. Relax on your private covered patio and enjoy community perks including a gated entrance, pickleball court, and pavilion. Conveniently located near top-rated schools, trails, dining, and shopping— everything you need, right where you want to be. Style. Comfort. Convenience. Yours.
JANUARY
JJanuary always feels like an open door; a chance to breathe a little deeper and reconnect with the things that make us feel grounded. As I pored over this month’s stories, I recognized a common thread: the way we’re shaped by the outdoors, by memory, and by the places that hold us.
From the quiet beauty of Arkansas trails to the thrill of a father and son riding deep into the Ozarks, this month's stories remind us how much adventure lives in our own backyard. Even simple winter moments like stepping outside for fresh air, finding calm in nature, or exploring a new corner of the state can nudge us toward feeling more alive, more ourselves.
That sense of connection carries over into everything else this issue celebrates. Our annual Health & Wellness Guide highlights the providers who keep our community strong, offering insight into everything from preventive care and menopause support to functional wellness, family medicine, and self-care.
Our Profiles in Education echoes that same spirit. We are proud to highlight the schools in our region shaping our children, each offering its own approach to curiosity, confidence, and community.
This month also brings a story that lingers long after the last page. Elizabeth Newman leads us into the difficult terrain of memory and loss as she revisits the tragedy that defined her childhood and the unanswered questions surrounding it.
Before we move too far into 2026, I also want to share a heartfelt thank you to our 25 Days of Christmas sponsors: Kelly Co. Travel, BHC Insurance, Fort Smith ER, CMC Asset Management, and to you. Thousands joined us on our socials each day, and your enthusiasm made December feel even more magical.
Here’s to fresh air, fresh starts, and the many ways Arkansas keeps us rooted, inspired, and moving forward. I’m grateful to begin another year with you.
JANUARY 2026
OWNER
PUBLISHER - EDITOR
Catherine Frederick
COPY EDITING
Charity Chambers
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Jessica Meadors
Meadors Creative Co.
PHOTOGRAPHY
Davis Norwood
Matt Johnsgard
CONTRIBUTING
WRITERS
Marla Cantrell, Catherine Frederick, Dwain Hebda, Bob Robinson, Allen Schiegle, Allen Schaidle, Dr. Kendall Wagner
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Catherine Frederick
479.782.1500
catherine@dosouthmagazine.com
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JANUARY EVENTS
JANUARY 5, 6-8P / ARTSONMAINVB.COM
CULINARY CLASS: MASTERING
MEDITERRANEAN CUISINE
Arts on Main, Van Buren
JANUARY 7, 8A / CHRISTMASHONORS.ORG
CHRISTMAS HONORS
WREATH PICK-UP
Fort Smith National Cemetery
JANUARY 10, 10:30A-1:30P / ARTSONMAINVB.COM
CULINARY CLASS:
BREAD AND BATTER
Arts on Main, Van Buren
JANUARY 15, 6P / SIMMONSBANKARENA.COM
JASON ALDEAN
FULL THROTTLE TOUR
Simmons Bank Arena, North Little Rock
JANUARY 15-18 / OZARKMOUNTAINMUSICFESTIVAL.COM
OZARK MOUNTAIN MUSIC FESTIVAL
Downtown, Eureka Springs
JANUARY 16-18 / WALTONARTSCENTER.ORG
MEREDITH WILLSON'S THE MUSIC MAN
Walton Arts Center, Fayetteville
JANUARY 17, 7:30P / SKOKOSPAC.ORG THE ISAACS WITH JASON CRABB
Skokos Performing Arts Center, Alma
JANUARY 20, 6-8P / ARTSONMAINVB.COM
CULINARY CLASS:
SOUPS AND SAUCES
Arts on Main, Van Buren
JANUARY 21, 7P / WALTONARTSCENTER.ORG GERMAN CORNEJO'S TANGO AFTER DARK
Walton Arts Center, Fayetteville
JANUARY 23, 8P / WALTONARTSCENTER.ORG
RICHARD THOMAS
IN MARK TWAIN TONIGHT!
Walton Arts Center, Fayetteville
JANUARY 24, 3P / SIMMONSBANKARENA.COM THE HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS 100 YEAR TOUR
Simmons Bank Arena, North Little Rock
JANUARY 26-27 / FORTSMITHJUNIORS.COM BATTLE OF THE FORT VOLLEYBALL TOURNAMENT
Fort Smith Convention Center
JANUARY 27, 7P / WALTONARTSCENTER.ORG THE CHOIR OF MAN
Walton Arts Center, Fayetteville
JANUARY 29, 7P / WALTONARTSCENTER.ORG
MANDY PATINKIN IN CONCERT: JUKEBOX WITH ADAM BEN-DAVID ON PIANO
Walton Arts Center, Fayetteville
JANUARY 29, 7P / SKOKOSPAC.ORG WIND IN THE WILLOWS
Skokos Performing Arts Center, Alma
JANUARY 31, 7:30P / WALTONARTSCENTER.ORG
SONA: ACROSS THE SILK ROAD SCHEHERAZADE
Walton Arts Center, Fayetteville
Submit events online at dosouthmagazine.com/calendar-of-events/.
ACHE RESEARCH INSTITUTE HEALTH AND WELLNESS CENTER
– FORT SMITH
Class times, ages, and registration, visit: WELLNESSCENTERCLASSES.AS.ME CERAMICS & ART
Jan. 12 & 27: HH, Open Studio
Jan. 23: Adult Wheel Class A dult
CODING AND COMPUTER CLASSES
Homeschool STEM: Wed & Thur.
Jan. 6, 13, 20: Remake Broken Parts Series Remak e Broken Parts Series
COOKING & NUTRITION
Jan. 14: Diabetic Lunch & Learn
Jan. 28: Renal Lunch & Learn
FITNESS & DANCE
Barre: Mon.-Thur. M on.-Thur.
Strength & Tone: Sat.
Yoga: Mon./Wed./Fri. M on./Wed./Fri.
Evening Stretch: Wed.
Moving w/ Parkinson’s: Wed. M oving
Adult Ballet: Tues./Thurs. A dult
Kids Beg. Ballet II: Tues./Thurs. Bal let II: Tues./Thurs.
Kids with DanceAbility: Tues. Kids with DanceA bility: HYDROPONIC GARDENING
To Jan. 11: Oluwatobi Adewumi & Liz Whitney Quisgard
To Feb. 1: Panama Middle-High School
To Feb. 8: Michael Warrick
Jan. 17 to May 10: Ozark Regionalists & John Bell, Jr.
UAFS ATHLETICS
UAFORTSMITHLIONS.COM
WOMEN’S & MEN’S BASKETBALL
Jan. 1: Pittsburg State, 1:30p / 3:30p
Jan. 3: Missouri Southern, 1:30p / 3:30p
Jan. 16: Northeastern State, 5:30p / 7:30p
Jan. 22: Newman, 5:30p / 7:30p
Jan. 24: Emporia State, 1p / 3p
BASEBALL
Jan. 30-31: Southeastern
Oklahoma State, TBD Ok lahoma
The Heart of Fika
FINDING CONNECTION IN THE PAUSE
words
DO SOUTH // image DEPIANO SHUTTERSTOCK
There is a Swedish word that does not translate neatly into English, although most of us have felt what it describes. Fika (pronounced fee-kah) is often described as a “coffee break,” but that simple phrase misses its deeper meaning. In Sweden, fika is a cherished ritual, an intentional pause in the day to enjoy something warm, something sweet, and most importantly, someone’s company.
At its heart, fika is less about caffeine and more about connection. It is the act of stepping away from the rush, settling in for a few unrushed minutes, and sharing conversation with friends, coworkers, or even strangers. Coffee or tea is typically involved, along with a small treat, but the real purpose is presence. Fika encourages us to slow down, savor the moment, and nurture relationships in the simplest of ways.
In workplaces across Sweden, the day naturally bends around fika. Mornings and afternoons include a communal break, a time to gather, chat, recharge, and remember that productivity is not the only measure of a good day. Families and friends embrace the ritual at home as well. It is a cultural practice built on the belief that life is richer when we make time for one another.
Here in the River Valley, Bookish has embraced that tradition. Under the leadership of new owner Kristin Tardif, the bookstore launched Fika Fridays in December, offering a weekly invitation to pause, sip, and connect inside their warm, welcoming space. Each Friday from 2 to 4 p.m., guests are encouraged to drop in for coffee, light refreshments, good company, and the kind of quiet joy that only an independently owned bookstore can offer.
Bookish has long been a gathering place for readers and creative spirits. Fika Fridays deepen that sense of community, transforming an ordinary afternoon into a shared ritual that feels both grounding and uplifting.
In a season when routines reset and schedules grow full again, fika offers something we all need: a moment to breathe. It is a chance to slow down, enjoy a warm cup, meet a neighbor, or simply sit with a book and a cookie. It is a gentle reminder that connection does not have to be complicated; sometimes it is as simple as showing up.
And thanks to the team at Bookish, that tradition now belongs to all of us.
Bookish is located at 63 S. 6th Street in Fort Smith, at the Bakery District downtown. Call 479.434.8631 or visit online at bookishfs.com.
UAFS Toy Toss
Colleen Nick, The Morgan Nick Foundation
Fort Smith Coffee Co., Bakery District
C. King Tropicals
Gov. Sanders, Riley Green, AGFC
Enjoy incredible student performances this fall! Reserve your seat at uafs.universitytickets.com.
The Enchanted Pig
7 p.m. • Friday-Saturday Feb. 6-7
Rhinoceros
7 p.m.
Thursday-Saturday March 19-21
Wind Ensemble
7 p.m. • Tuesday, April 7
Jazz Catz
7 p.m. • Tuesday, April 14
Jazz Band
7 p.m. • Thursday, April 16
For showtimes and ticket information, scan the QR code or visit uafs.edu/season
UAFS athletics
Women and Men’s Basketball
Jan. 1 vs Pittsburg State
Jan. 3 vs Missouri Southern
Jan. 16 vs Northeastern State
Jan. 22 vs Newman
Jan. 24 vs Emporia State
Baseball
Jan. 30-31 vs SE Oklahoma State
Feb. 1 vs SE Oklahoma State
Feb. 20-22 vs Emporia State
For game times and ticket information, scan the QR code or visit uafslions.com
WINTER SKIN RESCUE
HydraFacial MD Deep cleansing + intense hydration + targeted boosters.
SkinPen Microneedling Smooth, even skin tone, improved scarring, minimal downtime.
Opening Doors Through Literacy
Crawford County Volunteers for Literacy (CCVL) strengthens the lives of adults and families through free, individualized literacy instruction that builds confidence, independence, and opportunity. Since 1987, the organization has helped learners of all backgrounds gain the reading, writing, math, and digital skills they need to support their families, achieve personal goals, and open doors to a brighter future.
What does instruction look like at CCVL, and which programs are most in demand?
Every learner who walks through our doors receives an individualized learning plan based on their goals, skill level, and comfort. Some begin with one-on-one reading support using structured literacy methods, while others attend small-group English classes or prepare for an Arkansas High School Diploma. Our highest demand continues to be basic literacy instruction and adult diploma preparation.
How does improved literacy change someone’s life?
Literacy opens doors most take for granted. It affects the jobs someone can apply for, their confidence filling out forms, and their ability to read mail without anxiety. Parents often tell us they feel more engaged at home, more connected to their children, and more hopeful about the future.
Is there a success story that reflects your impact?
One learner came to us after years of instability, addiction, and homelessness. When asked about his goals, he said he wanted to learn to read so he could read his children a bedtime story. He wasn’t focused on career advancement or financial gain; he simply wanted to share a moment of closeness with his kids. He showed up consistently, worked steadily, and began building the skills he never had the chance to learn before. Literacy is more than an academic skill, it is connection, dignity, and hope.
Who qualifies for free tutoring services?
Any adult who wants to learn. There are no income restrictions, placement requirements, or fees. Learners can work on reading, writing, math, English language learning, digital skills, or diploma preparation. We offer flexible scheduling and virtual options because adults often assume they’re “too
far behind” or too busy to return to learning. They aren’t. If someone is brave enough to ask for help, we meet them with encouragement and respect.
Tell us about your annual Read Between the Wines fundraiser.
This event ensures that CCVL remains free for every learner. State funding and grants help, but they do not cover all the materials, training, and individualized instruction our learners depend on. Sponsors, donors, and attendees directly fund the one-on-one tutoring that changes lives. Community members can support CCVL by sponsoring the event, donating auction items, purchasing tables, becoming volunteer tutors, or giving monthly.
GOODS THE
Jewelry that sparkles, home décor that refreshes, spirits that celebrate any occasion, and wellness essentials to help you feel your best. Kick off the New Year with something special from a few of our favorite local shops.
1. HEARTS ON FIRE The Vela Crossover Pendant is a modern classic that sparkles from every angle. JOHN MAYS JEWELERS
2. BUBBLY DELIGHT Light, lively, and ready to celebrate, these selections make any gathering feel special. IN GOOD SPIRITS
3. KETTLE’S ON A kitchen staple, MacKenzie-Childs enamel kettles blend timeless charm with signature hand-painted style. BLACK BISON CO.
4. SIMPLE BEAUTY A beautiful Meera decorative accent to add classic pattern and traditional flair to any space. MEREGOLD
5. WINTER ESSENTIALS Thoughtful skincare to elevate daily routines and support a healthy glow. ASPIRE AESTHETICS & WELLNESS
6. FLAVOR EXPLOSION Delicious sips that will fill your bar with unique flavors. SODIE’S WINE & SPIRITS
YOUR WINTER BODY
THE SURPRISING SCIENCE BEHIND PAIN, FATIGUE, AND FOCUS
words DR. KENDALL WAGNER
As winter settles in, many of us notice familiar patterns: joints that ache more than usual, headaches that strike out of nowhere, and a sluggishness that seeps into even the brightest days. It is easy to dismiss these shifts as part of the season, but there is more happening beneath the surface. Winter reshapes how our bodies function, influencing everything from blood flow to brain chemistry. Understanding why these changes happen, and what we can do about them, can make the season feel far more manageable, even for those who would rather hibernate until spring.
STIFF,
ACHY
JOINTS
are common complaints during winter months. People often assume cold air is simply bad for arthritis, but the science is more nuanced. As temperatures drop, barometric pressure drops with it, creating subtle changes in the surrounding air that affect our tissues. Lower pressure allows tendons and ligaments to expand slightly, enough to spark discomfort in already sensitive joints. At the same time, cold weather tightens muscles and slows circulation, which makes movement feel harder. Even people without chronic issues often feel more stiffness in the mornings because the body must work a bit harder to warm up, allowing fluid to move through the joints. Winter truly is the season when your body resists you a little more than usual.
MIGRAINES AND HEADACHES also tend to spike during the colder months. Dry indoor heat pulls moisture from the air, which leads to faster dehydration, a common but often overlooked trigger for headaches. Stepping from a warm house into icy air forces the blood vessels in the head and neck to constrict and then expand again, another recipe for pain. For some, bright winter sun reflecting off snow or even the glare of an overcast day can strain the eyes. Shorter days also mean more hours indoors with screens and artificial lighting. These factors combine to create strong conditions for a mid-winter migraine.
BLOOD PRESSURE is another area where winter has a greater influence than many people realize. Studies consistently show that readings rise in colder weather. When temperatures fall, blood vessels narrow to conserve heat, increasing the force needed to push blood through them. The effect may be mild in healthy individuals but more significant for those with hypertension. Seasonal habits can amplify the issue. Heavier comfort foods, reduced activity, disrupted sleep, lingering holiday stress, and lower vitamin D levels all contribute to higher readings. It becomes a layered pattern throughout the winter months, quiet enough to go unnoticed but common enough that many doctors see it every year.
FATIGUE AND TROUBLE CONCENTRATING
round out the common winter complaints. Shorter daylight hours disrupt the body’s natural rhythms, which leads to increased melatonin production and a heavier sense of sleepiness, even after a full night of rest. Winter also tends to reduce overall activity, and movement is one of the primary ways we support circulation and mental clarity. Less sunlight and less motion create a noticeable dip in energy. Add the emotional comedown after the holidays, the shift from celebration to quieter routines, and late winter can feel like pushing through molasses.
ON THE BRIGHT SIDE
our bodies respond quickly to small adjustments. Gentle movement throughout the day, including short walks, light stretching, or a few minutes of simple stretching before bed, helps ease joint stiffness and improve circulation. Staying consistently hydrated can make a meaningful difference in headache frequency, especially in homes and offices with strong indoor heat. A regular sleep schedule also helps steady the hormones that regulate energy and mood, and even a few minutes of natural early morning sunlight can anchor your internal clock.
Food becomes a powerful winter ally as well. Colorful produce, lean proteins, and healthy fats support circulation, reduce inflammation, and help stabilize energy levels. Winter naturally offers foods that fit this pattern, including roasted sweet potatoes, kale, citrus fruits, hearty vegetable soups, and bean stews. These meals create balance after the heavier dishes that tend to dominate holiday tables and the weeks that follow.
The most encouraging truth is that these winter effects do not mean something is wrong with your body. It is simply adapting. Cold weather, darker days, and dry air place real demands on our internal systems. When we understand those shifts, they feel less mysterious and far easier to manage. Winter may always influence how we feel, but it does not have to define our well-being.
5 FACTS ABOUT WINTER HEALTH
10 POINTS
AVERAGE INCREASE IN SYSTOLIC BLOOD PRESSURE DURING WINTER.
Source: American Heart Association
20% HUMIDITY
Typical indoor humidity level in winter, leading to dehydration and headaches.
Source: Environmental Protection Agency
30% MORE
INCREASE IN DAYTIME SLEEPINESS DUE TO REDUCED DAYLIGHT AND ELEVATED MELATONIN LEVELS.
Source: Sleep Foundation
15–20% DROP
REDUCTION IN PHYSICAL ACTIVITY DURING WINTER LEADING TO JOINT STIFFNESS AND CIRCULATION ISSUES.
Source: Journal of Physical Activity & Health
1–2% LOSS
AMOUNT OF BODY WATER LOSS NEEDED TO TRIGGER HEADACHES AND COGNITIVE FOG.
Source: National Institutes of Health
A Time for Renewal
words DO SOUTH // image MONARCH 61
Monarch 61 exists to help women and girls root, rise, and thrive by strengthening resilience, reclaiming voice, and breaking cycles of harm through art, wellness, coaching, and emotional health education. That mission naturally expanded into OASIS, an emotional health conference created for the professionals who carry so much of the region’s care.
Executive Director Nicole Watson, RN, SANE, shares how OASIS grew from the understanding that those who give the most often neglect their own well-being. “Caring professionals, whether nurses, social workers, counselors, educators, or nonprofit and business leaders, pour so much into others that their emotional health can easily be overlooked,” she explains. “Emotionally healthy professionals create emotionally healthy communities. OASIS felt like the next right step.”
The inaugural 2025 conference proved just how needed that space is. Monarch 61 planned for 100 attendees and welcomed 145. Nearly 90 percent found the topics highly relevant, and almost 98 percent said the event met or exceeded expectations. More than 84 percent left with new strategies they could use in their work. One participant called it “one of the best conferences I have ever attended,” while another, a medically retired police investigator, shared that attending something like OASIS earlier in her career might have changed her trajectory.
As Monarch 61 prepares for 2026, the conference is expanding into a two-day experience with the theme Emotional Authenticity: The New Standard for Strength . The longer format allows for deeper breakout sessions, added wellness offerings, and more space for connection and resources. The goal is to welcome 200 or more caring professionals from across Arkansas and equip them with practical tools that create real change.
Participants can expect techniques they can apply immediately, including ways to regulate stress, support the nervous system, strengthen boundaries, and create sustainable rhythms of rest and recovery. “We want leaders to discover what it feels like to move from a grounded, present place rather than performance or perfection,” Nicole says. “Most of all, we want them to leave with permission to prioritize their own well-being.”
OASIS also strengthens the larger mission of Monarch 61 by supporting the professionals who serve women and girls throughout the River Valley. By investing in those who teach, advocate, counsel, and care, the organization helps create healthier workplaces, stronger organizations, and safer communities.
“When caring professionals walk into OASIS, we want them to feel seen, supported, and inspired,” Nicole says. “And long after the conference ends, we want them to remember they deserve space to breathe.”
Profiles in EDUCATION
Education shapes who we become, not only through academics, but through the environments that nurture confidence, creativity, and resilience. Every school has its own way of inspiring students, and every classroom holds the potential to spark curiosity that lasts a lifetime.
This year’s Profiles in Education celebrates the people and programs devoted to guiding young learners toward their full potential. Inside, you’ll meet educators who create spaces where students feel seen, encouraged, and challenged in meaningful ways. Their approaches may differ, but their mission is shared: to support each child’s growth with intention, heart, and unwavering commitment.
1 st LUTHERAN SCHOOL
For more than 170 years, 1st Lutheran School has provided a nurturing, faith-rooted learning environment where children grow academically, emotionally, and spiritually. With small classes, dedicated teachers, and a welcoming family culture, the school offers a strong foundation for students from early childhood through fifth grade.
FAST FACTS
Enrollment: 144
Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1
Specialty Programs: 5th Grade Band, Resource Program
Extracurriculars: Basketball, Majorettes, Running Club, Board Game Club
Accolades: Purple Star School, NLSA Accreditation, GROW Grant Recipient; Excellence in Standardized Testing (2024)
CONTACT
479.452.5330 | 1stlutheran.com 2407 Massard Road, Fort Smith
HOW DOES YOUR SCHOOL’S MISSION GUIDE THE ACADEMIC AND CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT OF YOUR STUDENTS?
Our mission is anchored in three pillars—Christ-centered, family-focused, and student-driven—and they shape every part of school life. We want families to feel Christ at the heart of both learning and play, and we welcome parents as true partners through chapel, classroom involvement, and our Panther PTO. Because we are student-driven, we focus on equipping each learner through strong academics, personal attention, and opportunities that help them grow in confidence and purpose.
WHAT CLASSROOM PRACTICES OR PROGRAMS BEST SUPPORT INDIVIDUALIZED LEARNING AT 1ST LUTHERAN?
Students learn best when they feel seen, supported, and truly known by their teachers. Our small class sizes allow educators to build strong relationships and provide the personal attention each child needs to thrive. Because teachers understand their students well, they can quickly recognize when extra support or enrichment is needed and adjust instruction accordingly. We also offer a dedicated resource program for students who benefit from additional guidance. Through one-on-one or small-group instruction, this program helps strengthen key skills, reinforce classroom learning, and ensure every student can reach their full academic potential.
FORT SMITH PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Built on a culture of excellence, Fort Smith Public Schools has long provided challenging academic instruction in a caring, safe, and nurturing environment. The district is committed to excellence beyond the classroom, ensuring students have the resources they need to succeed in every area of life. Whether in the classroom, on the field, on stage, or in the community, FSPS strives to bring out the best in every student and prepare them to become responsible, engaged citizens. More than a district, Fort Smith Public Schools represents a legacy of opportunity, growth, and achievement for families across the River Valley.
FAST FACTS
Enrollment: 13,000+
Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1
Special Programs: Health Sciences Academy (Darby Middle School), Emerging Art & Design (Peak Innovation Center), Computer Science Academy (Chaffin Middle School)
Planned: Global Innovation Academy (Bonneville Elementary)
CONTACT
fortsmithschools.org | 479.785.2501
3205 Jenny Lind Road, Fort Smith
WHAT UNIQUE ACADEMIC, CAREER, OR EXTRACURRICULAR PATHWAYS MAKE YOUR DISTRICT STAND OUT?
We offer a variety of pathways that help students discover and develop their talents. In elementary, students can join competitive robotics teams that frequently advance to state and national competitions.
At Darby Middle School’s Health Sciences Academy, students gain hands-on health care experience through partnerships with Mercy and Baptist Health. Next year, Chaffin Middle School will launch a Computer Science Academy for sixth-grade students, offering early exposure to coding, robotics, and digital design. FSPS high school students can earn a free associate’s degree through the Peak Innovation Center. Peak also offers the Emerging Art & Design program, an exclusive opportunity available only to FSPS students.
These specialty programs encourage students to explore their passions, build future-ready skills, and chart a path toward long-term success.
Fort Smith Public Schools
HOLLYHOCK MONTESSORI
Hollyhock Montessori is a small, nonprofit school serving children ages 3–6 in a single, mixed-age classroom. Our program offers a thoughtful, connected early learning experience that nurtures the whole child: socially, academically, creatively, and emotionally. Degreed and certified teachers foster curiosity and independence, and our intentionally small community supports strong relationships with children and families. We partner closely with parents to guide early development, and we accept state preschool and kindergarten vouchers to make our program accessible to more families.
FAST FACTS
Enrollment: 24
Student/Teacher Ratio: 8:1
Special Programs:
Preschool & Kindergarten EFA and Childcare Vouchers Accepted
CONTACT
479.755.8172 | hollyhockmontessori.org
616 S. 17th Street, Fort Smith
WHAT MAKES YOUR LEARNING ENVIRONMENT DIFFERENT FROM A TRADITIONAL EARLY CHILDHOOD OR ELEMENTARY SCHOOL SETTING?
We offer something truly unique in this area. First, we specialize in one developmental stage, allowing us to do one thing very well. Second, we blend the child-led, interest-rich learning families love about homeschooling with the benefits of a community: peers, trained teachers, and a strong, research-backed foundation for future academics. And because we remain intentionally small, our learning environment stays connected and deeply intentional.
WHAT DOES A TYPICAL DAY LOOK LIKE FOR STUDENTS ENGAGING IN SELF-PACED, HANDS-ON WORK?
Our classroom functions like a learning laboratory. Teachers closely observe, assess needs, and prepare work to meet those needs. On any given day, one child is counting a chain of 100 beads, another writing a story, and a third making a necklace for his mom. An older child might show a younger friend how to clean their face after snack while two friends play a sound game. We place a strong emphasis on creating. Children sew, craft, build, paint, and design every day.
VAN BUREN SCHOOL DISTRICT
The Van Buren School District seeks to empower every student by providing a supportive learning environment that inspires academic excellence, personal growth, and a lifelong passion for learning. By fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration, VBSD prepares students to become responsible, engaged, and successful members of the Van Buren community and beyond. Educators nurture critical thinking, creativity, and resilience, ensuring each student is equipped to thrive in an ever-changing world. Together, the district strives for Pointer Excellence—setting the standard for achievement, leadership, and community pride. Follow @VBSDPointers on social media or visit the district website to stay informed on all Pointer Nation news and events.
BY THE NUMBERS
Enrollment: 5,577
Student/Teacher Ratio: 14:1
Graduation Rate: 89%
SPECIAL PROGRAMS
River Valley Virtual Academy
Gifted & Talented Education
ALE/HUB
Advanced Placement Courses
Concurrent Credit with ATU, ATU–Ozark, and UAFS WATC Pointer Greens Aquaponic Garden
ACCOLADES
Purple Star District, Arkansas Council for Military Families
Best Public School System, Best of River Valley (2023, 2024, 2025)
Top Public School, The Official Community’s Choice Awards 2025
ASBA 2025 Excellence in Leadership Award
CONTACT
479.474.7942 | vbsd.us
2221 Pointer Trail East, Van Buren
HOW DOES VBSD SUPPORT WELLNESS, SUSTAINABILITY, AND STRONG COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS?
VBSD operates numerous programs that promote wellness and sustainability across the district. Launched in 2024, the Pointer Greens Aquaponic Garden supplies cafeterias with organic lettuce and fresh fish, while also generating revenue and creating hands-on learning opportunities. Several campuses maintain thriving gardens of their own, including the Van Buren Freshman Academy’s expansive greenhouse used for agricultural studies.
Walking trails and outdoor fitness stations at multiple schools encourage both student and community wellness. Funded through Joint Use Agreement grants totaling more than $714,000, these spaces help strengthen connections between local neighborhoods and schools.
Community support is a hallmark of Pointer Nation. The Van Buren Education Foundation has invested more than $1.26 million in grants for field trips, technology, and enrichment programs such as Fifth Grade Camp. PTAs, booster clubs, local businesses, and the Van Buren Chamber of Commerce all contribute year-round support. The district also assists families through its IMPACT Meals initiative, which provides groceries during extended holiday breaks to help address food insecurity.
HOW DOES VAN BUREN HIGH SCHOOL PREPARE STUDENTS FOR COLLEGE, CAREERS, AND LIFE AFTER GRADUATION?
Van Buren High School promotes college and career readiness through a wide range of rigorous academic offerings. Students can take Advanced Placement and concurrent credit classes, earning college hours before graduation through partnerships with regional universities. These opportunities are provided at little or no cost, saving families significant time and tuition expenses.
The district also offers specialized career pathways in high-demand fields such as engineering, health sciences, and technology. Students can earn industry-recognized certifications—including CAD for machinery—and gain practical experience in their chosen pathways. A dedicated career coach helps connect students with internships, apprenticeships, and local employers, ensuring every student graduates prepared for both college and meaningful career opportunities.
UNION CHRISTIAN ACADEMY
The mission of Union Christian Academy of Fort Smith is to provide an outstanding Christian education centered on a Biblical worldview that encourages all students to reach their highest God-given potential.
The only fully accredited Pre-K through twelfth-grade private Christian school in the River Valley, Union offers students the highest academic rigor in a caring, supportive learning environment.
BY THE NUMBERS
Enrollment: 535
Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 100%
SPECIAL PROGRAMS
Advanced Placement Courses
Concurrent Enrollment via UAFS After-school Childcare
EXTRACURRICULARS
Band, Drama, Athletics
ACCOLADES
Multi-Year Winner of Best Private School in the River Valley Community Choice Award Winner
CONTACT
479.783.7327 | unioneagles.org
4201 Windsor Drive, Fort Smith
HOW DOES YOUR FAITH-BASED MISSION SHAPE THE LEARNING EXPERIENCE AT UCA?
Our mission is the standard by which everything is measured. We’re committed to providing an outstanding Christian education grounded in a Biblical worldview, so we continually ask whether our teaching, curriculum, and opportunities reflect that calling. If something isn’t aligned, academically or spiritually, we adjust. Our mission isn’t a statement on the wall; it keeps us centered on why we exist and who we’re serving.
WHAT SETS YOUR ACADEMIC AND SPIRITUAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS APART?
Biblical integration is woven into every stage of learning. In preschool and elementary, students begin with songs, stories, and Scripture memorization. By middle and high school, the Bible becomes their actual textbook. We teach students how to study Scripture for themselves rather than rely on a curriculum. Students also attend weekly chapel tailored to their age group. Our hope is that foundational truths become lifelong convictions as students grow.
HOW DO YOU CREATE A CLOSE-KNIT COMMUNITY WHERE STUDENTS FEEL SUPPORTED AND KNOWN?
Much of our unity comes from the work of the Holy Spirit, but intentionality plays a major role. We set clear expectations early, even during the New Student Interview, so students and families understand our culture and values. Small class sizes help us genuinely know each student: we learn their names, celebrate their successes, and stay attuned to their lives. That consistent care helps students feel seen, welcomed, and connected.
WHAT OPPORTUNITIES DEFINE STUDENT LIFE AT UCA?
Our students experience a balance of academic rigor and Christ-centered values. We offer a wide range of athletics—including basketball, volleyball, track, cross country, tennis, baseball, and softball—along with growing arts programs in Band, Worship Arts, Art, and Theater. One of the most defining experiences is Missions Week, when we pause academics to focus on serving others, locally, nationally, or internationally, with this year’s teams headed to Fort Smith, Arlington, and Peru.
HOW DOES UCA PREPARE STUDENTS FOR THE NEXT STEP IN EDUCATION OR THEIR FUTURE CALLING?
We aim to equip students for whatever God calls them to pursue: college, a trade, ministry, or missions. Preparation isn’t one-size-fits-all; it’s rooted in teaching them to learn, lead, and shine their light wherever they go. Our job is to fill their “toolbox” with the knowledge, skills, and spiritual foundation they’ll need to be successful. In all we do, we strive to Educate Minds, Shepherd Hearts, and Graduate Disciples.
Riding Shotgun
Father, mountain biker, and content creator Chris Stauffer proves the best rides are the ones you take together.
words DWAIN HEBDA // images PREMIER PHOTOGRAPHY
In Bentonville, where mountain bikes are as common as laptops, it takes something special to stand out. But when Chris Stauffer hits the trail, it’s not his speed or skill that turns heads—it’s his three-year-old co-pilot, Ryland, perched in front of him and grinning ear to ear as they tackle the trails together.
A tech professional by day and lifelong mountain biker by passion, Chris has found a way to merge both worlds, capturing his father-son rides on camera for their growing ozbikedad community (pronounced “Oz Bike Dad”) on YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok. Each video shows the pair weaving through NWA trails, Ryland’s voice chiming in with observations about birds, bumps, and “gnarly” turns that make viewers smile right along with him and his dad.
“I started mountain biking when I was pretty young, so I always knew it was something I wanted to share with my kids,” Chris says. “Most kiddos don't take to balance bikes until they’re between one and two years old, and they don’t start pedaling or riding outside until much later, so a bike seat is
really the earliest possible way to get them outside on two wheels. A shotgun seat and mini handlebars are the natural progression of a ‘bucket seat’ with a harness, which is what a baby requires. Eventually Ryland graduated to the shotgun seat, and the rest is history.”
The idea of taking Ryland along, which Chris calls “shotgunning,” as in “riding shotgun,” came about when the tot was about eleven months old. When asked how much convincing it took to get his wife, Rachael, on board with strapping their firstborn to a mountain bike, he laughs.
"I get questions like that a lot," he says. "What you see in the videos I’m creating now with Ryland is definitely not where we started. He began in a bucket seat, strapped in so he didn’t have to hold on if he didn’t want to. We went very slowly, only on pavement at first. Then, when he finally got his own seat, the first ride was me standing next to him, just pushing the bike in the driveway. From there, it was slower speeds, no trails whatsoever.”
CHRIS STAUFFER AND SON, RYLAND
He chuckles again when asked if that first ride went perfectly. “Haha, yes. Ryland's very first bike seat had a ‘windshield,’ which was a giant piece of clear plastic that mounted to the front of my bike to keep the wind out of his face,” Chris says. “It looked absolutely ridiculous, and, in retrospect, he should have just worn tiny sunglasses, like his 11-month-old brother is doing now.”
The rides are made possible by new aftermarket seats that replace the old bucket-style versions which were mounted behind riders. Ryland’s perch sits in front of his dad, complete with a small set of faux handlebars to grip. Facing an Insta360 action camera mounted to the front of the bike, every moment of their ride together is recorded.
As for the logistics, Chris says setting up the seat and camera came pretty naturally. “I've always been pretty good with outdoor gear and action cameras,” he explains. “We just
followed the instructions that came with the seat, mounted our camera to the bike, and off we went!”
Chris, who’s been mountain biking for fifteen years, the last two in Bentonville, says the setup allows him to capture moments on the bike with Ryland while indulging a long-held interest in video. "It's a combination of factors," Chris says. "I've always been interested in video, not full-on production, but more like action camera editing. I was always documenting things with my wife before the kids — our vacations, ski trips, bike rides, stuff like that. When we had kids, it was really about sharing that passion with them while figuring out how I could still be on my bike. I just stumbled into it, but it's been a win-win.
"Another thing I like to point out is that those action cameras take a wide field of view and cram it into a smaller frame, which makes it look like we’re going much faster than we actually are. We’ve been doing this for almost two years now. I wouldn’t say we’re going slow, but we’re probably not going as fast as the videos make it look."
For Ryland’s part, he’s a natural, keeping up a steady chatter during the short videos, clad in his helmet, racing shades, and cycling gloves. One second, he’s talking about enjoying the bumps; the next, he’s spotted a bird or another critter and shares his thoughts on what it’s doing and where it’s headed. The sound of the tires on the ground is as soothing as the joy on the youngster’s face, and each video ends with Ryland’s voice saying, “Yay, ozbikedad !”
"The videos of us shotgunning are definitely the most popular," Chris says of his social media presence. "I’ve seen a lot of growth on my channels from those videos. I think my audience is primarily non-cyclists or casual cyclists, parents, too. A lot of the comments I get are, ‘This looks fun, how do I get started with this?’ or, ‘What seat is that? What helmet is that?’ Those kinds of questions."
He admits that documenting their rides is as fun as the rides themselves. “Action cameras have come a long way in terms of battery life and storage space since I bought my first one,” Chris says. “I start recording as soon as Ryland and I set out and don’t stop until we’re done. It makes for a lengthy editing process, but I enjoy reliving our adventures and the creativity that editing brings.”
The payoff has been impressive. “Yeah! I have several videos that have received over a million views, with one reaching over eleven million,” Chris adds.
Recently, the videos have shown Ryland starting to graduate to his own bike, a bittersweet transition that shows the youngster inheriting his dad’s passion for riding but also signaling the impending end of the shotgunning phase, as he’ll soon be too big to ride with his dad. And even though Chris has started the cycle all over again with one-year-old Henrik, Ryland’s baby brother, this chapter has passed in the blink of an eye.
Still, there have been a few lessons learned along the way. “Yeah, we've had a few close calls, and we've talked through them together and learned from them,” he says. “I always make
sure Ryland and I are wearing the proper gear—full-face helmet, eye protection, knee pads, and elbow pads. We always ride in control and never take unnecessary risks. Mountain biking is an inherently dangerous sport, which is what makes it fun, but it also provides kids with a controlled, exciting way to assess risk and understand consequences early in life.”
Perhaps that’s why, when asked what these moments mean to him, Chris says he hasn’t let himself reflect on them too much, preferring instead to stay present and enjoy them in the moment.
“The honest answer is, I’m still figuring that out,” he says. “Parents with grown kids will message me and say, ‘You have no idea what this is going to mean to you or to Ryland someday.’ And maybe they’re right. I think I’ll understand it more when he’s older.”
When asked if there’s a dream ride or trip he hopes to share with Ryland and Henrik someday, Chris doesn’t hesitate. “Oh yeah! I'd
love to take them to see a downhill or freeride competition in person, something like Crankworx in Canada or Rampage in Utah,” he says.
As for what he hopes his sons remember most, he gets reflective. “I hope it encourages them to have children, go on their own adventures, and create similar memories,” Chris says. “My dad took me for bike rides when I was Ryland's age, which has been a major inspiration for all of this. I hope Ryland and Henrik do the same. Being their dad is simply the best.”
For now, he’s not overthinking it. “I’m just taking it at face value,” he adds. “It’s fun. It’s bonding time. We’ve built such a strong relationship through biking, and I’m just trying to be present for every second of it — every laugh, every ride, every ‘Yay, ozbikedad!’”
Follow their adventures on YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok @ozbikedad.
What Remains: A Daughter’s Story
The official record of this case has remained unchanged for more than fifty years. Elizabeth Newman revisits the tragedy that still leaves her with unanswered questions.
words MARLA CANTRELL // images courtesy ELIZABETH NEWMAN
OOn the afternoon of January 31, 1971, fifteen-year-old Elizabeth Swearingen (now Newman) stormed away from her home at the corner of Shibley and Kibler Roads in Van Buren. According to Elizabeth, she was startled when her stepfather, Arkansas State Trooper Ed Blackard, returned from a morning hunt with a sack of quail, since she had assumed he would stay overnight at his cabin.
She recalls he had been drinking, was agitated, and began pacing through the house, raising his voice and demanding she clean and cook the quail. She refused. Later, when her mother, Kathryn, who was the Crawford County deputy tax collector, came home from visiting her elderly father, Elizabeth remembers hearing tension rise between them, as she says she’d heard many times before.
Elizabeth adored her mother. She loved Ed too, although that relationship was not without its troubles. “I think a lot of people probably felt the way about Ed that we did. Which is that he had a dark side, but he had so many positive qualities,” Elizabeth says.
Elizabeth recalls that Ed and Kathryn had separated once, and that he worked hard to reconcile. She remembers
ED AND KATHRYN BLACKARD
ED BLACKARD
feeling optimistic, believing that even with Ed’s drinking and volatility, the impetus for the separation, there was a real chance he’d changed.
On that last day of January, however, Elizabeth had heard enough.
The low that day was thirty-three degrees, certainly not barefoot weather. Yet, Elizabeth had run out, without her shoes or coat, slamming the door behind her. To make matters worse, the road she walked was gravel.
As she trudged along, Dr. J.C. Hubbs, the town’s veterinarian and someone she worked for part-time, stopped to see if she needed a ride home. She declined. A short while later, he returned, still concerned about her walking barefoot in the cold. According to Elizabeth, who had walked to a nearby pasture, she climbed over a fence and accepted the ride to the Hubbs’ home to warm up.
As they drove back toward the intersection of Shibley Road and Kibler Road, Elizabeth remembers seeing an ambulance in the driveway of her home. At fifteen, she assumed it was something minor, perhaps an injury from a fall or an argument gone too far.
At the Hubbs’ home, Mrs. Hubbs made cocoa and gave her slippers. Before long, two men arrived to interview her: her stepfather’s supervisor with the Arkansas State Police and the Crawford County deputy coroner. Elizabeth recalls giving them the best account she could, still unaware of the severity of what had happened.
“Dr. Hubbs treated me with such kindness on that day… No one could have treated me with more kindness or a gentler hand,” Elizabeth says.
Fifteen is a tender age. When she arrived at Crawford County Memorial Hospital (now Baptist Health - Van Buren), she learned her mother was dead. Ed had been declared DOA. Elizabeth’s world split into before and after
Bill Vickery, the Crawford County sheriff and a friend of Kathryn’s, arrived at the crime scene and began an initial investigation. The sheriff’s department had received a call from Kathryn, asking for an ambulance and reporting that she and Ed had shot each other. However, when the Arkansas State Police took over the case, they surmised that Kathryn had shot Ed, then shot herself.
For Elizabeth, that conclusion created a wound that decades could not close. In
her mind, if her mother had intentionally taken her own life, it meant she chose to leave Elizabeth behind, and that was impossible to reconcile with the mother she knew.
Elizabeth didn't speak openly about the shooting for years. After a brief stay with an aunt out-of-state, she moved in with her grandmother and returned to school in Van Buren. She found a new crowd, kids who didn’t know her history and didn’t ask questions.
What eventually steadied her life was education. As Ed’s stepdaughter, Elizabeth qualified for Social Security benefits that allowed her to pursue college. “I give all the credit in the world to education for pulling me up by the bootstraps of what could have been a really dismal life.”
At the University of Arkansas, an anthropology class led her to sociology, where she first heard academic language that helped her make sense of the difficult dynamics she remembered from her childhood. That understanding shaped her entire career. Over decades of teaching in Missouri, Wisconsin, and Arkansas, she taught more than 15,000 students, always mindful of those who, like her younger self, were trying to understand the forces shaping their lives.
But her mother, Kathryn, was never far from her mind.
In the early 1990s, Elizabeth was living in Missouri. Her best friend in Arkansas mentioned a conversation with a woman named Boots Runion, who had
ELIZABETH
been close to Kathryn and her children. According to Elizabeth, Boots did not believe Kathryn had taken her own life and encouraged her to contact retired Crawford County Sheriff Bill Vickery. Elizabeth remembers Bill Vickery as someone who knew her family well. In her recollection, he had once taken her to the hospital after an incident with Ed at home during her childhood.
When she reached out to him, she says he shared the files he had kept over the years. There were many.
Elizabeth also obtained portions of the Arkansas State Police case file — no easy task. In her book Reclaiming Kathryn, what she found only deepened her questions. She describes discovering misspelled names, sometimes twice on the same page; crime scene photographs that were referenced but no longer part of the record; and tests mentioned in reports that were missing from the file. She also recalls that Kathryn’s clothing and Ed’s service revolver were unaccounted for. And while Ed’s autopsy was detailed, Kathryn’s was noticeably limited by comparison.
To Elizabeth, there were gaps everywhere, more holes than certainty.
Once she gathered all she could, she sat down to write. It took her ten months to finish the manuscript. “I never cried while I was writing, but every night when I would finish about three a.m., I’d close it all down and I’d go online and pull up some music that was evocative of my Ozark heritage, and I’d weep.” The tears stopped when the book was finished.
Reclaiming Kathryn does not definitively answer what happened that day; there may never be a definitive answer. But it does shine the light on inconsistencies, missing evidence, and investigative shortcuts.
During a recent talk with criminology students at Langston University, in Oklahoma, Elizabeth was asked if the Arkansas State Police had contacted her concerning her book. She says they have not.
Today, she remains reflective about her life after the tragedy. She’s grateful for the family that took care of her, the career that gave her purpose, the loving man she married, and her children.
She remembers her mother sitting at the piano, playing hymns by ear, and herself harmonizing. She remembers
her mother’s smile, her gentle answers to hard questions, her laughter. She remembers being held in that light for fifteen years. And even now, the light shines on.
In the end, Elizabeth wrote her book because the record left her with questions, because so much remained unresolved in her memory, and because her mother’s story felt larger than what fit into a two-page summary.
Reclaiming Kathryn became her way of honoring the woman she lost and giving shape to the questions that had stayed with her for more than fifty years.
You can find Reclaiming Kathryn locally at Chapters on Main in downtown Van Buren, Arkansas, as well as online retailers.
Trails and Towns
&
From Fort Smith to Bentonville, cities across Arkansas are discovering that paved trails do far more than provide a place to stroll; they connect people, neighborhoods, and daily life.
words BOB ROBINSON // images FORT SMITH PARKS & RECREATION, RAZORBACK GREENWAY, BENTONVILLE PARKS & RECREATION
Arkansas is quickly becoming a model for communities nationwide that aspire to build trail networks offering meaningful alternative transportation options. The state’s growing system of bikeways and greenways demonstrates that trails are far more than recreation, they are a vital part of how cities move forward.
FORT SMITH
FORT SMITH IN MOTION . When Ben Geren Park constructed one of Fort Smith’s first paved trails in the early 2000s, its intended use was strictly recreational. The goal was to provide bicyclists and pedestrians with a hard-surfaced pathway where they could exercise amid the scenic wooded and prairie terrain of Sebastian County’s largest park.
Today, that same trail is part of an expanding network of paved pathways that offer a safe, healthy, alternative means of transportation. The driving force behind this growth has been one priority: connectivity.
Homebuyers increasingly prioritize neighborhoods that offer walkability, access to outdoor recreation, and proximity to everyday destinations. Studies by the National Association of Realtors show that property values near trails and greenways can increase by as much as 15 percent.
Residents of neighborhoods such as Highland Crossing, Haven, Huntington Chase, Reata, and Stone Brook can now walk or bike from their front doors to numerous destinations using a network of separated paved trails. Restaurants, grocers, health clinics, breweries, park facilities, and many other popular spots are accessible without ever starting a car.
CAROL ANN CROSS BOARDWALK
Fort Smith leaders recognize the importance of connected greenways and continue to support their expansion. Fort Smith Mobility Coordinator Michael Mings says the city has a new trail underway that will offer a high degree of connectivity in yet another part of town.
“When complete, the Maybranch Greenway will connect many of Fort Smith’s most celebrated public spaces, such as the Riverfront Trail, Creekmore Park, and the Public Library,” Michael said. “Other destinations that will be accessible by the Greenway include grocery stores, restaurants, schools, neighborhoods, and numerous parks and greenspaces.”
Another Fort Smith trail worth celebrating, even though it does not connect to other pathways, is the 1.2-mile Carol Ann Cross Greenway and Boardwalk. Named the Arkansas Recreation and Parks Association’s 2025 Hard Surface Trail of the Year, the scenic route provides a beautiful link from its namesake neighborhood park to a serene overlook on the banks of the Arkansas River featuring an ADA-accessible concrete trail, and elevated boardwalk.
NORTHWEST AR
CONNECTIVITY IN NWA . As the 40-mile Razorback Greenway celebrated its tenth anniversary in 2024, the Northwest Arkansas Regional Planning Commission (NWARPC) set
out to develop a plan for how the trail could serve the region’s future needs. With support from a Walton Family Foundation grant, the group conducted a study examining how residents across the seven cities along the route were using the Greenway. The results mirrored what Fort Smith has seen: recreation was the trail’s primary use, accounting for 91 percent of activity.
NWARPC Multimodal Transportation Planner Tim Reavis said the findings were shared with leaders from each community. The next question for the group was how the Greenway could evolve to meet future needs.
The unanimous answer was connectivity. Many communities noted that the Greenway does not currently reach their neighborhoods, limiting its usefulness for commuting, errands, and social activities.
RAZORBACK GREENWAY
The lone exception was Rogers. Trail Manager Kara King explained that Rogers faced a similar challenge years earlier when the original Greenway alignment bypassed the city’s downtown. In response, Rogers connected existing trails and built new ones to create the 15.2-mile Railyard Loop, which now spans much of the city.
The Railyard Loop not only connects Downtown Rogers to the Razorback Greenway, but also links residential areas to businesses, schools, parks, entertainment, and industry. Ten schools and nine city parks sit directly along the Loop, with seven additional parks available via connecting trails.
“The goal is to not only provide the citizens of Rogers a safe space to explore the trails recreationally, but also to provide a safe alternative transportation route,” Kara said. Lighting is the next step in improving usability, and NWARPC may support that upgrade.
BENTONVILLE
BENTONVILLE PLAN. Bentonville, which has long enjoyed direct Greenway access to its downtown, did not experience the same initial challenges as Rogers. However, the city’s rapid westward expansion has created new connectivity gaps. To address this, Bentonville has begun work on the 25-mile Bentonville Greenway Loop.
Josh Stacey, Deputy Director of Bentonville Parks and Recreation, explained that the 8th Street Gateway Park, now under construction, will serve as the western anchor of the loop. The 100-acre park will close an important gap in the trail system and offer a destination for cyclists and pedestrians. Features will include a signature playground, climbing boulders, a beginner mountain bike trail, walking paths, a three-acre Great Lawn, a pavilion, and custom urban furniture designed for gathering with friends in a natural setting.
Beyond its amenities, the park is being designed as a community hub for West Bentonville, blending outdoor play, restored natural landscapes, and room for neighbors to come together. It will connect fast-growing neighborhoods to the city’s expanding trail network, support healthier watersheds through thoughtful ecological design, and give residents new opportunities to enjoy the outdoors close to home.
8TH STREET GATEWAY
An Arkansas Way of Seeing
HOW ARKANSAS TEACHES US TO WRITE POETRY
words ALLEN SCHAIDLE // images DAVIS NORWOOD AND MATT JOHNSGARD
My poetry is really just trail mud and crooked handwriting that usually starts with something tiny, like the thud of my feet in leaf mush or fog draped over a holler. Arkansas keeps throwing moments like these at me. My job is mostly not to miss them. People ask how I write. I don’t. The landscape writes. I just run, bike, walk, or sit long enough for the words to catch up.
There’s a kind of slow magic in the way Arkansas doesn’t advertise itself. No neon signs or billboards stating TURN HERE FOR INSPIRATION. The landscapes are classically shy in the, won’t wave back till the twelfth try behavior, but once they crack a smile, they talk your ear off. Give them time and they’ll end up writing half your poems for you.
SEEING LIKE A POET
I don’t pretend to know what I’m doing, but I know what works for me and maybe it’s helpful to others who want to wring a bit more meaning out of their time outdoors.
Move first, think later. Walk, run, bike, paddle, or crawl to get your blood going. Movement knocks the dust off the senses and wakes the mind up, like an old generator sputtering to life. The idea is rhythm. Everything outdoors moves in rhythm.
Don’t force the “big idea.” Inspiration rarely arrives as a lightning strike. More often, it’s something tiny: A mushroom glowing under oak leaves. A cattle pond catching the sky. A rusty fence leaning like it’s tired.
You don’t chase the meaning. You let the meaning chase you.
Write ugly notes. Poetry doesn’t start off poetic. Mine starts as a sweaty phone note or a scribble scratched with a twig. Halfthoughts and half-misspelled, but that’s the point: capture first, craft later.
Let the landscape set the pace. Write slow when the world is slow. Write short when the world contracts into sharp moments, like a hawk swooping low or a coyote slipping between trees.
The terrain teaches you cadence. Hills teach breath. Rivers teach flow. Big, flat Delta fields teach stillness and long lines.
End with gratitude, not perfection. A bad poem written outside is worth more than a perfect poem written indoors out of guilt. Arkansas rewards participation, not performance.
WHAT IT MEANS TO FEEL AT HOME SOMEWHERE
People talk a lot about “holistic wellness” these days, like it’s a vitamin you order online. When I’m on a trail, watching the seasons turn, something clicks. My stress untangles, my shoulders drop, and my deepest thoughts (fatherhood, grief, joy, place, faith, belonging) all start to form. Usually few answers manifest, and that’s fine. They just shape and that’s enough.
The landscape demands your presence. You can’t ruminate on emails when you’re hopping over wet roots. You can’t spiral when a kingfisher torpedoes downriver right in front of you. Arkansas refuses to let you be half-here and that, right there, is the beginning of every poem.
When I moved to Arkansas, I thought I was just finding trails, but the longer I’ve lived here, the more I realize the landscape starts shaping not only my writing, but also my way of being.
Sometimes I’ll be out on a ridgeline at dusk with the sky going pink and the forest rustling breath, and I’ll feel this tug, like the land is saying, Okay then. Let’s write. And I do. Not always well nor neatly, but faithfully.
AN INVITATION
Here’s the thing: you don’t need to be good at writing to write, you don’t need to understand trees to listen to them, and you definitely don’t need to know what a poem is to feel one forming in the back of your throat after a walk in the woods.
You just need to go outside. Let Arkansas do the heavy lifting. Let your mind wander. Pick up whatever you find on the trail — ideas, oak leaves, a bit of yourself you misplaced.
Then, go home and see what words stuck. That’s my entire method. That’s the whole miracle. Arkansas will take it from there.
An Arkansas Education
lines ALLEN SCHAIDLE
if arkansas has taught me anything, it’s that the world doesn’t mind waiting while I come to my senses
mt. nebo will sit there all day, arms crossed, watching me huff and puff my way up and the big piney well, she’s got a personality of her own some days she talks sweet, slipping around stones bashfully, other days she slaps the banks reminding me who’s really in charge
i’ve learned more from the ouachita ridgelines than from most books i’ve read and the trees are far better company than half the people i’ve met
a delta gravel road will tell me straight that i'm going too fast a crow will cuss me out for reasons it will not disclose and the pig trail has shown me the shortest distance between two points is rarely the one worth taking
now and then a poem sneaks up on me not because i’m wise, but because arkansas ran out of ways to explain something politely so i take the hint, write it down as best i can, and thank the land for putting up with me another day
if that's not an arkansas education, i don’t know what is
CARRIE PRESTON on Curiosity, Craft & the Heart of Elsbeth
Carrie Preston continues to shine as Elsbeth Tascioni in Elsbeth , a role that recently earned her a Critics Choice nomination and widespread acclaim. With Season 3 now streaming and available to viewers into spring, Preston reflects on the character’s enduring charm, her Southern roots, and the joy she hopes the series continues to bring audiences.
What excites you most about returning to Elsbeth for Season 3?
What delights me is that Elsbeth still feels like this li’l meteor streaking through the procedural universe. She moves through New York with this mix of awe and curiosity — like she’s both mapping the city and falling in love with it at the same time. And the writers keep handing me these wonderfully intricate puzzles to play with. I feel like I’m hopping onto a moving carousel and seeing which new horse I get to ride.
How
do you keep Elsbeth fresh while maintaining qualities fans love?
By Season 3, the audience really knows her rhythms, so I love shaking things up a bit. The shift from a Chicago law firm to a New York police precinct gave her a whole new world to bounce around in — new personalities, new rules she may or may not follow. And I adore discovering the “Elsbits,” as I call them: the funny, physical ways that Elsbeth embodies every moment. The audience expects them, but I like to dig deeper for a new emotional note or make an unpredictable choice, so she remains surprising, even to herself.
What does it mean to see Elsbeth resonate so deeply with viewers?
It lands so deeply when someone tells me our show makes them smile or that it helped them through a tough time or that they watch it with their loved ones. Elsbeth is such a glass-half-full person — not naïve, but actively hopeful — and it’s moving to hear that some of that attitude is infectious. If a little of her optimism spills into someone’s real life, that’s a gift.
How
has your Southern upbringing shaped your work?
I was raised by a family that embraced artistic creativity and expression. The freedom and encouragement to pursue acting as my life’s work was invaluable. My parents never tried to persuade me to pursue a “backup profession,” and I’m eternally grateful. I often draw on my Southern background in character work — most obviously as Arlene in True Blood and in My Best Friend’s Wedding. And the innate Southern hospitality in me has been put to great use as I welcome guest stars each week on Elsbeth. I want everyone to feel like they just walked into someone’s home.
What do you hope audiences carry with them after Season 3?
Elsbeth reminds me, and I hope viewers too, that life is brighter when you embrace all things, love your people fiercely, stay curious, and embrace wonder, even when life is messy. My hope is that audiences leave each episode with a smile and maybe a little more appreciation for the joy in everyday life, especially when there are mysteries to solve.
words DO SOUTH with CARRIE PRESTON image SHAWN FLINT BLAIRRECREATION
COMFORT FOOD SOUPS WINTER
Tuscan Bean & Kale Soup
A rustic Italian soup simmered with cannellini beans, vegetables, tomatoes, and kale. It’s hearty, comforting, and full of flavor.
INGREDIENTS
° 2 Tbsp. olive oil
° 1 large yellow onion, diced
° 2 medium carrots, sliced
° 2 celery stalks, diced
° 2 garlic cloves, minced
° 1½ tsp. Italian seasoning
° ½ tsp. crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
° 2 Tbsp. tomato paste
° 1 can (14.5 oz.) diced tomatoes, Italian style
° 2 cans (15 oz. each) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
° 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
° 2–3 cups chopped kale
° 1–2 Tbsp. lemon juice
° salt and pepper
METHOD
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, cook until tender, 8–10 minutes. Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook 1 minute. Add tomato paste and cook, 1–2 minutes. Stir in diced tomatoes, beans, and broth. Bring to a simmer and cook 15–20 minutes.
For a heartier, Ribollita-style texture, mash 1 cup of the beans and stir them back in. Add kale and cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Stir in lemon juice, adjust seasonings as desired.
Italian Wedding Soup
A wholesome Italian favorite filled with delicious meatballs, veggies, and tiny pasta in every bite.
INGREDIENTS
for the meatballs
° ½ lb. ground beef
° ½ lb. ground pork
° 1 large egg
° ¼ cup grated Parmesan
° ½ cup Italian breadcrumbs
° 3 Tbsp. chopped parsley
° 1 tsp. oregano
° salt and pepper
° 2 garlic cloves, minced for the soup
° 1 Tbsp. olive oil
° 1 small yellow onion, diced
° 3 medium carrots, diced
° 2 celery stalks, diced
° 2 garlic cloves, minced
° 8 cups chicken broth
° ¾ cup acini di pepe (or tiny pasta)
° 2-3 cups fresh spinach
° Parmesan, grated for serving
METHOD
In a bowl, mix ground meats, egg, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, oregano, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Form small, 1-inch meatballs. Heat 1 Tablespoon olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Brown meatballs in 2 batches, about 3-4 minutes. Transfer to plate, set aside. Add onion, carrots, and celery to the pot; cook until just tender. Add garlic, salt and pepper. Cook 1 minute. Add meatballs back to the pot. Pour in broth, let simmer about 5 minutes. Taste broth, adjust seasonings. Add pasta, lower heat, and cook until tender, 8–10 minutes. Remove from heat, stir in spinach until wilted.
Chicken Noodle Soup
A classic, winter staple. Cozy up with a comforting bowl filled with hearty chicken, tender vegetables, and delicious egg noodles.
INGREDIENTS
° 2 Tbsp. olive oil
° 1 Tbsp. butter
° 1 large yellow onion, diced
° 3 medium carrots, sliced
° 3 celery stalks, sliced
° 3 garlic cloves, minced
° ½ tsp. dried thyme
° ½ tsp. dried parsley
° 1–2 Tbsp. dry white wine (optional, for deglazing)
° 8 cups chicken broth
° 2 bay leaves
° 1½–2 lbs. split chicken breasts with ribs
° 2 cups wide egg noodles
° 1–2 Tbsp. lemon juice
° salt and black pepper
° fresh parsley for garnish
METHOD
Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery; cook until tender, 8–10 minutes. Stir in garlic, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Add wine, if using, and let it sizzle for 30 seconds. Pour in chicken broth, add bay leaves and chicken. Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook until chicken is tender, 30–40 minutes.
Remove chicken. Discard skin and bones, shred meat. Return chicken to the pot. Add egg noodles and cook until tender, 6–8 minutes. Remove bay leaves and stir in lemon juice, adjust seasonings. Ladle into a bowl and garnish with fresh parsley.
recipe DO SOUTH // image ANA MARIJA
&
Mulled Pear ROSEMARY HOT TODDY
A warm, fragrant winter toddy infused with pear, bright citrus, and cozy spices. It’s the perfect January comfort cocktail.
INGREDIENTS
(makes 4-6)
° 4 cups pear cider (or pear juice)
° 1 ripe pear, thinly sliced
° 1 lemon, sliced
° 2 cinnamon sticks
° 2–3 star anise
° 4–6 cardamom pods, lightly crushed
° 1 small sprig fresh rosemary
° 2–3 Tbsp. honey, to taste
° bourbon or vodka (2 oz. per serving)
METHOD
In a saucepan, warm pear cider with pear slices, lemon, cinnamon, star anise, cardamom, rosemary, and honey for about 20 minutes, do not boil. Let steep 5 minutes. Pour 2 oz. bourbon or vodka into a warmed mug, add hot mulled cider, and stir gently. Garnish as desired.
words DO SOUTH // image SUNNY FOREST
HEALTH & WELLNESS GUIDE
Wellness looks different for everyone, but one truth remains: we are healthier when we have a network of trusted professionals supporting our journey. This year’s Health & Wellness Guide features local providers whose expertise spans the full spectrum of care. No matter where you are on your wellness path, these providers offer insight, compassion, and encouragement to help you thrive.
ADVANCED DENTAL & TMJ CARE
Jaw and bite balance affect whole-body comfort. Dr. Wes Moore explains how they diagnose and treat underlying issues.
WHAT ARE SOME SIGNS OF AN UNBALANCED BITE OR TMJ ISSUE THATPATIENTS MAY OVERLOOK?
Popping or clicking jaws are not normal and often signal joint damage or imbalance. Many people also experience headaches, vertigo, tinnitus, ear or eye-area pain, and tension in the neck and shoulders — symptoms frequently caused by malocclusion, when the teeth don’t fit together properly.
HOW CAN A DENTAL EVALUATION IDENTIFY THE SOURCE OF PAIN?
Massage may offer short-term relief, but it doesn’t address the underlying bite imbalance. When teeth don’t meet evenly, muscles
overwork, leading to tenderness, fatigue, cracked teeth, or even root canals. An evaluation identifies the true source before it becomes more painful or more expensive to correct.
HOW CAN THE WAY TEETH COME TOGETHER AFFECT THE JAW, HEAD, AND NECK?
If teeth don’t contact evenly on both sides, the muscles that close the mouth are forced to work harder than they should. This constant strain reduces blood flow, leading to muscle fatigue, tenderness, and pain. It’s similar to repeatedly overworking a muscle at the gym, eventually it becomes sore, inflamed, and dysfunctional.
A Misaligned Bite Affects the Whole Body. Let's Fix It.
TMJ problems often begin with an unbalanced bite, which can lead to headaches, vertigo, ringing in the ears, jaw clicking, neck pain, and tooth sensitivity. Our stateof-the-art MooreRelief Method uses advanced diagnostics to pinpoint the exact source of your discomfort and create a personalized plan for lasting relief.
WHAT TECHNOLOGY DO YOU USE TO DIAGNOSE BITE-RELATED PROBLEMS?
The most accurate way to diagnose joint disorders is with Joint Vibration Analysis (JVA), a fast and pain-free test. To precisely measure how and where the teeth contact, and how much force is applied, we use T-Scan technology, a computerized bite analysis system that is nearly 100% accurate. Traditional bite paper is only about 13% accurate and cannot measure timing or pressure. I’m the only dentist in our area who has invested in the training and equipment needed to evaluate and treat joint and bite misalignment at this level.
Moore and Dr. Nagrampa
Dr.
ADVANCED PLASTIC,
Plastic Surgery spans cosmetic enhancement, restorative procedures, and complex hand care. Choosing the right surgeon is an important decision. Dr. Kelly, Western Arkansas Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, offers the expertise required to choose the right path forward.
PLASTIC, RECONSTRUCTIVE, AND HAND SURGERY COVERS A WIDE RANGE OF PATIENT NEEDS. WHAT SHOULD PEOPLE UNDERSTAND ABOUT THE SCOPE OF YOUR PRACTICE?
Plastic surgery is a broad field that includes cosmetic procedures, reconstructive work, and advanced hand surgery. Patients come in with very different concerns, and each requires a tailored approach. My role is to evaluate the underlying issue, whether it is functional, structural, or aesthetic, and determine the safest and most effective technique to address it, based on each patient’s unique needs.
WHAT SETS FELLOWSHIP-TRAINED HAND SURGERY APART, AND WHEN SHOULD SOMEONE SEE A SPECIALIST?
The strongest hand fellowships involve multiple surgeons and a wide range of complex cases, giving physicians a broad foundation for solving difficult problems. Without this training, surgeons may rely on a one-procedurefits-all approach, which rarely works for advanced conditions. Patients with persistent hand pain, numbness, trauma, or functional loss often see the best outcomes when treated by a fellowship-trained specialist.
RESTORING LIVES Healing Hands,
HOW DO YOU HELP PATIENTS UNDERSTAND
WHAT RESULTS ARE REALISTIC FOR RESTORING FORM AND FUNCTION?
Clear communication is essential. Patients should know what to expect well before surgery, including healing time and potential limitations. This helps clients reduce anxiety and uncertainty. My job is to educate them honestly and prepare a plan that supports the best possible outcome. When surgeon and patient work together with a shared understanding, recovery is smoother and results are far more successful.
Since 1996, Dr. James E. Kelly Ill has been a leading physician and independent surgeon specializing in plastic, hand, reconstructive, and cosmetic surgery. Board-certified and fellowship-trained, Dr. Kelly helps patients regain mobility, self-esteem, and confidence.
Our
and
for our patients.
DIRECT PRIMARY CARE
Long-term wellness starts with continuity. Dr. Justin Voris highlights how direct primary care strengthens everyday health.
DIRECT PRIMARY CARE (DPC) IS NEW TO MANY PEOPLE. HOW DOES IT DIFFER FROM TRADITIONAL PRIMARY CARE?
DPC offers the same full-spectrum family medical care but removes insurance companies from the middle, creating a simple, direct relationship between a patient and physician. My practice doesn’t change; I still care for all ages (newborns through the end of life) and perform in-clinic procedures. The difference is access and time: instead of managing thousands of patients, I will limit my panel to ~700 patients. That allows me to spend 30–45 minutes with you, answer your call myself, and be fully transparent with pricing. Now, among
other things, members can get same- or next-day visits for acute needs. If you have insurance, great, you can still use it when needed for certain labs, imaging, and specialist visits. Also, starting January 2026, you can even use your HSA to pay for memberships! We encourage our patients to maintain a health share or HDHP for specialists, hospitalizations, and major medical events.
HOW CAN CORE HEALTH SUPPORT SMALL BUSINESSES THAT WANT TO EXPLORE OPTIONS OR DON’T OFFER TRADITIONAL INSURANCE?
Core Health gives employers a flexible, affordable way to invest in
Primary Care That Puts Your Family First
Primary care for newborns through seniors with same, or next-day appointments, longer visits, and transparent pricing. Unlimited visits, discounted labs, and direct communication with your physician. One doctor for your whole family, or your employees, without the hassle.
their teams, whether they already offer insurance or have never been able. For businesses with existing plans, DPC enhances coverage by improving access, reducing outside claims, and giving employees a personal physician who handles most day-to-day needs. For those without insurance, it creates a meaningful healthcare benefit at a predictable, low monthly cost. Employees receive unlimited visits, faster access, transparent pricing, and deeply discounted labs, while employers gain a healthier, more supported workforce without the financial strain of traditional premiums.
BALANCE, MOBILITY & PELVIC HEALTH
Balance, mobility, and even pelvic health are essential to living fully and independently, influencing everything from posture and strength to stability, confidence, and the ability to move comfortably through everyday activities at any stage of life. FYZICAL Therapy Fort Smith shares expert insight to help you recover through physical therapy, increase your mobility, and improve your confidence.
WHAT MAKES FYZICAL THERAPY FORT SMITH DIFFERENT FROM TRADITIONAL CLINICS?
We certainly provide traditional physical therapy for knee, back, and shoulder issues, but our specialty services fill a critical need. We offer advanced vestibular and concussion rehabilitation, along with pelvic health therapy for both women and men. These areas greatly impact quality of life, yet many people don’t know where to turn. Our goal is to provide clear answers and effective, personalized care.
WHY FOCUS SO STRONGLY ON VESTIBULAR AND CONCUSSION THERAPY?
Dizziness, vertigo, imbalance, and post-concussion symptoms can make simple daily tasks feel overwhelming. Many people withdraw from favorite activities because they feel unsteady. Our work retrains the inner ear and nervous system so patients can move confidently again. Watching someone return to walking outside, playing sports, or enjoying time with family is incredibly rewarding.
PELVIC HEALTH IS RARELY DISCUSSED. WHY IS IT IMPORTANT?
Pelvic health challenges affect both women and men, though they’re often considered too sensitive to talk about. Issues such as postpartum concerns, pelvic pain, urinary symptoms, and
post-prostate recovery can affect comfort and confidence every day. We provide private, one-on-one pelvic health therapy designed to restore strength, reduce discomfort, and help people return to the life they want.
PELVIC HEALTH IS OFTEN ASSOCIATED WITH WOMEN.
HOW DO MEN BENEFIT FROM THIS TYPE OF THERAPY AS WELL?
Pelvic health therapy is beneficial for both women and men. Men may experience pelvic floor dysfunction related to prostate recovery, chronic pelvic pain, urinary concerns, or core and stability issues that affect daily movement and activity. Addressing pelvic health can improve comfort, strength, and confidence, helping men return to work, exercise, and everyday life with greater ease. It’s an important, yet often overlooked, part of whole-body wellness.
WHAT DOES A “WHOLE-PERSON” APPROACH MEAN AT FYZICAL?
We look beyond one body part to support the entire person. We consider lifestyle, daily routines, and personal goals. Success looks different for everyone—gardening pain-free, lifting grandkids, returning to travel, or simply feeling steady again. Your therapy plan is built around the life you want, because our mission is to help you truly love your life again.
WHAT EARLY SIGNS OF BALANCE ISSUES DO PEOPLE TEND TO
IGNORE?
Most people notice subtle changes long before a fall happens: touching walls or furniture for support, avoiding dim lighting, hesitating on stairs, or feeling off when turning their head quickly. These early signs matter. Addressing balance concerns sooner helps people stay independent, active, and confident.
WHAT CAN SOMEONE EXPECT DURING THEIR FIRST VISIT AT FYZICAL?
A first visit is highly individualized. We listen carefully to understand what someone is experiencing and how it affects daily life. Then we complete a detailed assessment that may include balance testing, movement analysis, vestibular screening, or pelvic floor evaluation. Patients leave with clarity and a personalized plan forward.
WHAT’S ONE SMALL DAILY HABIT THAT SUPPORTS BETTER BALANCE AND MOBILITY?
Simple, consistent balance challenges can create long-term stability. Practicing single-leg standing while brushing your teeth, doing slow head turns, or walking on slightly uneven surfaces trains the brain and inner ear to respond more effectively. These tiny moments build steady progress and confidence.
At FYZICAL, care goes beyond exercises and checklists; it's about helping you reclaim the life you want. Our highly trained team provides advanced vestibular rehabilitation, concussion therapy, pelvic health treatment for men and women, and personalized orthopedic care tailored to your goals. Whether you’re navigating dizziness, rebuilding strength, or seeking answers for pelvic floor concerns, we’re here with expertise, compassion, and a plan that truly fits your life.
COSMETIC SURGERY
Today’s cosmetic procedures offer more choices than ever before, blending advanced techniques, improved technology, and shorter recovery times to help patients address concerns with greater precision and confidence. With so many options available, understanding what’s possible, and what best aligns with individual goals, matters more than ever. Dr. Ann Passmore helps patients navigate these options with clarity, expertise, and a commitment to natural-looking results.
WHAT
ARE SOME COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS PEOPLE HAVE ABOUT PLASTIC SURGERY?
Many people are unaware that today’s technology provides a nightand-day difference in effectiveness and recovery compared to just a few years ago. Patients see better results with very little, if any, downtime for many procedures. Some also assume that cosmetic surgery is only for the rich and famous. In reality, both non-surgical and surgical procedures can be very affordable—and financing is available if desired.
HOW DO YOU GUIDE PATIENTS IN CHOOSING PROCEDURES THAT FIT THEIR LIFESTYLE AND LONG-TERM GOALS?
While I believe that my patients appreciate my training, expertise, and experience, I am confident they equally appreciate my willingness to listen. Many come for a consultation because they are seeking confidence. There is something about their appearance that bothers them, and they want to discuss options for improvement. I hear it every day—patients want to feel better about themselves, and I consider it a privilege to help them achieve that. The tools we use have changed over the years, but my commitment to my patients and to helping them reach whatever goal they have in mind has not. That’s a big part of why I love what I do.
WHAT QUESTIONS SHOULD EVERY PATIENT ASK DURING A CONSULTATION?
Every patient should ask about the board certification, training, and qualifications of the surgeon who will be performing their procedure. Patients should also ask about lifestyle modifications, medications that support healing, and follow-up visits. A qualified provider is your best resource—not social media, AI, or Google.
WHERE
DO YOU PERFORM SURGERY?
My medical practice is independent and my patients have a choice of facility because I am credentialed to perform surgery at two hospitals and two outpatient surgery centers in Fort Smith.
WOULD YOU SHARE SOME PERSONAL INFORMATION
ABOUT YOURSELF?
After completing my medical residency at The Lahey Clinic Medical Center at Harvard University, I was excited to return to my hometown of Fort Smith to open my practice. I have lived here all my life and consider it a privilege to have practiced in the River Valley for more than 25 years. I have one son who attends my alma mater, Tulsa University, and I am blessed to have my farm, horses, dogs, cats, church, friends, and family to keep me busy and grounded.
HOW CAN PATIENTS VISUALIZE POST-SURGICAL RESULTS?
I do not feel comfortable posting before-and-after photos online, even
with patient approval. I find it is better to share those photos with a new patient in my office, where they can ask questions and form realistic expectations of the results. For those considering breast enhancement, we also utilize the Mentor Volume Sizing System, which allows a patient to visualize their appearance with various implant sizes.
WHAT’S NEW OR EVOLVING IN THE FIELD OF PLASTIC SURGERY?
The field of plastic surgery is constantly changing. There is a push toward natural results, but this is not always portrayed by celebrities whose results may appear overdone. Sometimes effective improvement requires staged procedures, not just a one-shot fix. For instance, radiofrequency treatments and collagen regeneration are “proactive” rejuvenation methods that slow the aging process before dramatic signs appear.
WHAT INDICATES THAT SOMEONE IS A GOOD CANDIDATE, OR NOT A GOOD CANDIDATE, FOR SURGERY?
Good candidates for surgery generally have been taking care of themselves with diet and exercise and are generally healthy. It’s also important that a patient is not partaking of any nicotine products as this reduces healing capability by reduction of oxygen delivery to tissues.
EXCITING NEWS! NEW LOCATION
It’s a new year - and we're starting it with a new look at a new location. Mid-January, Dr. Passmore and her staff will relocate to 8101 McClure Drive, Suite 100. Just off Massard Road, in the area near ArcBest, we know you’ll love the privacy and convenience our new office will provide.
Are you ready for a new look, too? Surgical and non-surgical procedures can be tailored to your needs and budget. Whether you long for fewer wrinkles or some body reshaping, make 2026 your year for an improved appearance and increased confidence. Call for a consultation today.
Certified, American Board of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
> Services customized for you & your budget
>More than 25 years experience
>Surgical and non-surgical procedures
>Injectables, fillers, high-quality products
>Frequent winner Community Choice and Best of the River Valley awards
FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE & AESTHETICS
Optimal health is built on personalized, evidence-based care that looks beyond surface symptoms to understand how the body functions as a whole, recognizing that fatigue, inflammation, hormone imbalance, and chronic concerns are often interconnected rather than isolated issues. Aspire Medical Aesthetics & Wellness shares how they utilize advanced testing and integrative therapies to uncover root causes and support long-term wellness.
WHAT INSPIRED YOUR SHIFT FROM TRADITIONAL INTERNAL MEDICINE TO A FUNCTIONAL APPROACH TO CARE?
Our healthcare system is increasingly disease-focused, medication-heavy, and expensive—yet patients are getting sicker. I knew I could offer something better. My family has benefited for years from a root-cause, systems-based approach that looks at the whole patient: lifestyle, nutrition, emotional and spiritual health, and precision medicine supported by advanced genetic and nutritional evaluations. I wanted to bring that same level of care to my patients.
HOW DOES FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE DIFFER WHEN IT COMES TO IDENTIFYING ROOT CAUSES?
Functional medicine asks deeper questions. Instead of focusing on the symptom in front of us and reaching for a medication, we explore the environmental, lifestyle, metabolic, and even genetic factors that contribute to illness. The goal isn’t to manage disease, it’s to restore health.
TELL US ABOUT COMPREHENSIVE EVALUATIONS AND WHY ADVANCED DIAGNOSTIC TESTING IS SO IMPORTANT. Our evaluations go far beyond standard labs. We assess detailed body composition, including protein mass, body fat percentage, visceral adiposity,
water balance, and inflammation status. Expanded laboratory panels look at hormones and essential minerals, while innovative genetic and biological age testing help identify deficiencies and risk factors that affect long-term health span.
HOW DO BIOLOGICAL AGE AND GENETIC INSIGHTS INFLUENCE A PATIENT’S WELLNESS PLAN?
These insights show us which factors are accelerating aging or undermining health. With that knowledge, we can implement proactive nutrition and lifestyle changes that improve health span and reduce disease risk. Many genetic predispositions are modifiable, and patients are often empowered when they learn that.
WHAT
INTEGRATIVE TREATMENTS OR THERAPIES DO YOU USE TO OPTIMIZE HEALTH, ENERGY, AND LONGEVITY?
We combine targeted hormone therapeutics, innovative peptide support, and high-quality nutritional supplementation. Together, these interventions can revitalize energy, improve body composition, and significantly prolong health span.
HOW DO YOU ENSURE PEPTIDE, HORMONE, AND CELLULAR THERAPIES
ARE USED SAFELY?
Safety starts with education and
experience. We use next-generation therapeutics from FDA-regulated pharmacies, personalize hormone optimization based on labs and patient response, and incorporate evidencebased therapies such as low-level laser (red light), detoxification programs, PRP, stem cells, and exosomes. These require an in-depth understanding of cellular function and physiology, something that comes only with advanced training.
ASPIRE BLENDS MEDICAL WELLNESS WITH AESTHETIC TREATMENTS. HOW DO THESE WORK TOGETHER?
We approach aesthetics through a wellness lens, enhancing natural features while preserving individuality. Our treatments improve skin health and body composition, which not only enhances appearance but also strengthens confidence and overall quality of life.
WHAT IS YOUR KEY MESSAGE ABOUT LIFELONG WELLNESS?
Your wellness journey can begin at any age. Every improvement in diet, lifestyle, or aesthetic health increases vitality and confidence. With the right interventions, you can pursue your God-given purpose and live life more fully. ASPIRE to be the best version of you.
A NEW VISION FOR HEALTH
INTRODUCING INTEGRATIVE MEDICAL WELLNESS AT ASPIRE
WHAT IS FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE?
A modern, science-based approach that uncovers the root cause of symptoms by examining hormones, metabolism, inflammation, genetics, nutrition, and lifestyle as an interconnected system. Functional Medicine looks deeper — focusing on the root causes of fatigue, inflammation, hormone imbalance, and age-related decline. Instead of treating symptoms in isolation, Aspire takes a whole-body approach that connects genetics, metabolism, nutrition, hormones, lifestyle, and overall physiology.
HOW ASPIRE HELPS YOU FEEL BETTER
• Advanced diagnostics that reveal why symptoms occur
• Personalized plans tailored to your biology
• Integrative, science-backed therapies that support long-term vitality
• A compassionate team guiding you through every step
WHY IT MATTERS
When you understand the biological “why,” you can finally create lasting change. Experience more energy, balanced hormones, improved clarity, better aging, and a stronger body from the inside out.
HEARING HEALTH
Whether it’s turning up the TV, feeling unsteady on your feet, or missing pieces of a conversation, the earliest signs of hearing or balance changes can be surprisingly subtle and easy to overlook. Center for Hearing and Balance helps people make sense of those moments, offering clarity, reassurance, and expert care. Their audiology team shares practical insight on recognizing symptoms early, protecting hearing, and knowing when it’s time to seek support.
WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON EARLY SIGNS OF HEARING LOSS THAT PEOPLE TEND TO BRUSH OFF?
Many people brush off early signs of hearing loss like turning the TV up, misunderstanding words, or feeling exhausted after conversations because they assume it is “just background noise” or “people mumbling.”
WHAT’S A MISCONCEPTION ABOUT HEARING LOSS YOU CORRECT MOST OFTEN?
A very common misconception is that hearing loss only affects "older people," when, in reality, it can happen at any age, and for a variety of different reasons.
HOW ARE BALANCE ISSUES CONNECTED TO THE INNER EAR, AND WHEN SHOULD SOMEONE SEEK AN EVALUATION?
Balance issues often start in the inner ear’s tiny vestibular (balance) system, and you should get checked if you feel dizzy, unsteady, swaying, or like the floor moves when it shouldn’t.
WHAT IS TINNITUS AND IS IT SERIOUS?
Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) is common, but that doesn't mean you should ignore it. It can be related to hearing loss, noise exposure, stress, or even jaw tension. While it's rarely a sign of something dangerous, it is worth evaluating, especially if it is constant, one-sided, or impacting your
sleep. There are management options that truly help soothe tinnitus, and it starts with a tinnitus evaluation.
MY HEARING ISN'T WHAT IT USED TO BE, ARE HEARING AIDS THE ONLY OPTION TO HEAR BETTER?
Absolutely. Hearing changes can have many causes and not all of them require hearing aids. Sometimes it's as simple as earwax buildup or fluid behind the eardrum. A hearing evaluation is the first step in understanding what's going on and what your options are, whether that's monitoring, simple solutions, or a conversation about future needs.
FOR SOMEONE HESITANT ABOUT HEARING AIDS, WHAT ADVANCEMENTS IN TECHNOLOGY MIGHT SURPRISE THEM?
Modern hearing aids are tiny, smart, Bluetooth compatible, and more like mini wearable computers than the bulky devices people remember.
WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN OVER-THE-COUNTER DEVICES AND THOSE FITTED BY A SPECIALIST?
Over-the-counter hearing aids can be helpful for very mild hearing loss, but they do not replace the benefits of a custom hearing evaluation and professional fitting. Professionally fit hearing aids are programmed to your individual hearing loss, adjusted for
comfort and clarity, and supported with expert care. It's always best to start with a hearing evaluation, you may not realize how much you're missing. Think of it like the difference between readers and prescription glasses, both have their place, but they're not the same.
HOW CAN UNTREATED HEARING LOSS IMPACT BRAIN HEALTH OR COGNITIVE FUNCTION OVER TIME?
Untreated hearing loss can strain the brain, increasing the risk of cognitive decline because the brain works overtime just to fill in missing sounds.
WHAT EVERYDAY HABITS CAN ACTUALLY PROTECT OR IMPROVE LONG-TERM HEARING HEALTH?
Your ears love healthy habits like turning down the volume, using ear protection, staying active, and managing overall wellness, all of which support long-term hearing.
WHAT SHOULD PATIENTS EXPECT DURING THEIR FIRST HEARING OR BALANCE ASSESSMENT?
During a first hearing or balance assessment, patients can expect an ear exam, listening tests in a quiet booth, and vestibular testing that tracks eye movements and balance responses, all done gently and clearly so they always know what is happening and why.
MENOPAUSE & HORMONES
Navigating perimenopause and menopause can be complex, bringing physical, emotional, and hormonal changes that affect energy, sleep, mood, and quality of life. Symptoms can overlap and evolve over time, so informed guidance is essential. As the only Menopause Society Certified Providers in Fort Smith, The Menopause Center offers women individualized treatment that helps them feel informed and empowered at every stage.
WHAT EARLY PERIMENOPAUSE SYMPTOMS ARE MOST OFTEN OVERLOOKED?
Early symptoms such as anxiety, sleep issues, brain fog, irritability, cycle changes, and subtle temperature shifts, are often mistaken for stress or aging. Many women also expect menopause to begin much later, so these hormonal changes go unrecognized for years, delaying needed support and treatment.
HOW DO YOU DETERMINE WHETHER SOMEONE IS A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR HORMONE REPLACEMENT THERAPY?
We assess symptoms, medical history, and overall health to ensure there are no contraindications. A comprehensive lab panel evaluates hormone levels, thyroid function, and metabolic markers. Combining symptom patterns with objective testing allows us to safely design a personalized treatment plan that supports long-term wellness.
HOW HAS MODERN HORMONE THERAPY EVOLVED, AND WHY IS IT CONSIDERED SAFER TODAY?
Hormone therapy has advanced significantly. Bioidentical hormones now more closely match the body’s natural chemistry and offer a safer, more predictable response. Transdermal estrogen patches provide steady absorption without the clotting risks associated with older oral options, and the FDA’s recent removal of the
boxed warning reflects strong evidence of safety for most women. Women now have far safer and more effective options than in past decades.
WHAT NON-HORMONAL TREATMENTS OR LIFESTYLE CHANGES CAN HELP EASE SYMPTOMS?
Medications such as SSRIs, SNRIs, gabapentin, and Veozah can reduce hot flashes, while strength training, healthy sleep habits, and stress reduction also support symptom relief. These are good alternatives for those who prefer non-hormonal care, though modern hormone therapy remains the most effective and is very safe for most women.
HOW CAN WOMEN PROTECT LONG-TERM HEALTH DURING MENOPAUSE?
Declining estrogen affects bone density, brain function, and cardiovascular health. Women can support long-term wellness through strength training, adequate calcium and vitamin D intake, heart-healthy nutrition, quality sleep, and regular screenings. Modern hormone therapy offers meaningful protection for bone, brain, and heart health when started at the appropriate time.
WHY IS SPECIALIZED MENOPAUSE CARE SO IMPORTANT?
Specialized care provides the time, attention, and training many women don’t receive in traditional
settings. As Menopause Society Certified Providers, we are equipped to recognize the full spectrum of perimenopause and menopause symptoms, interpret hormone changes, and provide evidencebased treatments. Patients receive personalized, research-driven care instead of rushed or dismissive experiences.
WHAT CAN PATIENTS EXPECT DURING A FIRST VISIT AT THE MENOPAUSE CENTER?
Visits are thorough and unhurried. We review medical history, discuss every symptom, and talk through goals for care. Labs and vitals are taken, and we explain the entire hormone therapy process step by step. Patients leave with a personalized plan that may include hormone therapy, non-hormonal options, supplements, and lifestyle strategies—and with the feeling of being truly heard.
WHAT IS ONE MESSAGE YOU WISH EVERY WOMAN KNEW ABOUT THIS STAGE OF LIFE?
Perimenopause and menopause do not mean losing yourself. With the right support, modern therapy, and a provider who listens, this stage can become a time of strength, clarity, and renewed confidence. Women don’t have to push through or suffer in silence, evidence-based care can help them thrive.
For Women, By Women. Reclaiming Menopause Together.
At The Menopause Center, we understand firsthand the challenges that come with perimenopause and menopause. This isn’t just our profession—it’s our passion.
A Partner in Your Journey
From energy and confidence to sleep, mood, and even skin and hair, this stage touches every part of life. We’re here with personalized care, whether hormone therapy, non-hormonal options, or rejuvenation treatments, to help you feel your best.
Custom Treatment Plans
Your journey starts with a private consultation, no referral needed. Together with our nurse practitioners, you’ll create a plan tailored to your history, symptoms, and goals. Flexible payment options like Cherry and Klarna make care simple and stress-free.
COMMON MENOPAUSE SYMPTOMS
Hair & Skin Changes
Hot Flashes & Night Sweats
Irregular Periods & Mood Changes
Joint & Muscle Pain
Sleep Disturbances & Cognitive Changes
Vaginal Dryness & Discomfort
Weight Gain & Metabolism Changes
LIFE-CHANGING SOLUTIONS
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
Hair Loss Treatment
You deserve to feel your best at every stage of life. At The Menopause Center, we’re here to make sure you do. To start your journey, visit menopausecenterfortsmith.com.
6230 Massard Rd., Fort Smith
479.551.2218 I menopausecenterfortsmith.com
Medical Weight Loss
Medication Management
Non-Hormonal Treatment Options
Symptom Management
Vaginal Rejuvenation
MENTAL WELLNESS
Mental wellness plays a vital role in our daily lives, shaping how we manage stress, navigate relationships, make decisions, and respond to change. And yet, emotional health concerns often go unrecognized or unaddressed until they begin to affect our overall well-being. Fort Smith Therapy offers supportive insights to help guide that journey.
WHAT SHOULD SOMEONE EXPECT DURING A FIRST COUNSELING SESSION?
A first session is an introduction meant to help you ease into the process. Your therapist explains how sessions work, what to expect going forward, and how you’ll work together. You’ll discuss goals and share a few parts of your story—relationships, childhood, and key experiences—only what feels comfortable. The real purpose is building connection and creating a safe space to begin.
WHAT ARE SOME OVERLOOKED SIGNS OF ANXIETY OR DEPRESSION?
Anxiety and depression often appear in subtle ways. Irritability, difficulty concentrating, withdrawing from others, or feeling overwhelmed by everyday decisions are all common. For some, symptoms look like perfectionism or overachieving; for others, it’s persistent exhaustion that rest doesn’t ease. Many who seem “fine” are working hard internally. These quieter symptoms are just as meaningful as the more recognizable ones.
HOW CAN SOMEONE SUPPORT A LOVED ONE WHO ISN’T READY TO TALK?
Support begins with steady, gentle presence rather than pressure. Let them know you’re there without expecting them to open up. Small gestures like checking in, bringing a meal, or simply sitting with them,
create emotional safety. These quiet acts show they don’t have to face things alone. When people feel supported instead of pushed, they’re more likely to talk when they’re ready.
WHAT HELPS MAINTAIN MENTAL WELLNESS DURING STRESSFUL SEASONS?
During stressful times, simple habits matter most. Maintain a basic routine, get consistent sleep, eat nourishing meals, and add gentle movement like a short walk. Give yourself permission to simplify tasks and release the idea of powering through everything. Stay close to supportive people, set boundaries with those who drain you, and remember that reaching out for help is a sign of strength.
WHAT DAILY PRACTICES CAN IMPROVE EMOTIONAL RESILIENCE?
Resilience grows through small, intentional habits. A few minutes of deep breathing can help center you at the start of the day. Brief time outdoors often boosts clarity and mood. Allowing yourself to feel emotions instead of suppressing them reduces their weight. Gratitude, grounding exercises, or small moments of joy—like music or time with a pet—can gradually strengthen emotional stability.
WHAT’S SOMETHING YOU WISH MORE PEOPLE UNDERSTOOD
ABOUT COUNSELING?
Therapy isn’t about being “broken.”
It’s about understanding yourself more clearly, recognizing patterns, and exploring areas for growth. Progress isn’t always steady, and that’s normal. What matters is having a trusted partner walking beside you, offering insight and support. Therapy is collaborative and guided by your comfort level, your goals, and your readiness.
HOW CAN THERAPY HELP SOMEONE WHO ISN’T IN CRISIS BUT WANTS TO GROW?
Therapy is valuable for personal development. Many people seek counseling to strengthen relationships, build emotional skills, gain clarity, or navigate transitions. Having structured time for reflection can lead to meaningful, lasting change. You don’t need to be in distress to benefit; sometimes the strongest growth happens when life feels steady enough to explore new directions.
HOW DO LIFESTYLE FACTORS SUPPORT LONG-TERM MENTAL HEALTH?
Sleep, routine, and boundaries form the foundation of mental wellbeing. Consistent sleep supports mood and focus. A simple routine reduces daily stress and decision fatigue. Healthy boundaries protect emotional energy and help you show up more fully. Therapy can guide this work, but daily habits sustain it. When lifestyle and therapy align, long-term wellness becomes much more achievable.
Be the Best You Ever!
COMPASSIONATE SUPPORT
At Fort Smith Therapy, we provide a safe, welcoming space to explore emotions, reduce anxiety, and build healthier patterns. The therapists housed within Fort Smith Therapy support children, teens, and adults through life's challenges with compassion, skill, and a genuine commitment to helping you feel better.
CARE FOR EVERY STAGE OF LIFE
From play therapy to adult counseling, our team tailors treatment to your unique needs. We help individuals and families navigate stress, trauma, relationships, and personal growth. You don't have to do life alone; let us walk beside you with understanding and guidance.
HERE FOR THE RIVER VALLEY
Fort Smith Therapy proudly serves the River Valley with accessible, high-quality care. We offer in-person and telehealth appointments, flexible scheduling, and nonprofit assistance for those who qualify. When you're ready to take the next step, we're here to support you.
NATASHA CHEYENNE SHAWNDA
MOLLY
AVANLEA
AMBER
DONNA
DAWN
JOHN
AUDRA
TIM
PEYTON
FAMILY MEDICINE
From checkups to chronic care, primary care plays a vital role in keeping families healthy. Dr. Phomakay from Baptist Health Family Clinic-Ellsworth Road in Fort Smith shares advice on how to keep your family healthy.
WHAT ANNUAL SCREENINGS SHOULD FAMILIES PRIORITIZE?
Families should begin each year with a comprehensive annual wellness exam. This visit gives your provider a full picture of your overall health, updates your medical history, and ensures you’re on track with important age-appropriate screenings, such as blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes checks, and cancer screenings when recommended. An annual visit also provides an opportunity to discuss any new health concerns, set wellness goals, and plan preventive care for the year ahead. This proactive approach helps catch concerns early and maintains continuity of care.
WHAT LIFESTYLE HABITS HELP FAMILIES STAY HEALTHIER?
Staying healthy becomes far more manageable when families build small, consistent habits into their daily routines. Providers often encourage eating a balanced, nutrient-rich diet; incorporating regular physical activity; avoiding tobacco and limiting alcohol; and keeping vaccinations, including annual flu and COVID-19 boosters, up to date to help prevent illness. Maintaining a healthy weight, especially when advised for overall wellness, also plays an important role. Together, these simple, steady
habits can greatly improve long-term health and help families feel their best throughout the year.
WHEN SHOULD SOMEONE CHOOSE FAMILY MEDICINE VS. URGENT OR ER CARE?
Family medicine is ideal for routine and preventive care, chronic condition management, and annual exams. Urgent care is best for sudden but non-emergency concerns like viruses or minor injuries when your primary clinic isn’t available. The ER is necessary for serious or potentially life-threatening symptoms such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, or severe abdominal pain, all of which require immediate attention.
MOVEMENT & CREATIVE WELLNESS
Movement and creativity support whole-person wellness. The RIHWC shares insight into approachable ways to return to both.
WHAT TYPES OF CLASSES ARE BEST FOR SOMEONE EASING BACK INTO FITNESS AFTER TIME AWAY?
At the Arkansas Colleges of Health Education (ACHE) Research Institute Health & Wellness Center (RIHWC), gentle fitness classes like Yoga, Barre, and Adult Ballet are excellent options for easing back into movement. These sessions focus on balance, core strength, and flexibility, helping participants progress comfortably. Our Strength & Tone classes also offer beginner-friendly modifications, making
HOW DOES USING YOUR CREATIVITY SUPPORT WELLNESS?
Creative expression plays a meaningful role in overall wellbeing. Ceramics and appliedarts classes at the RIHWC offer a relaxing, hands-on way to unwind and explore new skills. Time in the Brenda and Anthony Altman Art Gallery in RIHWC adds an uplifting artistic element to the wellness experience, while cooking classes in
HOW DO GROUP CLASSES HELP WITH MOTIVATION AND ACCOUNTABILITY?
Group classes at the RIHWC foster a warm sense of community that keeps people motivated. Whether joining a fitness class, a creative workshop, or a session in the Teaching Kitchen, participants benefit from shared encouragement and positive energy. Being surrounded by others who are working toward similar goals helps people stay consistent, celebrate
Fitness
All
Discover fitness at the ACHE Research Institute Health and Wellness Center!
The RIHWC Fitness Center offers a variety of community exercise and dance classes available for all ability levels. Start where you are, move how you can!
PEDIATRIC CARE
Children’s health grows with consistent care. Premier Pediatrics shares guidance on prevention and long-term support.
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO HAVE A PEDIATRICIAN FOR MY CHILD?
A dedicated pediatrician provides specialized care tailored to children’s developmental, emotional, and physical needs. Because kids are constantly growing and changing, having a provider trained specifically in pediatric health ensures they receive the right care at every stage. Being an established patient also gives families a consistent medical home that offers same-day sick visits, onsite urgent care, phone guidance or nurse triage, and a long-term relationship with a provider who knows the child’s full history. That continuity supports better communication, early insight, and peace of mind for families.
HOW DOES A PEDIATRICIAN HELP WITH PREVENTION AND EARLY INTERVENTION?
Much of pediatric care focuses on prevention. Regular well-child visits allow providers to monitor development, give vaccinations, track growth and nutrition, and offer age-specific guidance for sleep, safety, and school success. Early detection of issues such as speech delays, learning challenges, asthma, or anxiety can make a significant difference in long-term health.
WHAT IF MY CHILD NEEDS A SPECIALIST OR ADDITIONAL SERVICES?
Your pediatrician coordinates every part of your child’s care. When specialist
referrals or diagnostic testing are needed, they oversee the process, ensure continuity, and advocate for your child across the healthcare system.
HOW DO I BECOME A PRIMARY CARE PATIENT AT PREMIER PEDIATRICS?
Becoming a patient is simple: call or text the office at 479-763-3050 to schedule a new-patient appointment. Your child’s first well-child visit may include a review of medical history, immunizations, growth, and development. From there, Premier Pediatrics becomes your ongoing medical home for routine care, sick visits, guidance, and support.
PREGNANCY SUPPORT
Pregnancy is a meaningful moment that calls for guidance, care, and support. 1st Choice Pregnancy Medical Center offers medical testing, ultrasound confirmation, and evidence-based guidance at no cost to women and families.
WHAT
CAN A WOMAN EXPECT
DURING
HER FIRST VISIT, AND HOW DO YOU SUPPORT WOMEN?
From the moment she walks through our doors, she’s welcomed with genuine warmth and compassion. Many clients arrive in crisis, and our goal is to offer love, support, clear information, and hope. We’re here not only to educate but to empower, helping her feel equipped to face her situation with confidence and the assurance that she’s not alone.
WHAT TYPES OF SUPPORT DO YOU OFFER?
Support doesn’t end with the first appointment. We walk alongside our
clients through pregnancy and beyond, offering education, resources, and encouragement tailored to their needs. Our goal is to help each woman feel prepared, supported, and empowered in whatever parenting path she chooses.
HOW DO YOUR PREGNANCY TESTING, ULTRASOUND CONFIRMATION, AND CONSULTATIONS AID YOUR CLIENTS?
We offer pregnancy testing and limited ultrasound to confirm a viable pregnancy, along with consultations that help her clearly understand her next steps. Additional services include STD testing and treatment, certain early-pregnancy support
Real Support Starts Here.
1st Choice Pregnancy Medical Center provides pregnancy medical services, referrals, and education to women and families experiencing an unexpected pregnancy or in need of additional support. We believe women have the right to get information from a resource that will not profit from their choice. All our services are confidential and available at no cost to you.
interventions, parenting classes, a baby boutique, and resources to guide her through the journey ahead.
WHY IS SERVING THE ENTIRE FAMILY AN IMPORTANT PART OF THE 1ST CHOICE MISSION?
Healthy families create healthy environments for mothers and children, so we serve both parents whenever possible. Our Men’s Program equips fathers through parenting classes and one-on-one mentoring with trained male advocates. By supporting men as leaders and caregivers, we help build stronger families and stronger futures for their children.
SELF-CARE & RECOVERY
Rejuvenation therapies play a vital role in whole-body wellness. Inner Peace Massage & Wellness brings expert care to each service, helping clients feel restored, refreshed, and at ease.
WHAT MAKES A MODERN WELLNESS CENTER SUCH AN IMPORTANT PLACE FOR REST AND RENEWAL?
Modern wellness centers are more important than ever because they offer intentional, science-supported environments for deep rest, recovery, and renewal—something increasingly hard to find in today’s busy, screendriven world. What sets today’s centers apart is how they combine holistic practices with advanced therapeutic technologies such as HBOT (Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy), cryotherapy, red light therapy, and wet and dry saunas. These tools help you recover faster, feel healthier, and restore balance.
From athletic recovery to everyday wellness, our therapies support healing, balance, and better movement.
HOW DO WELLNESS EQUIPMENT AND MASSAGE THERAPY WORK TOGETHER TO CREATE DEEPER RELAXATION?
Wellness equipment and massage therapy work together by preparing, enhancing, and extending the body’s natural relaxation response, creating a deeper and more restorative experience. Technologies such as red-light therapy, HBOT, cryotherapy, and wet and dry saunas help loosen muscles, increase circulation, and calm the nervous system before a massage begins. Once the body is warmed, oxygenated, and relaxed, massage promotes a feeling of deep safety and ease.
HOW DO WELLNESS TECHNOLOGIES AND FACIAL TREATMENTS ENHANCE OVERALL SKIN HEALTH?
Wellness technologies such as red-light therapy, steam, wet and dry saunas, and even oxygen-based treatments like HBOT, help condition the skin before a facial, allowing for exfoliation, extractions, and nutrient infusion during the facial itself. Using equipment before or after a treatment enhances both comfort and results. Before a facial, the skin becomes more relaxed and responsive; afterward, technologies like red light therapy soothe the skin and reduce redness, helping the skin heal and glow.
Local businesses are the heartbeat of the River Valley. Our annual Locally Owned Guide highlights the entrepreneurs who pour passion into our community every day. Share your story with readers who love supporting the businesses that make our region unique.
CATHERINE FREDERICK / 479.782.1500 / CATHERINE@DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM
Do South® Sponsored Content
LOCALLY OWNED GUIDE LEGAL LEADERS
Legal Leaders spotlights the attorneys and firms who guide, advocate, and protect individuals and businesses throughout the River Valley. Share your expertise and elevate your practice with a profile designed to build trust and connection with our readers.
Read Chair Publishing, LLC
4300 Rogers Avenue, Suite 20, PMB 110 Fort Smith, AR 72903
FORT SMITH’S PREMIER FINE JEWELER
Serving Fort Smith as the only Certified Gemologist Appraiser and your locally owned and family operated jeweler for 26 years.
