Sidekick - August 2019

®

SIDEKICK

August 2019 DoSouthMagazine.com

02

august

Contents 04 08

Pets Adoption:

Almost Home

13 14 20 52

Publisher’s Letter

Salvation Army Shop Local Let Me Go Home Never Too Late

{ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT}

06 August Events 07 5 Live Events 12 Get Bookish 42 August Festivals

{HEALTH}

10

Building a Healthy Life

{PEOPLE}

16 24 33

Rollin’ with the Big Dog

A Night in the Garden

Fruits of Summer Pineapple Dream

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

August in the Garden

{ T R AV E L }

Love on Flower Street

{TASTE}

36 40

31

46 48

Gone to the Dogs

{ FA I T H }

16

{GARDEN}

Mount Nebo State Park Arkie Travels: Petit Jean State Park

{SPECIAL FEATURE}

56

Back to School

OUR COVER Ultimutt Dog Care

04

publisher's letter

Ch-ch-ch-ch-changes For many of us, August is a bittersweet turning point in the calendar year as it brings change to our world. It means we are more than halfway through another trip around the sun, summer vacations are in the books, and for many of us our thoughts turn to screeching alarm clocks, school supplies, schedules and routines.

Soon, it will be September, the scorching summer sun will give way to fall and the holidays will be nipping our heels. Knowing summer will begin to fade has me savoring every second of it I can!

As we finalized this month’s publication, I realized we had captured all the things I love most. Kids. Home. Romance. Dogs. Flowers. Food. Arkansas. Fun. All this and more are just waiting for you in the following pages of Do South®!

We’ve packed this issue with delicious recipes, fun places to explore in The Natural State, festivals you can’t miss, and amazing people right here in our community

August 2019 OWNER - PUBLISHER - EDITOR Catherine Frederick COPY EDITING Charity Chambers GRAPHIC DESIGN Artifex 323 – Jessica Meadors CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Jade Graves CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Alicia Agent, Jennifer Battles, Catherine Frederick, Dwain Hebda, Sarah & Paul Heer, Megan Lankford, Sarah Phillips, Sara Putnam, Leisel Schmidt, Jessica Sowards, Stoney Stamper ADVERTISING INFORMATION Catherine Frederick I 479.782.1500 catherine@dosouthmagazine.com

whose stories you’ll never forget. Plus our very special Back to School feature, full of local businesses who can’t wait to make your life - and all its changes - a whole lot easier.

Soak up these last few drops of summer, my friends, and don’t forget to share pictures of your adventures with me – drop me a line at catherine@dosouthmagazine.com,

©2019 Read Chair Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved. The opinions contained in Do South® are exclusively those of the writers and do not represent those of Read Chair Publishing, LLC. as a whole or its affiliates. Any correspondence to Do South® or Read Chair Publishing, LLC., including photography, becomes the property of Read Chair Publishing, LLC. Do South® reserves the right to edit content and images. Printed in the U.S.A. | ISSN 2373-1893

or tag Do South® on social media. I can’t wait to catch a glimpse of all your summer fun. See you in September!

Catherine Frederick

Owner/Publisher/Editor

catherine@dosouthmagazine.com

FOLLOW US Annual subscriptions are $36 (12 months), within the contiguous United States. Subscribe at DoSouthMagazine.com or mail check to 4300 Rogers Avenue, Suite 20-110, Fort Smith, AR, 72903. Single issues are available upon request.

Inquiries or address changes, call 479.782.1500.

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

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

06

calendar

Fan Mail

The Calendar August 2019

Send comments and suggestions to catherine@dosouthmagazine.com.

Never Stop Playing I discovered Do South® Magazine on a trip to Fort Smith Friday. I like it!

Rarely do I travel to Fort Smith, and I am much more familiar with some of the magazines from the Little Rock area. But next time I am in Fort

August 17 8th Annual Teal Night in Tahiti Fort Smith Convention Center Fort Smith, Arkansas

Smith, I will definitely be on the lookout for Do South®.

I especially enjoyed your "Never Stop Playing" column. We all need to embrace that child in each of us. Plus, I think playing helps us avoid taking ourselves too seriously all the time.

Take care and I wish you continued success with Do South®.

Sincerely, ~Tommy Mumert

Assistant Professor of Journalism Arkansas Tech University

August 8-12 Benton County Fair Benton County Fairgrounds Bentonville, Arkansas

Contest Go to dosouthmagazine.com, click on our “Contests” button at the top of the page. All who enter will be subscribed to our mailing list. Please see rules and policies on our Contests page!

Do South® Magazine

What’s better than enjoying Do South® Magazine every single month? How about having it delivered right to your door?

Enter to win a twelve-month subscription to your favorite CODE: DOSOUTH

Congrats Congrats to our contest winner from July!

Olde Fashioned Foods $25 Gift Card: Cindy Thurman

August 3

August 6, 17 Fort Smith Summer Artisan Market Ross Pendergraft Park Fort Smith, Arkansas

(Deadline is August 15)

magazine – Do South®!

August 3 Wingstock Chicken Wing Festival Verizon Arena North Little Rock, Arkansas

August 10 4th Annual Ales for Trails Craft Beer Festival Garrison Avenue Fort Smith, Arkansas August 10 Cinema Night Fort Smith Regional Art Museum Studio Fort Smith, Arkansas August 17 Northwest Arkansas Bluegrass Festival Beacon Park Harrison, Arkansas

9th Annual Petropolitan Hardscrabble Country Club Fort Smith, Arkansas August 25 Rogers Frisco Festival Downtown Rogers Rogers, Arkansas August 26 Fayetteville Roots Festival Walton Arts Center Fayetteville, Arkansas August 31 Hot Springs Blues and Jazz Festival 629 Central Avenue Hot Springs, Arkansas

August 23-25 27th Annual Volkswagen Weekend Eureka Springs (around town) Eureka Springs, Arkansas

Submit your events to catherine@dosouthmagazine.com.

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

L ive !

5

calendar

Don’t-Miss August Concerts

1

AUGUST 15

2

AUGUST 23

Thomas Rhett's Very Hot Summer Tour Countr y Music Association Male Vocalist of the Year nominee Thomas Rhett will make nearly forty stops on his Ver y Hot Summer Tour. Joining him are his dad, Rhett Atkins, as well as Dustin Lynch and Russell Dickerson.

Walmart Amp Rogers, Arkansas

Smashing Pumpkins & Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds Alternative rock band the Smashing Pumpkins is hitting the road with Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds for a sixteen date tour of outdoor performances around North America, with special guests, AFI. Walmart Amp Rogers, Arkansas

3

4

AUGUST 23

Chris Stapleton’s All-American Road Show American singer-songwriter, guitarist, and record producer Chris Stapleton’s AllAmerican Road Show is back for its third year straight. Joining Chris on his All-American Road Show Tour are special guests Brent Cobb and The Marcus King Band.

Verizon Arena North Little Rock, Arkansas

AUGUST 30

Sheryl Crow, Jason Isbell & The 400 Unit A nine-time Grammy ® award recipient, Sheryl Crow is an American music icon.

Her nine studio albums have sold thirtyfive million copies worldwide and seven of them charted in the Top 10 and five were certified for Multi-Platinum sales.

Walmart Amp Rogers, Arkansas

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

5

AUGUST 31

Rascal Flatts Forever Summer Playlists Tour This hitmaking trio embarks on their massive tour and they ’re bringing along some friends! Lee Brice, Billy Currington, Jordan Davis, Jimmie Allen, Morgan Evans and LoCash will join the superstar group as support acts at select dates.

Walmart Amp Rogers, Arkansas

07

08

pets

It's All About the Dogs!

F

M

F

Faith

Frank

M

F

Lola

M

Levi

Trouper

Rascal

Almost Home Shelter and Rescue 3390 Pointer Trail East - Van Buren, AR | Tom Hill 479.414.3781 | Almost Home Shelter and Rescue is a 501C-3 Non-Profit all volunteer staffed facility. They work in partnership with Van Buren Animal Control to find loving, forever homes for the dogs in their care. All dogs will be spayed or neutered and up to date on vaccines when adopted. Please consider adopting or fostering one of their sweet pets.

Mutts & Melodies — Saturday, August 24, King Opera House in Van Buren, Arkansas Lee Ellen Starks, Van Buren native and resident of Nashville, Tennessee, performs at 7pm. Enjoy a silent auction at 6pm, light refreshments provided. Admission by donation. Contact Connie Martin, 479.461.4199.

Sponsors: Hubbs Animal Clinic, Pointer Trail Animal Clinic, and River Valley Hospital.

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

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

10

health

BUILDING A

Healthy Life WORds and images courtesy Alicia Agent, Director Marketing Communications Baptist Health – Fort Smith

Mary Washington Before

Mary Washington After

Mary Washington listed all the tools she’d used over the

and spent summers like a lot of kids in the South – running

years to try to build a healthy body.

and swimming outdoors with friends. But after losing her mother as a teenager, her health started to take a turn.

“Atkins, Weight Watchers, South Beach Diet, Jenny Craig, “She was always like our ‘healthy barometer,’ but after she

Keto, low calorie, low carb, low fat...”

died, I didn’t really have the parental guidance and knowledge “Girl, it’d be easier to tell you what I hadn’t tried.”

of how to prepare nutritious meals, even though I knew I should have been eating better,” Mary said.

The forty-seven-year-old registered nurse at Baptist HealthFort Smith spent more than twenty years trying to recreate

Later on, an unhealthy marriage led to an unhealthy

herself and become the kind of wife and mother she’d always

relationship

wanted to be: a healthy one.

her emotions.

“Maybe I can still do this on my own,” she told herself, taking

“I didn’t get heavy until after my first child,” she said. “I

another shot at the next best diet and exercise plan. At her

pretty much just ate my feelings. Food was always like my

largest, Washington weighed about two hundred fifty-seven

comfort tool. I could depend on it.”

with

food,

as

Washington

coped

with

pounds and wore a size twenty in women’s clothing. By the time she was in her forties she was suffering from high blood

But like a lot of women, Washington put the focus on

pressure, tingling in her feet and chronic pain in her joints.

raising her children in addition to learning to fall in love again with her now-husband, Kenny. How to lose

“I have a family history of heart disease and diabetes, so as a

the weight for good stayed in the back of her mind.

nurse, I knew where I was headed,” Washington said.

Washington knew she could still do it but needed the support of health care professionals.

Washington never had a problem maintaining a healthy weight when she was younger. She played sports in school

It was time to try a different tool like bariatric surgery to lose

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

health

weight. Countless hours of online research left her feeling informed and confident about surgery, but she struggled

Dr. Gooden says weight loss surgery is a tool to help you be

finding a physician she felt she could trust.

successful, but like any tool, if it is not used properly, it is not effective. He points to snacking and sugary drinks as two major

“Over the years, I went to around four consultations, but could

hindrances of weight loss after surgery.

never find anyone I was comfortable with,” Washington said.

“It’s not the easy way out, a quick fix or a decision you take

“I wanted to do it, but I was still scared.”

lightly,” Washington said. “It’s a surgery and afterward you Michael Gooden, M.D., a surgeon at Baptist Health Surgical

have to be willing to follow a meal and exercise plan, as well

Clinic-Lexington Avenue in Fort Smith, Arkansas, helps patients

as adjust to the physical changes to your body and how it

achieve their weight loss goals through bariatric surgery. As

mentally affects you and even your loved ones. If you do all

a nurse on a post-surgical floor, Washington saw firsthand

that, you’ll see results.”

the quality of Dr. Gooden’s work as she cared for his bariatric Now at a healthy weight for her body, Washington is able to

surgery patients.

try new things like roller derby and has a goal of running a “I got to see how well they recovered and how he treated his

marathon. Instead of turning to food like before, she works

patients; it made me feel more comfortable,” she said.

her feelings out at Zumba and high intensity interval training (HIIT) classes at the gym.

Washington attended one of the free informational seminars hosted by Dr. Gooden at the hospital and knew she’d finally

Michael Gooden, M.D.

“Looking back, I realized, I wasn’t

found a physician and health care team she could trust. She

living; I wasn’t a participant in

underwent weight loss surgery in August of 2017 and lost more

life,” Washington said of her

than one hundred pounds.

health before surgery. “There’s not a single thing I would have

Dr. Gooden performs two types of bariatric procedures: sleeve

changed about my experience

gastrectomy and gastric bypass. Both options offer positive

at Baptist Health-Fort Smith or

results, and Dr. Gooden and his staff strive to educate patients,

with Dr. Gooden’s team. It’s

so they are able to choose for themselves.

not an easy journey, but oh, so worth it.”

Many requirements for bariatric surgery are set by insurance companies but generally adults over twenty-five with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of thirty-five or greater who suffer from one or more health issues such as diabetes, high blood pressure or sleep apnea may also qualify for weight loss surgery.

Additionally, those with a BMI greater than forty, even without other medical problems, are candidates.

Baptist Health Surgical Clinic-Lexington Avenue From genetics to learned behaviors, there are many factors

923 Lexington Avenue, Fort Smith, Arkansas

contributing to obesity, and according to Dr. Gooden you have

479.709.7350

to get to the root cause of weight gain to be successful in longterm weight loss. Dr. Gooden's team of providers including a psychologist and dietitian work with patients ensuring they are prepared for life after surgery. Patients also have a dedicated bariatric coordinator guiding them through each step of the process providing education and support.

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

11

12

entertainment

Get words and Image courtesy Bookish

BOOKISH

Five must-read book recommendations from our friends at Bookish, Fort Smith, Arkansas’s only independently owned book store.

Normal People

The Plaza

Mrs. Everything

Furious Hours

The Travelers

by Sally Rooney

by Julie Satow

by Jennifer Weiner

by Casey Cep

by Regina Porter

Rooney’s second novel is full of “psychological acuity amidst sparse prose.” It seems like an age-old story, the captain of the high school football team conceals his relationship with the shy, quiet girl, but as the years and the book progress each must decide how to define their relationship.

As the title suggests, you’ll ask yourself if anyone is really normal.

Satow, an awardwinning journalist, uncovers the intrigue of The Plaza. Whether it conjures images of F. Scott Fitzgerald frolicking in the fountain or a Russian oligarch checking into the most luxurious penthouse in 2007, Satow dishes out the goods on all of The Plaza’s exciting visitors, its owners, and the money trail.

If you’d prefer to read a seasoned author, Weiner is just for you. Starting in 1950s Detroit, Weiner shows us just how different two sisters can be. In the face of traumas and tragedies, will Jo, the tomboy, or Bethie, the feminine good girl, be able to overcome and find true joy? Through it all, they have different goals and dreams, but as they age, they work to answer the same question: What does it take to be a woman in this world?

The subtitle of the book, Murder, Fraud, and the Last Trial of Harper Lee, says it all! This book is as intriguing as Harper Lee herself. Broken into three parts, the reader is first introduced to the crimes of Rev. Willie Maxwell, a rural preacher accused of murdering his family members for money, and the writer, Lee, who was set on writing about the case. This nonfiction book is a must-read if you like true crime, history, or Harper Lee.

This debut novel travels through time and place beautifully and intimately. With a cast of unforgettable characters whose lives intersect in places like Coney Island, France, Vietnam, and even Buckner County, Georgia, Porter’s love letter to storytelling does more than just tell a story. It is an exploration of what it means to be American today. While it’s a bit experimental in format, it’s a whole lot of fun!

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

community

Our Community Cares

DS: The Salvation Army helps our community in a variety of ways. Can you tell us

words Catherine Frederick with Susan Adams, Volunteer Coordinator, The Salvation Army Fort Smith

DS: What housing and homeless services do you offer in our community?

how The Salvation Army helps with hunger relief?

We provide nonperishable items to clients in our social service office. If we receive donations of fresh produce or bread, we offer those as well. We also provide a meal at 6pm each night, except Sunday and Wednesday, when dinner is served at 5pm. Anyone who is hungry can join us for a hot meal and friendly conversation.

A little over a year ago we transitioned our shelter into a women and women with children only shelter. We work with the other shelters in our area to make sure that anyone who comes to us in need of shelter is taken care of.

DS: The bell ringers with red kettles are very active at Christmas time. Please tell us how the funds raised at this time are used.

Eighty-seven-and-one-half cents from every dollar raised from the Red Kettle

The Salvation Army exists to meet human need wherever, whenever, and however they can. They meet human need without discrimination, assisting approximately 25 million Americans annually and serving in 130 countries around the globe. They have over 1.5 million members consisting of officers, soldiers, and adherents and have been pursuing their mission since 1865.

Do South® reached out to Susan Adams, Volunteer Coordinator, The Salvation Army Fort Smith, to learn more.

campaign stays local to fund all the services we provide throughout the year, such as buying food for the Red Shield Diner, shelter costs, helping pay utilities for clients, sending kids to summer camp, and providing gifts to nursing home residents.

DS: If our readers wish to volunteer, what opportunities do you offer and how can they sign up?

To volunteer, call or text 479.285.0818 or email susan.adams@uss.salvationarmy. org. We need volunteers to cook and serve meals, sort donations, prepare pantry bags and stock shelves. Volunteers may also help plant, pick or weed our garden.

DS: If our readers would like to make a financial donation, how should they do so?

To make a financial donation, you can mail a check to our office at 301 N. 6th Fort Smith, AR 72901, or online at salvationarmyfs.org.

DS: Do you accept donations, other than financial? If so, how can our readers

The Salvation Army Fort Smith

help? What do you need?

301 N. 6th Street

We accept donations of household goods, furniture and clothing. To schedule pick

Fort Smith, Arkansas

up of these items, please call the family store at 479.783.2454. We also accept

479.783.6145

vehicles. The title must be provided and insurance must be current. We also take

salvationarmyfs.org

food donations from restaurants and grocery stores to use in our Red Shield Diner.

DS: Is there a special event or fundraiser coming up our readers should know about?

We hold one fundraiser per year, Red Kettle Campaign. We host several events Next month, we’ll showcase another worthy charity in our area free of charge. If you have a non-profit you’d like to see recognized, email us at catherine@dosouthmagazine.com.

throughout the year such as our canned food drive with the public schools, the annual community Thanksgiving meal, and the Angel Tree program. The Salvation Army is a church and we hold services on our campus! Service times are as follows: Sunday School 9:45am, Worship Service 10:45am, and Wednesday Men's, Women's and Children's Ministries at 6:00pm.

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

13

14

shop

ESCAPE THE HEAT! words Catherine Frederick imageS Jade Graves Photography and courtesy vendors

Hayley Paige for Hearts On Fire Collection, Harley Wrap Power Band, 18kt Gold, Pink Sapphire and Diamond Band

JOHN MAYS JEWELERS 479.452.2140

HearMuffs Baby Hearing Protection by Lucid Audio Muffle the Noise, Comfort Your Child, and Feature a Unique Comfort Switch that Lets Voices be Heard Without Removing the Muffs

CENTER FOR HEARING 479.785.3277

Flyway Brewing Honeybird Blonde Ale, Lost Forty Brewing Dig the Ride Trail Ready IPA and 2nd Rodeo Beer

SODIE’S WINE & SPIRITS

Oliver Peoples Eyewear

DR. STEVEN B. STILES OPTOMETRY

479.783.8013

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

479.452.2020

shop

Looking to get out of the house but want to avoid the summer swelter? Spend a day visiting our beloved advertisers and check out what they have in store, just be sure and tell them Do South® sent you!

On the Rocks® Premium Cocktails: The Old Fashioned, The Jalapeño Pineapple Margarita, The Aviation, The Margarita, The Mai Tai

IN GOOD SPIRITS 479.434.6604

Nush Bars, Choc Zero Sugar Free Dark Chocolate Almonds, Lakanto Sugar Free Syrup, Birch Bender Keto Pancake and Waffle Mix

OLDE FASHIONED FOODS 479.782.6183 / 479.649.8200

Farm Themed Throw Pillows

JENNIFER’S GIFT SHOP BAPTIST HEALTH-FORT SMITH 479.441.4221

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

15

16

people

GONE TO THE D O G S

U L T I M U T T D O G C A R E T U R N S 1 0!

WORDs Liesel Schmidt images courtesy Ultimutt Dog Care

Designer pet leashes; dog strollers; gourmet pet food made

company. Then, we come home to pets that are starved

with fresh, organic, all natural ingredients. It doesn’t take a

for attention, affection and activity, making us feel guilty

genius to figure out that people are extremely dedicated to

that we only have so many hours in the day to give them

their pets, giving them all the love and care they would a

what they need. It’s a reality that most pet owners face, and

member of the family. Really, they are a member of the family;

finding a satisfying solution often seems impossible.

and for some people, those furry, four-legged creatures are It was the desire to offer that solution that led friends Brook

even the next best thing to having a child.

Borengasser and Mary Young to open Ultimutt Dog Care many

in August of 2009, using their own love of dogs and their

responsibilities on our plates, we humans don’t always have

personal experiences as busy dog owners as inspiration

the amount of time to spend with our pets that we’d like.

in creating a business that would meet a need in the area.

We have to leave them home for hours at a time while we

Knowing just how challenging it was to find daily care for their

go to work, keeping them pent up inside or confined to a

dogs while they managed long work schedules, they put their

small outdoor space, with no one and nothing to keep them

minds together and came up with a plan for something that

Admittedly,

with

our

busy

schedules

and

so

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

people

would provide everything they’d want for their own beloved

the pet industry, they both felt confident that they had what it

dogs and more; and in doing so, they created far more than a

took to make their dream a success—and that their friendship

company—they created a family.

could withstand the tests they would inevitably face. And while they might not have initially had the budget to hire a staff while

“In our previous jobs, we always felt guilty that our dogs were

they got things off the ground, they did have the support and

in a crate for eight hours a day while we were at work. They

encouragement of their families, as well as some sage advice

were young and needed social interaction and exercise, but

that they took to heart. “Our parents knew that we were best

Mary’s dog was ninety pounds at the time, and there weren’t

friends, and Mary’s dad owned his own business, so he knew

many places that could board a dog of his size,” explains

what kind of stresses that can involve,” says Brook. “He sat us

Brook, whose own miniature Schnauzer, Mack, and black lab

both down before we opened and had a conversation with us

Avery come to work with her everyday, now that she’s the

about how much we’d be together all day, every day; and he

boss. “We realized that we weren’t the only ones who were

made us promise him that even if we got into a disagreement at

crazy about our pets and wanted a place for them to run and

work, once 6:00 pm came, we’d leave it at work and go have a

play all day, but at the time, there weren’t any large doggie

glass of wine together and always stay friends.”

daycares or open-play boarding facilities in the area.”

To merely call them “friends” might not quite do the depth While others might simply have lived with that frustration,

of their relationship justice, so closely do they rely on one

Brook and Mary had their Aha! moment, recognizing the very

another—especially now that their business has increased

thing that so often gave them guilt as an opportunity—and a

so exponentially. On the cusp of celebrating their tenth

calling. “Amazingly enough, God put the idea in each of our

anniversary this August, they’ve never strayed from the initial

hearts; and then one day, we were at a pool party and started

vision of creating “a safe place where a dog can be a dog

talking about the fact that we’d both been wanting to open a

and socialize with friends,” as Brook says, though Ultimutt

doggie daycare. I don’t think we stopped talking about it for

has certainly become a larger operation than they might have

the rest of the night,” says Mary, whose three dogs—black

initially dreamed possible. They’ve expanded their facility

lab, Suzy; Australian Shepherd mix, Peyton; and “pure pound

by adding additional indoor play areas, a 4,000 square foot

puppy,” Daisy—are also on the job everyday, helping keep the

outdoor AstroTurf area dedicated to small dogs, and a 5,000

other pups busy and socializing.

square foot AstroTurf-ed outdoor space dedicated to large dogs. And in addition to offering daycare services, they also

Despite the fact that neither of them had any previous

offer overnight boarding for dogs and cats and run a full

experience in owning their own business nor in working in

grooming shop headed up by a pet stylist with twenty years

Brook & Mary

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

Brook & Mary

17

18

people

answers on the exact cause of the strokes. Since then, she has suffered a total of six strokes as well as a grand mal seizure that left her unresponsive and several small seizures. Now thirty-five, Brook will be on blood thinners and seizure medications for the rest of her life. “I know how blessed I am for being able to walk away from all of that with minimal damage. When I get tired or stressed, it takes a little bit for my memory to kick in; but other than that, God has protected me!”

Brook isn’t the only one who marvels at God’s protection, as Mary has also faced more than her share of medical issues. Her oldest was born with a congenital heart defect and had openheart surgery at six weeks old, while her youngest was born with only one kidney. “We’ve learned as business partners and best friends how to be there for each other,” says Brook. “Many times, that means continuing to run Ultimutt and not be at of experience working in some of the largest high-end salons

the hospital with the other. We’ve also learned that cuddling

in the Tulsa area.

a precious puppy can always make you laugh, that hugging a sweet older dog and sitting on the floor with them is the

“We provide a safe, clean, educational, and nurturing

best cry pillow you could ever need, that we can fully trust

environment for all our Ultimutts, while giving the owners

one another to have each other’s back, and that—no matter

peace of mind that they’re leaving their Ultimutts with excellent,

what—God has and will always continue to provide us with

caring, and knowledgeable personnel,” says Mary. And that

what we need in His time.”

personnel isn’t just any personnel; for Brook and Mary, their employees are like family. “Over the past decade, we’ve been blessed with the most amazing, hardworking, caring and loyal staff anyone could ever dream of,” she goes on. “Everyone who works here loves each of the dogs as if they were our own, and we love our customers, too! They’ve been so loyal to us over the years, and we’ve hugged and cried when they have moved or brought their beloved dog by to say goodbye on its final ride to the vet. Ultimutt really is a family comprised of lots of dogs, an amazing staff, and loving customers.”

It could well be said that all the love—along with a great deal of faith, dedication, and family support—they surround themselves with is the key to their success; but it’s also been their greatest strength in overcoming the battles they’ve encountered in their personal lives, as well. Battles that, had they been any less steadfast in their faith, might have been their undoing.

Less than a year after opening Ultimutt, Brook—then only twenty-six years old—suffered two major strokes and was told that she had a hole in her heart. Two months later, she

Ultimutt Dog Care 5703 South 73rd Place Fort Smith, Arkansas 479.242.1186 ultimuttdogcare.com

had heart surgery to repair the hole but was left without firm DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

20

people

LET ME GO

HOME words Stoney Stamper IMAGEs April Stamper

Stoney Stamper

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

I

people

“I’ve been to Reno, Chicago, Fargo, Minnesota,

As time went by, I became a seasoned veteran of the road. TSA

Buffalo,

Sarasota”…you

agents knew me by my first name at the airport. I knew without

know the words. Go ahead and sing along. But

Toronto,

Winslow,

looking it up which trains took me to the right locations in

I’m not just quoting the famous song by Johnny

New York City, Philadelphia, and Boston. I knew all the best

Cash, by the way. I’ve been to all those places.

places to eat. I knew which border crossings were easiest to

Heck, I’ve been to a lot more. For fifteen years,

get into Canada, and back into the United States. I even got

I traveled the United States and Canada, almost

detained once in a border crossing in Point Edward, Ontario

nonstop. My job took me all over the country. As

for about six hours, because of an unfortunate little scrape

a young man, I loved it. It was a great adventure

I’d gotten into with the law. Thankfully, after several hours of

and every day was exciting. I saw parts of the

deliberation, they decided I wasn’t a threat to national security

country that a small-town Oklahoma boy thought

and let me go. But I’ll be honest, even though I knew I hadn’t

he’d never see. I’ve had lobster rolls in Maine.

done anything wrong, being detained on international soil was

I’ve had gumbo in New Orleans. I’ve had chili in

still pretty darn nerve wracking.

Cincinnati, soft shell crabs on the Chesapeake Bay, and cheesesteak in Philadelphia. I’ve gone

In all those years of travel, of the lower forty-eight states of the

trout fishing in Montana, ice fishing in North

United States, I’ve been in forty-seven of them. I’m going to

Dakota, snow skiing in Colorado, New Mexico,

assume that’s quite a bit above average. Of course, I’ve never

Maine, and even Ohio (yes, they have snow skiing

considered myself to be an average bear. Don’t ask me how it

in Ohio), and surfing in Florida. I’ve watched

happened, but somehow, after all that traveling, I never made

herds of antelope graze in Arizona and traversed

it into the state of Washington. I’ve been under it, beside it,

the deserts of Utah and Nevada.

and above it. But that’s one border that I never crossed. I guess one of these days, I am going to have to jump on a plane and

I once got stuck in a blizzard in Buffalo, NY, for

fly to Seattle and spend a day or two, just so I can finally mark

five days, I was trapped in the hotel. There was

that one off my list.

a bar downstairs that opened at 11:00 am. Every day, for five straight days, I went down to the bar at 11:00, and stayed pretty much until bedtime listening to these awesome blues musicians, drinking too much whiskey, and eating potato soup, which was the only food they offered. It was bitterly cold, and the snow was so deep I couldn’t even see my rental car. It was just a giant mound of snow in the parking lot. Being from Oklahoma, I’d experienced the cold and I’d experienced some snow. But I’d never experienced this kind of snow. It seemed to be coming down in pre-made snowballs. Like God Himself was throwing them down at us. I remember calling my dad in amazement, telling him about it. I’m sure all the people that saw and heard me speak in my deep southern drawl during those five days must have wondered how this farm boy from Oklahoma came about being stuck in a hotel in upstate New

But here’s the deal. I burned myself out. I traveled so much, for so long, that eventually, it lost its appeal. All of the fun had been sucked out of me. There’s only so many times a guy can see the same things and go to the same places. Eventually it becomes mundane. I got tired of hearing, “Hey cowboy, where are you from?” I got tired of hotels and airports. But more than anything else, I got tired of being alone.

York. I am certain I looked out of place.

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

21

22

people

Almost my whole entire adult life at this point, had been

Having been born and raised in a family of preachers, I certainly

spent on the road, alone. There was one day in particular that

believed in the power of prayer. But I didn’t really believe in the

everything felt like it came crashing down, and I remember it

power of my prayer. When I listened to my grandfather pray

vividly. I was driving down the road in Coxsackie, New York.

from the pulpit, it seemed as if it went directly from his lips to

Yes, that’s a real place. Between New York City and Albany

God’s ears. It felt so powerful. But when I prayed, I felt kind

on the Hudson River. It’s a quaint little town and has this

of like that best friend that always needed to borrow money,

little place I loved to stop and grab a sandwich called The

even though he hadn’t paid you back from when you loaned

Yellow Deli. The ladies in there always remembered me and

it to him the last time. Like I was asking God for a favor, even

the food was delicious. I had stopped in for a chicken salad

though I knew that I had done nothing to deserve it. But still, I

sandwich, and then got back in my truck and headed north.

prayed. Even though I didn’t know one hundred percent what

I was bound for Montreal. As I drove through the cute little

I was praying for.

town, it reminded me of home. And then, as if on cue, the song Home, by Michael Bublé came on the radio. I’d heard

But as He often does, God taught me a very important lesson.

it many times before, but that day, the words hit me like

He listens to all prayers. From sinners and saints, alike. Because

a train. “Maybe surrounded by, a million people I, still feel

one day, as if written in a script, my wife April sprang into

all alone, I just want to go home.” Yes, that’s my second

my life, and she brought two little girls with her. It was like

song reference in this story, but it’s relevant. That was me.

He had reached down and handed me a perfect little gift-

That’s exactly how I felt. I was so lonely. I wanted to go

wrapped family. Apparently, that was what I had been praying

home. I missed my family. I missed sitting and having coffee

for all along.

with my dad and grandad, and golfing with my brother. But I didn’t know how to do it. I had carved out a pretty nice

Then, when I went home, I had something worthwhile waiting

career, but it relied on me being able to travel. And I didn’t

for me there. And I can’t remember the last time I felt alone.

want to do it anymore.

And all those years of traveling and hard work finally paid off, and I was given a job where travel is now rare. Every once in

While others told me how lucky I was to get to travel and see

a while, I’ll get a weird itch to go somewhere. To jump in the

so much, I dreamt of laying on my couch in my living room,

truck or get on a plane and head somewhere far away. And on

watching golf and having not a care in the world. That probably

those rare occasions that work does take me out of town, it’s

seems like a pretty lame dream, but it sounded like heaven to

fun for a bit, but it sure is a good feeling to know that it’s short-

me. I fretted over it, prayed about it, and it was constantly in

lived, and I’ll have my family waiting on me when I get back. I

the back of my mind.

guess it’s like the song says, “Just let me go home.”

Stoney Stamper Stoney Stamper is the best-selling author of My First Rodeo: How Three

Daughters, One Wife, and a Herd of Others Are Making Me a Better Dad (WaterBrook) and author of the popular parenting blog The Daddy Diaries. He and his wife, April, have three daughters and live in Oklahoma, where they are heavily involved in agriculture and raise and show a variety of animals.

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

24

people

Love on Flower Street words Liesel Schmidt imageS courtesy 27 Rue de Fleur

From the celebration of new life entering into the world to the marking of one leaving this earthly realm, flowers are a way to acknowledge an occasion. We send them to our loved ones to show them we care; we send them to ourselves to create an air of mystery. We buy them in bunches and buy them by the stem, knowing that whoever receives them will be receiving something far greater than a simple flower—they’ll be receiving affirmation that they are loved and in the heart and mind of the giver.

These fragrant blooms are a powerful sensory tool, their colors and shapes and scents the stuff that remains in our mind’s eye even long after the flowers themselves have faded. We begin to associate them with certain memories, like markers on the timeline of our lives that make us remember that one day…that one time… that one person. There’s a sentimentality that makes their natural beauty all the more compelling, which is why, in this day and age of all things digitized, the tangibility of a flower is something that has never lost its power.

For floral designers like Leah Musgrove, that power is something she feels from her fingertips to her soul, each piece she creates the work of love and passion that resonates in the finished product. In Leah’s hands, a flower isn’t just a flower—it’s a chance to design a masterpiece that will bring beauty to someone’s day, to craft a moment that will live forever in the memory of whoever receives what she has made. This is her art, and with every arrangement she executes, she’s making the world a more beautiful place.

“I really see my work as art, not just putting flowers together according to some predesigned plan that follows a formula so that they all turn out the same,” says Leah. “I invest a lot of emotion

Leah Musgrove

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

people

and feeling and beauty into each piece, and I fully believe others can feel that when they see what I've created.”

That emotion is clearly a powerful part of her success in her work, as—a mere two years after starting her business as a mobile flower cart that did pop-up shops throughout the area—she’s seeing her dream fully realized as she opens the flagship store for 27 Rue de Fleur, a name inspired by the street address of the flat owned by Ernest Hemingway’s favorite critic. It sounds romantic, the perfect moniker for a luxury floral boutique somewhere in Paris—which is exactly where Leah found herself standing when a client of hers flew her to France to create the floral arrangements for her destination wedding.

“Basically, it was like a dream come true,” Leah says. “A bride based in central Arkansas had seen my arrangements on Instagram and flew my husband and me out to France for her wedding at a chateau! It was a fairytale.”

Fairytales

aside,

there’s

a

personal

component to Leah’s work that goes beyond what she’s doing for her clients.

For Leah, there’s a therapeutic aspect in touching them, smelling them, and bringing

out

their

beauty.

“I

have

complex PTSD from different types of

that she follows no set plan when she creates her blossoming beauties.

childhood and adolescent trauma and

Rather, she lets her natural instincts guide her as she selects the perfect

being in nature has always been my safe

blooms for each piece. “I never took floral classes, though I would love to

space,” she explains. “Working with

travel to see some of my florist idols. I just sort of jumped in and taught

flowers—clipping and designing them

myself. I naturally have a creative eye, so pair that with gorgeous flowers,

and experiencing their fragrance—have

and you have a perfect match.”

all been very healing for me.”

A perfect match, indeed, and one that’s gaining her popularity with an Anyone who’s seen her arrangements is

increasing number of clients—everyone ranging from women who buy her

left with no doubt that she’s got talent,

flowers as a way of treating themselves to men who come to her seeking the

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

25

26

people

perfect way to show some love to their special someone.

Whether for the everyday or for a truly special occasion, however, people see something in Leah’s work that they don’t see anywhere else. “I’m always inspired by European garden design, so my florals are bespoke and romantic; and that’s something that was really missing in this area when I started this business,” she recalls.

As a former wedding photographer, Leah’s “jump” into the floral design industry could almost be considered a

"Seeing those pieces really inspired me and made me want to do something unique, and I think I've achieved that. You can give me the same types of flowers as another florist, and I will design a very modern and lush piece that looks nothing like the others, and people really respond to that."

natural shift, as she came to gain a greater understanding

Having now opened her first brick and mortar, Leah’s

of her medium through such frequent immersion in the

offerings at 27 Rue de Fleur include fresh flowers by

world of wedding wonders.

the stem, premade daily arrangements, and gorgeous custom-order pieces as well as subscription options for

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

people

clients to have weekly or bi-weekly flowers delivered to their home or office. “Everyone deserves to have beauty in their lives, and I love knowing that what I create is doing that,” says Leah, who sources most of her blooms from Holland and has them shipped overnight to ensure the highest quality and the greatest freshness.

It’s clear to see that, in every piece she creates, every stem she puts her hand to, Leah approaches her work with the same intensity of passion and love. It shines through in the liveliness of the color pallets, the pungency of the fragrances, the absolute vibrant life that seems to burst forth from every blossom and bloom and bud. Hers are far from mere arrangements—they’re a symbol of something that goes beyond words.

27 Rue de Fleur 2801 Old Greenwood Road, Suite 15 Fort Smith, Arkansas 479.420.9651

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

27

28

faith

Words and images Jessica Sowards

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

faith

I

I sat in the garden until after dark tonight. I rarely do. Kids need dinner and baths. The laundry needs to be moved over and the kitchen needs to be cleaned up. But tonight, I stayed out and left the rest to wait.

The air hung thick, like some heavy and suffocating thing. Like a wool blanket. Like the tar they used to fill the cracks of the street in front of my childhood home. I pulled a chair there, right in the middle of the garden. Surrounded by tomato plants heavy with unripe fruit and sunflowers flirting with the idea of opening, I just laid my head back and shut my eyes and let the weight of a summer evening find every crevice of my skin.

During the day, our alpacas raise their funny little voices at everything they think is a threat, which is pretty much everything. The goats bleat and scream, whatever they think they have to do to get us to slip them a treat. The dogs bark and the roosters crow and the sound of our domesticated farm fills the air. At night though, the farm settles to a hum and the forest surrounding it begins to sing. Tonight in the garden, the din of the wild things grew so loud, my bones vibrated with it. Every year, by Christmas, I forget the deafening sound of cicadas. So on summer nights like this one, I try to let it etch itself into my mind a little deeper.

I read an article once about the electrical currents flowing through our bodies and how it does our brain good to be barefoot on the earth. They called it grounding. I remembered it tonight, slipped my shoes off and felt the ground come in

with my hair curling in a frizzy halo around my sweaty brow

contact with my soles. Even the soil was hot tonight.

and with a few glowing bugs dancing around me. There, with my eyes closed and my palms lifted to heaven, my heart

Sweat beaded up along my forehead and as the sky turned

uttered a prayer of thanks for which words fell utterly short

a deeper grey-blue, the fireflies came out. First there were

of encompassing.

just a few, blinking and bobbing about the garden in some silent game of Marco Polo. I picked up my camera to try

Sometimes I think when we plant ourselves in these moments,

to capture them on video and then just as quickly, I tossed

refusing to let them slip by, refusing to do anything but awe

it on the ground, just out of my reach. Sometimes it takes

at them, permission is granted. Like a lover blossoms beneath

a choice to overcome the habit of videoing everything, but

the gaze of her adoring lover, creation responds to one who

sometimes a choice is necessary to just live a moment instead

looks at it and sees the fingerprints of God.

of preserving it.

Then, with my camera abandoned and my to-do list The moments dragged on. Me, barefoot in a broken camp

forgotten, I opened my eyes and gasped. The fireflies’ game

chair in the middle of a garden, with the air sticking in my

of Marco Polo was no longer just for a lonely few. The trees

throat like a bite of food too big to comfortably swallow,

seemed littered with them, almost as if they were strung

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

29

30

faith

He used to ask again. He used to shake his head and walk away. But we’ve had years together now. We built the garden together.

He has tasted wonder too many times to fail to recognize an opportunity like this, to fail to see the summer night for her extraordinary beauty. So he laid there with me, and the night was made all that much sweeter. I don’t know how long the fireflies danced or the electrical storm strobed. It could have been an hour for how paused and pregnant it felt, but I think it was likely much less. Magical moments like that so rarely last.

The breeze that first cut the hot air soon shredded it to bits. Soon it was a howling wind and the smell of heavy rain filled our nostrils.

The fireflies grew dark, and as quickly as it with twinkle lights, moving and weaving spots of sunshine.

came, the moment had moved on.

Hundreds of them, thousands maybe. The clouds in the distance flashed and flickered. A storm was coming and

With little fanfare, we rose. I picked up the camera and slipped

lightning strobed in the distance. Electricity zipped through

on my shoes and we headed to the house, with her warm light

the clouds the way it does on southern summer nights. The

spilling out over the dark yard. Miah walked ahead when I

air was like a wall, 90 degrees at least and unmoving. I

paused at the garden and looked back at her. The tomatoes

waited, breathing shallowly, afraid to disturb the magic of

and the sunflowers whipped in the wind. I prayed they would

the light show, slipping out of my chair, and rolling onto my

fare the night without damage, and I went inside, into the

back to admire it more fully.

shower, into the bed.

Then, as I knew it must, a cool breeze permeated the heavy

In the morning I’ll be in the garden again. She will be a

wool. I felt it on my tongue before I could feel it on my sweaty

completely different lover then, a demanding one with a long

skin. The taste of the storm was sweet and sharp all at once.

list of requests, and I will love her well. But tonight, I make

My husband, Miah, came looking for me and found me there,

a promise to remember the night with the fireflies and the

lying in the garden on my back, sticky and barefoot and

lightning storm where Miah and I laid in the garden. We must

completely in awe. He asked, in his booming voice, “What are

keep these moments, for they are one of the many treasures

you doing?” to which I simply responded, “Shhh.”

that grow in a garden. They are treasures, indeed.

To watch Jessica’s garden tours, visit her YouTube channel, Roots and Refuge.

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

garden

31

words Megan Lankford, Horticulture Supervisor, Botanical Garden of the Ozarks image LeManna/Shutterstock

august in the Garden YOU CAN PLANT:

THE DIRT: Most of us have heard of the USDA cold hardiness zones map. This map tells you what zone you’re in, and you can then see if what you want to put in your yard is hardy in that zone. While cold tolerance is very important, gardeners must also consider heat tolerance. A plant may be able to survive the winter cold, but not the southern summer sun.

T IPS:

There is a new map from the American Horticultural Society that tells you what heat zone you live in. The heat zone is based on the number of days in an average year that are above 86 degrees, which is the temperature at which many plants begin to suffer. It is set up similarly to the USDA cold hardiness zones and is easy to use. This system has not been adopted by all nurseries yet, but many have, and you can find the information on the plant tag. If the information is not available there, you can often find it with a quick internet search.

You may wonder why some plants wilt in the afternoon when the temperature is high. Plants transpire water to cool themselves, similar to human perspiration. While this works well most of the time, when the temperature rises above 86 degrees, some plants are unable to get enough water from the roots to keep up with the amount transpiring from their leaves. If you see your plants wilting, dig down a few inches in the soil, if there’s adequate moisture no worries. If not, you can water your plants, regardless of the time of day.

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

Arugula, Beets, Beans, Cucumbers, Peas, Radishes, Scallions, Spinach

Sow in Dappled Shade in Beginning of August: Bok Choy, Broccoli, Cabbage, Collard Greens, Kale, Leeks, Mustard Greens, Onions, Scallions, Spinach, Swiss Chard

In late August: Cilantro, Parsley, Dill, Fennel, Lettuce

32

community

Rollin’ with the

Big Dog

words Dwain Hebda IMAGEs courtesy Van Buren School District

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

community

Roy Kendrick served the Van Buren School District for twenty

meals to kids in a unique and grown-up environment than the

years before finally ascending to the role of the district’s child

typical school cafeteria lunch provides.

nutrition director four years ago. But once there, he quickly “We try to give them a little different food,” Roy says. “It

demonstrated a knack for creative thinking.

still follows state regulations, but we might have street “I had the idea of serving out of a food truck because food

tacos, we might have something like danger dogs where

trucks are so popular everywhere,” he says. “I was trying to

we have hot dogs with bacon or we might have bacon

find a way that we could get our children excited and wanting

cheeseburgers. A lot of times we’ll do pork sliders or some

to eat in our cafeterias. So, I started checking around and

type of chicken salad or a chef salad. We give them things

I found that in Oklahoma City they had a food truck and I

that we normally just don’t make in our schools and it

contacted them about it. They said it was going good.”

makes it a little exciting for them.”

Roy ran the idea past his superintendent, Dr. Harold

One of the priorities for the department was for the truck fare

Jeffcoat, who was similarly intrigued by the idea, and the

to be accessible to all students, which the district is able to do

process to create what would ultimately become Big Dog’s

by making it an extension of the school lunch program and its

Grill was begun.

pricing structure.

“We started that between myself and my assistant, Tessa

“[The truck] is served just like our meals in the cafeteria,” Roy

Clemmons and Dr. Jeffcoat,” Roy says. “[Our mascot is] the

says. “If you are a paid student, and you have to pay for your

Pointers, so we were trying to get a name that matched. We

lunch, it’s the same price. If you’re a free student, you get it

thought Big Dog’s and we wanted it to be a grill. The design

free off the truck. Or if you’re a reduced student that’s paying

took all three of us.”

$.40 for a lunch, that’s what the truck costs you.”

The rig was built by Cruising Kitchens out of San Antonio,

The truck and its designated staff of three makes scheduled

Texas, and has been in service for about a year. With its

rounds when school is in session, bringing lunch to the

black exterior blanketed in orange flames, it’s hard to miss

district’s high school, freshman academy (junior high) and

and that’s exactly the point. As the truck makes its rounds

middle schools. It’s proven wildly popular at each level.

during the school year, the very sight of it causes a stir among “In our school district, we’ll serve three hundred to four

students and the community alike.

hundred at a time out of it,” he says. “Butterfield Junior High,

“The thing I like about it, when kids come out to eat off it, they get excited,” Roy says. “We have music playing, the grill going. It’s a fun time for kids on top of getting a nutritious meal.”

for example, we feed a total of five hundred kids in the fifth and sixth grade lunch program. We go there and between two hundred and three hundred will eat off the food truck.”

The district keeps Big Dog’s Grill in circulation at various school events, too, such as home football games, the summer robotics and stargazing programs and community events such as Old Timers’ Day in Van Buren. They’ve even hired out to churches on occasion, which use them as a unique catering service for their events.

“Anything we sell off that truck comes back to our department

The truck isn’t meant to be a mere diversion, although it

which helps us greatly in the school district,” Roy says.

certainly has that effect. It’s also meant to deliver nutritious

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

33

34

community

Big Dog’s Grill even keeps rolling through the summer months,

Roy sees these statistics in human form every day in his job.

serving meals at two locations of the district’s summer feeding

That’s why he’s passionate about the summer feeding program

program locations: breakfast at Blakemore Field and breakfast

and how the Big Dog’s Grill allows him to cover additional

and lunch at the city library. The other two feeding locations

ground. More stops, he says, equals more meals to kids who

– Van Buren Boys and Girls Club and Central Elementary –

likely otherwise would go without.

serve meals using their own kitchen facilities. All meals are free to children 18 and under and at a pittance for any adults

“In the summertime, while a lot of parents are working, kids

who wish to eat, although at present the clientele is almost

are home by themselves,” Roy says. “In my opinion, for a

exclusively children.

lot of kids, the only stable meal they get is when they’re in school. We try to make sure that children are fed whether it’s

Roy says the summertime program that serves roughly one

summer or not.

hundred fifty meals per day out of the truck and hundreds more through the permanent locations illustrates the level of

“A lot of them will come by themselves. A lot of them, their

food insecurity that exists right here locally. It’s a problem

grandparents will bring them. But we just want to make sure

that extends well beyond the school district. According to

that even though it’s summertime, that every kid that’s hungry

Little Rock-based Arkansas Food Bank, one in five Arkansans

in our district or in our area has a chance at meals. So that’s

doesn’t know where their next meal is coming from and one

what we try to do.”

in four children in the state experiences food insecurity.

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

The River Valley's #1 Christian Station DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

36

taste

Fresh Strawberry Pie

words and image courtesy Family Features Recipe adapted from Pillsbury

It wouldn’t be summer without a fresh fruit pie. Sink your teeth into sweetness with every bite of this Fresh Strawberry Pie. Find more summer recipes at culinary.net!

Ingredients

method

° 1 pie crust

Heat oven to 450°F. Press pie crust into 9-inch glass pie pan.

° 6 cups whole fresh strawberries

Bake 9-11 minutes, or until lightly browned. Completely cool pie

° 1 cup sugar

crust, approximately 30 minutes.

° 3 Tablespoons cornstarch ° 1/4 cup water

In blender, crush strawberries to make 1 cup. In saucepan, combine

° Sliced strawberries

sugar and cornstarch. Add crushed strawberries and water. Bring to

° 1 cup sweetened whipped cream

boil, stirring constantly. Cool to room temperature.

Arrange sliced strawberries in cooled crust. Pour cooked strawberry mixture evenly over strawberries. Refrigerate 3 hours.

Top with whipped cream and desired toppings.

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

taste

Grilled Pineapple with Lime Dip words and image courtesy Family Features

The grill isn’t just for hamburgers and hot dogs. Try a different way to eat pineapple this summer by grilling it and pairing with a lime dip for a tasty delight. Find more recipes for summer at culinary.net!

Ingredients

method

for the grilled pineapple

Peel pineapple; cut into wedges. In resealable plastic bag,

° 1 pineapple ° 1/4 cup brown sugar

combine brown sugar, lime juice and honey. Add pineapple wedges, seal bag and turn to coat. Refrigerate one hour.

° 2 Tablespoons lime juice ° 3 Tablespoons honey

To make lime dip: In small bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Beat in yogurt, honey, brown sugar, lime juice and

for the lime dip

lime zest. Cover and refrigerate.

° 8 ounces cream cheese, softened ° 1/2 cup plain yogurt

Heat grill to medium heat. Remove pineapple wedges from

° 3 Tablespoons honey

plastic bag; discard marinade. Grill pineapple wedges,

° 2 Tablespoons brown sugar

covered, 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.

° 2 Tablespoons lime juice

Serve with lime dip.

° 2 teaspoons lime zest DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

37

38

taste

Fresh Pear Dumplings with Raspberry Sauce words and image courtesy Family Features

Fresh fruits are one of the highlights of summer. Try this tasty Fresh Pear Dumplings with Raspberry Sauce recipe, bringing pears and raspberries together for a delicious seasonal dessert. Find more dessert ideas at culinary.net!

Ingredients

method

for the pear dumplings

Heat oven to 425°F. In medium bowl, combine pears, raisins and brown sugar. Mix well. Lay out pie crust. Cut into quarters.

° 2 firm, ripe pears, cored and chopped ° 1/4 cup golden raisins

Spoon pear filling on top of dough. Brush edges with water.

° 1/4 cup brown sugar

Fold up sides to form three seams. Place dumpling, seam-

° 1 pie crust

side up, on baking sheet. Brush tops of dough with milk.

° Water

Sprinkle with sugar. Bake 18 minutes, or until golden brown.

° 1 Tablespoon milk

Cool on rack. In blender, blend raspberries until smooth.

° 1 Tablespoon sugar

Pour blended raspberries into saucepan. Add cornstarch and sugar. Bring to boil, stirring often. Place in freezer 10

for the raspberry sauce

minutes. Drizzle raspberry sauce on plate. Place dumpling

° 1 package (10 ounces) frozen raspberries

over sauce. Top dumpling with additional raspberry sauce.

° 1 teaspoon cornstarch ° 3 Tablespoons sugar DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

taste

Grilled Banana Pound Cake Kabobs words and image courtesy Family Features

Summertime means a lot of grilling. So why not try this yummy grilled dessert alongside your favorite grilled entrée? Find more grilling recipes at culinary.net!

Ingredients

method

° 1 loaf (10 3/4 ounces) frozen pound cake,

Alternately thread cake and bananas on metal skewers or

soaked wooden skewers. In small bowl, mix butter, brown

thawed and cubed

° 2 large bananas, cut into 1-inch slices

sugar, vanilla extract and cinnamon. Brush mixture over

° 1/4 cup butter, melted

kabobs. Place kabobs on greased grill rack. Grill kabobs over

° 2 Tablespoons brown sugar

medium heat, turning once. Serve with ice cream topped

° 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

with your favorite dessert topping.

° 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon ° Toppings of your choice

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

39

40

taste

Pineapple D ream Recipe adapted Three Dots and a Dash image 5 second Studio/Shutterstock

ingredients

method

1 ounce white rum

Add all ingredients except

1/2 ounce crème de pêche

garnish to a mixing tin and

1 ounce fresh lime juice

shake. Double strain the

2 ounces fresh pineapple juice

mixture into a glass. Garnish

Squeeze of agave

with a pineapple wedge.

• • • • •

6-8 mint leaves, muddled

•

Pineapple wedges (garnish)

Please drink responsibly.

Ice

Never drink and drive.

• •

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

42

entertainment

august in arkansas Festivals Mean Summer Fun words Dwain Hebda imageS courtesy venues

Summertime

means

loading

up

the

family

wagon and trekking to take in various sights and attractions around the nation. Last year, Arkansas again welcomed millions of visitors who dropped nearly eight billion in tourism spending in the process, according to the latest available annual report by Arkansas Parks and Tourism.

An interesting trend in the tourism game is the rise of the “staycation”; traveling and vacationing within one’s state. Arkansas is so diverse in topography and attractions it makes for the ideal staycation environment.

But whether you’re a native or coming from across the state line, there’s one attraction that appeals to ever ybody and that ’s a diversity of community festivals and events to suit ever y taste. The following are three of the more unique to be had in The Natural State.

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

entertainment

121st TONTITOWN GRAPE FESTIVAL

held a celebration to mark the first harvest in their new home.

August 6-10

From that modest meal and Mass of thanksgiving, the seeds

Tontitown, Arkansas

were sown for the modern festival.

154 East Henri De Tonti Blvd.

479.361.2615

Father Bandini continued to play an integral role in the growth

tontitowngrapefestival.com

and development of the area, first by incorporating Tontitown in 1909 and then serving as its first mayor. By the time of

Voted the top fair and festival of Northwest Arkansas,

his death in 1917, the city was thriving as a center both of

the Tontitown Grape Festival celebrates one hundred and

Italian heritage and the Catholic faith. St. Joseph Church was

twenty-one years of good food, family entertainment and

the center of life for many of Tontitown’s residents. In fact,

celebrating the region’s Italian heritage.

the resident Sisters of Mercy not only taught in the parochial school, but with the establishment of the public-school system

This year’s event runs five days and features a carnival midway

in the 1930s, taught there as well.

and free live entertainment, plus a grape stomp on Tuesday and Wednesday and the world-famous spaghetti dinner on

The festival grew right along with the parish and the town.

Thursday, Friday and Saturday. It’s so good, they’ll dish up more

By the 1930s the event included carnival booths, dances and

than six thousand pounds of noodles and sauce over three

now and again a pageant. Constants throughout the years

days. A 5K road race on Saturday as well as arts and crafts and

have been the wonderful food and the local wine. As modern

crowning of Miss Concordia round out the attractions.

conveniences have steadily come to the area, the festival has remained a steadfast and beloved event.

The Tontitown story began in Genoa, Italy, from which groups of locals immigrated to the U.S. seeking a better way of life. In 1897, Father Pietro Bandini began assembling in America what he envisioned as an enclave for these families. He purchased land near present-day Springdale from a local farmer, William Woods, who found the ground too rocky for cultivation. Father Bandini snapped up the land for two to three dollars an acre and sent word back to the old country.

In January 1898, the Giovanni Battista Bariola family arrived at the Italian colony, soon to be followed by forty more families.

They named the spot for Henri de Tonti, the first Italian to set foot in Arkansas years before as chief lieutenant of French explorer LaSalle’s party. That summer, the Tontitown families DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

43

44

entertainment

43rd HOPE WATERMELON FESTIVAL

ever since. Awaiting the anticipated fifty thousand visitors

August 8-10

to the 2019 event will be one hundred fifty artisans and

101 West 2nd Street

crafters from six states and dozens of food options, from

Hope, Arkansas

midway-style delicacies to down-home fare served by local

870.777.3640

civic clubs.

hopemelonfest.com This year's Hope Watermelon festival will feature numerous Long before it was known as the birthplace of a certain

activities including live music, Watermelon Idol talent contest,

Arkansas-bred president of the United States, Hope, Arkansas’s

a 5K, a dog show and a baggo tournament. And no true

claim to fame was watermelon. The city started building its

watermelon festival would be complete without the Watermelon

reputation on the bulbous green fruit back in the 1920s, as a

Olympics, eating contests and, of course, seed-spitting contest,

one-day Chamber of Commerce event.

all of which take a place of honor in Hope.

The old-timey festivals offered fewer entertainment options,

Attendees also get to help weigh in on the running debate

but still drew an impressive twenty thousand visitors by train

about which community grows the best watermelons in

to whom vendors hawked ice-cold watermelon slices. A

Arkansas. In the 1980s, Cave City launched its own festival

Watermelon Queen and a large parade were added highlights

– held each July – billed as featuring “the world’s sweetest

of the early events.

watermelons.” Hope merely sniffs good-naturedly at such claims, pointing to longevity and the mammoth size of its

The event went on hiatus thanks to the Great Depression,

produce – some tipping the scales at two hundred pounds –

only to be revived in the 1970s and it’s been going strong

as their claim to melon fame.

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

entertainment

NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP CHUCK WAGON RACES Aug. 29 - Sept. 2 2848 Shake Rag Rd Clinton, Arkansas 501.745.8407 chuckwagonraces.com Channel your inner cowpoke by attending one of the wildest events you’ve ever seen, the National Championship Chuck Wagon Races. What started out as a means of entertaining a few friends back in the 1980s – eight chuck wagons the first year, to be exact – has grown into a competition of more than one hundred fifty teams in five different divisions and spectators numbering twenty thousand.

The action happens at the Bar of Ranch, where Dan and Peggy Eoff cooked up the idea of racing chuckwagons some years ago. Prizes have grown along with the participation – winners take home silver buckles and a share of $25,000 in prizes.

For the uninitiated, the race has only a few rules. Teams include a driver, cook and outrider, the latter two starting on the ground. At the signal, the cook loads the stove and gets into the wagon and at the gun, the outrider loads a tent into the wagon and mounts a horse. The outrider must pass the wagon before it crosses the finish line, intact with tent, stove and the two other team members to get an official time. Four teams start at once so spooked animals are common, making the event tougher than it looks.

Another unique event is the Snowy River race, a horse race held on downhill trails that end with a plunge into the Little Red River.

Other entertainment and attractions have been added to the four-day event over the years including musical concerts each night following the races, ranch rodeo events, trail rides, cattle and horse drives and karaoke.

Gate admission covers everything but souvenirs – check out the merchandise available from a wide range of Western merchandise vendors – and you can even camp on premises at no additional charge.

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

45

46

travel

Mount Nebo State Park words and images courtesy Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism

Situated in the Arkansas River Valley just forty-five minutes from Arkansas wine country, this state park sits atop the 1,350-foot Mount Nebo. In the 1930’s the Civilian Conservation Corps constructed many of the rustic-style cabins, pavilions, bridges, and fourteen miles of hiking and mountain biking trails. Cabin 1 was the first cabin rental in state park history. Twelve of the park’s fifteen cabins are located along the bluff and have views of the river valley below. Most of the campsites do as well. There are thirtyfour campsites (twenty-four Class B and ten hike-in tent sites). Other facilities include a swimming pool, tennis courts, picnic areas, pavilions, and visitor center with gift shop. For more information about Mount Nebo State Park and the other fifty-one state parks, visit arkansasstateparks.com.

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

travel

TRAVELS

IT'S

ARKIE

48

almost time for back-to-school and I don't know about you, but I need one more staycation before

we head into the busy fall season. This route through the hills just west of Little Rock gives you a fun little day-trip adventure with good eats, hiking and antiquing!

We'll start our day off at The Bramble Market on Highway 10 in West Little Rock. I fell in love as soon as I walked in the door! They don't open until 9:00am (1:00pm on Sundays), but if you're getting a late start this is the perfect place to stop for home grown snacks and goodies. They usually have a local food truck out front and they carry locally grown and sourced produce, eggs, meats and a variety of fare. Make sure you check out Poppy J's popcorn while you're there – it’s melt in your mouth good!

When you continue down Highway 10 towards Perryville, you'll happen upon a little restaurant off to your right. There's a sign that says Jones Family Restaurant, but if you blink you might miss it and you don't want to miss this one - best breakfast in the state! Not even gonna lie, there's a reason the parking lot is always full of cars. Like Mr. Arkie says, "It tastes like Mawmaw made it."

We are huge fans of Petit Jean State Park and come up at least three to four times a year. Hiking at Petit Jean is most known for the Cedar Falls Trail - gorgeous, but sometimes a little crowded on the weekends. If you're looking for something quieter, check out the Seven Hollows Trail. It's marked by a tiny little sign, but don't let that fool you! It stretches 4.5 miles and includes a large natural bridge, turtle rocks and a hidden

Petit Jean State Park

grotto with a waterfall. It's a very pretty hike no matter which way you turn - you'll feel like you stepped back in time to the Jurassic period!

Petit Jean State Park is a beautiful place to camp, but they also have cabins and a lodge if you're more into glamping than

words Paul and Sarah Heer, Arkie Travels images courtesy Paul and Sarah Heer, Arkie Travels and the venues

pitching a tent. If you do decide to make it an overnight trip, make sure you get up at sunrise and head over to the Petit Jean gravesite. The overlook offers a dramatic view of the valley and Arkansas River and is a picturesque place for peace and quiet.

You may need a sweet treat after a day of hiking and The Outpost is the place to get it. Hand-dipped ice cream, fudge and all sorts of other goodies await less than three minutes

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

travel

The Bramble Market

Jones Family Restaurant DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

49

50

travel

Petit Jean

The Outpost Mustang Sally's

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

travel

The Hitchin' Post

Heifer Ranch

from the state park entrance. They also carry camping gear and those little grocery items campers sometimes forget.

If you're wanting something a little more filling, check out Mustang Sally's sitting in the cute little courthouse square in Perryville. Pull up a seat and order the BBQ nachos and a peanut butter fried pie - I promise, you won't be disappointed!

Afterwards, take a few minutes and walk off your meal in the downtown area. There are some fun little boutiques and if you feel like doing a little "junk-tiquing," check out The Hitchin' Post! It's a hodgepodge of memorabilia, collectables and miscellaneous junk, but you never know where you might spot that diamond in the rough.

We love exploring The Natural State and want to encourage you to too! We eat local, shop local and stay local and we're proud to support Arkansas businesses. For more information on our travels and routes we've designed all over our home state, follow us on socials @ArkieTravels or visit our website at www.arkietravels.com.

On your way back to Little Rock, make time to stop by the Heifer Ranch. A project of Heifer International, the animals in their pastures and the produce from their gardens support farmer-owned cooperatives. The Bramble Market carries their stunning bouquets of flowers and herbs. Kiddos and adults alike will love the sheep, pigs and goats and can participate in activities in the show barn. Be sure you visit the International gift shop to support the livelihoods of artisans from all over the world.

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

51

52

fiction

Never Too Late Fiction Sarah Phillips image 271 EAK MOTO/Shutterstock

Kate couldn’t explain it, the certain kind of magic that worked its way through her fingers when she created a new piece. The glass beads, crystals, metals and natural fibers felt as welcome to her hands as the warm water in a soothing bath. Sometimes, she wasn’t sure what she was making until it was done. Earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and rings, all adornments inspired by nature and created with magic which now lined the cases spread out in her tent.

This was her second year at the festivals in downtown Van Buren, Arkansas. She did a lot of business on Etsy, but when it was suggested

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

fiction

that she “join the club” as a local vendor, she only had to

“You tryin’ to wear a path in that concrete or are you going

think briefly about the rewards and then asked, “Are there

to come in and say, ‘Hey, how are you?’” Kate said with her

funnel cakes?” Now, she loved being able to network twice

hands on her hips. Michael stopped, tilted his head down and

a year, drawing in the creative types who wanted to learn

shoved his hands into his jean pockets. He was caught. His

to make jewelry themselves. She could always recognize the

face tilted up at her then, his blue eyes squinting through the

“I would love to learn how to do that” twinkle in their eyes.

setting sun, noticeably blushing.

She once had it herself, years ago. Information was handed out about her beginner’s classes at least ten times a day

“Hey,” he said as he stepped inside.

here. Occasionally, a special request for an item was made, a birthday present, or a wedding veil encrusted with light

“What on earth are you doing here?” she asked as she gave

blue gems, which was sketched up on the spot.

him a quick hug hello. It shocked her that his scent of soap and Polo cologne was still so familiar after all these years.

When she wasn’t doing business, she people-watched. The festivals drew in every type of person you could think of,

“That… is a long story.” His attention went to the display cases;

all looking for deals or food, or just looking. And when

he bent down to look closely, just barely touching the blue

she wasn’t watching them, she spent a little time checking

beads on her waterfall necklace. “You make these,” he said,

out the stilt walkers or finding an antique that she loved,

the words coming out more as a statement than a question.

depending on the time of the year. With her day winding down and her customers thinning out, she began to pack up.

“Yes, I do. So, are you in from California?”

That’s when she saw him. “Is that…?” she thought, but then Without looking up, he answered, “No, I’m back in Ozark,

quickly dismissed it.

been home for about eight months now.” After straightening, A few seconds later, he passed by again, going the other way.

he looked at her, searching her eyes, “You want to grab a

She knew it was him, Michael. Flashes of her past came to

bite to eat?”

her, quickening her pulse, making her flush. The two of them riding in his baby blue S-10 pickup truck a little too fast down

“I know the perfect place,” she smiled. “I just need about

country backroads, Alan Jackson and Garth Brooks blaring on

ten minutes to get closed up here.”

the radio, and him reaching for her hand. So many late nights on the phone, sneaking in past curfew, laughing and feeling

They made their way up the hill, looking at each other and

like their time together was always cut too short. So many

grinning, passing the candle vendor and kettle corn maker

firsts she had with him, the most important being the first

who were also clearing out their inventory. Most of the food

time she imagined sharing a life with someone. She was only

stands had already closed their doors for the evening, but

a junior, he a senior, but they both knew that it was love.

Kate’s favorite was still open for business. “Y’all are just in time! I was just about to turn off the fryer,” said the older

She saw him pass by her tent again, this time stealing a peek

man in the red ballcap, “what can I get you?”

inside, and then continuing to walk. They stayed together even after he graduated. He would have been her date to

“Hey, Roger. I’ll have a funnel cake, please.”

her senior prom, but he left the night before. Just like that, he walked out of her life and moved to California. “It’s

“Of course, you will, Miss Kate,” he said before looking at her

just something I have to do,” he told her. He was leaving

companion. “This may or may not be her third funnel cake of

to search for his biological father. She hadn’t seen Michael

the day,” he said with a giggle. Kate hid her face behind her

since. Yet, here he was again, pacing back and forth on Main

hands, laughing.

Street in front of her.

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

53

54

fiction

“I’ll have the same,” Michael said.

“…the rest is history?” he finished her sentence.

“Coming right up.”

“Exactly,” she said as she touched his arm, feeling the same spark she felt when she was seventeen. “So, what brought you

After Michael paid for their food, they sat at a folding table

back to Ozark?”

by the museum. Conversation came easy then as they took turns asking questions. “How were things in California? Did

“Mom had a stroke. She died in the hospital three days later.”

you find your dad?”

Michael’s step-father (the man he now considered his dad) never left her side. “It was so sudden,” he said as he choked

He nodded, wiping powdered sugar from his mouth, “Yes,

up, swallowing hard before talking again. “And then it was

I found him. Turns out, he was just as Mom described him,

as if he couldn’t live without her, and before I knew it, he

a selfish drunk. He didn’t want anything to do with me, so

was in the hospital.” Within four months, Michael’s step-

at that point I had to figure out what to do with myself. I

father was gone, too.

did a couple of jobs here and there, and then I worked for a guy who made furniture. He designed and built everything

Michael softly reached up and brushed away a tear falling

himself and I learned a lot from him. Started my own business,

down Kate’s cheek. “I’m so sorry,” she whispered. He

too,” he said as he pulled out his phone and scrolled through

nodded as he stared in her eyes. It was dark now and they

pictures of his pieces.

tossed their plates and walked along the sidewalks that were now clearing. On the top of the hill, a band still played for

“They’re beautiful,” she said as she noted the pride on his

stragglers, performing a cover of Kacey Musgraves’ “Late to

face before he asked her about her life after high school.

the Party.” Eventually Kate’s hand found its way around his

She told him how she met Victor at a party when she was

arm as they made their way to a small garden area.

nineteen. They dated for a little while before she became pregnant, a boy they named Joseph. She and Victor married

“I have a confession to make,” Michael said as he stopped and

and had another child, a girl named Rose. Kate pulled out her

turned to her.

phone and showed him pictures of her now grown children.

She cocked her head, “Oh, yeah?”

“They both look so much like you,” he said, his grin showing his dimples.

“I looked you up,” he said with caution on his face, “that’s why I’m here today. I knew you would be here.”

“You think so?” He nodded.

“Is that right?”

“Anyway, Vic and I knew that the marriage wouldn’t last, but the kids were almost grown, so we stuck it out that long. I

He took her hand. “The last thing Dad said to me was that I

really felt like I had lost myself in those twenty-two years,

needed to quit wasting time and go find someone to love.”

didn’t know who I was. Then one day I decided to take a jewelry making class.” Kate closed her eyes, focusing hard

Kate’s eyes teared again as she squeezed Michael’s hand.

on her memory of that time before opening them again.

“Honestly, it was the jewelry that saved me. After the divorce,

“I told him I already had.”

I wasn’t sure what I was capable of doing. But I opened up my online shop and then started teaching classes and...”

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

BACK TO SCHOOL

BACK TO SCHOOL Special Feature This is the time of year when we get to start over. It’s time to buy school supplies and clothes. We set our alarm clocks in preparation for early mornings, and we gather information to ensure our kids have the best school year yet.

Do South® is here to help along with our experts who’ve done much of the guess work for you! In the next few pages, you’ll learn about educational opportunities, a church to call home, afterschool activities like gymnastics, interactive experiences for the entire family, where to go for your children’s healthcare and dental needs, and even a church

DO SOUTH® MAGAZINE

service that offers a Blessing of the Backpacks for kids getting ready to go back to class!

Make Your Day Amazing! Make the Scott Family Amazeum in Bentonville your destination for family fun. The Amazeum features hands-on, interactive experiences that connect science, technology, engineering, art and math (STEAM) to the real world. Turn your curiosity loose at the Amazeum for a few hours or an entire day and discover something new. Visit amazeum. org and plan your visit. The Amazeum is located at the corner of NE J Street and Museum Way. The museum is open 10 am to 5 pm Mondays, Wednesdays through Saturdays, and 1 to 5 pm on Sunday. The museum is closed on Tuesdays. Admission is $9.50 for adults and children 2 and older.

479.709.7440 (Fort Smith, Arkansas) 479.474.3399 (Van Buren, Arkansas) baptisthealthfortsmithvanburen.com

BACK TO SCHOOL

1009 Museum Way, Bentonville, Arkansas 479.696.9280 amazeum.org

Baptist Health’s pediatric doctors provide a full range of quality services to keep children and adolescents healthy.

Our pediatric care team is dedicated to making children and parents as comfortable as possible, providing a welcoming environment with friendly, caring staff. Whether it’s an annual check-up or treatment for a serious illness, our pediatricians take your child’s health as seriously as you do. We offer a variety of pediatric care services, including newborn and infant care, school and sports physicals, as well as immunizations and screenings. To find a Baptist Health pediatrician near you, call 1.888.BAPTIST.

DO SOUTH MAGAZINE

DO SOUTH® MAGAZINE

BACK TO SCHOOL

BACK TO SCHOOL

2710 Massard Road, Fort Smith, Arkansas 479.452.1481 myeastside.tv Have you been turned off or wounded by the church? We

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

believe here at East Side that it’s a great time to give church FUMC is passionate about family, friendships, and finding

you again. Maybe you’ve never even stepped foot inside of a

our calling. It’s a place to get help, healing, and hope. We

church. Again, we would love East Side to be that church for

want you to find the grace of God that accepts you just as

you! East Side exists to help people GATHER to worship Jesus,

you are, yet a God who loves you so much He won’t leave

GROW in following Jesus, and to GO share Jesus. Our purpose

you like you are. We want to be of help to you on your

is to transform Fort Smith and Beyond! We hope you can join

spiritual journey, no matter where on that journey you find

us this Sunday at 10:15am, in the Worship Center! You belong

yourself. Please get in touch if we can be of help or if you

here. #myeastside

have any questions. Call 479.782.5068 or visit fsfumc.org.

DO SOUTH MAGAZINE

another try! We want to be a church that builds trust with

BACK TO SCHOOL

5912 S. 28th Street, Fort Smith, Arkansas 479.646.1616 flamefs.com Flame offers recreational gymnastics, USA Gymnastics Junior Olympic competitive teams (Levels 3 - 10), and Tiny Tot and Preschool gymnastics classes. There are also Mom N Tot gymnastics classes—loved by moms and kiddos alike, tumbling classes, and even Urban Gymnastics classes! During the summer, kids nine months old to twelve years old can learn to swim (beginners, advanced beginners, intermediate and advanced swimmers)! We also offer amazing birthday party packages. If your child is ages four through twelve, plan their next birthday party with us, for a celebration they’ll never forget!

FLAME GYMNASTICS ACADEMY

DO SOUTH® MAGAZINE

5912 South 28th Street, Fort Smith 479.646.1616 | flamefs.com | Celebrating 34 Years!

Developing Mind, Body & Spirit since 1985!

5901 Riley Park Drive, Ste. B. Fort Smith, Arkansas 479.763.3050 premierpediatrics.com At Premier Pediatrics, we know kids don’t get sick or injured only during business hours. It’s why we designed an urgent care clinic open nights and weekends. And because children aren’t just little adults, the clinic is staffed with providers specially trained in caring for pediatric patients - from tiny newborns to active teens. Urgent care appointments can even be booked online to decrease time patients (and parents) spend in the waiting room. Walk-in patients are also accepted up to one hour before closing. Premier Pediatrics Urgent Care is open Monday-Friday from 12pm-8pm, Saturday from 9am-6pm and Sunday from 12pm-6pm. Visit premierpediatricsfs.com to book a same-day appointment.

Flame Gymnastics is the leader in Gymnastics and Tumbling instruction in the River Valley. We offer over 20,000 sq. ft. of gymnastics fun and fitness. The finest equipment and the most experienced instructors ensure your child will learn and enjoy their gymnastics experience!

Love competition? Flame has produced 35 State Champion Teams, and more than 600 Individual and All Around State Champions! Call us today, and start your child on the road to fun and fitness!

Gym Hours Monday - Thursday: 10a - 7:30p Friday: 10a-6:30p Saturday: 10a – 12p

Office Hours Monday, Tuesday, Thursday: 9a-8p Wednesday: 9a-7:30p Friday: 9a - 6:30p

We Offer: Urban Gymnastics Classes Girl's & Boy’s Recreational Gymnastics USAG Level 3-10 Competitive Girls Teams USAG Level 4-10 Competitive Boys Teams

Mom N’ Tot, Preschool & Tiny Tot Gymnastics Swim Lessons with Jayne Jacobson and Daniel Beam Birthday & Splash Bash Swim Parties Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced Tumbling Classes

“Dear Lord, use my eyes to see new friends.

Open my ears to hear my teacher.

Open my heart to learn new things.

Let my heart remember YOU are near when I’m afraid.

Help me to love others like you do.

I want to shine your light so bright in my school.

BACK TO SCHOOL

back 2 school prayer

Amen."

Courtney DeFeo

DO SOUTH MAGAZINE

DO SOUTH® MAGAZINE

BACK TO SCHOOL

Launched in 2017, RVVA was the state's first district conversion K-12 Virtual Academy. Courses are entirely online, allowing students to attend class only when additional support is needed. Participants benefit from interactive web tools, online lessons, and live instruction in an online classroom without distractions. We also have access to experienced, Arkansascertified teachers for one-on-one tutoring at the RVVA campus, with families receiving year-round support from academy staff.

Students are eligible to participate in Van Buren School District extra curricular activities, such as athletics, band, and choir.

Peer engagement and service opportunities are also provided.

Learn more about this innovative approach to learning by visiting us online!

BACK TO SCHOOL

1.888.221.3624 rivervalleyvirtualacademy.comÂ

2101 Dallas Street, Fort Smith, Arkansas 808 S. Broadway St., Poteau, Oklahoma 479.782.3021 udoujorthodontics.com Welcome to Udouj Orthodontics! Dr. Henry J. Udouj, III is a respected provider in our orthodontic care community. We have offices to serve you in Fort Smith, Arkansas, and Poteau, Oklahoma. Our practice's top priority is to provide you the highest quality orthodontic care in a fun, friendly, comfortable environment. We utilize the latest technological advances in the field of orthodontics to ensure that you receive the most effective care possible. Schedule your appointment with us at Udouj Orthodontics today!

DO SOUTH MAGAZINE

BACK TO SCHOOL

Union

Christian Academy

4201 Windsor Drive, Fort Smith, Arkansas The new 479.783.7327 • No one goes unnoticed unioneagles.org • Relationships are built with every • New kids never sit alone

• Where “family” really describes the school

member of your class (and other classes, too) • Students are encouraged to Join the family at Union Christian Academy – the only fully

Imagine a accredited Kindergarten-12th grade private Christian school school Hearts and minds are equally in • the River Valley accredited by ANSAA, ASCI & AdvancEd! engaged where... examine worldly events from a biblical perspective

• We

offer

fine

arts,

Older students mentor younger students

championship

athletics,

student

organizations, and local and international missions. Our • Bible classes are taught daily

The Van Buren School District is thrilled to welcome back

• The day is started with scripture low student-to-teacher ratio creates a dynamic environment

its students and staff for 2019-20! We look forward to

for• optimal learning. AP courses and leadership classes are Teachers can and do pray with

an exciting new school year and the opportunity to invest

and prayer students

available! Our students’ ACT scores are above the state

in your child. VBSD offers a wealth of college and career

and national averages and we have a 100% graduation

readiness programs, as well as STEM education, and

• People are loved and God is honored

• Families drive from miles around to

rateattend and college acceptance with over 90% of students

access to the latest technology. We are also known for

offered college scholarships! Ask about our 20-65% tuition

our award-winning fine arts programs and wide range of

discounts based on income and our accredited preschool.

extracurricular activities. Be sure to keep up with all the

Union Christian Academy – educating for today, tomorrow,

latest District news by liking @VBSDPointers on Facebook,

and eternity! #thenewU

Twitter & Instagram. #PointerPride

You don’t have to imagine, come explore The New U!

Call 479-783-7327 or visit unioneagles.org for more information

DO SOUTH® MAGAZINE

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

#thenewU • unioneagles.org

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