Spotlight on Crawford County 2017

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Spotlight on....

dining, page 5

events, page 10

shopping, page 10

history, page 22

recreation, page 30

churches, page 37

This is a Press Argus-Courier/ GateHouse Media Publication 100 North 11th Street Van Buren, Ark., 72956

479-474-5215 www.pressargus.com Š 2017 GateHouse Media

scholastic sports, page 46 education, page 48

Cover Photography provided by Twila King and Kenneth Fry. Interior Photography provided by Kenneth Fry, Taniah Tudor and Twila King.

Elected Officials

Every effort has been made to assure the accuracy of the information in this publication. GateHouse Media assumes no responsibility for misinformation. Please contact the Press ArgusCourier with any additions or corrections. Reproduction in whole or part without permission of GateHouse Media is Prohibited.

Train Excursion

27

County Services

50

Community Meetings

52

Historic Places

55

18

Drennen-Scott House

25

Kirksey Maternity Hospital

26

SPOTLIGHT ON CRAWFORD COUNTY - 2017 | 3

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DINING OUT

GENERAL J&J Family Restaurant, Alma, Intersection of Highway 74 and Highway 71 (Breakfast and lunch), 479-632-4066 Grandma’s House Cafe, Winslow (just north of Crawford County), 21588 South Highway 71 (Thursday-Saturday, breakfast and lunch; Sundays, lunch only) 479-634-2128. Chester Country Cafe, Chester, 315 East Front Avenue, 479-369-4900 (breakfast-dinner, but closes for about an hour to prepare for lunch) D’s Family Restaurant of Alma, 39 Collum Lane, 479-632-1014 Let’s Eat, Alma, 208 Collum Lane West, 479-6326322 (lunch-early dinner, closes at 7 p.m.)

Rick and Lisa Bonds will partner with Steve and Debbie Edwards to open D&R Trolley Stop, offering barbecue, gourmet hot dogs, ice cream and shakes, at 703 Main St., Van Buren.

D’s Family Style Restaurant, Van Buren, 3200 Alma Highway, 479-474-3574

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Western Sizzlin’, Van Buren, 3120 Alma Highway, 479-474-2357 Oliver’s Kitchen, Downtown Van Buren, 719 Main Street, 479-262-6888 (breakfast and lunch) Chat N Chew, Cedarville, Route 220

AMERICANA D&R Trolley Stop, Downtown Van Buren, 703 Main Street (opens mid to late June 2017 for lunch and dinner. Will be closed a few hours to prepare for dinner.) 479-922-2060 Neon Moon, Mountainburg, 326 Highway 71 SW. 479-369-1705

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Dairy Dream, Mountainburg, 1600 Highway 71

Boom-A-Rang, Downtown Van Buren, 600 Main Street (Breakfast-Dinner), 479-262-6004 www.boomarangdiner.com

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NE, 479-369-2295 (Open April to November)

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DINING OUT

Dairy Dip, Mulberry, 29 US Highway 64 East. 479-997-9991. (Breakfast-Dinner) Patrick’s Butcher Boy Burgers, Alma. 121 Southfork Street. 479-430-7270

ITALIAN Pasta Grill, Downtown Van Buren, 810 Main Street (opens late summer or early fall). Frank’s Italian Restaurant, Van Buren, 525 North Plaza Drive, 479-474-7778 (closed Mondays) www.franks-restaurant.com

CAJUN JC’s Bar-B-Cue offers a variety of flavors.

CrawPappy’s Cajun Cuisine, Alma, 1911 Highway 71 North, 479-430-0034 (open Wednesday-Saturday)

Crawfish at CrawPappy’s (when in season). 6 | 2017 - SPOTLIGHT ON CRAWFORD COUNTY

DINING OUT

SEAFOOD Catfish Hole, Alma, 24 Collum Lane West, 479632-9718. (Closed Mondays) http://www.thecatfishhole.com/the-alma-hole. html

COFFEE Chapters, Downtown Van Buren, 816 Main Street, 479-471-9315. chaptersonmain.com Cafe Jitters, Alma, 117 Highway 71 North, 479632-1344. (Also serves sandwiches) Sweet Bay Coffee, Van Buren, 518 North Plaza Drive, 479-471-8991 sweetbay.coffee Stirred Catering & Coffee, Van Buren, 710 Fayetteville Road, 479-831-STIR (7847) (has lunch menu) www.getstirred.net

Sweet Bay Coffee and other coffee shops offer a variety of caffine-flavored drinks to suit anyone’s taste. SPOTLIGHT ON CRAWFORD COUNTY - 2017 | 7

DINING OUT

BARBECUE JC’s Bar-B-Q Place, Van Buren. 2421 Kibler Road, 479-262-2544. Cadillac Grill BBQ & Catering Co., Alma, 3603 North Highway 71 (at A to Z). 479-632-4008. (Breakfast and lunch) Kopper Kettle Smokehouse, Van Buren, 6310 Alma Highway, 479-9949. (Breakfast and lunch)

SANDWICH SHOP Daily Bread, Van Buren, 513 South 4th Street, 479-471-1982. (Drive-In) www.dbread.net

DONUTS Paul’s Bakery, Van Buren, 1800 Main Street, 479-474-7044. (Also makes custom cakes and cupcakes)

Each fall Kopper Kettle Kettle Kandies offers a selection of candy apples. In the spring Kooper Kettle Kandies provide chocolate-covered strawberries. Donut Palace, Van Buren, 1514 Fayetteville

Geno’s Pizza By The Slice, Van Buren, 1611

Road. 479-689-5030.

North 7th Street, 479-474-7400. http://www.genospizzabytheslice.com/

Smith’s Donuts, Alma, 641 Highway 71, 479-430Geno’s Pizza By The Slice, Alma, 216 Highway

7620

71 North, 479-632-6060. Super Donuts, Mulberry, 309 Highway 64, 479-

http://www.genospizzaofalma.com

297-6015 Pizza Parlour, Van Buren, 2700 Alma Highway,

DESSERTS

479-474-7066

Sweet Boutique, Van Buren, 46 Cloverleaf Plaza, 479-474-2767.

Pizza Parlour, Alma, 936 Highway 71, 479-632-

http://www.sweetboutiquecakes.com/

4176

Kopper Kettle Candies, Van Buren, 6300 Alma

Lee’s Pizza, Cedarville, 9541 Highway 59 North,

Highway, 479-474-6077

479-262-6699

http://www.kopperkettlecandies.com/

PIZZA Pizza Place, Alma, 108 Highway 71, No. 110, 479632-0770

8 | 2017 - SPOTLIGHT ON CRAWFORD COUNTY

Sky-Vue Pizza, South of Winslow on Scenic Highway 71, 479-634-2003 (Friday, Saturday carry out only)

DINING OUT

ASIAN Saku Saku (Hibachi & Sushi), Van Buren, 1431 Fayetteville Road, 479-276-3331 (food truck) Vincent’s Chinese Restaurant, Van Buren, 1119 Eastend Plaza, 479-471-8543 Golden Wok, Van Buren, 2308 Fayetteville Road, 479-471-8986 China Fun, Alma, 536 Highway 71 North, 6328288 Hong Kong Restaurant, Van Buren, 1402 Fayetteville Road, 479-471-5500 http://www.hongkongvanburen.com/ Thai Curry, Van Buren, 518 North Plaza Court, 479-471-1409 Kabita Hibachi Grill, 824 Highway 71 North, 479-431-1901 (Food truck)

INDIAN Kountry Xpress, Mulberry, 1107 Georgia Ridge Drive, 479-997-1917

TEX-MEX La Huerta, Van Buren, 1915 Main Street, 479471-0113 El Lorito, Van Buren, 511 Broadway Street, 479410-2463 Las Fresas, Van Buren, 613 North Plaza Court, 479-474-2580 La Fiesta, Van Buren, 2217 Fayetteville Road, 479-471-5558 El Super Taco, Van Buren, 2624 Bryan Road, 479-410-5304 (Drive-Thru) El Trio, Alma, 214 Highway 64, 479-632-0248

SPOTLIGHT ON CRAWFORD COUNTY - 2017 | 9

Spotlight on.... Celebrate Mulberry July 1 Mulberry will have its Celebrate Mulberry family event at Kirksey Park with live music from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Fireworks start at about 9 p.m. There also will be refreshments, activities and vendor booths. For more information call the Mulberry Fire Department at (479)997-1321.

Fireworks on the Hill July 1 Beyond Church will host a fireworks display on the hill across from Hilltop Plaza on the Rudy exit off Interstate 49. The event will have music, food and activities for kids beginning at 5:30 p.m. followed by a 20-minute fireworks display.

it’s the simple things... like grandchildren‌or a simple arrangement of owers especially customized for you by our specialists!

City of Dyer 4th of July Celebration July 1 Beginning at 6 p.m. at the community building on Loomis Lane in Dyer, the event will have food and activities with fireworks at dusk.

Mayor’s July 3rd Celebration

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July 3 in Alma There will be fireworks beginning at dusk and a late night swim at the Alma Aquatic Park, with food vendors and entertainment. Music will be 6:30-8:30 p.m. For more information call (479)632-4110.

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Van Buren’s July 4th Fireworks Display July 4 The fireworks celebration wil be held at dusk at the Field of Dreams Sports Complex. Gates open at 7 p.m. For more information call (479)471-1541.

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Summer! Taste of Crawford County gives area residents a chance to sample what the county has to offer and raise money for a good cause.

The fireworks show is ready for it to get dark.

Mountainburg’s July Celebration July 4 The fireworks celebration will be held just after dark at the old truck stop on exit 39 off I-49 in Mountainburg. Music in the Park will be held at the mayor’s farm before the fireworks display beginning at 6 p.m. For more information call (479) 369-2791.

Taste of Crawford County Aug. 8 in Van Buren Court Appointed Special Advocates of Crawford County presents the annual event, with culinary delights from around the world. Sessions will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 5 to 7 p.m. in the Commons Area of Van Buren High School.

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Tickets are $10 in advance or $15 at the door.

Bargains Galore on 64 Aug. 10-12 Bargains Galore is a 160-mile yard sale along

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U.S. 64. For more information contact Linda Hiles at 1-888-568-3552.

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Spotlight on.... Fall Festival Arts and Crafts Fair Oct. 13-15 in Van Buren Autumn is welcomed in old-fashioned style as Van Buren opens historic Main Street for the Fall Festival. Over 200 exhibitors displaying fine artwork, handcrafted items, antiques, collectibles and flea market finds. Friday will feature live music at 6 p.m. and Saturday at 6:30 p.m. Event will be held rain or shine. For more information contact Alan Foliart at (479) 922-6862.

Crawford County Fair Sept. 11-16 in Mulberry Held in Kirksey Park in Mulberry, fair events include livestock exhibit, parade, midway, beauty pageant, talent contest. For more information contact (479)997-5301.

Other Events.... Mountainburg Music in the Park Sept. 23 A themed live music event will be held in Mountainburg City Park.

Pirates Day Festival in Cedarville Fall Pirates Day Festival in the Park will be at the Cedarville City Park. The arts and crafts festival will include vendors, music, food and kids activities.

Halloween on Main Street Oct. 28 The Old Town Merchants Association is hosting Halloween on Main Street with the 400-700 blocks closed during the event beginning at dusk. This year’s festivities also will include a children’s costume contest.

12 | 2017 - SPOTLIGHT ON CRAWFORD COUNTY

Fall! Tales of the Crypt Oct. 22 in Van Buren Annual Tales of the Crypt is held at the beautiful and historic Fairview Cemetery 2-4 p.m. on Sunday. Historical portrayals will give people a walking, talking description of Van Buren’s rich past. Cost is $3 for adults and $1 for children.

Van Buren Veterans Day Parade Nov. 9, Main Street A patriotic parade to honor veterans will be held at 6:30 p.m. For more information contact Les Thomas, Jr. at (479) 652-3374.

SPOTLIGHT ON CRAWFORD COUNTY - 2017 | 13

Spotlight on.... Living Windows, Lighting of Courthouse and Festival of Trees Dec. 2 in Van Buren Van Buren’s Historic Main Street becomes a living history lesson as merchants have live window displays depicting Van Buren’s colorful history starting at 5:30 p.m. The lighting of the courthouse is at 6 p.m. The festival of trees will also be the same night. For more information on the Lighting of the Courthouse (479)474-1511 or Festival of Trees (479)474-2761.

Van Buren Lighted Christmas Parade Dec. 10 Van Buren’s historic Main Street will be blocked off for the annual nighttime Christmas Parade, which begins at 6:30 p.m. All entries will be lighted. Everyone from antique car owners to children on bicycles are encouraged to attend. For more information call (479) 922-6862.

Dyer Christmas Parade Dec. 16 Dyer Christmas Parade will be held on Washington Street at 7 p.m. with line up at 6:45 p.m.

Mountainburg Christmas Parade December Mountainburg’s parade will begin at 11 a.m. with line up at 10:30 a.m. at the old truck stop. The route will end at Mountainburg Elementary School. Santa will be at the school to hand out gifts. Trophies will be awarded for best float and other categories. A date has not yet been set.

14 | 2017 - SPOTLIGHT ON CRAWFORD COUNTY

Winter! Mulberry Christmas Parade Dec. 2 Mulberry Christmas Parade will be held at 1 p.m. beginning on Main Street and ending at Kirksey Park, where kids can meet Santa.

Cedarville Christmas Parade December A date is not yet set, but the parade will be held at about 6:30 p.m. with the route from Cedarville Elementary School to Cedarville High School.

The Drennen-Scott House lights up for Christmas.

SPOTLIGHT ON CRAWFORD COUNTY - 2017 | 15

Spotlight on.... Edamame Festival April 7 (date may change) in Mulberry Mulberry will hold its fifth annual Edamame Festival from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m in Mulberry City Park. The festival will have activities and entertainment for all ages, including music, shopping, food and games. For more information call (479) 997-1321.

Pioneer Days Parade May 26 in Van Buren A parade of local riding clubs will be held at 1 p.m. on Main Street, beginning at the Crawford County Courthouse. For more information call Tammi at (479) 474-2581.

Farmer’s Market Farmer’s markets have been growing in the area, and those looking for fresh produce, flowers, homemade goods, crafts and even livestock can find them in Van Buren, Alma, Chester (pictured on right), and Cedarville.

16 | 2017 - SPOTLIGHT ON CRAWFORD COUNTY

Spring! Old Timers Day Arts & Crafts Festival May 18-20 in Van Buren A two-day arts and crafts festival held annually on Historic Main Street from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Six blocks of Van Buren’s Main Street will be closed off to provide space for more than 200 exhibitors from more than seven states. A variety of food and entertainment will be available. Friday evening will feature a concert, and a children’s carnival will also be available.

SPOTLIGHT ON CRAWFORD COUNTY - 2017 | 17

ELECTED OFFICIALS

U.S. CONGRESS • The Hon. John Boozman, U.S. Senator. Senate Russell Courtyard 1, Washington, D.C., 20510, 202-224-4843. Fax 202-228-1371. • The Hon. Tom Cotton, U.S. Senator. 124 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C., 20510, 202-224-2353. • The Hon. Bruce Westerman, U.S. Representative. Washington, D.C., 202-

• Circuit Clerk Sharon Blount-Baker, Crawford County Courthouse, Van Buren, Ark., 72956, 479-474-1821. • County Treasurer Beverly Pyle, Crawford County Courthouse, Van Buren, Ark., 72956, 479-474-6641. • Sheriff Ron Brown, P.O. Box 276, Van Buren, Ark., 72956, 479-474-2261. • Tax Collector Kevin Pixley, Crawford County Courthouse, Van Buren, Ark., 72956, 479-474-1111.

224-3121. • The Hon. Steve Womack, U.S. Representative. Washington, D.C. office: 1508 Longworth Building, Washington, D.C., 20515, 202-225-4301. Fax 202-

• Assessor Sandra Heiner, Crawford County Courthouse, Van Buren, Ark., 72956, 479-474-1751. • Coroner Pamela Wells, Crawford County Courthouse, Van Buren, Ark.,

225-5713.

72956, 479-471-3231.

STATE OFFICIALS • The Hon. Asa Hutchinson, governor. State Capitol, Little Rock, Ark., 72201, 501-682-2345. • The Hon. Tim Griffin, lieutenant governor. State Capitol, Little Rock, Ark., 72201, 501-682-2144. • The Hon. Mark Martin, secretary of state. State Capitol, Little Rock, Ark., 72201, 501-682-1010. • The Hon. Leslie Rutledge, attorney general. 323 Center St., Suite 200, Little Rock, Ark., 72201, 501-682-2007. • The Hon. Dennis Milligan, treasurer. State Capitol, Little Rock, Ark., 72201, 501-682-5888. • The Hon. Andrea Lea, auditor. State Capitol, Little Rock, Ark., 72201, 501-324-6030. • The Hon. John M. Thurston, land commissioner. State Capitol, Little Rock, Ark., 72201, 501-324-9222. • The Hon. Terry Rice, state senator. P.O. Box 2195, Waldron, Ark., 72958, 479-650-9712. • The Hon. Bryan King, state senator. 206 Hillcrest Dr., Berryville, Ark., 72616, 870-438-4565. • The Hon. Charlotte Douglas, state representative. 5315 Ridge Road, Alma, Ark., 72921, 479-430-0170. • The Hon. Gary Deffenbaugh, state representative. 1424 N. 9th St., Van Buren, Ark., 72956, 479-474-5895, 479-719-8197. • The Hon. Charlene Fite, state representative. P.O. Box 7300, Van Buren, Ark., 72957, 479-414-1818. • The Hon. Bruce Coleman, state representative. 1198 N. Arkansas 348, Mountainburg, Ark., 72946, 479-806-6825. • The Hon. Gary R. Cottrell, circuit judge, District 21, Division 1. Crawford County Courthouse, Van Buren, Ark., 72956, 479-474-6332. • The Hon. Mike Medlock, circuit judge, District 21, Division 2. 104 S. 4th St., Van Buren, Ark., 72956, 479-471-3290.

COUNTY OFFICIALS • County Judge Dennis Gilstrap, Crawford County Courthouse, Van Buren, Ark., 72956, 479-474-1511. • County and Probate Clerk Teresa Armer, Crawford County Courthouse, Van Buren, Ark., 72956, 479-474-1312.

18 | 2017 - SPOTLIGHT ON CRAWFORD COUNTY

• Prosecuting Attorney Marc McCune, 206 S. 3rd St., Van Buren, Ark., 72956, 479-474-5000.

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SHOPPING LOCAL

A variety of shopping experiences can be found

big box retailers to family-owned establishments.

featuring the latest fashions.

throughout Crawford County. Van Buren has both regional grocery chains

In Van Buren are a number of nationally

For those looking to do some shopping, Alma

and city-based butchers, florists, and poultry

recognized retailers such as Lowe’s, Walmart,

and Van Buren have many selections to try. Both

stores, and the city has seen an increase in

Walgreens and CVS Pharmacy.

cities offer a variety of options for consumers, from

the number of specialty boutiques and shops On Main Street, visitors can find Main Street Interiors, which specializes in custom furniture creations and window treatments, Firefly Boutique, which features women’s clothing, jewelry, and accessories, and Creative’s Furnishings, which has vintage kitchenware, embroidered tea towels and creative children’s books. At Chapters on Main, guests can enjoy a cup of coffee or cup of tea while searching for a great new or old book. Avid antique collectors also will enjoy the shopping on Main Street Van Buren. Creative Furnishings repurposes vintage furniture for new use. It also stocks paint for those who wish to do their own projects. Downtown Alma is home to Petals and Stems, an award winning florist and floral design store that has fresh flowers and designs as well as silk arrangements and other home-décor. Ink advertising, also downtown, has custom made shirts for sale in their showroom. Many are local and unique creations. One unique shopping experience may be

Cozy Quilts in Mulberry provides fabric and machine quilting.

AireLooms, located inside the Alma High School, which is managed and ran by students. Airedales are the school mascot in Alma, and Airelooms celebrates all things Airedale. Team fans and Airedale enthusiasts alike can find something at this one-of-a-kind store. Creations, located off U.S. 64, does monogramming and screen printing, and also carries educational toys, such as the Melissa and Doug line. Cato Fashions is located in front of Walmart and carries clothing for females and young girls. Cracker Barrel and Coleman Pharmacy also have a gift shop as part of their stores, with unique and trendy gift items, and stock

20 | 2017 - SPOTLIGHT ON CRAWFORD COUNTY

SHOPPING LOCAL that constantly changes.

Street in 2017 with the completion of the new

Cozy Quilts, located in Mulberry, provides fabrics for sale but also does machine quilting for those

pavilions next to the train depot.

who love to make quilt tops, but not quilt them. Alma’s market hours One of the most interactive shopping

will be Tuesdays from 3

experiences in Alma is the wide variety of antique

p.m. to 7 p.m. for produce

stores and flea markets. Angel’s Crossing is located

only, and Saturdays 8 a.m.

in the heart of Alma, just off the Hwy 71 and 64

to noon for all vendors.

intersection. Following Hwy 71 North of Alma will lead to more antique store and flea market choices, such as Sister’s Antique Mall.

Local festivals include, in Van Buren, Old Timer’s Day in May and the Fall

North of Alma is also the location of A to Z

Festival in October, and

variety stores. From Sporting Goods to Gifts, to

the Alma Spinach Festival

Fashion, Tools, Accessories, and Handbags, A to

in April. Vendors from

Z is several stores in one location. It is a regional

all over Arkansas and

destination for a discount shopping experience.

surrounding states take part in the festivals.

Just past Alma is Dean’s Furniture, a family business that is often featured in At Home

Creative Furnishings provides repurposed furniture and supplies for those who want do their own.

Arkansas or Do South Magazines for its unique furniture and home furnishings. Large retailers such as Dollar General, Walmart, and Walgreens are also in town, as well as regional store Meador’s Lumber Company. Farmer’s markets have been growing in the area, and those looking for fresh produce, flowers, homemade goods, crafts and even livestock can find them in Van Buren, Alma, Chester, and Cedarville. Chester’s country-style farmers’ market and poultry swaps are held Saturdays on Front Street across from the Chester Country Cafe from 8 a.m. to noon, while Cedarville holds its market every Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to noon in the parking lot of the Old Rock Schoolhouse. The Van Buren Farmer’s Market is open Wednesdays and Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Van Buren Public Library parking lot from April through December. Vendors carry locally grown fruits, vegetables, herbs and plants, free-range eggs, local honey, homemade breads, jams, jellies, and other items. It will move to Main

SPOTLIGHT ON CRAWFORD COUNTY - 2017 | 21

HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY

Shortly after the first fort in what would be Fort Smith was constructed, David Boyd arrived

William Harris Crawford also served as Secretary of

at the future town site of Van Buren in 1818 as a

War (1815-16), ambassador to France (1813-15) and U.S.

log raiser.

senator (1807-13). Crawford was nominated by Georgia

Thomas Martin arrived later and was assisted

(his home state) for vice president in 1828, but withdrew

by Boyd in building a log house for Martin, who

his nomination due to lack of support from other states.

claimed squatters rights to the land. A few others

He considered running for vice president in 1832, but

gathered around Martin’s home and it became a

decided against it in favor of Martin Van Buren. Crawford was the leading nomination of the

boat landing and a small settlement.

Democratic-Republican Party in 1824, but a stroke put

Daniel and Thomas Phillips purchased Martin’s

him out of the running.

claim in 1819, the same year Arkansas was organized as a territory of the United States. The

When he was a state legislator in 1802, Crawford killed

Phillips construct a wood yard to supply fuel for

an ally, Peter Van Alen, of a political rival, John Clark in

the steamboat traffic along the Arkansas River.

a duel. Clark, injured Crawford in another duel in 1806.

The community was named “Phillips Landing.” The first post office at Phillips Landing was

mile below Van Buren, was established sometime

after Arkansas became a territory in October

officially established on March 30, 1831 and was

prior or in 1832. The first mention of the settlement

1820. Crawford County was the eighth in what

named for President Andrew Jackson’s new

was when Edward Cunningham relocated his

was included in Arkansas Territory, as five were

secretary of state, Martin Van Buren. Thomas

mercantile business from Van Buren to Columbus.

formed while it was part of the Missouri Territory.

Phillips became the town’s first postmaster

Later records show that John Henry &

The county is named in honor of William

Company — which included John Drennen and

Harris Crawford of Georgia, then Secretary of

David Thompson — moved into Cunningham’s

the Treasury (1816-1825) for both Presidents James

building in 1835. Also, during that year,

Madison and James Monroe.

general. A new settlement called Columbus, about a

Drennen represented Crawford County at the

At the time of the formation the area was

Constitutional Convention and assisted in the

occupied by Osage and Cherokee tribes. The

drafting of the first Arkansas Constitution.

lands weren’t formally ceded by the tribes until

Drennen and Thompson later bought the

June 2, 1825 (Osage) and April 15, 1843 (Cherokee).

townsite of Van Buren from Thomas Phillips for

Fort Smith was established to help quell some

$11,000 sometime in 1837 after Arkansas officially

of the fighting between the tribes and various

became a state in June 1936. Soon, Van Buren

treaties, dating back to 1801 worked to establish

became the center of distribution of goods for

what lands the tribes had remaining.

Northwest Arkansas and ferrying supplies and troops across the river to Fort Smith.

The county was expanded in 1821 and the border continued to grow or contract until it

The old Fort Smith at Belle Point was

was settled upon in 1881 when the boundary line

decommissioned in 1837 and the U.S. Government

between Crawford and Washington counties was

searched for a new site for a fort. The bluff at

formally established.

the mouth of Lee’s Creek was considered, but

THE COURTHOUSE

problems of water supply and transportation to the bluff outweighed the advantages. The site for

Prior to 1821, the first county seat of Crawford

the new fort was purchased and built across the

County was in the home of John Jay, who lived

river.

on the north side of the Arkansas River between

Van Buren was first incorporated as a town by

the eastern and western boundaries of the county.

the state legislature on Dec. 24, 1842. The town

Since then the county courthouse has moved

was re-incorporated on Jan. 4, 1845.

at least five times (including a location in Fort Smith and Logan County) by 1838. The Arkansas

HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY Crawford County was the third one formed

22 | 2017 - SPOTLIGHT ON CRAWFORD COUNTY

General Assembly formally established Van Buren as the county seat (“seat of justice” as it was called then).

HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY The first court sessions were held in a one-room

reconstruction, the

log house with a shed room for the clerk’s office

original cupola

and was utilized for a few years before until the

was replaced and

courthouse was built.

the town clock was

On the condition that Van Buren would remain

installed.

the permanent home of the county courthouse,

The courthouse

Drennen and Thompson donated land, the public

was remodeled

square, in 1839.

in 1940 with an

In the Battle of Van Buren, Dec. 28, 1862, the building escaped damage by the Federal troops,

additional new wing built as well.

but all the records of the years 1855 to 1860 housed there, were destroyed. From 1854 until the start of the Civil War,

ALMA The land on

Van Buren was host to the Federal Court of the

which

Alma

Western District of Arkansas. The Federal Court

now stands was

was later moved to Fort Smith in 1871, where it

bought from the

permanently resides.

The public hall, used as a school, church and

government by Armstead Smoot between 1835

other public purposes, was constructed in 1872

The courthouse burned on March 23, 1877. Most

and 1840. The property changed hands three

near the site of the present school. By early 1876,

of the county records, dating back to 1820, were

times up until the Civil War until it was sold to Col.

the Little Rock-Fort Smith railroad had the line

destroyed. An election was held to determine

Mathias F. Locke, who built the first house in 1868

completed to Alma.

wether to keep the courthouse in Van Buren or

or 1869. The first post office was established near

The first canning company operating in

move it to Alma. Van Buren won. During the

the corner of Main and Fayetteville by early 1872.

Alma was the Alma Canning and Evaporation

SPOTLIGHT ON CRAWFORD COUNTY - 2017 | 23

HISTORY OF CRAWFORD COUNTY

Company, incorporated in August 1888.

CEDARVILLE

FIGURE FIVE

store and dwelling house became the nucleus for the new settlement.

Cedarville was settled at about 1835, but it was

The first store was erected in 1904 and the

not surveyed until 1879 and then incorporated in

first post office was established in either 1904 or

1881. The first store was erected by Charles Crowell

1905. However, the first Baptist church had been

The town of Rudy was originally called Kenton

in 1875 just north of where the present post office is

constructed in 1902 followed by a Methodist church

and was settled about 1830. Land was deeded to

now located.

in 1909. The earliest settlers were recorded to have

Frisco railroad to help ease the transportation of

been in the area in 1840.

cotton to Alma or Van Buren. By the turn of the

CHESTER

LOG TOWN

The land was being developed as early as 1839,

RUDY

century, Rudy had its own cotton mill, grist mill and a saw mill.

but it wasn’t until 1884 with the completion of the

(Collinsville or North Van Buren)

Frisco Railroad that the area saw growth. Prior to

The town was first settled in 1828. The North Van

the completion, Captain J.C. Wright erected a small

Buren Methodist Church was reorganized in 1886

Originally called Hickory Grove, it was settled in

building to house the post office and to keep a few

after the membership dissolved sometime after

1850 by Henry Howell of Tennessee. The name was

groceries.

1856. The area was called “City Heights” after 1906.

changed to Unionville and then to its current name.

The Frisco roundhouse, and a repair shop were

MOUNTAINBURG

completed by July 1887 and gave employment to about 100 men. Later that year a general

The present site of Mountainburg was purchased

merchandise store and a drug store were also in

by George Dyer in 1846 and land was given to the

place. J.W. Emerson started a saw mill in the fall of

Frisco railroad in 1882.

1887 to supply the railway company.

DYER

MULBERRY

UNIONTOWN

The first store was built prior to 1861 and shortly thereafter a mill and cotton gin was constructed.

OTHER NOTABLES The first newspaper to be published in Van Buren was the “Intelligencer” in 1842. This paper was in existence in 1859. The same year that the

The act in 1895 which redrew the Crawford and

“Intelligencer” was discontinued, the Van Buren

The land where Dyer sits was purchased from

Johnson County lines put Mulberry in Crawford

Press made its appearancde with Joseph Starr

the railroad company in 1880 by S.M. Dyer, but the

County. The home of Dr. T.A. Carter, located east

Dunham as owner and editor. The first isssue was

area was first settled by Steve and George Dyer.

of Main Street, was the first dwelling when it was

printed on July 6, 1859 and continued until January

The railroad was completed in 1876 and the first

erected in 1874. A store and another residence were

23, 1862. Due to the Civil War it was impossible to

depot was constructed in 1887. The first grocery store

constructed by 1876 and the next store appeared in

obtain paper for printing. On February 3, 1866, the

was located in the depot. Later J.W. Moss operated

1877. Mulberry incorporated in 1880.

“Van Buren Press” was again printed after a lapse

a separate grocery store near the depot.

NATURAL DAM

The first cotton gin and grist mill was running in 1888. On June 30, 1909, the entire business section of Dyer was burned and nothing was saved.

The area was settled as early as 1828 and a

of 4 years. Mr. Dunham, as editor and publisher, printed the Van Buren Press for 48 years, from 1859 until the day of his death in 1912.

newer settlement, a few miles south of the dam right on Highway 59, began after 1870. In 1876, a

The Little Rock and Fort Smith railway was organized in 1853. The first president of the Company was John Drennen of Van Buren. On June 24, 1876, the first train entered Van Buren from Little Rock. The railway continued to opposite Fort Smith where passengers and cargo was moved across the Arkansas river on big flat boats. In 1916 the St. Louis Iron Mountain and Southern was re-named the Missouri Pacific railway. The Frisco, the St. Louis and San Francisco railway, was completed from St. Louis, Missouri, to Van Buren in June 1882. On March 28, 1960, the last Missouri Pacific passenger train made its last run from Van Buren to Coffeyville, Kansas. The Frisco passenger

24 | 2017 - SPOTLIGHT ON CRAWFORD COUNTY

DRENNEN-SCOTT HOUSE

The Drennen-Scott homestead offers insight to how the area was shaped by history. A historic home has brought Crawford County

and ready for displaying the items. Other partners

homestead played a role in various segments of

and the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith together

in the restoration venture have included the City

history through the years.

in new ways.

of Van Buren and the Van Buren Advertising and

A variety of visitors have flocked to the area

Promotions Commission.

John Drennen was a founder of Van Buren, politician, Indian agent, landowner and

eager to see the restoration of a significant

Those who visit the Drennen-Scott Historic Site

businessman. Charles Scott was Drennen’s business

community landmark since the site opened in May

will first start at the Visitor’s Center, which the

partner who eventually became interested in

2011.

University built on the corner of the property.

seeking Drennen’s eldest daughter’s hand in

Tom Wing, site director, said guests have come from virtually every state across the country. Wing said the site, as planned, has rotating exhibits. The Arkansas Humanities Council exhibit

Wing said the local sight-seers have been

marriage. Charles and Caroline Scott inherited

expressing pride in the landmark as well as

control of the estate after Drennen’s death in 1855.

appreciation for the work that has gone into the

The Drennen-Scott Historic Site and Visitor Center

project.

is located at 221 North 3rd St. Admission is free and

on the Civil War has been on display, as well as an

The historically preserved property gives residents

open to the public Thursdays 1-5 p.m. and Friday

exhibit from the Arkansas Department of Heritage

of the region, as well as guests to the state, an

and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Donations are

about the Arkansas Traveler.

opportunity to look back in time to the mid 1800s

accepted. For more information or to book a group

and to discover something about how the old

tour, call (479) 262-2750 during operating hours.

“The site is turning into a venue for special exhibits showcasing the history of the Drennen-Scott family and the City of Van Buren, as well as the whole State of Arkansas,” said Wing. The University’s ties to the Crawford County property began when UAFS obtained what was called the Drennen-Scott Home from descendants of John Drennen. UAFS then received several grants from the Arkansas Natural and Cultural Resources Council, first to purchase the property and later to restore it. The Arkansas Department of Heritage purchased collections from the home and stored them until the house restoration was complete

SPOTLIGHT ON CRAWFORD COUNTY - 2017 | 25

KIRKSEY MATERNITY HOSPITAL

The hospital established in the 1920s to provide community space for county residents.

Placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2007 as the Bryant-Lasater House because of its original owners, the building at 770 N. Main St. in Mulberry is best known as the maternity hospital and office of Dr. Odell J. Kirksey, who began practicing medicine in Mulberry in the 1920s. Visitors may tour the lower level of the building, which has been completely restored, said Monica Freeland, mayor’s assistant and granddaughter to Dr. Kirksey, as he is still called. Those restoration efforts include new flooring, sheet rock and interior paint, and restored trim and molding. “It’s just phenomenal what those working on [the

hospital] have been able to do,” Freeland said. “They have just put in countless numbers of hours, and it’s all volunteer.”

house to the City of Mulberry on Feb. 5, 2004. A committee was organized in April 2013 to begin cleaning and repairing the building. Some

Dr. Kirksey died in 1966, and after renting it out

of those who have worked on the building include

for several decades, the Kirksey family deeded the

Mary Lowrimore, Jimmy and Donna Moore, and Harlene Jackson, head of the restoration committee. Grant money, donations and assistance from Kirksey family members helped pay for the costs of restoring what many consider an important piece of Mulberry’s history. A room off the front entrance believed to be Dr. Kirksey’s office is set up as a miniature museum of sorts with some of his instruments and items from the hospital. Whenever the office room is ready, it open for viewing but not accessible. Other portions of the lower floor are sssavailable for rent or reserved for meetings, receptions or weddings.

26 | 2017 - SPOTLIGHT ON CRAWFORD COUNTY

TRAIN EXCURSION

The Arkansas & Missouri Railroad continues its run for passengers offering various excursions throughout the year. The three-hour tour from Van Buren to Winslow covers 70 miles in coach class seating rolling over trestles and through the Winslow tunnel. The same trip is popular during the fall for folks to marvel at the changing foliage. Passengers will have velvet-style seating in 191720’s vintage Pullman coach cars. The tour will provide passenger conductors to relate the rich history with commentary. The trip begins at the Old Frisco Station, a Van Buren landmark and welcome center. Soon, passengers are wisked through bluffs and valleys of the Boston Mountains, over the Arkansas River and through a quarter-mile tunnel. Passengers will begin boarding at 10:45 a.m. with an 11 a.m. departure on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from late March through September. The tour requires 48 hours minimum advance booking. Order online at www.vanburentours. com. Snacks are available for purchase during the tour.

SPOTLIGHT ON CRAWFORD COUNTY - 2017 | 27

CONNECTING THE C TO THE CLASSROO VBSD understands that schools are made stronger and students are more likely to succeed when classrooms are connected to the community. Ser ving nearly 6,000 students, the Van Buren School District seeks to provide ever y child with a highquality education, which includes oppor tunities that extend outside of a school’s four walls.

Each month, VBHS students engage with local professionals through the Van Buren Chamber of Commerce’s Junior Lunches. The sessions enable juniors to ask questions related to college, career, and other subjects. This par tnership between the EDUCATION COMMITTEE District and the Chamber Education Committee provides a unique opportunity for interaction between the leaders of today and tomorrow. 28 | 2017 - SPOTLIGHT ON CRAWFORD COUNTY

Students, parents, faculty, staff, volunteers, citizens, and local businesses are all important stakeholders for VBSD, which is why the District works hard to communicate using a widerange of mediums. VBSD’s userfriendly website provides a wealth of information for all groups, in addition to individuals and corporations potentially looking to locate in the area. Social media helps teachers and schools share daily announcements and reminders, and gives VBSD an opportunity to keep followers informed about District happenings. Text alerts, emails, and paper communications are also employed year-round. The District also seeks to highlight exciting events and achievements at each of its campuses through spotlights in regional news sources.

ne Ga Va Ha lo w ex

COMMUNITY OOM

ff, cal nt ch rd eerth ps, nd to ps ts to gs. re ks at al

Teaching children about the importance of healthy living means giving them access to nutritious foods. King and Tate Elementary Schools are participants in the FoodCorps program, which weaves nutrition education across the curriculum and gets students in the garden and trying new foods. Both campuses feature Project Learning Gardens made possible by organizations including the Van Buren Education Foundation, Dole Packaged Foods, Harps, the Captain Planet Foundation, and numerous local businesses and volunteers. Parkview and Rena will launch FoodCorps in 2017-2018. VBSD plans to expand the program to other schools in the future.

In 2017, Butterfield Trail Middle School was named the recipient of ASCD’s Vision in Action: The Whole Child Award. The prestigious honor recognizes schools that have moved beyond a vision for educating the whole child to actions that result in learners who are knowledgeable, emotionally and physically healthy, civically active, artistically engaged, prepared for economic self-sufficiency, and ready for the world beyond formal schooling. Student-led conferences, after school power hours, and Expeditionary Learning Units are among just a few of the strategies Butterfield staff employ to help better engage students and promote children’s overall well-being.

VB

SD IN

Launching in 2017-18, VBSD’s new Partners in Education program will give local businesses, organizations, and individuals the ability to engage one-on-one with schools. Partners will support one another year-round by offering their time, talent, and other resources. The mutuallybeneficial partnership will allow schools to show their partners appreciation through services such as choral entertainment at company events, birthday cards to employees, and other possibilities. Learn more at VBSD.us/district/partners-in-education.

partners

SPOTLIGHT ON CRAWFORD COUNTY - 2017 | 29

RECREATION

Crawford County has a variety of recreational activities, ranging from boating on the Arkansas River during the summer, golfing at one of four courses; in addition to hunting, hiking or camping at one of the nearby state parks.

SWIMMING POOLS Alma Aquatics Center, located north on Highway 71 (turn right on Collum, then left at the sign) is open form noon-7 p.m. daily. The water park has two swimming pools with eight slides and a couple of play areas, including one with a covered wading pool for the younger swimmers. The Aquatics Center is available for private parties. There is a large pavilion adjacent to the Aquatic Center is also available for parties. The pavilion must be reserved for use during the regular season. The season begins on Memorial Day weekend and continues until Labor Day wekend. Call (479) 632-0700 for more information to make a reservation.

Picnic tables at Bluff Hole provide lots of summer fun.

SWIMMING

constructed a new all-digital, eight-screen theater

Bluff Hole Park located along Highway 64 in

back in 2007. The theater has matinee shows

Mulberry. The bluffs are in Franklin County but

during the summer, holidays and weekends.

• Field of Dreams in Van Buren, located on Lee

the water is in Crawford County. Has 13 picnic

Malco also has a room set aside for birthday

Creek Road. Get on I-40 heading west towards

tables and a pavilion for group functions. Cost is

parties, (479) 424-1888.

Oklahoma. The complex includes little league

$5 per day use fee.

MOVIE THEATER

BASEBALL/SOFTBALL FIELDS

fields, high school fields and newly added softball

TENNIS COURTS

fields.

• Located near Van Buren High School on East

• Alma has a baseball/softball complex behind the

Malco Cinema, located on Pointer Trail between

Pointer Trail.

high school.

Highway 59 and Van Buren High School,

• Located near the Alma Aquatics Center. FLYING DISC GOLF • Alma Flying Disc Golf Course, 18-hole course.

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Mountain Grove Road. • Alma Middle School, 9-hole course. 706 Highway 64 East. • Mulberry City Park, 9-hole course. 419 Highway

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64 West. • Practice courses, located next to Butterfield Trail Middle School, Van Buren Freshman Academy

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30 | 2017 - SPOTLIGHT ON CRAWFORD COUNTY

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and Van Buren High School. Park Road.

RECREATION

The view at Eagle Crest near Alma in Crawford County

GOLF • Cedars Country Club, a 9-hole course carved from a thick, wooded hillside within the Van Buren city limits. It offers a unique challenge to golfers of any age. Each hole has two sets of tees to allow a full-round of 18 holes. The course underwent a large renovation that installed a new irrigation system. It’s a par 71 course that measures 6,109 yards. Cedars has 4 par three holes, 3 par five holes, and 11 par four holes. Phone: (479) 474-2412. • Eagle Crest, nestled in the Ozark Mountains with towering trees. Eagle Crest lies on a highrolling terrain east of Alma. The par 71 course measures 6,869 yards from the blue tees, 6,246 yards from the white tees and 5,254 yards from the red tees. Eagle crest has 6 par three holes, 5 par five holes and 7 par four holes. Phone: 1-888-966-GOLF. • River Valley Golf, sits quietly off Highway 64 east of Alma. River Valley golf offers much for the average golfer. The par 71 course measures 5,627 yards from the

SPOTLIGHT ON CRAWFORD COUNTY - 2017 | 31

RECREATION

blue tees, 5,189 yards from the white tees and 4,097 from the red tees. River Valley Golf has 5 par three holes, 4 par five holes and 9 par four holes. Phone: (479) 997-1188. • Winn Mountain Golf Course, located eight miles north of Alma off of Highway 71. The par 70 course measures 5,524 yards from the blue tees; 5,209 yards from the white tees; 4,433 yards from the gold tees and 3,777 yards from the red tees. Winn Mountain Golf Course has 6 par three holes, 8 par four, and 4 par five. Call (479) 662-6007.

RACING Crawford County Speedway hosts racing each Saturday from March to October. The track hosts six classes of stock car racing with special Powder Puff, Mechanics and Vintage stock classes on occasion.

From March to October drivers from area and neighboring states race at Crawford County Speedway.

The track is located six miles north of Van Buren

including in Crawford County. The most popular is

• Lake Lou Emma. Located just north of I-40

on Highway 59.

deer season which is broken down into six separate

in Van Buren on Highway 59, behind McDonald’s.

Visit www.crawfordcountyspeedway.net.

seasons (Archery, Christmas Holiday Modern Gun,

Largemouth, smallmouth and spotted bass

Modern Gun, Muzzleloader, Private Land and a

combined daily limit is five. The catfish daily limit

SHOOTING

special Youth Modern Gun). Crawford County has

is five. Open to fishing with rod or pole only and

Old Fort Gun Club. Maintains two separate ranges.

three separate deer hunting zones (1A, Zone 6 and

there is a handicapped-accessible fishing pier

The River Range is the largest and most frequently

Zone 7), as well as two turkey zones.

available. • Arkansas River. The Lock & Dam, located

used range for events and competitions. The Alma Range is smaller and is primarily used for shorter

Fishing

between Van Buren in Fort Smith along Highway

shooting distances and shotgun related shooting

• Lake Fort Smith. Located eight miles north of

64, offers one of the best spots in the state for

sports.

Mountainburg on U.S. 71, or take Exit 29 off I-540

stripped bass as well as crappie.

Visit www.oldfortgunclub.com for more information

at Mountainburg. The black bass (16 inches or

• Vine Prairie Park in Mulberry. The Little

and directions.

longer) has mercury contamination and shouldn’t

Mulberry River and Vine Prairie Creek come

be consumed by women who may be pregnant,

together at the boat launch to provide access to

OUTDOORS

want to get pregnant, or breast feeding, children

the Arkansas River.

Hunting

under seven, and no more than twice a week by

Vine Prairie Park also offers campgrounds. The

others.

park has a large pavilion available for group

Arkansas offers a variety of hunting seasons

functions, 13 campground spots with hook-ups

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and 10 primitive camping areas for tents as well as restroom facilities. Campground rentals are $20 a day with reduced rates for senior citizens. Primitive camping areas rent for $10 a day. Day use is $5 a day per vehicle. Be sure to check with www.afgc.com for license information in addition to other regulations and requirements.

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32 | 2017 - SPOTLIGHT ON CRAWFORD COUNTY

Lake Fort Smith State Park. Nestled in a scenic valley of the Boston Mountain Range of the

RECREATION

Ozark Mountains, this state park is on the western side of 1,400-acre Lake Fort Smith. Here you can enjoy outdoor adventures including camping, fishing, kayaking, swimming, mountain biking, hiking, and nature study. For backpackers, the park serves as the western terminus of the 165mile Ozark Highlands National Recreation Trail. The park features campsites [20 Class AAA and 10 Class B], group facilities including a dining hall and two group lodges with kitchenettes that can accommodate up to 32 persons (16 in each wing) each, 10 cabins, picnic sites, a pavilion, 2,660-square-foot swimming pool with adjacent wading pool and a splash pad, marina with boat rentals, double lane boat launch ramp, hiking trails, and a playground. The park’s 8,000-squarefoot visitor center includes exhibits, a meeting/ classroom, and an outdoor patio featuring a native stone, wood-burning fireplace and a lake view. The exhibit gallery tells the stories of how, through time, good water made this valley a place of hope, faith and sacrifice. The gallery includes a log cabin, covered wagon, re-created Shepherd Spring, and a diorama of the lake. Many exhibits

Not even winter can dull the natural sites in Crawford County.

are hands-on, and some contain live education

and go east on Ark. 282 for 1.8 mile to U.S. 71, then

With the following exception:

animals. Families with children will enjoy spending

travel north on U.S. 71 for 7.5 miles to Shepherd

May 27 - Sept. 3 - Fri. & Sat. 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.

time here discovering the natural and cultural

Springs Road, then turn east on Shepherd Springs

history of the area. A theater features a 16-minute

Road and go two miles to the park. [Alternate:

video that further tells the park’s story and will

Take I-49 Exit #34 at Chester and go east on Ark.

May 28 - Aug. 20 Sun. – Sat. noon - 6 p.m.

connect you to the water resources of this valley.

282 to U.S. 71 North.]

Aug. 21 - Sept. 5 Sat., Sun. & Labor Day noon - 6 p.m.

Interpretive programs are offered in the park throughout the year by the park staff. These activities include cruises and kayak tours on the

Pool:

Note: Schedule may vary based on school

Visitor Center: Jan. - Dec. Sun. - Sat. 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

openings and closings. Pool available for private parties.

lake, hikes, outdoor workshops, and more. For park details or to book campsite, cabin or group overnight reservations online, visit ArkansasStateParks.com/ LakeFortSmith. Campsite reservations can also be made by calling the park at: 479-369-2469. Lake Fort Smith State Park cabin and group facilities’ reservations can be made by calling toll-free: 888695-3526. The park is eight miles north of Mountainburg on U.S. 71, or take Exit 29 off I-540 at Mountainburg. The park is eight miles north of Mountainburg on U.S. 71, or take Exit #29 off I-49 at Mountainburg

SPOTLIGHT ON CRAWFORD COUNTY - 2017 | 33

RECREATION

Marina: Apr. 1 - May 21 Wed. – Sun. 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. May 22 - Sept. 10 Sun. – Sat. 7 a.m. - 8 p.m. Sept. 11 - Oct. 31 Wed. – Sun. 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Backpacking Ozark Highlands Trail - Western Terminus (C-2) (National Recreation Trail) Park/Rec Area: Lake Fort Smith State Park Region: Ozarks Length: 3 - 165 Difficulty: Easy - Moderate - Strenuous Brochure: Free downloadable topo map available Location: Eight miles north of Mountainburg on U.S. 71. Trail begins at the visitor center Description: The western terminus of the Ozark

Highlands Trail Assocaition managing the rest of

Highlands Trail begins behind the visitor center at

the trail system. Water falls, ridges, and valleys are

Lake Fort Smith State Park. The park manages

all experienced as one hikes the trail. This trail can

the first 3 miles in the park with the Ozark

be completed all at once taking or by breaking

A crevasse cuts through the bluff line along the Crack in the Rock Loop trail.

it up into sections. The eastern terminus is located

Turn left onto Gelly Drive (church on the corner),

along the Buffalo National River at the location

destination will be on the right (.8 mi.). The trail

known as Woolum, 165 miles from Lake Fort Smith

heads are on the NW corner of the parking lot.

State Park. For Information: Park Superintendent, Mountainburg, Ark., 72946, (479) 369-2469

Devil’s Den State Park Butterfield Hiking Trail The trail is a 15 mile looped backpacking trail. It

Hiking Lee Creek Public Use Area Crack In the Rock Loop trail The trail is a 1.5 mile walk along parts of a creek,

starts at Devil’s Den State Park. Trail maps are available at the park. A free permit is required. Open year-round. Features cave, forest, lake, river, waterfall, wildlife, wildflowers.

through the woods to a bluff line with a nice crevasse and moss-covered rock formations.

Directions: Eight miles south of Fayetteville on

The elevation gain is about 223 feet and it is open

I-49 (Exit 53), then 18 miles southwest on Hwy.

year-round and has a waterfall.

170, or 7 miles west of I-49 (Exit 45) at Winslow on Hwy. 74.

Cemetery Loop trail Takes you a bluff overlooking the lake, through an abandoned cemetery, past the remains of an

Kayaking Cedar Creek and West Cedar Creek

old homestead. The trail is about .75 miles long.

A 9.3 mile trail located near Cedarville. The trail is

Open year-round.

primarily used for whitewater kayaking.

Directions: Head north on Arkansas 59 N/

Directions: Head north on Arkansas 59 N/

Fayetteville Road (past Northridge Drive). Turn

Fayetteville Road (about 10 miles from downtown

left onto Old Uniontown Road (1.1 miles). Stay

Van Buren). Turn right onto State Highway 162/

to the right to remain on Old Uniontown Road

HWY 162 (2.2 mi.) Sharp left onto Creekway Bend

(.5 mi.). Turn left onto Pine Hollow Road (2 mi.).

(.3 mi.) Destination will be on the right.

34 | 2017 - SPOTLIGHT ON CRAWFORD COUNTY

RECREATION

Clear Creek Schaberg to Mountainburg is a 9.5 mile trail located near Mountainburg. The trail is primarily used for whitewater kayaking. Directions: Head out on US-64 E/US-71 Bus N/E Main Street and take the I-540 N ramp to I-40/ Little Rock/Oklahoma City. Merge onto I-540. Take exit 1B for I-40 East toward Little Rock. Merge onto 1-40 E (4.3 mi.) Take Exit 12 toward Fayetteville/I-49 (.8 mi.) Continue onto I-49 North (13.8 mi.) Take exit 34 for State Route 282 toward Chester (.3 mi.) Turn left onto AR-282 E/US-71 Bypass (.7 mi.) Turn left onto US-71 N (5.5 mi.) Turn left onto Schaberg Rd (1.9 mi.) Slight right to stay on Schaberg Rd (374 ft.) Destination will be on the left.

Driving Boston Mountains Scenic Loop Byway An 80-mile loop beginning at Alma, traveling

City parks like the Mulberry City Park offer outdoor space for energetic youngers to run and climb. north on Hwy 71 to Fayetteville, and returning to

Rock Climbing

Alma I-49. Scenic views, hiking trails, camping at

Mount Magazine (located near Paris, Ark.,

state parks, are along the drive.

along Highway 309, south of Crawford County) Arkansas’s 2,753-foot high point is the most

SPOTLIGHT ON CRAWFORD COUNTY - 2017 | 35

RECREATION

dramatic location for technical rock climbing in Arkansas. This flat-topped mountain, with its rugged bluffs, deep canyons and natural diversity, is the highest peak in Arkansas. Traditional Arkansas bouldering and sport climbing as well as rappelling is allowed in a designated area on the mountain’s south bluff overlooking the Petit Jean River Valley. This 1,500-foot wide stretch of sandstone boasts more than 100 routes up to 80 feet high, ranging from 5.5 to 5.12c in difficulty, with plenty in the 5.10 and under range as well as plenty of Arkansas bouldering areas. Before rock climbing in Arkansas at Mount Magazine, you are required to register at the state park visitor center. Phone: (479) 963-8502 or 1-877665-6343.

Nature Center The Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center sits on 170 acres of land in Fort Smith that were previously part of Fort Chaffee. The building overlooks Wells Lake. The trails around the lake feature exhibit signs highlighting the lake, grounds and animals using the area. Built in the fertile Arkansas River Valley, the center focuses on the wide variety of animals and birds that call the area home. In addition to resident Canada geese and small mammals and turtles calling the center home, many colorful songbirds stop by on their journeys to and from wintering grounds farther south. While many visitors come to the center for the interesting exhibits inside, just as many find the trails, native plants on the grounds and canoeing or fishing in the lake just as enjoyable. In addition to the interactive displays and a 1,200-gallon aquarium, the center houses a classroom for educational programs such as the Hunter’s Safety and Boating Safety courses and a multi-purpose room for community events. The Center is open Tuesdays-Saturdays, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. and Sundays 1-5 p.m. The nature center is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. www.rivervalleynaturecenter.com.

36 | 2017 - SPOTLIGHT ON CRAWFORD COUNTY

A golfer prepares to putt during one of the many golf tournaments held in Crawford County.

CHURCHES

Access Road Church of Christ, 711 Access Road

Alma Heights Missionary Baptist Church,

Apostolic Faith Church, 108 South 8th Street,

in Van Buren, has Sunday Bible study at 9:30

638 Rudy Road, has Sunday school at 10 a.m.,

Van Buren. Call 410-2347.

a.m. and worship at 10:20 a.m. and 5 p.m. and

worship at 11 a.m., BTC at 6 p.m. and Wednesday

Wednesday worship at 7 p.m. Call 471-1915.

service at 7 p.m. Call 632-4897 or 632-3929. Bethlehem Freewill Baptist Church, 3130 Pointer Trail East, Van Buren. Call 474-3630.

Alma Church of Christ, 45 Railroad St. in

Alma Northside Church of Christ, 4935

Alma, has Sunday study at 9 a.m., worship at

U.S. 71 North, has Sunday Bible classes at 9:30

10 a.m. and 6 p.m., and Wednesday service at

a.m., worship at 10:10 a.m. and 6 p.m. and

Beyond Church, 4510 U.S. 71 North in Alma,

7 p.m.

Wednesday Bible classes at 7 p.m. Call 632-9730

has Sunday service at 10:30 a.m. and Wednesday

or 474-0165.

service at 7 p.m. Call 632-2340.

east of Alma on U.S. 64, has Sunday School at

Alma United Methodist Church, 416 Short St.,

Butterfield Assembly of God, 1302 N. 30th

10 a.m. and worship at 10:45 a.m. Call (479) 632-

has Sunday school at 10 a.m. and Sunday service

Street in Van Buren, has Sunday school at 9 a.m.,

2276.

at 11 a.m. Choir practice is Wednesday at 7 p.m.

Sunday morning worship at 10, Sunday evening

Alma First Freewill Baptist Church, two miles

worship at 6 and Wednesday worship at 7 p.m. Call 474-4410. Alma Full Gospel Outreach, 31 Orrick Road,

Amazing Grace Fellowship, 2020 Rena Road

has worship at 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Sunday and 7

in Van Buren, has Sunday school at 9 a.m., worship

p.m. on Wednesday. Monthly singing is the fourth

at 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. and Wednesday at 7 p.m.

Calvary Missionary Baptist Church, 2117 Alma

Sunday at 6 p.m.

Call 410-4900.

Blvd., Van Buren, has Sunday school at 9:45 a.m.,

SPOTLIGHT ON CRAWFORD COUNTY - 2017 | 37

CHURCHES

worship at 10:40 a.m. and 6 p.m. and Wednesday

Church of Christ, U.S. 64 West, Mulberry. Call

Arkansas 59 in Cedarville, has Sunday services

classes at 7 p.m. and worship at 7:30 p.m. Call 474-

997-8121.

at 10 a.m., family night Tuesdays with dinner at

0642 or 474-2630.

6 and prayer service Wednesdays at 7 p.m. Call (479) 719-1129. Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints,

Catcher Freewill Baptist Church, 2434

125 Canterbury Drive, Alma. Call 632-4643.

Catcher Road in Van Buren, has Sunday school

Cornerstone Full Gospel Church, 430 A North

at 9:45 a.m., and worship Sunday at 10:45 a.m.

Main St. in Mulberry, has services Friday at 7 p.m.

and 6 p.m. and Wednesday at 6 p.m. Singing is

Church of the Nazarene, 1411 Maple Shade

and Saturday Bible study at 10 a.m. and worship

the third Sunday night of the month.

Road, Alma. Call 632-2649.

at 11 a.m. Call (479) 213-3383.

Cedarville First Assembly of God Church

City Heights Methodist Church, 1002

Cross Church, 1506 Oak Grove Road in Van

on Arkansas 59 has Sunday school at 9:45 a.m.,

Fayetteville Road, Van Buren. Call 474-1547.

Buren, has Sunday services at 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.

worship at 10:45 a.m. and 6 p.m., and worship

and Thursday service and Bible study at 7 p.m.

and children’s groups at 7 p.m. Wednesday. Call

Call (479) 883-4224.

474-0526.

Community Bible Church, 1514 Construction Way in Van Buren, holds Sunday services at

Center Point Freewill Baptist Church, 11103

9:15 and 10:45 a.m. Call 452-9201 or visit www.

CrossPointe Community Church, 3304 Kibler

communitychurch.com.

Road, Van Buren, has Sunday School at 9:40 and

Beneux Bottom Road north of Mulberry, has

worship at 10:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. Call 474-3588.

Sunday services at 10 and 10:45 a.m. and 6 p.m. and Wednesday at 7 p.m. Call 632-4529.

Community Praise Church, 1620 Mulberry, Van Buren. Call 474-3050.

Dean Springs Missionary Baptist Church, 2107 Dean Springs Road in Alma, has Sunday

Chester Freewill Baptist, 308 Chester, Mountainburg. Call 369-4756.

school at 10 a.m., services at 5 (BTC) and 6 p.m. Concord Baptist Church, 6105 Alma Highway

and Wednesday prayer and study at 7:30 p.m.

in Van Buren, has Sunday school at 9 a.m., worship

Call 632-4338.

and children’s church at 10 a.m., worship at 6 p.m., Christian Life Ministries, 4606 W. Highway

and Wednesday night Bible study at 7 p.m. Call

220 in Uniontown, has Sunday school at 10 a.m.;

632-4678 or 474-9336.

worship at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m.; and Wednesday

Deliverance in Christ Tabernacle, 5911 Alma Highway, has Sunday school at 10 a.m., worship at

worship at 7 p.m. Call 414-9248.

10:45 a.m. and 6 p.m. and Wednesday at 7 p.m. Cornerstone Community Church, 8335

Call 471-9674 or 474-0303.

Dora Assembly of God has Sunday school at 10 a.m., worship at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Sunday and at 7 p.m. Wednesday. Call 410-3520.

Dora Pentecostal Church of God, 4926 Dora Road, has Sunday school at 9:45 a.m., Sunday worship at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. and Wednesday worship at 6 p.m. Call (479) 236-6904.

Dyer Church of Christ, 425 N. Washington St.,

38 | 2017 - SPOTLIGHT ON CRAWFORD COUNTY

CHURCHES

meets Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and

Main St., has small group Bible study Sundays at

First Freewill Baptist Church, 227 U.S. 64

Wednesday at 7 p.m. Call 471-9233.

8:45 a.m., with worship at 10 a.m. and 6 p.m., and

in Mulberry, has Sunday school at 10 a.m. and

Wednesday Bible study at 10 a.m. in the fellowship

worship at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m., Wednesday night

hall and 6 p.m. Bible study. Call 474-1271.

supper at 6:15 p.m. and Wednesday Bible study at

Dyer First Baptist Church, 605 N. Washington

7 p.m. Call 883-3811.

St., has Sunday school at 10 a.m. and worship at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m., and 7 p.m. Wednesdays. Call

First Church of God, 1819 Rena Road in Van

997-1031.

Buren, has Sunday school at 9:45 a.m., Sunday

First Presbyterian Church, 24 Oak Street,

worship and children’s church at 10:40 a.m.,

Alma. Call 632-2105.

Sunday evening worship at 6 p.m. and Wednesday Fairview Regular Baptist Church, U.S. 64 east

worship at 6:30 p.m. Call (479) 226-6244.

of Mulberry, has Sunday school at 10 a.m., and

First Presbyterian Church, 108 S. 10th St. in

worship Sundays at 10:45 a.m. and 6 p.m. and Wednesdays at 7 p.m.

Van Buren, has Sunday school at 9:30 a.m. and First Church of the Nazarene, 2520 Alma

worship at 10:30 a.m.

Highway in Van Buren, holds Sunday school at 9 a.m., Sunday worship at 10 a.m. and Wednesday Family Worship Center, 17th and Baldwin in

service at 6:30 p.m. Call (479) 474-1186.

Freedom Freewill Baptist Church, 1710 Old

Van Buren, has service Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and

Freedom Drive northeast of Alma, has Sunday

Wednesday at 7 p.m.

school at 10 a.m., worship at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m., First Freewill Baptist Church, Alma. Call 632-

C.T.S. at 5 p.m. Sundays, and Wednesday Bible

2276.

study and children’s class at 7 p.m.

Fern Assembly of God, 18200 U.S. 215 North, Mountainburg. Call 369-4143.

First Assembly of God, 1014 Fayetteville Road in Van Buren, has Sunday school at 9 a.m., Sunday worship at 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. and Wednesday worship at 7 p.m. Call 474-7573.

First Baptist Church of Alma, 211 North Mountain Grove Road, has Sunday services at 8:30 and 10:50 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. and Wednesday service at 6:30 p.m. Call 632-2020.

First Baptist Church of Cedarville has Sunday services at 10:30 a.m. and 6 p.m.

First Baptist Church of Mulberry, 453 Church St., has small group classes at 9:30 a.m. with worship at 10:45 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. Sundays and 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays. Call 997-1151.

First Baptist Church of Van Buren, 1121 E.

SPOTLIGHT ON CRAWFORD COUNTY - 2017 | 39

CHURCHES

Friendly Pentecostal Church of God, 18th and

Graphic New Hope Baptist Church, one mile

Heritage Church, 1604 Pointer Trail in Van

Cherry streets in Van Buren, has services at 9:45

north of the Graphic Store, has Sunday school at

Buren, holds a contemporary service at 8:05 a.m.,

a.m. and 5 p.m. Sunday and 7 p.m. Wednesday.

10 a.m., and worship at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m.

traditional worship at 9:30 a.m., and contemporary worship at 11 a.m. Sunday school is at 9:30 and 11 a.m. Nursery is available. Call 474-6424.

God’s Anchor, 200 S. 4th St. in Van Buren, has

Graphic Southern Baptist Church has

Sunday school at 10 a.m. and worship at 11 a.m.

Sunday school at 10 a.m., worship at 11 a.m. and

and 6 p.m. and Wednesday at 7 p.m. Call 806-

5 p.m., Wednesday Bible Study at 6 p.m., and

Highway 71 Church of Christ has service

7744.

Monday women’s Bible study at 6 p.m. Call 369-

Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. and Wednesday

2683.

at 7 p.m. Call 970-4336 or 739-6543.

Lane in Alma, has services at 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.

Greater Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church, 35 S.

Highway 71 Freewill Baptist Church, U.S. 71

Sunday and 7 p.m. Thursday. Call 632-4006.

22nd St., Van Buren. Call 474-6598.

north of Alma, has Sunday school at 10 a.m. and

God’s Harvest Pentecostal Church, 325 Ray

worship at 10:45 a.m. and 6 p.m. Second Sunday singing, fellowship and dinner is at 6 p.m. Call God’s House of Promises, 243 West Cherry St. in

Gregory Chapel Church of Christ, 727

Alma, holds Sunday school at 2 p.m. and Sunday

Gregory Chapel Road in Mountainburg, has

worship at 3 p.m. Worship and singing is held

Sunday Bible study at 10 a.m. and worship

Saturday at 6 p.m. Call (479) 221-6717.

at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Bible study is at 7 p.m.

Highway to Heaven Church, 109 W. Highway

Wednesday.

64 in Alma, has Sunday school at 10 a.m., worship

(479) 996-7802.

at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. and Wednesday worship and God’s Miracle Lighthouse, 1518 Georgia Ridge

youth service at 7 p.m.

Road in Mulberry, has Sunday School at 10:30

Hamtown Miracle Church, located between

a.m., worship at 11:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. and mid-

Mulberry and Dyer, has services at 10 a.m. and

week service at 7 p.m. Call 806-4502 or 997-5714.

6:30 p.m. Sunday and 7 p.m. Thursday. Supper

Holiness Block Church, 21 N. 7th St. in Van

and singing is 6 p.m. the fourth Saturday.

Buren, has Sunday services at 10 and 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. and Thursday service at 7 p.m. Call 474-0866.

Gospel Rescue Mission service begins at 11 a.m. Sunday with dinner at noon.

Harmony Baptist Church, Alma. Call 632-2211. Independence Freewill Baptist Church in Natural Dam has Sunday school at 10 a.m.,

Grandview Assembly of God, 14542 U.S. 59

Hearts of Hope Church, 118 Market Place,

worship at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m., Stand in the Gap

North, Natural Dam. Call 929-5659.

Alma. Call 632-8253.

at 5:30 p.m. and Wednesday worship at 7 p.m.

Jehovah’s Witnesses, 5236 East Highway 64, Alma. Call 997-2113.

Jubilee Christian Center, 1901 Liberty Lane, Van Buren. Call 474-8088.

Kenner Chapel Freewill Baptist Church, Hobbtown Road at Kenner Chapel Road, has Sunday school at 10 a.m., worship at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. and Wednesday at 7 p.m. Call 474-5503.

40 | 2017 - SPOTLIGHT ON CRAWFORD COUNTY

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SPOTLIGHT ON CRAWFORD COUNTY - 2017 | 41

CHURCHES Kibler Assembly of God Church, 127 West

Lee Creek Baptist Church, 2445 Old Uniontown

Living Word River Valley, 4510 U.S. 71 North,

Kibler Highway, has Sunday school at 9:45 a.m.,

Road, Van Buren. Call 474-7974.

Alma. Call 632-2340.

Liberty Fellowship, 5530 Alma Highway in Van

Locke Freewill Baptist Church in

worship at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. and Wednesday service at 7 p.m. Buren, has Sunday services at 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.,

Mountainburg has Sunday school at 10 a.m.,

Kibler Baptist Church, 141 Highway 162 in

and Wednesday youth and worship at 7 p.m. Call

worship at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. and ladies prayer

Alma, has Sunday life groups at 9:30 a.m., Sunday

471-3053.

meeting at 4 p.m. Thursday. Call 632-3502.

Lighthouse Baptist Church, 2811 Fayetteville

Maple Shade Church of the Nazarene, 1411

Road, Van Buren. Call 474-7770.

Maple Shade Road in Alma, has Sunday school

worship and kids service at 10:30 a.m., bible study at 6 p.m. Sunday, and Wednesday bible study and kids services at 7 p.m.

at 9:45 a.m. and worship at 10:45 a.m. and 6 p.m. Kibler Freewill Baptist Church, 705 Red Bud

Call 632-2649.

Lane, has Sunday school and worship, beginning

Living Water Fellowship in Dyer has Sunday

at 10 a.m. Call 369-4555 or 632-3512.

school at 10 a.m., worship at 11 a.m., Wednesday Bible study at 7 p.m. and singing 6 p.m. the first

Mountain View United Methodist Church,

Sunday.

9007 Arkansas 282 North in Alma, has worship

Kibler United Methodist Church, 19 E. Kibler

at 9:30 a.m. and Sunday school at 10:30 a.m. Call

Highway, has Sunday worship service at 9:30

(479) 462-1320.

a.m. and Sunday school at 10:30 a.m. Call 632-

Living Word Church, 1445 Clyde Cate Road,

4433.

Van Buren. Call 474-4800. Mountainburg Presbyterian Church, 1401 Highway 71, has church school at 9:15 a.m. and worship at 10:30 a.m.

Mt. Olive United Methodist Church, 500 Jefferson St. in Van Buren, holds Sunday worship service at 9:45 a.m. and youth and adult Bible study Wednesday at 7 p.m. Children’s church and a nursery are available. Call 471-8955.

Mulberry Assembly of God Church, 332 Heard Ave. Call 997-1065.

Mulberry Church of Christ, U.S. 64 West, has Bible class 10 a.m. and worship at 11 a.m. Sunday and Wednesday Bible study at 7 p.m.

Mulberry First United Methodist Church, 317 Church St., has Sunday school at 10 a.m., worship at 11 a.m. and Holy Communion at 11 a.m., the first Sunday of each month. Call 9971191.

42 | 2017 - SPOTLIGHT ON CRAWFORD COUNTY

CHURCHES

Mulberry Full Gospel Church has Sunday

New Bethel Assembly of God on Main Street

New Life United Pentecostal Church of Alma,

school at 9:45 a.m., Sunday worship at 11 a.m. and

in Dyer holds Sunday school at 9:45 a.m., worship

Lighthouse Drive and U.S. 64 East, has Sunday

6:30 p.m. and Thursday evening worship at 7 p.m.

at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. and Wednesday Bible study

school and worship at 2 p.m. and Wednesday

at 7 p.m. Call 997-1873.

Bible study at 7:30 p.m. Call 632-2007.

Street, has Sunday school at 9:45 a.m., worship

New Heights Baptist Church, 1003 Rudy Road,

New Vision Worship Center, a non-

at 10:45 a.m. and 6 p.m. and Wednesday worship

Alma. Call 632-8585.

denominational church, 3rd Street and Sycamore in

Mulberry Open Door Church, 460 N. Main

at 7 p.m.

Van Buren, has Sunday morning fellowship at 9:30 a.m., Sunday school at 10 a.m., Sunday worship at 11 New Hope United Methodist Church, 1339

Mulberry Pentecostal Church of God, East 5th

Oak Grove Road in Van Buren, has Sunday

Avenue and Heard Street, holds Sunday school at

worship at 9 a.m. and Sunday School at 10:15 a.m.

9:30 a.m., worship at 10:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. and

Call 462-1320.

a.m. and 6 p.m., and Wednesday worship at 7 p.m.

Newberry Chapel United Methodist Church,

Wednesday at 7 p.m.

3406 Old Rudy Road in Alma, has Sunday school at 10 a.m. and worship at 11 a.m. Call 462-1320. New Life Pentecostal Church of God, 3624

New Beginnings Pentecostal Church of

E. Pointer Trail in Van Buren, has Sunday school

God, 9622 Highway 71 North in Mountainburg,

at 9:30 a.m., worship at 10:30 a.m. and 5 p.m.

North Park Baptist Church, 1516 N. 11th St.,

has Sunday school at 9:45 a.m., service at 11 a.m.

and Wednesday 7 p.m. Call 471-0072 or 221-

holds worship at 9 and 10:45 a.m. Sundays and

and 6 p.m. and Wednesday service and youth at

4735.

youth and children’s services Wednesday at 6 p.m.

7 p.m. Call 806-2975.

Call 474-9594.

SPOTLIGHT ON CRAWFORD COUNTY - 2017 | 43

CHURCHES

Oak Bower Christian Center, 14822 Oakbower

Pigeon Creek Freewill Baptist Church, 1421

Rudy Community Church on Arkansas 282

Road, Mulberry. Call 997-8311.

Pigeon Creek Road, Mountainburg. Call 369-4042.

has Sunday service at 10:30 a.m. and Wednesday Bible study at 6:30 p.m. Call 651-5799.

Oak Grove Baptist Church, 4929 Industrial

Pleasant Valley Church of Christ, 6020 Kibler

Park Road, has Sunday school at 9:30 a.m., and

Road, has Bible classes at 9:30 a.m. and worship

Shady Grove Baptist Church, Arkansas 59

worship at 10:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. and Wednesday

services at 10:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. Call 474-5866.

and 348, holds Sunday Bible study at 9:45 a.m.;

at 7 p.m. Discipleship training is at 5 p.m. Sundays.

worship at 10:45 a.m.; and Wednesday Bible study

Call 474-6674.

and prayer at 7 p.m. Rena Christian Church, 1402 Rena Road in Van Buren, has Sunday school at 9:45 a.m. and worship

Oliver Springs Freewill Baptist Church,

Sunday at 10:45 a.m. and 6 p.m. and Wednesday

Shamrock Community Church, 15400 Arkansas

3144 Highway 348 in Rudy, holds Sunday school

at 7 p.m. Call 462-8553.

220 East, has Sunday school at 10 a.m., and worship

at 10 a.m., worship at 10:45 a.m. and 6 p.m. and

at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Call (479) 929-5767.

Wednesday at 7 p.m. Rena Road Baptist Church, 512 Rena Road in Van Buren, has Sunday school at 10 a.m., worship

Shibley Baptist Church, 1136 Shibley Road in

Our Savior Lutheran Church, 9625 N. U.S. 71

at 11 a.m. and Tuesday prayer, fellowship and

Van Buren, has services Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and

in Mountainburg, has Bible study at 9:30 a.m.

meal at 6 p.m. Call 471-0806.

6 p.m. and Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. Call 474-3904.

Rena Road Church of Christ, 100 Rena Road in

Solid Rock Tabernacle, 1325 Rudy Road in Alma,

and worship at 10:30 a.m. with a fellowship lunch following the service. Call 369-9920. Van Buren, has Sunday Bible classes at 9:30 a.m.

holds Sunday school at 9 a.m., worship at 10 a.m.

Ozark View Chapel in the Turner Community

and worship at 10:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. Wednesday

and 6 p.m. and Wednesday at 7 p.m. Call 632-5310.

has Sunday school at 10 a.m. and worship at 10:45

classes are at 7 p.m. Spanish classes are Sunday at 11

a.m. Bible study is at 7 p.m. Tuesdays in the Easley

a.m. and worship at noon and 6 p.m. Call 474-6527.

Fellowship Hall.

Southside Baptist Church, 620 Red Hill Road in Alma, holds Sunday school at 9:30 a.m. and Revis Hill Assembly of God, 11515 Revis Hill

Parkview Alliance Church, 904 Pine St. in

worship at 10:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. Call 632-3680.

Heights, Mountainburg. Call 369-2216.

Van Buren, holds Sunday school at 9:30 a.m. and worship at 10:45 a.m. Sundays and 7 p.m.

Sovereign Grace Missionary Baptist Church,

Wednesdays. Call 474-9380. Hispanic service is

Rudy Baptist Church, 224 E. Bell St., has

1001 Maple Valley Road in Alma, has Sunday

held at 12:30 p.m. Sundays. Call 471-3094.

Sunday school at 10 a.m., and worship services at

school at 10 a.m., worship at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.

11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Call 632-6272.

and 7 p.m. Wednesday. Call 632-5470.

St. Michael’s Catholic Church, 1025 Pointer Trail, Van Buren. Call 474-1211.

Sunnyside Assembly of God, 939 Sunnyside Road, Van Buren. Call 474-5700. The Current Church, 414 S. 4th St. in Van Buren, holds services Sunday at 10 a.m., Wednesday at 7 p.m. and Friday at 7 p.m. There is also a service for kids. Call 474-4410.

44 | 2017 - SPOTLIGHT ON CRAWFORD COUNTY

CHURCHES

The Early Church, a non-denominational house

p.m. on Wednesdays. Call 474-3682.

Vista Freewill Baptist Church, 2301

church, holds Sunday service at 10:30 a.m. at 2514

Fayetteville Road in Van Buren, has Sunday

Harmony Road in Alma. Call (479) 997-8579.

school at 9:45 a.m., worship at 10:45 a.m. and

The Master’s House, 3539 W. 220 in Van Buren,

Van Buren Freewill Baptist Church, 4874 Alma

6 p.m. Sundays and 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays

Highway, has Sunday school at 10 a.m., worship at

for prayer meeting and Bible study. Call 474-

10:45 a.m. and 6 p.m., and Wednesday at 7 p.m.

0761.

Victorious Life Ministries, U.S. 71, has Sunday

Wood Memorial Christian Church, 10th

worship at 10:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. and Wednesday

Street and Broadway, Van Buren. Call 474-

Bible classes at 7 p.m. Call 632-3750.

2284.

Vine Prairie Baptist Church, 2128 U.S. 64 West,

Zion Baptist Church, 1115 Spring, Alma. Call

Mulberry. Call 997-8419.

632-3031.

has Sunday school at 10 a.m., worship at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. and Wednesday at 7 p.m.

The River Fellowship, 3221 Old Rudy Road, Alma. Call 632-4523.

Trinity Baptist Church, 5020 North Highway 71, Alma. Call 632-4918.

Visionary Christian Church, 21 N. Oak St.

Zion Missionary Baptist Church, 4131 Zion

Trinity Episcopal Church, 918 N. 9th St. in Van

in Alma, holds Sunday school at 9:45 a.m. and

Road in Van Buren, holds Sunday school at 10

Buren, has worship Sundays at 8 and 10:30 a.m.

worship at 11 a.m. and Wednesday Bible study

a.m., and worship at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. and

Call 474-3144.

at 7 p.m. Call 632-3757.

Wednesday at 7 p.m. Call 474-2715.

Uniontown Assembly of God Church, 1008 Old Church Lane, has Sunday school at 9:30 a.m., worship at 10:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. Wednesday. Call 474-1966.

Uniontown Baptist Church has Sunday school at 9:45 a.m. and worship at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. and Wednesday prayer meeting at 7 p.m.

United Methodist Church, Alma. Call 632-3211.

United Methodist Church, 317 Church Ave., Mulberry. Call 997-1191.

United Pentecostal Church of Van Buren, 804 Pointer Trail. Call 410-2323.

Unity Baptist Church, 304 Arkansas Street in Van Buren, has Sunday school at 9:45 a.m. and worship at 10:45 a.m. and 6 p.m. Sundays and 7

SPOTLIGHT ON CRAWFORD COUNTY - 2017 | 45

SCHOLASTIC ATHLETICS

ALMA HIGH SCHOOL Mascots: Airedales, Lady Airedales

Volleyball, Track, Tennis (fall), Golf (fall), Bowling and Cross Country.

CEDARVILLE HIGH SCHOOL Mascots: Pirates, Lady Pirates

Conference: 5A West Colors: Kelly Green and Old Gold

ALMA MIDDLE SCHOOL

Conference: 3A-4 (Football) 3A-1 West

Athletic Director: Dr. Mike McSpadden, (479)

Mascots: Airedale Pups, Lady Airedale Pups

(Basketball)

632-4791

Conference: River Valley

Colors: Royal Blue and Gold

School Phone: (479) 632-2162

School Phone: (479) 632-6128

Athletic Director: Darren Busch (479) 474-7022

Sports: Football, Basketball, Baseball, Fastpitch

Sports: Football, Basketball, Volleyball, Track,

School Phone: (479) 474-7022

Softball (spring), Soccer (new for 2017 season)

Cross Country.

Sports: Football, Basketball, Baseball, Fastpitch Softball (spring), Volleyball, Track, Tennis (fall), Golf (fall), Bowling and Cross Country. Junior High Sports: Football, Basketball, Volleyball, Track, Cross Country.

MOUNTAINBURG HIGH SCHOOL Mascots: Dragons, Lady Dragons Conference: 2A-4 (Football) 2A-4 West (Basketball) Colors: Royal Blue and White Athletic Director: Tom Harrell, (479) 369-2146 School Phone: (479) 369-2042 Sports: Football, Basketball, Baseball, Fastpitch Softball (spring), Volleyball, Track, Tennis (fall), Golf (fall), Bowling and Cross Country. Junior High Sports: Football, Basketball, Track, Cross Country.

The Van Buren Pointers take the field prior to the start of another 7A West contest.

MULBERRY HIGH SCHOOL (Mulberry-Pleasant View School District) Mascots: Yellow Jackets, Lady Yellow Jackets Conference: 1A West Colors: Black and Yellow Athletic Director: Dennis Fisher Gym Phone: (479) 997-1715 Sports: Football, Basketball, Baseball, Fastpitch Softball (spring), Volleyball, Track, Tennis (fall), Bowling and Cross Country. Junior High Sports (Pleasant View): Football, Basketball, Volleyball, Track, Cross Country.

46 | 2017 - SPOTLIGHT ON CRAWFORD COUNTY

SCHOLASTIC ATHLETICS

VAN BUREN HIGH SCHOOL Mascots: Pointers, Lady Pointers Conference: 7A West Colors: Kelly Green and White Athletic Director: Randy Loyd, (479) 474-7942 School Phone: (479) 474-6821. Sports: Football, Basketball, Baseball, Fastpitch Softball (spring), Soccer, Volleyball, Track, Tennis (fall), Golf (fall), Bowling, Cross Country and Wrestling.

VAN BUREN, NINTH GRADE ACADEMY Mascot: Pointers, Lady Pointers Conference: River Valley School Phone: (479) 471-3160 Sports: Football, Basketball, Volleyball, Track and Cross Country.

Mulberry’s All-State and All-Star player, Trevor Marvin.

Alma pitcher Brayden Johnson delivers a strike at the Alma Baseball Complex.

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SPOTLIGHT ON CRAWFORD COUNTY - 2017 | 47

EDUCATION

Crawford County currently has five school districts:

Lane, 474-5073, grades kindergarten through

Alma, Cedarville, Mountainburg, Mulberry and

fourth.

MULBERRY/ PLEASANT VIEW

Van Buren. The following is information regarding

Dr. Lonnie Myers, superintendent

• Cedarville Middle School, 9614 Pirates Point,

each district.

Administration offices

474-5847, grades fifth through eighth.

Mulberry, AR 72947

ALMA Dr. David Woolly, superintendent Administration offices

997-1701 • Cedarville High School, 9500 Pirates Point,

The school district consists of four campuses:

474-7021, grades ninth through 12th.

• Marvin Elementary School, 1319 N. Main St.,

U.S. 64 East, Alma, AR 72921 632-4791

997-1495, grades kindergarten through fourth. • Chapter One, 474-7812

The school district is comprised of four campuses: • Alma Primary School, 1600 U.S. 64 East, 632-

• Head Start Center, 474-2353

• Millsap Intermediate School, 5750 Hornet Lane, 997-8469, grades fifth and sixth.

5100, grades kindergarten to second.

MOUNTAINBURG

• Alma Intermediate School, 1220 West Collum

Dennis Copeland, superintendent

Lane, 632-2166, grades third through fifth.

• Pleasant View Junior High School, 5750 Hornet Lane, 997-8469, grades seventh through ninth.

Administration offices • Alma Middle School, 706 U.S. 64 East, 632-

129 U.S. 71, Mountainburg, AR 72946 369-2121

2168, grades sixth through eighth.

• Mulberry High School, 203 West Fifth St., 9971363, grades 10th through 12th.

The school district consists of three campuses: • Alma High School, 101 East Main St., 632-2162,

• Mountainburg Elementary School,

grades ninth through 12th.

2015 Lake Fort Smith Road, 369-2762, grades kindergarten through fourth.

• Alma Performing Arts Center, 632-2129

VAN BUREN Dr. Harold Jeffcoat, superintendent Administration offices

• Mountainburg Middle School, 129 U.S. 71,

2221 Pointer Trail, Van Buren, AR 72956

369-4506, grades fifth through eighth.

CEDARVILLE Dr. Kerry Schneider, superintendent Administration offices

474-7942 The Van Buren School District consists of six

• Mountainburg High School, 129 U.S. 71, 369-

elementary schools, grades kindergarten through

2146, grades ninth through twelfth.

fifth; two middle schools, grades sixth through

9500 Pirates Point, Cedarville, AR 72932 474-7220

eighth; a ninth-grade academy; and one senior high school, grades 10th through 12th:

The school district consists of three campuses:

• Head Start Center: 474-7427

• Cedarville Elementary School, 9335 Armer

• Career Center/Alternative Learning Environment, North 24th and Baldwin Streets, 471-3150 • River Valley Virtual Academy, 821 Pointer Trail East, 471-3160 • City Heights Elementary School, 301 Mt. Vista Blvd., 474-6918 • King Elementary School, 401 N. 19th St., 4742661

(SEE SCHOOLS, PAGE 49)

48 | 2017 - SPOTLIGHT ON CRAWFORD COUNTY

EDUCATION

Van Buren to begin Virtual Academy in fall The Van Buren School District is accepting

It will have a capacity of 325 kindergarten

applications until Sept. 8 for its charter school,

through 12th grade students under the

River Valley Virtual Academy, scheduled to open

direction of Jennifer Feeny, who will be the

in August.

charter school’s coordinator. Feeny currently

“This will give the students the opportunity

is assistant principal at Northridge Middle

to decide if this is what they really want,”

School.

Feeny said.

Applications are available online at the

Students selected for the virtual academy will undergo a two-week orientation.

district’s website or at the VBSD administration office at 2221 W. Pointer Trail. Superintendent Dr. Harold Jeffcoat said that

Feeny noted students living outside the

Feeny said the academy will help target

district’s boundaries had until May 1 to apply

demographics that VBSD feels could benefit

to participate in the School Choice Program.

most from a virtual-based curriculum,

although the virtual academy will feature a self-

including local homeschool families,

paced format, students and their families will

School Choice is the program authorized

homebound students, accelerated learners,

receive extensive district support from on-site

by the Arkansas General Assembly in Act

and at-risk students who may struggle in a

staff.

560 of 2015 which allows parents to apply

typical learning environment.

for their child’s admission to participating River Valley Virtual Academy will be located at the Van Buren High School Freshman Academy on the Coleman Campus.

school districts other than the one in which they reside.

VBSD Director of Curriculum Nancy Robbins said courses for 2017-18 have been approved by the state and include a large number of

SCHOOLS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 48

• Parkview Elementary School, 619 Parkview, 474-8730 • Rena Elementary School, 720 Rena Road, 4713190 • Tate Elementary School, Catcher Road, 4713130 • Central Elementary School, 913 N. 24th St., 474-7059 • Northridge Middle School, 120 Northridge Dr., 471-3126 • Butterfield Trail Middle School, 12th and Elm Streets, 474-6838 • Freshman Academy, 821 Pointer Trail East, 471-3160 • Van Buren High School, 2001 Pointer Trail East, 474-6821 • Van Buren Fine Arts Center, 2001 Pointer Trail East, 471-4017

SPOTLIGHT ON CRAWFORD COUNTY - 2017 | 49

COUNTY SERVICES Call 9-1-1 to report traffic accidents, fires, medical emergencies and criminal activity — dispatch communicates to fire, police and medical officials.

Agriculture Extension Office: (479) 474-5286 Assessor: (479) 474-1751 Circuit Clerk: (479) 471-1821 Child Support Registry: (479) 471-1821 Conservation District: (479) 474-2281

Gas: Arkansas-Oklahoma Gas Corp., (479) 784-2000 Library: (479) 632-4140 Mayor’s Office: (479) 632-4110 Police: (479) 632-3333 (non-emergency) Post Office: (479) 632-2093 Senior Inn: (479) 632-3535 Telephone Service: CenturyTel (800) 2014099

DYER City Offices: (479) 997-8557 Police: (479) 997-1577 (non-emergency) Post Office: (479) 997-8834 Water: (479) 997-8557 For additional numbers, see Crawford County Services

KIBLER

Water: (479) 632-2254

City Hall: (479) 632-3177

Coroner: (479) 471-3231 County Clerk: (479) 474-1312

CEDARVILLE

Police: (479) 632-3893 (City Marshal, nonemergency)

Election Commission: (479) 471-3222

Cable: Cox Communications (479) 782-8941

Emergency Management: (479) 471-3260

Water: (479) 632-3747

City Office: (479) 410-3400

County Health Department: (479) 474-6391

For additional numbers, see Crawford County

Electric: Arkansas Valley Electric (800) 468-

County Judge: (479) 474-1511

2176; OG&E Electric Services (800) 272-9741

Services

Library System: (479) 471-3226

Gas: Arkansas-Oklahoma Gas Corp. (479)

Prosecuting Attorney: (479) 474-5000

784-2000

Public Defender: (479) 471-3270

Fire: (479) 471-0522 (non-emergency)

Rural Fire: (479) 474-8000 Sheriff: (479) 474-2261 Tax Collector: (479) 474-1111 Treasurer: (479) 474-6641 Veteran’s Services: (479) 471-3200

Police: (479) 474-0540 (non-emergency) Post Office: (479) 474-3801 Library: (479) 410-1853 Senior Inn: (479) 474-5429 Telephone Service: AT&T (800) 201-4099 Water: (479) 474-3365

MOUNTAINBURG Cable: Cox Communications, (479) 782-8941 Electric: Arkansas Valley Electric (800) 4682176; OG&E Electric Services (800) 272-9741 Family Clinic: (479) 369-2091 Fire: (479) 369-2200 (non-emergencies) Library: (479) 369-1600 Municipal Office: (479) 369-2791 Police: (479) 369-2000

ALMA Aquatic Center: (479) 632-0700 Cable: Cox Communications, (479) 782-8941 Chamber of Commerce: (479) 632-4127

CHESTER

Senior Inn: (479) 369-2643

Post Office: (479) 369-4203

Telephone: CenturyTel (800) 201-4099

Water: (479) 369-2618

Water and Sewer: (479) 369-4281

Electric: Arkansas Valley Electric (800) 468-

DORA, FIGURE FIVE

2176; OG&E Electric Services (800) 272-9741 Fire: (479) 632-2009 (non-emergency)

See Crawford County Services

MULBERRY Cable: Cox Communications, (479) 782-8941 City Hall: (479) 997-1321 Electric: Arkansas Valley Electric (800) 4682176; OG&E Electric Services (800) 272-9741 Family Clinic: (479) 997-1484 Fire: (479) 997-1321 (non-emergencies) Gas: Arkansas-Oklahoma Gas Corp. (479) 784-2000 Library: (479) 997-1226 Police: (479) 997-8235 Post Office: (479) 997-1505 Senior Center: (479) 997-1901 Water: (479) 997-1321

50 | 2017 - SPOTLIGHT ON CRAWFORD COUNTY

COUNTY SERVICES

NATURAL DAM Post Office: (479) 929-5775 Volunteer Fire Department: (479) 929-5272 (non-emergencies)

RUDY City: (479) 632-5340 Post Office: (479) 632-2493 For additional numbers, see Crawford County Services

UNIONTOWN Post Office: (479) 474-5689 For additional numbers, see Crawford County Services

1 / 3! 1 b ! Á VAN BUREN

Building Inspector: (479) 474-8943 Cable: Cox Communications (479) 782-8941 Chamber of Commerce: (479) 474-2761 City Attorney: (479) 474-8715 City Clerk: (479) 474-8936 City Engineer: (479) 471-5025 District Court: (479) 474-1671 Electric: Arkansas Valley Electric (800) 4682176; OG&E Electric Services (800) 272-9741 Fire: (479) 471-5042 (non-emergencies) Gas: Arkansas-Oklahoma Gas Corp. (479) 784-2000 Housing Authority: (479) 474-6901 King Opera House: (479) 474-2426 Library: (479) 474-6045

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SPOTLIGHT ON CRAWFORD COUNTY - 2017 | 51

COMMUNITY MEETINGS

MISCELLANEOUS

Alma Masonic Lodge meets the second and fourth Mondays at the lodge building. Supper is at 6:30 p.m.

Crawford County 4-H Shooting Sports 4-H Club meets the first and third Mondays from 7 to 9 p.m. Call 474-5286.

Crawford County Library System holds its board meetings the second Tuesday of January, March, May, July, September and November at 4:30 p.m. For meeting location or more information, call the library system at (479) 471-3226.

Crawford County Volunteers for Literacy, 513 Main St., Van Buren, offers adult reading, math, English as a second language and other classes. Classes are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday. Call 474-4594.

Introduction to computer classes are offered at the Crawford County Adult Education Center. Call 471-0019.

Citizenship classes are offered at the Crawford County Adult Education Center Mondays, 6 to 8 p.m. Call 471-0019.

Robert Jack VFW Post 1322 hosts a PTSD peer support group meeting the first and third Tuesdays of each month at 5:30 p.m. The meetings are open to anyone. Call service officer Shawn Wenninger at (910) 709-9853.

Crawford County Optimist Club meets at noon Thursdays at Las Fresas in Van Buren.

Van Buren Farmers Market is open from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays and Wednesdays. Call (479) 259-7517.

Van Buren Lions Club meets at noon the first, third and fourth Wednesdays at Western Sizzlin’ in Van Buren.

WEEKLY AA meetings are held Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church in Van Buren and Thursdays at 7 p.m. at the Mulberry Senior Center.

Double-Six dominoes is played in the Van Buren Historic District. Call (479) 459-4169.

Freedom for Life Ministries offers Narcotics Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous meetings, 523 Main Street in Van Buren behind the literacy council office, Tuesdays from 9 to 10 a.m. and 6 to 7 p.m. Call Lonnie Bennett, (479) 226-9476, or Jerry Cowan, (479) 650-4738.

GriefShare is held at 9:30 a.m. Mondays, excluding holidays, at Heritage United Methodist Church, 1604 Pointer Trail in Van Buren, and at 6:30 p.m. at Legacy Heights Independent Retirement Center, 1012 Fayetteville Road in Van Buren. Call Shirley Touchstone at (479) 629-7901.

Hearts of Hope “Way Out” drug program meets 8 p.m. Mondays in Alma. Mulberry division meets Saturdays at 7 p.m.

Alma Rotary Club meets Wednesdays at noon at the Alma Community Center. Kiwanis Club of Van Buren meets at noon on Tuesdays at Oliver’s Kitchen.

English as a second language classes are offered at the Crawford County Adult Education Center, Monday through Thursday, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and Tuesday and Thursday, 6 to 8 p.m. Call 471-0019.

Cedarville Farmers Market is held each Saturday beginning at 7:30 a.m. at the Old Rock School. Live entertainment is also held each week.

GED classes are offered at the Crawford County Adult Education Center, Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Wednesday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call 471-0019.

Cedarville Senior Center is open on Fridays from 5 to 9 p.m. for cards, dominoes and karaoke. Bring an item for a potluck. Donations to help with utility costs are encouraged. Call 474-5429.

TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) meets Mondays from 5 to 6 p.m. at VFW Post No. 1322, 23 N. 20th St. in Van Buren. Call (479) 459-2771, (479) 414-1049, (479) 221-7349 or (918) 498-2029.

Van Buren Rotary Club meets at noon Thursday at the Crawford County Extension Office, 105 W. Pointer Trail.

Wednesday Lunch Bunch meets 10:30 a.m. in the Center for Art and Education, 104 N. 13th in Van Buren. Fee is $3.

White Rock Prayer and Teaching Center, 7723 Cain Road in Alma, holds scriptural teaching at 2 p.m. each Saturday. Call Gib Lutes, (479) 2218289.

52 | 2017 - SPOTLIGHT ON CRAWFORD COUNTY

COMMUNITY MEETINGS

MONTHLY FIRST WEEK Autism Spectrum Disorders Support Group will meet the first Thursday at 7 p.m. at Bethlehem Freewill Baptist Church, 3130 Pointer Trail East in Van Buren. Contact Rickie Timmons, (479) 471-7110 or (479) 461-9333.

Clear Creek Masonic Lodge in Mountainburg meets the first Thursday with dinner at 6:30 p.m. and the meeting at 7:30.

Friends of the Van Buren Public Library meet the first Monday at the library at 5:30 p.m. followed by a book talk.

God’s Harvest Church in Alma holds a fellowship singing at 6 p.m. the first Saturday. A covered dish meal precedes the singing at 5.

6:30 p.m., the first Monday at 23 N. 20th St., Van Buren. The VFW Auxiliary meets as well. Call Post Commander Earl Duty, (479) 670-3836, or auxiliary president Holly A. Baker, (479) 445-9303, or visit www.RobertJackVFWPost1322.org.

Alma Public Library.

District 4 Volunteer Fire Department has its board meeting the second Tuesday at 6 p.m. at Station 1 in Cedarville.

SECOND WEEK Alma High School Class of 1955 meets 11:30 a.m. the second Monday at D’s Family Restaurant on Collum Lane in Alma in February, May, August and November.

Bond Special EHC meets at 10 a.m. the second Thursday at the Crawford County Extension Office, 105 Pointer Trail West in Van Buren.

Boys and Girls Club of the Alma Area board of directors meets at 6 p.m. the second Thursday at the club, 410 East Main. Call president Becky Newton at 632-2070.

Friends of the Alma Public Library meets the second Monday in the Alma Public Library. Call 632-4140.

Locke-Fern and Dollard Road Waterworks Public Facilities Board meets the second Monday at 1:30 p.m. at the water office, 505 U.S. 71 SW in Mountainburg.

Natural Dam Community Center meets the second Thursday at 7 p.m. at the community center.

Natural Dam Volunteer Fire Department meets the second Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. Mountainburg FFA Alumni meet the first Saturday at 7 p.m. at Mountainburg High School.

Cedarville 4-H Club meets the second Monday at the Old Rock School at 6 p.m. Call 474-5286.

Remy Masonic Lodge No. 487 in Mulberry meets the first Tuesday at 7:30 p.m., with dinner preceding at 6:30.

Crawford County 4-H Teen Leaders meets the second Monday at 6 p.m. at the county extension office in Van Buren. Call 474-5286.

River Valley Chapter of the Blacksmiths of Arkansas meets the first Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 1604 Daugherty Road in Van Buren. Call (479) 474-5547 or (479) 651-1507.

Crawford County Car Club meets 7 p.m. the second Thursday at Dee’s Restaurant in the Meador’s Inn in Alma. Call Ethan Gordon at 719-0757.

Robert Jack VFW Post 1322 motorcycle riders group meets the first Monday at 5 p.m. Call service officer Shawn Wenninger at (910) 709-9853.

Crawford County Genealogical Society meets 1 p.m. the second Tuesday in the Mushrush Room at

Order of the Eastern Star Fidelity Chapter 86 meets the second Thursday at 7:30 p.m. at the Van Buren Masonic Lodge, 18 Fayetteville Road. Potluck supper begins at 6:30.

Republican Party of Crawford County meets at 7 p.m. at the Republican Headquarters, 620B Main St. in Van Buren, the second Tuesday.

Republican Women of Crawford County meets the second Tuesday at 6 p.m. at the Republican Headquarters, 620B Main Street in Van Buren.

Van Buren First Assembly of God, 1014 Fayetteville Road, serves home-cooked lunches from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. for $7 each the first Thursday. Call 474-7832.

Van Buren Masonic Lodge hosts a breakfast in the lodge the first Saturday, from 7 to 10 a.m. Cost is $5 per person. Children 6 and under are free.

Veterans of Foreign Wars Post No. 1322 meets

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COMMUNITY MEETINGS River Belles EHC meets 7 p.m. the second Monday at 105 Pointer Trail West in Van Buren.

Rocky Top 4-H Club meets in the Turner Community 2:30 p.m. the second Sunday. Call Luann Wise, 217-0280.

Rudy Park Community Association meets 7 p.m. the second Monday in the Rudy Community Building.

TLC Extension Homemakers Club meets 6 p.m. the second Monday at the Turner Community Building. Call Shirley Donnohue, 997-1590.

Turner Community Development Board meets at 6 p.m. the second Friday in the community building. Potluck follows at 6:30 and family night at 7.

Woodmen of the World meets the second Monday at 6 p.m., 2410 Alma Highway. Call 4101726.

Order of the Eastern Star Melody Chapter 579 meets the third Tuesday at Fine Springs Masonic Hall in Alma at 7:30 p.m. Refreshments are served at 6:30.

THIRD WEEK Alma Area Chamber of Commerce meets at noon the third Tuesday at D’s Family Restaurant.

Alzheimer’s Support Group from Memory Lane meets the third Thursday at Legacy Heights, 1012 Fayetteville Road in Van Buren, at 2 p.m. Call 4747233 or 262-6466.

Butterfield District 5 Volunteer Fire Department hosts a pancake breakfast the third Saturday from 7 to 10 a.m. Donations accepted.

Clear Creek Masonic Lodge in Mountainburg hosts a pancake breakfast 7 to 10 a.m. the third Saturday. Cost is $5 per person.

Van Buren Masonic Lodge No. 6 meets the second Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. Dinner is at 6:30. Crawford County Conservation District board meets the third Wednesday at 8:30 a.m. at 701 Fayetteville Road in Van Buren.

Uniontown Extension Homemakers Club meets the third Tuesday at 1:30 p.m. at Uniontown Baptist Church in the fellowship hall. Call Sissie at (479) 474-6181.

Van Buren High School Class of 1961 meets the third Saturday at noon at Western Sizzlin’ in Van Buren. Call Phyllis Brammer Hamlin, 632-3343, or Judy Bushong Coleman, 474-6455.

Van Buren High School Class of 1965 meets for lunch the third Friday at 11:30 a.m. at Western Sizzlin’ in Van Buren.

Women’s Literary Club meets the third Monday 1 p.m. at 421 Webster in downtown Van Buren, September through May.

FOURTH WEEK Alma Extension Homemakers Club meets 1 p.m. the fourth Tuesday in the Alma Public Library.

Crawford County Friends of Genealogy meets the third Sunday at 2:30 p.m. at the Van Buren Public Library. Meetings are not held in July and August. Call Janette Perryman, 474-0664, or Hilda Daugherty, 474-2270.

Disabled American Veterans, Chapter 61, Van Buren, meets 6:30 p.m. the third Monday at 23 N. 20th St., Van Buren. Call Danny Molina at 632-2588.

Dyer Women’s Auxiliary hosts community bingo the third Saturday 6-8 p.m. at the Dyer Community Building. Bring a small gift to be used as door prizes. Concessions are available.

Order of the Eastern Star Chapter No. 260 meets 7:30 p.m. the third Monday at the Remy Masonic Lodge No. 487 in Mulberry. Dinner precedes the meeting.

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Alma VFW and VFWA Post 6465 meets 7 p.m. the fourth Thursday at the Alma Senior Inn.

Cedarville Community Association meets the fourth Tuesday at 1 p.m. at the Old Rock School.

Crawford County Animal Science 4-H Club meets at 6:30 p.m. at the county extension office the fourth Thursday. Call Penni Templeton, 6291016.

Sparks Regional Medical Center - Van Buren Auxiliary meets 1 p.m. the fourth Thursday in the hospital conference room. Call 471-4344.

United Methodist Men of Alma United Methodist Church hold a breakfast with pancakes, biscuits and gravy and sausage from 7 to 10 a.m. the fourth Saturday.

HISTORIC PLACES IN CRAWFORD COUNTY Bob Burns House (Van Buren - Crawford County) 821 Jefferson • 1885 frame house, home of 1930s radio and movie star Bryan House (Van Buren - Crawford County) 105 Fayetteville St. • 1886 Queen Anne Revival structure Bryant-Lasater House (Mulberry-Crawford County) 770 N. Main St. • 1900 home, medical facility Cedar Creek Bridge (Rudy - Crawford County) Arkansas 348 over Cedar Creek 1938 steel Pratt through-truss bridge Cedarville School Building (Cedarville - Crawford County) County Road 523 • 1931 educational structure Chester Masonic Lodge and Community Building (Chester - Crawford County) Front and Dickson Streets • 1942 Plain Traditional-style meeting place Clarke-Harrell-Burson House (Van Buren - Crawford County)

Parkview Street behind City Heights Methodist Church on Fayetteville Road 1841-1842 Greek Revival home of early newspaper publisher Col. Jacob Yoes Building (Chester - Crawford County) Front Street • 1887 structure from railroad boom days Crawford County Road 32D Bridge (Natural Dam - Crawford County) • County Road 32D over Cove Creek • 1937 open masonry substructure bridge

Fairview Cemetery, Confederate Section (Van Buren - Crawford County) Southwest of junction of McKibben and 10th Streets • 1860s Civil War-era burial ground for dead southern troops Frog Bayou Bridge (Mountainburg - Crawford County) • Arkansas 282 over Frog Bayou • 1942 Parker steel through-truss bridge Henry Clay Mills House (Van Buren – Crawford County) 425 N. 15th St. • single-dwelling home circa 1875

Dr. Charles Fox Brown House (Van Buren - Crawford County) 420 Drennen St. • 1867 house joining Greek Revival and Italianate styles

High Rock Petroglyph Shelter (Restricted - Crawford County) Location Restricted • circa 1500 rock art site

Drennen-Scott House (Van Buren - Crawford County) Drennen Reserve-N. 3rd St. • 1836 home of town’s founder

Joseph Starr Dunham House (Van Buren - Crawford County) 401 Drennen St. • circa 1870 “Carpenter Gothic” house

Fairview Cemetery (Van Buren - Crawford County) Bounded by Arkansas 59, McKibben Avenue and Poplar Street • 1816-1955 Nineteenth and twentieth century • city cemetery

Lee Creek Bridge (Cove City - Crawford County) Arkansas 220 over Lee Creek • late 1800s late 19th-century Pennsylvania through-truss bridge

Lee Creek Bridge (Natural Dam - Crawford County) • Arkansas 59 over Lee Creek • 1930s Pennsylvania steeltruss bridge Mount Olive United Methodist Church (Van Buren - Crawford County) Lafayette and Knox Streets • 1889 vernacular Gothic Revival church of black congregation Mountainburg High School (Mountainburg – Crawford Co unt y) • U.S. 7 1 • 19 25 educational facility Mulberry Home Economics Building (Mulberry - Crawford County) • Church Street • 1939 National Youth Administration-built structure Mulberry River Bridge (Mulberry – Crawford County) CR 67, Pleasant Hill 1929 Pratt three-span throughtruss bridge No. 12 School (near Chester - Crawford County) • East of County Road 402, six miles west of Chester • circa 1895 one-room schoolhouse

Old School Presbyterian Church (Van Buren – Crawford County) 421 Webster St. • circa 1900 religious, educational and social facility Slack-Comstock-Marshall Farm (Uniontown - Crawford County) North of Highway 220 • Plain Traditional-style farmhouse built between 1885 and 1918, and related historic outbuildings Van Buren Confederate Monument (Van Buren - Crawford County) 3rd and Main Streets • 1899 commemorative sculpture Van Buren Historic District (Van Buren - Crawford County) 6 blocks of Main Street • commercial structures built between 1880 and 1900 Van Buren Post Office (Van Buren - Crawford County) 22 S. 7th St. • 1936 structure featuring Depression-era mural on interior Wilhauf House (Van Buren - Crawford County) 109 N. 3rd St. Rear • circa 1838 Greek Revival house

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