SIMMERED - DECEMBER 2023 by Do South Magazine

SIMMERED

DECEMBER 2023 DoSouthMagazine.com

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

december

Contents 04 16 60

Letter from Catherine 25 Days of Christmas Giveaways Holiday Gift Guide

{PEOPLE}

24 28

The Gift

{ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT}

06 10

Sugar on Top

Book Recommendations

Christmas Honors Shop Local Restaurant Profiles

‘Tis the Season to Sparkle in Arkansas

{DIY}

42 Project Zero

Vaccinations: A Look Back in Time

{ T R AV E L }

Calendar of Events

{COMMUNITY}

08 12 14 32

Mamas, Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up to be JPEGS

{HEALTH}

{TASTE}

44 46 48 50

Climb Higher

Scents of the Season

The Ugly Christmas Sweater Gingerbread Bundt Cake Cocoa with a Kick Sugar Cookie Martini

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OUR COVER Image: zi3000/Shutterstock

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Letter from Catherine

PRESENCE

As we rush into the final month of the year, it's always hard for me to believe how quickly we got here. Although a busy one, December is always one of my favorites – a month filled with holiday cheer, random acts of kindness, and a sense of relief that we made it, as we look forward to the new year to come.

DECEMBER 2023 OWNER - PUBLISHER - EDITOR Catherine Frederick

Our youngest will come home from college for a couple of days between basketball games, our first grandbaby turns six months old, and our oldest is hopeful for a day or two off from her residency in Texas to join us. No presents are needed for me this year. I am more excited than ever to gather our family close and simply enjoy their presence! In the spirit of the season, this month's issue is brimming with features that capture the essence of December. Inspiring stories of individuals, a multitude of recipes just right for the season, a packed calendar of holiday events, tips for where to view millions of Christmas lights, and our annual Holiday Gift Guide filled with ideas for everyone on your list! As the world around us sparkles, it's time to remember the importance of kindness, empathy, and coming together. I encourage you to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the season to savor the quiet moments. Whether it's enjoying a cup of hot cocoa by the fireplace (we’re sharing several recipes), taking a winter stroll in the crisp air, or spending quality time with those you love, seek joy in life’s simple pleasures. Connect with loved ones with visits and phone calls, not emails or texts. It’s true what they say, time is the greatest gift of all. My heartfelt wishes go out to each one of you. I hope your December is filled with warmth, love, and joy. Here's to a wonderful end to the year, and to new beginnings. See you in January!

Catherine

Catherine Frederick, Owner/Publisher/Editor catherine@dosouthmagazine.com

COPY EDITING Charity Chambers GRAPHIC DESIGN Artifex 323 – Jessica Meadors CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER Jade Graves CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Marla Cantrell, Catherine Frederick, Dwain Hebda, Sara Putman, Bob Robinson, Dr. Kendall Wagner ADVERTISING INFORMATION Catherine Frederick I 479.782.1500 catherine@dosouthmagazine.com

FOLLOW US ©2023 Read Chair Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in whole or in part in any manner without the permission of the copyright owner. Opinions contained in Do South ® are exclusively those of the writers and do not represent those of Read Chair Publishing, LLC. as a whole or its affiliates. Any correspondence, including photography, becomes the property of Read Chair Publishing, LLC. Do South ® reserves the right to edit content and images. Printed in the U.S.A. | ISSN 2373-1893

Annual subscriptions are $36 (12 months), within the contiguous United States. Subscribe at DoSouthMagazine.com or via mail, 4300 Rogers Avenue, Ste. 20, PMB 110, Fort Smith, Arkansas 72903. Single issues available upon request. Inquiries or address changes, call 479.782.1500.

To inquire about this free space for your charitable nonprofit organization, email: catherine@dosouthmagazine.com.

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entertainment

DECEMBER EVENTS December 1, 8:30a - 2p CHRISTMAS HONORS WREATH WORKSHOP

December 2, 10a-8p JINGLE & MINGLE ON MAIN Ar t s on Ma in , V a n B u r e n

Fo r t Smith Convention C e nte r

December 1, 11a HOLIDAY EXPRESS TRAIN VAN BUREN TO WINSLOW AM Tr ain Depot, Van Bu r e n

December 1, 4-6p HOLIDAY AT HERITAGE PICTURES WITH SANTA

December 9, 12-4p HOLIDAY ART PARTY & PHOTOS WITH SANTA F o r t S m it h R e g io n a l Ar t Mu s eum

December 2 & 9, 10a-1p SELFIES WITH SANTA G e t S n ap p in ’ , F o r t S m it h

December 9, 6-8p TOYLAND CHRISTMAS PARADE Downtown Van Buren

December 2, 2p & 7:30p A CHRISTMAS CAROL PRESENTED BY EARTHEN VESSELS DRAMA COMPANY

December 9, 7:30p RHONDA VINCENT CHRISTMAS

K i n g O pe r a H o u s e , V a n B u r e n

F o r t S m it h

December 2, 7pm HOLIDAY CELEBRATION PRESENTED BY FORT SMITH SYMPHONY

December 13, 4p WINE NIGHT PRESENTED BY JLFS

Ar c B e s t P e r fo r m in g Ar t s Cent er

The V i llage at Heritage , B ar li n g

December 1, 5:30 - 8:30p DRENNEN SCOTT CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE

Ar c B e s t P AC , F o r t S m it h

December 4, 9a-4p MOMMY & ME COCOA & COOKIE PARTY

December 14-16, Times Vary A WACKY TACKY CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR PRESENTED BY FORT SMITH LITTLE THEATRE

C r e e kmo r e P a r k C o m m u n it y B u ild in g

F o r t S m it h L it t le T h e a t r e , Fort Sm it h

D r enne n Scott House, Van B ur e n

December 1-6, Times Vary HOLIDAY EXPRESS TRAIN VAN BUREN TO RUDY AM Tr ain Depot, Van Bu r e n

Un c o r k’ d , F o r t S m it h

F or t S mi t h

December 1 - 27, Times Vary 2023 CREEKMORE HOLIDAY EXPRESS & LIGHTS

December 7, 6p FESTIVAL OF TREES

December 16, 7p; 17, 2p THE NUTCRACKER PRESENTED BY WESTERN ARKANSAS BALLET

C r awfor d C o u n t y C o u r t h o u se

Ar c B e s t P e r fo r m in g Ar t s Cent er

Cr eekmore P ark, Fort S mi th

Van B u r e n

F o r t S m it h

December 1 - 30, Times Vary VAN BUREN'S CHRISTMAS ICE SKATING RINK

December 8, 6p YULE RUN PRESENTED BY THE GREENWOOD CHAMBER

December 16, 7p & 17, 2 & 7p A CHRISTMAS STORY THE MUSICAL PRESENTED BY CSA

Fr eedo m P ark , Van Bur e n

G r e e n wo o d

Kin g O p e r a H o u se , V a n Buren

December 2, 8a-12p CHRISTMAS HONORS

December 9, 8a-4p HOLIDAY IN WHOVILLE

Fo r t Smith National Ceme t e r y

O ld T own V a n Bu r e n

December 16, 7:30p DAVID PHELPS IT MUST BE CHRISTMAS

December 2, 9a-4p; 3, 9a-2p HOLIDAY MARKET

December 9, 3p FORT SMITH CHRISTMAS PARADE

R i ver Bend Event Cente r , F or t S mi t h

D owntow n F o r t S m it h

S ko k o s P e r fo r m in g Ar t s C e nt er, A lm a

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entertainment

ARTS ON MAIN – VAN BUREN ARTSONMAINVB.COM Dec. 1: Paint & Sip: Christmas Couples Dec. 2: Apple of My Eye Culinary Class Dec. 4, 11, 18: Handbuilding Pottery Classes

BOOKISH: AN INDIE SHOP FOR FOLKS WHO READ – FORT SMITH BOOKISHFS.COM

FORT SMITH REGIONAL ART MUSEUM FSRAM.ORG P e r m a n e n t e xh ib it s : S p a r ks Sculp t ure G a r d e n , T h e T o u c h G a lle r y, Dr. W. E . Kn ig h t P o r c e la in G a lle r y

S tor y ti me : S a t u r d a y s, 1 1 a D e c . 1 : F o r t C it y S la m O p e n Mic , 6 p Dec. 3: Adult Fiction Writer's Workshop, 2p

R A M S a t u r d a y s : 1 2 - 4 p ( F R EE ) G u id e d T o u r S u n d a y s: 2 p (F RE E )

Dec. 12: Homemade Holiday Cards

Dec. 8: 2nd Annual Cookie Exchange, 6p

Dec. 13: Treats and Tales

D e c . 1 0 : A n E v e n in g w it h S a n t a , 5 p , fr e e , r e g i st r a t io n r e q u ir e d

T o D e c . 3 1 : L iz W h it n e y Q u is gard

D e c . 1 5 : J o la b o k a flo d C h r is t m a s Bo o k Ex c han g e , 6 p m

T o J a n . 1 4 : Ma r t in P e e r so n and Sus an Mo r r iso n E xh ib it s

Dec. 16: Festive Linocuts

D e c . 1 6 : L o c a l Au t h o r s J im Kr e u z a n d Ju di H ar rin g t o n , 1 2 : 3 0 p

T o F e b . 4 : Ar T s a t B o s t C r eat iv it y , C o n n e c t io n a n d C h o ic e s

Dec. 22: Christmas Kids’ Hot Chocolate Paint & Sip Party

D e c . 1 6 : A d u lt F ic t io n W r it e r ' s Wor ks h op , 2 p m

T o F e b . 1 1 : V ir m a r ie D e P o y s t er B e y o n d L a b e ls

Nov. 25: Mini Rug Coaster Workshop

D e c . 22: A S t r in g F o r t S m it h C h r is t m a s C onc e r t, 4 p m

Dec. 15: Taste of Hanukkah Culinary Class Dec. 16: Sugar, Spice & Everything Nice Culinary Class

Drop-in & Draw: Thursdays, 1p-3p (FREE)

THE BAKERY DISTRICT – FORT SMITH BAKERYFS.COM

UAFS ATHLETICS UAFORTSMITHLIONS.COM

T r iv ia : Mo n d a y , 6 : 3 0 p

D e c . 2: W o m e n ’ s B a s ke t b a ll v s . Lubboc k C h r ist ia n , 1 p

Y o g a : T u e s d a y s & T h u r sd a y s , 5:3 0p C o r n h o le (B a g s a t T h e Ba kery ): W e d n e sd a y s, 6 : 3 0 p

D e c . 2: Me n ’ s Ba ske t b a ll v s . Lubboc k C h r ist ia n , 3 p D e c . 30: Me n ’ s Ba sk e t b a ll v s. D allas C h r ist ia n C o lle g e , 1 p

F o r t S m it h J a z z J a m : 3rd Thursday, 6:30p F o r t S m it h Blu e s J a m : 3 r d Sund ay , 1p

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

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community

KENNETH, KENLEE, KAVON AND ERNIE

IMAGE courtesy Jon Yoder Photography

AGES 11, 10, 7 & 5 These four siblings are great kids! Kenneth, the oldest and the leader of the family, is initially quiet and shy, but once he gets to know you, he is outgoing and talkative! He loves technology, tablets, and video games, although like most kids, he can get a little distracted at times. Kenneth is very smart, makes good grades, and loves to learn! Next is Kenlee. He is a true-blue animal lover! He loves drawing animals and reading animal books. In addition, Kenlee enjoys watching TV, drawing, and playing with toys. He also enjoys all kinds of foods! Then we have Kavon, who loves all things related to Sonic the Hedgehog! Kavon is a kind-hearted young man who really enjoys looking sharp and wearing nice clothes. Ernie is the baby of the family. He is a shy but independent young man. Ernie enjoys playing with toys, learning his ABC’s, and really enjoys picking out his own clothes for school and dressing himself! All four kiddos struggle academically and don’t always follow directions as well as they should, but these challenges should improve drastically when they get the one thing they’ve never had – a patient, consistent, supportive family. It really is that simple. These kids need to be home – in your home! Take that first step and inquire about these amazing siblings today!

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

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entertainment

Enjoy these recommendations from our friends at Bookish, Fort Smith, Arkansas’ only independently owned bookstore located in The Bakery District. December Recommendations courtesy Sara Putman, Bookish

How to Decorate a Christmas Tree

by Vikki VanSickle and Miki Sato This delightful holiday picture book beautifully captures the essence of Christmas traditions and togetherness. The charming narrative takes you through the steps of tree decorating, from lights and ornaments to popcorn and hot chocolate. The threedimensional ar t brings the story to life in a vivid and enchanting way. A perfect gift for young readers and a timeless story for the young at hear t.

The Lost Library

by Rebecca Stead and Wendy Mass

This would make the perfect Christmas break read for young readers (8-12). When a mysterious little free library guarded by a fat orange cat appears in their town, Evan and Rafe uncover a secret tied to an old book. As they dig for answers, the town's history is revealed. Narrated by a ghost librarian, a cat, and Evan, The Lost Library explores truth, choice, and the magic of books.

Enter to win one of these selections at DoSouthMagazine.com!

The Covenant of Water

A Booze & Vinyl Christmas

by Abraham Verghese

by André Darlington and Jason Varney

In The Covenant of Water, readers will discover a captivating family saga set in the lush landscapes of Kerala, India, where generations grapple with an enigmatic connection to water. This enthralling tale weaves love, loss, and the inexorable passage of time into a rich narrative. This book is the perfect selection for the fiction enthusiasts on your list seeking an immersive holiday read.

Our nonfiction friends will enjoy this curated collection of the best holiday albums paired with cocktails that connect to the ar tist or complement the music. Explore for ty holiday albums from the 1940s to the present, with liner notes and boozy beverage recipes. Enjoy the music of legendary ar tists like Elvis, Mariah Carey, Frank Sinatra, and more. There are even some delicious holiday food recipes for a festive season!

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community

Do South Cares

DS: How did Christmas Honors come to be? In 2009, I learned that the Arlington National Cemetery decorates rotating sections of the gravesites with wreaths each December. I shared this information with a group of friends

words Catherine Frederick with Philip H. Merry, Jr., Christmas Honors

who discovered many of the headstones at the Fort Smith National Cemetery received little attention during the Christmas season. The group decided to change this, and Christmas Honors was born to honor every headstone at the cemetery. It would be all or none. DS: Who does Christmas Honors serve and in what way? Our purpose is to show gratitude for the service and sacrifices made by veterans buried at the Fort Smith National Cemetery, the veterans who are presently in the service ranks, and their families by honoring them each December with a wreath. DS: How does Christmas Honors impact our community? Over 1,000 volunteers give their time, money, and resources each year to make this event a reality for our veterans. Strangers partner together to prepare the wreaths and leave as friends. Stories are shared. Hugs are exchanged on the emotional day when the wreaths are laid. Volunteers include our military, city leadership, police and fire departments, veteran

The mission of Christmas Honors

organizations, companies, local organizations, churches, schools, individual citizens and

is to present appreciation to

many others - all with a passion to help. This very special event unites our community via

veterans and their families such

a common goal.

that they will never be forgotten. Do South® reached out to Philip

DS: How can our community get involved and show support?

H. Merry, Jr. with Christmas

Volunteers are needed at the wreath workshop, participation at the Christmas Honors

Honors, to learn more.

event and wreath pick up day! There is no need to sign up to participate, simply show up and jump in! However, if you would like to bring a school group or a group from an organization or company, or are providing a truck and trailer, we do ask that you complete

Christmas Honors

the volunteer or truck sign-up form available on our website so we can plan accordingly. In

479.926.0939

addition, each year we need monetary donations to purchase additional wreaths and bows

P.O. Box 10696

to account for every headstone. Donations can be made via the website as well.

Fort Smith, Arkansas 72917 ChristmasHonors.org

DS: What is something that many people may not know about Christmas Honors? Christmas Honors has helped the following communities start their own programs to honor their veterans: Grove, Oklahoma, Mena, Arkansas, Muskogee, Oklahoma, North Little

Next month, we’ll showcase

Rock, Arkansas and Siloam Springs, Arkansas.

another worthy nonprofit in our area free of charge. Requests for this free page accepted beginning October, 2024. Send inquiries to

DS: Are there any upcoming events or needs we should know about? Our Wreath Workshop/Assembly is Friday, December 1, 2023 at the Fort Smith Convention

catherine@dosouthmagazine.com,

Center, Hall C, from 9AM – 2PM. The Christmas Honors Wreath Event is Saturday,

or call 479.782.1500.

December 2, 2023 at the Fort Smith National Cemetery. Family time is from 8AM – 11AM, the Public Ceremony is at 11AM, and the Public Laying of the Wreaths at approximately 11:30AM. Wreath Pick Up and Storage is Friday, January 5, 2024.

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shop

The Gift of Shopping Local! imageS Jade Graves Photography and courtesy vendors

Hearts On Fire Vela Crossover Bangle, 18kt White, Yellow and Rose Gold, 1.15cts

Whip Shots Infused Whipped Cream and Meridiem ReadyTo-Drink Cocktails

JOHN MAYS JEWELERS

IN GOOD SPIRITS

CENTER FOR HEARING AND BALANCE

479.452.2140

479.434.6604

479.785.3277

Give the Gift of Better Hearing

Eyewear by Tom Ford

STILES EYE GROUP 479.452.2020

Night Before Christmas Soy Candles by Glasshouse Fragrances

Peerless Double Oaked Bourbon, Beau Joie Brut Champagne and Sugar King Demi Sec Champagne, Boulder Spirits American Single Malt Whiskey, Teeter Totter Cali Cab Sauvignon

BLACK BISON CO.

SODIE’S WINE & SPIRITS

479.551.2880

479.783.8013

DO DS OO SU OT UH TM HA MG AA GZ AIZNI E N.EC.O CM OM

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contest

days of christmas

Giveaways

HOW TO WIN: Beginning December 1, visit Do South® on Facebook or Instagram for the code word of the day. Submit your entry at dosouthmagazine.com/contests for your chance to win! Winner will be notified the following day.

Polka-Dotted Zebra Children’s Boutique 7225 Chad Colley Boulevard Barling | 479.883.1599 polkadottedzebraboutique.com Enter for your chance to win the famous Freshly Picked diaper bag in a mini!

Fort Smith Symphony

Compact, stylish, and ready to tackle the day’s adventures! VALUE $120

1000 Fianna Way, Fort Smith Fort Smith | 479.452.7575 fortsmithsymphony.org Two tickets to the Symphony’s most popular concert of the year, Holiday Celebration, featuring classic holiday favorites and performances by Joslin, the Kool Cats Jazz Quartet and Jolt Electric Quartet. VALUE $100

Calico County 2401 South 56th Street, Fort Smith 479.452.3299 | calicocounty.net What will you use your gift card for? Delicious cinnamon rolls…fried chicken salad…chicken fried steak? At Calico County you can’t go wrong! VALUE $50 DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

contest

UAFS Athletics 5210 Grand Avenue Fort Smith | 479.788.7000 uafs.edu GO LIONS! Run to the Roar as you enjoy

John Mays Jewelers

a pair of general admission season passes

5622 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith

to UAFS athletic events in all three sports

479.452.2140 | johnmaysjewelers.com

(tickets will be emailed to winner)!

‘Tis the “sea-son”! Jay Strongwater Christmas Whale Glass Ornament,

VALUE $150

Hand-painted and accented with Swarovski Crystal. VALUE $295

Affinity Day Spa 4034 Rogers Avenue, Ste. D Fort Smith | 479.242.2710 Prepare to be pampered! You’ll bask in the glow after your GloFacial from Christian at Affinity Day Spa! VALUE $200

Community School of the Arts 201 North 19th Street, Fort Smith 479.434.2020 | csafortsmith.org Fa-la-la-la-la all the way to the show! Grab some friends and enjoy four tickets to A

The Market

Christmas Story the Musical presented by

3716 South 87th Street

Community School of the Arts! VALUE $80

Fort Smith | 479.551.2880 blackbisoncoffee.com Yum! Enjoy this incredible Olivelle gift basket filled with delicious specialty oils, vinegars, dipper seasoning, pasta, and sauce! VALUE $150 DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

contest

Bookish 70 South 7th Street Fort Smith | 479.434.8631 bookishfs.com Enjoy two tickets to Stems and Stories, an incredible wine and book pairing event at Bookish in downtown Fort Smith, located inside the Bakery District! VALUE $100

Stiles Eye Group

Firefly Boutique

2401 South Waldron Road, Fort Smith

613 Main Street, Van Buren | 479.208.3039

479.452.2020 | stileseyegroup.com

One lucky winner will enjoy this beautiful backpack

Oversized and edgy, a true statement

purse with leopard guitar strap, Jack’s Gourmet

piece! Enter for your chance to win Blush

Seasoning and choice of hot sauce from Firefly

by Caroline Abrams “Dynamite“ Sunglasses

Boutique! VALUE $70

from Stiles Eye Group! VALUE $320

Fort Smith Coffee Co. 1101 Rogers Avenue Fort Smith | 479.226.2437 fortsmithcoffeeco.com From coffees to specialty drinks and delicious treats, there are so many ways to enjoy your gift card from Fort Smith Coffee Co.! VALUE $100

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contest

POSH Aesthetics & Wellness 7225 Chad Colley Boulevard Barling | 479.363.3247

Meregold

poshfortsmith.com

8819 Rogers Avenue

Treat yourself this Christmas season

Fort Smith | 479.769.2991

at Posh Aesthetics & Wellness as

‘Tis the season for all things Nutcracker!

you enjoy the fabulous gift of $500

Enter to win this adorable Christmas

off any of their luxurious aesthetic

décor package! VALUE $110

treatments! VALUE $500

Hummingbird Boutique 4300 Rogers Avenue, Ste. 33, Fort Smith | 479.420.4008 Hummingbird-boutique-fortsmith.myshopify.com Gift card! Whether you’re shopping for stylish apparel, jewelry, unique gift items, or items of faith, you’ll find

Fort Smith Little Theatre

it all at Hummingbird Boutique in Fort

fit.four.five

Smith! VALUE $50

479.652.0979

401 North 6th Street, Fort Smith

fitfourfive.com

479.783.2966 | fslt.org

Enjoy two fit.four.five eBooks to keep

Exceptional entertainment, preferred seating,

you on the road to a healthier you!

and admission to six productions with a FSLT

eBooks include Dinners to Keep You

2024 Season Flex Pass. VALUE $75

Warm & The FFF Diet. VALUE $70 DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

contest

Passmore Plastic Surgery 7805 Phoenix Avenue, Fort Smith 479.242.2442 | passmoreplasticsurgery.com Theraderm® Anti-Aging System, a skin care regimen of high-quality products, works in concert to exfoliate, moisturize, and improve

Card and Cloth

skin appearance and texture. VALUE $400

4300 Rogers Ave., Ste. 23, Fort Smith 7209 Chad Colley Blvd. Ste. H, Barling 479.522.0512 | cardandclothshop.com This fan-friendly package includes a Market Notepad, Le Pen, Clear Gameday Fanny Pack with Game Day Beaded Coin Pouch, and Gameday Cheer Tumbler! VALUE $100

Fennel & Fire

The Woodsman

402 East 3rd, Little Rock

5609 Rogers Avenue

501.765.3211 | fennelandfire.com

Fort Smith | 479.452.3559

Fennel and spice and all things nice – that’s

thewoodsmancompany.com Look good, feel good with this KAVU Fanny Pack, The Woodsman Company Beanie, and Sasquatch Silipint Cup. VALUE $70 DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

what this gift set is made of. Enter for your chance to win this incredible Gift Set (will be sent to the winner). VALUE $65

contest

4 CORKS WINE AND SPIRITS 8000 South Zero Fort Smith | 479.310.8444 Check out this Wine Stave crafted from a retired wine barrel! Win it along with a Pumpkin Porter Candle by Torched. VALUE $65

Natural Drip 1401 South Waldron Road Fort Smith | 479.629.8300 naturaldripiv.com The benefits of IV therapy are numerous! This amazing package includes IV’s or Injections from the professionals at Natural Drip, THE place for Natural IV hydration and nutrition! VALUE: $250

Uncork’d 5501 Phoenix Avenue, Fort Smith 479.434.5000 | uncorkthefort.com Gift card! Uncork'd offers an unparalleled experience with a huge selection of curated wines, craft beers and bourbons on tap paired with dinner entrees & shareables. VALUE $100

Salon Elements 314 Lexington Avenue, Fort Smith 479.649.3435 | salonelements.com Indulge in luxury and be pampered with a one-hour massage in the new state-of-the-art Black Panther massage chair and a brow lamination from Salon Elements! VALUE $135

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health

Vaccinations A Look Back in Time WORDS Dr. Kendall Wagner, Chaffee Crossing Clinic Image Numstocker/Shutterstock

Around the 1st century, a disease was introduced into Western

While variolation was practiced across Europe for several

Civilization that changed the course of history. A large-

hundred years, it was in Boston, Massachusetts, during the

scale epidemic occurring in the Roman Empire around 100

Great Epidemic of 1721, that the process was scientifically

AD resulted in the death of 7 million people and was likely

demonstrated to provide effective management of an epidemic

integral to the empire's fall. By the 7th century, this disease

outbreak. In 1721 a ship from the West Indies ported into

had become endemic in Europe and intermittently resulted in

Boston Harbor carrying individuals infected with smallpox;

epidemics among the population, leading to 400,000 deaths

many individuals born in the Americas had not been previously

annually. With the expansion of Europeans into the Americas,

affected by the illness. An epidemic quickly ensued, infecting

the disease resulted in the decimation of the American Indian

half of Boston's population, 12,000 people. Against much

population and led to the disappearance of the Aztec and Incan

opposition from the established medical community and the

populations.

public, Reverend Cotton Mather, a Harvard Graduate aware of variolation, convinced only one physician in Boston, Dr. Zabdiel

This horrific disease – variola, commonly known as smallpox or

Boylston, to employ the practice to combat the illness. Reverend

the "speckled monster" in 18th century Europe, would appear

Mather and Dr. Boylston documented the mortality rate of

suddenly and cause a fatality rate of up to sixty percent in adults

individuals who contracted the disease naturally versus by the

and ninety percent in infants. Disfiguring scars and high rates of

process of variolation. Natural infection resulted in fourteen

blindness affected approximately a third of survivors who were

percent mortality, and those inoculated had a mortality rate

subsequently immune to the illness. Physicians employed this

of two percent. This data eventually convinced the medical

immunity in the 18th century through inoculation. Fluid from

community, and by 1757, thousands of children across England

a smallpox pustule of an infected individual would be inserted

were inoculated. One of those children was Edward Jenner,

into an incision, usually on the arm of the receiving individual,

eight years old, of Gloucester, England.

in a procedure known as variolation. This procedure usually resulted in the individual experiencing milder symptoms.

That eight-year-old would become Dr. Edward Jenner, a physician and surgeon with a thriving practice in Gloucester,

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

health

England. During his surgical apprenticeship, one of his patients,

develop the first polio vaccination, achieving eradication of the

a young dairymaid, stated, "I shall never have smallpox for I have

polio virus from the U.S.

had cowpox. I shall never have an ugly pockmarked face." It was a common belief that dairymaids were somehow protected

Vaccination programs have grown to include vaccinations

from smallpox. Dr. Jenner always remembered the statement,

against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis, as well as vaccination

and in 1796, twenty years later, as a respected physician and

against varicella (chicken pox) and measles/mumps/rubella

scientist of the Royal Society, he harvested fluid from a cowpox

during the first two years of life. Immunization against

lesion from the hand of a dairymaid and injected it into the

streptococcus pneumoniae and haemophilus influenzae has

arm of an eight-year-old boy. The boy developed discomfort in

significantly reduced infant mortality and morbidity.

the armpit, fever twenty-four hours later, mild loss of appetite, and fatigue for one week following the injection, with no

Vaccinations work by imitating an immune response. They may

further symptoms. Two months later, Dr. Jenner inoculated the

contain a weakened live virus modified so it can no longer cause

same boy with the smallpox virus. The boy did not develop any

disease or may include only protein particles that resemble the

evidence of smallpox disease, and immunity was assumed. Dr.

virus or bacteria and cannot result in the active disease. These

Jenner was able to replicate his work in many other patients

antigens stimulate the body to make protective antibodies.

and convince the medical community in England to abandon

Live virus vaccines usually require two boosters, while protein

inoculation and accept vaccination (a term coined by Dr.

particle vaccines require three or more boosters to achieve

Jenner after the Latin word vacca – meaning cow). In 1840,

adequate immunity. When exposed to that specific virus or

variolation with the smallpox virus was forbidden and replaced

pathogen in the future, the body can more quickly mount an

with vaccination. Worldwide vaccination programs in the 1950s

immune response to combat the infection, resulting in non- or

resulted in the disease being declared eradicated in 1980.

reduced illness and decreased transmission of the infection.

Smallpox vaccination is not currently recommended. Recently, COVID-19 prompted a new approach to vaccine In 1918, the modern world's first pandemic occurred. Spanish

creation: mRNA vaccine technology. This technology uses a

influenza swept across the world, infecting an estimated 500

genetic blueprint instructing the host to create a protein that

million people, and resulting in the death of 20-30 million

stimulates an immune response. This vaccine technology allows

people. Death was usually a result of pneumonia that developed

for more rapid vaccine production. While some vaccinations may

due to lung damage from the virus. The medical community

confer near-lifelong immunity, others, such as the flu vaccine,

rushed to create a vaccination for the illness causing the

require repeated boosters. The CDC recommends annual flu

Spanish influenza; however, those efforts proved futile because

vaccination due to the tendency for the virus to mutate. Flu

they were incorrect in identifying the actual cause.

vaccines may be updated annually to reflect changes in the virus.

Following the Spanish influenza pandemic, Thomas Francis, Jr.

Vaccination has revolutionized medicine, and the way humans

and Dr. Jonas Salk developed a process for growing the virus

interact with disease. While vaccines have saved millions of

in fertilized hen eggs, purifying, and inactivating it. Francis and

lives, vaccine reactions and side effects may occur. If you have

Salk were able to effectively vaccinate the U.S. Military in the

questions, please discuss which vaccinations are suitable for

1940s during World War II. Eventually, with others, they would

you with your physician!

Kendall Wagner, M.D. is a regular healthcare contributor to Do South® Magazine. Chaffee Crossing Clinic 11300 Roberts Boulevard, Fort Smith, Arkansas 479.242.5910 | chaffeecrossingclinic.com DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

people

The Gift WORDs Dwain Hebda images courtesy Eddie Tipton, Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, and Brittany Ransom

Ten-year-old Eddie Tipton peered out the window and then down at the paper on his desk. In careful deliberate strokes, he sketches, like always. The boy is observant and when he sees things on the way to school – a squirrel, a cat, a flower – his mind captures them as through a lens and he develops them at the tip of a pencil, pen, or crayon. A bright kid, Eddie’s already come to know the concept of circumstances beyond his control. It would always be harder for him, whatever he tried to do or be; the road always a little steeper, the mud around his feet a little thicker. Drawing somehow helps, which is why Eddie never misses the chance to do it. Faces and dogs and trees, drawn on scraps, on paper grocery bags and the brilliant white insides of Kleenex boxes. There’s a magical quality to art; in his sketches, the electricity is never turned off and his mom is never sick and the address where they live doesn’t change like the weather. Eddie feels the presence of someone looking over him. Miss Luce. He’s seen her take notice of his art, but he doesn’t know the half of what she knows about him — of his single mother struggling to feed four little boys; of the file that follows kids like him around from school to school, sometimes several schools. Sometimes, as in Eddie’s case, through twenty-six schools before sixth grade. Not all teachers invest in kids like that, because what’s the point? He’ll probably be gone sooner than later, anyway. But Miss Luce is not most teachers. That’s why she allows him to doodle, to create, as it gives her insight into things of importance to him, things he yearns for that he’s either too young or too shy to express verbally. She sees these things and as he turns in his paper or passes out the door to recess she comments on his drawing, says that she likes it, and she means it. Every time she does, he blooms a little like the wayward first jonquil, an unexpected splash of color against the dark palette of winter. DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

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Later that year, the bicentennial, Miss Luce asks Eddie to draw

skin peppered and folded, the cumulous brown and black

something for a school program. He draws backdrops and

feathers that take on a slightly iridescent sheen as the light

scenes of American culture – the Roaring ‘20s, the TV show

hits them. In his studio today, canvases of turkeys strut among

Gunsmoke. One day the local newspaper shows up and she

pieces depicting deer and elk and wood ducks.

has them snap his picture next to his creations. When it prints, he’s not just another poor kid anymore. People all over town,

The prize of them all is a piece he recently entered in a contest

however fleeting, know his name.

sponsored by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission to select the official artwork for this year’s Turkey Stamp, a permit which

***

hunters must buy to legally harvest gobblers in the Natural State. Eddie always wanted to see how his work stacked up

Principal Eddie Tipton, fifty-six, gazes across the desk at the

against full-time wildlife artists, but residual insecurities can be

morose teen slumped in the chair. In thirty-four years in education, twelve of it as principal of Van Buren High School, he’s seen plenty of kids sitting in that very spot. Some were legitimately tough cases, but not this one; this is simply another kiddo crying out for attention. Chances are he’ll grow out of this phase, but Heaven help everyone until he does. Eddie musters a stern look, issues words of warning and sends the kid back to Study Hall. What would Miss Luce do? Over lunch, Eddie punctuates his meal by looking at photos he’s warehoused on his phone. What appears to others as merely woods and water is in fact homework for the seasoned educator. He’s got an eye for wildlife subjects but unlike people, wildlife won’t hold a pose or wait for you to adjust the light. That must come from imagination, experience and yes, from photos. Art is really just manipulation of geometric shapes, at least to his way of thinking, and this perspective allows him to capture a duck eternally on the wing or a bass perpetually in mid-leap. He's learned these things by doing and has ever since his college days. Back then, he was going to major in art and learn to teach it, but the curriculum clashed with football, and since football is what paid his way to Arkansas Tech University, art had to take the back seat. It’s not like it was the first time – that honor goes to the art scholarship he earned while attending Van Buren High School that he had to turn down to stay close to home and raise his little brothers. Still, working and improving on his own, he got good enough to sell a few pieces in college, twenty bucks here and there, in pencil or paint. For years, his passion subject has been wild turkeys, far more majestic in the wild than their domesticated cousins and far more beautiful than most city folks give them credit for. He delights in capturing the regal toms, blue and pink at the head, DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

Eddie Tipton

people

hard to shake, and he nearly didn’t enter at all. Entry day he waffled until time nearly ran out before sending in what would be the winning work. It was the ultimate validation, a long way from drawing on grocery bags. After three decades of teaching history and setting knuckleheads straight, Eddie can see retirement around the corner and has had time to picture himself and his art in it. Maybe he’ll teach art classes at last. Maybe he’ll just create, especially now that his cherished granddaughter has taken to helping in the studio. With a turkey stamp to his credit and an online art dealer carrying his work, people all over the internet are learning his name.

Eddie and his granddaughter

*** of so many as their feet slid, holding the exhausted in place Eighteen-year-old Eddie Tipton opened his eyes and watched

unable or unwilling to fight forward any longer.

the ceiling above his head come into focus. The glow of late December couldn’t do much to lighten this room with its frayed

Over the past two years, Eddie’s artistic talents have been

edges and dingy ceiling. It was the same thing he woke up to

honed right alongside his athletic skills. Art allows him a

every day; even when they moved around, which was often,

freedom of possibility unknown on the unlit side of town, so

he noticed the ceiling always looked the same. Somber like a

he soaks up every lecture, dives into every project including a

haggard cloud. Suffocating like poverty.

mural downtown. People take notice. It feels good.

Today was the last day of school before Christmas break and

As school dismisses for the semester, Eddie’s called aside.

soon, most of his classmates would be doing what normal

That’s usually not a good sign, but the teacher calms him,

families do this time of year. Dress in church clothes. Slide

tells him nothing’s wrong. A coach saw something, told an

turkeys into ovens. Welcome loved ones. Tear open presents.

administrator, an administrator told a teacher, and a teacher

There’d be none of that at his house, of course, but that didn’t

told another teacher. All together, they pitched in for all the

mean he didn’t feel intently that it was happening all over town.

Tipton kids, gathering hand-me-down furniture and helping

He knew this as clearly as the lights he saw on other people’s

make sure the lights stayed on. They hand the stunned

houses and the brightness he felt in other people’s lives.

teenager a parcel of brightly wrapped packages. “Merry Christmas,” echoes in his disbelieving ears.

This year seems particularly heavy, given his mother’s illness. Being sick, she can’t work and not working means they’ll

On Christmas morning, Eddie opens the package with his

likely lose the rent house they’re in, the one where the power

name on it. Inside, he finds a box of canvas and paints and

company has already been jolly enough to shut the power off

sketch pads purchased by teachers who’ve seen his talent. In

a couple of times leading up to Christmas.

many households this morning, it ranks as a modest gesture but to Eddie, it’s something he’ll cherish as the best he ever

Being the oldest, Eddie is the man of the cold, darkened

got, the one that said: Let this gift develop your gift. He opens

house, looking out for his siblings in addition to his studies

one of the impossibly smooth and white sketch pads, looks

and football. He is good at football, better than other kids

out the window, and starts to draw.

with other options after graduation. Football is his ticket to college and out from under a life of dirty walls, cracked windows and government-subsidized ceilings. Out of the mud that the poor slogged through in life, that sapped the strength

Find Eddie’s latest work online at wildwings.com/pages/eddie-tipton.

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Mamas, Don’t Let Your Babie s G row Up to Be JPEG S The Lara Carlson Story WORDs Marla Cantrell images courtesy Lara Carlson

BY THE TIME LARA CARLSON WAS EIGHT YEARS OLD, she was a member of the Chambers 4-H Club in Alma, Arkansas. Lara’s family lived on a horse and cattle ranch just north of town, and she had an affinity for horses. She credits 4-H for her ease in public speaking, her talent for photography, her precision in keeping detailed records. These skills would come into play much later when Lara developed a love of scrapbooking. “I learned a lot in 4-H, first at Chambers and then at New Horizons 4-H. Even giving speeches and knowing what you’re going to say before you get up before a crowd helped. I thought of that when I spoke to a group of about a hundred people in Texas about scrapbooking years later.” In high school, she met her future husband, Chester Carlson. He was a teen pilot and had an air of adventure about him. The two were young, eighteen and nineteen when they married, but they didn’t want to wait. The whole world was just outside their door, and they were prepared to conquer it. “We knew we wanted to grow and change together,” Lara said. For a while, it was Lara’s dream to become a physician. She applied for medical school, but the timing wasn’t right. Much later, when their youngest of three was in kindergarten, her husband decided to give it a try. By then, the couple had been through enough to make medical school seem less daunting. At eighteen years of age, Chester had joined the Air National Guard, risen to officer status, and in the years that followed, had done everything from piloting to serving in the security detail for the Space Shuttle during the tense period after 9/11. Dr. Chester Carlson now works in the private sector, in Emergency Medicine. After years of traveling with the military, the couple returned to Alma to raise their family. When their daughter was in kindergarten, and their oldest of two sons was one year old, Lara met a woman who would write the next chapter of her life. “Miss Marilyn was our neighbor, and she scrapbooked. She invited me to learn, and I really enjoyed it,” Lara said.

Lara Carlson and granddaughter

Scrapbooking reminded Lara of those records she kept in 4-H. There were always notes attached, there were always photographs to support her narrative. As a young mom, she wondered if she’d retain all the precious things her children said, all the tiny moments that made their family theirs.

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“You think you’ll always remember, but you won’t,” Lara said. “Every day you’re living is a story. It’s hard to capture it all.” That didn’t stop Lara from trying. She collected the details of the day and turned them into scrapbooks—part journal, part photo album. Every year of her family’s life is recorded. Every vacation and special occasion. Today, she says her home library contains an encyclopedia of the Carlson family, a chronology of their life together. “My daughter will ask what year it was when she learned to do a certain thing, and I can pull the books from the shelf until we find it. My husband and I are big John Mayer fans. We were wondering when we first saw him in concert, and I looked it up.” It was twenty years ago, and Lara has the record to prove it. Somewhere between the third and fifth grades, each of the Carlson children studied foreign countries they wanted to visit and helped plan a trip there. As the family traveled, that child would work on their own scrapbook, with notes and photos and souvenirs like tickets or train schedules. Those trips turned out to be interactive learning experiences. Now that they’re grown, they can go to the family library, grab their scrapbook, and read their childhood thoughts and impressions, written in their own hand, complete with their comments on gelato in Italy. Complete with their adorable misspellings and sweet thoughts. One of their children’s notes from Cambridge, England, reads: We took a day trip to Cambridge University where famous scientists went to school. The photo on the following page shows the Carlsons’ son beneath a sign for St. Andrew the Great, a Church of England parish church. Still another page reads: We took a night train from Paris to Chamonix to go to Mt. Blanc. It’s over 15,000 ft. high! It’s no wonder there are so many scrapbooks in Lara’s library. With three kids, the oldest of whom is thirty-two, and an active lifestyle, she had a lot of material to work with. Chester taught all their children to fly, and he now owns a plane with one of his flying buddies. The Carlsons have backpacked through Europe. They scuba dive, and Chester and Lara are now learning to sail. But the most adventurous trip they’ve taken was when their

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oldest son married. “We went on a family honeymoon,” Lara

Lara on this venture, has become one of her best friends. And

said and laughed. The whole family traveled to Paris, Florence,

not just a friend. She helps Lara with her classes and retreats.

Rome. Then everyone but the bride and groom came home.

The two women are as close as family. How did it happen?

The newlyweds traveled on to Athens for five more days. The

Scrapbooking did that for them.

trip was so successful Lara expects they’ll try it again when the couple hits one of their big anniversaries. You might think Lara’s scrapbooking days are winding down, but she’s just getting started. She has two grandbabies now, and documenting their little lives has just begun. For a family reunion, Lara helped make scrapbooks for her mother and her nine siblings, who grew up in North Dakota. There were photos of them as children, as young adults, and of them today. In the books were birthdates and locations of the extended family so everyone could keep up. When Lara and Chester reached their twenty-fifth wedding anniversary, the kids threw a party. They invited old friends and family and had everyone write something to the couple. Those are now in a scrapbook with each of the letter writers’ pictures from the event. Since scrapbooking played such a big role in her family, it’s not surprising that Lara now works with Creative Memories, a scrapbooking company with offices in Minnesota, Japan,

DECEMBER 2023 EVENTS

and Australia. The company operates a little like the home

Free Crop Beginner’s class. Preregister to receive

business Pampered Chef, except with Creative Memories, you

a free Make and Take Project. Bring a friend and

also get to create scrapbooks at some of their events. All kinds

receive an extra gift!

of people show up. Some want to make a scrapbook of their

December 1: 10a-1p & December 7: 2p-4p

religious faith journey. Some want to put together a book

Awaken Coffee

of family genealogy. Some create books featuring their furry

4510 North Highway 71, Alma, Arkansas

family members. As young parents, so much is going on. Days are filled with

MARCH 2024 EVENTS

firsts. Even a baby’s grin will change from day to day. Capturing

Spring Scrapbook Retreat with Heart and

those images in book form does something exceptional in

Hand Memory Makers

the years to come. You look back and feel all those feelings

March 15-17

again, this time without the rush and bustle of your earlier life.

Lost Trails Ranch, Mulberry, Arkansas

Taking cellphone photos doesn’t matter if those images are

(15 minutes northeast of Alma)

lost when you get a new phone or your device crashes. And even if they’re not lost, they exist only in the ether. As Lara said, “Don’t let your babies grow up to be JPEGS.” Scrapbooking is wonderful for families, and the people who share the hobby can enrich your life. Miss Marilyn, who started

For more information or to preregister for events, contact Lara at carlson.lara@gmail.com.

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R E S TA U R A N T P R O F I L E

FORT SMITH COFFEE CO. Kaity and Gabe Gould first fell in love with the art of coffee roasting nearly twenty years ago while living abroad in Australia. There, Kaity held her first barista job that immersed her into the nuances of coffee from different parts of the world, expertly roasted to bring out their own unique flavor profile. That passion lay dormant for a spell as life took over, including relocating to the states and starting a family. But in 2014, noticing a dearth in third-wave coffee companies in Fort Smith, the couple launched Hawk and Horse Coffee Roasting Company, which became Fort Smith Coffee Co. They quickly shared their love for java with enough loyal customers to expand to two locations, with a third in the works. “We focus our energy on the full customer experience, tapping into all of the senses,” Kaity says. “We don’t operate with drive-throughs, we’re not fast-food coffee. We invite people into our spaces for them to hear, see and smell what we do.” Fort Smith Coffee Co. invests in every step of the coffee art form, beginning with selecting where the beans come from, then roasting the raw beans themselves, to achieve the desired flavor and aroma. The result is in every cup, telling a story of a different part of the coffee-growing world. “Coffee has different flavor undertones depending on where it was grown, soil, climate and a lot of other factors,” Kaity says. “We roast single-origin coffees and it’s neat to be able to taste the differences based on where it’s grown, whether it’s Ethiopian or Guatemalan. We really like to stay focused on the product quality; since we roast our own coffee, we have a lot more control over time and temperature of the roast profiles.” The attention to detail extends to other elements of the beverages and food available in the cafes. Kaity says the company makes its own flavored syrups in-house and all the pastries are similarly made from scratch. Those ingredients that aren’t made in-house, such as the Harvest Moon bread used in sandwiches, are sourced as locally as possible. “I’m a foodie and I think you need really good food if you’re having really good coffee,” Kaity says. “We’ve had the same head baker for almost six years, and we have three assistant bakers, one of whom is my sister-in-law. They’re all very talented. We really try to focus on consistency in baking and food prep. We want to offer the highest quality of products, whether it’s food or drink because I think they complement each other.” In 2024, they will focus on not only opening a third cafe but expanding other service offerings to local businesses. This includes mobile barista catering, white label coffee roasting, coffee delivery services and more. As their business grows, they will continue investing in the community and providing plentiful jobs for coffee and food service professionals. DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

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R E S TA U R A N T P R O F I L E

Room dry rub, or the Trash Can, for the ultimate in toppings and taste. Customers must be 21 to dine-in, but families can order off the pizza menu at either Neumeier’s Whippoorwill or the Rib Room.

PAPA’S, RIB ROOM & WHIPPOORWILL

Speaking of Rib Room, look no further than here for the best

When it comes to great food in a relaxed, come-as-you-are setting,

succulent barbecue and delicious made-from-scratch sides. The

you can’t beat this trio of Fort Smith restaurants: the legendary

ribs are award-winning and the pulled pork shoulder, chicken,

Papa’s Pub & Pizzaria; the equally famous Neumeier ’s Rib Room

brisket and pork loin are also not to be missed. Get the meat on a

& Beer Garden; and Neumeier ’s Whippoorwill Restaurant,

platter or in a sandwich and pair it with delicious sides headlined

specializing in home-cooked Southern favorites.

by BBQ beans, creamy coleslaw and cheesy hash browns.

“We are honored to have served Fort Smith for as long as we have,”

The newest of the triplets – Neumeier ’s Whippoorwill Restaurant

says Joseph Neumeier, proprietor. “Among our three restaurants

– offers homestyle family recipes for a hearty meal that will remind

we offer a little something for everybody, all served with a smile in

you of Grandma’s house. Among the comfort food entrees are

a great atmosphere.”

Mimi’s meat loaf, chicken fried steak and Garrison Swiss chicken. Or choose one of the great burgers or sandwiches accompanied

For decades, Papa’s Pub & Pizzaria has specialized in, as the

by your choice of fresh cut fries or house made chips.

restaurant’s motto reads, “ The best darn pizza in Fort Smith— perhaps the world,” each one handmade and served bubbling from

Whatever the occasion, the Neumeier family of restaurants is

the oven. Try the Goob’s Special, which takes their pepperoni pizza

ready to serve any appetite for lunch or dinner. As Joseph says,

and adds more on top along with a sprinkle of Neumeier’s Rib

“Come see us real soon!”

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R E S TA U R A N T P R O F I L E

and served alongside fresh and creative side dishes that elevate familiar flavors. The same attention to detail is paid to Uncork’d’s delectable brunch featuring entrées such as crab cakes, a wagyu

UNCORK’D

patty melt, and the specialty of the house shrimp and grits. One

A dining experience unlike anything else in the region, Uncork’d

Valley return to Uncork’d again and again.

bite and you’ll understand why guests from all over the River

offers its clientele outstanding food and attentive service in an atmosphere of casual elegance. “We strive to exceed our

“Our menu is second to none,” Scott says. “Our chef and kitchen

customers’ expectations,” says owner and veteran restaurateur

staff are continuously reinventing classic dishes to provide

Scott Clark. “Our menu features creative, delicious fare skillfully

something novel and different. No matter how many times you’ve

prepared from the finest ingredients available. Our dining room

been our guest, there’s always something new to try.”

offers a stunning setting for a memorable night out with friends, Attentive and welcoming without ever being overbearing, the front

or that special someone.”

of house staff take pride in delivering a memorable experience Whatever the occasion calls for, you’ll find Uncork’d offers

each time, every time.

amenitie usually found in high-end restaurants in much larger cities. A wall of wine machines, a bourbon tap, a clean-air cigar

“We strive to treat each customer like an honored guest in our

room, patio dining, live music and forty craft beers on tap just

home,” Scott says. “Our customers are everything to us, without

scratch the surface of the unexpected extras offered here. The

them we wouldn’t be here. From the regulars we see often to those

chef-inspired cuisine is exceptional, from the tapas to the full

checking us out for the first time, everyone is given the five-star

plates. Amazing steaks, chops and seafood are expertly prepared

treatment. We hope to see you tonight for dinner.”

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Sugar ON TOP

WORDs Marla Cantrell images courtesy Harvest Moon Artisan Bakery, Berry Sweet Bakery, Paul’s Bakery

In the grand scheme of things, what’s the importance of a custom birthday cake? Or the relevance of one perfect Christmas cookie shaped like a poinsettia? What about a donut bought on a Saturday morning? Or a cherry pie in a white cardboard box, ready to be the finale at a family dinner? For many of us, local bakeries hold the memories of our childhoods and mark the special occasions of our family. While we know what those bakeries mean to us, what about the people who own them? Turns out, they share a pretty sweet story.

Harvest Moon Artisan Bakery Fort Smith, Arkansas When Harvest Moon Artisan Bakery started in 2016, it was a delivery service with big plans. The Mastropaolo trio: Sarah, her brother Aaron, and Aaron’s wife Desirae worked hard making sourdough bread, Challah bread, pies, rolls, macarons. Sarah and Aaron had grown up in a big Italian household where food was love. Desirae’s mother is French, and she and Sarah visited the country, falling in love with the bakeries there. When customers in Fort Smith sampled Harvest Moon’s products, they said what they tasted was nostalgia. On this Sunday, Sarah is scraping batter out of a mixing bowl, her red hair in braids, a kerchief on. She looks rosy Sarah, Aaron and Desirae

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and happy. A cinnamon roll, sitting in the display case, is the size of a dinner plate, and smells like Heaven. Nearby are the Halos, a combination of croissant and donut. On a tall shelf is Cranberry Pecan Bread. Soon there will be take-home cookie kits for Christmas and Turtle Tarts. Each recipe is their own, and they’re proud of their results. Sarah is also happy with the strong relationship she has with her brother and sister-in-law. While her goal is to have a stress-free workplace, it’s not always possible. “Last week, three batches of bread failed,” Sarah says and shrugs. “It’s just bread,” she says philosophically. At a nearby table, another baker is rolling out dough. Sarah says, “We couldn’t do any of it without the great people who help us.” They still do local deliveries, serving local residential customers every Thursday. I stop by regularly to pick up sourdough bread. Since I tried it in 2017, I haven’t used any other kind. It’s that good!

CRANBERRY PECAN ROLLS recipe Harvest Moon Bakery 1 Cup water 1 Tbsp. yeast 3 Cups bread flour 1 tsp. salt ¼ Cup sugar 1 ½ Tbsp. vegetable oil 1 tsp. vanilla ½ Cup pecans, chopped ½ Cup cranberries, dried In a stand mixer combine yeast and water. Add flour, sugar, salt, vanilla, and oil, mixing with a dough hook on medium speed until dough is smooth and pulls away cleanly from the sides of the bowl. Turn mixer to low, add pecans and cranberries until just incorporated. Cover and let sit until doubled in size, about an hour. Divide dough into twelve pieces and roll into balls. Place rolls into a 9 x 9 baking pan and let the dough double in size again. Bake in a 350° oven for 15 to 18 minutes, or until golden brown.

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Berry Sweet Bakery Fort Smith, Arkansas Miriam Correa, who opened Berry Sweet Bakery in October 2023, comes by her talent naturally. Her father, now retired, opened Fort Smith’s Los Canastos Bakery in 2004 (now owned by Miriam’s older sister). “Los Canastos basically translated is the baskets,” Miriam says. “My dad was a baker in his hometown in Mexico. He would deliver bread on a bike.” Miriam holds her hands to either side of her head and says, “He’d have a basket on his head that fit like a hat, and inside would be the bread. He’d go around town yelling, ‘Bread delivery.’ “I like to say that I was born with a piece of bread in my hand,” Miriam says and laughs. “All I’ve ever known is baking. I started decorating cakes at nine or ten years old. After that, I was the ‘Cake Girl.’ Every cake recipe was passed down to me. My sister taught me, and I loved it.” Miriam is grateful that she and her sister are walking in their father’s footsteps. A customer walks in just then, in the market for one treat. She leaves with her arms full. Inside the display cases are cupcakes, cake cups (slices of cake and frosting in a takeaway cup), cheesecakes made from a family recipe, macarons, brownies. Berry Sweet’s best-sellers are the Chunky Cookies, giant, delicious cookies that can’t be eaten in one sitting. Trust me, I tried. But the Chocolate Chip Walnut Chunky Cookie won. There’s always next time!

Miriam Correa

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FAVORITE CINNAMON ROLLS recipe Berry Sweet Bakery FOR THE ICING

FOR THE DOUGH

1 ½ Cups cream cheese

2 ¼ tsp. yeast

2 Cups powdered sugar

1 Cup milk

1 tsp. vanilla

½ Cup sugar

pinch of salt

4 Cups all-purpose flour, +/- ½ cup if needed

FOR THE FILLING

6 Tbsp. unsalted butter, softened

1 stick unsalted butter, softened

1 tsp. salt

½ Cup brown sugar, packed

2 large eggs

½ Cup granulated sugar 3 Tbsp. ground cinnamon Warm milk to 100° in microwave, not to exceed 105° (yeast can ruin). Combine 1 Tablespoon milk, yeast, and 1 teaspoon sugar. Stir, let sit for 5 minutes. In a stand mixer bowl, stir to combine flour, butter, salt, eggs, yeast mixture, remaining milk, and sugar. Knead dough with dough hook attachment on medium speed until dough ball forms. Dough should be completely smooth, if not, add more flour. Place dough in greased bowl, shape into a ball, cover with towel. Let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size. With dough on floured surface shape into a rectangle, roll out to 18 x 12, ¼-inch thick. Combine filling ingredients in small bowl, set aside. Spread butter over dough, then sprinkle filling over the top. Roll into a log, slice into 12 rolls. Preheat oven to 350°. Place rolls in greased 9 x 13-inch pan, cover with towel and let sit 30 minutes, until almost doubled in size. Bake 14-17 minutes, until golden, check them often. While rolls are baking, combine icing ingredients in small bowl, set aside. Remove rolls from oven, cool, top with cream cheese icing. DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

people

Paul’s Bakery Van Buren, Arkansas Lisa Abner, who owns Paul’s Bakery with three of her siblings, has been on her feet for eight hours. Asked if she minds, she shakes her head no. “I never get tired of this,” she says. “We have people come in now whose parents were our customers. We have brides bring in pictures of the wedding cake my dad did for their parents, who want us to duplicate the design for them.” Paul Lehnen opened the bakery in 1959. “Dad had a big, old rotating oven that was an antique. He used to ice the cupcakes by hand. On the holidays, especially, I’d be there icing cupcakes.” There are people who’ve had every birthday cake of their lives from Paul’s. Wedding cakes, communion cakes, graduation cakes. Even today, there are those who stop by to talk about Paul, who passed away in 2012. “We’re a family here, and our

Lisa Abner

employees become family. Seeing customers who’ve come to Dad for more than fifty years means a lot. It’s not just about what we serve; it’s so much more. Dad started hiring kids in high school and training them through a program at the them. He still calls to talk about my dad and how much my dad

LEFTOVER DONUT BREAD PUDDING

helped him. Dad was a family man, but that didn’t just mean

recipe Paul’s Bakery

his immediate family. He loved people, hearing their stories."

6 Cups leftover glazed donuts, cut into chunks

school. There’s a man who lives in New York who was one of

2 Tbsp. butter, melted My own grandmother knew about Paul’s dream of owning a

4 eggs, slightly beaten

bakery in Van Buren, and once he’d opened the doors, she

2 Cups milk

was a loyal customer. Say “birthday cake” to me, and I can

½ Cup sugar

only conjure up an image of a Paul’s Bakery cake, my name

1 tsp. cinnamon

written in pink icing. Christmas means Paul’s Bakery cookies,

1 tsp. vanilla

and I’m passing down that tradition. Preheat oven to 350°. Spray an 8 x 8-inch baking dish Lisa nods when I mention their Christmas cookies. They are

or 1-quart baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Add

wonders, from blue snowflakes to jolly Santas. Handmade, they

donut chunks then pour melted butter over top, mix

look as good as any wrapped present. “We have people who buy

lightly. In separate bowl, combine eggs, milk, sugar,

them and ship them all over the place. They’ll say, ‘I don’t care if

cinnamon, and vanilla and pour mixture over the donuts.

they do break, they’ll still be delicious.’”

Let donuts soak up wet mixture for 5 minutes, ensure that all donuts have soaked up some of the milk mixture.

It’s me. I’m one of those people, and it’s true. No one cares

Cover with foil, bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil, cook for

if they break. They just want to taste a Paul’s Bakery cookie.

25 more minutes. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. TIP: You can even freeze leftover donuts until you have enough to make this yummy treat!

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diy

T H E F O S E S ASON T N E C S DIY Catherine Frederick image zi3000/Shutterstock

This simmer pot recipe will invoke Christmas memories of friends and family gathered for the holidays. Perfect for the stovetop or Crockpot, you’ll want to keep it going long after the tinsel is gone.

INGREDIENTS • 4 large cinnamon sticks, broken

• ½ cup fresh cranberries

• 1 Tablespoon whole cloves

• 1 apple, sliced

• 1 Tablespoon whole allspice berries

• 1 orange, sliced

• 1 Tablespoon star anise

• rosemary or evergreen sprig (optional)

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METHOD Add all ingredients to 2 - 3 cups water in a saucepan or Crockpot. Simmer over low heat or heat in Crockpot on medium. Do not leave unattended! Add water as needed.

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taste

The Ugly Christmas Sweater RECIPe Catherine Frederick images Anastasia_Panait/Shutterstock

Santa called. He’s tired of cookies! Time for a new family tradition – Ugly Christmas Sweater cakes! Make it a friendly family competition. Bake your cakes ahead of time, set out various colors of icing, toppings, sprinkles, and let the fun begin!

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taste

GINGERBREAD B U N DT C A K E RECIPe adapted morethanmeatandpotatoes.com image Eugenia_Lytvyn/Shutterstock

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taste

INGREDIENTS

METHOD

for the cake

Preheat oven to 350°. Grease Bundt pan (10-12 cup). Combine flour, gingerbread

2 ½ Cups all-purpose flour

spice, salt, baking soda, and baking powder

2 Tbsp. gingerbread spice

in a large bowl, set aside.

½ tsp. salt ¼ tsp. baking soda

In a separate large bowl, beat butter and

1 tsp. baking powder 12 Tbsp. butter, unsalted, room temperature 1 ½ Cups dark brown sugar, packed 2 large eggs, room temperature ½ Cup molasses

sugar until light and fluffy. Add one egg at a time, mixing well and scraping the bowl between each. Add molasses, stir to combine. Add flour mixture to the wet mixture in 3-4

1 Cup water

increments, alternating with water, begin and end with flour. Mix until creamy.

for the glaze Cup rum

Add batter to pan and level the top. Bake

½ tsp. gingerbread spice

50-60 minutes or until tester comes out clean.

¾ Cup sugar Prepare glaze and frosting while cake is in the oven. For glaze, combine rum, gingerbread

for the frosting

spice, and sugar. Set aside. For frosting,

1 Cup powdered sugar 1-2 Tbsp. whole milk, plus more if needed 1 Tbsp. maple syrup rosemary sprigs, optional garnish

for the cranberries ½ Cup water

combine ingredients in small bowl, stirring to combine. For cranberries, combine ½ cup water and ½ cup sugar in a saucepan. Boil and let simmer on low for 3 minutes. Add cranberries, stir to coat for 1 minute. Remove with slotted spoon, place on parchment or cooling rack, let dry for 1 hour.

1 ½ Cups fine sugar, divided 3 Cups fresh cranberries

Remove cake from the oven, let cool for 10 minutes then turn it out onto a cooling rack. Brush cake with glaze, let cool completely. Once cooled, pour frosting over top, garnish with cranberries and sprigs of rosemary if desired.

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taste

cocoa with a KICK! words Catherine Frederick

Tired of the same old mug of cocoa? Kick it up a notch with our favorite new recipes! Heat ingredients on stove top until combined & pipping hot. Garnish with whipped cream, marshmallows, caramel topping, or a chocolate drizzle! Each recipe makes one mug.

minty cocoa 1 cup milk

1/2 cup chocolate chips

citrus cocoa 1 teaspoon peppermint extract

1 cup milk

spicy cocoa 1 cup milk

5oz. chopped dark chocolate

2oz. dark chocolate

peanut butter cup cocoa

1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

pinch cayenne

1 cup milk

1 teaspoon unsweetened dark cocoa

1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

1 teaspoon maple syrup

1/2 cup milk

1/2 cup chocolate chips

5oz. milk chocolate, chopped

1/4 cup heavy cream

3 Tablespoons caramel sauce

salted almond cocoa

lucky cocoa 1 cup milk

4oz. chocolate 1/4 cup creamy 1/2 cup heavy chopped peanut butter cream

caramel cocoa

pumpkin pie cocoa 1 cup milk

1/2 Tablespoon 1/2 Tablespoon orange zest sugar

2oz. Bailey’s® Irish Cream Liquor

1 cup milk

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1/2 cup chocolate chips

1oz. amaretto

pinch of sea salt

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taste

Sugar Cookie Martini RECIPe adapted thespruceeats.com image Rima Bondarenko/Shutterstock

Ingredients makes 2 •

3 ounces vanilla vodka

•

2 ounces amaretto

•

3 ounces Baileys Irish cream

•

4 ounces whole milk

•

1/8 tsp. almond extract

•

2 tsp. powdered sugar

•

sprinkles

•

store-bought vanilla frosting

Method Rim top outside edge of glasses with frosting, roll in sprinkles, set aside. In a shaker, combine vodka, amaretto, Baileys, milk, almond extract, powdered sugar, and ice. Shake vigorously to mix and chill. Strain into prepared glasses, serve!

Always drink responsibly. Never drink and drive.

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44 52

travel travel

‘Tis the Season to Words Catherine Frederick and courtesy Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism

Many communities in Arkansas began putting up their light displays and planning seasonal activities months ago, and now they are just waiting for you! More than fifty communities around our great state participate in timehonored traditions, offering everything from caroling, to tree and town lighting, to open houses, to parades and visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus. These are only a few of the communities taking part this year. More information can be found at Arkansas.com and we highly encouraged you to visit the Chamber websites for each city listed to ensure event information has not been changed.

images courtesy Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism

F O RT S M I T H Enjoy holiday markets, take a ride through thousands of lights on the Creekmore Holiday Express, tour window displays along Garrison Avenue, and help adorn Fort Smith National Cemetery with thousands of wreaths to honor veterans! Don't forget about all the holiday performances by the Fort Smith Symphony, Western Arkansas Ballet, Fort Smith Little Theatre, Community School of the Arts, and more!

G R E E N W OO D The Trail of Lights features more than 140 displays which adorn Bell Park with thousands of LED lights in Greenwood! There

B E N TO N V I LL E

are several events scheduled at the Ed Wilkinson Pavilion at

Holiday lights will illuminate the square through New Year's

Bell Park throughout the month of December. Discover them

Day. Lights on the Square are on from dusk until dawn.

all at greenwoodarkansas.com.

Continuing in the holiday spirit, the DBI annual Christmas parade starts at 11am on December 9.

H OT S P R I N G S Hot Springs festoons its historic downtown with lights, while

B LY T H E V I LL E

Garvan Woodland Gardens shines with more than four million

This is one of the largest light displays in the northeast

lights throughout seventeen acres. The most celebrated

corner of Arkansas. The Lights of the Delta are Blytheville’s

outdoor light display in Arkansas for the holiday season runs

contribution, with over six million sparklers and more than

through December 31. No pets allowed. Tickets are required

fifty-six major motion displays that illuminate the 1.5-mile

and patrons are encouraged to purchase in advance.

drive surrounded by lakes and trees.

PA R I S

CO N WAY

The city of Paris will light more than 100,000 sparkling lights

Chick-fil-A Illuminate features a Ferris wheel, mini-train

and features the only Eiffel Tower in Arkansas. Meet the Grinch

rides for kids, live music, a food truck, horse-drawn carriage

at the Paris Square on December 15 starting at 5pm. Enjoy the

rides, photo opportunities with an oversized snowman and

magical downtown, have your photo with the Grinch and Santa

gingerbread man, and, of course, a visit from Santa Claus!

and enjoy cookies and cocoa from Farmer's Bank & Trust.

FAY ET T E V I LL E

VA N B U R E N

Enjoy the treasured celebration of holiday lights on Downtown

Jump on the Holiday Pajama Train! For a schedule and ticket

Square each evening from 5pm to 1am. Entertainment, hot

prices, call A & M Railroad at 800.687.8600 or visit amrailroad.

beverages, and festive holiday music make the Lights of the

com. This year's Downtown Christmas Parade’s theme is

Ozarks an event that cannot be missed. More than 500,000

"Holiday in Whoville" and is free to attend!

lights will remain on through December 31. DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

travel

CO N WAY

F O RT S M I T H B E N TO N V I LL E

FAY ET T E V I LL E

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travel

H OT S P R I N G S

B LY T H E V I LL E

VA N B U R E N

PA R I S

These are only a few of the communities taking part this year. More information can be found at Arkansas.com. We’d love to see photos of your Christmas lights! Send them to editors@dosouthmagazine. We’ll share as many as we can through social media. DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

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travel

CLIMB HIGHER WORDs and images Bob Robinson

Remember when you were a kid and how much fun it was to play on the jungle gym at the park? The challenge of the monkey bars where the interconnection of the vertical and horizontal bars offered unlimited options for scrambling across the structure. You gripped your small hands around one of the lower bars to get started, then pulled yourself up to clamber across the complex configuration. Reaching the summit, panting heavily, you paused for a moment to enjoy the lofty view and bask in the feeling of accomplishment. Then you climbed to the ground to repeat the process over and over, because no two routes were ever the same. Did you know there is an adult equivalent to the jungle gym? It’s known as rock climbing. And, as a bonus, now there are no grownups telling you what you can and cannot do.

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travel

CLIMB INTO THE GYM Mention rock climbing to most people, and they picture someone hanging by one arm from a sheer rock face hundreds of feet off the ground. That is the extreme upper tier of the activity. Never fear, there are many levels to the sport, each of which offers a unique, physical outlet for all to enjoy. Each level helps build a strong mind-body connection, as you seek a solution to the vertical puzzle of a climb. If the idea of revisiting the playground days appeals to you, a good place to begin your adventure is to visit a climbing gym. Vertical Horizons Climbing Gym, located in Fort Smith, offers a climbing playground for all ages. Owner, Jerry Barnett, has programs to meet the needs of every skill level, from beginner to expert. He also provides the needed equipment for newbies to try climbing before investing in the purchase of their own. When visiting Vertical Horizons, Jerry or one of his skilled assistants will set you up with the basics and have you climbing within minutes. Whether it is bouldering or rope climbing, you’ll receive the necessary information and safety procedures to make it a memorable experience on your first day of climbing. If you would like to advance beyond entry-level, they offer one-on-one training and classes to “show you the ropes.” From first-time climbers to seasoned vets, they will help you advance to the next level. Climbing is all about community, especially in a gym environment. Organized birthday parties, summer camps, and scheduled competitions offer opportunities to gather and make new friends, all while getting a full-body workout. Many never go beyond the climbing gym with the sport. With the constantly changing routes, they find enough challenges to keep them returning to the gym. For others, the gym is a convenient environment to hone their skills for their next excursion to the rock.

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travel

TAKE IT TO THE ROCK Tell someone you are planning a multi-day rock climbing adventure, and some will instantly think you are taking a road trip, with Nevada, California, Utah, or other western states normally thought of as the climbing mecca. However, many Arkansans are unaware of the plethora of great climbing environments in our state. There are enough established climbing destinations within the Natural State to fill a book! As a matter of fact, there is a book listing these rock-climbing destinations, Rock Climbing Arkansas, by Cole Fennel, and I highly recommend it to anyone who plans to expand climbing beyond the gym. The undisputed flagship for climbing in the state is Horseshoe Canyon Ranch (HCR) near Jasper. The Ranch, as many refer to it, is a fully functioning dude ranch. It just so happens to include over 450 established climbing routes on the sheer rock bluffs that enclose this picturesque canyon. Offering camping and rental cabins it makes for an inviting vacation destination. HCR also hosts one of the country's premier endurance rock climbing events in late September, 24 Hours of Horseshoe Hell, which has attracted climbers from across the globe, including celebrity climbers such as Alex Honnold, the subject of the movie Free Solo, which documented the first-ever free solo climb of Yosemite’s El Capitan. No doubt about it, HCR is a great place to climb. However, climbers in the River Valley don’t have to make the nearly three-hour drive to reach a fun climbing scene. Cole’s book lists half a dozen climbing venues within an hour’s drive of Fort Smith. Of those listed, Fern is by far my favorite destination. Cole believes what sets Fern apart from other areas is the excellent selection of well-bolted moderate climbing routes.

Vertical Horizon’s owner Jerry Barnett is the person to thank

With routes being only thirty to forty feet in height, Fern is

for Fern’s over 150 well-bolted climbs. Keep an eye out for

the perfect next step for climbers wanting to expand their

the book he has in the works with maps and information on

adventure beyond the gym. For those who are not quite ready

climbing in Fern. Until the book is published, you can go to his

to lead a climb, the peak for several routes can be reached

website, fernclimbing.com, for details on the area.

via a short hike. You can then set anchors at the top and run a rope through them back down to the climber. This method

Rock climbing is just one more reason that I am thankful to be

of top roping provides a safe, secure process for beginners

living in the Natural State. Rock climbing may not be for everyone,

that guards against a fall. Climbing routes are featured on

but that may only be because not everyone has tried it!

both bluffs of the scenic narrow gorge that created the gulley. During the hot summer months, climbers seek shaded eastern walls to avoid the heat. In the fall and winter, they welcome the warmth of the sun, climbing on the western bluff.

Vertical Horizons Gym 3625 S. 91st, Fort Smith | verticalhorizonsclimbinggym.com

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

2023

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE Searching for the perfect gift this holiday season? We’re happy to be Santa’s little helpers! No matter who or what you’re shopping for, these local small businesses in our community are ready to help wrap up the perfect gift for everyone on your list!

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

479.648.3483 6121 South Zero Street, Fort Smith, Arkansas burtonpools.com

Need a gift and want it delivered? How about having your 4

Looking for the perfect gift for your family this Christmas?

Corks order delivered to your door? Do both with our new

How about more family time? There aren't many purchases

delivery service from Drizly! Simply download the Drizly app,

that can truly change everything about your family's routine,

place your order, select the delivery location, date, and time,

but a Hot Spring hot tub from Burton Pools & Spas is one

and we’ll do the rest! Our carefully curated selection of wines,

of them! Building a strong sense of connection with your

spirits, and craft beers spans the globe, offering a diverse range

loved ones requires spending quality time with one another

of tastes and experiences. Whether it’s the rich complexity of

regularly and with as few distractions as possible. When you

a fine Bordeaux, the smooth elegance of aged whiskey, or

have a Hot Spring hot tub from Burton Pools & Spas, everyone

the hoppy notes from microbrews, we have something for

in your home can enjoy an invigorating soak together and

everyone! Celebrate the holidays with the finest libations from

focus on each other. Visit Burton Pools & Spas to give the gift

4 Corks Wine & Spirits. Drive-thru opens at 8:30am!

of spending family time in a hot tub.

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479.310.8444 8000 South Zero Street, Fort Smith, Arkansas Find them on Facebook

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

479.785.3277 7200 Cameron Park Drive, Fort Smith, Arkansas centerforhearing.net

479.420.4008 4300 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Arkansas hummingbird-boutique-fort-smith.myshopify.com The holiday season is here! We invite you to experience

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the joy and magic of Christmas with us. Embrace the spirit Please join our Christmas Give Back program to help bring

of giving and create lasting memories with our curated

Christmas joy to local nursing home residents! Like the well-

selections! From cozy winter essentials to unique stocking

known Angel Tree program, it’s a small but significant way we

stuffers, we have something special for everyone on your

can help some of our elderly population feel loved this season.

list. Transform your home into a winter wonderland with

Anyone in our community can stop by Center for Hearing and

our stunning holiday décor. Adorn your space with the

Balance, choose a stocking, purchase gifts, and bring them to

warm glow of our specialty candles, adorable ornaments,

us to wrap and deliver. If you would like to participate, please

and timeless decorations that capture the essence of

stop by, or call to see how you can help! We also know the

the season. Shop Hummingbird Boutique and make this

holidays can be challenging for people with hearing loss. Let us

Christmas truly special. We can't wait to share the holiday

help conversations be enjoyable again with customized hearing

spirit with you. Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a joyful

solutions. Give or receive the gift of better hearing today!

shopping experience!

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479.769.2991 8819 Rogers Avenue, Ste. C Fort Smith, Arkansas Find us on Facebook and Instagram

479.471.9315 816 Main Street, Van Buren, Arkansas chaptersonmain.com

Christmas season is in full swing, and it is our favorite time of

Alison Goodwin purchased this charming shop, located

the year! This is our second Christmas in Fort Smith, and we

in Historic Downtown Van Buren, in January of 2023. She

are so excited. The store is filled to the brim with Christmas

is committed to bringing the same high-level service and

décor for the inside and outside of your home including

products that our communities have been accustomed to for

oversized Christmas ornaments, Nativity scenes, and even

eight years! A locally owned independent bookstore, they

everyone’s favorite, the Grinch! We have hundreds of unique

offer best-sellers, rare book finds, and thousands of quality

gift ideas for those on your Christmas list such as locally

used books. They’re also an award-winning coffee shop

hand-poured candles in rustic bowls, decorated nutcrackers

serving Onyx coffee, Savoy teas, and other specialty drinks.

inspired by a local artisan, Christmas apparel and jewelry, and

There's room to sit and stay awhile as you visit with friends,

much more! Gift certificates are also available! Follow us on

study, or dive into your new favorite book. Can't find the

Facebook and Instagram for updates and store hours. Visit

books you're looking for at the shop? Order from their online

Meregold during our Christmas Era!

store, and they will be delivered straight to your door.

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naturalstateskin.com hello@naturalstateskin.com Instagram & Facebook: naturalstateskincare

479.452.2140 5622 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Arkansas johnmaysjewelers.com

It’s time to find the unique loved one in your life something

The holidays have arrived! We cherish the opportunities to

different for their stocking this year. What better way than

see old friends and spend quality time with our families and

to purchase selfcare that allows them to care for themselves

loved ones. We invite you to view our new VELA collection

all year long. The Natural State Skincare Co. handmakes

before December 15, try on your favorite styles, and enter for

beautifully affordable small-batch skincare with ingredients

your chance to win $25,000 in Hearts On Fire Jewelry! We

that are as clean as possible, utilizing a variety of ingredients

are also very excited to host our annual Holiday Open House

that are plant-based, natural or naturally derived, and organic.

on Friday, December 15, from 10am - 6pm, and on Saturday,

With gifts that range from facial cleansers and serums to

December 16, from 10am - 5pm. We cannot wait to visit with

body scrubs and lotions, to hair oil and shampoo, you will

you in-person this holiday season, it is truly our pleasure to

have a range of goodies to grab up for your loved one, your

serve you. From the Mays family to yours, we wish you a very

whole family, or even yourself!

Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year!

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

479.883.1599 7225 Chad Colley Blvd., Barling, Arkansas polkadottedzebraboutique.com

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

479.242.2442 7805 Phoenix Avenue, Fort Smith, Arkansas passmoreplasticsurgery.com

Welcome to the Polka-Dotted Zebra, a whimsical children's In this season of giving, consider giving yourself something

boutique that captivates the hearts of parents and little ones

special – something to boost your confidence and help you

alike! Nestled in the heart of The Village at Heritage, our

start the New Year with a new attitude. Call to schedule

boutique is a haven for families seeking exceptional style,

a consultation with Dr. Ann Passmore. Whether you are

quality, and uniqueness for their little ones. With a curated

interested in fillers and injectables, superior skin care

selection of clothing, toys, and accessories, Polka-Dotted

products, an in-office procedure, or cosmetic surgery to

Zebra transforms shopping into a delightful experience.

enhance and reshape, give yourself a special gift to fit your

From sought-after apparel brands to the most imaginative

needs and your budget.

toys, every item in our store is handpicked for its charm and durability. At Polka-Dotted Zebra, we celebrate the magic of childhood, ensuring your little ones look and feel their best on every adventure!

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

479.437.6096 7225 Chad Colley Boulevard, Barling, Arkansas poshfortsmith.com

314 Lexington Avenue, Fort Smith, Arkansas 479.649.3435 salonelements.com Santa shops here! Salon Elements is your go-to salon for

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dimensional hair coloring, blonding, silvering, balayage, POSH is now open! From the moment you arrive, you'll be

vivid color, keratin treatments, blowouts, extensions, lash

immersed in an atmosphere of elegance and refinement.

and brow services, wigs, and men’s barbering. Schedule a

Prepare to indulge in the ultimate pampering experience where

massage in our new, state-of-the-art, full-body massage chair

your well-being is our top priority. Let us ignite your senses with

for a deep, natural massage, complete with heat therapy

luxury, innovation, and clinical excellence like never before! At

and compression technology! Need a medical pedicure? Our

Posh Aesthetics & Wellness, we are dedicated to helping you

licensed Medical Nail Technician provides corrective services

look and feel your very best. Our range of services make the

to restore natural nail growth, revert chronic nail issues, as

perfect gift for anyone on your list this holiday season and gift

well as specialized diabetic foot care. She also offers state-

certificates are available! Whether you're looking for aesthetic

of-the-art nail restoration, Reflexology and Bowen-based

services, laser treatments, or IV therapy, our experienced,

soft tissue work, as well as clay therapy for detoxification to

professional team is here to provide top-notch care for you

assist in restoring the natural balance to feet and ankles. Gift

and the ones you love. Merry Christmas!

certificates available! Visit us today!

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

479.783.8013 5401 Phoenix Avenue, Fort Smith, Arkansas mysodies.com Sodie’s Wine & Spirits wants to make this the easiest holiday season ever! Our mobile app allows you to search our inventory, drop your favorite products in your virtual cart and pick them up at our drive thru. We also have custom gift baskets available and unique gift items for everyone on your list. Call or come by and tell us what items you would like in your gift basket, and we can make it special for you. From corporate gifts to stocking stuffers, Sodie’s has you covered!

479.452.2020 2401 South Waldron Road, Fort Smith, Arkansas stileseyegroup.com Exceptional eyewear, innovative eyecare. Dr. Steven Stiles and Dr. Camille Friday are committed to providing expert care utilizing state-of-the-art technology to provide the best optical solutions for you and your family. Celebrate in style this Christmas and give the gift of better vision with beautiful, top-quality optical frames and sunglasses. Stiles Eye Group offers a symphony of styles from top brands such as Oliver Peoples, Robert Marc, Lunor, FACE a FACE, Lindberg, Modo, Tom Ford, and more! From minimalist to glamourous and edgy, the experts at Stiles Eye Group can help select a frame best suited for your face shape and personality. Quality, professionalism, and expertise are to

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be found at Stiles Eye Group!

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

479.452.2140 | 5622 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith johnmaysjewelers.com