PRIDE - Do South March 2025 by Do South Magazine

SPRING FORWARD

BBring on spring! After the snow and the bitter cold temps, I am ready for warm sunshine and the sense of renewal and excitement that comes about this time of year!

We begin this issue by highlighting several upcoming events that support noteworthy causes, including the General Darby Challenge, Wine and Roses Gala, and Fort Smith Noon Exchange Club’s 82nd Annual Book of Golden Deeds Banquet and 100th Anniversary Celebration. I am also thrilled to share our annual Legal Leaders profiles, celebrating the integrity and dedication of local attorneys who not only uphold the law but also contribute significantly to the fabric of our community.

MARCH 2025

FOUNDERPUBLISHER - EDITOR

Catherine Frederick

COPY EDITING

Charity Chambers

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Artifex 323 – Jessica Meadors

PHOTOGRAPHY

Jade Graves Photography

In this edition, we spotlight local entrepreneurs Kaity and Gabe Gould, owners of Fort Smith Coffee Co. Their passion for coffee, sparked in Australia, has evolved into a thriving local enterprise that not only offers stellar brew but also fosters community connections. We delve into the world of Mike Hart, owner of 5 Star Productions, revealing how a local Fort Smith company achieves national acclaim in video production, and affirming that big dreams do indeed thrive in small towns.

We continue with local artists who utilize natural materials to enhance our daily environments with beauty and intention, a vibrant celebration of Arkansas' rich cultural tapestry. Additionally, we discover the transformative efforts of John 3:16 Ministries, a compelling narrative of redemption and community impact. And, of course, our beloved ninth annual Locally Owned Guide, showcasing businesses like a family-owned jeweler, unique gift shops, medical experts, and lively cafes.

As you read this month's issue, I hope you share in the pride I feel. The stories we present aren’t just articles; they are chapters in the ongoing story of our community—a tale of growth, resilience, and connection. Your continued support as readers and advertisers helps us keep the stories of our vibrant community alive!

CONTRIBUTING

WRITERS

Catherine Frederick Dwain Hebda

Sara Putman

Bob Robinson

ADVERTISING

Catherine Frederick 479.782.1500

catherine@dosouthmagazine.com

MARCH EVENTS

MARCH 1, 6P / THINKTRINITY.ORG

MARDI GRAS MASQUERADE GALA

*BenefittingTrinityCatholicMiddleSchool

Hardscrabble Country Club, Fort Smith

MARCH 1, 7P / FORTSMITHSYMPHONY.ORG

FSS PRESENTS ROMANTIC JOURNEYS

ArcBest Performing Arts, Fort Smith

MARCH 1-2 / VANBUREN.ORG

VBFAC PRESENTS HARRY POTTER

THE CURSED CHILD

Van Buren Fine Arts Center

MARCH 2, 12-5P / FACEBOOK

MARDI GRAS FESTIVAL

AJ’s Oyster House, Fort Smith

MARCH 4, 7P / KINGOPERAHOUSE.COM

TAKE 3 "WHERE ROCK MEETS BACH"

King Opera House, Van Buren

MARCH 6-8 / GROWINGKIDSSALE.COM

GROWING KIDS SALE

Kay Rodgers Park, Fort Smith

MARCH 6-9 / GREATAMERICANCONFERENCE.COM

GAC BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIPS

Southside High School, Fort Smith

MARCH 13-16 / CSAFORTSMITH.ORG

CSA PRESENTS CHICAGO

King Opera House, Van Buren

MARCH 15, 7:30P / WALTONARTSCENTER.ORG

KEB' MO' X SHAWN COLVIN

Walton Arts Center, Fort Smith

MARCH 15-19 / VANBUREN.ORG

RIDE THE TRAIN VAN BUREN TO WINSLOW

Train Depot, Van Buren

MARCH 18-23 / WALTONARTSCENTER.ORG

FUNNY GIRL

Walton Arts Center, Fort Smith

MARCH 18, 7P / TICKETMASTER.COM

THE GREAT GATSBY BALLET

ArcBest Performing Arts, Fort Smith

MARCH 19, 7:30P / TICKETMASTER.COM

SHEN YUN PERFORMING ARTS

ArcBest Performing Arts, Fort Smith

MARCH 20 / AACLIVE.COM

AACLIVE! PRESENTS HUDOST

801 Media Center, Fort Smith

MARCH 28, 6P / KINGOPERAHOUSE.ORG

$5 MOVIE NIGHT: MULAN

King Opera House, Van Buren

MARCH 28, 8P / SIMMONSBANKARENA.COM

FANTASIA & ANTHONY HAMILTON

Simmons Bank Arena, North Little Rock

MARCH 29, 7P / SIMMONSBANKARENA.COM

RASCAL FLATTS: LIFE IS A HIGHWAY TOUR

Simmons Bank Arena, North Little Rock

MARCH 29, 6P / WALTONARTSCENTER.ORG AN EVENING IN FLORENCE*BenefittingFSRAM

ACHE RIHWC, Fort Smith

APRIL 3-5 / SEBASTIANCOUNTYFAIR.COM

2ND ANNUAL CRAWFISH FESTIVAL Sebastian County Fairgrounds, Greenwood

APRIL 4 / FACEBOOK.COM

WINE & ROSES GALA

*BenefittingReynoldsCancerSupportHouse

APRIL 5, 5P / FORTSMITHSYMPHONY.ORG FSS PRESENTS

SYMPHONY ON THE GREEN

MARCH 7, 6P / BOST.ORG GRAPE ESCAPES

*BenefittingBost

ACHE RIHWC, Fort Smith

MARCH 8-9 / SIMMONSBANKARENA.COM

PBR: RUMBLE IN LITTLE ROCK

Simmons Bank Arena, North Little Rock

MARCH 12-16 / TICKETMASTER.COM

BACK TO THE FUTURE: THE MUSICAL

Robinson Center, Little Rock

MARCH 20-23 / SIMMONSBANKARENA.COM

DISNEY ON ICE PRESENTS

MICKEY'S SEARCH PARTY

Simmons Bank Arena, North Little Rock

MARCH 21. 6:30 & 8:30P / FEVERUP.COM

CANDLELIGHT CONCERT: TAYLOR SWIFT TRIBUTE

US Marshals Museum, Fort Smith

MARCH 27, 6P / KINGOPERAHOUSE.ORG

$5 MOVIE NIGHT: FORREST GUMP

King Opera House, Van Buren

UAFS Campus Green, Fort Smith

APRIL 10, 10A-2P / FORTSMITHSCHOOLS.ORG

EDUCATION FAIR & CAREER EXPO

Jeffrey-Glidewell Boys & Girls Club Fort Smith

APRIL 19, 8A-3P / SEBASTIANCOUNTYFAIR.COM

GREENWOOD CAR SHOW

Sebastian County Fairgrounds, Greenwood

ARTS ON MAIN –

VAN BUREN

ARTSONMAINVB.COM

Mondays: Partners in Art, 5p (ages 7+, $15 duo)

Wednesdays: 3D Art Class, 5p (ages 7-13, $20)

Mar. 1: Intro to Acrylics, 1p (ages 16+, $40)

Mar. 8: Sewing Machine Resist Shibori, 9a (ages 16+, $70)

Mar. 24-28: Short Film Workshop, 10a (ages 15-18, Free)

Mar. 28: Clouds on Canvas, 6p (ages 16+, $40)

Mar. 29: History of Photography, 11a (ages 15+, $10)

BOOKISH – FORT SMITH

BOOKISHFS.COM

Storytime: Saturdays, 11a

Mar. 3-4: YA Book Club, 4:30p

Mar. 6: Entrepreneurs’ Book Club, 12p

Mar. 7: Fort City Slam, 6p

Mar. 13: Stitch-a-Story Audiobook Club, 5:30p

Mar. 15: Author Event w/ Ginny Myers Sain, 1p

Mar. 20: Romance Book Club, 6p

Mar. 21-22: Stems & Stories, 6p ($50)

Mar. 27: Middle Grade Book Club, 4:30p

Mar. 28: Mostly Fiction Book Club, 6p

UNITED STATES

MARSHALS MUSEUM –FORT SMITH

USMMUSEUM.ORG/EVENTS

SPRING BREAK ACTIVITIES

2 sessions per day, 10a and 1p

Mar. 24: Morse Code Bracelets

Mar. 25: Kids Can Code Ozobots

Mar. 26: Story Cloth Storytelling

FORT SMITH REGIONAL

ART MUSEUM

FSRAM.ORG

RAM Saturdays: 12-3p (FREE)

Mar. 7: Artist Lecture with Jeffry Cantu, 5:30p (FREE)

Mar. 9, 23: Guided Tour Sundays, 1p (FREE)

Mar. 22: Shabana Kauser, Navigating the Art World, 3:30pm (FREE)

To April 27: Marjorie Williams-Smith, Memories in Metal

To April 27: Abstract Perspectives, Selections from Perm. Collection

To May 25: Student Art Exhibition, The North Side

To June 1: Jeffry Cantu, Sublime Abstractions

THE BAKERY DISTRICT – FORT SMITH

BAKERYFS.COM

Disc Golf: Tuesdays - Collection Room, 6p

Bingo: Tuesday - Mad Ox Bar, 6:30p

Trivia: Wednesday - Mad Ox Bar, 6:30p

Cornhole: WednesdaysCollection Room, 6:30p

Karaoke Night: Thursdays - Mad Ox Bar, 8p

Mar. 13: Jazz Jam - Collection Room, 6p

Mar. 15: Street Fest, 11a – 9p

Mar. 21: Bikes at the Bakery, 6p

Mar. 27: Segue - Cooler Room, 6:30p

Movie Night – Collection Room, 6:30p

UAFS ATHLETICS

UAFORTSMITHLIONS.COM

Mar. 1-2: Baseball vs. Newman, 1p

Mar. 7-9: Baseball vs. Univ. Central Missouri, 4p/1p/1p

Mar. 18-19: Women’s Tennis vs. Quincy, 11a

Mar. 24-25: Women’s Golf vs. Hardscrabble Invitational

ACHE RESEARCH

INSTITUTE HEALTH AND WELLNESS CENTER – FORT SMITH

WELLNESSCENTERCLASSES.AS.ME FITNESS

Barre: Mon./Wed./Fri. 9:30a; Tues./Thurs. 12p

Strength & Tone: Wed. 5:30p; Sat. 9:30a

Yoga: Mon./Wed./Fri. 12p

NUTRITION

Mar. 14: Blue Zone Part 3, Ikaria, Greece Cooking Class, 5:30-7:30p

CERAMICS

Mar. 3: Mini Garden Gnomes for Kids, 9:30a

Mar. 7: Handbuilt Coaster Set for Adults, 6:30p

Mar. 10: Picasso Self Portraits for Kids, 9:30a

Mar. 10: Wheel Class for Adults, 6:30p

Mar. 17: Bobble Heads for Kids, 9:30a

Mar. 22: Wheel Class for Adults, 6:30p *Kidsclassesages5+ **Adultclasses–ages18+

DANCE

Moving with Parkinson’s: Wed. 1-2p Kids with danceAbilities: Tues. 5:30-6:30p (beginning April 1) *RegisteratMelissaschoenfeld.com

Ballet classes & info visit/register at Waballet.org

RIHWC EVENT CENTER

April 10: Art Reception, 5-7p

Mar. 27: Build a Telegraph Machine

Mar. 28: Lost Mummy Escape Challenge

FREE for kids / $5 for accompanying adults

*Registration required

Mar. 26: Baseball vs. Rogers State, 3p

Mar. 28-30: Baseball vs. Washburn, 4p/1p/1p

Submit events online at dosouthmagazine.com/calendar-of-events/.

COMMUNITY IN FOCUS

1: ACHE and First National Bank celebrate the launch of the “Adopt a Scholar” program. 2: Chaffee Crossing Historic District’s Chaffee Barbershop and Military Museum ribbon cutting. 3: Fort Smith Little Theatre’s recent production, The Savannah Sipping Society. 4: Coming soon, the cheesecake retail storefront, The Bakehoose, in Brunwick Place, Fort Smith. 5: Blupoint Seafood & Steak is now open at Heritage in Chaffee Crossing. 6: Nurses Honor Guard of the River Valley in service at Hope Campus in Fort Smith. 7: Pawsome fun at Ultimutt Dog Care in Fort Smith.

Want to be featured in the magazine?

TAG YOUR INSTAGRAM AND FACEBOOK PHOTOS WITH @DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.

Buy & Sell - Safely and Easily.

Sell your unwanted items from the comfort of home or find your next treasure! Buy and sell without the hassle of personal meetings, making it safe and easy.

Where History Speaks Fort Smith Museum of History

words and images CAROLINE SPEIR, FORT SMITH MUSEUM OF HISTORY

Fort Smith, 1910: Once a notorious small border town, just fourteen years removed from its most defining era, Fort Smith was endeavoring to move beyond its infamous past to reap the cultural benefits of expansive growth during the Gilded Age. Garrison Avenue, the heart of the community, was lined with multi-story structures showcasing grand architectural details of the period. A group of visionary women, understanding the importance of their town at the cusp of significant growth, undertook the critical task of preserving and sharing Fort Smith's story.

Initially known as the Old Commissary Museum and later the Old Fort Museum, it was a name well-remembered by locals. In 1979, the museum relocated to the historic 1906 Atkinson-Williams Hardware Warehouse. By 1999, it had been renamed the Fort Smith Museum of History (FSMH), establishing itself as the oldest museum in Fort Smith and the second oldest in Arkansas. Now in its one hundred sixteenth year, FSMH continues to collect, preserve, and share the history and culture of Fort Smith and the surrounding region.

Among the museum's collections is the story of a notable Fort Smith native born in 1911, General William O. Darby, who, during World War II, commanded Darby’s Rangers. Growing up in Fort Smith, young Billy Darby was a curious explorer of his hometown streets. He learned the clarinet from his father and was a scrappy "Boy Ranger." His leadership principles are still taught to aspiring U.S. Army Rangers today.

Several memorials, including a gate at Fort Chaffee and the USNS General William O. Darby, honor his legacy. Fort Smith's Italian sister cities, Cisterna and Nago-Torbole, also commemorate Darby and his Rangers. His impact has been further memorialized through city parks, museum exhibits, schools, statues, monuments, marathons, and in his final resting place in Fort Smith. Colonel Darby was killed in action on April 30, 1945, in Italy.

In 2023, FSMH initiated the Fort Smith General Darby Challenge in collaboration with the new Darby House and the City of Fort Smith. This event, a 13.1-mile Ruck March, Half Marathon, 5K, or 10K, honors General Darby and Fort Smith’s twin cities in Italy. In 2025, the eightieth anniversary of General Darby's death will be commemorated.

Join us on April 27, 2025, in downtown Fort Smith for the second annual Darby Challenge, to celebrate his enduring legacy and the sacrifices of WWII heroes. Register for the Fort Smith General Darby Challenge at RunSignUp.com.

Old Commissary Museum

Their first five years 90 percent of your child’s intellect, personality and social skills are developed by age 5. Research tells us the most effective learning happens through play and positive interactions with family and educators.

Family is your child’s first teacher

Your family creates positive interactions when you hold your child and talk to them, play and read to them. When you focus your attention on your child, you show them how important they are to you.

From their first days with you, your family has guided your child toward communication and understanding their world. Most families must return to work when their child is four months old. Families need a partner to continue the education they’ve begun and

Better Beginnings is administered by the Arkansas Department of Education.

90 percent of your child’s intellect, personality and social skills are developed by age 5.

Written by Kelli Hilburn, Better Beginnings Program Administrator

help their child get ready to start school at age five.

Help finding quality care

Better Beginnings connects families to quality early care and education providers that help prepare your child for kindergarten through positive experiences, research-based curriculum and learning through play.

Children should enjoy warm, positive interactions with other children and staff. Look for early care staff that responds to the

Scan the code to find your early care and education partner at Better Beginnings

needs of each child. Staff that plays with, talks to and reads to the children much like you do at home. The facility should provide active play areas indoors and outdoors, and areas for quiet play and rest.

Curriculum should be ageappropriate, and the program should have good processes for communication so families can extend their child’s learning progress at home.

Your quality early care and education partner

Click the orange banner at ARBetterBeginnings.com to find star-rated quality early care and education providers who can help your child start school with confidence.

Their first five years build the foundation for your child’s future. Give your child the best start with Better Beginnings quality early care and education providers.

Fort Smith Boys & Girls Clubs

words FORT SMITH BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS

The mission of the Fort Smith Boys & Girls Clubs is to inspire and enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to realize their full potential as productive, caring, and responsible citizens.

ensuring a seamless transition to our programs. Sign-ups for this program are first come, first served, so be sure to sign up as soon as possible.

Why is community involvement so important to your mission?

Our success depends on support from the Fort Smith community. Mentors provide guidance and serve as positive role models for kids, and donations help fund memberships, supplies, and meals. Together, we make a tremendous impact on local youth.

What role does the Club play during the summer?

We offer full-day programs packed with fun and educational activities, including field trips, team building, sports, and STEM projects. Kids stay fed, engaged, learning, and active while school is out.

How can someone get involved with the Club?

You can become a mentor, volunteer for events, or donate to sponsor a child’s membership or programs. Every hour or dollar invested helps create life-changing opportunities for our kids. It just takes one person to make a difference.

What impact does donor support have on the kids?

Donor support helps keep membership fees low and provides scholarships for families in need. It also funds vital resources like STEM equipment, art supplies, meals, and shuttles.

What’s one thing you’d like the Fort Smith community to know about the Club?

With four units, we’ve been empowering Fort Smith’s youth for ninety-seven years. We’re more than a place to play— we’re a second home where kids build connections and discover their potential. Together, we’re building a brighter future for Fort Smith, one child at a time.

How can people learn more or get in touch?

Visit fsbgc.org or follow us on social media for updates on programs and events. Ready to make a difference? Reach out to us online or stop by any of our units today!

Enjoy incredible student performances this spring! Reserve your seat at uafs.universitytickets.com.

One Man, Two Guvnors

7 p.m. shows March 13-15

Wind Ensemble

7 p.m. • Tuesday, April 8

Jazz Catz

7 p.m. • Tuesday, April 15

Jazz Band

7 p.m. • Thursday, April 17

Grand Night for Singing

7 p.m. • Tuesday, April 22

Orchestra 7 p.m. • Monday, April 28

For showtimes and ticket information, scan the QR code or visit uafs.edu/season.

UAFS athletics

Baseball

March 1-2 vs March 7-9 vs March 26 vs March 28-30

For game times and ticket information, scan the QR code or visit uafslions.com

The GOODS

images JADE GRAVES PHOTOGRAPHY AND COURTESY VENDORS

Hearts On Fire Lu Droplet Bracelet, 18kt White Gold, 6.40cts. JOHN MAYS JEWELERS

479.452.2140

Party Cup, Engine Organic Gin, Natterjack Irish Whiskey Blend, Prairie Hollaback Girl Sour Ale,

SODIE’S WINE & SPIRITS

479.783.8013

Chateau Ste Michelle Light Chardonnay, Butter Light Chardonnay, The Crossings Light Wave Sauvignon Blanc IN GOOD SPIRITS

479.434.6604

Eyewear by Krewe STILES EYE GROUP

479.452.2020

Audinell’s PerfectDry LUX Automatic Disinfecting & Cleaning System CENTER FOR HEARING AND BALANCE

479.785.3277

Swig

Trivento White Malbec

Your Comfort, Our Priority.

Whether you’re seeking energy-saving tips to help save on costs or you’re interested in learning about payment options to fit your budget, we are here to help! Arkansas Oklahoma Gas offers resources to empower you with the knowledge to help weatherproof your home or business, and your wallet. Our knowledgeable and friendly team members are here to help.

✓ Explore Payment Assistance Programs

✓ Learn More About Payment Plans

✓ Set Up Your Preferred Payment Option

✓ Discover Helpful Tips to Save Energy

To learn more about all the ways AOG is here for you this cold-weather season, visit aogc.com/winter.

Wine and Roses Gala A Night of Elegance and Impact

words JESSIE BICKERTON, REYNOLDS CANCER SUPPORT HOUSE images SIMPLY SYKES PHOTOGRAPHY

The Reynolds Cancer Support House is set to host its 31st Annual Wine and Roses Gala, a highly anticipated black-tie event that generates nearly half of its annual income to support local cancer patients and their families.

This year’s gala promises an evening filled with entertainment and purpose. Guests will enjoy live music from The Get Down, a dynamic band from Tulsa known for keeping the energy high and the dance floor packed. Attendees can indulge in mouthwatering five-star food and desserts from the renowned 21 West End, ensuring a delightful night out that supports a vital mission.

As guests mingle and enjoy the festivities, they can raise a glass with a variety of fine wines, beers, and mixed drinks. Additionally, there will be opportunities to win stunning items, including custom-made jewelry from The Smith Jewelry & Living. All proceeds from the auction will go directly to help local cancer patients.

The impact of this event is immeasurable. Last year, we provided over 7,000 services to more than 3,000 patients—each service a lifeline for someone battling cancer. We love that more people are learning about our work because it means we’re reaching more individuals in need. But as our reach grows, so does the demand for our services. To keep up, we need to raise the funds that make it all possible.

The evening will feature a lineup of music and art, adding a special touch to the event. Guests can capture memories at a photo booth or through our professional photographer. Attendees are encouraged to hit the dance floor as the night heats up.

After dinner, the gala will showcase a live auction featuring fine wines, premium liquors, exclusive experiences, and luxurious trips. Every bid will contribute to providing essential services like transportation assistance, nutritional support, and counseling for local cancer patients, making a significant impact on their lives.

This event blends elegance with purpose, inviting community members to attend the Wine and Roses Gala and support those facing cancer.

For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit their Facebook page or email jessie@reynoldscancersupporthouse.com.

Colorectal Cancer: Early Detection Saves Lives

words DO SOUTH images MVELISHCHUK/SHUTTERSTOCK

Colorectal cancer, encompassing both colon and rectal cancers, is the third most diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. Despite its prevalence, early detection and proactive management can significantly improve outcomes. March, designated as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, is a pivotal time to learn more about this disease.

Understanding Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer originates in the colon or rectum and parts of the large intestine. It typically begins as benign polyps, which can transform into malignant tumors over time. Early stages often present no symptoms, underscoring the importance of regular screenings.

Recognizing the Signs

While early colorectal cancer may be without symptoms, certain signs should prompt you to seek medical attention. Persistent changes in bowel habits habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, or a change in stool consistency that lasts more than a few days, are noteworthy. The presence of rectal bleeding or blood in your stool can be alarming and warrants an evaluation. If you experience persistent abdominal discomfort , including cramping, gas, or pain, it’s important to take note. Unexplained weight loss loss, when you haven't changed your diet or exercise routine, should also be taken seriously. Additionally, feeling unusually tired or weak could be a sign of fatigue related to underlying issues. It’s essential to note that while these symptoms can be associated with other conditions like hemorrhoids or infections, their persistence should prompt a consultation with your healthcare provider.

Risk Factors and Prevention

Certain lifestyle and genetic factors can increase your risk of colorectal cancer. The risk tends to rise with age, particularly after age fifty. If you have a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps in close relatives, your risk could be elevated. Diets high in red and processed meats have been linked to a higher likelihood of developing colorectal cancer. Additionally, a sedentary lifestyle contributes to overall cancer risk, as does obesity, with excess body weight being associated with an increased risk of this type of cancer. To help prevent colorectal

cancer, it is advisable to maintain a healthy diet rich in fiber, fruits, and vegetables, engage in regular physical activity, and avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.

The Importance of Screening and Prevention

Screening is a powerful tool in preventing colorectal cancer. Finding and removing polyps before they become cancerous can significantly reduce risk. The American Cancer Society recommends individuals at average risk begin regular screenings at age forty-five. Those with a family history or other risk factors may need to start earlier.

What is a Colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is widely regarded as the gold standard for colorectal cancer screening. This vital procedure involves a gastroenterologist examining the entire colon and rectum with a flex tube equipped with a camera. It's not only diagnostic, but it also allows for detection and removal of polyps during the procedure.

By age fifty, it is advised for everyone, regardless of gender or overall health, to begin scheduling a colonoscopy every ten years. As we age, the risk of developing polyps and colorectal cancer increases, and routine screenings are crucial for early detection and treatment. However, you might need to consider earlier or more frequent screenings if you have a family history of bowel cancer or pre-existing conditions that affect your digestive system, including Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), or a previous diagnosis of colorectal polyps.

Alternative Screening Methods

All screening methods are not equal, and it's important to discuss the options with your primary care physician to determine the most appropriate screening strategy based on your risk factors.

The Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) is a non-invasive stoolbased test that detects hidden blood in the stool, which can be an early sign of cancer. It is recommended annually and offers a convenient option for individuals who prefer to avoid more invasive procedures. The Stool DNA Test The Stool DNA Test checks for specific DNA mutations and blood in the stool that might indicate colorectal cancer or precancerous polyps. Typically recommended every

three years, this test can be done at home, with the sample mailed to a lab for analysis.

CT Colonography Colonography, also known as Virtual Colonoscopy, is a minimally invasive imaging procedure that uses CT scans to produce detailed images of the colon and rectum. Recommended every five years, it may be an option for those who cannot undergo a standard colonoscopy. And finally, Flexible Sigmoidoscopy, which examines only the lower part of the colon, is similar to a colonoscopy but less extensive. It is typically recommended every five years and may be combined with stool-based tests for comprehensive screening.

Colorectal cancer is a significant health concern, but with awareness, regular screening, and early intervention, it is preventable and treatable. This March, take proactive steps: consult with your healthcare provider about screening, stay informed about symptoms, and encourage others to do the same. Early detection saves lives.

CRC FACTS

• 1 in 23 men and 1 in 25 women will be diagnosed in their lifetime.

• #2 c ause of cancer death in the U.S.

• #3 most diagnosed cancer among men and women.

• An estimated 1,392,445 people are living with CRC in the U.S.

• 25%-30% have a family history of the disease.

• The incidence of early-onset colorectal cancer is expected to increase by more than 140% by 2030.

• More than 27,000 people under age 50 will be diagnosed in 2030.

• Among adults under 50, CRC is the #1 cause of c ancer death in men and the #2 cause in women.

• The number of patients in the U.S. diagnosed under 55 years of age doubled from 11% in 1995 to 20% in 2019.

Sources: SEER Cancer Statistics, American Cancer Society, NCIB

Learn more by visiting colorectalcancer.org, cancer.org, preventcancerfoundation.org, and fightcolorectalcancer.org.

A Century of Service Fort Smith Noon Exchange Club

words and images FORT SMITH NOON EXCHANGE CLUB

Chartered on March 4, 1925, the Fort Smith Noon Exchange Club (FSNE) began with twenty-one members who gathered in downtown Fort Smith. From the onset, the Club became known for its informative programs, highlighting local projects and non-profits. The format continues today at its noon meetings each Friday at Golden Corral.

The weekly programs have led to several partnerships with charitable organizations. The Club’s support of Girls, Inc. can be traced back to a 1947 newsletter wherein Jay Anderson invited the Girls Club ladies to present a program about their summer camp. As a joke, Dr. I. Fulton Jones suggested that community leader Nancy Orr should auction her hat. Orr took him up on it, raising $750 for forty campers. That auction led to the establishment of the R.C. Goodman Scholarship, which has enabled thousands of young ladies to have a summer camp experience.

The Club is also an active Partner in Education with Beard Elementary School. Exchangites promote Americanism and support the organization’s national project by participating in Child Abuse Prevention Month activities each April. A beloved Club tradition is the weekly news update, which began when former Mayor Jack Freeze posted headlines at a Chamber function. It was suggested he present a similar report to FSNE, which he did for fifty years. Past President Scott Monroe continues the ritual today.

What has allowed FSNE to thrive for 100 years is its ability to uphold tradition while adapting to changing times. The 1980s ushered in a new era as women were first granted membership. During the pandemic, meetings went virtual. Today, FSNE is active on social media and routinely welcomes new members looking to network and give back.

The organization is best known for its community service honors. FSNE hosts an annual Emergency Responder Awards luncheon, and its Book of Golden Deeds Award is also recognized as one of the region’s longest standing and most prestigious accolades.

“We are thrilled to continue this tradition at our 82nd Annual Book of Golden Deeds Banquet on March 21,” said President Julie Moncrief. “This year’s event is even more momentous in that we will celebrate our 100th anniversary and welcome the National Exchange Club CEO and President.” The event will take place at Hardscrabble Country Club. Doors will open at 6 p.m., and tickets can be purchased at FortSmithNoonExchange.com.

“Fort Smith Noon Exchange Club has withstood the test of time because of its unwavering commitment to service, fellowship, and making our community a better place,” said Moncrief. “We are proud of our rich legacy and encourage all who have played a part in our history to attend this year’s milestone celebration.”

PROFILES LEGAL LEADERS

words DWAIN HEBDA AND CATHERINE FREDERICK

image CAROL M. HIGHSMITH ARCHIVE, LIBRARY OF CONGRESS // SPONSORED CONTENT

INa world where the law touches every corner of our lives, the demand for exceptional legal guidance is paramount. This year, Do South takes a closer look at local attorneys who not only represent the best of the legal profession but also embody the spirit of our community. These are not just lawyers; they are defenders of the everyday, advocates for the wronged, and counselors to those at life’s crossroads.

From the high-stakes courtrooms handling personal injury cases to the serene offices planning futures through estate law, these professionals make up the backbone of our legal system. They navigate the complexities of medical malpractice with a surgeon's precision, tackle the intricacies of family law and bankruptcy with empathy, and stand in the defense of the accused with unyielding courage.

Each profile in this special feature delves into the stories of these legal leaders. You’ll learn not just about their areas of expertise, but also about the paths they’ve taken in their legal careers, the challenges they’ve overcome, and the victories they’ve secured.

Whether advocating in front of a jury, negotiating across the mediation table, or drafting the contracts that shape our local businesses, these attorneys stand as pillars of professionalism and protectors of both individual and collective rights. Welcome to our annual Legal Leaders profiles, where the law’s finest make a profound impact far beyond the courtroom doors.

Ashleigh Buckley

THE BUCKLEY FIRM

During her formative years at Southside High School, Fort Smith native Ashleigh Buckley didn’t have any designs on a legal career. That all changed in college.

“I don’t have any lawyers in my family, didn’t know any lawyers, had no connection to the legal field at all, but I was interested in current events and keeping up with politics,” she says. “I took some political science classes at the U of A in Fayetteville and found that what I most loved was learning about the law.”

Ashleigh quickly became one to watch in her law school class. A member of the National Trial Competition and American Association for Justice mock trial teams, she was one-half of the first

all-female team to win first place in the William H. Sutton Barristers’ Union Trial Competition at the University of Arkansas. She also served as secretary of the Board of Advocates.

Following graduation from law school in 2010, she worked as an associate with the law firm of Leitner, Williams, Dooley & Napolitan in Memphis, where she gained valuable trial and courtroom experience in representing Fortune 500 companies, national trucking companies, school districts, and small businesses in the litigation of personal injury and tort cases.

Returning home in 2012, she served as a Deputy Prosecuting Attorney in Sebastian County. Her exemplary performance earned her a spot among thirty state prosecutors nationally to attend the National Trial Advocacy Academy with the National District Attorneys’ Association. She followed that with a stint as Assistant United States Attorney in the Western District of Arkansas in the Project Safe Childhood Division, prosecuting cases involving child pornography and sexually exploited children online.

Ashleigh is licensed to practice in Arkansas, Tennessee, and the Choctaw Nation. She also served as an adjunct professor in the University of Arkansas Fort Smith Legal Studies Department, inspiring the next generation of attorneys. In 2017, she joined her husband, William, as co-owner and managing partner attorney in The Buckley Firm, where her

legal specialties include personal injury and other civil litigation casework.

Clients speak of Ashleigh’s responsiveness and professionalism in representing them, as she takes great pride in helping injured people recover from the negligence of others.

Ashleigh has devoted much time to her community outside of work, serving a variety of nonprofits, some of which include serving as president of the Junior League of Fort Smith, where she founded a college scholarship for youth in foster care. Presently, she is working with a group of parents in the River Valley to bring the Fort Kids Children’s Museum to life by raising money to build Fort Smith’s first children’s museum on the Riverfront. She also serves on the Mercy Health Foundation Board of Advisors and volunteers to coach local high schoolers in mock trial competitions.

Ashleigh and William spend much of their free time keeping up with their two sons, Will and Ben, and serving their parish, Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Fort Smith. She also tries to find time to read and play with the family dogs, Charlie and Banksy, and indulge in her passion for caring for senior horses.

“One of the horses I have, I rode as a child, and some of my life’s best memories have included her,” she says. “It’s wonderful to be able to care for her now and watch her out in the pasture, living her best life.”

“Don’t leave your case to chance. Our team will be on your side every step of the way.”

SPENCER VEREEN

CADDELL REYNOLDS LAW FIRM

Licensed in Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Missouri, Caddell Reynolds has established itself as a leading law firm specializing in personal injury, workers' compensation, bankruptcy, wrongful death, and other legal cases. With strategically located offices in Fort Smith, Fayetteville, Rogers, and Jonesboro, they are well-positioned to serve clients throughout the state.

Senior Partner Fred Caddell and Managing Partner Bill Reynolds have built the thriving practice on a foundation of unparalleled expertise both in and outside the courtroom, as well as best-in-class service that ensures every case receives the attention it deserves. The duo has also shown exceptional skill in investing in the firm's future by identifying and onboarding the best young legal minds. Spencer Vereen, who joined the firm in 2022, is a prime example.

Spencer brings a broad set of experiences to the job of helping people get just and fair compensation following catastrophic injury, big rig collisions, and medical malpractice. Spencer’s early career achievements include several victories at the Court of Appeals.

Now in his fifth year of practice, Spencer has demonstrated exceptional skill in navigating intricate engineering and medical cases, securing a substantial $11.5 million settlement for a recent client. He has successfully assisted in resolving several multi-million-dollar tractor-trailer cases for severely injured clients and has taken a leading role in litigation against big pharma. He is currently involved in a products liability case against a prominent Japanese manufacturer in federal court.

After he graduated from Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Spencer spent a year in China as an education consultant. Turning down several opportunities to pursue his doctorate in the United Kingdom, Spencer returned to Arkansas, earning his law degree from the University of Arkansas Little Rock Bowen School of Law. Spencer notes that joining the firm has allowed him to practice the variety of cases of a big firm while still maintaining the close, personal connection to clients for which Caddell Reynolds is known.

“I love practicing in Fort Smith because it combines the perks of a big city with the charm of a small community," he

explains. "After living in a crowded city of 17.6 million in China, I prefer Fort Smith’s more connected and communal pace. It’s exciting to be part of the growth in the River Valley.”

Spencer said the firm's culture specifically lends itself to attorneys doing their best work, an expectation that runs from the top down. Caddell Reynolds ensures their attorneys are at the top of their game by emphasizing legal and realworld experience. This commitment is underscored by their rigorous education standards, which include requiring injury attorneys to join the Academy of Truck Accident Attorneys.

“That organization is exceptional in putting on advanced seminars and reallife acting scenarios,” Spencer explains. He also recalls that within the first few months of joining the firm, he was sent to a trucking school in Montana to learn how to safely operate a semi-truck. “Bill and Fred truly want the younger attorneys to succeed,” says Spencer.

"From a company culture perspective, the way this firm invests in its people translates into excellent client service," he says. "Bill and Fred actively encourage us to attend as many networking and educational opportunities as possible to grow in our practice. This innovative approach to leadership enhances our professional growth and ensures we deliver the highest standard of service to our clients."

“Arkansas Personal Injury Lawyers. When You Have Been Injured, Make the Right Call.”

Craig L. Cook

THE LAW OFFICES OF CRAIG L. COOK

When it comes to legal representation, experience matters. Craig Cook, founder of The Law Offices of Craig L. Cook, boasts nearly two decades of experience serving people suffering from catastrophic injury, nursing home negligence, medical malpractice, and other cases.

Craig says one of the primary things that sets the practice apart is the extensive legal expertise it offers with specialists across a variety of casework.

“All of our attorneys have different areas of practice they focus on,” he says. “This means we can serve most, if not all, of the community’s needs. I have a couple of lawyers who do domestic relations and another who primarily focuses on bankruptcy. I’ve got another attorney that primarily focuses on workers comp cases, and I’ve got one that primarily focuses on estate planning as well as personal injury.”

Unlike some multi-lawyer firms where the founder is often unseen by clients, Craig distinguishes himself by remaining extremely accessible.

“Clients have a number of ways to reach us,” he says. “If they call the office, any office number we have listed on our website comes to my cell phone after hours. If I do not pick up that call, or for whatever reason it does not get to my cell phone, people can leave a message, which is recorded into an email sent to our office.”

The firm services the River Valley, northwest Arkansas, eastern Oklahoma, and the Tulsa metro area. Craig says that after nearly twenty years in practice, helping people who need it is still immensely gratifying. “Being in a position where you’re able to get somebody closure to a traumatic event is what makes this job worthwhile,” he said.

Phillip J. Milligan

Phillip Milligan’s approach to the law, and a credo that sums up thirty-three years in private practice, might best be described by the old saying, “If you want something done right, do it yourself.”

“I think the first thing that sets us apart is how clients can communicate with me directly and how accessible we are,” he says. “We don’t have a setup where the client talks to multiple staff and very seldom gets to talk to a lawyer. I talk to my clients every day when they call. I’m very accessible from a communications standpoint, talking directly with clients.”

Phillip grew up locally and received his undergraduate degree from Arkansas Tech in Russellville and his law degree from the University of Arkansas Law School in Fayetteville. His path to a legal practice was a winding one — his undergraduate degree is in biological sciences, and he detoured into the FBI for the first three years out of law school. Today, his experience as a

special agent still pays dividends, allowing him to investigate cases himself to prepare a case.

“My experience with the FBI equipped me with the skills necessary to conduct investigations independently, without the need for external investigators,” he says. “I do my own investigation in almost all of my cases, which pays an additional dividend in keeping my clients’ bills down, to some extent.”

With over three decades in the legal field, Phillip has amassed a wealth of experience — so much so that he’s lost count of how many jury trials he’s conducted — which he applies effectively to every case he takes on.

“I’m very passionate about serving each and every client through my understanding of a complex legal system,” he says. “I tell my clients all the time: ‘There’s very little I haven’t done in this challenging field. I’m here to lift the burden for you.’”

Phil Votaw

PHIL VOTAW & ASSOCIATES

Of all the attributes that make a great attorney, Phil Votaw can boast of education, experience, and customer service in personal injury and medical malpractice cases, which are on par with many other law firms. However, what sets him apart from the field can be described in one word: passion.

“One of the most difficult things I had to reconcile as a lawyer coming up is making a living off of somebody else’s worst day of their life, sometimes the last day of their life,” he says. “I know I can’t undo what happened, but what I can do is make sure that I get them through a bad situation with compassion and basic human empathy.

“Many times, this worst day of their life is compounded when they try to deal with an insurance company, a hospital, or some big corporation that has them outmatched at every turn. I level the playing field and do it with passion and compassion for my clients, so I feel I’m putting good energy into the universe.”

His firm operates in the River Valley and Northwest Arkansas, helping injured people put their lives back together after the negligent, injurious, and sometimes fatal actions of others. Medical malpractice cases hold particular appeal to him as he sees it as having a wider societal impact that goes beyond his clients.

“Some of the physicians around town are my very best friends, and they absolutely love what I do,” he says. “They know the people I go after in these cases are making everybody else’s jobs more difficult and giving local health care a bad name. The only way to improve that is to hold them accountable and effectively punish hospitals and doctors who practice below the standard of care.”

Votaw, who bills himself as “unlike any lawyer you’ve ever met,” is also a dedicated family man. He and his wife, Fort Smith realtor Polina Votaw, are the proud parents of three daughters.

Eddie H. Walker, Jr. WALKER LAW GROUP, PLC

Dedicated, excellent, professional, civil, and reasonable are just a few of the accolades that describe attorney Eddie H. Walker, Jr. Following his tenure as an Administrative Law Judge for the Arkansas Workers’ Compensation Commission, he established a private practice focused on representing injured workers.

His steadfast commitment and deep understanding of workers' rights have distinguished him as the first attorney in Arkansas, unaffiliated with management or insurance companies, to be inducted into the College of Workers’ Compensation Lawyers. Walker stands out for his strict policy of not representing insurance companies or employers, ensuring that his advocacy for injured workers remains pure and unconflicted.

In addition to his busy law practice, Walker has made significant contributions to the legal community. He has served as president of the Arkansas Bar Association, Special Justice of the Arkansas Supreme Court, and chaired the Arkansas Supreme

EDDIE H. WALKER, JR. (Former Workers’ Compensation Judge)

Court Committee on Professional Conduct. His dedication to education is evident through his role as a lecturer on workers’ compensation at the University of Arkansas School of Law. Beyond his professional endeavors, he is active in his church and committed to his faith.

Walker's legal philosophy is rooted deeply in ethical practice. “My greatest foundation is that I treat people the way I would want them to treat me," he explained. “I take very seriously a lawyer’s ethical responsibilities to clients,” Walker emphasizes, highlighting his commitment to ethical integrity in all legal dealings.

Graduating from the University of Arkansas, where he began his journey in law after growing up in Gethsemane, Arkansas, Walker's career is marked by a dedication to justice, making him one of the most respected workers’ compensation attorneys in the state.

TheBrewBig

words DWAIN HEBDA // images FORT SMITH COFFEE CO.

Kaity and Gabe Gould's path to coffee bean entrepreneurship is long — in miles, if not in time. Owners of Fort Smith Coffee Co., the husband-and-wife's dream of roasting, packaging, and brewing the finest beans from halfway across the globe, started Down Under and wound up in Fort Smith, Gabe's hometown, where the venture has grown quickly.

"'Why coffee?' That definitely has a backstory," Kaity says. "Gabe and I had lived in Sydney, Australia when we were first married. Gabe attended Hillsong International Leadership College, a theology and worship creative arts program. I started working as a barista and just really enjoyed seeing the community connections that happened over a cup of coffee. That's when I decided to own a coffee shop one day."

The idea was something of a moonshot, considering Gabe didn't even like coffee back then, and the dream went onto the back burner for a few years. However, times, tastes, and addresses eventually changed, and once the couple relocated back to Fort Smith, they found the market lacked the kind of coffee they had come to crave while living abroad.

"We relocated here in spring 2013, and when we moved back, we wanted fresh roasted coffee," Kaity explains. "We saw a huge need in the River Valley and wanted to fill that gap."

The couple started modestly, roasting coffee in small batches as a glorified hobby, albeit a hobby that produced beans that developed a ravenous following at the local farmers market. Three years of growing a base led to the company's first brick-and-mortar location, measuring more than 2,200 square feet, at 1101 Rogers Avenue, in May 2017.

In the summer of 2020, Fort Smith Coffee Co. opened a second location, a four-thousand-square-foot space in the downtown Bakery District, which expanded its roasting operations. Early last fall, the company opened a third spot, this time inside the U.S. Marshals Museum. The company employs a total of twenty people across all three sites.

Kaity notes the company's relatively rapid expansion hasn't been without its learning curve. "Scaling the business has actually been, absolutely, the biggest challenge of this journey for us," she says. "About a year after we opened at the Bakery District, a year spent navigating COVID restrictions and all of that stuff where surviving was thriving, we really started kicking off our wholesale business.

"We knew we had untapped potential to increase our production and expand into the wholesale sector. That required a separate permit because even though we do the coffee roasting inside our Bakery District location for our retail space, [wholesale] is considered a separate operation."

The company's wholesale coffee business has slowly started to gain some traction, and building revenue from business-to-business clients is a priority for 2025.

"We're also doing a thing called white label, which is coffee we roast for other branding," Gabe says. "A client will tell us they want this particular type of branding, and we will work with a designer to set that up for them, then put out coffee roasted to their specifications under a different label."

Ramping up production to supply its growing retail and online operations, as well as moving into wholesale accounts, has meant investing in newer, larger equipment and expanding staff expertise. Both have been accomplished through the Bakery location, Kaity says, not to mention securing warehousing space outside the three public-facing locations.

"Moving into that wholesale sector, we did purchase a largercapacity roaster," Gabe says. "It is still very much small batch, but for us, a much larger capacity coffee roaster. The roaster that we have now can handle ten times as much coffee as we're putting through it currently. We're excited to ramp that up and maximize our equipment.

"We also have one head coffee roaster and another person or two in our roasting department to handle shipping, bagging, labeling, and so on. We've definitely fine-tuned our craft."

Only certain regions of the world have the right soil and climate to grow coffee, none of which are located in the United States. This means that in addition to the unforeseen challenges that can come with any agricultural crop, there are potential political and trade issues to consider when importing it. But so far, so good, Gabe says; for all the challenges the company has faced to grow and expand, getting enough raw material hasn't been one of them.

"There are some of those things happening in some of those countries, but we've never experienced a situation where we weren't able to get coffee," he says. "We kind of just rotate different origins in and out, depending on what's available at the time."

From the beginning, the company has been as picky about the quality of the food they serve as they have been about the beans they roast. Nearly everything — right down to the flavored syrups and caramel sauce — is made in-house, and the few things that aren't are of the highest quality, such as

sourcing bread from the local Harvest Moon Bakery and featuring the coveted Boar's Head brand of meats.

"From day one, we have made almost everything from scratch," Kaity says. "I do believe that sets us apart."

The couple says they have no immediate plans for another location although they insist they never say never in order to stay open to as-yet unforeseen opportunities. Today, the couple's focus lies in maintaining the quality and standards that got them here, from beverages to food to customer service, and carrying those elements that drive community-building into the wholesale side of the business.

"We have our three retail fronts, and we have a great general manager, Savannha Rodriguez, who is allowing us the opportunity to really focus on that B2B side," Kaity shares. "We're really looking forward to forming corporate partnerships where we can help businesses provide high-quality, fresh coffee to their employees. We're excited about the partnerships we have and the potential to grow that even more."

Explore operating hours, locations, menus, and more by visiting fortsmithcoffeeco.com.

Gabe Gould

Kaity Gould

Reel Success Mike Hart's Innovative Approach to Film

words DWAIN HEBDA // images MIKE HART

In the business world, executives come in all shapes and sizes, from the buttoneddown to the stressed-out to the laidback. And then there's Mike Hart, owner of 5 Star Productions, a video production company in Fort Smith, who personifies the adage, "Marching to the beat of a different drummer."

"The secret sauce is real easy," he says of his company's success. "Anybody can hire a production company, everybody has great people, but are they a great fit? We're more about being who we are and letting that client come in and see that, and if they feel comfortable, they'll do business with you. If not, they won't, and that's cool. Every human's different; some people dig it, some people dig the 5 Star mojo, and some are looking for something a little different."

Mike and Cheryl Hart

One might think that attitude would limit the kinds of clients 5 Star appeals to, but such has not proven to be the case. Over the past two decades, Mike and his band of creatives have done video work for some of the largest corporations in America, from Rheem Manufacturing and Colt and Walther firearms to Cheez-It and Kellogg's to Home Depot. In between, there has been work for several local businesses as well as television series, feature films, and other video content throughout the United States and at various international locations.

Attempts to fully explain what makes the firm tick require reflection and the question puts Mike's trademark mile-aminute energy on momentary pause.

"I used to sell production by going in and saying, 'Hey, you guys, listen, we've got the best equipment. We've got a ten thousand-square-foot building. We've got a theater.' I was selling, right?" he says.

subject matter, he came by honestly, living it from his earliest childhood.

"I was born here in Arkansas, and we grew up pretty poor," he says. "We moved around a lot trying to find work from the time I can remember, from the time I was five or six. We lived in some bad parts of Kansas City. We lived in some bad parts of Colorado, and we always ended up coming back to Arkansas."

The oldest of five kids, Mike's teenage years were spent in less-than-positive ways as he fell into the wrong crowd and regularly found himself in trouble.

"When I was in junior high and high school, you know, I was in and outta juvenile detention," he said. "I was always with the wrong crowd, always wanting to do something I shouldn't be doing. I just had a rough life, pretty much brought on by myself. I mean, I blamed everybody and anybody that ever did anything, you know?

Eventually, I realized, you know what? Stop trying to sell what you have and sell who you are and who your team

is,

because the one talent I have is finding great people and nurturing them to go on and do great things.

The other fundamental element to Mike's success is a natural aptitude for storytelling, whether in a million-dollar sixty-second commercial or trash-talking across the poker table. And while it wasn't always the happiest of themes, much of what he knows about framing

"I didn't really know anything except I had to get away from the bad people I was hanging out with, and there's a lot of scar tissue there, literally. I got busted up pretty good, trying to get away from some of the people that I shouldn't have been around."

By age seventeen, he was working in an ice plant across the border in Oklahoma when he heard about the local NBC affiliate in Fort Smith hiring for a camera operator. Of course, he'd never operated a television camera before, but never one to lack chutzpah, he applied anyway. To his amazement, he was hired on the spot and asked to report for the evening newscast.

"My boss basically looked at me and was like, 'You're an idiot, but I'll give you a job,'" he says. "You talk about an eye opener, a seventeen-year-old kid who came from neighborhoods where you stole everything you wanted to, suddenly being in a news studio trying to learn how to run a camera. It was something."

Mike soon discovered he had a knack for the technology of television, for editing spots, and a natural eye for what looked good. His years in TV were profitable ones — for himself as well as for his employer — but the hours were murder.

"I loved this production thing, but I was working sixteen- to twenty-hour days, then going home, taking a shower, and going back to work, basically," he says. "By this time, I've got two daughters, and we had plans to have another child.

Mike Prepares for KPOM NBC 24 Newscast in 1988

Mike and Tony Kanaan, Indy Car Champ

"My wife, Cheryl, was always so supportive. I'll never forget, I came home once and told her how I loved the business. She told me, 'Why don't you do this for yourself and make your own money instead of making it for somebody else?' So, in 1996, I bit the bullet, you know, and took the jump."

Cheryl's faith proved well-founded as one challenge after another was met and overcome to get the business established and bring in clients. Today, 5 Star Productions' facility includes the 801 Media Center, a sprawling complex that offers spaces for corporate events and training, private concerts, and movie screenings, press conferences, and a host of other uses.

The digs aren't the only thing that's first class. Over time, the business has attracted a roster of creatives and technicians that have grown into one of the most respected production crews in the country, producing work that Mike will stack up against any competitor anywhere.

"I get this question all the time," he said. "We were shooting for Google in New York City, and they're like, 'Why do we have a production company coming from Arkansas?' We were shooting in Washington, D.C., for what they call

an automotive mega project, and a guy from Britain was like, 'So we've hired a crew from Alabama?' And I'm like, no, it's Arkansas.

"So, we fight the Arkansas stigma, but I've learned to embrace it. I always tell people, you know, talent's talent; it really doesn't matter where the hell we're at. And once we do the work, they don't give a damn where we're from, either."

In fact, Mike sometimes wonders if some of the magic of the company would be lost if 5 Star Productions were located in one of the first places people think of when they think of production houses, such as Chicago, New York, or L.A. Being from someplace else, and proudly so, is much more in the company's roguish character.

"It's like a good friend of mine said one time, he said, 'You could uproot and build a company anywhere and keep doing what you do. But man, there's a grit about Fort Smith. There's a fight, there's something about it,'" Mike says. "Yeah, there's a percentage of people who visit Fort Smith and they think, 'What a hole,' but then there's the other people, like us, that go, 'Man, I dig it.'

"You know, last year, we were in over thirty different states, and a couple of years ago, we worked in more than eight countries. We run three crews constantly, going everywhere. But there's something about it — when that plane's flying back over Arkansas. It's bringing you home."

For more on 5 Star Productions, visit 5starproductions.com.

Travis Joiner, 5 Star Director of Photography

5 Star Crew

Nascar HOF Joe Gibbs and Brandon Jones 2024

“As the sun sets over the University of Arkansas - Fort Smith, the Donald W. Reynolds Bell Tower stands tall, its silhouette etched against a canvas of pink, gold and blue.”

University of Arkansas - Fort Smith Donald W. Reynolds Bell Tower by Joel Ledbetter Photography

PAYING IT BACK –MOVING FORWARD

JOHN 3:16 MINISTRIES OFFERS UNIQUE RECOVERY MODEL

words DWAIN HEBDA // images JOHN 3:16 MINISTRIES

Bryan Tuggle stumbled to the front door of his parents' home, a fog of drugs and alcohol clouding around his head. Three days prior, he'd broken into his five-year-old son's savings box in his bedroom, snatching whatever cash he could find. Armed with $350, he set out to feed the demon that had sunk its barbed tail deeper and deeper into his brain.

"I broke his little treasure box and got $350 out and went and bought an eight ball and half a gallon of whiskey," he says. "I was going to go kill myself — that way, he'd have some other daddy that could be there for him."

Bryan didn't end his life, but he did procure the usual array of things that were wrecking it, drinking and drugging his way through a seventy-two-hour bender. Now, he was back in a familiar place, standing at his parents’ threshold, mired in the depths of his life.

"I showed up back at my parents' house where my boy was, and, well, when I walked in the door, my mom hit me," he said. "It got real bad right there."

The whole family broke down crying. Bryan had tested the limits of their patience since high school when he first started dabbling in weed and alcohol, diversions that led quickly to harder drugs, to fit in. Then in his early thirties, those youthful dalliances with substances had long ago soured into fullblown addiction.

For Bryan's family, his lies and theft were secondary to the fear of the call they'd one day get that he'd finally overdosed. For Bryan himself, the fear was living more days in the strangling grip of the demon bent on possessing his body, mind, and spirit, one drink and one hit at a time.

Bryan Tuggle and family

"I hated me, but I couldn't quit doing what I did," Bryan says. "I was raised in church and knew that my life had become a real spiritual war. Drugs were no longer any type of fun; it was just all kind of demonic to me.

"I didn't need someplace that taught me I had the power within myself, because I knew I couldn't quit. I needed to find a place that taught the Word of God and would teach me how to apply the Word to my life. That day, I told my family that if I could find a place that taught Jesus, I would go because I could conquer this through Christ."

Now age sixty-one, Bryan tells the story of his addiction casually. After all, he has had a lot of practice telling it through John 3:16, the recovery program he launched twenty-two years ago to help others struggling with addiction. Based in Charlotte, Arkansas, near Batesville, the faithbased program is one of the more unusual recovery programs out there, starting with the fact that the six- to twelve-month program is entirely free for the asking, an element Bryan adopted from New Beginnings in Houston, Arkansas, where he finally got clean and sober.

"Dennis Hamilton started New Beginnings, and he's still running it," Bryan says. "When I went there to get help, you know, I didn't have a quarter, and I'd taken all that my mom and dad had. Mr. Hamilton told me that it wouldn't cost me anything — that Jesus Christ had paid my price, and it was paid in full. I would just need to come, broken, and with a willing attitude to change."

The program worked so well that within a month or two, Bryan's head cleared enough to start working with other men there, particularly the new guys. He found he had a knack for such work, which made him want to push the boundaries of the ministry. Striking out on his own, he founded John 3:16 Ministries.

The primary difference of his organization was that it looked beyond a person's residency and prepared them to reassimilate back into the world. To that end, John 3:16 Ministries includes an auto shop, carpentry shop, screen printing operation, and performs catering for events. The goal is to get those in recovery to look beyond the twohundred-acre campus to what's next.

"We do those things in community because if we're just stuck here all the time, how will somebody have the confidence to return to the world when it comes time to leave?" Bryan says. "We want them to know that they can make it out there. Confidence is a big factor in anyone's mind when recovering."

According to its website, John 3:16 Ministries has graduated more than 2,200 people in its history, including 200 in the past year alone, 160 of whom have also been baptized. Still, Bryan is the first to admit the process by which the ministry serves people continues to evolve.

"Well, actually, it's still being shaped," he says. "For a long time, I believed that we can find answers to all of our questions and problems in life in God's Word. I still believe that wholeheartedly, but as I get older and hopefully wiser, I understand that mental health is part of addiction, so we're working a lot more with medical professionals about the mental health part of it.

"Take me, for instance: I never meant to become an alcoholic or drug addict; I was just doing it for fun. You know, do a little cocaine, and you can drink and dance a whole lot more. But why did I ever start that, anyway? My brother didn't, my sister didn't, so why me? Why did I feel that temptation? I still don't have those answers, but I'm still searching. I can't find everything in the Bible."

Bryan says the big challenge for the ministry going forward is to fill beds, which is surprising given the rate of addiction in society in general and Arkansas in particular. Bryan says COVID reduced the ministry's numbers, and knowing the need exists, he is eager to get to full capacity again. In the meantime, he's reaching out to other groups to see how they can work together to reach more people and repair more lives.

"I want to work with anyone who wants to help overcome alcoholism and drug addiction, whether working through mental health professionals, working through churches, whoever," he says. "Our message remains the same, but we understand we need to be able to adapt and change to carry out our mission, to learn other methods to help people who are struggling to live because of their addiction."

As for his sobriety, Bryan admits to enduring some rough patches early on where life led him to backslide into his old ways. The difference was, where his younger self might have thrown in the towel and plunged deeper into self-loathing and shame, the reformed man stopped wasting that energy and redirected it into his ministry. He doesn't forget those

bad times — even if he could — because by owning them, he takes away their power.

"You know, I never see myself in the person graduating from our program. I always see myself in the man moving in for the first time, whose family is broken all to pieces and needs help," Bryan says. "I'm sixty-one years old, but I'm always the new guy.

"I believe God will keep me here as long as I have that heart and want to work with people, you know? I always want to reach one more soul."

If you or someone you love needs help, contact John 3:16 Ministries. They can be reached at 870.799.2525. Learn more at john316thecure.com.

Natural State Artisans

words BOB ROBINSON // images FEATURED ARTISTS

The scenic beauty of the River Valley and Northwest Arkansas has drawn a wealth of talented artisans to the Natural State. Their galleries, offering the perfect art pieces to add a touch of wildness to your sunroom, patio, or backyard, are just a short drive away.

DENNIS (HETE) HETER STAINED GLASS ART

Dennis Heter, of Wizard Stained Glass, began his glasswork journey in the midseventies after a class in Fort Lauderdale. Post-move from the Sunshine State and after various adventures, including Thru hiking the Appalachian Trail, Dennis put his glasswork on pause. It wasn't until he and his wife, Linda, built their log home in the War Eagle area, complete with a basement workshop, that he resumed his beloved craft.

Dennis has found great success on Etsy, but he prefers selling locally. “In person, I can interact with a client and truly understand what they want,” Dennis explains. “It’s just more rewarding than selling my work online to someone I will never meet."

I own one of his pieces—a collage of multicolored glass that catches the sunrise beautifully from my porch. Dennis also crafts exquisite stained-glass lampshades and vibrant garden decorations with live-edge wooden planks embedded with stained glass.

Visit Wizard Stained Glass on Facebook to view more of Dennis’ work, or to commission a piece, email wizard_sg@aol.com.

Dennis Heter

MIKE PARKS

MASTER WOODCARVER

Travel further east along the Arkansas River to find master woodcarver Mike Parks. Under the tutelage of his Uncle Dick, a craftsman of teakwood sailboats and detailed rifle stocks, Mike embraced carving from a young age. Inheriting his uncle’s vintage tools sparked even more joy in his craft. “These special tools made carving even more fun,” Mike explained. “I began taking my pieces to craft shows, and they took off.”

Mike, preferring hardwoods like black walnut and fruit trees, is always on the lookout for hardwood to collect for his carvings. His current stash includes varieties aged for over thirty years.

While Mike is available for commissioned carvings, he describes his work as “a style just my own.” In the early phase of creation, he has an image in mind about what he plans to create, but often, as he begins chipping away, a hidden natural pattern is uncovered, such as a vein or knot, which Mike works into the finished product. Mike sees himself as the instrument that helps the wood become what it was meant to be.

Explore Mike's unique carvings at Mike Parks Woodwizard on Facebook.

TOM FLYNN METAL SCULPTURE

Tom Flynn describes his creations as “found object metal sculptures.” His journey into metal sculpture began two decades ago with a welding class his wife suggested, despite Tom's initial memory of ever expressing such an interest.

He has since grown to love the craft, especially the thrill of peering through the darkened glass of the helmet and striking the arc to create the tiny weld puddle for the perfect bonding of metal. He even likes the smell.

His art often incorporates found objects, like more than five hundred trampoline springs salvaged post-tornado, which he and fellow artist Michel Pantzer transformed into a monumental ninefoot-tall tornado sculpture, the springs collected after a tornado ripped through his hometown of Rogers.

Discover more of Tom’s inventive metalwork at t-happyman.art.

Mike Parks

Michel Pantzer and Tom Flynn

STEPHEN DRIVER & LOUISE HALSEY POTTERY & WEAVING

Located near the scenic banks of the Mulberry River in the Ozark Mountains, Little Mulberry Gallery is a haven for pottery and weaving enthusiasts.

Stephen Driver, a potter recognized as the 2024 Individual Artist of the Year by the Arkansas Arts Council, shares this space with his wife, Louise Halsey, a 2017 Arkansas Living Treasure for her weaving.

Stephen's passion for pottery began in his high school ceramics class and was further developed through his time at Florida State University, despite not being an art major.

Louise’s parents were visual artists. Her weaving passion, which started in childhood, was profoundly influenced by a trip with her father to a weaving village in Mexico.

Her recent works, focusing on simplified house shapes, invite viewers into a woven narrative of home and structure. Four of her tapestries were shown in the High Fiber: Women to Watch 2012 exhibition at the National Museum of Women in the Arts in Washington, D.C.

Both artists showcase their lifelong dedication to their crafts through vibrant, thoughtful creations.

Their works are displayed at Little Mulberry Gallery and on their Facebook page, Little Mulberry Gallery/ Louise Halsey and Stephen Driver.

Stephen Driver Louise Halsey

Lemon Blueberry Muffins

recipe CATHERINE FREDERICK // image APRIL SIMS SHUTTERSTOCK

Ingredients

• ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature

• zest of 1 lemon, plus 1 teaspoon fresh juice

• 1 cup plus 1 Tablespoon sugar, divided

• 1 large egg, room temperature

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

• ½ teaspoon almond extract

• 2 cups all-purpose flour, divided

• 2 teaspoons baking powder

• ½ teaspoon kosher salt, not table salt

• 2 cups fresh blueberries, more for garnish

• ½ cup buttermilk

• powdered sugar, optional garnish

Method

Preheat oven to 375°. In a medium bowl, cream together butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, and 1 cup sugar until light and fluffy.

Beat in the egg, vanilla, and almond extract until thoroughly combined.

In a separate bowl, gently toss blueberries with ¼ cup of flour. In another bowl, whisk together remaining flour, baking powder, and salt.

Gradually combine the flour and creamed mixtures, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix just until combined.

Gently fold in the flour-coated blueberries. Batter will be thick; do not overmix.

Prepare a jumbo muffin tin or a standard 12-cup muffin tin with non-stick spray. Distribute batter evenly among the cups, filling each about three-quarters full.

Sprinkle the tops of the batter with the Tablespoon of sugar.

Bake for 30 minutes in the jumbo muffin tin or 18-25 minutes in the standard muffin tin, until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.

Allow muffins to cool in the pan for at least 7 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. 1 2 3 5 4 6 7 8 9

Blueberry Lemon Spritz

Ingredients

(makes 1)

• ¼ cup blueberries, frozen, thawed

• 2 slices of lemon, no seeds, more for garnish

• 1 Tablespoon simple syrup, recipe below

• 2 oz. vodka

• 4 oz. sparkling lemonade, or lemon sparkling water

• rosemary sprig, for garnish

Method

For the simple syrup, boil 1 cup of sugar with ½ cup water for 1-2 minutes, let cool. In a glass, lightly muddle blueberries, lemon slices, and simple syrup. Add vodka, stir well. Fill glass with ice and top with sparkling lemonade or lemon sparkling water (will be less sweet). Stir gently and garnish as desired.

Always drink responsibly. Never drink Then drive.

SUPPORT LOCAL

As Fort Smith natives, we are proud to support our community and offer exceptional service to our customers! Discover one-ofa-kind finds at our gift shop and boutique, featuring a curated selection of home décor, fine art, jewelry, and specialty on-tap oils and vinegars from Olivelle. We specialize in unique gifts for special occasions such as weddings, birthdays or even a treat for yourself! For couples on the journey to marriage or parents-tobe, our personalized registry service makes selecting the perfect items seamless and enjoyable. We can also tailor custom gift baskets to suit any celebration or event. Visit our new location and follow us on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates and inspirational ideas!

For over forty-six years, Burton Pools & Spas has been helping families enjoy water for a better life with custom swimming pools and top-quality hot tubs. Founded in 1978 by Northside graduates Dan and David Burton, the company has built over 12,000 pools and installed more than 8,000 hot tubs—turning backyards into personal retreats. Burton is committed to long-term relationships, from expert installation to ongoing care. Their impact goes beyond customers, funding more than fifty water wells in East Africa through donations from big-ticket sales. Locally owned and dedicated to bringing families together, Burton Pools & Spas is here to help you create a backyard you’ll love for years to come.

UNIQUE GIFTS • FINE ART & JEWELRY • GIFT BASKETS

Owners, Josh Palmer and Carey Thompson

Shop Dogs, Rockit and Bleu

better backyards for better living

Since 1978, we've built over 12,000 pools and installed over 8,000 hot tubs. From start to finish, we can help you build the backyard of your dreams.

burtonpools.com

3407 Industrial Park Rd., #B, Van Buren 479.478.8668 eliteroofingllc@aol.com

Elite Roofing is locally owned and operated. We were here when the last storm hit, we will be here when the next one does, and we will be here every day in between. We do residential and commercial roofing and are here to serve you with the best quality possible. We work with all insurance companies and are licensed and insured in both Arkansas and Oklahoma. At Elite Roofing we understand that your home will probably be the largest investment you will ever make. We take pride in knowing that when it comes to your roofing needs, we have you covered! 1213 N. 32nd St., Fort Smith 479.782.3936

Looking to upgrade your property with a fence that stands strong and looks great? The Fence Man delivers top-quality fencing with expert craftsmanship and unbeatable customer service. Whether you need security, privacy, or curb appeal, we’ve got you covered. With free on-site estimates and financing available, there’s never been a better time to invest in your home or business. Trusted by the River Valley for decades, we take pride in every fence we build. Don’t settle for less, choose the best. Call The Fence Man today and let’s build something great together!

Nestled in the heart of downtown Van Buren, Firefly Boutique has been a shopping staple since 2012, offering a curated selection of stylish clothing, accessories, and unique gifts for every occasion. Whether you're searching for the perfect outfit, a statement piece of jewelry, or a one-of-a-kind gift, we’ve got you covered. We carry sizes small to 3X in almost everything from casual tees to stylish tops, dresses, and more. When you shop with us, you’re not just finding something fabulous, you’re supporting a locally owned small business that has been part of the community for over a decade. Shopping local helps keep downtown vibrant and unique, and we’re proud to be a part of that tradition. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for the latest arrivals and promotions.

At Fort Smith Coffee Co., we believe human connection is crucial to wholehearted living. We focus our energy on the complete customer experience to cultivate that connection, emphasizing hospitality, aesthetics, aroma, and taste. In addition to slinging espresso for our regulars, we enjoy welcoming tourists and prospective residents into our inviting spaces. Beyond our cafes, we aim to be a household coffee brand that locals can be proud of. We are actively growing our wholesale program, offering coffee delivery service, breakfast & lunch catering, mobile barista service, and white-label coffee roasting. Visit our website or reach out to learn how we can enhance creativity and boost team morale in your workplace!

At FYZICAL, a locally owned physical therapy clinic, we specialize in helping you Love Your Life! Whether you are recovering from an injury, had surgery, are managing a chronic condition, or struggling with balance or vestibular issues, our experienced therapists will create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs. From orthopedics to vertigo, TMJ to generalized weakness, we can help and accept most major insurance! Our hands-on approach ensures you get the care you need to move confidently, safely and without fear. We are dedicated to providing compassionate, high-quality care that prioritizes your health and recovery. Visit us today and let us help you Love Your Life!

Hollyhock Montessori is a nurturing micro school in Fort Smith, designed for children aged 3-6. Founded by Montessori educator Erin McCarroll and Fort Smith native Ariana Bray, it stands as Arkansas’ first school in the Wildflower network. Our experienced educators tailor educational experiences to the individual interests and needs of each student, fostering a warm and inclusive classroom environment. Hollyhock offers a sliding scale tuition model, making quality education accessible to a broad range of families. We accept EFA vouchers and partner with ACE for kindergarten families. Currently enrolling, Hollyhock Montessori invites you to join our growing community and experience a unique educational journey.

Our beautiful environment is carefully prepared to encourage children’s natural development. We foster independence and support individualized learning through joyful + purposeful work in a small + caring community.

18 Years of Growth & Guidance CREATING

POSITIVE CHANGE IN CHILDREN’S LIVES

In-Sync Pediatric Therapy Center provides Speech, Occupational, Physical, and ABA Therapies for children birth to 21. We specialize in Spectrum Disorders, Cerebral Palsy, Development Delays, Speech Delays, Picky Eaters, Handwriting, and Sensory Processing Disorders, and believe in the potential of every child to grow, develop, and contribute!

ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) Services Orthotics

Occupational, Physical & Speech Therapy Wilbarger Protocol

Therapeutic Listening Therapy STAR Autism Program

Sensory Integration

Handwriting Without Tears

Youth Orthopedic & Sports Physical Therapy SOS Feeding Therapy

479.474.6444

1109 Fayetteville Road, Van Buren 815 Fort Street, Barling OUR THERAPIES AND SUPPLEMENTAL SERVICES INCLUDE:

Call today for a tour of our facility or a full evaluation! inspiringkids@insynctherapy.org | insynctherapy.com

1109 Fayetteville Rd., Van Buren

815 Fort St., Barling 479.474.6444

insynctherapy.com

In-Sync provides professional therapy services to children with special needs throughout the River Valley and Eastern Oklahoma. We offer various specialized therapy services to support the unique needs of every child. Our goal is to provide comprehensive, family-centered, multi-disciplinary care where children can safely learn to live fulfilling lives. We support patients from birth to age 21 and serve patients with a variety of diagnoses. Our team of pediatric specialists includes BoardCertified Behavior Analysts, and Occupational, Physical, and Speech Therapists who work together to create individualized treatment plans. Therapy is carried out in a creative and fun atmosphere where every child can be successful.

johnmaysjewelers.com

Fort Smith’s premier fine jeweler! We are proud to be your local, family-owned jeweler, serving the jewelry and watch needs of Arkansans and Oklahomans for twentyfive years! The Mays family are all Gemological Institute of America (GIA) graduates and proud American Gem Society members. Kevin Mays also serves on the International Board of Directors and is Fort Smith’s only Certified Gemologist Appraiser. In addition to in-house watch and jewelry repair, we can also help design the custom jewelry piece of your dreams. Whether it’s a gorgeous Hearts On Fire diamond, a stunning timepiece, or an exotic gemstone, we are here to serve you. Join us in celebrating twenty-five years as your local, family-owned, trusted jeweler.

jadegravesphoto@gmail.com

479.996.5199

jadegravesphotography.com

I’m a River Valley-based photographer specializing in wedding photography and portraits. My passion is capturing beautiful moments for you to treasure and share with generations to come. With a clean, timeless style, I love finding the balance between flattering poses and the unscripted, natural moments when everyone forgets the camera is there. With over a decade of experience, I have documented hundreds of weddings and captured thousands of portraits. I am dedicated to providing a positive experience and offering highquality, affordable products that you’ll cherish for years.

3335 Industrial Park Rd., Van Buren 479.474.4444 lumberone.org

Lumber One has been and remains the area’s only locally owned and operated full-service lumber yard since opening in May 2002. Lumber One is here to provide a level of service that sets us apart as the best in the marketplace against our competitors. We can supply you with the materials to tackle your projects whether you’re a professional home builder, commercial contractor, or do-it-yourselfer. Lumber One is part of the Greater Fort Smith Association of Home Builders. Our experts can give you the assistance you need, whether it is more information about a product or helping you find the right materials to get the job done right. Visit our new 6,000-squarefoot showroom for all your lumber, tool, and hardware needs.

Luminessence Medi-Spa is a premier medical spa practice in Fort Smith, known for delivering high-quality, innovative aesthetic and confidence-boosting treatments since 2006. Dr. Sumer Phillips and her team embody expertise, personalization, discretion, and a commitment to helping clients achieve their aesthetic goals. Services ranging from injectables, skincare, and cutting-edge laser treatments, Luminessence blends medical precision with a luxurious experience. Our team is dedicated to providing exceptional care, empowering clients to look and feel their best through customized treatment plans, ongoing education, and a focus on natural but noticeable results. Contact us today to enhance your natural beauty and begin your journey to healthier, glowing skin.

Locally owned by Dr. Heather Ray, they offer speech, physical, and occupational therapy to ages birth to 21 years of age. The clinic is committed to meeting every child's unique needs which at times means therapy at home, at school, or even a specialty outlet like Hippotherapy or Aquatics. Her team is specialized and trained to equip each child to meet their goals for increased functional success and independence! Dr. Ray holds an Associate’s of Science and Art, a Bachelor’s in Health Education and Science with PreOT Minor, and a Doctorate in OT. She has advanced training in DIRFloortime, sensory integration, behavioral and emotional regulation techniques, visual screening and eye exercises, aquatic therapy, and Hippotherapy level 1.

8399 Rogers Ave., Fort Smith

479.763.3655 sugarllamas.com/fortsmith

Welcome to Sugar Llamas, a local family-owned dessert bar in the heart of our community. Specializing in delightful mini donuts, refreshing ice cream desserts, artisan coffees, and unique drink mixers, we offer a cozy, family-friendly environment perfect for relaxing and making cherished memories. Whether it's a casual meet-up, a birthday celebration, or a corporate event, our mini donuts are a hit! You’ll discover a world of sweetness at Sugar Llamas in Fort Smith. Dive into the comfort of our family-friendly environment and leave with a smile! Proverbs 16:3. Matthew 6:23.

Looking for the perfect color and the perfect paint? You’ll find it at The Paint Store in Van Buren – we’re here to help! Hands down, the most popular colors can be found here –on large, real sheetrock and wood samples! Details count when it comes to paint, so we ask a lot of questions to enable us to share the best tips and techniques. For thirtyseven years we've kept records of the paint you use – you can depend on consistency with us. Higher quality, better service, excellent knowledge –The Paint Store in Van Buren.

Step into The Potting Shed, a charming gift shop in downtown Alma! Nestled inside, you’ll discover an assortment of devotionals and everyday worship books that nourish the soul. The air is filled with the delightful fragrances of Tyler Candle products and the Capri Blue fragrance line, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Explore thoughtful selections ranging from precious baby gifts to fun jewelry, pampering skincare items, and tasteful home decor. You’ll also find a curated collection of gourmet food items, ensuring there is something for everyone at The Potting Shed! Stop by and see us, we have new items arriving weekly!

Dr. James E. Kelly III is a leading specialist in hand surgery, dedicated to restoring function and improving the quality of life for patients affected by injuries, illnesses, or congenital conditions. With extensive training and decades of experience, Dr. Kelly combines technical precision with an understanding of the hand’s complex anatomy to deliver exceptional outcomes. His expertise extends beyond functionality, as he carefully balances the intricate mechanics of the hand with aesthetic considerations. His distinguished career includes a medical degree from Queen’s University, surgical residencies at McMaster University, and dual board certifications in plastic and hand surgery. Through his practice, Dr. Kelly has helped thousands of patients regain mobility, independence, and confidence, providing lifechanging results tailored to their unique needs.

RESTORING LIVES Healing Hands,

Since 1996, Dr. James E. Kelly Ill has been a leading physician and independent surgeon specializing in plastic, hand, reconstructive, and cosmetic surgery. Board-certified and fellowship-trained, Dr. Kelly helps patients regain mobility, self-esteem, and confidence.

Hand Surgery Microsurgery

Cosmetic Surgery Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery

Our state-of-the-art facility offers a wide range of services, including on-site X-rays, therapies, and enhanced confidentiality for our patients.

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Worried our rates are more expensive than other advertising options because of our exceptional quality? Relax! We offer more affordable pricing and deliver incredible added value, including FREE ad design, editorial coverage, a prime spot in the region’s only digital edition, and an additional placement on our robust website!

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Buy & Sell - Safely and Easily.

Where History Speaks Fort Smith Museum of History

90 percent of your child’s intellect, personality and social skills are developed by age 5.

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Your Comfort, Our Priority.

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Colorectal Cancer: Early Detection Saves Lives

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PROFILES LEGAL LEADERS

Ashleigh Buckley

THE BUCKLEY FIRM

SPENCER VEREEN

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THE LAW OFFICES OF CRAIG L. COOK

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Phil Votaw

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JOHN 3:16 MINISTRIES OFFERS UNIQUE RECOVERY MODEL

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Natural State Artisans

DENNIS (HETE) HETER STAINED GLASS ART

MIKE PARKS

MASTER WOODCARVER

TOM FLYNN METAL SCULPTURE

STEPHEN DRIVER & LOUISE HALSEY POTTERY & WEAVING

Lemon Blueberry Muffins

Ingredients

Method

Blueberry Lemon Spritz

Ingredients

Method

SUPPORT LOCAL

UNIQUE GIFTS • FINE ART & JEWELRY • GIFT BASKETS

better backyards for better living

18 Years of Growth & Guidance CREATING

POSITIVE CHANGE IN CHILDREN’S LIVES

johnmaysjewelers.com

RESTORING LIVES Healing Hands,

SUPPORT LOCAL!

ADVERTISE WITH DO SOUTH® MAGAZINE

WHY CHOOSE DO SOUTH® MAGAZINE?

CIRCULATION & DISTRIBUTION

ALL ABOUT KIDS GUIDE

FORT SMITH’S PREMIER FINE JEWELER