®
SWEETIE
February 2017 DoSouthMagazine.com
CONTENTS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF / OWNER Catherine Frederick CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Scott Frederick MANAGING EDITOR Marla Cantrell CONTRIBUTING WRITERS / PHOTOGRAPHERS Marla Cantrell Catherine Frederick Dwain Hebda Rachael McGrew Addi McNeel John Post Rachel Putnam Jessica Sowards Stoney Stamper James Stefiuk Glenn Wigington GRAPHIC DESIGNER Artifex 323 - Jessica Mays
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PROOFREADER Charity Chambers PUBLISHER Read Chair Publishing, LLC
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INSIDE 12 22
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MARDI GRAS IN THE FORT This month, downtown Fort Smith will be transformed for Mardi Gras. A masquerade ball, concerts, contests, a parade, and lots of great food. Let the good times roll!
ADVERTISING INFORMATION Catherine Frederick - 479.782.1500 Catherine@DoSouthMagazine.com
EDITORIAL INFORMATION Marla Cantrell - 479.831.9116 Marla@DoSouthMagazine.com
THE WATER BENEATH Joe Blair, now seventy-something, can do things on a pair of water skis that seem impossible. His talent earned him a trip to Spain, and a world ranking.
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BEAUTIFUL CHAOS
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BE STILL MY HEART
What happens when you buy a few little piggies for your daughters to raise? A lot of side-splitting antics if you're in the Stamper family.
What could be sweeter for your Valentine than these Raspberry Cheesecake Hearts? It's a delicious ending to a perfect meal!
DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM
©2017 Read Chair Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved. The opinions contained in Do South® are exclusively those of the writers and do not represent those of Read Chair Publishing, LLC. as a whole or its affiliates. Any correspondence to Do South® or Read Chair Publishing, LLC., including photography, becomes the property of Read Chair Publishing, LLC. Do South® reserves the right to edit content and images. Printed in the U.S.A. | ISSN 2373-1893 Cover Image: Mirelle
FOLLOW US Annual subscriptions are $30 (12 months), within the contiguous United States. Subscribe at DoSouthMagazine.com or mail check to 4300 Rogers Avenue, Suite 20-110, Fort Smith, AR, 72903. Single issues are available upon request for $7. Inquiries or address changes, call 479.782.1500.
H
letter from the editor
How many of you remember Valentine's Day parties
who've been through so much together. And
from your elementary school days? I know
at seventy-something, Joe is keeping things
you are smiling! Remember decorating
exciting by competing as a trick skier. He's
your Valentine's box (or paper sack) ever
so good, he was invited to compete in a
so carefully, the one that would soon
world championship in Spain last year. I
be overflowing with cards and funny
know you'll love their story.
messages – and maybe even an “I like you, do you like me” note? Remember
Of course, this month is also about
the way your heart jumped for joy as
Mardi Gras. We featured two epic cele-
you opened each and every one? Those
brations, one in Fort Smith and another
were good times!
in Eureka Springs. Get ready for parades, masquerade balls, and tons of Cajun food!
Today, most of my friends wish each other Happy Valentine's Day on Facebook, which is
Speaking of food, you have to try the Raspberry
sweet but not something tangible that you can
Cheesecake Hearts our food writer, James Stefiuk, is
hold in your hand. Cards are mostly reserved for that
sharing. They are a perfect ending to a Valentine's dinner.
special someone and close family members. But I have one friend
And if you're looking for new ways to celebrate with your special
who looks for just the right Valentines each year, and she sends
someone, check out our story, "Finding Romance Close to Home."
them out to her girlfriends. She tells the women in her life that she loves them, and that they mean the world to her. I get one
Finally, if a wedding is in your future, you must check out our
every year, and I can't tell you how happy it makes me.
Wedding Guide inside this issue. There is so much great information, with local experts weighing in on making your special
She came up with the idea after one particularly solitary Valen-
day everything you've ever dreamed of.
tine's Day (haven't we all had one of those?). And since then, she's made so many people smile by this one small act. I was
Enjoy, and Happy Valentine's Day! I hope it's a great day, filled
thinking about that when I selected my DIY this month. It's a
with love and happiness, just like when you were a kid and
take on a Valentine, with a bit of a twist thrown in. I simply
carried your Valentine's box to school with so much pride and
made "fortune cookies" out of scrapbook paper, added a
anticipation you could almost burst! XOXO!
"fortune," which is more like a tiny love note. One of our stories in this issue that's infused with love is "The Water Beneath." Joe and Mary Blair are a wonderful couple
~Catherine
Follow Do South® Magazine
To reserve this free space for your charitable non-profit organization, email: Editors@DoSouthMagazine.com
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UPCLOSE&PERSONAL
&
UP CLOSE PERSONAL
Shirley Lovett Owner Unique Florist 107 Market Place Alma, Arkansas 479.632.4449 Find us on Facebook
ABOUT Shirley Lovett I've been the owner of Unique Florist in Alma for nearly forty years. In that time, I've gotten to serve the people of this community from the births of their babies through their final days. My customers have become friends, and my co-workers my family. Every day, people stop by just to see how "Miss Shirley" is doing. I can't imagine a better job. We offer delivery to the Fort Smith area, and as far away as Ozark and Mountainburg. Our designer, Betsy Reynolds, is an artist and puts so much love in her work. This Valentine's Day, Unique Florist will deliver, or you can stop by to pick up fresh flower arrangements, candy, stuffed animals, and balloons.
DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM
UPCLOSE&PERSONAL
WORDS TO LIVE BY:
For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. -John 3:16 LIST 3 THINGS YOU LOVE:
FAVORITE FOOD FROM YOUR CHILDHOOD?
BEST ADVICE YOUR PARENTS GAVE YOU?
Perfume, steak, jewelry.
Mac and cheese.
My dad told me to work hard, and my mom told me to be honest.
WHAT’S THE LONGEST YOU'VE GONE WITHOUT SLEEP, AND WHY?
Twenty-four hours, and that was during a Valentine's Day rush at work. WHAT’S YOUR IDEA OF A PERFECT MEAL?
WHAT'S THE MOST SENTIMENTAL THING YOU OWN?
A four-course dinner with wine from Wiederkehr Weinkellar Restaurant in Altus.
A quilt made from the shirts that belonged to my late-son, Andy.
WHAT’S THE MOST ADVENTUROUS THING YOU’VE EVER DONE?
NAME SOMEONE YOU ADMIRE.
Get into the flower business after years of working as a realtor. WHAT WAS YOUR BEST VALENTINE'S DAY EVER?
My best year was four years ago. Unique Florist had eleven vans running, thirtythree people working, and my staff hired a barbershop quartet to come sing to me.
HOW MANY HOURS DO YOUR STAFF WORK THE WEEK BEFORE VALENTINE'S DAY?
Around eighty hours. WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE FLOWER?
Gerber daisies. They're long-lasting, and they look like a field flower but are still so elegant.
Princess Diana because she was so giving and caring. WHAT'S A FASHION TREND YOU WISH WOULD COME BACK?
I love high heels!
WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST JOB? WHY DO PEOPLE LOVE GETTING FLOWERS?
I was a carhop in Marshfield, Missouri.
Because they're beautiful, fragrant, thoughtful. And there's love behind each order.
WHAT KEEPS YOU WORKING WHEN MANY PEOPLE YOUR AGE HAVE RETIRED?
FAVORITE SONG FROM YOUR TEEN YEARS?
"Crazy" by Patsy Cline. WHAT DID YOU DO AS A KID THAT GOT YOU INTO TROUBLE?
I stuck my tongue out at my mother once.
DO YOU REMEMBER THE FIRST TIME YOU GOT FLOWERS?
I love my job. I love my people. I just love Unique Florist.
When I filed for divorce from my first husband. I filed the papers, and he sent flowers.
WHAT'S THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS?
FARTHEST YOU’VE BEEN AWAY FROM HOME?
California. DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM
I think it goes back to my parents' advice. I'm hardworking and honest. I learn people's names. I remember who likes baby's breath and who doesn't.
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poetry
january morning LINEs Glenn Wigington
I wake to the sound of wind whistling past my windows, plastic panes vibrating like tuning forks playing come-and-go. Tiny snowballs swirl and dip in the north wind struggling to reach frozen ground. Poking my nose above the edge of heavy quilts I probe the air for heat and find none. Mama calls a warning for time and school. Smells of bacon frying and morning milk float in from the kitchen and tempt me to leave the narcotic warmth of my bed. I know the floor will be like frost on the grass and my toes will burn when I put them there, but my hunger is greater than the dread of dancing on cold linoleum while I dress. DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM
DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM
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calendar
FEBRUARY 4
TH
Submit your events to editors@dosouthmagazine.com
February 5 Touchdown Throw-Down Super Bowl Party Fort Smith firstteefortsmith.org
February 11 Rhonda Vincent and the Rage Fort Smith girlsshelterfs.org
Have a great time watching the Super Bowl at the First Tee of Fort Smith headquarters. Lots of prizes, giveaways after each score, hors d'oeuvres, dessert and drinks. Tickets are $30. Money raised benefits First Tee.
A great night of music at the ArcBest Corporation Performing Arts Center with Bluegrass/Country artist, Rhonda Vincent and the Rage. Proceeds benefit the Girls Shelter of Fort Smith. There are even VIP tickets that include a meet-and-greet with Rhonda. See website for pricing.
February 4 Pardi Gras Fort Smith fortsmithmuseum.org Celebrate Pardi Gras at the old Shipley Baking Company in downtown Fort Smith. Fun starts at 6pm with cocktails and the music of Don Bailey followed by a Cajun dinner, live auction and dancing to the music of Full House. Tickets are $100 per person. Tables for ten sell for $1,000. Dinner and drinks are included.
5 TH
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February 11 Good Samaritan Clinic's Best Night of the Year Fort Smith goodsamaritan.com Support the Good Samaritan Clinic and have a great night out! This black-tie optional event will be held at Golden Living. Music by the Klocks, a silent and live auction, delicious food, and surprises throughout the night. See website for pricing.
DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM
February 11 Asleep at the Wheel Alma almapac.org Head to the Alma Performing Arts Center to hear Asleep at the Wheel. The group has been the most important force in keeping the sound of Western swing alive and has garnered critical praise throughout their long career. See website for pricing.
calendar
THETOPTENTHETOPTEN 12
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February 12 Fort Smith Marathon Fort Smith fortsmithmarathon.com
Heartbreak in Peanuts, at the Regional Art Museum, includes fifty reproductions of the original comic strips that focus on lost love. The opening reception is February 14, with appetizers, a jazz band, open bar, and giveaways. See website for pricing. The exhibit runs February 15-April 16 and is free.
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Ready to run? The Fort Smith Marathon begins downtown and has something for everyone. You can enter the marathon, the halfmarathon, or relays. See website for details and pricing.
FEBRUARY 14 - APRIL 16
February 17-19 Fort Smith Home Show Fort Smith fortsmithhomebuilders.com Need ideas for sprucing up your home and property? Come to the Fort Smith Convention Center and find inspiration and catch up on the latest trends. Vendors will be on hand to answer questions. See website for pricing.
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February 15-19th Circus Oz Fayetteville waltonartscenter.org You'll be mesmerized by Circus Oz's two-hour array of physical feats, spectacular skills and hilarious antics at The Walton Arts Center. Aerialists defy gravity, jugglers propel unlikely objects in complicated cacophonies, acrobats fall up and stand over. See website for pricing.
17-19 T H February 14 - April 16 Heartbreak in Peanuts Fort Smith fsram.org
DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM
February 26 Newsboys Love Riot Fort Smith fortsmithconventioncenter.org Here's your chance to see the Newsboys Love Riot in concert, including their all new theatrical experience God’s Not Dead LIVE! Rivals. Several ticket options are available for the Christian Pop/Rock group, including a Friends and Family option. See website for pricing.
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entertainment
Mardiras G
IN THE FORT review Marla Cantrell images courtesy Bordertown Events
The Mardi Gras celebration got its start in medieval Rome, spread to France, and then to the French colony of New Orleans in the 1600s. In 1875, Louisiana made Mardi Gras a legal holiday. The tradition of parades, masquerade balls, and elaborate banquets is alive and well, and this year, Fort Smith, Arkansas is getting in on the fun. Bordertown Events, a local group that raises awareness and money for those in need, is organizing a series of events that take place this month. Charities benefitting are Earthbound Angels, Heart to Heart, the Riverfront Blues Festival, and Make-A-Wish. There is something for everyone, including a parade on February 25. GrammyÂŽ Award winner, Chubby Carrier will be performing at the Masquerade Ball on February 27, there's a King and Queen contest at The Sound Room on February 25, and a Fat Tuesday party on February 28. For more information, visit fortsmithmardigras.com.
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entertainment
Kids Village
F E B R U A R Y 12
Pendergraft Park Battle of the Bands
200 Garrison Avenue
Hero's Bar and Grill
Begins at 11am
1002 Garrison Avenue
Free to attend
7pm
Bring the kids out for a day of family fun. There will be crafts,
Bands pay $75 to enter. Must sign up by February 7
a bounce-around, even Mardi Gras mask making. If the
fortsmithmardigras.com
weather doesn't cooperate, there will be an alternate location
Bands from across the area are encouraged to compete in the
announced at the event and on social media. This event bene-
Battle of the Bands. A panel of judges will be on hand to pick
fits Earthbound Angels.
the first round of bands to go to the next competition. Those winners will compete on February 19 at Wishbone's Music and
Emi Sunshine
Chicken Joint at 509 Garrison Avenue. The overall winners will be announced at The Sound Room at 817 Garrison Avenue, on February 25. There are cash prizes for first place winners in the band and solo/duo categories. See website for details. F E B R U A R Y 13 - 2 3 Live Art Demos/Exhibits Several locations downtown No fee to participate. Must sign up by February 7 fortsmithmardigras.com
Emi Sunshine and the Rain
Watch as these talented individuals, including everyone from
The Sound Room
high school students to professional artists, paint, draw, sculpt,
817 Garrison Avenue
and photograph. Several venues downtown are hosting the
2pm and 3:30pm
artists, so check the Fort Smith Mardi Gras Facebook page for
$5-$10 donation suggested
updates, or just show up downtown.
Tickets available at the door Emi Sunshine is a twelve-year-old East Tennessee prodigy who sings
If you want to sign up to participate and learn about the cash
"old-time" music her own way. Her unique blend of roots music is
prizes, visit the website. The artists' completed works will be on
equal parts Americana, bluegrass, gospel, and country, with a little
display on February 25 at the Goins Furniture Building at 900
bit of blues thrown in for good measure. She's appeared at the
Garrison Avenue.
Grand Ole Opry and the Ryman Auditorium. This event benefits Make-A-Wish and is sponsored by the Mower Shop.
FEB R UARY 25 Mardi Gras Parade Street Village
North Sixth to North Tenth, along Garrison Avenue
Garrison Avenue from Second to Tenth Streets
4pm
9am-10pm
It's not Mardi Gras without a parade! There will be a Second Line
Free to attend
composed of Northside, Southside, and UAFS band members, led
Garrison Avenue transforms on February 25, with a day and night
by Prince Albert of New Orleans. Organizers encourage attendees
of activities. Street vendors, including food, arts and crafts, and
to wear costumes. Come see the floats, catch some Mardi Gras
merchandise from local establishments will be available.
beads, and take tons of photos.
DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM
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entertainment
Fun at The Sound Room
FEBRUARY 27
817 Garrison Avenue Begins at 5:30pm
Masquerade Ball
479.763.1950
The Sound Room
$5-$10 (suggested) at the door
817 Garrison Avenue
The winner of the Battle of the Bands will be announced. The final
Doors open at 5:30pm
three bands, and solo/duos will be competing. Come support the
$12-$45
bands and watch as a panel of judges picks the winners. This event
479.783.2505
benefits The Riverfront Blues Society.
This
black-tie
optional
ball features music by From 8-10pm, rap artists from the area will be performing. Cost is
Grammy® Award winner
$5 at the door, and $8 for couples. At 10pm, the Mardi Gras King
Chubby Carrier, an Amer-
and Queen Contest begins. Dress up in costume, sign up to enter
ican Zydeco musician.
and let the fun begin. Judges will be picked from the crowd.
There will also be a live art Chubby Carrier
Mardi Gras Crawl
auction. Advance tick-ets at R. Landry's New Orleans
Garrison Avenue
Café are $12. Tickets are $15 at The Sound Room door. Add dinner
Begins at 8pm
to your ticket and the cost increases to $35 in advance, and $40
Just purchase a cup for $5 from one of the merchandise booths
at The Sound Room door. The meal is catered by R. Landry's New
along Garrison Avenue, then head to the participating pubs/
Orleans Café and includes Jambalaya, red beans and rice, Craw-
establishments for deeply discounted drinks. Remember: drink
fish Étouffée, gumbo, salad, corn, and French bread.
responsibly. Never drink and drive. FEBRUARY 28 Fat Tuesday R. Landry's New Orleans Café 613 Garrison 5-10pm 479.783.2505 Celebrate Fat Tuesday at R. Landry's New Orleans Café. The Trey Johnston Band will be performing. Trey is a bluesy singer/ songwriter who's a Louisiana native now living in North Little Rock. Giveaways, special drinks, and more.
Dirtfoot
Official Mardi Gras Bash featuring Dirtfoot The Sound Room 817 Garrison Avenue
Have fun celebrating Mardi Gras in the Fort! Send your photos to editors@dosouthmagazine.com. We may use them on our social media accounts, on our website, or in a future issue of Do South® Magazine.
10:30pm $10 in advance; $12 at The Sound Room door fortsmithmardigras.com Dirtfoot calls its band the only Front Porch, Foot Stomping, Gypsy, Punk, Country, Grumble, Boogie band in the land. The six-man band hails from Louisiana, the hallowed ground of Mardi Gras music. Show up at The Sound Room to hear the band and celebrate Mardi Gras.
DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM
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lifestyle community
DO SOUTH
®
CARES February is American Heart Month, devoted to getting the word out about cardiovascular disease. Each year, this malady takes more lives than any other illness in the U.S. Here are ways to lessen the risk. Please take a look and make a commitment to be your healthiest in 2017.
SCHEDULE A VISIT WITH YOUR DOCTOR TO TALK ABOUT HEART HEALTH.
INCREASE HEALTHY EATING.
It's important to schedule regular check-ups even if you
For example, swap out salt for fresh or dried herbs
think you are not sick. Partner with your doctor and
and spices.
Cook heart-healthy at home at least 3 times each week and make your favorite recipe lower sodium.
health care team to set goals for improving your heart health, and don't be afraid to ask and trust their advice.
TAKE MEDICATION AS PRESCRIBED. Talk with your doctor about the importance of
ADD EXERCISE TO YOUR DAILY ROUTINE.
understanding high blood pressure and cholesterol medications. If you're having trouble taking your
Start off the month by walking 15 minutes, 3 times each
medicines on time or if you're having side effects, ask
week. By mid-month, increase your time to 30 minutes,
your doctor for help.
3 times each week. Source: CDC.gov
TAKE STEPS TO QUIT SMOKING. If you currently smoke, quitting can cut your risk for heart disease and stroke. Learn more at the CDC’s Smoking and Tobacco Use website (CDC.gov).
DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM
lifestyle
PRACTICE HEALTHY LIVING HABITS Eat a healthy diet
Maintain a healthy weight
Be active on most days
Don't smoke or use tobacco
Limit alcohol use
TALK TO YOUR HEALTH CARE TEAM ABOUT THE
ABCS
Aspirin when appropriate
Blood pressure control
Cholesterol management
DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM
Smoking cessation
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entertainment
Leave Me
By Gayle Forman | Algonquin Books of Chapel Hill | 340 pages | $26.95 review Marla Cantrell
Maribeth Klein doesn't have time for
somewhere to heal. Staying at home,
a heart attack. She works for a New
she realizes, might kill her.
York magazine named Frap where deadlines don't stop for any reason.
In the days that follow, she rents a stark
She has four-year-old twins, Oscar and
apartment in Pittsburg in a neighbor-
Liv, who need her attention to thrive.
hood she's never seen before. She'd
She has a husband whose life seems
left behind her phone and computer in
much simpler than hers since he's not
New York, so she has little to do but
burdened by all the responsibility Mari-
read and think.
beth feels twenty-four hours a day. The guilt she feels is immeasurable. So when her chest twitches, she thinks
Each day, she writes her children, telling
the cause might be anxiety. When
them what she loves most about them,
nausea ensues, Maribeth blames the
although she never mails the letters.
Chinese food she's just eaten. At forty-
She develops a friendship with her two
four years old, she can't imagine her
neighbors, a young man and woman
heart might be to blame.
who don't pry, who don't ask questions about where she's from, or what
And that's why she ignores the symp-
demons she might be fighting.
toms. Luckily, she has an appointment the next day with her ob-gyn, and when
Maribeth finds a doctor to treat her,
her doctor sees her, she sends Maribeth to the hospital where she's
a man who befriends her, teaching her how to relax and laugh
told she has indeed had a heart attack.
again. She meets a woman who has secrets of her own, and through her, we get to know more about Maribeth's back story,
After a harrowing stay, she's back at home, unable to rest the way
before her marriage, before her kids.
she's supposed to. The kids bring her books to read to them and wonder when she's going to get dinner on the table. Her husband
It is in this time of self-reflection that Maribeth's broken heart
Jason seems not to understand how sick she is and returns to work
starts to heal. The question that remains is what that means for
as soon as he can. He brings in Maribeth's mother, who's not fond
her future. Will she stay gone forever? Will the pull of her old life
of cooking and cleaning. Who becomes just another person for
bring her back to her family and the life that was doing her in?
Maribeth to tend.
And if she does return, what will be different?
Which is why, on a day when Maribeth feels as if she can't go on,
The answers make Leave Me a thought-provoking novel, and one
she withdraws a chunk of cash from the bank and walks away.
that will have you pulling for this woman who's working so hard
She doesn't have a plan in place, just a survivalist's need to find
to pull her life back together after such a great fall.
DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM
DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM
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pets
Save My Life and Change Yours F
M
Bear
F
Bailey F
M
Finley
Loca M
Stevie
Righty
Humane Society of the Ouachitas Donations are always needed and greatly appreciated. 368 Polk County Road 50 | Mena, AR | 479.394.5682 | Tue. - Sat. 10am-2pm | www.hsomena.org | Each month, Do SouthÂŽ donates this page to local and regional non-profit animal shelters. If you work with a shelter and would like to reserve this space, please email editors@dosouthmagazine.com. DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM
pets
21
Lost and Found
E
ach
Do
they'd one day find her.
South® features an
month,
When they saw her photo
animal rescue shel-
in Do South®, their hearts
ter, devoting a page to
raced. Their sweet dog
photos of pets in need
was safe and living at
of a forever home. Many
Bubba's Rescue.
of those pets have found homes
after
appearing
Before the day ended,
in Do South , which is
Princess, whose real name
a
thing.
is Lily Bug, had been
But in December 2016,
reunited with her family.
we had something hap-
The reunion was heart-
®
heartwarming
pen that was new and
warming
exciting for us.
and
oh,
so
sweet. Her family held her and hugged her and thanked Bubba's Rescue. And then they took Lily Bug home.
Bubba's Rescue, in Waldron, Arkansas, contacted us shortly after we delivered our first magazines. They wanted us to know that
Stories like this one bring joy to all of us who love our pets, who
one of the dogs we'd featured, a gorgeous girl they'd named
understand they're a big part of our family. We're so thankful we
Princess, had been reunited with her owners.
got to play a small role in this happy homecoming.
It seems that her family had been looking for her since she'd
For more on Bubba's Rescue, visit their Facebook page, or call
gone missing in January 2015. The family never gave up, believing
them at 479.637.0255.
DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM
22
people
The Water Beneath
THE JOE BLAIR STORY words Marla Cantrell images Courtesy Joe and Mary Blair Joe Blair
I
t is a gray winter morning, just days after the year's first snow, and the wind is blowing as if it wants something to fall down. But
inside Joe and Mary Blair's house on Shadow Lake in Greenwood, Arkansas, the outside world appears as calm as a sleeping kitten. A row of windows shows the silvery water that dances on the shore of the Blairs' property. A robin clutches the branch of a tree, its orange belly bright as an M&M. Joe stands with his hands on his hips, looking out. He is wearing jeans, a gray thermal shirt, a gold wedding band that catches the sun. Mary sits nearby, watching her husband. Her eyes are dark brown, beautiful. Her smile is even better. The two talk the way good married couples do. Joe will start a story, omit a fact, and Mary supplies the answer. Mary brags on Joe, and he pulls his fingers through his silver hair, blushes, and says, "Oh, Mary." There is plenty to brag about. Last year, Joe was chosen by the American Water Ski Association to compete in the 35+ Water Ski World Championships (his category was 65+) which took place in SeseĂąa, Spain in September. (The categories 35+ and 65+ simply mean thirty-five and older, and sixty-five and older, respectively.)
DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM
people
It came at a time when Joe could use a big win. In November
In those moments, every muscle is in play. His mind is working
of 2015, after much prompting from Mary, he'd gone to the
ahead, seeing every possibility, visualizing every flick of his
doctor to see about a lump that had formed on his leg. As an
wrist, every turn his ankle must make. On the water, Joe is as
avid biker, skier, gym devotee, Joe figured the knot was just an
alive as he's ever been. On the water, he remembers the turns
injury. But when the test results came back, they showed Joe
that led him there.
had lymphoma. To see the beginning, you have to go back even further than Mary took the news hard. But Joe didn't waver. He said, "I
Joe. You have to see his mom, born in 1907, and his dad, born
want my life to stay the same." He went to the gym every day.
in 1901. You have to imagine them, (she was thirty-nine years
He kept riding his bike. He ate well, mostly vegetables, the way
old) in a travel trailer in 1946 making their way through the
he has for a good long while.
South on their way to California. Joe's dad wanted to show Joe's mom the world. Her life had not been easy, and she was
If anything changed at all, it was that he napped a bit more
about to become a mother. Abandoned as an infant and left in
than usual. When worry set in, he
a basket at an apartment building in
held fast to his faith. He prayed. Mary
New York City, she later became one
prayed. They helped each other.
of the children who rode the Orphan Train in search of a home.
He completed radiation treatment, which began in December of 2015,
In Little Rock, Joe's mom started
and all is well. He goes in for tests
having some trouble with her preg-
every three months, but soon he'll
nancy, but after a doctor's visit, they
only have to test twice a year. As he
pushed on. When they reached Fort
says this, he is praising the treatment
Smith, she said she wasn't willing to
he received in Fort Smith, and the care
have her baby in a travel trailer, so
everyone involved took with him.
the Blairs stayed put. After Joe had arrived, the lure of California faded.
In April of last year, he was skiing again. And not just skiing for recreation. When
What Joe remembers was being an
Joe skis, he's usually training for a tour-
Joe and Mary Blair
nament. To make matters a little more interesting, Joe is a trick skier, one of
only child whose parents loved him. "Everybody was poor back then," he says, "so we didn't notice it. We
those amazing athletes who does feats of fancy on a pair of skis.
played sandlot baseball. I was ten when one family got a TV. That was a big deal. I grew up on Alabama Street, and the city
Watching Joe ski is a beautiful thing. He will turn his back to
limits ended at Fiftieth. They'd come out and oil the dirt roads.
the boat and turn back around again, or lift one foot into a
It was a different time."
stirrup, or jump the wakes in the water. He is one fluid motion after another, like a dancer on waves.
As Joe got a bit older, he discovered skiing magazines and saw glossy photos of skiers, the spray of water behind them, the look
In competitions, the goal is to do as many tricks as you can in
of joy spread across their tanned faces. And then, he came across
the time allotted. Joe's numbers are impressive. There are two
a copy of Popular Mechanics, not surprising since his dad was an
twenty-second runs, and on the first, he'll do thirteen tricks.
auto mechanic. In it, there were plans on how to make wooden
The boat turns to take another swath through the water, and
skis. His father, talented in so many ways, did make them, and
Joe does twelve more. The pace is incredibly fast, and one of
eventually, the family owned a fifteen-foot wooden boat with a
the biggest goals is never to stumble or fall.
small horsepower motor to go with the homemade skis.
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Not exactly a heavenly setup, but it didn't slow down Joe, who
narrow streets. They marveled at the way the town shut down
was twelve years old at the time. He and his parents, neither of
from four to eight or so in the evening, for siestas. If they were
whom could swim, would head to Wister Lake or Lake Tenkiller
hungry during those times, their only option was a sandwich
in Oklahoma on weekends, and Joe would spend the day with
at their hotel.
them on the water. Sometimes, Joe would bring a friend. The motor on their boat was so small, it had a hard time pulling Joe. "I drank a lot of lake water,"
U.S. Team in Spain
Joe says of that time. "I spent a lot of time sinking." When he was thirteen, on a trip to Cypress Gardens in Florida, he saw professional skiers doing tricks like the Human Pyramid. Joe thought it was the most amazing thing he'd ever seen. Back at home, he was teaching himself
tricks. He'd
turn
around, holding one foot out to the side, teaching himself to trick ski. Before long, he was competing in tournaments,
When the competition ended, they'd made international friends
and gaining the knowledge that helped him excel at this sport.
and memories that sustain them still. The U.S. Team took the gold. Canada came in second. France third. As for Joe individu-
The only break Joe's taken from skiing was for about a decade
ally, he came in fifth, meaning that at the end of the competition,
when life got incredibly busy with family and work. But once the
his world ranking was number five in his age division.
Blairs built their house on this lake in the 1980s, when Joe was barely forty, he returned to the water. Mary was right beside
He has no plans to slow down. "Trick skiing keeps you
him, driving the boat, coaching him as he got better and better.
jumping. You're always learning something. Mary and I have made so many friends. And we're a team in this. I couldn't do
All that devotion paid off. Joe and Mary felt it as they arrived
it without her."
in Spain in September of last year. Here they were, meeting the best skiers on the planet, for a competition that would test
Asked what life would have been like without skiing, and
Joe and every member of the U.S. team. The lake they skied
Joe laughs. "I'd probably have a whole lot more money." But
on was perfect. Calm waters, about fifty feet wide, just right.
then he seems to reflect for a minute, and he says, "But what
Joe skied in the mornings, with the chill still in the air. Mary
would be the fun of that?"
was in the boat with the crew, her job to release the rope should Joe fall. In skiing crowds, it's called "pulling the pin."
Outside the silvery water continues to rush the shore of Shadow
At lunchtime, he and Mary ate in a tent set up for the athletes
Lake. In May, Joe will be in Lawton, Oklahoma, competing
and listened as dozens of languages were spoken.
again. But before that, he'll be out on this lake, dressed in a wetsuit, skis on, his heart soaring, feeling the water bend and
On their off time, they explored Spain, the old buildings, the
quake beneath his feet.
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lifestyle
Angry Mama Microwave Cleaner
does it work?
A Do SouthÂŽ Review words Catherine Frederick images Angry Mama Microwave Cleaner
DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM
lifestyle
I placed a tiny woman in my microwave, and boy was she angry! I’m sure it didn’t help matters that I filled her up with water, vinegar, and lemon juice and watched her spin ‘round and ‘round until steam spewed from her plastic head. That Angry Mama got to work, and she brought some fun to my kitchen.
What’s the deal? The Angry Mama Microwave Cleaner may be one of the cutest kitchen gadgets I’ve ever purchased. I know the use of vinegar and water are nothing new when it comes to cleaning your microwave, but placing those ingredients inside a plastic reservoir crafted to look like an angry mama who’s about to blow her top is something new.
What’s the claim? The claim is if you use Angry Mama she’ll soften stuck-on food and gunk from the inside of your microwave. Simply fill her up with water, vinegar, and lemon juice (optional), secure the top, then place her in the microwave for seven minutes and watch as steam spews from her head. The steam produced from her pressurized head allows you to quickly and easily remove dried on splatters and debris.
What’s the cost? I paid $9.99 plus tax for Angry Mama at my local Bed Bath & Beyond. You can order it online (try Amazon), but you’ll have the added cost of shipping and handling.
What’s the verdict? Does she work? Absolutely. Do you really, really need it? Perhaps not. For me, it was all about convenience and cuteness. I’ve already gifted an Angry Mama to my motherin-law (who is not an Angry Mama). Sure, you could just boil vinegar and water in the microwave, but the thought of spilling boiling water on myself as I remove the Have a product you’d like us to review? Send your ideas to editors@dosouthmagazine.com.
bowl from the microwave is not very appealing to me. Angry Mama is removed from the microwave by her arms, which stay warm, not hot, so she’s much safer. You can even use the remaining warm water to wipe out your microwave! Bottom line: Angry Mama worked for me. She’s adorable even when angry, plus she’s dishwasher safe and chemical free as well!
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for love of the
STORY words and image Jessica Sowards
I DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM
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people
I had written my first short story before I was halfway through
forever. I do remember sitting at that old desk in the dining
elementary school. It was a riveting tale about a bi-species gal
room of my childhood home, surveying my heart in paragraph
named Uni, half unicorn and half pegasus, being raised in the
form, and typing bold and centered at the top of the page,
bustling city of Unilopolis. She faced the hardships of prejudice
"BUDDY." And no matter what the contents or the wording,
and bigotry and dreamed of a city where all people got along.
that was the day I learned what it meant to bleed experiences onto pages and heal a heart through words.
I can't say it was my best work. I wanted to write something real and deep and for the years I tried to write fiction, I found myself
In the two decades that have passed since Buddy left, I have
reaching for loftier things. In fact, I think to this day, Uni probably
told a lot of stories. During my teenage years, I lived for the
stands as my most involved fiction piece. A couple of years after
thrill of something lovely to write. Lovely it was, and reckless
writing that little story, binding
and foolish. Oh, I'd shout "Stop
it in a construction paper cover
the car!" so we could get out
and settling it into a forever
Jessica Sowards
home in my dad's file cabinet, I wrote another short story.
and dance beneath the stars. I'd drive for hours for a surprise, find the cliffs with the city view and tiptoe right to the edge to
I was twelve, and a daily volun-
feel a thrill that might incite
teer at the local animal shelter.
a wordy flow. I'd be unpre-
I'd fallen head over heels for
dictable for no reason but to
a long-haired shepherd dog
confuse people and write about
named Buddy, and in a bet with
being a living question mark.
my dad over a game of Chinese
I would woo the boys just to
Checkers, I won the right to
write about what it felt like to
bring the dog home. I don't
smell summer and romance on
remember how long Buddy was
my hair. But eventually, those
with us. Long enough for me to
firecracker romances and silly
become absolutely smitten with
thrills stopped satisfying.
him. Then he bit the neighbor's granddaughter, and they threat-
I wanted a deeper story to tell.
ened to sue. Buddy had to go.
And because I didn't really know about the real Truth
I took to the computer, a boxy
and the real Deep, I assumed
Macintosh that sat on top of my
it must be found in sadness. I
dad's dark brown wooden desk.
wanted a sad story. I wanted a
I cried the whole time I typed,
sad story so much that I would
all about the way that silly dog's
choose stupidity for the sake
paws felt and the way his breath
of the sorrow. I broke my own
smelled and how wild the injus-
heart more times than I could
tice was of his conviction. "He was only playing," I ascertained.
count, and I kept on breaking it. Again and again, breaking and
"He didn't mean to hurt her. She hit him in the face." I even
running in a cycle of self-destruction and angst. Until I met the
spoke of the way he looked out of the back window as the
living God in a Golden Corral bathroom at one in the morning.
shelter employees drove him away.
And I wrote a story. About hope, and about fear and about
I don't remember everything that story said. Perhaps it's on a
understanding that I didn't understand. The sadness began to
floppy disk or in the same file folder with Uni, or maybe it's gone
dissipate. My life began to form direction. A short while later, I
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met womanhood in a hospital room with an eight-pound baby
long romances and star-crossed trysts. I have heard stories of
boy cradled in my arms.
faithfulness, steadfastness and stewarding. I've heard of hard
work and broken hearts and the way God mends. I've heard of
That was when I realized my story was not my own. I spent the
miracles, so many I can't even count them all.
next ten years telling the stories of sons, telling the way they all entwined, telling what it was to grow up with them. I told
At some point, the need to know more spilled over, and I real-
about their triumphs and their firsts, about the things I learned
ized it was expressed in every place of my life. My home is full
and the things they discovered. I wrote about our adventures,
of second-hand clothes, reclaimed furniture, Craigslist saddles
our road trips, our meals and our milestones. And eventually, I
and hand-painted art. Without even realizing it, what started as
realized I was lying a little. Because I cried at night and always
a choice of frugality became a way of life for the story collector.
felt like a failure. So I started to write about that too. I wrote
Granddaddy's office chair, my late aunt's jean jacket from the
about motherhood in the most raw and real way and I was
1980s, my great-grandmother's hutch. All these meager things
surprised to find I wasn't alone.
made mighty by the story they tell. And from the house into
the yard, I find myself always questioning. With the mutt dog I
Then, as my twenties dwindled, a tornado came. It killed, and it
found in a ditch hot on my heels, I walk to the horse pasture in
stole and it destroyed the life of someone I loved. And I wrote a
the morning. I stare into the eyes of my rescue horses, the same
story. I typed it at my kitchen table, on a sleek silver Mac, while
deep brown as my daddy's old desk, and I tell them every day,
son number four nursed, his sweet, chubby hands clutching my
"I wish I knew your story."
shirt. I cried while I wrote it and then I hit enter and the views climbed into the millions.
I just turned thirty-two. Most days I feel like I have not lived enough to know much at all. I have a foundation of identity as
In what felt like a blink, everything changed. It was beautiful
a child of God and the bride of Christ. Upon that is one struc-
and bewildering. It was worthy of the telling, but I could hardly
ture, built of many parts. I am a mother and wife and even a
sort it out. But I found lifelong dreams being fulfilled; I found
writer, a cook and a photographer and a minister. They are all
wildest imaginations being surpassed. And through it all, I
pretty pictures on the walls of who I am. I have been reckless
wrote. Here and there, in articles and clips. Then as my eyes
and I have been faithful; I have adventured and stayed put; I
opened more and more to the importance of the story, I started
have learned to listen. Now I don't know for sure, because I still
asking a lot of questions. I questioned God, and I told Him I
have a lot of life to live, but I'm pretty sure that at the core of
wanted to know more of Him. He began to reveal Himself to
everything, I am a storyteller. Living this life for the love of the
me. And I began to see His heart for people. So friends and
story, to worship, to nurture, to listen and to grow, to write and
strangers alike, I asked them, "What is your story?"
to tell of beauty and redemption, of sadness, love, pain and the ways of God and humanity.
They told them to me. They told me their funny anecdotes and their deepest wounds. All around me, I found there were
So I’ll keep collecting them, and the structure of who I am will
stories waiting to be told, and I gathered them up like some
grow, built by the stories told and lessons learned. I'm grateful
avid collector. I learned that the key to great storytelling resides
for each one, and hold them close, knowing how much trea-
far deeper in the listening than it does in the words. Oh, the
sure they hold.
things I've heard. Stories of moonshiners and movers and
shakers. Stories of lack and poverty, of best-days-ever, of life-
Follow Jessica on her blog @thehodgepodgedarling.blogspot.com
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shop
Local Love! words Catherine Frederick imageS Rachael McGrew & vendors
Marrakesh 8”X8” Tile
D&D FLOOR COVERING 479.474.0533
Kitchen Whimsy Wind Chime, Inspired Floral Birdbath and Portly Turtle Key Finder by Evergreen
JENNIFER’S GIFT SHOP AT SPARKS HEALTH
Delicious Seasonal and Celebration Cookie Cakes
GREAT AMERICAN COOKIES 479.452.9999
479.441.4221
Perrier-Jouet 2007 Belle Epoque, VIVA LA VIDA Pinot Noir Rosé Cava, Louis Roederer Cristal Brut, Veuve Clicquot Brut, Francis Ford Coppola Sofia Mini Blanc de Blancs 4-Pack
SODIE’S WINE & SPIRITS 479.783.8013
DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM
Hearts On Fire Fulfillment Heart Pendant, 18kt White Gold, .45 cts.
JOHN MAYS JEWELERS 479.452.2140
shop
We adore our local shops, and we encourage everyone to shop small! We found so much to fall in love with this month. Looking for that perfect Valentine’s Day gift? No worries! We’ve got you covered! Stop in to find just the right gift for your funny Valentine, or something special just for you!
Oliver Peoples Sunglasses and Frames
DR. STEVEN B. STILES OPTOMETRY 479.452.2020
Marquis Swim Spa Aquatic Training Vessel
LUTHER STEM POOLS & SPAS 479.646.7772
Blanton’s The Original Single-Barrel Bourbon Whiskey, Eagle Rare Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Calumet Farm Bourbon Whiskey
IN GOOD SPIRITS 479.434.6604
Furniture by Bernhardt
H3 HOME + DÉCOR 479.434.4920
Ganz® Plush Animals, Wooden Home Décor, Russell Stover Candy
SUNSHINE SHOP AT MERCY FORT SMITH 479.314.6079
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diy
! e n u t r o F a e k a M words and images Catherine Frederick
Making this project? Share your photos! Send it to editors@dosouthmagazine.com. Follow me on Pinterest: pinterest.com/catfrederick. DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM
diy
B
Baby, be mine! This year I'm replacing candy hearts with these adorable paper fortune cookies. I added my own message to each one; then I placed them in a take-out container I found at my local craft shop. These make the cutest gifts for Valentine’s Day, but would be perfect for any occasion. Simply select the design of the scrapbook paper for your need, whether you're celebrating a birthday, end of the school year, anniversary, retirement, a new baby, or a wedding!
Materials
Scrapbook paper
4” lid (or you can use a circle cutter)
Pen
Scissors (unless using a circle cutter)
Hot glue (or glue dots)
Take-out container (also cute in a mason jar or cellophane bag)
Method
1
2
3
4
1. Trace and cut a 4” circle out of scrapbook paper. Save the scrap from the cut circle to write your message on. 2. Turn paper over and fold the circle in half, creasing it only in the center, not on the ends. 3. Unfold paper and place a dot of hot glue on the center, outer edge of the circle to hold the edges together.
Press sides together.
4. Write your message on a strip of the scrap paper.
5
6
7
8
5. Insert the strip into the center of the glued circle so that a bit of the message peeps out of the end. 6. Holding the glued end with your right hand, press the center of the circle inward with your finger and bend
the ends together with the other two fingers (you will see it begin to make the shape of a fortune cookie).
7. Once folded, add another dot of hot glue to the center of the folded cookie to hold it together. 8. Place several fortune cookies in the take-out container for gifting! DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM
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Like Father, Like Son A CULINARY LEGACY words John Post, Director of Public Information, UAFS images Rachel Putman, Photographer, UAFS, and courtesy Jeffrey Taylor
Jeffrey Taylor
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W
When Jeffrey Taylor and his father Ralph began traveling to Ralph and Jeffrey
barbecue competitions across the southern United States, cooking was nothing more than a hobby. Nearly nine years after opening Ralph’s Pink Flamingo BBQ — now a mainstay restaurant in Fort Smith — and mere months after opening a second eatery in the city, the duo’s culinary foray has become a “hobby gone wild.” Jeffrey’s hobby continues to grow, as he and his father recently opened Jeff’s Club House as a lunch and brunch destination that also offers catering. The decision to open a second restaurant reflects Jeffrey’s passion for cooking and his business acumen he developed as a student at the University of Arkansas – Fort Smith. Looking back on his childhood, it's no surprise that Jeffrey entered the restaurant business. He grew up in the kitchen, cooking alongside his parents and grandparents and fostering a fascination for the culinary arts. He was also competitive. So when he and his father began traveling to food competitions, Jeffrey also competed in the youth cooking divisions. He never placed lower than third. “The quality is in the details. You have to have almost an obsession with quality to win a cook-off,” Jeffrey said.
THE QUALITY IS IN THE DETAILS. YOU HAVE TO HAVE ALMOST AN OBSESSION WITH QUALITY TO WIN A COOK-OFF.
As much as he loved cooking, when he and his father discussed
had made a smart decision. Now, after establishing a reputation as
opening a restaurant together, Jeffrey had his reservations. If he
one of the top barbecue restaurants in the state and expanding their
was going to open a business, he planned to fully devote himself
catering business, Jeffrey considers 100 people a day “just okay.”
to it. But with college on the horizon and a world of possibilities that went along with it, he wasn’t sure if he wanted to lock himself
He attributed the business’s growth to their focus on the customer.
down in Fort Smith with an obligation like entrepreneurship.
“I try to remember one thing about a regular customer – just one little thing,” he said. “It’s like Cheer’s. (Cheers is the friendly bar
“I’m wanting to go off to college; I’m wanting to travel the world.
in the long-running sitcom with the same name.) You want to go
I was thinking, do I really want to do this?” Jeffrey said.
to a place where everybody knows your name. We’ve made it a priority to have that same focus on the customer.”
But, the attractive offer of becoming a co-owner with his father, as well as his love for this city, made him say yes.
Jeffrey faced challenges as the business grew. The two opened Pink Flamingo a year after Jeffrey had started college to pursue
The father and son team opened Ralph’s Pink Flamingo BBQ
a degree in business administration. Attending school while
in 2008, anxious at the challenges that awaited. Neither had
owning a business strained his schedule, but flexible class offer-
ever owned a small business. Jeffrey did have some restaurant
ings allowed Jeffrey to work during the day and attend classes
experience, but Ralph's background was in banking.
at night. “There were multiple semesters where I’d take classes four days of the week and wouldn’t start until four or five p.m.
Their first day, they served more than 100 people and realized they
some nights,” he said.
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Even with the challenges, there were upsides. Jeffrey was able to take the business concepts he learned in class and apply them to the growing company. “The foundation classes were key for me – they provided such a broad range of knowledge,” he said. “There were multiple times that I’d learn something in class and come home and tell my dad, ‘We need to do this differently.’ “At UAFS, there’s a personal touch. Going to class, I had fifteen to twenty people in a class. At some other universities, you’re just a number on a page. You don’t have to go to Harvard or Yale to get the level of education that’s here locally.”
Festival and the Steel Horse Rally. Even three years ago, we didn’t have things like that.
Jeffrey’s business education also gave him the perspective to identify the need for a Saturday brunch location. “My business
“We try to help and donate food to help them become better
professors always stressed to me, ‘Look in your community, find
events,” he continued. “I just want to help the community be a
a need, and fill it,’” he said. “And I looked around and didn’t see
better place. If we make it younger, brighter and hipper, more
a Saturday brunch location in Fort Smith. And I realized there was
people will come live here, and more businesses will come here.”
a market for it.” Eight years ago, Jeffrey Taylor faced a crossroads. Eight years The result was Jeff’s Club House, an eatery at 2801 Old Green-
after making a decision that eventually made him a business
wood Road, Suite 16, that Jeffrey and his father opened in
leader in the Fort Smith community, he reflects on the dilemma
November 2016, offering comfort food at a reasonable price. The
with a smile. “It was a fantastic decision,” he said. “This started
restaurant is open from 11am-3pm Monday through Friday, with a
off as a couple of guys goofing off in the backyard. Now we’re
high-end brunch available from 10am-2pm on Saturdays. Fittingly,
serving hundreds of people every day and making a living. We
the restaurant is located in a shopping center next to their original
have created about twenty jobs in our community. I met my wife,
restaurant, Pink Flamingo.
Jordan, at UAFS and we now have a beautiful daughter, Raleigh, and another baby on the way. We are buying a nice house and
Menu items include various sandwiches – like Ralph’s Cuban, a
own part of two successful Fort Smith restaurants. We are actually
ham and pulled pork sandwich with Swiss cheese and spicy brown
living the American Dream. I don’t know if any of this would have
mustard, or the Caprese Panini, a sandwich with vine-ripened
been possible at my age without UAFS.”
tomatoes, fresh mozzarella cheese, basil pesto and a balsamic glaze – as well as various salads and soups. The second restaurant is also Jeffrey’s effort to become a part of what he calls a “progressive movement” in Fort Smith. “We have a lot of UAFS graduates and a lot of young people staying in Fort
For more on Jeff's Club House, visit theclubhousefs.com. To learn more about Ralph's Pink Flamingo, visit pinkflamingobbq.com.
Smith and starting businesses,” he said. “They’re bringing culture here with community events like Ales for Trails, the Peacemaker DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM
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I
Beautiful Chaos words Stoney Stamper Images courtesy April Stamper
I was born and raised on a Quarter Horse ranch in northeast Okla-
and washing and clipping and tending to sick animals, and I may
homa. I was the fifth generation of ranchers on The Rocking S
not have gotten to go play as much as my friends. My dad is a soft
Ranch, which would later be known simply as Stamper Ranch. We
hearted man, kind and gentle for the most part. But when it came
showed a lot of horses, pigs, and even a few cattle through the
to working with the animals, he was different. Inevitably, tempers
years. We judged horses, livestock and gave speeches. We built
flared, voices were raised, and feelings got hurt. It's not as bad as
fence for folks in town and delivered truckloads of feed for the old
it sounds. In the grand scheme of things, this was “family time,”
cattle farmers down the road who couldn’t haul it for themselves
and it was fun, in a weird way. There was this synergy we had.
anymore. Few kids have been more involved in 4-H and FFA than
Even though emotions ran high, and tears sometimes fell, we still
my siblings and me. I admit that sometimes, I didn't love it. As a
laughed, and we still made these amazing memories that we still
child, it was a lot of hard work, a lot of long hours out feeding
laugh about today, some twenty-five years later.
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As I've grown older, I've come to realize what a blessing it was
Years later, April and I started dating. We fell in love quickly and
to be able to grow up in the country surrounded by trees and
decided that we wanted to be married. She had two daughters,
hayfields and pastures full of horses and cows. To breathe in the
Abby and Emma. And I wanted to be a part of their lives, but I
cool, spring air and smell the fresh cut hay, and hear the bawling
couldn’t really do that very well being gone nine months out of
of a new pen of calves in the corner lot. But more than that, the
the year. So we agreed that I'd take a job in Texas. We'd have to
time I spent with my family out there in the winter, in the rain,
move, but we'd all be together. April and I felt it was important
snow, and sleet, or the smoldering heat of an Oklahoma summer,
that we raise our children in the same kind of agricultural environ-
was so much more. Those are the fondest memories of my life.
ment that we were raised in. But when we first moved to Texas our options were pretty limited. We lived in a small subdivision, and
I spent eighteen wonderful years on that ranch. Then I used all
we didn't have any land to keep livestock. So after a year or so,
that I had learned in 4-H and FFA and agriculture and was able to
we found an older home that needed some work on a nice piece
receive a full-ride scholarship to college. I spent the next four years
of land. It had a barn and an arena, and miles of old fencing that
engaging in extracurricular activities that would not have pleased
needed replacing. And we bought it. April could hardly control
my strict cowboy grandfather, not one bit, although at the end
herself now that she had room to fill our newfound Valhalla with
of my stint at school, I had something he never had. A college
animals. But one of the first things we wanted to do was get the
diploma. And then right out of college, I got a good job that made
girls some show animals. The first year, we got them Boer goats.
a decent salary, and the company put me on the road. For nearly
And with all due respect to Boer goats, they must be the dumbest
fifteen years, I worked all over the United States and in Canada.
animal that walks the face of this earth. We had to teach one of
I traveled nearly 300 days a year. I spent more time in an airport,
them to walk on its lead by pulling him with the lawnmower. No
a train station, a rental car, or in a hotel than I could count. At
matter how hard we tried, he wouldn’t just do the most basic
first, it was fun. The country boy goes to the city. I spent a good
animalistic thing, which is to walk.
bit of time in New York, Detroit, Boston, Toronto, Montreal, and Chicago. Places that I never thought I’d find myself in. I knew
I did not enjoy showing goats. Nothing against goats, I just had
every restaurant or bar that was the place to be. I was the life of
never dealt with them, and they seemed to be nearly as hard-
the party, and I had gotten far away from my ranching roots.
headed as I am. When we finished our show season, Emma won
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her class at county, and our goat showing days were over. The next year, we moved on to pigs. As soon as we got them home, my mind immediately went straight back to those days in my backyard with my dad and my sister. Dad yelling, my sister Shannon ticked off, pigs running everywhere. It was chaos. While I was reminiscing about those old times, I was suddenly yanked back to reality by the screams of my teenage daughter. The baby pigs were loose and had scattered. Abby, my oldest, was wearing Carhartt overalls and rubber mud boots, clearly not the most conducive outfit to running sprints and chasing pigs, but she was doing her best. And right on cue, the dad came out in me, and I begin yelling and griping and barking orders. The girls called out, “We're trying!” They rolled their eyes and continued trying to get these wild animals back in their pen. We finally got all four of them back in the barn and almost to their pen when one of them made a break for it. He shot through a gap and ran for the large door. Abby saw where he was headed and took off. Just as she got to the door, within arm’s reach of the pig, her toe caught the water hose that was lying on the ground. Her feet were too far behind her, and I knew she was going to fall. Her mother and I watched in slow motion as she hit the ground, chest first and let out a sound like "ughhhhh." And at that moment, I forgot all about the pigs. I forgot about the one that was quite possibly running as fast as he could for the highway. Instead, I focused solely on laughing at Abby. It was the funniest thing I had ever seen. She wasn’t hurt, of course. As a matter of fact, the pig that we were chasing had grown pretty
Twenty years from now, they probably won’t remember too much
curious as to what we were laughing at, so he came walking
about these pigs. They probably won’t remember how they placed
back up to us, and then right into his pen as if nothing had ever
at the shows or how much money they won. But I can guarantee
happened. It was chaos. Beautiful chaos. And April, Abby, Emma
you this: they’ll never forget the time Abby face-planted while
and I laughed the rest of the evening.
chasing that crazy Berkshire hog.
Stoney Stamper is the author of the popular parenting blog, The Daddy Diaries. He and his wife April have three daughters: Abby, Emma and Gracee. Originally from northeast Oklahoma, the Stampers now live in Tyler, Texas. For your daily dose of The Daddy Diaries, visit Stoney on Facebook or on his website, thedaddydiaries.net.
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Be Still My
Heart
Raspberry Cheesecake Hearts Recipe and image James Stefiuk
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Ingredients
Method
For the Crust
In a small bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar,
° 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
springform pan; set aside.
and butter. Press onto the bottom of a greased 9-inch
° ⅓ cup sugar In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
° ½ cup butter, melted
Beat in the sour cream, flour, vanilla, and lemon zest. Add eggs; beat on low speed just until combined. Fold in the chips. Pour over crust.
For the Filling
In a microwave, melt raspberry jam; stir until smooth.
° (3) 8oz. packages cream cheese, softened
Drop by teaspoons over batter; cut through batter with a
° ¾ cup sugar
knife to swirl.
° ⅓ cup sour cream
Place pan on a double thickness of heavy-duty foil. Securely
° 3 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
wrap foil around pan. Place in a large baking pan; add 1-inch
° 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
of hot water to larger pan.
° 2 teaspoons lemon zest
Bake at 325° for 80-85 minutes or until center is just set.
° 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
Cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Carefully run a knife
° (1) 10 - 12oz. package white baking chips ° ¼ cup seedless raspberry jam
around edge of pan to loosen; cool 1 hour longer. Cover and refrigerate overnight. Remove sides of pan. Tip: If making heart-shaped portions be sure to chill cheesecake completely before using a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut the cheesecake.
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Tiramisu Martini image James Stefiuk recipe adapted from mybakingaddiction.com
INGREDIENTS - 2 oz. Godiva Chocolate Liqueur - 1 ½ oz. Kahlúa - 1 ½ oz. Rum Chata - 2 oz. Heavy cream - Chocolate shavings - Ladyfingers - Whipped cream
METHOD Combine the Kahlúa, Rum Chata, heavy cream, and chocolate liqueur in a cocktail shaker. Shake thoroughly and pour into two martini glasses. Top with the ladyfingers, chocolate shavings and whipped cream. Drink responsibly. Never drink and drive.
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DeGray Lake Resort State Park Lodge
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Enjoy your stay at DeGray Lake Resort State Park Lodge, located near Bismarck, Arkansas. For Valentine’s Day, Shoreline Restaurant at the Lodge is serving your choice of prime rib, shrimp scampi, stuffed chicken breast or pasta with pesto. Served with soup, salad, sides and dessert, this romantic meal is only $28 per person.
For more information, visit degray.com
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FINDING Romance CLOSE TO HOME words Addi McNeel Images courtesy certain vendors, and; Botanical Garden of the Ozarks and Sassafras Springs Vineyard, Hudson Photography; Michael's Mansion, Drew Lacy Photography; Petit Jean State Park, Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism
Romance is not something that's found in one specific place.
these two points from January through March. On Saturdays,
But there are tried and true places that evoke romance, and our
you can travel in a vintage train car from Fort Smith to Winslow.
section of Arkansas has more than a few gems for you to visit with
The four-hour ride begins at the Fort Smith Trolley Museum at
the one you love.
100 South 4th Street at 11am. Costs range from $44 (coach ticket) to $88 for a ticket that includes special seating, a box lunch, and a souvenir photo. Also, this month for Valentine's Day, A&M is offering a ride on the Love Train, a two-hour couples' dinner train from Springdale to Fayetteville. For more information, visit amrailroad.com.
OUTDO ORS At the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks in Fayetteville, which covers more than 100 acres, there are year-round exhibits, such as the towering structures like the Crown Sculpture and Peace Arbor, bridges crossing over koi ponds, giant glass and ceramic chimes, and a greenhouse butterfly garden. Couples love the Garden. In fact, last year alone, forty-eight
TRAINS
couples exchanged vows here.
The Arkansas Missouri Railroad includes tracks spanning 150
Admission for adults is $7. The Botanical Garden of the Ozarks is
miles from Fort Smith, Arkansas, to Monett, Missouri. There
open every day from 9am-5pm. Details at bgozarks.org.
are several trips in passenger trains that take place in between DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM
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Not far away, in Bentonville, is the Peel Mansion, built in 1875 by Colonel Samuel West Peel for his bride, and Compton Gardens. In bloom this month is Ozark Witch Hazel,
Leatherwood,
Frostweed, Squaw Weed, American Holly and Christmas Fern. Continue your walk as the trail connects to the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art Trail. Don't want to walk? Bring your bicycles! The Peel Mansion is open for tours Tuesday through Saturday from 10am-3pm. Tours cost $5.10 for adults. Visitors
Not far away, Tontitown Winery in Tontitown makes wine on site
can tour the Gardens for free, from dawn to dusk. For details,
and offers free wine tasting seven days a week in their tasting
visit peelcompton.org.
room. The winery is housed in the Taldo House, built in 1917, and there's even a History Room that shows the tradition of grape growing by the Italian immigrants who made their home here beginning in 1897. To learn more, visit tontitownwinery.com.
At Petit Jean State Park in Morrilton, romance awaits at Mather Lodge, or at one of the cabins. On the weekend of February 10-12, the park is hosting Hikes, Hearts, and Hugs, with free activities geared toward couples, such as guided hikes. For details, visit petitjeanstatepark.com.
ARTISAN CHOCOLATE SHOPS
WINERIES
Valentine's Day is particularly sweet at Kopper Kettle, where the Sassafras Springs Vineyard in Springdale only opened in 2015, but
Greer family has been making candy since 1925. At the shop at
the winery is already making waves throughout the local wine scene.
6300 Alma Highway, in Van Buren, you can watch candy being
On Fridays and Saturdays, couples can enjoy live, soft jazz while
made. You can't go wrong with their staples, like Ozarkies, a
tasting wine over a local artisan cheese board. Sassafras makes four
delight made with vanilla cream, chocolate and pecans. Sugar-
different red wines and one Riesling. In addition to the vineyard and
free candy is also available. And yes, they do make chocolate
winery room, Sassafras has horse stables and an old open-air chapel
delights in a copper kettle! Open Monday through Friday from
made to look as if it is in ruins where many marriage proposals and
9am-5:30pm; Saturday from 9am-5pm; closed Sundays. For more,
weddings take place. For details, visit sassafrasspringsvineyard.com.
visit kopperkettlecandies.com.
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Kopper Kettle
Beland Manor
seatings, one at 6pm and another at 8pm. Call 479.782.3300 for In Fayetteville, Hello Cocoa at 4170 West Martin Luther King
reservations or visit fort-smith.net.
Boulevard is another chocolate shop that will put you in the mood for romance. The chocolate is single-origin, small-batch made and
Michael’s Mansion at 2900 Rogers Avenue in Fort Smith is a
handcrafted so you can be sure the makers are quality-oriented.
colonial-style mansion and art gallery. They offer in-suite spas
Try their truffles and their cocoa tea! Open Thursday through
and fireplaces. Each stay includes a three-course, chef prepared
Saturday from 10am-2pm. Details at hellococoachocolate.com.
breakfast. Also, from February 10-14, there will be a special fivecourse dinner for $129 per couple (tax and gratuity not included), with seating beginning at 5:30pm. The main course is Chicken Cordon Bleu or Beef Tenderloin with a Red Wine Reduction, served with Heavenly Twice Baked Potato and Roasted Carrots. Call 479.883.8336 for reservations or visit michaelsmansion.biz.
BED AND BREAKFASTS WITH SPECIAL NIGHTS OUT Michael's Mansion
Beland Manor, a two-story colonial mansion at 1320 South Albert Pike in Fort Smith, plays host to many weddings throughout the year and even has special honeymoon and romance packages for their visitors. Valentine's Day is a big time for them. They can provide a candlelit dinner and fresh flowers, the “Ultimate Escape” with an in-room spa and personal fireplace, or the “Picnic in Your Room” package with assorted cheeses and champagne.
Planning to visit some of these great places this month? We'd love to see your photos! Email us at editors@dosouthmagazine.com.
If you're looking for a special dinner on Valentine's Day, Beland is the place to be. They're planning a special menu, with two DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM
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From Backwoods to Boomtown Arkansas’ New Whiskey Rebellion
words Dwain Hebda images Phil Brandon, Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau; Gary & Jon Taylor
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T
The first thing that hits you when you enter Little Rock’s Rock Town Distillery is the aromas. Just two fingers into the front door of the building — anchoring a nondescript but up-and-coming warehouse neighborhood — the unmistakable waft envelops you. Vanilla and oak and caramel tug and pull at your senses in this space, a former paint factory and vanguard of the new whiskey movement in Arkansas. They do tours and tastings twice a day here, six days a week, three on Saturday. About a dozen visitors have turned out on this overcast weekday afternoon — a Wisconsin family in town for a visit, two sets of fawning newlyweds, a grizzled old-timer with a waxed mustache that’s the envy of an abrasive hipster foursome. It’s a relatively tame cocktail compared to some of the
Rock Town Tour
groups that drop in. “We had that group from Boston, remember?” says tour guide Kristen as her bar-mates nod. “They were a lot of fun but they were crazy.” Rock Town has been around less than a decade but has made the most of its time in the cask. The company’s product line has grown to more than twenty variations of bourbon, gin, rum, vodka and corn whiskey, one or more of which can be had in sixteen states, Canada and Great Britain. “We started out with vodka and gin and migrated to whiskey at the same time,” says founder Phil Brandon, fifty-one. “Different distilling techniques are used for the different products and having to learn what the regulations are, what the laws are, to stay within those requirements and then learn how to operate a still to the best of its abilities — we were lucky enough to be able to do all of that. “What set us apart was just the quality of it and then the story behind it that we're an Arkansas distillery, distilling Arkansas ingredients and making Arkansas' first-ever whiskey.”
Rock Town Tasting Room
The tour winds into the barrel-aging warehouse where charred white oak barrels made in Hot Springs rest three-high on custom-
says, noting he still stays close to home on ingredients, such as the
built racks. Aging allows the wood to work its magic imparting
Louisiana molasses used to make rum.
color and flavor and mellowing the whiskey's edges until they’re round and roasty on the tongue.
Rock Town also has a green streak — used barrels get recycled at local breweries looking to put a boozy spin on a brew and
“We try to use locally sourced ingredients whenever possible, but
spent mash is sold to a local rancher as feed for what must be the
we can't do it 100 percent; that's not really a feasible thing,” Phil
mellowest cows in the nation.
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Rock Town Still
Beyond sales growth and a hatful of industry honors, the Little
you want to get on their prickly side, refer to it as “moonshine,”
Rock company is also the bona fide granddaddy of the craft spirits
the harsh hat-lifter cooked up by bootleggers.
movement in Arkansas. Phil launched the business, the first legal distillery since Prohibition, in 2010 after being laid off from his job
“I stay away from the word moonshine; anymore, moonshine
as a computer engineer. In so doing, he cut the blueprint for an
is really used as a marketing term,” Gary growls. “None of
industry still just getting its dewclaws.
the licensed distillers that can manufacture legally are making moonshine, by definition. By definition, it's an untaxed liquor.
In fact, there are currently only two licensed Arkansas distilleries in full production. The other, White River Distilling, is in Gassville,
“I've had people tell me, ‘Oh it's not strong enough, it's not
a 2,100-person burg just a couple of hiccups outside of Mountain
moonshine.’ Well, I'm not selling moonshine. If I get something
Home. Run by the father-son team of Gary and Jon Taylor, White
that's one hundred-twenty, one hundred-thirty proof, you're
River launched in 2013.
going to buy one bottle of it for the next ten years. If I've got it at ninety-proof or sixty-proof, we want you to enjoy it, but then
Gary, sixty-six, was attracted to the challenge of making a superior
you're going to come back.”
product and intrigued by the history attached to the distiller’s art. White River enjoys one distinct competitive advantage, that “If you go back to the 1700s, one of the financial things that
being their water which steeps naturally through hundreds of
built this country was the tax on alcohol. And you can follow
feet of limestone. It’s the kind of water that made Jack Daniels
that through the history of the United States,” he says. “George
famous. For Jon, thirty-five, the enjoyment is combining such
Washington was a whiskey-maker. He made rye whiskey, and
quality ingredients experimentally to create something of mass
there was two years that he made 10,000 gallons of it. What I
appeal from the ground up.
read was, he sold it for fifty cents a gallon. You put that in today's terms, that's half a million bucks.”
“When we do a new flavor, we don't go by just my taste buds or my dad's taste buds, we'll let several different people try it and
The Taylors tinker with new formulas as they continue to build a
get an overall consensus of what people think,” Jon says. “We
steady in-state following for their four varieties of corn whiskey. If
try to pick something kind of in the middle of the spectrum taste
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wise. The whole idea was we wanted to make a product that everybody can enjoy and everybody can afford.” Arkansas’ other licensed distiller, Core Brewing & Distilling Company in Springdale, plans a 2017 opening for its showpiece Fort Smith facility. Arkansas beer drinkers are well-acquainted with the outfit’s rapidly expanding craft beer empire, and Core’s leadership is banking on that brand loyalty to carry over to its whiskey. “We find most people who are looking for good quality beer White River Distilling
are looking for the same in spirits,” says Jay Richardson, vice president. “Our focus is on bringing some real attention to the state of Arkansas and show that we can do some fantastic beer
order to have product available when Fort Smith opens. There’s
and even better spirits.”
also been some legislative work to do, namely to change a state law prohibiting Core from selling its spirits through its growing
Core has been working toward getting the distilling side of its
number of company-owned pubs.
business up and running for a while now. The company bought the 50,000-square-foot former Southwest Times Record building
Despite the daunting to-do list, Jay said it’s a job like no other.
in Fort Smith in 2015 and has since been renovating it to include distillery operations, a cooperage, and a tasting room, plus an
“It's just a cool environment. I've been in a lot of different
additional 20,000 square feet of retail space. That project, as
industries and this one, there's nothing like getting to meet people
well as the permitting process, has been the endeavor’s steepest
at the level of 'hey let's have a beer and talk about what we can
challenge thus far.
do going forward.' The product that we have is, in my opinion, a superior product. When you have something solid like that, it just
“It took us a while to get the licensing to become a distiller in
makes your job so much easier.”
Arkansas; once we got that the rest of it has been pretty easy, to be quite honest with you,” Jay says. “We've got a ton of white oak here in the state (for making barrels), and we've already got distribution channels that are looking forward to the product.”
Rock Town Distilling
Said product will be marketed under the Hanging Judge label, a
1216 E 6th Street, Little Rock 501.907.5244 rocktowndistillery.com
nod to Judge Isaac C. Parker whose reputation for assigning capital punishment in frontier Fort Smith earned him the nickname. Both Jay and company founder Jesse Core hail from Fort Smith and were happy to memorialize their hometown. “We really wanted to play on that Wild West hanging judge who was in Fort Smith and really make (the whiskey) Fort Smith's own,” Jay says. One of the challenges of starting in this business is what goes
White River Distillery 150 Nancy Street, Gassville 870.430.5747 whiteriverdistillery.com
Core Brewing & Distilling Co. 2470 Lowell Rd, Springdale 479.372.4300 corebeer.com
into the barrel today won’t hit shelves for years — in Core’s case, at least five — so generating initial inventory takes some doing. Core has been running scaled-down distilling in its brewery in DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM
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Mardi Gras
IN LITTLE SWITZERLAND words Marla Cantrell images courtesy Eureka Springs CAPC
Eureka Springs, Arkansas, is often called the Little Switzerland of the Ozarks. This mountain town, with its narrow, winding streets, Victorian architecture, one-of-a-kind shops and historic hotels, lives up to the name. But this month, the Carroll County town of 2,000 puts on its Mardi Gras mask and celebrates the season. During February, there are parades and parties. This year's theme is the Roaring Twenties, and there are balls galore. Rod McGuire, who's in charge of the King Cake Ball on Fat Tuesday, describes three of the events, saying you have the choice of the formal "hair up" Coronation Ball, the relaxed "hair down" Jokers Ball, and the King Cake Ball, which falls somewhere in between. At almost every event, there will be Second Line dancing. This tradition can be traced to New Orleans in the 1800s, where Jazz Funerals were often held. The family would walk behind a horse-drawn hearse, with a jazz band behind them. Following the band, were friends and other mourners, often carrying parasols, creating the Second Line. Once the deceased had been buried, trumpets would sound and the jazz band would play happier tunes. The practice honored the dead, celebrating their ascension to Heaven. The Second Line would march and dance, a tradition that has now seeped into other ceremonies in the South, such as weddings, parties, sporting events, even retirement celebrations. Today, the Second Line dance happens at almost every Mardi Gras event in the town. Want to join in the fun? Here's how. DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM
travel taste
February 4, 1-3pm
February 17, 6pm
TASTE OF N'AWLINS
CORONATION BALL
The Grand Central Hotel and Taverne
Crescent Hotel Crystal Ballroom
37 North Main Street
75 Prospect Avenue
$8, pay at the door
$35
Want to feel like you're in New Orleans without stepping out of
225.405.9672
Arkansas? Head to the Grand Central Hotel and Taverne for hot
The Coronation Ball is one of the premiere events of Mardi
beignets, cafĂŠ au lait, and shrimp gumbo shots. A jazz trio will
Gras, and tickets go quickly. This year's Royal Court will be on
be playing the music of Mardi Gras, and the Royal Court will be
hand, and the menu includes dishes like Crawfish Boudin Balls
on hand for you to meet.
with Remoulade Sauce, Chicken and Sausage Gumbo, Voodoo Catfish, Chicken Carnivale, and FlambĂŠed Bananas Foster
While there, take a little time to enjoy the Grand Central Hotel,
Cheesecake. There will be champagne toasts, live music, and lots
the oldest one in Eureka Springs. It was built in 1883, restored to
of dancing.
its Victorian glory, and is a sight to behold. February 18, 6pm February 8, 5:30pm
LIGHTS AND SOUND PARADE
UMBRELLA DECORATING
Spring and Main Streets
Eureka Live Underground Video Dance Bar and Beer Garden
eurekaspringsmardigras.com
35 North Main
This parade will be filled with lights everywhere, on people,
Adults only, free
floats, cars, dancers, bands, you name it. Crowds gather along
479.253.7020
the streets to watch and collect the Mardi Gras beads that are
You don't want to show up at Mardi Gras without a fancy
tossed to onlookers. There will also be another chance to Second
umbrella. Here's your chance to have the best one ever. All
Line dance. Afterward, there will be the Black Light Ball. Check
supplies are provided. Be sure to add all the glitter and pizzazz
website for details.
you want. Afterward, there will be a Second Line dance to show off your handiwork. February 16, 6-9pm ARTIGRAS - PALETTE TO PALATE 1905 Basin Park Hotel 12 Spring Street $45 877.456.9679 You don't have to be an artist to enjoy ArtiGras; the talented Marlene Gremillion will be on hand to guide you. Paint, paintbrushes, and canvases are provided. The ticket price includes your first glass of wine, there will be a cash bar, and all the fun will take place in the sixth-floor lobby of the 1905 Basin Park Hotel, another historic wonder in Eureka Springs. It's recommended you call ahead for tickets. Proceeds benefit the Eureka Springs School of the Arts.
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February 24, 6pm
February 25, 2pm
JOKERS MASQUERADE BALL
EUREKA GRAS COSTUME DAY PARADE
Inn of the Ozarks Convention Center
Spring and Main Streets
207 West Van Buren
This themed parade goes through downtown Eureka Springs.
$30 individual tickets; $250 for table of 10
Lots of floats, music, people dressed in costumes, and animals
479.253.7018
whose owners bring them along for the event. Mardi Gras beads
Costumes are required for the Jokers Masquerade Ball. The
will be thrown, bands turn out, and dancers show up to make
theme this year is The Great Gatsby and The Roaring Twenties.
the parade spectacular.
Masks are encouraged so that you'll get the full effect of a Mardi Gras party. Terri and the Executives will be playing a variety of
February 26, 11:30am
music. There will be a N'Awlins inspired buffet with lots of heavy
JAZZ BRUNCH
hors d'oeuvres. After dinner, enjoy a slice of King Cake.
Crescent Hotel Crystal Ballroom 75 Prospect Avenue
February 25, 7pm
$25, reservations required
MAYOR'S BALL: RED CARPET MASQUERADE
855.725.5720
1905 Basin Park Hotel
The Crescent Hotel Jazz Brunch is a great way to celebrate.
$35 reserved ticket; $40 at the door
Champagne, mimosas, live music, and a chance to meet the
eurekaspringschamber.com
Mardi Gras king and queen. Enjoy carved meats, cheeses, shrimp,
The theme of this ball is The Great Gatsby, and Mayor Butch
salads and desserts, at what's being called the grandest brunch
Berry will be the host. Dress up in your finest 1920s gear,
in the Ozarks. Will there be a Second Line dance? You know it!
head to the 1905 Basin Park Hotel, and get ready for a night of fun. The Downtown Livewires will be performing, there will
February 28, 5pm
be appetizers, a cash bar, and Second Line dancing, of course.
ST. LIZ CAJUN KING CAKE BALL
Reservations are recommended.
St. Elizabeth Parish Hall 30 Crescent Drive $40, call for reservations 479.253.4503 On Fat Tuesday, St. Elizabeth Parish Hall transforms into a Mardi Gras wonderland. When the doors open at 5pm for cocktail hour, there will also be oysters on the half shell. At 6pm, the ball officially begins, with music by Naturally Brass, dancing, and the final procession of the Royal Court. The menu includes Boudin Balls, Crawfish Corn Bisque, Cajun Corn Slaw, Crab Cakes with Remoulade Sauce, and a Praline Pecan King Cake. This is a popular event, so make reservations early!
For more information, visit eurekaspringsmardigras.org.
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southern fiction
man, maybe forty or so, who smells like money and is loaded down with heart-shaped boxes, stares at my chest and then laughs. “Stupid!” he says, and the guy behind him, a guy who smells like motor oil, and thinks the rich guy’s talking to me, says, “Hey, buster, watch your mouth! She don’t deserve that!” “He was answering my question!” I say. “Get it? What rhymes with Cupid?” I point to my chest, and the guy’s face reddens, “Oh, sure.” He pulls off his ball cap, scratches his head with his thumb. “I just don’t think it’s funny.” The rich guy has all the same boxes, leopard print with red bows. He probably has a ship in every port, if you know what I mean. Still, he has that look I like: a smile that’s almost a smirk, shoulders that barely fit through the door frame. He sees me staring. “My daddy was a linebacker,”
I Should Stay
I
FICTION Marla Cantrell
he says, and I laugh. “My mama was a cheerleader,” I say, which isn’t true but doesn’t seem to matter. He drops the boxes on the counter. “What’s your name?” And that’s when the mechanic moves to the other checker’s line. Melba doesn’t have much personality, but she’s fast as a flu epidemic in an old folks’ home. “Genevieve,” I say.
If you’re not in love as Valentine’s Day approaches, you shouldn’t work in a candy shop. But I do, and today the parking lot is full. Sandy, who owns the place, had
“Hank,” he says.
the windows painted with Cupid and hearts and a message that reads, If you don’t bring home the choc-o-lit, she’s bound to have a hissy fit!
“Who’s all this candy for?”
Which reflects poorly on every woman I know and respect, but Sandy doesn’t
Hank flashes a too-white smile. “Maiden aunts and
get that. Right now, I’m working the register, and I’m wearing my name tag,
what-not.”
which is a big white paper heart, turned around backwards, so instead of seeing Genevieve, the customers are seeing my inside joke. I’ve written, Guess What
“You must be a saint.”
Rhymes With Cupid? Hank waves his hand in the air, “Saint. Sinner. Since my name tag is positioned right below my collar bone, most of the guys
Whatever,” and two more people move to
are checking it out. Nobody’s said anything, though, until right now, when this
Melba’s line.
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Sandy comes out of the office. She’s fat from years in the business,
jewelry box to make them fit. And my trophy from volleyball back
red-faced and hangdog from too little loving, I suspect. “Gene-
when I was in junior college.
vieve, is there a problem?” All day the next day, I watch the door at Sissy’s Sweets. I’ve turned “No ma’am. Just helping Hank, here.”
my heart-shaped name tag back around since my actual heart’s got a crack of light shining in it now.
Sandy is a dragon in polyester. “We appreciate your business, Hank, but if Genevieve’s line don’t start moving soon, I’m going
When I leave, Hank is outside, leaning against one of the columns
have to start charging her rent instead of paying her salary.”
that are painted to look like a candy cane. “Evening,” he says, and I smile up at him. “Like the flowers?” he asks and puts his hands
Hank points to the largest box of chocolates we’ve got in the store.
in the pockets of his slacks.
It’s up on a pedestal, three feet tall, at least. “Genevieve just talked me into buying that box, right there,” he says. “For my mama.”
“Those from you?” I ask, innocent like.
Sandy unfolds her arms. “It’s one hundred and fifty dollars.”
He smiles. His eyes are blue like wildflowers.
Hank folds his arms. “Worth every penny.”
He shows his keys to me, pushes a button, and the lights come on his Chevy truck. It is black with chrome, and once I’m inside, I see the
“Your mama’s a lucky woman.”
leather seats. Hank hits a button, and the seat warms up. I smell like chocolate and the lavender oil I wear behind my ears. I look in the
“I tell her that all the time,” Hank says, and Sandy smiles at him
vanity mirror, pull the clip that holds my hair in place. It falls across
and then me.
my shoulders, a tangle of blonde curls. Hank says, “Good lord.”
When I ring him up, he uses a platinum credit card. I figure he’s
When he brings me to work the next morning, the fog of winter
going to ask me out, but he never does. The next day, though,
has fallen. We ride through clouds, which seems right since I can’t
the flower van pulls up. The delivery gal, a sour-faced woman
feel the ground below me. He calls me, his voice a brook in spring
with a streak of gray where her dye job’s grown out, hands over
when the water tumbles. My head swims. My legs quiver.
a bouquet big as a tow sack. Hydrangeas and ranunculus and gardenias. The card reads You need to give Cupid another chance.
For a week, I see Hank every day. And then he just disappears.
No signature, but I know it’s Hank.
When I call, he doesn’t answer. I leave messages that don’t sound like me. “Please,” I say, “just let me know you’re not lying in a
When I leave work, I strap the flowers in my car like they’re a
ditch somewhere.”
toddler, and drive through town grinning. I stop at Mickey D’s, order from the kids’ menu. The girl at the drive-through points at
Sandy hears me. “Hank?” she asks.
my flowers and says, “Must be nice.” It is nice. The smell of the flowers, the smell of the chicken nuggets, it’s perfect, like a storm
I shake my head yes.
rolling in on the hottest day of the year. “He’s lying,” she says, “but not in a ditch.” I like this part of love. When nothing bad has happened yet. Me and Hank, we haven’t been on a date. We haven’t had one harsh word
She takes me into her office. She pours me coffee. She adds
between us. When I met my ex-husband, Johnny, I thought I’d caught
Kahlúa. “Drink,” she says.
a falling star. I thought we’d sail right on through life, but we did not. Hank is messing with me. He could have called after the flowers
When I take a sip, Sandy says, “I doubt he calls anytime soon,
came. Or showed up again. I put the flowers on my dresser, so
honey. And if he does, you shouldn't answer.”
they’ll be the first thing I see when I wake up. I have to move my DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM
63
64
southern fiction
“What do you know?” I ask, but Sandy holds her hand up.
“I did. I was low-down, so low-down I could barely pull my head off the pillow. Ain’t nobody worth that.”
“Trust me,” she says. I look at my phone again, and Sandy says, “Give me that thing.” I have my cell phone in my lap, and I watch it.
And then she grabs it and turns it off, shoves it in her desk drawer. I feel my heart racing. I have this unreasonable thought that if
“Men like that,” Sandy says, and looks down at her fingernails,
Hank calls and I don’t answer, it might make him mad.
“they come in on a comet. They slip away on winged feet.” “But I don’t want to end up like you." “You sound like a poet.” “Don’t feel too sorry for me, Genevieve. I gave up, sure I did, but “I dated one, once. He broke up with me in a note that rhymed.”
not forever. I met Sam at the dog park two summers ago. He has a
Sandy looks around. “I have it here somewhere.” She clears her
mutt with a hitch in its hind end. He has a good heart. One day he
throat. “Want to know what happens now? Hank gives you a few
said to me, he said, ‘Sandy, you are goodness wrapped in sweetness
days to squirm. Then he calls. He’ll say he was busy but won’t say
wrapped in beauty.’” Sandy winks at me. “How’s that for poetry?”
with what. You’ll be so glad to hear from him; you’ll let him off the hook. The next time he disappears, it will be for longer. You’ll
"You don't talk about Sam around here."
throw a fit, but it won’t do you any good. Just when you think you’re over him, bingo! He’s back again.
Sandy smiles. "I like to keep a few things to myself."
“After the while, you start feeling bad about yourself. You’ll stop
There’s a rap on the door, and Melba comes in. “Got a guy out
strutting around this shop like you’re the Queen of Sheba. You’ll
here, Genevieve, says his name is Hank. Says you’ll want to know
start thinking you’re not worth much, which is a hundred percent
he’s here.”
BS. In six months, little lines will start forming around your eyes and lips. In a year, you’ll look ten years older.”
Sandy looks at me. “Moment of truth, darling. Walk out there, and you’re on that old slippery slope.”
I take another sip of coffee, feel the liquor settle in my stomach. “How old are you, Sandy?”
Melba looks at me with her one good eye. “You should stay,” she says.
“Forty-seven.” I can feel Hank, that pull that makes every cell in my body gravitate “I know, I know,” she says, “I look older.”
toward him. I can feel his breath on my ear as he whispers to me, and see the long line of his body. I reach out and touch Sandy’s
“Who broke your heart?”
hand. “I should stay,” I say.
“If you believe the last Bozo, I did it to myself. Every dang thing
“You should stay,” Sandy says back to me and wraps her fingers
was my fault.”
through mine so I will. Melba hugs my neck, something that’s never happened, and then slips out the door. I hear Hank’s voice
“So, what did you do?”
rise, and then a bitter laugh, and then the bell that rings when a customer leaves.
“I got a dog. I bought this place.” Sandy points to the heartshaped boxes stacked in the corner. “I decided to cash in on other
I have been rescued, I know I have, and knowing that makes the
people’s love.”
emptiness not so bad. I hear tires squeal across the parking lot, and I smile, at last, feeling a little bit more like the girl I almost
“You just gave up.”
abandoned for a thing that was not even close to love. DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM
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Time to tie the knot!
This is such an exciting and stressful time in your life. It can be hard to figure out where to begin your planning, especially when you're not sure who to trust with one of
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the most important days of your life.
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Do SouthÂŽ joined forces with the best local vendors who stand at the ready to help you plan the wedding of your dreams.
So, keep calm and plan on, your adventure begins here!
WEDDINGS
FEED THE MASSES Planning the menu for your reception is no cake walk, but consider planning the type of reception before finalizing your food choices.
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Guests are served their appetizer, entrĂŠe, and dessert, by wait staff. Pros: Elegant, traditional Cons: Can be expensive
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Depending on wed guests can be and personal style, al choices, served non-tradition esserts only such as breakfast, d s. or heavy appetizer
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WEDDINGS
Beauty through Health Best Western Inn of the Ozarks 207 W. Van Buren, Eureka Springs eurekaweddings.net 479.253.9768
ThermiSmooth and ThermiVa use heat to turn back your
Set in beautiful Eureka Springs, Arkansas, the Best Western
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more details and to view our photo gallery!
today to be ready for your special day!
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Beauty Through Health 8500 S. 36th Terrace, Fort Smith Find them on Facebook 479.648.1800
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Big Cedar Lodge Big Cedar Weddings Department bigcedarweddings.com 417.339.5159 Beyond the pages of a storybook, the next chapter of your fairytale begins at Big Cedar Lodge. From the engagement party to the honeymoon, our team of wedding experts can help you create lifelong memories. Indulge in world-class experiences, like a relaxing massage or facial before getting ready in your own private suite at Cedar Creek Spa. For the celebration, choose from spectacular venues ranging from a charming hilltop chapel to a grand lawn overlooking the lake. However you envision your perfect day, Big Cedar Lodge can help bring
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your dream to life.
Brow Bar 2801 Old Greenwood Road, Fort Smith Find them on Facebook 479.434.5680 Schedule with us so you know that you have your perfect look on your perfect day! Our aestheticians are skin experts; they can create a daily regimen for you and provide services to rejuvenate your skin. Our services include brow shaping, lash tinting, LVL Lash lift, lash extensions, dermaplaning, facials, and chemical peels. Kameron DeWitt-Elkins is our lead stylist and has 10+ years of experience, is Aveda trained under master stylists in cutting and specialized color, and has trained with Stephanie Brinkerhoff for advanced bridal hairstyles. Don’t leave one of the most important days of your life to just anyone-come see the experts!
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Deer Mountain Events 7717 Contran Road, Ozark deermountainevents.com 479.667.2288 Deer Mountain Ranch is located in the heart of Northwest Arkansas. It is a privately owned and operated venue tailormade for outdoor weddings of any size, rehearsal dinners, receptions, corporate events, and tours. Whether you choose to say “I do� in the presence of a 50-foot cross with views of the River Valley or a serene meadow surrounded by White Oak Creek, majestic trees, and a unique water clock, your wedding will be a storybook memory. Consider Deer Mountain as the perfect setting to start the next chapter of your story!
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s! n o i s s e Expr Flowers Expressions Flowers 112 Towson Avenue, Fort Smith expressionsflowers.com 479.783.3210 Did you know that Expressions Flowers has two AIFD accredited and three Certified Master Florists on staff daily? Expressions Flowers also has two AIFD Certified Floral Evaluators and Judges! Did you know that the floral designers at Expressions are the most award-winning designers in Western Arkansas and Eastern Oklahoma? We are also involved at the state and national levels on floral education. What does that mean for you? It means you'll have floral artists who are passionate about what the beauty of flowers can do for your wedding or event! Call us today.
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Fort Smith Medical Beineman Aesthetics Tonya Beineman, APN 3811 Rogers Avenue, Ste. A, Fort Smith fortsmithmedicalcenter.com 479.434.3131
Friddle Dentistry 5008 South U Street, Fort Smith thefriddlesmile.com 480.452.8800
Count on us to make your day perfect! Get started early by
At Friddle Dentistry, a smile makeover combines two or more
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laser treatment that has little discomfort and no downtime.
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The treatment takes only 25 minutes with permanent results
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in 12 weeks. For skin discoloration, we offer chemical peels,
to meet their cosmetic goals. We offer ZOOM in-office whit-
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For fine lines and wrinkles, we offer Dysport and Botox . For
we can provide beautiful-looking porcelain veneers to help
deeper lines, dermal fillers are best and can be used to achieve
dramatically enhance the aesthetic appeal of your smile. Let us
fuller lips and to give you back the apples in your cheeks!
help you attain the smile you've always wanted.
速
速
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速
速
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Funky Memories funkymemories.com 479.651.8567 Funky Memories is the River Valley’s oldest and most popular photo booth for your wedding or special occasion. Funky booth business that was affordable. We set ourselves apart from other booths by having full-time attendants, custom artwork, a digital copy of all pictures taken by photo labquality printers, and we print a copy for each person who goes in our booth. Our enclosed booth lets your guests feel more comfortable. We really do “Make memories fun!”
Spring is almost here, which means “Wedding Season” is almost here! Whether you’re looking for a wedding band or looking to “Pop the Question,” our knowledgeable staff is ready to assist you. Needing wedding gifts for your groomsmen or bridesmaids? We have a great selection of gifts to make your bridal party feel special on your big day. John Mays Jewelers has Graduate Jeweler Gemologists (GIA) on staff to answer any questions you might have, whether it's sizing a ring or building a custom piece of jewelry. Shop with confidence and trust, with an American Gem Society Retailer.
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Memories started because we saw a need for a turn-key photo
John Mays Jewelers 5622 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith johnmaysjewelers.com 479.452.2140
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Sodie’s Wine & Spirits 5401 Phoenix Avenue, Fort Smith sodiesliquor.com 479.783.8013
The Loft at Stone Oak Rusty & Terri Smith 3411 Old Chismville Road, Greenwood theloftatstoneoak.com 479.651.8300
Sodie's is your premier beverage store for everything wedding.
The Loft at Stone Oak offers a two-story, spectacular urban
From our Wedding/Stock-the-Bar Registry to helping you
atmosphere that is, no doubt, stunning. The Loft sits in a
plan the beer, wine or signature drinks for your engagement
quiet, peaceful and natural setting in the River Valley. We
party, rehearsal dinner, and reception, we can help you decide
offer beautiful chairs and tables, a dreamy bridal loft, grooms
the quantity and products to make your events perfect. Our
lounge, huge caterer’s kitchen, covered patio with fireplace
registry is one of our hottest trending services. Come in and
and custom wine-barrel bar tables. Coming Spring 2017 there
choose the products you wish for your guests to purchase for
will be an outdoor venue with a covered chapel, the perfect
you. We will set up a basket in the store for them to choose
place to say "I DO." From our 100-year-old oak to our trending
from. Come in and set up your registry today!
shiplap walls and beautiful chandeliers, The Loft is the perfect place to start your forever!
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LET THEM EAT Chocolate, white, or Italian Cream cake. Buttercream, whipped or ganache icing. Which to choose? It’s likely you can’t go wrong with your flavor choices, just be sure you have enough to go around!
4" 6" 20 Servings 14 w/o Top Layer
8"
6" 8"
10"
40 Servings 26 w/o Top Layer
64 Servings 38 w/o Top Layer
4" 6" 8"
6"
8"
10"
10"
10"
12"
14" DO SOUTH MAGAZINE
6"
12" 14"
78 Servings 64 w/o Top Layer
100 Servings 86 w/o Top Layer 210 Servings 196 w/o Top Layer
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You’ve got the ring, let’s do this thing!
A PLANNING CHECKLIST 12+ months before
Wedding theme and budget. Date and time - have more than one option. Guest list. Ceremony and reception sites.
8–10 months before
Wedding insurance. Gown. Food & entertainment. Flowers. Gift registry. Rental companies (chairs, tables, tent).
6–8 months before
Ceremony musicians. Bridesmaid dresses. Plan honeymoon. Send Save the Date cards.
4–6 months before
Bridal shower. Men’s formalwear. Transportation (limousines, other cars).
2 months before
Mail invitations. Vows. Gifts (parents, attendants, each other). Stylist. Makeup trial run.
1 month before
Marriage license. Gown fitted and pressed. Wedding program.
2 weeks before
Confirm RSVP list. Photographer shot list. Music to DJ. Haircut/color.
1 week before
Final head count. Seating chart. Place and table cards. Attend parties.
2–3 days before
Final fittings. Deliver items to venue.
Day before
Write checks for balances. Confirm responsibilities with vendors.
Night before
Rehearse ceremony. Marriage license to your officiant. Rehearsal dinner.
Day of
Deliver parent gifts. Officiant's fee.
Post-wedding Rental returns. Clean gown. Thank-you notes.
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Invitations & wedding rings. Formalwear. Wedding cake.
3 months before
Read Chair Publishing, LLC 4300 Rogers Avenue, Suite 20-110 Fort Smith, AR 72903