®
MAJESTIC
january 2021 DoSouthMagazine.com
DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM
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january
Contents 04 09 38
Shop Local
08
Nonprofit Spotlight:
Special Feature:
Comprehensive Juvenile
Health & Wellness
Services, Inc
07
Teacher Spotlight:
Stephanie Hart
22
Naturally United: ARkanvas
Letter from Catherine
{ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT}
06
Get Bookish: January
Recommendations
{TASTE}
30 33
Orange Chicken Stir Fry Cranberry Wild
{COMMUNITY}
{PEOPLE}
10
She Got Game:
Jersey Wolfenbarger
14
Smells Like Victory:
Daryl Fimple
18
Come Up and See Me
Sometime: Carolyn Joyce
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{ T R AV E L }
26
Exploring the Ozarks
{FICTION}
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Songs We Remember:
The Finale
OUR COVER Image Credit: Mt. Magazine - Alan Wagoner Photography alanwagonerphotography.com
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community Letter from Catherine
A
S AY O N A R A 2 0 2 0
As I write, today marks day 281 of the pandemic. Since the start, I’ve struggled through every emotion - frustration, anger, worry, sadness. But I’ve also witnessed a tremendous outpouring of compassion and love from our community as we came together to support others in times of need. Even in isolation, we understand that this is the most shared experience we’ve had in our lifetime. We are stronger together.
There were bright spots during the darkest days of 2020. That extra time with my husband and son that I longed for, I received in abundance. My son opted for virtual learning, so I set up the office, desks side by side. We’ve worked together every day since school began. My heart is happy.
Another blessing was Do South ® being one of the few regional magazines to successfully maintain our monthly frequency during the crisis, rather than combining issues or pivoting to digital-only. And for that, I thank our valued advertising partners who continued to support us. My goal in 2021 is simple - continue our mission to reflect our communities, stay actively engaged, and do our part to make them better! This month, Carolyn Joyce says goodbye to Miss Laura, after portraying her for nearly thirty years. North Little Rock basketball coach, Daryl Fimple, shares the story of how
JANUARY 2021 OWNER - PUBLISHER - EDITOR Catherine Frederick COPY EDITING Charity Chambers GRAPHIC DESIGN Artifex 323 – Jessica Meadors CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Jade Graves, Dwain Hebda, Alan Wagoner CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Lydia Dobbins, Catherine Frederick, Dwain Hebda, Sara Putman, Liesel Schmidt ADVERTISING INFORMATION Catherine Frederick I 479.782.1500 catherine@dosouthmagazine.com
his motivational videos have gone viral. And we’re shining the spotlight on the fantastic Jersey Wolfenbarger, an incredibly talented athlete at Northside High School in Fort Smith who makes her way up the hill next year to play for the Arkansas Razorbacks. Don’t miss your chance to discover twelve art installations sprinkled around Arkansas, thanks to Oz Art’s presentation of ARkanvas, and lace up your hiking boots and enjoy the tranquility of the outdoors as we explore the Ozarks. In times of uncertainty, I remind myself of the bustle and beauty of life that we all long to return. I feel confident that day is on the horizon. I wish you all a healthy and happy new year. The best is yet to come!
Catherine Frederick Owner/Publisher/Editor
FOLLOW US ©2021 Read Chair Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in whole or in part in any manner without the permission of the copyright owner. Opinions contained in Do South ® are exclusively those of the writers and do not represent those of Read Chair Publishing, LLC. as a whole or its affiliates. Any correspondence to including photography, becomes the property of Read Chair Publishing, LLC. Do South ® reserves the right to edit content and images. Printed in the U.S.A. | ISSN 2373-1893
Annual subscriptions are $36 (12 months), within the contiguous United States. Subscribe at DoSouthMagazine.com or mail check to 4300 Rogers Avenue, Suite 20-110, Fort Smith, AR, 72903. Single issues are available upon request. Inquiries or address changes, call 479.782.1500.
catherine@dosouthmagazine.com
To reserve this free space for your charitable nonprofit organization, email: catherine@dosouthmagazine.com.
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community entertainment
Get BOOKISH
Enjoy these four must-read books from our friends at Bookish, Fort Smith, Arkansas’s only independently-owned bookstore. Shop hours: Monday 11am-4pm, Tuesday - Friday 10am-6pm and Saturday 10am-4pm. Need curbside delivery? Call 479.434.2917 or email orders@bookishfs.com.
The Brilliant Life of Eudora Honeysett
Before the Coffee Gets Cold
The Cold Millions
The Searcher
by Annie Lyons
by Toshikazu Kawaguchi
by Jess Walter
by Tana French
If you like Fredrick Backman’s A Man Called Ove , you’ll love Eudora Honeysett! Through dark British humor, this ultimately becomes a story of friendship and kindness. Eudora is quirky and fun, and Lyons’ message of the impor tance of the found family is a profound way to begin the New Year.
Set in a diner in present-day Tokyo, this is a time travel book with heart! There are several rules: You can only go back to a time that occurred in the diner, time starts once you pour the coffee and ends when the coffee gets cold, and several other tedious rules you are introduced to at the beginning of the novel. After the “world” introduction, the background characters slowly emerge in the foreground, and Kawaguchi connects their stories in fascinating and unexpected ways.
Orphans Gig and Rye Dolan do not have a penny to their names. Set in 1909 Spokane, Washinton, Walter sets scenes highlighting the tremendous chasm between the rich and the poor. The themes of family, class, identity, and morality permeate the illustrated language throughout. However, while the theme and subject are quite severe and oddly relevant, the characters and plot make reading the novel a rip-roaring good time. You will love Rye and his loudmouth brother the entire way through.
Cal Hooper thought a fixer-upper in a remote Irish village would be the perfect escape. He is retired after twenty-five years on the Chicago police force and has just gone through a terrible divorce. All he wants is to find a good pub and be left alone. But that isn’t how memory works. When Cal meets a local kid, memories begin to flood in, and readers discover what exactly is troubling Cal. French recreates the very modern-day troubles we see in policing through Cal’s memories, and through it all, we must decide how we ultimately feel about Cal.
January Recommendations courtesy Sara Putman, Bookish
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TEACHER
SPOTLIGHT MRS. STEPHANIE HART
Do South® has joined forces with Bo okish, our area’s only independent bo okstore, to shine the spotlight on deserving teachers in our community! Bo oks from their wish list can be purchased from Bo okish at a twenty percent discount by anyone wanting to show their support! This month, we are proud to introduce you to Stephanie Hart, an eighth-grade science teacher at Paris Middle Scho ol. To all teachers, we love you, and we thank you for all you do!
Tell us about your teaching journey. I began by substitute teaching! After only one year I fell in love and started my journey to obtaining my master’s degree. This will be my 5th year of teaching, 3 of which I taught 7th and 8th grade science at Mulberry and Pleasant View Schools, and the last 2 years teaching 8th grade science at Paris Middle School.
What do you like about being a teacher? I love to open students’ minds to new experiences. My teaching style focuses on hands-on, kinesthetic learning (which can be a bit difficult right now). A favorite project involves students becoming engineers and building rollercoasters. The students struggle at first to meet all the criteria for their ride to be “approved”. As we continue to discuss how forces effect the world around us, they understand they can overcome their trials and tribulations and meet their goals.
PARIS MIDDLE SCHOOL
What is your biggest concern about the 2020 school year?
WISH LIST
My biggest concern is the well-being of students and teachers. This year has required a lot from both sides. With a little grace and compassion, we will get through this school year as a team and come out stronger than before!
The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind by Bryan Mealer and William Kamkwamba Project Mulberry by Linda Sue Park Walking Fish by Kopel Burk and Rachelle Burk Surf Science by Tony Butt Newton and Me by Lynne Mayer
Teachers, we encourage you to complete the short form and add your wish list! You can find the form at Bookishfs.com, on their Facebook page, and at DoSouthMagazine.com.
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community community
Nonprofit Spotlight words Catherine Frederick with Allen Wright, Mentoring Coordinator, Comprehensive Juvenile Services, Inc.
DS: Tell us about the primary services Comprehensive Juvenile Services, Inc. (CJS) extends to our community. CJS provides a multitude of programs that bring a wide range of benefits to our youth and families. Many in our community know and are affected by programs that directly affect our juvenile at-risk or “at-promise” youth that we serve: Casework, Girls Circle and Boys Council support groups, Active Parenting classes, After Hours Supervision, Community Service, Electronic Monitoring, and our Western Arkansas Youth Shelter, (WAYS) located in Cecil, Arkansas, which provides emergency shelter care available twenty-four hours a day for up to sixty days. Our new programs are impacting our community in many ways every day! Our Workforce Readiness Program (Aaron Richardson, Program Coordinator) provides youth with job readiness training and academic assistance to receive their diploma or GED and transition to technical, vocational, or a two-or-four-year college or university. We also offer Support Groups and Life Skill Classes to educate older teenagers on basic skills to help them transition into the adult world. Finally, our
Comprehensive Juvenile Services, Inc.,
Strengthening Families Program (SFP) consists of parenting, children’s, and family skills training courses.
is a private, non-profit, communitybased youth services agency, dedicated to providing needed services to youth
DS: What is the greatest hurdle Comprehensive Juvenile Services, Inc. is facing currently?
age eight through seventeen, and
Our greatest current hurdle is finding mentors willing to spend time with youth
their families in western Arkansas. Do
one-on-one in these times of COVID-19. There are certainly many ways in which
South reached out to Allen Wright,
exceptions to face-to-face contact may be made, such as telephone or zoom
Mentoring Coordinator, to learn more.
calls, FaceTime connections, and a myriad of other ways to stay in touch as we
®
all work through this pandemic. Today’s teens are fully capable and willing to relate to others through technological means, and mentors can provide positive encouragement they may not necessarily receive through their normal social 1606 South "J" Street
media contacts. Another is raising the funds necessary to build a new emergency
Fort Smith, Arkansas 72901
youth shelter closer to the Fort Smith area.
479.785.4031 cjsinc.org
DS: How can members of our community who would like to volunteer or make a financial donation do so? January, being National Mentoring Month, is the perfect time for our community to become more aware and involved in our CJS Operation Positive Direction mentoring program. The purpose of this program is to provide adult volunteers the opportunity
Next month, we’ll showcase another worthy charity in our area free of charge. If you have a nonprofit you’d like to see recognized, email us at catherine@dosouthmagazine.com.
to experience one-on-one mentoring/role model for a young person. Mentors help our youth, ages ten to seventeen, by showing them how to make the right choices, to work hard, and care for their neighbors in need. Mentors play an important role in a young person’s life, particularly if a parent is absent. A mentor’s involvement in the life of a youth can brighten his/her future, help maintain healthy families, and help promote more vibrant communities. If you would like more information on becoming a CJS mentor, please contact Allen Wright, Marketing Manager and Mentoring Coordinator by phone, 479-785-4031 or email, awright@cjsinc.org. Always remember, every youth is just one caring adult away from being a success story. DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM
shop
BABY IT’S COLD OUTSIDE! words Catherine Frederick imageS Jade Graves Photography and courtesy vendors
It may be cold outside, but it’s warm and cozy inside some of our favorite local shops. Mask up and visit them today; you’ll be glad you did! Don’t forget to tell them Do South® sent you!
Laurent-Perrier La Cuvée Champagne and Cuvée Rose Champagne Gift Sets
SODIE’S WINE & SPIRITS 479.783.8013
Tessa Diamond Circle Pendant, Starting at .25cts., Available in 18kt. White, Rose and Yellow Gold Exceptional Eyewear, Innovative Eyecare
JOHN MAYS JEWELERS 479.452.2140
DR. STEVEN B. STILES OPTOMETRY 479.452.2020
Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Glenmorangie Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Knob Creek Rye Old Fashioned Cocktail Kit
IN GOOD SPIRITS 479.434.6604
DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM
Custom Sleep Plugs to Improve the Quality of Your Sleep
CENTER FOR HEARING 479.785.3277
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She Got GAME SENIOR JERSEY WOLFENBARGER BURNS FOR BASKETBALL words Dwain Hebda images courtesy Megan Wolfenbarger
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COACH RICKEY SMITH OF THE FORT SMITH NORTHSIDE Lady Bears has seen ‘em come and seen ‘em go in his decorated career coaching basketball. And even he struggles with becoming tongue-tied in describing his five-star senior Jersey Wolfenbarger. “What do you say that hasn’t already been said?” he says. “Jersey leads by work, leads by example. Her mindset is just come to work every day, show up early, stay late, and get the job done. She’s earned her teammates’ respect by doing that.” Knowing that description falls short of the phenom’s talent – most do – Coach pauses. “Here’s the scary thing,” he says at last. “She’s not anywhere close to where she’s going to be. She’s really not.” Youth athletics are rife with hyperbole when it comes to its stars. Athletes, kids really, are hyped earlier and earlier with very few having
“It’s kind of crazy. You don’t take it for granted, but at the same time you understand where you came from and what your dream was like. I understand my journey is where I started and I kind of challenge myself to never lose sight of that. I think that’s what drives me more than my momentary success, is chasing something even greater.”
even an outside chance to live up to what others say about them. For every LeBron James or Tiger Woods, there are ten, fifty, a hundred who flame out early, crack under the scrutiny or just fade away. Jersey is well aware of this. A student of the game, she knows how the complacency of believing one’s own headlines can rot an athlete from the inside out. Maybe that’s why when you speak to her, she’s liberal in her use of “Sir” and “Ma’am.” Maybe that’s why when you ask her career stats, she sheepishly says she doesn’t know them. Maybe that’s why she’s different. “It is a little weird to see all the buzz. Like, everything’s being hyped up,” she says. “But I was kind of like an underdog, so I guess I have that mentality of success is kind of fleeting. You have to just enjoy the process and enjoy the grind because that buzz can go away in a moment, you know? “It’s kind of crazy. You don’t take it for granted, but at the same time you understand where you came from and what your dream was like. I understand my journey is where I started and I kind of challenge myself to never lose sight of that. I think that’s what drives me more than my momentary success, is chasing something even greater.” That might be Jersey’s most tantalizing aspect, given what she’s done thus far. She led the team to a twenty-eight and one record and the Class 6A state title as a sophomore averaging over twenty-two points, three rebounds, two assists and a steal per game. As a junior, she DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM
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averaged more than eighteen points, six rebounds and nearly four assists, landing Arkansas Gatorade Player of the Year honors in the process. Jersey’s dream began just like thousands of other pee-wees, back when basketball was just another thing she did. “I literally tried almost every sport before I figured out that basketball was my go-to,” she says. “I really didn’t like many outdoor sports. I did track and cross country for a little bit, but [basketball’s] always been my thing so I stuck with it.” From the jump, she was better than most, playing in summer travel leagues that went all over her native Missouri as well as across state lines. She and her parents – Megan Wolfenbarger and Tashina Mailes
But take one look at the many highlight reels of Jersey
– moved to Fort Smith when Jersey was a ninth-grader.
circulating on social media and you see the impossible – an
She became the first, and thus far one of only two, to be
athlete who in most cases would be playing center taking
promoted to play on Northside’s high school squad, which is
players off the dribble or spotting up from the three-point
typically open to grades ten through twelve.
arc then, with equal, devastating effectiveness, dominating the boards and playing the power game inside.
“What separated her from the majority of the players, number one, she’s extremely talented, but also her work
Watching her game film, you see something you’ve never
ethic,” Coach Rickey says. “She’s obsessed with the game
seen before: A player capable of dominating at any of
of basketball. When I say obsessed, I mean literally obsessed
basketball’s five positions. It’s a fact that she acknowledges
with the game of basketball. If there’s anything that she
haltingly, but with a steel in her voice that tells you she won’t
can’t do, she’ll stay and work hours and hours to master
be beaten at any spot.
it. Any new drill, any new move, she’s spending hours and hours and hours a day working on it.”
“It was definitely challenging because I used to be a short, super, super quick guard,” she says. “Then when you hit
Still, few could have imagined what the now-seventeen-
the growth spurt, everything becomes awkward. You start
year-old would have blossomed into.
moving weird and your shot changes.
“Jersey arrived as a five-eight, five-seven, ninety-eight-
“Just trying to figure out how to balance all that, I did a lot
pound runt to be honest,” Rickey says. “She’s now grown
of speed and agility training just to make sure that I kept
to six-five, pushing six-six and still plays the same position as
being explosive so I could play the guard position. Then, I
she did at five-seven and five-eight which is guard.”
also knew that with my height I had to add post play. So, I had to figure out how to use my length to my advantage but
Players as tall as Jersey playing guard is next to unheard-of
still maintain my speed so I can play facing up to the basket.”
in high school, especially for girls. Few basketballers with the height to dominate around the basket are quick
Just like Jersey doesn’t take any night off or cruise through
enough to create their own shot or agile enough to handle
practice on natural ability, so too does her coach strive to
the ball effectively.
keep pushing the buttons to unlock her full potential. DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM
people
“I do find it pretty challenging. I know all the time and sacrifices I pour into being the player that I am,” she says diplomatically. “But at the same time, I appreciate my teammates’ differences. I appreciate the fact that they’re using basketball for joy, whereas I’m using basketball because I’m passionate about it. I want to continue to play.” Coach is more direct in his assessment. “As [Alabama football coach] Nick Saban stated, the really high achievers struggle with people that are not high achievers. It’s difficult for them to comprehend the way people think,” he says. “Then you add the fact that they’re teenage girls and that’s a whole other issue. “You have to find continual challenges,” he says. “When she was a sophomore, I called a ton of fouls on her in practice.
“[Jersey’s] just wired differently. She wants to be the best. A
She’d look at me and it probably wasn’t a foul, but I called a
lot of kids want to be good. A few kids want to be great. But
foul because I wanted her to get in the habit of moving her
there’s very, very few that want to be the best and that’s all
feet and playing defense with her feet and not her hands. It
Jersey wants to be. She doesn’t want to be great. She wants
irritated her a little bit.
to be the best.
“As a junior she comes back, and I didn’t call any fouls. I
Next year, Jersey will have the chance to perform on a much
thought she had to get physically tougher. They would knock
bigger stage, having accepted a scholarship offer from the
her down and she would look at me and I’d be like, ‘I didn’t
University of Arkansas, a school she chose over more than
see a foul.’ You could just see the blood boiling.”
thirty other suitors. But first, she’s got her final Lady Bears season to worry about and another state championship to
“Honestly, Jersey doesn’t need motivation because she is
win. It’s a goal that she’s attacking with desire, commitment
highly motivated herself based off of her work ethic. There’s
and yes, even joy.
a fire burning in Jersey and it’s an intense fire. As a coach, as the staff, our job is to heat the building up with it and
“Basketball’s just so fun to me,” she says. “I would much
if we’re not careful that fire can burn the building down
rather play basketball than any other sport and I find myself
because she’s an intense player. She only wants to do her
getting bored and anxious if I haven’t touched a basketball
best every day.”
in a day. I even go play on Christmas and Thanksgiving in the morning because I just can’t stay away from it.”
History is full of superstars who couldn’t make their teammates better and those who did, but in the process savaged the players who didn’t work as hard or want success as much. Part of Jersey’s effectiveness includes developing the passing skills to make her teammates effective, making
View the Northside Grizzly Girls 2020-2021 Basketball Schedule at www.TheNorthsideGrizzlies.com/Sports/Basketball/Girls/.
teams pay for double or triple-teaming her. In return, she expects full commitment and effort from her mates on par with her own and seethes when she doesn’t get it. DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM
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smells like...VICTORY NORTH LITTLE ROCK COACH IS A SOCIAL MEDIA SENSATION Words and images Dwain Hebda
The Fimples
Daryl Fimple
switches on the camera, glances
at the half-asleep teen in the passenger seat next to him then turns back to address his audience. “Guess what day it is,” he says, his voice rising and pounding one fist into his other hand. “It’s a great day to be alive Wednesday. Greatness! Wednesday is Greatness Day!” Over the next two minutes or so, Fimple extols the benefits of his self-proclaimed Greatness Wednesday for an online audience looking for a fix of motivation. In this particular episode, he extols viewers to start their day with something to inspire greatness. “You say, ‘What would you do, Coach, to make you do great things?’ I’ll tell you what you do,” Fimple says, holding a tube to the camera, showing hand-lettered GREATNESS TOOTHPASTE. “You’re gonna bush your teeth with greatness EVER’DAY!” Welcome to the inspirational and downright hilarious mind of Daryl Fimple, head girls basketball coach for the North Little Rock Charging Wildcats, father of two teenage girls and, since the start of the school year, a bona fide social media sensation. Looking for a way to inspire his daughters in the era of COVID-19, as well as their classmates heading back to school, Fimple began recording and posting short messages, reviving a concept he had a couple of years back.
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“A couple years ago, when [daughter] Katie first started
“The funny thing is, none of it is ever scripted,” Daryl says.
middle school, and it’s a big middle school because it’s almost
“They don’t have a clue what’s going to happen. I might
2,600 people, which is crazy, she was kind of scared,” Daryl
come out in a banana suit and that might be the clue, ‘Oh,
says of the original idea. “So, we did it just one day. We tried
God. What’s he doing now?’ Their reactions are what’s
it one day and everybody laughed and thought it was funny.
priceless because they really don’t know what’s going on. To tell you the truth, I really don’t know what’s going on, either.
“This year, I did the one-day thing and everybody was like,
I just say, hey, this is where we’re going to go.
‘This is awesome! Let’s have another one.’ I started doing another one and then, it just started balling up.”
“I’ll read something about a hammer and a nail or being the captain of a ship and all of that stuff and tweak it. Sometimes,
Daryl’s videos are funny on many levels, combining elements
[people are] like, ‘Are you ever going to end these?’ I don’t
of Dad humor, coaching cliches and a delivery that goes from
know if we can, at this point.”
homespun to intense to meandering in the blink of an eye. His tone, Southern-fried-Will-Ferrell-deadpan, carries even
The videos are so entertaining, it’s hard to pinpoint the
the most ridiculous of concepts, teetering on the edge of
appeal. Daryl insists there’s no character-shaping going on,
cracking himself up. It’s so good, you envy him a little for all
what you see is what you get.
the fun he’s having. “I’ve always been somebody that’s kind of a cut-up. I’ve In addition to Greatness Wednesday, viewers have been
always been fun and the life of the party, liked making
treated to commentary on Feel Good Thursday, Nickname
people laugh,” he says. “I can’t live without laughing. I’m a
Monday, Telephone Tuesday and, frankly whatever else pops
believer and I think the Lord Jesus Christ smiles. I’m sure he
into his head moments before hitting the record button as he
looks at some of the stuff I do sometimes and goes, ‘Man,
sits in the car with cheesy favorites from the 1980s playing in
what is this guy doing?’ But, if you’re not going to be happy,
the background. Daughter Katie and her older sister Payten
it’s hard to get through the day.
often come along for the ride to provide eyerolls.
Payten, Daryl, and Katie Fimple
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“There are too many things that go on and too many
Daryl just shakes his head at the widespread impact his
decisions to be made to feel sorry for yourself every single
two-to-three-times weekly messages to the world appear
day. Another slogan that we always say, ‘Battle on,’ I got
to be having. But for as far as they reach – from the local
from my mom. My mom passed away twelve years ago from
Walmart to halfway around the globe – the connection he
leukemia, and I remember her sitting there and telling us
appreciates most is with his daughters.
that every day is a battle. You’ve just got to battle on. Ever since that, I’ve always thought that every day was important,
“I think Katie enjoys it because a bunch of her classmates’
and you’ve got to make it that way.”
parents started showing them at home. They were like, ‘Katie, what are you going to do tomorrow?’” he says.
Whatever nerve he’s hitting, it’s proving universal. That
“That kind of got her going like, ‘Hey, I don’t know. I never
point was driven home in no uncertain terms when he got
know.’ She got more involved in it because she’s seen the
an out-of-the-blue email from Good Morning America.
impact it was making on her friends.
"It started with GoodmorningAmerica.com. This reporter
“Middle school age, thirteen years old, bless your heart,
watched our videos, she said for twelve episodes or whatever.
you’re going through all kinds of stuff just getting along,
She said, ‘I can’t stop watching these things. I’d like to do
especially now. She was still going face-to-face and not
a story on you guys,’” he says. “Her producer was from the
virtual school. She’s getting to see some of her friends, but
actual Good Morning America show and she told him to start
not all of her friends. It’s just an unheard-of time because
watching them. So, after she did her story, he called and said,
nobody’s ever done any of this stuff before.
‘Hey man, I have not stopped laughing. I don’t have a clue why I’m so attracted to these videos, but these are phenomenal.’
“I think what helped it a lot, too, was Payten was involved, especially early on. When your kids look at you and think
“He wanted to know if they were scripted or if we had a
this is kind of cool and then they get the comments like,
sponsor. He wanted to know all kinds of stuff and I go, ‘No,
‘I didn’t know your dad was that cool!’ I’m like, man,
we had a five-dollar camera holder and that’s it. That’s our
that’s big time."
budget. It’s five dollars so we’re five dollars in the hole right now. If you want to sponsor us, I’m all for that, I guess.’ He
As for the future, he plans on doing these as long as it’s fun
took it and ran it on Good Morning America.”
and as long as people respond. He frequently gets requests for bringing back certain topics and characters, especially
Aided in part by the national exposure, Daryl’s videos have
the Captain of the Ship, complete with sailing cap and a
gained an international following. “It’s amazing how many
mustard yellow blazer.
coaches that I don’t even really know that they follow me. They go, ‘I know what you’re talking about, but you’re
“My wife said I could continue to do it as long as I don’t ever
putting a spin on it that makes it funny,’” he says. “The kids
talk about politics or take a stand on anything. Just have fun
still get a message, but it’s kind of funny because when you
and enjoy the kids and give them a little message,” he says.
try to do it in a stern way, hell, nobody knows what to think.
“Some of them I don’t think are as good as the other ones,
I just put a spin on it where you want it to be lighthearted
but people gravitate to those. They’ll ask if we can make
and still send a message and make people laugh.
another one like it. We’re at the sequel level right now.”
“The funny thing is, if we don’t post, there’s no telling how many people will send me a message like, ‘Are you guys ok? Are you sick? Have you got COVID?’ No, I just didn’t have time to do one today. I’ve been hit up today by people in
Find your greatness with Daryl Fimple’s motivational messages at facebook.com/daryl.fimple.
New Zealand and Australia. I’m going, ‘Goll-ee, guys. I don’t know who you are.’” DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM
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Carolyn Joyce
The first and most obvious question to be asked of Carolyn Joyce, a woman who’s spent nearly thirty years impersonating one of Fort Smith’s most intriguing historic figures, Madame Laura Ziegler, rolls off the tongue with almost salacious delight. What’s a nice girl like you doing in a role like this? “Well, what was she thinking?” Carolyn says of
Come Up and See Me Sometime
MISS LAURA BIDS FAREWELL
words Dwain Hebda IMAGEs courtesy Fort Smith Convention and Visitors Bureau
herself, the sentence awash in a siren’s laugh. “It purely sprang from my imagination. I have no idea where it came from. As I was asked by the New York Times, ‘Did you take your [acting] training in New York?’ I said, ‘Uh, no. I grew up in a cotton patch in Brinkley, Arkansas, with four brothers.’ Growing up on the farm, I really wouldn’t want those people over in Brinkley knowing what I ended up doing. “My husband used to say, ‘It certainly came naturally.’ I didn’t know if that was a positive or a negative.” More laughter. More memories. A pause.
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people
“It’s been a twenty-eight-year run and I mean that in every
highest standards of service and hygiene the industry
sense of the word,” she says, the satisfaction a bell in her
had to offer. Employees were strictly enjoined not to
voice. “It’s been an opportunity of a lifetime. I do not
appear unclothed on the main floor, to maintain a more
discount that whatsoever.”
sophisticated atmosphere. They were required to complete regular medical examinations, from which Miss Laura
Every town has a hundred stories, wispy strings of history
posted their clean bills of health on the wall. She also
that knit together to create the fabric of community and
kept the bawdy, party-like atmosphere within bounds,
lore. Drought and flood, football wins and wartime losses,
enforcing house rules as necessary with the occasional
high cotton and low tides; each soak through the pages of
help from her companion Smith & Wesson.
time and place, ever-changing yet still somehow the same. For this reason, the Social Club was considered the jewel Miss Laura’s Social Club, however, is one strand of Fort
of Bordello Row, charging three times what the other
Smith’s story that stands, as its namesake did, defiantly
houses did, at three dollars a session. Miss Laura had
and resolutely its own, a single glittering thread in
struck pay dirt, paying off in mere months the $3,000
the community tapestry. The last surviving member of
initial loan she negotiated with a local bank to buy
Bordello Row, the Social Club survived a century of the
the former hotel building. But the party wouldn’t last;
natural and moral forces that razed the red-light district’s
changing times, pressure from local reformers, and the
six other houses of ill repute, from fire to hellfire. It
deterioration of the neighborhood led Miss Laura to
withstood strafing by the 1996 tornado, floods in ‘43 and
sell out in 1911 to her employee, Big Bertha Dean, for
2019, and narrowly missed the wrecking ball in 1963.
$47,000 before disappearing into history.
Today, it's completely restored and the only bordello to be on the National Register of Historic Places.
She wouldn’t be heard from again for nearly eighty years when Carolyn, employed by the city’s Convention
That the building is still here at all is an accomplishment
and Visitor's Bureau, brought her back. The context was
that wouldn’t have happened without the work and
different, of course, but the modus operandi was exactly
commitment of many. But two figures stand out for
the same: lure travelers into pulling over, having a good
having put the soul into the story of the house that gave
time and plunking down some money in the process.
the randy district its spark: Laura Ziegler,
the
Vermont
prostitute-
turned-entrepreneur who created the Social Club in 1903 and Carolyn who recreated Miss Laura herself in 1992. “There is no picture of Miss Laura; she was here from 1898 until 1911. We zeroed in on that time frame,” Carolyn said. “This house was the queen of the row when all of the houses were operating. So, I felt like Miss Laura would have been a class act and that’s the way she needed to be portrayed.” Frontier prostitution wasn’t a glamorous way to make a living, but Miss Laura’s Social Club represented the
Miss Laura's Players
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people
“I realized pretty quickly that Fort Smith needed something
group in Fort Smith and giving them the tour. I’d love for you
to help get those motor coaches off the interstate,” she
to stay overnight and spend more time with us. What can I
says. “They were going from Little Rock to Oklahoma City
do to help you make that decision?’” she says. “Their answer
or vice versa, but they just were not coming into Fort Smith.
was immediately, ‘We have to have evening entertainment.’
“I was looking for that marketing opportunity and came up
“Therefore, Miss Laura’s Players was formed, and we started
with this idea and created the character so that I could talk
doing the musical comedy, The Medicine Show on Hanging
to those tour operators when I went to the marketplaces. I
Day. There were ten of us involved in that musical comedy
told them, ‘If you’ll get off the interstate by Miss Laura’s I’ll
and it ran for eighteen years.”
be in costume to greet your group and give a tour of the old Her time as Miss Laura also yielded a lot of media attention
bordello.’ That’s how it started.”
here and abroad, from CSPAN to QVC and the three major It was an idea just crazy enough to work and in short order
networks to print media of all shapes, sizes and readership.
it did. In no time, Carolyn went from having to explain that Fort Smith existed to being a well-known figure in tourism
“You had these media folks calling from around the
industry circles, the sassy lady in the custom-made period
country because they’ve heard about this woman down
costume complete with hat and jewelry.
in Fort Smith who must be crazy because she’s running around portraying a madame. And they would pick up on
“I did things like design my own business card in black and
that,” she says.
red, a card that was recognized and that they’d keep,” she says. “I had my own garment bags made for traveling that I
Between tour groups, media, industry market-places and
carried my costumes in. On the garment bag it simply said,
the stage, Carolyn estimates she has portrayed Miss Laura
‘Miss Laura, Fort Smith, Arkansas.’ Playing around with
thousands of times over the years. But as much as she
things like that, people just started to notice.”
enjoyed the role, time waits for no madame and with the dampening effect of COVID, Carolyn decided to pack up
“Those unfor tunate ones that were
her estimated $30,000 worth of costumes (all paid for out
had to hear all abou t For t Smith
but she knows the positive impact she’s made on behalf of
to the time we arriv ed at the nex t
“When I started going to marketplaces, I had to take a map
seated ne x t to me on airplanes, they
from the time w e left that airpor t
one. Seriously, they knew all abou t For t Smith by the time w e landed.”
Carolyn’s gimmick proved irresistible and her Miss Laura
of her own pocket) and call it a career this fall. She doesn’t know what the future holds for her alter ego in retirement, her adopted hometown.
to show people where Fort Smith, Arkansas, was. I had to point, ‘I’m right here’ and I would circle it,” she says. “The thing I’m most proud of is the fact that I have put Fort Smith on the tourism map, not only around the nation but internationally as well. Folks are well aware of where Fort Smith is now.
persona took on a life of its own. In time she would commission more than twenty period costumes, custom-made
“I have enjoyed portraying Miss Laura like I would have
for her life as Miss Laura both at the CVB and later for a
never imagined. If you had known me growing up in
musical comedy show she developed with other local actors.
Brinkley, I was so bashful. Any of those folks that I went to school with would never think that I’d be standing in front
“After portraying Miss Laura for a year or so I was going back
of crowds performing, that’s for sure. I can tell you that all
to the tour operators saying, ‘I really enjoyed having your
it really took was a costume and an attitude.”
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community
DABSMYLA - Fort Chaffee
Naturally United
words Liesel Schmidt IMAGEs courtesy OZ Art
2020 was a year that , by all accounts,
Throughout 2020, OZ Art, Justkids, and The Unexpected
was filled with challenges on a great many fronts. Political
partnered to produce ARkanvas, an art project designed
unrest, racial tension, and a pandemic that caused health,
to bring together world-renowned artists to create public
emotional and financial crises across the country all combined
art in communities around the state of Arkansas. Cities
to create a time of unprecedented struggle, leaving the entire
including Fort Smith (Chaffee Crossing), Bentonville, Rogers,
nation craving something that seemed almost elusive: Unity.
Springdale, Conway, Little Rock, Hot Springs, Stuttgart, and Pine Bluff have become a canvas for dynamic murals that
It’s a powerful word, one that has inspired great movements
speak to the soul; and the result has been incredible.
all over the U.S., motivating communities to come together in alternate ways when they couldn’t physically be with one
“We wanted to do something to help bring people together,
another. Bridging the great divide in Arkansas is a unique
inspire creativity, and spark some hope in this incredibly
initiative of something that has, for centuries, been a
challenging year,” says Olivia Walton, co-founder of OZ Art
powerful force of expression—art.
and visionary for the ARkanvas initiative. “The theme Unite is meant to bring a sense of togetherness even while we’re
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community
apart. We love that murals bring art to everyone, and we hope that these projects will inspire, spark conversation, and promote civic unity.” Officially announced in October 2020, the idea for ARkanvas was born of a desire to unite people through shared outdoor and art experiences across the Natural State. Of course, part of the challenge was identifying the perfect spaces for these murals. Still, the collaborative effort between the communities and the partners resulted in discovering great opportunities for the participating artists to unleash their creativity and let the art take over. “We hope that people enjoy the artwork and have meaningful discussions about it,” says Elizabeth Miller, OZ Art manager.
Anne Vieux - Bentonville
“In a time when we can’t physically be together, we hope that the artwork brings people together in conversation, whether that be over the phone or Internet or even in socially distanced dialogue while walking past the art. We want the artwork to bring people together in an emotional sense, even when they can’t physically be together.” Naturally, a statewide project such as this requires a driving force; and ARkanvas has three influential visionary organizations placing various tools in the hands of artists. An organization focused on supporting culture, OZ Art brings together a network of art, artists, events, and community experiences. Founded in 2017 by Steuart Walton and Tom and Olivia Walton, OZ Art is devoted to bringing art to everyday life in Arkansas and supports the regional art scene with a collection displayed
Steven Powers - Bentonville
throughout Bentonville and through collaboration with regional arts organizations. Justkids is a multi-disciplinary art platform created by women that provides design, curatorial, and production services for public and private art initiatives. Built on an international network of prominent contemporary artists, curators, and creative teams, the organization provides a wide variety of visual experiences for diverse audiences and communities. To accomplish its goals for furthering the artistic reach and creating unique experiences, Justkids builds relationships with cities, communities, brands, and institutional spaces. Based in Fort Smith, the Unexpected is an award-winning organization that has brought urban and contemporary art,
Youri “MANTRA” Cansell - Little Rock
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community
speakers, and education to Arkansas since 2015. A project of 64.6 Downtown, the Unexpected comprises cultural exchange and community development to bring attention to Arkansas as a place for international art and cultural development. “This is not the first time Justkids and the Unexpected have worked together to deliver public art to Arkansas,” notes OZ Art spokesperson Krista Cupp. “Over the course of five years, they have brought over thirty-five pieces of artwork into public
Lakwena Maciver - Pine Bluff
spaces, including the Rainbow Embassy—a 360-degree takeover at an abandoned house in Fort Smith by Okuda San Miguel— and a mural depicting an owl by Alexis Diaz on the historic former Mountain Inn building in downtown Fayetteville.” As one would expect, the project is about much more than painting buildings with pretty pictures. Under all that paint, there’s something more profound at work. “The work benefits the communities they are in by affecting the people who live there,” Krista explains. “We’re bringing art to our everyday lives, and public art can make us stop and think, reminisce, or reflect. It’s powerful how it can unexpectedly pull us from the exertion of our everyday lives and cause us to take a moment to admire and give thought.” The list of artists behind these massive works is an impressive one curated from all over the world, and their art has the entire nation on notice. Consisting of twelve artworks by twelve artists, ARkanvas is a project spread across 450 miles to include ten paintings, one billboard, and one vinyl work created through the united efforts of 112 pairs of hands. As the website uniquely enumerates, “400+ cans of spray paint, 1500 gallons of paint, 47,210+ square feet of painted surface, nine Monsters, two bi-planes, five hearts, two cyclists, two deer, one coyote, one frog, five birds, nine butterflies, four alligators, four monkeys, one horse, three wristwatches, one pump house, one silo, one water tower, and two basketball courts.” And if that doesn’t raise your curiosity, nothing will. In Bentonville, Nina Chanel Abney brings her contemporary take on abstraction and popular culture through her signature use of shapes and symbols, working in acrylics and spray paint. Adding his touch to the project is Stephen Powers, known all
belies a deeper message about human emotion. Anne Vieux’s signature “misuse” of tools to create innovative art brings a unique inventiveness, while Kevin Lyons and his monsters add a levity that only oversized furry creatures can bring. Painting Hot Springs is Camille Walala, a multi-disciplinary artist known for her work's positivity, which she expresses through vibrant color and bold patterns. In Rogers, Robert Montgomery’s talent for installations created from light and text come to bear, while Youri “Mantra” Cansell’s entomological art bugs out in Little Rock and Bentonville. Lakwena Maciver’s painted prayers and meditations have Pine Bluff taking notice, while Hilda “Poni” Palafox’s use of nature and the female form speak to the people of Springdale. Alex Diaz made Conway a canvas for his chimerical and dreamlike depictions of animals. In Fort Smith, Chaffee Crossing was under the spell of husband-and-wife visual artist team DABSMYLA, whose whimsical style catches the eye and enchants the imagination. Painting Stuttgart, Keya Tama uses her signature iconography and creatures to achieve something unforgettable. “The response to ARkanvas has been wholeheartedly positive. We have seen a lot of people sharing posts about the art on social media and talking about these additions to our communities. Public art brings joy to communities, and that is something we are trying to accomplish through ARkanvas.
For more information on this initiative, including the artists, installations, and locations, visit www.arkanvas.com. Also, stay connected to art via 646downtown.com, unexpectedfs.com, ozartnwa.com, and justkids.art.
over the world for text-based conceptual art whose whimsy DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM
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travel
Exploring the
Ozarks
words Lydia Dobbins IMAGEs courtesy Lydia Dobbins and Arkansas Department of Tourism
From the beginning, those that inhabited the Ozarks were
makes a very fragrant jelly! Gathering edibles turned into a
resourceful and leaned on the natural surroundings for
mission. We turned long, three-to-five-mile, arduous hikes,
food, solace, and inspiration. This past year has shown us
into foraging adventures that involved snacking along the
the importance of unplugging and taking time to rediscover
trail and making goodies for later. From dandelion greens,
nature’s abundance, which is plentiful in Arkansas! My
blueberries, wild bergamot, violets, and raspberries, we
family has found a sense of peace in a year of uncertainty
ate our way up and down trails during the summer, always
as we foraged local edibles, floated numerous creeks and
referencing our Foraging the Ozarks book by Bo Brown.
rivers, and enjoyed the beauty of surrounding highlands. We have found that hiking with kids becomes more about This spring, our children were home full-time. I was
the discovery of things, than about reaching the destination.
homeschooling, working, and trying to keep my sanity,
We specifically search out hikes that are 1.5 to 5 miles,
when I found myself making jelly for the first time. We ran
rated easy to moderate, take a lot of snacks and water,
across a patch of honeysuckle on a hike one day and the
and understand that we will be stopping for rock hopping
kids and I gathered some honeysuckle flowers to enjoy for
and tree climbing all along the trail. There are many apps
later. Much to our surprise, we discovered honeysuckle
available for reference, but our favorite is All Trails. It is
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travel
a great resource to locate trails in your area and gives a
Homestead Trail, 3-mile loop
good description of the length and intensity of the trail.
LEE CREEK, VAN BUREN
I always like to read through some of the reviews as to things to look for along the trail, like missing trail markers,
Crack in the Rock Trail, 1.5 miles
little quirks each season of hiking that trail, and of course
LEE CREEK, VAN BUREN
reviews about finding the location of the trail. Always keep in mind cell service in the area of your trail and either makes
Lake Alma Trail, 4-mile loop
notes in case you lose service or buy a great map that breaks
LAKE ALMA, ALMA
the state down by region, so your county roads and markers will be easier to find. I have maps of Arkansas, Missouri,
Warren Hollow Trail, 1.5 miles
Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho in my car for the specific
LAKE FORT SMITH, MOUNTAINBURG
purpose of trails and use them often.
Shepherd Springs Loop 3.6 miles LAKE FORT SMITH, MOUNTAINBURG
SOME OF OUR FAVORITE HIKES CLOSE TO TOWN ARE: For those looking to adventure further out, I’ve included
Oak Savannah Trail, 1.7 miles
a list of our favorite hikes in the highlands and hollows of
JANET HUCKABEE NATURE CENTER, FORT SMITH
waterproof hiking boots, as creek crossing and muddy
Field and Forest Trail, 1.1 miles
bottoms are abundant, and don’t forget wool socks to
JANET HUCKABEE NATURE CENTER, FORT SMITH
Cemetery Loop Trail 1.3 miles LEE CREEK, VAN BUREN
the Ozarks. We try to always hike some of these trails with
prevent blisters, and hiking poles. As the trails go deeper into the highlands, bluffs and crags will be abundant and sure footing and additional hiking poles will come in handy as you cross this terrain. Hiking these trails are fantastic adventures with the kids but always be aware of drop-offs
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travel
and crumbling rock as safety should always be a priority
those who have a passion for their sport and the outdoors.
for the whole family.
Most often those working in an outdoor store have extensive knowledge about your interests and often will divulge some local secrets to the hidden gems that may
Yellow Rock, 2.7-mile loop
often go overlooked. Whether your interest is foraging,
DEVILS DEN, WINSLOW, AR
photography, hiking, kayaking, flyfishing, or mountain
Buckhorn/Lee Creek Trail, 2 miles
biking, the Ozark highlands are beckoning! Will you answer the call?
DEVILS DEN, WINSLOW, AR
Glory Hole Waterfall Trail, 1.8 miles OZARK NATIONAL FOREST, DEER, AR
Lost Valley Trail, 2.1 miles OZARK NATIONAL FOREST, PONCA, AR
Indian Rock House, 3.3-mile loop BUFFALO NATIONAL RIVER, YELLVILLE, AR
Indian Rock House is a fantastic hike that leads to the Indian Rock House Cave the Native Americans sheltered under and has a spring at the base of the cave, making it very cool in the summer. If you are hiking this trail in the summer, bring appropriate swimming attire to hop into the many swimming holes for a cool down. We like to hike together as a family and let a parent be the leader to watch for narrow parts on the trail and hidden critters that may be moving across the trail. Consider turning your hiking adventure into a weekend retreat and pack up the tent for a relaxing weekend in the Ozarks or stay in the Buffalo National River cabins for an early settler’s experience. Make sure to drive over to Mountain View to explore Blanchard Spring Caverns, Craft Village at the Ozarks Folk Center to experience artisan’s heritage skills and stay for the music performances at the Ozark Folk Center. Each spring our family makes the trip, and the kids love every minute of the Ozark highlands experience! The Ozarks are a hidden jewel and the locals relish in them in all seasons. If you are interested in searching out your next adventure and unsure where to start, always source your local outdoor store for expert advice from
Planning your next outdoor adventure? Visit The Woodsman Company for all your adventure needs! 5609 Rogers Ave, Suite D, Fort Smith, Arkansas 479.452.3559 | thewoodsmancompany.com
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taste
Recipe Adapted Timolina/Shutterstock image TIMOLINA/Shutterstock
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taste
ORANGE CHICKEN STIR-FRY (4 servings)
Prep the sauce: Combine orange juice,
For the sauce
sweet chili sauce, honey, soy sauce,
° ¾ cup fresh squeezed orange juice
cornstarch, and orange zest to a large
° 2 Tablespoons honey (or agave)
bowl; whisk until cornstarch is dissolved.
rice wine vinegar, hoisin sauce, ginger,
° 3 Tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
Set aside.
° 1 Tablespoon sweet chili sauce
Preheat large skillet and add 1 Tablespoon
° 1 Tablespoon hoisin sauce
of
° ½ Tablespoon ginger, freshly grated ° 1 Tablespoon cornstarch
oil
over
medium-high
heat.
Add
chicken, with salt and pepper, cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a bowl, set aside.
° 1 teaspoon rice wine vinegar
To the same pan, add remaining oil (½
° zest from large orange
Tablespoon). Add minced shallot, cook until translucent, about 2 minutes. Add
For the stir-fry
garlic, peppers, and green beans, sauteing
° 1 ½ Tablespoons toasted sesame oil, divided
or beans.
for 5 minutes. Don’t overcook the peppers
° 1 lb. boneless skinless chicken tenders,
cut to bite-sized pieces
Pour prepared orange sauce into the pan with peppers and beans. Add chicken
° 1 shallot, minced
and continue stirring. Reduce heat to
° 3 garlic cloves, minced
medium-low. Allow to simmer and sauce
° ½ large red bell pepper, cut to bite-sized strips ° ½ large yellow bell pepper, cut to bite-sized strips ° 8 oz. fresh green beans, cut to bite-sized pieces ° ¼ cup green onion, sliced ° salt and pepper
to thicken, 2-3 minutes. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired. Serving Suggestions: Serve with cauliflower or jasmine rice – even quinoa. You can also substitute the green beans for other season vegetables like broccoli or asparagus!
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taste
Cranberry Wild Recipe adapted brit.co image Vladislava Sokolova/Shutterstock
ingredients ° 2 Tablespoons Cointreau ° 2 ½ oz. vodka ° 2 ½ oz. cranberry juice ° 1 teaspoon cranberry sauce (optional) ° Juice from ½ a lime, plus more for garnish ° Fresh or frozen cranberries (garnish) ° 2 sprigs fresh rosemary (garnish)
method Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add Cointreau, vodka, cranberry juice, cranberry sauce and juice of half a lime. Shake vigorously to combine. Strain into glasses filled with ice. Garnish with whole cranberries, a lime wheel and a sprig of fresh rosemary.
Please drink responsibly. Never drink and drive.
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fiction
r e b m e m e R e W s Song PART II
words Liesel Schmidt image ssuaphotos/Shutterstock
M Y C URIOSITY OVER the past sixteen years had
I took a deep breath and let my fingers wander over the
been a constant ebb and flow, heightening every so often
screen of my phone, entering one digit at a time into my
to the point that I would hunt for any and every scrap of
text messages before I typed out words that made my
information, clicking through page after page in Google
heart beat faster with every letter. Hi, Matthew. It’s Annie
searches, scrolling through Facebook. I did it all, hoping
Wallace. Do you remember me?
to find something on the one name that haunted my memory. And then I saw it: a current listing. Name, phone
*******
number, and address accompanied by various facts about his past residences and family members, none of whom
The sound of silence is deafening when you’re waiting for
were a wife.
an answer, and over the next two days, I was a constant
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bundle of nerves. Every chime of my text messages sent a
Part of me was relieved that he wasn’t so close that we
wave of anxiety over me, leaving me wondering what if it
could meet for coffee, the other wishing that he was. Still,
was Matthew and what it would say. My sister’s disapproval
I’d seen it in all my searches and knew right where he
over the whole thing didn’t help, which left me second-
was before he’d told me. This was just confirmation that
guessing something that I had no way of undoing. Two
sometimes the Internet really did get it right.
painful days of waiting later, a response I had been hoping I stared at the screen and wondered what to say next.
for and dreading finally came.
There were so many things I could say, so many things I’d always imagined saying in some fantasy scenario where
Hi, Annie.
I’d run into him on the street. Of course, it hadn’t ever I could almost hear the pounding of my heart as I read
happened; and now here I was, sitting with a phone in my
those two words over and over again.
hand and at a loss for words.
Hi, Annie.
DC, huh? That’s definitely a change from our sleepy little area, isn’t it? Even as I tapped out the words, I shook my
As long as I’d been waiting, I wasn’t sure what to say next.
head at the inane conversation that seemed to be playing
Do you know that you broke my heart? Do you know how
itself out under my fingertips. But really, what choice
much I loved you? Do you ever think of me? I wanted to
did I have? It had been so long. And it was ridiculous
say all of those things, but I knew I couldn’t.
to expect him to remember our time together colored through the same lenses as I did. I’d loved him, and he
It’s been a long time. How have you been? I typed.
hadn’t returned the feelings, simple as that. But it hadn’t been. Not really.
Three little dots chased themselves over the screen as a reply formulated on the other end.
Very big change. But I do like the area, and I enjoy my work.
I’m good. Made Lt. Col. I’m almost at my 20 and can retire
I couldn’t help but smile at that—this from the guy who’d
soon, but I think I’ll hang out a while longer. How are you?
considered Top Gun to be the best movie ever made and who, whenever a fighter jet passed overhead, would grin
I felt my eyes widen. It really had been a long time. I
and say, “That’s the sound of freedom.”
wondered what he looked like now, at forty-one. The last That’s important. I’m glad you’re doing well, Matthew. I
time I’d seen him, he’d been twenty-five.
know it’s probably strange hearing from me after so many I’m fine. I’m a writer now. I paused. Should I say that
years. I paused, wondering how to explain it. I was just
I wasn’t married? No. He hadn’t asked, and he hadn’t
catching up with some old friends, and I thought I’d reach
offered up any information on that subject himself.
out. There. That sounded innocent enough. And plausible.
So where are you living now? I hit Send, satisfied that the
It’s good to hear from you, he replied.
question was innocuous enough. I didn’t want to show my hand and let him know how far my research had gone.
I blinked at the screen. That was a relief…at least he didn’t
After all, this was a phone number he’d had for quite a
seem to think the whole thing odd. But he also hadn’t
long time.
given me any real clue that he actually remembered who I was. I decided to test him. Interesting fact—you and I met
More dots.
around this time of year… I trailed off on the text, anxious to see what he sent back.
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I remember. I hadn’t been in town that long and I think Ryan
Marriage and divorce do a lot to give you perspective. It
was still crashing on the floor of my apartment. Good times.
was an honest answer, and I appreciated his candor.
It was all I needed. He remembered.
I imagine they do. Thank you for that, Matthew. What else could I say? I was glad to know that he knew what had
They were. I wrote back. But what about those times I had
happened—really happened—and took responsibility for
to smile at you while you were breaking my heart? And
the way he’d kept me spinning.
why did I let you? So, what now? I typed. Indeed, what now? Even though I’d started this exchange, I almost willed it to stop. I felt everything pressing down on my chest, all those
Now, I guess maybe we could start being what you said
days I’d spent wondering how everything about someone
before. Friends? His words were both kind and hopeful,
could be so right if it wasn’t meant to be. All those tears
and I remembered the crooked smile of the young pilot I’d
I’d shed over a life that would never be mine, even at the
known so long ago.
same time as I was in the middle of something that could easily pass for a serious relationship. It had been painful,
Friends.
but the pain of it seemed worth it on the off chance that he would wake up and see what was right in front of him.
Six months later…
He just never had.
“Hang on, Maggie, there’s someone knocking on my door,” I said into the phone, getting up from my desk to see who
I looked back at my phone, realizing I’d been lost in
was there. The past six months had a whirlwind of work.
thought. Minutes had ticked by without another response
I’d also done a lot of healing from those old wounds, and
from his end, and I wondered if one was coming.
Matthew and I had been talking almost every day.
I’m glad you reached out. Three little dots danced on
I padded to the door in my bare feet, noting the fact that
the screen. I know it’s been a long time, but I want to
I’d barely taken time to put on mascara and change out of
apologize for how things were left with you.
my pajamas that morning. Not bothering to look through the peephole, I opened the door, expecting to find only a package.
It took a minute for his words to register. The phone fell from my hand and clattered to the floor. What do you mean? I typed back, feeling my heart pound and the color rise in my face.
“Hi, Annie,” said the man standing there.
I didn’t treat you with the respect I should have. I knew
And somewhere in the world, Colin Hay was surely singing
your feelings, and I didn’t handle them the way you
“Waiting for My Real Life to Begin.”
deserved. I’m sorry about that. Tears stung my eyes and clouded my vision. What brought you to this realization? The wisdom of age,
Read Part I of Songs We Remember , in our December, 2020 issue.
or some other source of enlightenment? I asked.
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HEALTH & WELLNESS
HEALTH & WELLNESS 2020 was one for the record books. Today, it’s more important than ever to give our full attention to our health and wellness. In the following pages, you will discover local professionals who are experts at helping you feel and look your best, no matter your age or stage in life. Commit to your health and wellness, and let’s make 2021
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our best year yet!
HEALTH & WELLNESS
7000 Chad Colley Blvd, Fort Smith, Arkansas 479.308.2243 acheedu.org Arkansas Colleges of Health Education (ACHE) is a private, not-for-profit institution located on 430 acres in Fort Smith. ACHE’s first college, the Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine (ARCOM) is set to graduate its ACHE opened its second building that will be the home to developing programs: School of Physical Therapy, School of Occupational Therapy, and Physician Assistant Studies. ACHE PT will welcome its first class in June 2021. ACHE recently announced the purchase of the ACHE Research Institute Health & Wellness Center, that will contain a biomedical research laboratory and space for transformational initiatives in health and wellness.
If you are one of the millions who suffer from painful and unsightly vein conditions, such as varicose veins and venous ulcers, Arkansas Vein Clinic and Skin Care can provide the relief you deserve! Led by medical director Dr. Norma Smith, Arkansas Vein Clinic and Skin Care offers personalized care for each patient to determine the most effective treatment. Their mission is to alleviate pain and return patients to their active lifestyles. Services are in-office, so you can return to work the same or next day and are covered by most insurance plans.
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inaugural class of 150 medical students in May 2021.
8101 McClure Drive, Suite 101 Fort Smith, Arkansas 479.484.7100 arveinandskincare.com
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HEALTH & WELLNESS
HEALTH & WELLNESS
4300 Rogers Ave. Suite #15 Fort Smith, Arkansas 479.785.3277 centerforhearing.net
3324 South M Street, Fort Smith, Arkansas 479.782.6302 / 800.262.9917 reynoldscancersupporthouse.org
Center for Hearing is proud to be the first clinic in the
In
area to offer Cognivue screenings to patients. The results
organized to provide non-medical services, counseling,
gathered from this new technology help our audiologists
transportation, and support for cancer patients and
have a greater understanding of your cognitive health
their families. We offer an array of programs and
while ensuring a hearing-correction solution that is
services, including wigs, hats, turbans, and other hair
right for you. Hearing is a brain activity, your ears hear
loss needs, postmastectomy supplies, transportation
the sounds, but it's your brain that makes sense of
assistance
them. If your hearing loss is untreated and you’re not
support groups led by license facilitators, nutritional
hearing the number of noises you once did, your brain
supplements, nutrition classes, medical equipment
is not processing those noises. This can lead to under-
and supplies, low impact fitness classes, emergency
stimulation and loss of the brain staying sharp. Hearing
financial
health and brain health, call 479-785-3277 to schedule
patient navigation and so much more!
1978,
the
to
and
Cancer
and
Support
from
prescription
Foundation
treatment,
assistance,
was
emotional
one-on-one
an appointment today!
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HEALTH & WELLNESS
226 Skyler Drive, Charleston, Arkansas 479.965.7373 greenhurst.net Greenhurst Nursing Center is Rated 5 Stars! For three
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generations, Greenhurst has continued a tradition unlike any other in the state of Arkansas. "We are lucky to have a sense of pride in our community, and love in our hearts, when it comes to providing quality care for our elderly," states Halie Schaffer, owner of Greenhurst. "Our primary focus is always our residents, and training our employees to be respectful, hardworking, and educated caregivers," Halie noted when asked about a secret to success. Greenhurst has built one of the best reputations in the state, and with hard work and quality care, the third generation has continued this success.
Ann K. Passmore, M.D., F.A.C.S 7805 Phoenix Avenue, Fort Smith, Arkansas 479.242.2442 passmoreplasticsurgery.com It’s time to wow them when you unmask. Achieve a new look in the new year by combining affordable pricing with the expertise of Dr. Ann Passmore. Voted Best of the Best for the past six years, Dr. Passmore offers virtual consultations or in-person appointments at her new Phoenix Avenue location. At Passmore Plastic Surgery, you’ll receive products and procedures selected for your skin and your budget, and the best possible results from a Board-Certified cosmetic surgeon. 2020 is behind us. It’s a brand-new year. Celebrate a new you and call for a consultation today!
HEALTH & WELLNESS
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HEALTH & WELLNESS
Health for the Ages No matter your stage in life, there are many things you can do to care for your body as you age. Check out the tips below then commit to putting them into action!
20s
• Be aware of what you’re putting in your body. Read labels, they matter.
30s
• Take care of your bones with a calcium supplement and exercise.
• Diet and low-cal drinks still contain calories which add up quickly. • Sunscreen. Wear it. Protect yourself against skin cancer and age gracefully.
• Boost your brain with high-intensity interval training (HIT), a proper diet, brain games, and adequate sleep. • Eliminate sugars, especially from desserts, coffee, and juices.
40s
• Make sure you include a large portion of leafy green vegetables with all meals– smoothies are a great way to include them for breakfast. • Master your metabolism with exercise. Get active with an activity you enjoy; think
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running, Pilates, hiking, or swimming.
50s
• Even if you’ve created bad habits in your 30s and 40s, you have time to make changes.
60s 70s
• Stay active, both mentally and physically, doing some sort of exercise daily, whether
ALL AGES
• Discover a new activity, run a race, pick up a new hobby. • Know your body and stay on top of health screenings.
it's a short walk or a morning swim. • Enjoy outdoor activities like the farmer’s market, walks in local parks and art exhibits. • Create a safe environment at home. Eliminate areas of concern that could lead to falls and possible bone fractures. • Make sure you have an established relationship with a primary care provider so they can care for you through all of life’s stages. • Be aware of and schedule healthcare screenings by age and state of life.
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Josh Wilkinson, MD 5901B Riley Park Drive, Fort Smith, Arkansas 479.763.3050 premierpediatricsfs.com Hey Moms-to-be! Premier Pediatrics loves newborns. If schedule a “meet and greet” before your newborn arrives so we can answer all your questions and introduce you to the clinic. You’ll have peace of mind knowing we’re here for routine visits and after hours on nights and weekends for urgent care if you need us. A pediatric practice for the expected, the unexpected, and everything in between. Primary Care and Urgent Care for Kids from Infant to Teen.
Locally owned and operated since 1998, Total Health & Rehabilitation, Inc. offers the most comprehensive Parkinson's program in the region! We can serve your Speech and Physical Therapy needs using some of the most effective, evidencebased programs such as LSVT Big and Loud, Speak Out & Loud for Parkinson's, our Martial Therapy Boxing Program, and Tai Chi! Benefits include reducing resting tremors, improved balance and coordination, neuro and cardiovascular health, and normal gait. Our therapists can also help with the spine, orthopedics, TMJ, headaches, sprains & strains, cardiopulmonary, neuromuscular & neurological conditions, arthritics, pre & post-operative rehab, fibromyalgia, vestibular disorders, neck & back pain, sciatica, myofascial release, massage therapy & peripheral neuropathy.
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you’re looking for a doctor for your baby, we invite you to
5905 Remington Circle, Fort Smith, Arkansas 479.452.7773 totalrehabfs.com
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HEALTH & WELLNESS
Perhaps you've always liked the idea of a "clean slate." Maybe it's the thought of a second chance, another opportunity to make your mark. Perhaps that's why you have the desire to write on a fresh, clean whiteboard or run across a field of newly fallen snow. Doing so leaves a mark. Every January, we have the chance at a "clean slate." A second try. Another opportunity to change the result. All it takes is ONE STEP. A single step on DAY ONE, and your DAY is WON. This is 202WON and JANUARY ONE IS YOUR DAY WON. True Grit is the ONE place to help you do just that. Let us help you take that first step!
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6808 Rogers Avenue, Suite B Fort Smith, Arkansas 479.434.3571 truegritrunningco.com
2101 Dallas Street, Fort Smith, Arkansas 808 S. Broadway St., Poteau, Oklahoma 479.782.3021 / 918.647.7272 udoujorthodontics.com Udouj Orthodontics has provided orthodontic excellence since 1972! At the office of Dr. Henry J. Udouj, III, we provide exceptional orthodontic care in a friendly and compassionate atmosphere. We utilize the latest technological advances and offer comprehensive orthodontic treatment for children, teens, and adults, including early interceptive and growth modification treatment and treatment with fixed braces. We design your orthodontic treatment to suit your lifestyle and personal preferences, from traditional metal brackets and wires to tooth-colored appliances. For patients who desire a more aesthetic look, we offer ceramic braces and clear aligners. Call today and let us help you create a beautiful, healthy smile!
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8101 McClure Dr. Ste 301, Fort Smith, Arkansas 479.242.8300 jameskelly3md.com Surgery of any kind should not be taken lightly and choosing to have plastic surgery or hand surgery requires thorough research and educated decision making. The qualifications and experience of a surgeon must be considered and ensure the facilities are certified. Dr. Kelly, Board Certified in Plastic Surgery and Hand Surgery has provided quality cosmetic and hand surgery services since 1996. Our office utilizes state-of-the-art equipment, emphasizing
proper
disinfection
and
sterilization
techniques for your safety and comfort. Our friendly, knowledgeable, and well-experienced staff are ready to answer your questions. Dr. Kelly accepts most insurances and performs surgery at Mercy Hospital Baptist Health in
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Fort Smith. Our number one priority is your well-being.
Read Chair Publishing, LLC 4300 Rogers Avenue, Suite 20-110 Fort Smith, AR 72903