Do South Magazine May 2026

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50 Years’ Combined Experience FORT SMITH PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

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CMC ASSET MANAGEMENT: PROFESSIONAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT 24/7

We work to MAXIMIZE YOUR RENTAL INCOME with expert property management while keeping your tenants happy through EXCEPTIONAL MAINTENANCE AND CARE.

YOUR CHALLENGES

Owning rental property comes with constant demands:

• Maximizing income while controlling costs

• On-time rent collection and payment processing

• Accurate, transparent reporting

• Ongoing property maintenance and repairs

OUR SOLUTION

Let us handle the headaches for you. With 50 YEARS’ COMBINED EXPERIENCE , we deliver expert property management so you can relax and enjoy the return on your investment.

MAY

SSome things don’t leave us.

Not the places, not the people, not even the smallest moments we didn’t realize mattered at the time. They settle in quietly, shaping the way we see the world long after we’ve moved on.

While putting together this issue, I kept coming back to that idea—of memory, and the way it connects us.

You see it in the friendships that begin in childhood and somehow find their way back to us years later, just as meaningful as they were in the beginning. You see it in the people who pour into others, leaving a lasting impression not just through what they do, but through how they make people feel. And you see it in the places we return to—or the things we hold onto—because they remind us of who we were and the moments that shaped us.

There’s a certain kind of nostalgia that feels especially present this time of year. Maybe it’s the way May signals both an ending and a beginning. School years wrap up, there are graduations and weddings, routines shift, and summer begins to take shape. We start revisiting traditions—planning trips, gathering with family, returning to familiar places while making room for something new.

In this issue, those themes show up in ways that feel both personal and shared. They remind us that while life continues to move forward, the connections we build and the memories we carry, are what give it meaning.

You’ll also find our annual All About Kids: Summer Edition, filled with ideas for the months ahead, along with a few delicious recipes perfect for celebrating everything from Mother’s Day to Cinco de Mayo. It’s a great excuse to slow down, gather close, and make the most of the season.

As you flip through these pages, I hope you’re reminded of the moments that have stayed with you, and maybe even inspired to create a few new ones along the way. And if a story comes to mind—one that still makes you smile, one that shaped you in some small but meaningful way—I’d love to hear it. After all, the best stories are the ones we share.

To inquire about

MAY 2026

OWNER

PUBLISHER - EDITOR

Catherine Frederick

COPY EDITING

Charity Chambers

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Jessica Meadors, Meadors Creative Co.

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Marla Cantrell

Catherine Frederick Dwain Hebda

ADVERTISING

Catherine Frederick 479.782.1500

catherine@dosouthmagazine.com

MAY EVENTS

MAY 1, 9A-3P / FORTSMITHCHAMBER.ORG

2026 BUSINESS EXPO & CAREER FAIR

Fort Smith Convention Center, Fort Smith

MAY 1-2 / THESTEELHORSERALLY.COM

STEEL HORSE RALLY

Downtown Fort Smith

MAY 1-3 / GREENWOODFINEARTSACADEMY.ORG

GFAA PRESENTS: DISNEY MOANA, JR.

Greenwood Performing Arts Center

MAY 2, 8A / WHILEWEREWAITING.ORG

LEI LEI'S 5K AND MEMORY MILE

Wells Lake, Fort Smith

MAY 2, 8A / ARKANSASOUTSIDE.COM

MOUNT MAGAZINE TRAIL RUN

Mount Magazine State Park, Paris

MAY 2, 10A-4P / FACEBOOK

SPRINGTIME IN PARIS FESTIVAL

Paris Downtown Square

MAY 2-3 / WABALLET.ORG

WAB PRESENTS: SNOW WHITE & A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM

ArcBest Performing Arts Center, Fort Smith

MAY 2-3 / SKOKOSPAC.ORG

ALMA DANCE SHOW PRESENTS: LEGENDS

Skokos Performing Arts Center, Alma

MAY 7, 6P / ARKANSASTRUEVISION.COM

CHUCKLES FOR A CAUSE

ACHE Research Institute, Fort Smith

MAY 9-10 / KAYRODGERSPARK.ORG

OLD FORT FUTURITY & SUPER DERBY

Kay Rodgers Park, Fort Smith

MAY 9-10 / OLDTOWNVANBUREN.COM

OLD TIMER'S DAY

STEAMPUNK FESTIVAL

Main Street, Van Buren

MAY 14-16 / GREENWOODMUSEUMONLINE.COM

AIRING OF THE QUILTS

Sen. Ed Wilkinson Pavilion, Greenwood

MAY 15-16 / CTKSCHOOLFS.COM

CHRIST THE KING CARNIVAL

Christ the King, Fort Smith

MAY 16, 8A / CHAFFEECROSSING.COM

CHAFFEE CROSSING FOOD & ARTISANS MARKET

7801 Ellis Street, Fort Smith

MAY 16, 6P / FACEBOOK TRIVIA NIGHT

The Resolve Center at The Bricks, Fort Smith

*BenefittingTheNextStepHomelessServices

MAY 24 / VANBUREN.ORG

MEMORIAL DAY RODEO PARADE

Main Street Historic District, Van Buren

MAY 25-30 / OLDFORTDAYSRODEO.COM

OLD FORT DAYS RODEO

Kay Rodgers Park, Fort Smith

MAY 28-JUNE 6 / FSLT.ORG

FSLT PRESENTS:

LAST OF THE RED HOT LOVERS

Fort Smith Little Theatre, Fort Smith

MAY 30, 8:30A / ARKANSASCANCERCOALITION.ORG

SURVIVOR'S CHALLENGE 2026

Ben Geren Regional Park, Fort Smith

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

ACHE RESEARCH INSTITUTE HEALTH AND WELLNESS CENTER –FORT SMITH

Class times, ages, and registration, visit: WELLNESSCENTERCLASSES.AS.ME

CERAMICS & ART

May 14: Homeschool Hangout, Garden Gnomes

May 20: Adult Pottery Wheel

Kids classes ages 5+ / Adult classes ages 18+

CODING AND COMPUTER CLASSES

Homeschool STEM: Wed. & Thur.

FITNESS & DANCE

(no classes May 25-29)

Barre: Mon.-Thur.

Strength & Tone: Wed. / Sat..

Mat Pilates: Thur.

Yoga: Mon./Wed./Fri.

Mixed Yoga: Thur.

Gentle Yoga (55+): Fri.

End of Day Stretch (30 min): Wed.

Moving w/ Parkinson’s: Wed.

Adult Ballet: Tues./Thurs.

Beg. Ballet: Tues.

Kids with DanceAbility: Tues.

HYDROPONIC GARDENING

May 12: Home/After-school Hydroponics

FORT SMITH REGIONAL ART MUSEUM – FORT SMITH

FSRAM.ORG

RAM Saturdays: 12-3p (FREE)

Guided Tours: Select Sundays, 1p

Paint ‘N’ Sip: One Friday per month, 5-7p

To May 10: Ozark Regionalists & John Bell, Jr. & John Bel l,

Beautiful Country Living, Thoughtfully Designed.

UNDER THE YELLOW LIGHTS

THE 99TH ANNUAL CTK CARNIVAL

words and images CHRIST THE KING CATHOLIC SCHOOL

Grab your kids, friends, and neighbors and head to Christ the King Catholic School in Fort Smith on Friday, May 15, and Saturday, May 16, from 6pm to 11pm for a weekend filled with fun, community spirit, and cherished tradition!

Now in its ninety-ninth year, the CTK Carnival continues to shine “Under the Yellow Lights,” bringing families together for an exciting celebration. More than just a fun-filled event, the carnival serves as a vital fundraiser, helping provide a quality Catholic education for both Catholic and non-Catholic students, from 18 months to 5th grade. Every ticket purchased and every game played helps support the school’s mission of fostering academic excellence, faith, and service.

Exciting Games & Rides for All Ages

Whether you’re looking for heart-pounding fun or classic carnival nostalgia, there’s something for everyone! Try your luck at the fan-favorite Shamrock game, where big prizes await. Test your skills at Hang to Win, Operation, or the dunking booth, where you just might send a familiar face splashing into the water. Adventurous guests can take on the much-anticipated mobile escape room, a thrilling test of teamwork and problem-solving.

For younger carnival-goers, there’s no shortage of excitement! Bounce the night away in the bouncy houses, get your face painted, or try the softball throw! With attractions designed for all ages, everyone can join in on the fun!

Delicious Food & Refreshing Drinks

No carnival is complete without delicious treats, and the CTK Carnival is bringing a variety of mouthwatering options! Satisfy your sweet tooth with cotton candy, funnel cakes, and ice cream, or cool off with fresh Mexican fruit drinks. Looking for something savory? Enjoy egg rolls, pupusas, Mexican corn, burgers, and more! Adults can relax and enjoy the evening with a selection of beer and wine, while kids enjoy their favorite carnival classics.

Live Entertainment & Auction

As you stroll through the carnival, soak in the lively atmosphere filled with live music and entertainment. Enjoy performances from talented local artists while bidding on an incredible selection of auction items, featuring one-of-a-kind experiences, exclusive packages, and unique treasures.

Don’t miss headliners, Marshall Cogburn on Friday and Unknown Causes on Saturday, bringing energy you won’t want to miss!

What Comes Next?

At GetREAL, young adults aging out of foster care are building independence, step by step, together.

Not every young adult has someone in their corner when life gets hard. Someone to call, someone to encourage them, someone to remind them they’re capable. For young people aging out of foster care, that kind of consistent support hasn’t always been guaranteed. That’s where GetREAL comes in, but the real story is what our members build once they’re here.

GetREAL, a program of the Fort Smith Children’s Shelter, supports young adults ages 18–21 that are aging out of foster care. It provides housing, resources, and guidance. But what define the program are the community and the young adults who show up and put in the work. This kind of progress doesn’t come easily. It’s earned through hard work and consistency.

Every day, GetREAL members are showing up for themselves. They are

studying for their GED after long days of work, learning to manage their finances, navigating job applications, and building routines that set them up for long-term success. They are learning how to cook, how to drive, how to advocate for themselves, and how to keep going, even when it’s difficult. And they do it together.

That sense of community creates something powerful. It turns shared spaces into support systems. It builds accountability, encouragement, and trust. It creates an environment where young adults don’t just have a place to stay; they have people who believe in them and peers who are working just as hard alongside them.

We see it in the milestones our members reach. A GED earned. A first job secured. A savings account started. A birthday celebrated. A first apartment leased.

Each of these vital moments represents effort, resilience, and growth.

At GetREAL, we don’t expect that independence to happen overnight. It’s built step by step. And our members are the ones doing the building.

What makes this program so impactful isn’t just the services provided. It’s the combination of opportunity and effort, of support meeting sheer determination. When young adults are given the chance to grow in a stable, encouraging environment, they turn that opportunity into progress.

At the GetREAL program of the Fort Smith Children’s Shelter, that’s exactly what’s happening. Every day, foster youth are putting in the work, building their futures, and proving what’s possible when they are supported and when they believe in themselves.

If you’d like to be part of what’s happening at GetREAL, whether through mentorship, partnership, or support, you can learn more at getrealu.org or email jensen@fsces.org.

GOODS THE

Our May finds showcase items made for celebrating, gathering, and enjoying the season. From meaningful gifts to effortless style and ready-to-pour favorites, these finds capture the spirit of early summer.

1. RADIANT DETAILS Designed to shine, whether you’re celebrating someone or treating yourself. JOHN MAYS JEWELERS

2. SIP IN STYLE Easy, elevated spirits for patio pours and celebratory toasts. IN GOOD SPIRITS

3. EFFORTLESS STYLE Chic accessories bring a fresh, polished touch to your everyday style. BLACK BISON

SOAK & UNWIND Luxurious home, bath and body essentials turn routines into moments of calm. COLQUITT BATH CO.

5. POUR & ENJOY Bar essentials perfect for gathering, gifting, or savoring the season. SODIE’S WINE & SPIRITS

Building Independence, One Step at a Time

For many families, the transition from high school to adulthood can feel uncertain, especially for young adults on the autism spectrum. While early intervention services may be frequently available, support can often taper off just as independence becomes most important. In the River Valley, Spectrum Independence Living, known as SpIndL, is working to change that.

Based in Fort Smith, Arkansas, SpIndL is a nonprofit dedicated to helping neurodivergent young adults ages eighteen to thirty build the skills, confidence, and support systems needed to live independently. The organization was founded on the belief that every individual deserves the opportunity to thrive, with access to practical guidance and meaningful community connection.

At the heart of SpIndL’s approach is their focus on real-life application. Participants are not only learning essential life skills—they are practicing them in ways that translate directly to everyday living. From managing personal routines and preparing meals to budgeting finances and navigating responsibilities at home, the goal is to build confidence through experience.

Employment is another key component of the SpIndL program. Participants are introduced to job readiness skills such as résumé building, interview preparation, and workplace communication, while also exploring potential career paths. With support and coaching, many begin to take meaningful steps toward employment and long-term stability.

SpIndL’s work is built around four core areas which include life skills coaching, social opportunities, and supported employment and housing. Whether participants are learning how to live independently or with roommates, or building friendships through structured social activities, each pillar is designed to support growth in a way that feels both practical and attainable.

Programs are offered in small group settings, which allow for personalized support and stronger connections among participants. Through six-week cycles, individuals engage in consistent, hands-on learning, attending classes each week that gradually advance to applying skills in real community environments. This type of approach helps bridge the gap between learning a skill and confidently using it in everyday life.

Beyond skill-building, SpIndL fosters something that is equally as important: connection. For many participants, the program creates opportunities to build friendships, strengthen communication skills, and develop a sense of belonging within the community.

As the organization continues to grow, so does its impact across the River Valley. Through community partnerships, monthly social opportunities, fundraising efforts, and expanding programs, SpIndL is increasing access to services that meet a critical need for families navigating the transition into adulthood. Its greatest needs now are financial support and donated professional services to help sustain and grow that work. SpIndL’s mission is simple but powerful: to empower young adults to live with independence, dignity, and confidence while making that support accessible to those who need it most.

WAYS TO GET INVOLVED

Support their annual spring fundraising event.

Partner as a mentor or community resource.

Help create employment or skill-building opportunities.

Share their mission with families who may benefit.

Sponsor a student.

THE MIGRAINE SHIFT: WHY

YOUR HEADACHES ARE CHANGING

WHY MIGRAINES CAN EVOLVE OVER TIME, WHAT YOUR SYMPTOMS ARE TRYING TO TELL YOU, AND WHEN IT’S TIME TO PAY CLOSER ATTENTION.

FFor many people, migraines become familiar. They follow a pattern—perhaps a warning sign, a wave of pain, and eventually, relief. But for others, something changes. The symptoms shift. The frequency increases. New experiences, like visual disturbances or difficulty finding words, begin to appear. And suddenly, what once felt predictable no longer does. This is what many physicians refer to as a “migraine shift,” and it’s more common than people realize.

Migraines are not static. They are neurological events influenced by a combination of internal and external factors, including hormones, stress, environment, and overall health. Over time, those influences can change, and when they do, migraines often change with them. For some, that may mean more frequent headaches. For others, it can look like entirely new symptoms.

MIGRAINE WITH AURA

One of the most noticeable changes people report is the onset of migraine with aura. Aura can include visual disturbances such as zigzag lines, flashing lights, or blind spots. Others may experience sensory changes including ringing in the ears, tingling or numbness in the extremities, and in some cases, temporary difficulty with speech or word retrieval. These symptoms can be unsettling, especially for those who have never experienced them before.

While aura is a well-documented part of migraine for many individuals, its sudden appearance later in life, or a change in how it presents, can feel alarming. In most cases, it remains within the spectrum of migraine. Still, it serves as a reminder that migraines are rooted in brain activity, not just pain.

WHY MIGRAINES CHANGE OVER TIME

Hormonal fluctuations are one of the most significant contributors to changing migraine patterns, particularly for women. Shifts during perimenopause, menopause, or periods of increased stress can alter both the frequency and intensity of migraines. Sleep disruptions, dietary changes, and dehydration can further lower the body’s threshold, making it easier for migraines to occur in clusters or back-to-back episodes.

Environmental factors also play a role. Seasonal transitions, especially in the spring, can bring rapid changes in barometric pressure, increased allergens, and longer daylight hours. Each of these can act as a trigger, and when combined, they can create the conditions for migraines to linger or repeat over several days.

WHEN MIGRAINES LINGER

After a migraine, many people expect to feel immediately back to normal. In reality, the brain often moves through a recovery phase, sometimes referred to as the postdrome. During this time, individuals may feel foggy, fatigued, or slightly “off,” even after the pain has subsided. Sensitivity to light can linger, along with a dull pressure in the head, neck, or upper back. Some people also experience fatigue, mild nausea or general body aches, making it difficult to fully return to normal routines right away.

If another trigger occurs during this sensitive window, it can lead to another migraine before the system has fully reset. This is one reason migraines can sometimes appear to last for days, even when the most intense pain comes and goes.

MANAGING THE SHIFT

Understanding this cycle can help reduce frustration and guide better management. Early intervention remains one of the most effective tools. Taking prescribed medication at the first sign of symptoms, especially during the aura phase, can often reduce both severity and duration.

Consistent routines around sleep, hydration, and nutrition also play a key role in stabilizing the body’s response. Small

adjustments, such as managing screen exposure, maintaining regular meals, and recognizing early warning signs, can make a meaningful difference over time.

WHEN TO PAY CLOSER ATTENTION

While migraines can evolve, certain changes should not be ignored. New neurological symptoms, such as difficulty speaking, weakness, or vision changes that differ from past experiences, should always be discussed with a healthcare provider. Similarly, migraines that become more frequent, more intense, or resistant to usual treatments may require adjustments to a care plan.

For many, the most reassuring takeaway is this: a change in migraines does not necessarily mean something is wrong, but it does mean something is different. And understanding that difference is the first step toward regaining control.

WHEN TO TALK WITH YOUR DOCTOR

YOUR MIGRAINES SUDDENLY CHANGE IN FREQUENCY OR INTENSITY.

YOU EXPERIENCE NEW SYMPTOMS SUCH AS VISUAL DISTURBANCES OR SPEECH DIFFICULTY.

YOUR USUAL MEDICATION NO LONGER WORKS AS EFFECTIVELY.

MIGRAINES LAST SEVERAL DAYS OR OCCUR BACK-TO-BACK.

YOU EXPERIENCE NUMBNESS, WEAKNESS, OR CONFUSION.

RECOVERY FEELS LONGER OR MORE DISRUPTIVE THAN USUAL.

Your healthcare provider can evaluate changes, review treatment options, and ensure symptoms are consistent with migraine patterns. This article is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any medical condition. It does not constitute medical advice. Individual health decisions should be made in consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. If you experience a severe headache, especially one described as the worst headache of your life, or a headache with new neurological symptoms, seek immediate medical care.

The Good Stuff

Sometimes the most meaningful legacies aren’t measured in titles or built in boardrooms—they’re grown quietly, one seed, one child, one moment at a time.

words DWAIN HEBDA

images courtesy ROD MILLER AND FORT SMITH BOYS AND GIRLS CLUBS

The dictionary defines “legacy” as something handed down from one person, one generation or one civilization to another. By its strictest definition a legacy involves property or money but as Rod Miller has been demonstrating over the majority of his life, it can mean something far more valuable.

A serial volunteer, Rod has invested decades of his time and expertise in the youth of Fort Smith, Arkansas. Starting as a volunteer coach for his kids’ basketball teams, he’s always delighted in helping young people get a good start on their dreams, develop self-confidence and just know someone is in their corner.

“It's been very rewarding, you know?” he says. “I'll be seventy in two months and these kids, they keep you young. They keep you going. It's just amazing what they can do, you know? I just try to just help guide 'em along.”

Most recently, Rod’s help has come in the form of a pastime not often found among today's youth. A lifelong gardener, Rod is the city’s version of Johnny Appleseed and the engine of youth gardening programs at Fort Smith Boys and Girls Clubs and in the public school system.

“I've always had a garden, ever since I was a kid,” Rod says. “In fact, my grandpa, he had a big old truck garden or whatever they call 'em, down in Mulberry. And man, I remember as a kid, this is a funny story, being ten, eleven years old and looking out through the pasture and all you see is tomato plants. You know how most kids had snowball fights? We had rotten tomato fights.”

Following a stint in the United States Navy, Rod worked for a Chef Boyardee plant up north. When the facility closed, he cast his eyes southward. “I came down to Fort Smith to visit my grandma,” he says. “She told me to go to the unemployment office and put in for a job at Trane, and I did. Lo and behold, I got me a job. That was 1978, I believe, and I stayed there for thirty, thirty-five years.”

Wherever he called home, Rod gardened, both for relaxation and to stretch a grocery dollar. “I always tried to make a salsa garden,” he says. “Bell peppers, jalapeños, onions and tomatoes and maybe some cilantro. You put down fifty, sixty tomato plants, you better learn to do something with it.”

The idea for incorporating gardening into Boys and Girls Clubs programming goes back nearly a decade to Jerry Glidewell, former executive director, who served the organization for forty-three years

before retiring in 2022. However, it was on a smaller scale and Rod envisioned something much larger when he approached Jerry’s successor and current CEO, Beth Presley.

“Jerry wanted all the Boys and Girls Clubs to have little gardens and they had, like a little raised bed,” Rod says. “It didn't take me long to want to go bigger than that; for example, we had a couple tomato plants, but we had one ripe tomato, and we had like ten, twelve kids. I was thinking, ‘How are we gonna split this one tomato with twelve kids?’

“So, I said, ‘Beth, can we have a garden?’ She said, ok, and we got our piece of ground. We started with a solid tarp, we put it down, and while we're waiting to kill all the weed seeds and the grass, we

took ten boxes Walmart gave us, we filled them full of dirt, and then we planted potatoes in these boxes.

“So, as the potatoes are growing out of the boxes, the rain would come, the boxes are splitting. Me and the kids, we got some string and we’re out there tying these boxes back up. That was our first garden out here,” Rod recalls with a laugh.

From a handful of rain-soaked boxes sprouting potatoes, the gardening space has grown to include three plats measuring forty feet by fifty feet; a hoop house that’s thirty feet by sixty feet and a greenhouse on top of that. Much of that growth was made possible through a USDA Farm to School grant, which helped fund the endeavor, while also opening the door for local school partnerships. It is enough to take Rod aback, despite having been there every step of the way.

“Just to see all this, I mean, this is worth the price of admission just to come and look at it,” he says. “Sometimes I take pictures on my phone, and I go back to the pictures with the cardboard boxes, you know, and just look at where we're at. I'm telling you, it's just amazing.”

The project didn’t escape the attention of other institutions in Fort Smith and beyond. Support began to grow organically— donations of blackberry plants from the University of Arkansas, fruit trees from Sutherlands. Arkansas Oklahoma Gas Corporation employees have contributed volunteer hours, alongside support from partners including OG&E, Cox, and ABB, all of whom have helped strengthen the program.

The success of the Boys and Girls Clubs projects also caught the eye of local school officials who asked Rod about getting their own gardening programs off the ground. He agreed and now raised beds at Beard Elementary and Cavanaugh Elementary are active thanks to Rod and his cadre of pintsized helpers.

“They send a bunch of kids out there and we plant and weed, and they go out and water,” he says. “We had green beans and radishes and cucumbers; broccoli, baby bok choy. We had a little bit of everything in there.” The program continues to grow through a community garden club that meets Saturdays

from 9 a.m. to noon at the Evans Club, welcoming members who want to get involved and learn alongside the kids.

Rod says for as much as the kids are learning in gardening skills and soil fortification and even in tasting the produce that they grow and get to take home, the real payoff is in the relationships he sees blossom right alongside the plants.

“We just let them kind of go do their thing a little bit,” he says. “Some of these kids out here, by having to get together and work in the garden, they make friendships. I mean, that's impressive, just to see 'em come and talk to each other. I mean, they might have met their friends for life.”

It doesn’t take more than a minute or two of conversation to get a sense of how intensely Rod believes in the power of plants to change lives and open new worlds for youngsters. Though retired, he stays plenty busy with errands, from picking up mulch and other soil fortification to how he goes out of his way to include the most kids he can in the activity. Though in the late season of his own life, he’s energized by every new planting season and all that is to follow as the seedlings — both of the vegetable and human variety — take root and flourish.

“People ask me why I do this, and you gotta have a passion for it, to take a seed and plant it, put it in some dirt and watch it grow,” he says. “But let me tell you something else; in this garden over here, the kids put down their phones for two hours, and they socialize and I get 'em working together. One time I told them they were going to run a drip line and when they finished, they came and got me and said, ‘Hey, let’s turn on the water and test it.’ Lo and behold, they did it!

“I'm telling you, this garden over here is better than what I ever expected. Everybody in the community wants to help. People always say it's a lot of work, but you know what, really, it's not a lot of work. This is the good stuff, you know? I always say, this is the good stuff.”

Volunteer or donate to support the garden! Visit FSBGC.org, or contact Beth Presley at bpresley@fsbgc.org, or 479.782.7093.

Advanced Eye Care with a Personal Touch

The Return of the Carnall Kids

When school ends for the 2025/2026 session, Carnall Elementary will close permanently. The decision to shutter the school was made due to declining enrollment and underutilized buildings. Spradling Elementary will also close. The affected students will attend other Fort Smith schools in the fall, but they will carry their memories for the rest of their lives. The following story about a group of former Carnall students shows how carefully we carry the days of our childhood.

Carnall Elementary, on Tulsa Street in Fort Smith, Arkansas, hadn’t been open long when Mary Hamilton (now-McCain) started first grade. School was a new adventure, and even now, at 68, the memories of those early years are among her sweetest.

“It was a different time,” Mary says. “The dads worked. The moms stayed home. We’d walk to school with our friends and walk home with them. We’d change into our play clothes and be right back outside again.”

Before starting first grade, Mary's only playmates were her siblings. Her parents, Ralph and Lena Hamilton, welcomed nine children before the family was complete. The boys shared a bedroom, and the girls shared another. “There were bunkbeds in every corner,” Mary says.

The family had chickens, cows, and a horse named Lady. There was always a family dog in the picture. One year, all nine kids played baseball or softball, a fact that landed them in the local newspaper. They were good, too. One of Mary’s older brothers, Jim, attended Ouachita Baptist University on baseball and basketball scholarships.

For a tight-knit family like the Hamiltons, there was little need for the outside world. It wasn’t until Mary attended elementary school that she had playmates who weren’t kin. “I always called the kids at Carnall my first friends,” she says.

Mary played baseball and tetherball with her classmates, learned the history of Arkansas, and attended birthday parties, including one in sixth grade, where the highlight of the festivities was a game of spin the bottle. Classmates gave each other small trinkets to show affection, such as the plastic, animal-shaped charms they’d saved from soft drinks bought at Beverly’s Drive-in, which was a hopping place in its day.

When sixth grade ended, many of the same students went on to attend Ramsey Junior High and Southside High School before going their separate ways. After that, there were colleges to attend, partners to marry, careers to begin. Not everyone stayed in touch.

After Mary retired from teaching kindergarten at Fairview Elementary, she decided to organize a group of her former grade school classmates. The friends she contacted were on board, and in September 2022, they had their first lunch together. Since then, they’ve created their own Facebook page where they share updates on their lives and plan their next monthly lunch meeting.

So far, the smallest group totaled 8; the largest 26. Classmates have come from near and far to reconnect. Even the group’s principal, Mr. Jimmie Daniels, now 93, and their fifth-grade teacher, Mr. Eddy Hill, now 81, attend, along with their wives. Mary laughs when she describes hearing her classmate Roger call Mr. Hill by his first name. “I almost fell out of my chair,” she says. “Roger explained that he’d played golf with him for years.

“Another classmate and friend named Phillip came in once, and Mr. Hill was sitting there. Mr. Hill said, ‘There’s trouble!’ He said, ‘How many times did I use that paddle on you?’ and Phillip said good-naturedly, ‘At least once a day.’”

In the 1960s, paddling was still the norm.

Mary describes her younger self as a quiet, obedient rule follower. Memory, though, is mercurial, and her childhood friend, Leigh Ann, claims there was at least one exception. The two of them sneaked out one day to get burgers at the nearby Reed’s Drive-In. They ate them quickly on the walk back, fearful of being caught. It was a memory Mary had repressed until Leigh Ann brought the story up at one of their lunches.

Doug Kelley, a writer and retired pilot, now living in Texas, recalls his first time attending one of the lunches. “It was revelatory to walk into the La Huerta Mexican Restaurant on Old Greenwood Road and see a long table of friends I had not seen, some of them, in decades. The opportunity to renew dormant friendships has provided entirely new threads to the fabric of our lives. And to tell Mr. Hill, in person, how he may have inadvertently affected my entire life's work was especially satisfying.”

Mr. Hill’s influence came in a roundabout way. When Doug was in the fifth grade, he developed a temporary habit of not completing his homework. As punishment, Mr. Hill, who was only 23 at the time, would make Doug stand by the wall during recess. The school was in the flight path of the Fort Smith Municipal Airport, and with little else to do, Doug searched the sky for planes.

“So it was,” Doug says, “when asked how I became interested in flying, I always give credit to Mr. Eddy Hill, tyrant though he was,” he says, tongue in cheek, “for playing a role in the direction my life took.”

A classmate named Steve, who came to one of the lunches from his home in San Antonio, told the group about his time in the service. On the ship at night on the high seas, he’d think about his days at Carnall. Those were his fondest memories, he said. His classmates, his teachers, his principal.

“There wasn’t a dry eye in the house,” Mary says. “Even Mr. Hill was crying. It was so emotional. Who knew you could make such an impact on a person?”

Mary believes the elementary years were the most influential of their lives. There are a thousand reasons why that might be. That era allowed children to explore freely. The friends she made at Carnall roamed in and out of each other’s houses. As a bonus, they got to know their friends’ families. The kids climbed trees and played impromptu games of softball and lay on their backs considering the shapes the clouds made. Their day didn’t end until their parents called them home.

In the background of that idyllic time in South Fort Smith, the world was changing. Rock and roll grew in popularity. To the chagrin of the establishment, miniskirts, bell-bottom jeans, and men wearing long hair infiltrated the younger generation. Suddenly, there were hippies.

When Mary’s group was in first grade, the United States trembled from the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. When they were in the sixth grade, civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in Memphis. And all during their grammar school experience, grim news from the frontlines of the Vietnam War invaded every household that sat down to watch the evening news.

Children look to the adults to make sense of chaos. It’s possible that, along with good parents, the staff at Carnall Elementary did an exceptional job guiding those in their charge. Classmate Doug Kelley says it in a more poetic way. “An oak tree does not remember when it was an acorn, but it does know the ground from which it grew.”

A short while from now, the doors to Carnall Elementary will close for good. The empty hallways, the silent classrooms, the once-loud cafeteria, will have gone quiet after more than 60 years. Even so, no one can take away the students’ memories of a different time when the school was the vibrant center of their world. For some of them, like Mary’s lunch group, it is sacred ground. A forest disguised as a school that protected them as they struggled upward and allowed them to grow into such mighty oaks.

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THE POWER OF CONNECTION

Vee Webb-DeLesline believes relationships are everything—and she’s using hers to change lives.

words

DO SOUTH WITH VEE WEBB-DELESLINE images STEPHANNI MORGAN AND VEE WEBB-DELESLINE

Vee Webb-DeLesline doesn’t just serve her community—she’s woven into it. Across the River Valley, her name is tied to connection, compassion, and a steady commitment to showing up where she’s needed most.

With more than fifteen years at CASS Job Corps, Vee has dedicated her career to helping young people find direction, stability, and purpose. But her impact doesn’t stop there. From the Ozark Area Chamber of Commerce and Junior League of Fort Smith to the Lions Club and statewide workforce development efforts, she is deeply involved in the work of strengthening her community from every angle. Through her role as Ms. Elegant Southern States for FACS, she also advocates for children and families facing food insecurity, bringing awareness to challenges that often go unseen.

Originally from Missouri, Vee’s journey from New Jersey to the River Valley has been shaped by a willingness to step

into new roles and lead in spaces where her voice matters. Today, she lives in Van Buren with her husband and their goldendoodle, continuing to build relationships and open doors for others.

At the heart of it all is a belief she carries into every role: when people are given support, opportunity, and someone who truly listens, lives can change. And for Vee, that’s what service is all about.

DS: When people in the community hear your name, what do you hope they think of first, beyond your titles?

VW: I hope they think of someone who leads with compassion—someone who is service-driven, advocates for the community and underserved youth, and treats everyone with kindness.

DS: You’ve described yourself as “a connector.” What does that look like in your everyday life?

VW: I work hard at listening, which allows me to build genuine relationships. Relationships are everything, the world revolves around them. Being a connector allows me to bring awareness to concerns, advocate for others, and inspire people to reach their highest potential.

DS: When did your passion for serving others, especially young people, first take root?

VW: My passion for serving came from my mother. She showed me what service looks like through her actions— helping others and giving back to the community. In our family, serving was non-negotiable; it was simply part of who we were. She taught me that it’s important to do something that not only impacts your own life, but also improves the lives of those around you.

My passion for working with young people began during my time at the Devereux Foundation in Chester, New Jersey. I served as a direct care supervisor for female adolescents—a role my sister encouraged me to pursue. That experience was transformative and helped shape both my purpose and my commitment to supporting underserved youth.

DS: What do you wish more people in our community understood about Job Corps and the students you serve?

VW: I wish more people understood that Job Corps is truly one of the best-kept secrets. Our students are not “bad kids.” They are young adults, ages 16 to 24, who may not have had the same opportunities as others. Through Job Corps, they can earn a trade, complete their education, obtain a driver’s license, and gain the tools they need to succeed. It truly has the power to transform lives.

DS: Can you share a moment when you saw a student truly turn a corner?

VW: I’m blessed to witness change happen right before my eyes. This work is incredibly rewarding. One student I’m especially proud of is Jasmine Bullock. She faced many challenges, but during her time at CASS, she rebuilt her life. She earned her GED, obtained her driver’s license, and completed her trade.

What stands out most is her resilience. She became sober, gained confidence, and learned to use her strength to rise above obstacles. Today, she lives in Hot Springs and works at the sheriff’s department. She is a true testament to the lifechanging power of Job Corps.

DS: What does success look like for your students beyond graduation or job placement?

VW: Success means students leave better than when they arrived. It means they return to their communities as contributors—giving back, supporting others, and sustaining themselves with the skills and confidence they’ve gained.

DS: What are some of the biggest barriers they face, and how do you help them push through?

VW: Some of the biggest barriers students face after leaving Job Corps include finding adequate housing, securing reliable transportation, and adjusting to independence. Partnering with community leaders, agencies, and outside resources is essential during that transition. It truly takes a joint effort from staff and partners working together to support each student’s success.

DS: As Ms. Elegant Southern States for FACS, what has that platform allowed you to see, and why is this work so important to you?

VW: The FACS platform aligns perfectly with my passion for service and my commitment to supporting underserved individuals. I was drawn to this organization because of its transparency and its deep dedication to fighting childhood hunger.

Serving as Ms. Elegant Southern States FACS has given me the opportunity to advocate for and raise awareness about childhood hunger right here in Arkansas. FACS believes no child should ever go hungry, and I share that belief.

What many people don’t realize is the number of barriers families face when trying to access basic needs like nutritious food, heat, and water. These are everyday struggles for far too many families. I’ve worked to educate the public, help families access resources, and use my voice wherever I can to bring awareness to this issue.

DS: What keeps you grounded when the work feels heavy?

VW: My faith and my family keep me grounded when days are tough.

DS: Who has poured into you along the way, and how has that shaped how you lead?

VW: I’ve been fortunate to have so many people pour into me. My husband and family are my biggest supporters. Professionally, I’ve been influenced by incredible leaders like Mayor George McGill, whose guidance and leadership I deeply respect, and Cindy Kopack, who encouraged women to step into leadership roles. Pat Powell challenged me to grow and try new things, and my twin sister has supported and pushed me in every season of life.

Relationships are everything, the world revolves around them.

DS: You’re involved in so many areas—what drives you to keep saying yes?

VW: I stay involved because I truly believe we were put on this earth to serve. Saying yes comes naturally when I know my time and effort can make a difference.

DS: How would you describe your leadership style, in human terms, not business ones?

VW: I would describe my leadership style as that of a builder. I believe in involving people in the process, because when people are given the opportunity to contribute, good things happen—for organizations, families, and communities. Leadership is about relationships, and great leaders focus on meeting the needs of the people they serve.

Leadership Crawford County and Franklin County Leadership also played pivotal roles in my professional growth, helping shape the leader I am today. Organizations like the Junior League of Fort Smith have further strengthened that foundation by developing confident, capable women leaders in our community.

I’m also incredibly grateful for my current supervisor, Larry Flynn, whose support, guidance, and example of true servant leadership continue to influence how I lead and show up for others. All these people and experiences have shaped how I lead, and how I pour back into others.

DS: What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you?

VW: People might be surprised to know that I’m really more of a behind-the-scenes person. I learned early on that you don’t have to be in the spotlight to make things happen.

DS: If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?

VW: I would tell her not to second-guess herself, just go for it.

DS: When you think about your impact, what do you hope lasts?

VW: I hope my impact continues by inspiring others to step up, get involved, and carry the work forward.

DS: At the end of the day, what matters most to you?

VW: My family, my faith, and standing up for what is right. I’m committed to staying true to my values and never shrinking back for anyone.

Vee doesn’t measure success by titles or recognition, but by the lives that are changed along the way. In every role she holds and every connection she builds, there is a quiet but steady purpose—to serve, to uplift, and to create opportunity where it’s needed most. In a community that thrives on people showing up for one another, Vee is a reminder of what’s possible when compassion leads and service becomes a way of life. And for those who cross her path, her impact doesn’t just stay with them, it carries forward.

Vee’s Favorite Things

GO-TO COMFORT FOOD: Chocolate & ice cream.

FAVORITE LOCAL RESTAURANT: Benson’s Grill & Chili’s.

FAVORITE MUSIC : Blues.

FAVORITE WAY TO UNWIND : Walks & yoga.

FAVORITE WAY TO RECHARGE: A spa day.

FAVORITE SOURCE OF JOY: Family.

FAVORITE SCRIPTURE: Philippians 4:13 — I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

FAVORITE SPLURGE: Shoes—and more shoes!

FAVORITE THING ABOUT THE RIVER VALLEY: The people and the food.

FUN FACT:

I eat a small bowl of ice cream almost every night before bed!

In the Community

Vee is active across multiple boards and organizations including Arkansas Workforce Development, Board of Directors Ozark Area Chamber of Commerce, CASS Job Corps Center, Colley Care House, Ms. Elegant Southern States, FACS (Fight Against Childhood Starvation), Mrs. Franklin County, Rotary Club, Junior League of Fort Smith, and Lions Club of Fort Smith.

Treasures of the Heart

A FAMILY STORY YEARS IN THE MAKING

words DO SOUTH // images courtesy BILL AND BARBIE REBSAMEN

THERE’S SOMETHING ABOUT walking into Treasures at Century Plaza that feels unique from the start. Maybe it’s the sense of discovery tucked into every booth, or the way each aisle invites you to slow down and look a little closer. It’s not just a place to shop—it’s a place to wander, to remember, and sometimes to find something you didn’t even know you were looking for.

For Bill and Barbie Rebsamen, that feeling is exactly the point. Now, as the new owners of Treasures at Century Plaza, they’re not just stepping into a business—they’re continuing something that has been part of their lives for years.

Barbie has been a vendor at Treasures for nearly eighteen years, and long before that, her mother was part of the store as both a vendor and a familiar face behind the counter. What started

as a place to sell and shop gradually became something much more personal, something rooted in time spent together. “This place really did become like a second home,” Barbie says. “I could come up here, work my booth, visit with my mom, and just spend time in a place I loved.”

Over time, that connection only deepened, especially with the store’s previous owners, Rex and Darlene Montgomery, who built Treasures into what it is today. Somewhere along the way, a simple comment from Darlene stayed with Barbie longer than either of them likely expected.

“She told us that if they ever sold, she thought we should buy it,” Barbie says. “At the time, it just seemed like something kind to say, but it planted the seed. I’ve been praying and waiting patiently ever since.”

When the opportunity finally came, the decision didn’t feel complicated. It felt clear. “Purchasing Treasures at Century Plaza was one of those rare, no-hesitation, no-doubt decisions,” she says. “We didn’t have to overthink it. We just knew.”

Stepping into ownership has been, in many ways, a natural transition. With guidance from Rex Montgomery, whose vision shaped the business for more than two decades, Bill and Barbie have been able to carry forward what was already working while gradually making the space their own. They’re quick to credit not only that foundation, but also the people who stayed through the transition and helped them grow into their new roles.

At the center of it all is family. The store isn’t simply operated by Bill and Barbie—it’s shared across generations, each person playing a part in the day-to-day rhythm of the business. Balancing ownership with full-time careers, they rely on a strong support system—something they’re quick to credit for making it all possible.

“Bill and I both have full-time jobs outside of Treasures, so we truly couldn’t do this without them,” Barbie says. “This is definitely a family business. My mom still works the counter and is a wealth of knowledge, my dad has done everything from fixing leaks to taking out the trash, and our daughter helps out behind the counter as well. Even our grandkids pitch in. Our

family have been there every step of the way, right along with the incredible staff that takes care of the day-to-day and have become like family”

That sense of involvement gives Treasures something you can’t quite manufacture. It’s not just the merchandise or the layout—it’s the feeling that the space is lived in, cared for, and constantly in motion. With more than 130 vendor booths, the store is filled with an ever-changing mix of items, each one reflecting the personality and passion of the person behind it. Vendors spend hours sourcing, traveling, and searching for pieces that are not only unique but meaningful. In many cases, the story behind an item is just as important as the item itself. For customers, that means every visit is a little different.

“We always tell people to expect the unexpected,” Barbie says. Bill adds, “You might come in looking for one thing and leave with something completely different—or something you didn’t even know you needed.”

Since taking ownership, Bill and Barbie have focused on enhancing the space without changing what people already love about it. Updates have been thoughtful rather than dramatic, including cosmetic improvements throughout the mall and uncovering features that had gone unused for years. One of those discoveries was a hidden bathroom, now fully restored and functional. Another favorite addition is a newly

created book room, filled with thousands of titles, comfortable seating, and complimentary coffee. It’s a space designed to invite people to slow down, settle in, and stay awhile.

“We wanted it to feel like a place where you could just enjoy being,” Barbie says. “Somewhere you don’t feel rushed, where you can take your time and really look around.”

That atmosphere—relaxed, welcoming, and just a little nostalgic—is what often turns a quick stop into something more meaningful. Many customers arrive looking for something specific, but what they find is often tied to memory.

“We see it all the time,” she says. “Someone will pick something up and say, ‘My grandmother had one just like this,’ or ‘This reminds me of when I was growing up.’ It becomes more than just buying something—it’s about remembering.”

Sometimes, the stories that unfold inside Treasures take on a life of their own. Not long ago, Barbie came across a schoolbook from around 1910 in the store’s lost and found. When she opened it, she recognized Bill’s family name—Rebsamen— written inside, along with the name Paul. “We eventually tracked down Paul Rebsamen’s grandson in Little Rock and were able to send the book to him. That was really special,” Barbie says.

Looking ahead, Bill and Barbie are focused on steady, thoughtful growth. With a waiting list for vendor booths, they’re exploring ways to expand within their existing space while continuing to introduce new ideas and offerings. At the same time, their commitment to the local community remains central to everything they do.

“We’re proud to be part of Fort Smith,” Barbie says. “There are so many great locally owned businesses here, and we love being one of the places where people can come shop small and find something unique.”

For a couple who were both born and raised in Fort Smith, and who will celebrate thirty-nine years of marriage this May, that connection to the community runs deep. It’s woven into their story, their relationships, and now, into the future they’re building together. And while there’s still work ahead, there’s also a clear picture of what that future might look like.

“My dream is that one day I can retire from nursing and just be here,” Barbie says. “I picture my mom and daughter behind the counter, my dad sitting in the book room reading a Louis L’Amour, and all of us just being together. That would be perfect.”

It’s a simple vision, but one that captures everything Treasures at Century Plaza has become—a place built on years of memories, shaped by the people who have been part of it, and carried forward by a family ready to continue the story.

Treasures at Century Plaza is located at 3702 Century Drive in Fort Smith, Arkansas, and is open 10a-5:30p Monday-Saturday and 1-5p on Sunday.

SAVOR SUMMER with Natural Gas Cooking

words and image ARKANSAS OKLAHOMA GAS

Warmer days and longer evenings are finally here, and families across the region are making the most of Arkansas’s beautiful May weather. Fun backyard barbecues, graduation celebrations, holiday weekends, and relaxing weeknight dinners are filling the calendar, bringing people together around the table. With the help of Arkansas Oklahoma Gas (AOG), natural gas appliances can make moments even better by delivering performance, convenience, and reliability you can count on all summer long.

In the kitchen, natural gas delivers precision you can see and control instantly. With a gas cooktop, heat is immediate and adjustable, allowing you to quickly boil water for corn on the cob, effortlessly sear a steak, or gently simmer your favorite homemade barbecue sauce. Plus, natural gas provides consistent heat and responsive temperature control, helping you cook

with confidence for quick family dinners or a house full of guests.

When it’s time to take dinner outdoors, natural gas grills make backyard celebrations easier than ever. With a direct connection to your home’s natural gas line, there’s no need to worry about running out of propane in the middle of cooking. Many natural gas grills can reach temperatures up to 700 degrees and maintain steady, high heat, while evenly distributing warmth across the cooking surface for steadfast results. Multiple burner controls also allow you to cook different foods at different heating levels, giving you greater flexibility whether you’re grilling burgers, vegetables, or ribs.

Beyond performance, natural gas appliances can offer long-term value. Many models are energy efficient, dependable, and built to handle everything from everyday meals to

large summer gatherings. Delivered directly to your home, natural gas provides a consistent, reliable energy source without the hassle of refueling or storage. If you’re upgrading your kitchen, installing a natural gas grill, or exploring other outdoor living options, natural gas can be a trusted, versatile energy choice for your home.

AOG is proud to serve families and communities across the River Valley with reliable natural gas service you can trust. Visit aogc.com to learn more about bringing the benefits of natural gas to your home this summer.

Grilled Tacos Shrimp

Ingredients

(makes 6-8 tacos)

for the shrimp

° 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined

° 2 Tbsp. olive oil

° 1 tsp. chili powder

° ½ tsp. smoked paprika

° ½ tsp. garlic powder

° juice of 1 lime

° salt and pepper, to taste

for the slaw

° 2 cups tri-color coleslaw

° 2 green onions, chopped

° ¼ cup cilantro, chopped

° 2 Tbsp. mayonnaise

° 2 Tbsp. lemon juice

° 2 Tbsp. lime juice

° 1 tsp. honey

° salt and pepper, to taste

for serving

° small tortillas (corn or flour)

° avocado, sliced

° lime wedges (garnish)

Method

In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, spices, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Marinate for 10–15 minutes. Combine all slaw ingredients in a separate bowl and mix until evenly coated.

Skewer shrimp. Grill shrimp over medium-high direct heat for 2–3 minutes per side, until bright pink and lightly charred. Warm the tortillas, then layer with slaw, shrimp, and avocado slices. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lime and additional cilantro.

Tip: Serve with our delicious pineapple jalapeño margaritas, on page 40.

Pineapple Jalapeño Margaritas

Ingredients

(serves 4)

° 8 oz. tequila, silver or reposado

° 8 oz. pineapple juice, fresh is best

° 4 oz. lime juice, fresh

° 2 oz. Cointreau

° 1–2 jalapeños, thinly sliced

° 1.5 - 2 oz. agave syrup

° margarita salt, for rim

° pineapple + jalepeño, garnish

Method

Rim four glasses with lime juice and dip in margarita salt, if preferred. In a pitcher gently muddle the jalapeño slices. Add tequila, pineapple juice, lime juice, Cointreau, and agave. Fill with ice and stir well. Strain into prepared glasses over fresh ice and garnish with a pineapple wedge and jalapeño.

Tip: For a spicier kick, let the jalapeño slices sit in the mixture a few extra minutes before serving.

FOUR DESTINATIONS TO EXPERIENCE FULLY TAKE ME THERE

words DO SOUTH

Temperatures are trending upward, and travel is back on the radar. As spring gives way to summer, the urge to get away grows stronger—some are drawn to long-haul plans and carefully mapped itineraries, while others are looking for something refreshing, manageable, and within reach. A change of scenery doesn’t always require extended time off or complicated logistics; sometimes, it’s as simple as a well-planned weekend or a short drive that leads to something new.

Close-to-home and regional destinations offer that balance. They make it possible to step away from routine, enjoy the season, and recharge without overcommitting your calendar or your budget. Whether it’s time outdoors, a vibrant downtown, or a more active experience, the right destination can feel like a true escape without requiring far-away travel.

This month, we’re highlighting four fun destinations that make summer travel feel easy and worthwhile. Starting close to home and expanding just beyond, each offers a different way to explore, proving that sometimes the best trips are the ones that are right in front of you.

BUFFALO NATIONAL RIVER, ARKANSAS

IDEAL STAY: 2–4 days

BEST TIME TO GO: April–June and September–October

WHY IT WORKS: Scenic beauty, hiking, floating, wildlife

PERFECT FOR:

Couples, families, outdoor enthusiasts, weekend getaways

Experience the kind of natural beauty that feels both familiar and quietly impressive. Towering limestone bluffs, winding riverbanks, and dense stretches of forest create a landscape that shifts with the light and the season, making even a short visit feel immersive. In late spring and early summer, the river is calling, with mild temperatures and conditions that are perfect for hiking and time spent on the water.

Time slows down in nature. Take a morning stroll down a trail—Lost Valley is a favorite for its waterfalls and caves—then take to the river for a float in the afternoon, or kick back and relax along the shoreline. Wildlife sightings, including elk in the Ponca area, add a layer of excitement.

The Buffalo appeals to those looking to disconnect without going far. It offers just enough activity to stay engaged, balanced with the kind of stillness that makes a trip feel restorative rather than rushed.

NORTHWEST ARKANSAS

IDEAL STAY: 2–3 days

BEST TIME TO GO: March–June and September–November

WHY IT WORKS:

Arts, dining, biking, walkable downtowns

PERFECT FOR: Couples, friend trips, food lovers, active travelers

Anchored by Bentonville and Fayetteville, the region blends outdoor access with a growing arts and culinary scene, creating an approachable and vibrant destination. It’s the kind of place where a weekend can shift easily between activity and downtime without ever feeling overly planned.

Begin the day with coffee on a downtown square before heading out for a walk or an adventurous bike ride on one of the area’s many trails or bikeways. Cultural stops, like Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art and the Momentary, add depth, while local shops and galleries invite exploration. Experiences like Topgolf and a steady lineup of outdoor concerts and community events bring an added layer of energy.

Northwest Arkansas delivers a mix of movement, culture, and comfort that makes even a short stay feel full, while still leaving room to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

HOCHATOWN & BROKEN BOW, OKLAHOMA

IDEAL STAY: 2–3 days

BEST TIME TO GO: April–June and September–November

WHY IT WORKS: Cabins, lake days, dining, laid-back pace

PERFECT FOR:

Couples, families, group trips, weekend escapes

Tucked into the pine forests of southeastern Oklahoma, this area is known for its cabins, clear water, and an atmosphere that encourages you to slow down. It’s a destination where the setting does most of the work, creating a simple and restorative experience.

Start the morning with coffee on the porch or a leisurely trail walk. For water lovers, days can be spent on Broken Bow Lake—boating, paddleboarding, or swimming—or inside Beavers Bend State Park, where trails and river views are easy to access. For those looking for more to do, Hochatown adds energy with ziplining, trail rides, a petting zoo, mini golf, and local wineries, alongside its restaurants and breweries.

Broken Bow appeals to those looking to step away from routine without sacrificing comfort. It strikes a balance between nature and activity, making for a getaway that feels easy and memorable from start to finish.

OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA

IDEAL STAY:  2–3 days

BEST TIME TO GO: April–June and September–October

WHY IT WORKS: Adventure, sports, entertainment, variety

PERFECT FOR: Families, friend groups, active travelers, weekend trips

Oklahoma City offers a blend of energy and accessibility that's easy and unexpectedly engaging. While destinations like Riversport Rapids bring a strong sense of adventure, the city’s broader mix of entertainment, sports, and walkable districts creates a wellrounded experience that extends beyond a single attraction.

Adventure seekers can enjoy whitewater rafting, zip lines and kayaking, while those looking to stay on the ground can explore Bricktown, where restaurants, museums, shops, and canalside paths offer a more relaxed rhythm.

Seasonal events and live sports— including Oklahoma City Comets games and the Oklahoma City Thunder, with ties to Fort Smith athletes—add another layer, giving visitors an easy way to connect with the city’s energy.

CAMP

Summer Fun Summer Fun

at the ACHE Research Institute

Health & Wellness Center

Get ready for a summer full of creativity, learning, and fun at our RIHWC! We’re offering something for everyone, with classes like Art, Quilting, Hydroponics, Ceramics, Cooking, Coding, and more. Whether you’re looking to try something new or build on your skills, there’s a place for all ages to enjoy. Come visit us and make this summer one to remember!

What if you could create lasting memories, bring your family closer, and improve your health—all without leaving home? A swimming pool makes it possible! Instead of a pricey vacation that’s over in a flash, invest in endless fun, relaxation, and connection. Make this summer unforgettable—right in your own backyard! For over forty-eight years, Burton has helped families create their perfect retreat. Call Burton Pools & Spas today—Water for a Better Life! 7000 Chad Colley Blvd., Fort Smith 479.434.4004

Summer Adventures Come to Life at ACHE RIHWC! This summer, the Arkansas Colleges of Health Education’s (ACHE) Research Institute Health & Wellness Center (RIHWC) invites the community to learn, create, and connect through hands-on camps designed for kids. Camp experiences include activities like ceramics, composting, engineering challenges, and hydroponics, each offering something new to explore. Additional opportunities include coding, quilting, and culinary camps, where participants can build skills in sewing, technology, and cooking in a fun, engaging environment. With a variety of options for different interests, these camps are designed to spark creativity, encourage learning, and create lasting summer memories.

Summer Summer Camps Camps2026 2026

(479) 434-2020 www.csafortsmith.org

1101 Riverfront Dr., Fort Smith

479.434.2020 csafortsmith.org / icafortsmith.org

Join us this summer at the Arkansas Center for the Creative Arts! Community School of the Arts offers camps, classes, and private lessons in music, dance, acting, and more for all ages. Visit our website to view our full course catalog or call us to learn more! The Institute for the Creative Arts is a tuition-free public charter high school. ICA combines a rigorous college preparatory academic program with pre-professional training in music, theatre, dance, and more. We are a creative artsfocused school where dreams take center stage! ICA is open to all students with an Arkansas residence. We are open for enrollment! Visit our website or call us to learn more!

(479) 434-2114 www.icafortsmith.org

479.782.7093 fsbgc.org

Looking for a fun and meaningful way to keep your kids engaged this summer? Join the Fort Smith Boys & Girls Clubs for Survive the Summer Slump! From May 27 – July 31, youth will take on exciting, Survivor -inspired challenges while building academic skills, creativity, and confidence. Each 4-week session is just $40 and includes hands-on STEM projects, team competitions, book-to-screen experiences, field trips, and more! Designed to prevent summer learning loss, this program keeps kids active, learning, and having a blast. Plus, free breakfast and lunch are provided daily! Don’t let summer slow them down—help them grow, explore, and thrive. Register today at fsbgc.org and make this a summer to remember!

317 Garrison Ave., Fort Smith

479.222.6851 garrisongoodies.com

Step into a world of sweet surprises at Garrison Goodies! From nostalgic candies that bring back childhood memories to exciting new treats inspired by the latest TikTok trends, we have something to delight every sweet tooth. Our shelves are bursting with colorful gummies, decadent chocolates, fun sodas, and unique snacks you won’t find anywhere else. Looking for the perfect gift? Our custom candy baskets and party favors are guaranteed to make anyone smile. Visit us Monday–Thursday from 10 AM to 6 PM, Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 10 PM, and Sunday from 12 PM to 5 PM. Life is sweeter at Garrison Goodies — Fort Smith’s favorite candy shop!

1601 Rogers Ave, Fort Smith

479.784.2787

fsram.org

Get ready for an artistic summer at RAM’s 2026 Summer Art Camps! From July 7-26, children, teens, and adults can dive into creative fun with our camp line-up. Young artists, ages 6-8, can craft unique paper mâché hats at our Helmets & Hats Art Camp. Ages 9-12 can unleash their imaginations at our Creative Creatures Art Camp by designing fantastical beings. Older campers, ages 12-18, can explore the mysterious world of cryptids as they collaborate to create a large-scale creature. Participants ages 16+ can refine their drawing skills with artist Amy Holmes Scoggins at our Drawing 101 workshops in June and July. Fees vary. All supplies included. Don’t miss this chance to spark creativity this summer!

Looking for an easy, affordable night out with the kids this summer? King Opera House is bringing big-screen favorites to our historic venue with its $5 Movie Nights series. Held in the heart of downtown Van Buren, these family-friendly evenings combine classic charm with crowd-pleasing films like The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants, The Lego Movie, Wicked, How to Train Your Dragon , and Ratatouille For just $5 admission per person, families can enjoy a night at the movies without stretching the budget. Concessions will be available—because no movie night is complete without snacks! It’s a simple way to slow down, spend time together, and make summer memories close to home. Purchase your tickets online at kingoperahouse.ludus.com, or at the door.

Learn, Play, Grow Children’s Therapy Services is a pediatric outpatient clinic conveniently located at 311 Lexington Avenue. LPG proudly serves the River Valley and Eastern Oklahoma by providing occupational, physical, and speech therapy to children ages birth to 21. Summer is the perfect time to build skills while keeping kids engaged and having fun! Our playbased, individualized therapy sessions help children strengthen motor skills, communication, sensory processing, and social skills, without the demands of the school schedule. LPG accepts most private insurances, AR Medicaid, SoonerCare, and private pay. We are incredibly proud of our dedicated team of therapists who are passionate about helping every child learn, play, and grow! Flexible summer scheduling is now available. Contact us to get started!

Big Growth Starts with Little Hands!

Helping children from birth to 18 thrive through speech, occupational, physical, and feeding therapy.

Playful, personalized care designed to help kids reach milestones—and support families every step of the way.

Not sure if your child could benefit from therapy?

Every child develops at their own pace—but when everyday tasks feel harder than they should, a little extra support can make a big difference. Talking with a qualified therapist can help you better understand your child’s needs and next steps.

Comprehensive Pediatric Therapy Services

Speech Therapy

Clear communication. Stronger language. Better connection.

Occupational Therapy

Daily skills. Sensory support. Growing independence.

Physical Therapy

Strength, balance, and confident movement.

Feeding Therapy

Easier mealtimes. Healthier habits. Less stress.

Assessment

1501 S. Waldron Rd., # 107, Fort Smith

Little Hands at Play Therapy is helping children in our community build the skills they need to fully enjoy life, including all the fun summer has to offer. From playground adventures to swimming, sports, and family outings, their team supports children in gaining the confidence, coordination, and communication needed for everyday moments. Offering occupational, physical, speech, and feeding therapies under one roof, Little Hands takes a collaborative, personalized approach for children from birth to age 21. With a strong focus on real-life progress and family involvement, therapy extends beyond the clinic and into daily routines. Through creative, engaging sessions, Little Hands at Play Therapy empowers kids to grow, thrive, and make the most of every season.

Gear up to train with the Grizzlies! The Northside Grizzlies Boys’ Basketball team will be hosting its annual Youth Basketball Camp June 2 – 4 for athletes in grades 1st – 7th. Camp will be divided into three age divisions. Be sure to register by scanning the QR code in the camp ad. Camp will last from 8:30am to 12:00pm each day in the Grizzly Arena. The camp fee is $55 if registered before May 25, or $65 at the door; cash or checks accepted. Checks can be made out to Northside Boys Basketball and mailed to Cody Wilmath at 2301 N. B Street, Fort Smith, Arkansas, 72901. Come get better with us!

join IKE the Eagle in learning about the United States Marshals as we celebrate America’s 250th birthday!

Purchase a ticket and pick up a Jr. Marshal b ooklet from THE Information Desk

Follow the clues to uncover answers in our g alleries until you’ve completed the booklet

Bring it to the information desk to receive your JUNIOR Marshal badge and be sworn in earn your earn yourbadge! badge!

789 Riverfront Drive, Fort Smith, Arkansas 72901

789 Riverfront Dr., Fort Smith

479.242.1789 marshalsmuseum.org

The U.S. Marshals Museum is excited to welcome families and the community for a series of engaging upcoming events! Mark your calendars for Free Day on May 2nd, when visitors of all ages can explore the museum at no cost. Celebrate America 250 with interactive activities designed for everyone, highlighting the nation’s rich history. Young visitors can join our Junior Marshals Program, included with regular admission, and experience hands-on learning about the courage, service, and legacy of the U.S. Marshals. From educational exhibits to family-friendly programs, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Come discover history, have fun, and make memories at the museum. It’s the perfect place to explore, learn, and celebrate together!

5210 Grand Ave., Fort Smith

479.788.7000 uafortsmithlions.com

At UAFS, summer is more than a break—it’s a chance for kids to grow, explore, and build confidence in a fun, supportive environment. UAFS Youth Camps offer hands-on experiences for students in grades K–12, with focused programs in volleyball, basketball, and band, all led by experienced coaches, faculty, and mentors who know how to bring out the best in every child. Whether they’re sharpening skills on the court or playing alongside fellow musicians, campers leave with more than memories—they gain confidence that carries into the school year ahead. With multiple sessions, flexible options, and programs for a range of ages and skill levels, UAFS makes it easy to find the right fit for your family this summer.

Summer of A STARTS AT UAFS GROWTH

From the court to the stage, UAFS Youth Camps build skills, instill confidence, and create lasting memories.

At UAFS, summer is more than a break. It’s an opportunity.

Our Youth Camps are designed for students in grades K-12 and led by experienced coaches, faculty, and mentors who know how to challenge and encourage every camper. Whether your child is just getting started or ready to take the next step, there’s a camp built for their goals.

Camp opportunities include:

• Volleyball Camps for beginners through elite athletes

• Men’s and Women’s Basketball Camps focused on skill development and teamwork

• Music Camps in band, jazz, and rock

Camps are held on the UAFS campus in the Stubblefield Center and Breedlove Auditorium.

With multiple dates, day and overnight options, and programs for a wide range of ages, UAFS makes it easy to find the right fit for your family.

View all camps, prices, and registration details at uafs.edu/summer-youth-camps.

Find your Roar at UAFS!

2221 Pointer Trail East, Van Buren

479.474.7942

vbsd.us

Summertime = Fun in Pointer Nation! VBSD is gearing up for an exciting summer season, filled with opportunities to engage students and support families. Students can pick from a wide range of art and sports camps. Van Buren High School will also offer a low-cost ACT test prep course designed to help participants succeed on the college entrance exam. FREE breakfast and lunch will be served at a variety of convenient locations throughout the city for all youth ages 18 and under. These programs help ensure students stay learning, stay moving, and stay nourished all summer long. Follow @VBSDPointers on social media for updates and visit our District website to register for camps today!

4701 Grand Ave., Fort Smith

479.785.0152

waballet.org

Western Arkansas Ballet Academy offers classes in ballet, pointe, modern, jazz, tap, and hip hop for ages two through adult. Committed to creating a community dedicated to the fine arts through quality dance education, training, and performance in a non-competitive environment, Western Arkansas Ballet proudly presents exemplary performance opportunities every season. The coming season includes the forty-first annual production of The Nutcracker December 19 & 20, 2026 at the ArcBest Performing Arts Center in Fort Smith. Open auditions for  The Nutcracker take place on September 26, 2026. Summer dance camp and workshop registration is open now and the 2026-2027 Academy registration opens June 15, 2026. Visit waballet.org for more information.

In Arkansas, family time doesn’t have to be planned down to the minute to be memorable. It happens in the in-between moments—when a child spots their first giraffe up close, when a train curves through the mountains and everyone leans toward the window, or when muddy hands hold something as simple, and as extraordinary, as a real diamond.

Across the state, experiences are built for that kind of connection. At places like the Little Rock Zoo or Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge, encounters with animals become more than a day trip—they turn into stories kids will tell long after the drive home. In Murfreesboro, families can search for diamonds at Crater of Diamonds State Park, one of the only places in the world where what you find, you keep. And when the weather warms up, water parks from Hot Springs to Fort Smith deliver the kind of carefree fun that defines summer.

But some of Arkansas’s best moments aren’t tied to admission gates. They’re found in cool caves, along quiet trails that lead to waterfalls, or spread across a picnic blanket on the side of a scenic highway, places where conversation slows and screens fade away.

For families with curious minds, science centers and museums— from Hot Springs to Bentonville—invite kids to explore, build, and question, while destinations like Crystal Bridges spark creativity at every age.

Whether your crew is chasing thrills or simply time together, Arkansas makes it easy to do both, often in the very same day.

Plan your trip! Arkansas Tourism offers travel guides, maps, itineraries, and seasonal inspiration to help you map out your next family adventure, at arkansas.gov.

Water Parks & Summer Fun

When the temperatures rise, Arkansas offers plenty of places to cool off, from fullscale parks to local favorites.

Alma Aquatic Park (Alma)

Big Rock Mini Golf & Fun Park (Little Rock)

Diamond Springs Water Park (Murfreesboro)

Magic Springs Theme & Water Park (Hot Springs)

Parrot Island Waterpark (Fort Smith)

Dig, Discover & Explore

Whether it’s hunting for diamonds or quartz crystals, hands-on experiences turn a simple outing into an unforgettable adventure.

Crater of Diamonds State Park (Murfreesboro)

Ron Coleman Mining (Jessieville)

Sweet Surrender Crystal Mine (Mount Ida)

Wegner Quartz Crystal Mines (Mount Ida)

All Aboard

Scenic rail rides through the Ozarks offer a slower pace and a shared experience that spans generations. Arkansas & Missouri Railroad (Springdale & Van Buren)

Arkansas Railroad Museum (Pine Bluff)

Eureka Springs & North Arkansas Railway (Eureka Springs)

Little Rock Union Station (Little Rock)

Wildlife & Animal Encounters

From up-close zoo visits to rescued big cats, these stops are always a hit with younger travelers and just as engaging for adults.

Arkansas Alligator Farm & Petting Zoo (Hot Springs)

Barnyard Friends and Stables (Morrilton)

Blue Zoo Aquarium (Rogers) Little Rock Zoo (Little Rock)

Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge (Eureka Springs)

Curiosity-Driven Stops

Science centers, nature centers, and interactive museums across the state make learning feel like part of the adventure.

Forrest L. Wood Crowley’s Ridge Nature Center (Jonesboro)

Governor Mike Huckabee Delta Rivers Nature Center (Pine Bluff)

J.B. and Johnelle Hunt Family Ozark Highlands Nature Center (Springdale)

Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center (Fort Smith)

Mid-America Science Museum (Hot Springs)

Museum of Discovery (Little Rock)

Witt Stephens Jr. Central Arkansas Nature Center (Little Rock)

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