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June 14, 2018

Native American Cultural Symposium to be held June 15th-16th

2018 Native American Cultural Symposium

The Museum of Native American History in Bentonville, Arkansas presents the second annual Native American Cultural Symposium to be held June 15th-16th, 2018.

​From Press Release:
This Symposium will bring together an array of Native cultural leaders for a weekend of performances, presentations, and workshops. MONAH (Museum of Native American History) seeks to renew the connection between the historical traditions presented in its permanent collection and modern Native peoples. By utilizing community and museum spaces, visitors and presenters alike will be invited into opportunities to cultivate understanding, respect, and an increased awareness of cultural context by exploring Native art, theatre, music, writing, cuisine, and film.

MONAH will host a number of free events throughout the Bentonville community during the weekend of the Symposium and joins hands with Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art​ to begin the events. 

Crystal Bridges 
Crystal Bridges will host a film showing of Sundance World Cinema Documentary Jury Award winner Rumble: The Indians who Rocked the World. MONAH’s Symposium featured presenters will also participate in musical, artistic, and storytelling performances at the daytime Garden Party and evening Forest Concert Series hosted by Crystal Bridges on Saturday. A complimentary shuttle service will offer transportation until 5:30 PM on Friday and Saturday to connect the downtown Bentonville square with activities hosted by Crystal Bridges and the schedule of events at MONAH.

Record-Downtown Bentonville 
The Record Downtown ​venue in Bentonville will also host Symposium events on Friday, June 15, featuring keynote speaker Walter Echo-Hawk, an award-winning author, attorney, and indigenous rights advocate with a decades-long career. Echo-Hawk will join the Symposium panel discussion with the other featured presenters, including seventeen-year-old environmental activist and musician Xiuhtezcatl Martinez, storyteller Gayle Ross, author Joseph Marshall III, artist Bunky Echo-Hawk (son of Walter Echo-Hawk), The Voice finalist Brooke Simpson, and Word Sender award winner Bobby Bridger. The evening will conclude with performances from Brooke Simpson and Bobby Bridger. The convenient location of Record Downtown also allows visitors to explore the community and enjoy dining and shopping around the Bentonville square.

Museum of Native American History
In partnership with Fulcrum Press, the Museum of Native American History ​itself will be home to a variety of workshops and talks held in the Great Room throughout the weekend. These events, among others, include a writer’s guide to the publishing industry, an exploration of traditional storytelling skills, and a demonstration of the Lakota bow and arrow. A prairie-to-table dining experience at the museum will conclude the Symposium, with proceeds benefiting the Seneca Black Elk Mathews Scholarship Fund for Native youth attending Oklahoma State University.

Brought to you by these sponsors:


Here is a list of incoming speakers and performers:

Walter Echo-Hawk
Keynote Speaker
Walter Echo-Hawk is an Author, attorney and legal scholar.   He authored In The Light Of Justice (2013), In the Courts of the Conqueror (2010), and Battlefields and Burial Grounds (1994). His new book, The Sea of Grass , will be released in June of 2018. He is a Pawnee Indian with a B.A., Political Science, Oklahoma St. Univ. (1970), and JD, UNM (1973)


Bunky Echo-Hawk
Featured Presenter

Bunky Echo-Hawk is a multi-talented artist whose work spans both media and lifestyle. A graduate of the Institute of American Indian Arts, he is a fine artist, graphic designer, photographer, writer, and non-profit professional. He is also a traditional singer and dancer.


Brooke Simpson
Featured Presenter

From recording her first song at the age of two to her time as a contestant on NBC’s The Voice , Brooke Simpson is no stranger to music. A member of the Haliwa-Saponi tribe and a powerhouse vocalist passionate about songwriting and people. With a large and ever-growing fan base, Brooke is touring, writing, recording, and has released her debut single, "2AM," which charted on the iTunes pop charts.




Bobby Bridger
Featured Presenter

Bobby Bridger is an author, musician and winner of the John Neihardt Award, as well as a co-creator of the Symposium.  Bridger has performed all over America and Europe. He is also the author of the award-winning books "Buffalo Bill" and "Sitting Bull:  Inventing the Wild West" and "A Ballad of the West".   




Xiuhtezcatl Martinez
Featured Presenter 

Xiuhtezcatl Martinez (first name pronounced ‘Shoe-Tez-Caht’) is a 18-year-old Indigenous climate activist, hip-hop artist, author, and Earth Guardians Youth Director, an organization with involvement in over 30 countries.  In 2013, Xiuhtezcatl received the 2013 United States Community Service Award from President Obama and was the youngest of 24 national change-makers chosen to serve on the President's youth council. He is the recipient of the 2015 Peace First Prize, the 2015 Nickelodeon Halo Award, the 2016 Captain Planet Award, the 2016 Children's Climate Prize from Sweden, and the 2017 Univision Premio’s Ajente de Cambio Award.


Joseph Marshall III
Featured Presenter

Joseph Marshall III is the Celebrated Rosebud Lakota author of "The Journey of Crazy Horse:  The Lakota History", "Walking with Elders: The Wisdom of Lakota Grandfathers" and twelve other books. He also worked as a technical advisor and narrator for the TNT and Dreamworks Television six-part mini-series "Into the West"  and played the on-screen role of "Loved by the Buffalo" a Lakota medicine man. 



Gayle Ross
Featured Presenter




Gayle Ross is an internationally renowned storyteller and a direct descendant of legendary Cherokee Chief John Ross.  She has appeared at almost every major storytelling and folk festival in the United States and Canada. Gayle is also the author of five critically acclaimed children's books.  She was recently featured in ground-breaking American Experience series "We Shall Remain" in the Trail of Tears episode.  


Sam Scinta
Featured Presenter


Sam Scinta is the former publisher and consulting editor of the Fulcrum Publishing.  Sam founded IM Education, Inc., a non-profit focusing on education programming. He is the creator of Fulcrum's best-selling Speaker's Corner Books series on contemporary political and social issues.  






Mary Kathryn Nagle
Featured Presenter

Mary Kathryn Nagle has successfully pursued two careers, both as a lawyer and a nationally recognized playwright. She was born in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, and is a citizen of the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma, and an honorary member of the Ponca Tribe of Nebraska. Her featured play, Crossing Mnisose draws a line from a completely original view of Lewis and Clark's historic encampment at Fort Mandan to the present day, as descendants of the Dakota and Lakota Nations continue their fight to ensure that the Mnisose, and the lands that contain the burials of their ancestors, are preserved for future generations.


Madeline Sayet
Featured Presenter

Madeline Sayet is a director of new plays, classics and opera who believes the stories we pass down inform our collective possible futures. She was named to Forbes’ 2018 30 Under 30 List in Hollywood & Entertainment, is a TED Fellow, a MIT Media Lab Director’s Fellow, and a National Directing Fellow. A member of the Mohegan nation, she was the Resident Director at Amerinda (American Indian Artists) Inc. in New York from 2013-2016 where she developed new plays by Native playwrights and launched the Native American Shakespeare Ensemble.  


John Inmon
Featured Performer


As a founding member of the legendary Lost Gonzo Band, his peers know John as one of the finest guitarist in Austin, Texas, and his fans know him as the signature guitar style that has at one time or another propelled the music of Jerry Jeff Walker, Townes Van Zandt, Ray Wylie Hubbard, Jimmie Dale Gilmore, Delbert McClinton, Jimmy La Fave, Eliza Gilkyson, Marcia Ball, Omar and the Howlers, Bruce Robinson, Pat Green, Michael Martin Murphy, Keith Skyes, Larry Joe Taylor, Bobby Bridger and many more. As winner of the Texas Music Awards’ coveted "Producer of the Year"award in 2012, John has become a sought-after producer, producing records for artists nationwide.



Native American Cultural Symposium  

June 15th-17th, 2018

For more information go to 


__________________________________

Proud Media Sponsor of the
Native American Cultural Symposium!




June 12, 2018

The Crew went to the Branson Zipline at Wolfe Mountain to try out their Snowflex!

We went to the Branson Zipline at Wolfe Mountain to try out their Snowflex!  They brought some snow to Wolfe Mountain and it is the largest synthetic tubing run in the United States.  The Crew had  a chance to speak with General Manager Ryan Goovin and tried it out for themselves!  check out the interview below and the wild ride you don't want to miss!


Interview with General Manager Ryan Goovin 




The Crew having some fun on Snowflex





Gallery from Snowflex



You can go here for information and directions to to Wolfe Mountain for some Zipline and Snowflex adventure!



June 8, 2018

Free Movie Screener: TAG


The Arkansas CW wants to send you to a free screening of "TAG"!  Don't miss your chance to see the true story of the most epic game of tag!

Wednesday, June 13th at 7pm
Razorback Malco
3956 N Steele Blvd, Fayetteville


Pickup your tickets at:
J.D. Byrider
2737 N. Thompson St. Springdale, AR 

Limited seating is available, ticket does not guarantee entry or seat! Get to the theater early!  This movie is rated R, people under 17 must have accompanying parent or adult guardian!


June 5, 2018

The Crew had a chance to check out the The Branson Coaster.

On our trip to Branson, The Crew had a chance to check out the The Branson Coaster.  This is a family friendly coaster and the first double Alpine coaster ride in North America.  This type of coaster uses the lay of the land and natural elevation changes to provide an exciting ride, giving you control to pilot your own ride.   Check out the interview and the crew as they do their own ride on the mountain coaster.


Interview  about the ride


The Crew on the Ride


Gallery from The Branson Coaster





You can go here for information and directions to The Branson Coaster.




May 31, 2018

The Crew had a chance to visit Ripley’s Believe It or Not and Check out Marilyn Monroe's Famous Dress!

The Crew had a chance to experience the unique attraction of Ripley’s Believe It or Not! in Branson, MO! An Odditorium that showcases the eclectically bizarre collection of Robert Ripley. Since 1994 they have carried on Ripley’s tradition of scouring the globe for the world’s most unbelievable exhibits. They are also displaying until June 11th the actual dress worn by Marilyn Monroe when she sang Happy Birthday to President John F Kennedy.  It is the most expensive dress in the world.  Check out the interview below.



Interview with General Manager John Dixon



Crew Checking out Ripley's Believe It or Not!





Gallery from Ripley's Believe It or Not

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For more information on Ripley's Believe It or Not and where to get tickets go here.


May 30, 2018

McLarty Daniel Ford Invites You to a Fundraiser to Support The Arkansas Arts Academy

Press Release:
McLarty Daniel Ford INVITES YOU TO AN EXCITING FUNDRAISER TO SUPPORT THE ARKANSAS ARTS ACADEMY

McLarty Daniel Ford AND The Arkansas Arts Academy Elementary and Middle School ARE WORKING TOGETHER TO RAISE AS MUCH AS $6,000 FOR LOCAL STUDENTS!

McLarty Daniel Ford and The Arkansas Arts Academy Elementary and Middle
School are working together to help raise up to $6,000 in support of The Kids at
Arkansas Arts Academy Elementary and Middle School as part of Ford Motor
Companyʼs Drive 4 UR School program. Members of the community will have the
opportunity to raise money for the Arkansas Arts Academy Elementary and Middle
School by test-driving a Ford vehicle. For every person who test-drives a new
Ford vehicle at this one-day event, Ford Motor Company will donate $20, up to a
maximum donation of $6,000, to The Arkansas Arts Academy Elementary and
Middle School. In conjunction with this fundraiser the School will be showcasing
their Art and Guitar talents. They have lots of fun planned for the day. Please
drop by and help out The Kids at Arkansas Arts Academy Elementary and Middle
School.
Please keep in mind that each test-drive will last approximately 7-10 minutes.

WHEN: Monday, June 4th. Test drive -ny time from 11am-7pm
WHERE: Arkans-s Arts Ac-demy Elementary and Middle School
2005 S 12th Street
Rogers, AR 72758

Parking and Test Drive Course will be clearly marked.


The Crew lands at the Showboat Branson Belle at Table Rock Lake

The Arkansas CW Crew lands at the Showboat Branson Belle.  The Showboat Branson Belle is a showboat that floats on the Table Rock Lake near Branson, Missouri.  The showboat is 278 ft and was launched August 12th, 1994.  It is America's most entertaining dining cruise with an unforgettable experience for the whole family.  


The Crew had a chance to experience this two hour cruise and the delicious 3 course meal prepared right in the ship's galley.

That night we had a chance to sample a great meal and a very delicious ice cream cake dessert made at Silver Dollar City! 

We were entertained by the amazing show and live music performed with our meal.  Check out what the cast and crew of the Showboat Branson Belle had to say about the voyage!






Interview with General Manager Tim Stowe



Interview with ship's Chef Larry Ferguson



Interview with Show Host and Magician Christopher James



Interview with Showboat Cast



Interview with the Ship Captain James




Gallery from Showboat Branson Belle


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Go here for more information on a great experience and lot entertainment for lunch or dinner!  

Showboat Branson Belle is located at 4800 MO-165 Branson Mo 65616





The Crew Stopped at the Hillcreek Pottery in Silver Dollar City to speak with Master Craftsman Jeff Walker

We had a chance to speak with Master Potter Jeff Walker while we were checking out Silver Dollar City in Branson.  Jeff joined Hillcreek Pottery in 2010 after being a visiting Craftsmen during the National Harvest Festival for 14 years .  We found a lot cool gift ideas including some Time Travel limited edition pottery.  Check out below some of the new stuff they are creating at the Hillcreek Pottery.





Gallery from Hillcreek Pottery 


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Silver Dollar City is located in Branson, Missouri and is a major theme park for the whole family. Not only are there over 30 rides and amusement park attractions but there is 40 shows a day. They have preserved the 1880's Ozark Culture with over 100 craftsmen demonstrating everything form glass blowing to candy making. 



You can click here to read more about the different craftsman that you will find at Silver Dollar City.

Go here for more information on tickets or calendar for events held at Silver Dollar City.




 

May 29, 2018

The Crew Checked Out Hazel's Blown Glass Factory at Silver Dollar City.

We stopped into Hazel's Blown Glass Factory and spoke with one of the master craftsman about what it takes to make these beautiful glass blown items.  When arriving in the factory we were able to watch as they crafted a vase.  This is open to the public to watch as they work.  Each Craftsman develops their own style in the works of art they create. Check out the interview and gallery below. 




Hazel's Glass Blowing Gallery


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Silver Dollar City is located in Branson, Missouri and is a major theme park for the whole family. Not only are there over 30 rides and amusement park attractions but there is 40 shows a day. They have preserved the 1880's Ozark Culture with over 100 craftsmen demonstrating everything form glass blowing to candy making. 


You can click here to read more about the different craftsman that you will find at Silver Dollar City.

Go here for more information on tickets or calendar for events held at Silver Dollar City.




The Crew had a Chance to Check Out Hannah's Ice Cream Factory at Silver Dollar City

The Crew stopped into Hannah's Ice Cream Factory.  This place was full of tasty treats, homemade ice cream is cranked out daily in a indoor 4-bucket churn featuring the classics — vanilla, chocolate and strawberry — and more specialty flavors!  check out it out below!



You can find a full menu by clicking here.

Gallery from Ice Cream Parlor

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Silver Dollar City is located in Branson, Missouri and is a major theme park for the whole family. Not only are there over 30 rides and amusement park attractions but there is 40 shows a day. They have preserved the 1880's Ozark Culture with over 100 craftsmen demonstrating everything form glass blowing to candy making. 



Go here for more information on tickets or calendar for events held at Silver Dollar City.





May 25, 2018

The Crew checked out the Brown's Candy Factory at Silver Dollar City

The Crew checked out the Brown's Candy Factory at Silver Dollar City.  Through out the day you can stop in and watch them make these tasty treats and even taste some of the delicious samples.   They do interactive demonstrations of fudge and brittle making.   Jeremy spoke with Master Candy Maker June WardJune has been at Silver Dollar City since 1968.   Click the interview below. 


Interview with Candy Maker June Ward Part 1




Interview with Candy Maker June Ward Part 2


  
Gallery from Brown's Candy Factory


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Silver Dollar City is located in Branson, Missouri and is a major theme park for the whole family. Not only are there over 30 rides and amusement park attractions but there is 40 shows a day. They have preserved the 1880's Ozark Culture with over 100 craftsmen demonstrating everything form glass blowing to candy making. 


Go here for more information on tickets or calendar for events held at Silver Dollar City.