Scene by Carson: There is much to do in the first month of this new decade

Editor’s note: Amanda Carson recently graduated from Ole Miss where she wore a cocktail dress and high heels to football games at which tailgating was conducted in a tent adorned with a chandelier. Prior to this she attended a private school in Memphis at which Southern manners and etiquette was stressed — which does not explain her football game decisions. Anyway, Amanda will attempt to infuse her Southern experiences, exposure and education into the arts and entertainment scene in the Fort Smith/Van Buren region.

Yes, believe it, it is 2010.

Now, I know most people are bushed from the Holiday hullabaloo, but you still must keep up appearances in the New Year and here are a few activities to attend between your gym visits to work off the pounds.
 
Jan. 2
4:30 p.m.
Woo Pig Sooie! Those who are not lucky enough to be in attendance in Memphis for the Liberty Bowl undoubtedly at this time will be glued to the new big screen Santa brought.  So gals, stock up on chips, salsa, hot wings and beer for your man and hunker down for the rest of the evening.

Jan. 10
9 a.m.
Kudos to all the wonderful volunteers who helped transform the Fort Smith National Cemetery into a breathtaking sight. But for those who wanted to help and couldn’t, here is your chance. Volunteers are still needed to help neatly remove and store the 12,000 wreaths so this wonderful honor can take place next year with wreaths just as pristine.

Jan. 15
6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
The National Wild Turkey Federation is having their annual Fundraising Banquet. This event will help promote wild turkey hunting and conservation, as well as promote practices benefitting all wildlife. Great event for all you avid hunters and conservationists out there. The event is to be held at Columbus Acres in south Fort Smith. And an extra note to the hunters, there are more than 25 guns to be given away.

Jan. 17
1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Brides-to-be, listen up. The Fort Smith Convention Center is holding Bridal Fest 2010, which will showcase great vendors and styles to help you with that oh-so-special day.

Jan. 19
11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Experience the power of Self Marketing. The American Advertising Federation has Jeff Beals as a guest speaker to help brand yourself as a power of one. Face it, everyone could always use a little help in this area, because if you think you’re hot stuff already, I guarantee you’re not to others. So make this a resolution to brand yourself in a positive way. The meeting is at the Town Club, and there is a $20 fee for non-members, which includes lunch.

Jan. 21
1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Brides-to-be, listen up again. Kay Rodgers Park Expo Building is holding the River Valley Bridal Extravaganza. It is the most important day of your life, so there is no such thing as too many ideas.

Jan. 23
7:30 p.m.
The Fort Smith Symphony presents “An Evening with the Empire Brass” at the Fort Smith Convention Center. The Symphony has paired with a world renowned brass ensemble to bring you musical melody array from Mozart to Broadway hits. A fine night, sure to excite your earbuds.

Jan. 28
If your earbuds didn’t get enough at the Fort Smith Symphony, here is a chance to help that. Second Street Live kicks off their season with Red Molly at the Fort Smith Event Center (12 N. 11th St.). The harmonious female trio brings in bluegrass, blues, Western swing, modern and traditional music. Remember you can never have too much culture, so broaden your musical horizons.

Jan. 31
Please, please, please do your community and yourself a favor and have all Christmas décor and lights down. Having holiday decorations up past this date is just plain tacky, people.

Have a Happy and Classy New Year, y’all!

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Even though the graduated from Ole Miss, Amanda is comfortable using e-mail. You can reach her at [email protected]