Nadine and Bob Miller home transformed for Designer Showhouse

 

story and photos by Linda Kaufenberg

It was a near-perfect night for the grand opening of Fort Smith Public Schools Foundation 2010 Designer Showhouse. Hundreds of tickets were sold to those who wanted to get a first look at what local designers had done to the home of Nadine and Bob Miller. The Millers moved out of the house during the time that many designers and contractors transformed the house into a showhouse.

The showhouse is located in Free Ferry East and will be open in April, Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and on Sundays from 1 to 6 p.m. Additional parking is available across the street at Trinity Junior High School.

The foundation works to supplement public support for the schools. Through their work, the foundation has recognized teachers through graduate study support, encouraged Space Camp participation and given instructional grants to enhance learning activities in classrooms throughout the school district.

Rebecca Yarbrough serves as executive director and project chairman for the Foundation and offered many  hours of leadership and direction. Earl Douglas coordinated the vast project. Tracy Long, director of investor relations for Fort Smith-based Baldor Electric Co., and other members from the FSPS board of directors were instrumental in preparing a program which was distributed at the house.

"The Fort Smith community can be justly proud of those who step forward to support public education in many ways," said Dr. Benny Gooden, Superintendent of Schools. "This … will send a strong message to others that Fort Smith values its children and is committed to providing for all of them the very best of opportunities to ensure their successful futures."

Companies involved in the effort include Lites Etcetera, The Kolor Key, Smith Hardwood Floors and Allison Tile & Marble.