Volume 6/Number 3 Volume 6/Number 3
The Mission of 2NJOY Magazine is to encourage Theenhance Mission of Magazine is towith encourage and the2NJOY lives of our readers positive and enhance lives of our readers with positive articlesthe and informative resources. articles and informative resources.
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Subscription Subscription rate is $22 per year.Inquiries: Single issues are available Subscription rate isfor$22 per year. Single issues inquiries are available upon request $5.50. For subscriptions, upon request for changes $5.50. Forcall subscriptions, inquiries or address 479-464-8900 or address changes call 479-464-8900 or email info@2njoyinc.com or email info@2njoyinc.com Publisher Publisher Ann Gray Ann Gray ann@2njoyinc.com ann@2njoyinc.com Assistant Editor Assistant Editor Gail Weinberg Gail Weinberg gail@2njoyinc.com gail@2njoyinc.com Graphic Designers Graphic Designers Arturo Valensuela Arturo Valensuela Jenny Rivers Rivers PerlindaJenny Pettigrew-Owens Perlinda Pettigrew-Owens Gia Mari L. Pintoy Contributing Editor Contributing Editor Linda Caldwell Linda Caldwell Contributing Writers Contributing Writers Eric Sloter Gail Weinberg Eric Sloter Gail Weinberg Kim McCully-Mobley Terry Held Kim McCully-Mobley TerryWhatley Held Brenda Hancock Todd Brenda Hancock Todd Whatley Guest Writers Dr. Max Norris Guest Writers Dr. Jim Fain Dr. Max Norris Dr. Fain Susan Tonymon CDJim White Susan Tonymon CD White Staff Photographer Staff Ty Photographer Whatley Ty Whatley Contributing Photographers Contributing Photographers Terry Held Kim McCulley-Mobley Terry Held Kim McCulley-Mobley Kelly Weinberg Ravae Lewis Kelly Weinberg Ravae Lewis Brenda Hancock Brenda Hancock Social Media Manager SocialJennifer Media Para Manager Jennifer Para 2njoymag.com |
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$50 Dinner Gift Card
us soon NWA Veterans! Visit to pick up your
to one of our local
restaurant partners
For locations, dates, & times, visit
'Home For Dinner' is a non-profit organization with 501(c)3 status, located in Northwest Arkansas seeking partners in our community to honor our hometown veterans. We wish to provide a one-time gift of dinner to every U.S. Military Veteran currently residing in Benton & Washington Counties, Arkansas. This gift is not based upon need, but upon service to our country.
Bella Vista
Fire Chief
Celebrates 20-Year
Milestone By Kim McCully-Mobley
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Chief Steve Sims
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ilestones, growth and leadership: These things are often marked by quiet reflection, honest perspective, planned additions and expansions, consistent dialogue and necessary changes and improvements as the years pass. Bella Vista Fire Chief Steve Sims is celebrating his own personal milestone in 2015--20 years of service to a community he calls home and a fire department he has come to know as his “family.” Bella Vista, a colorful community of more than 26,000 people nestled in a progressive area of northwest Arkansas, has more than doubled in population since he first launched his fulltime career here in firefighting as a firefighter/paramedic back in 1995. He also wore the hats of: lieutenant and battalion chief. He has served as Bella Vista’s fire chief for the past eight years. The town had two fire stations until 2005, when a third station was added to the east side at 215 Glasgow Drive. The original station at 103 Town Center is the central location for the department. It is also the busiest. Station two is located at 8300 Trafalgar Road and is the second busiest, according to the chief. This summer—groundbreaking ceremonies will kick off the construction of a fourth fire station located at 1639 Forrest Hills Boulevard. The facility will feature over 4,000 square feet of living space and over 5,000 square feet for fire and EMS vehicles and equipment.
“I just can’t say enough good things about the firefighters, EMTs and police who came to our Summer Reading Kick-off! They did a fabulous job interacting with the kids and answering all their questions. They truly are ‘hometown heroes’ in my book!” – Roxie Wright, Library Director 2njoymag.com |
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Hometown Heros at the Bella Vista Library
“Adding this fourth fire station will reduce response times to around the five to six minute mark to areas on the west side of the city,” Chief Sims explained, adding it will also pave the way for additional personnel to help meet current national standards for staffing and response times.
ladder that provides safety, prevention, education and protective services to the population he serves. His department includes 47 fulltime people, including administrative staff. Employees work on what is known as the Modified Kelly schedule: 24 hours on duty and then 24 hours off for four days in a row and then 96 hours (four days) off.
While Chief Sims is quick to point out the mechanics of the department, the state-of-the-art equipment and his efficient personnel, he knows that keeping everyone on the same page “Working on shift together brings them closer. In the and serving as a role model for leadership and service are key fire service, we call that a brotherhood. Everyone becomes a elements to growth and continued success. family,” Chief Sims stated, indicating that on holidays or special occasions, it is not unusual to have spouses and children all He credits the professional relationships with others in the coming to the firehouses for meals or refreshments. various agencies of the city as pivotal rungs on the proverbial
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Chief Sims with Rachel Davison, department administrative assistant for the past four years
When talking about his fire department family, the chief is also quick to brag about his own family. He has been married for 23 years and also has a 19-year-old son. In his spare time, he enjoys other things that northwest Arkansas has to offer— hunting, fishing and spending time with those who matter most. “We feel that maintaining positive public and employee relations is extremely important,” he said. Career highlights for Chief Sims include receiving a master’s degree in emergency management in 2009. He would also like to further his education and obtain the executive fire officer distinction.
while awaiting repairs in the wake of a storm. Whatever the call, Chief Sims and his crew take it seriously. According to the chief, 74 percent of the department’s calls are emergency medical responses. But the fire department wants to be known for helping its citizens in all types of situations. “I can tell you we take pride in providing the highest level of EMS care to our citizens in a professional manner so that we are there when the community needs us most,” he maintained. Future plans include obtaining a new custom pumper for Fire Station 2, the continual addition of personnel as needs arise, planning that fifth fire station, obtaining a new custom pumper for Station 4 and possibly even remodeling the Central Fire Station as resources allow.
A typical day at the fire station includes a healthy dose of paperwork, a layer of phone calls, some friendly banter and responding to emergencies, such as medical calls, structure fires, “I have enjoyed being chief these past eight years and look automobile accidents or other matters. Sometimes, they may forward to many more years with this fine community,” Chief even be called to assist an elderly resident cover a roof with plastic Sims concluded.
Chief Sims with Patient Accounts Coordinator, Bridget Blanton, a 19 year department staff member 2njoymag.com |
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Police Chief’s Roots Imbedded in Hard Work, By Kim McCully-Mobley
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ella Vista Police Chief Ken Farmer has deep roots in Northwest Arkansas, branching out through a law enforcement legacy he is quick to downplay in terms of his own accomplishments. The safety of his community is of utmost importance to him and the colleagues who work side-by-side with him each day.
jailer, deputy sheriff, criminal investigator, patrolman, lieutenant and captain. Career highlights include being named Deputy of the Year in 1981 in Benton County. He was Venturing Leader of the Year in 2003 and received the District Award of Merit from the Razorback District of the local Boy Scout Council in 2008.
As a team, their hard work pays off in terms of reliability, confidence and efficiency.
He has been married for 35 years, has three children and three grandchildren. All of them call Northwest Arkansas home. He has volunteered with Boy Scouts of America for more than 25 years and enjoys a variety of outdoor activities, woodworking, amateur radio and riding motorcycles − when he is away from the job.
A native of Arkansas who grew up in Rogers, Chief Farmer graduated from Rogers High School in 1973. By 1978 he was committed to a career in law enforcement and entered the Arkansas Law Enforcement Training Academy in 1979. Having served as chief in Bella Vista now for more than five years, his career has also included stints as a
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Chief Farmer is quick to credit those who served before him and is proud to say he has expanded on programs already in place prior to his arrival. In turn, he has created a few new ones to better serve his community,
Teamwork and Dedication
striving to meet the needs of those of all ages and walks of life. Some of these programs include: Shop with a Cop, Prescription Drug Takeback, S.A.L.T. Council (Seniors and Law Enforcement Together) and National Night Out/Town Watch. Whether it is shopping for and with children, giving senior citizens lessons on ways to protect themselves or thwarting the dangers of old prescriptions, Chief Farmer wants to give back to a region that has already given so much to him. Perhaps his biggest challenge these days is keeping pace with the rapid growth in the Northwest Arkansas area and staying caught up with the ever-changing demographics of the city itself. “I would like to see Bella Vista continue to be one of the safest communities in the nation. This cannot happen without the cooperation of the police department, other city agencies and the community citizens themselves,� he explained.
Administrative Assistant Shelly Frederick began working in the department while still in high school sixteen years ago
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Dispatchers Jamie Abbott and Alisha Larson, both seven-year staff members
Captain Tim Cook - 16 years with the department
Chief Farmer displays his Chili Cook-off apron where he has been a two-timer winner!
Chief Ken Farmer
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Chris Eubanks has volunteered for eight years
A career highlight happened for Chief Farmer in 2011, when he was named to serve on a committee of the Arkansas Association of Chiefs of Police. This panel has developed and implemented model policies and state accreditation resources for all law enforcement agencies in Arkansas.
He also commented on the influence of Judge William Enfield.
“Serving on that committee has probably been one of my best accomplishments, to date,” he said.
A final message from Chief Farmer to the residents of Bella Vista and Northwest Arkansas sums up the way he operates on a daily basis, focusing on relationships, dialogue and teamwork. Every community experiences similar problems and concerns − to various lengths and degrees.
When talking about networking, leadership, relationships and role models, Chief Farmer is quick to talk about his dad. “As a person, I would like to be like my dad. He had to work hard, long hours to provide for us; but, he always had time for family activities and made time to volunteer in his community. Professionally, I was also influenced by David Clinger, a former prosecuting attorney and circuit judge,” Chief Farmer said.
“Both men were very dedicated to the criminal justice system and demonstrated the highest degree of ethics.”
“We can all be much more effective by pooling our resources and knowledge. We are all on the same side. Criminals don’t stop at the city limits. Why should we?”
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Eureka EurekaSprings SpringsSchool Schoolof ofthe theArts Arts ses!e! u u m m e e h h t t e e k k a a w w e etoto im ItI’ts’stitm
By C.D. By C.D. White White
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here’s here’s something something about about creativity creativity – the – the act act of making of making – – thatthat ourour brains brains andand spirits spirits crave, crave, no matter no matter howhow old old we we are.are. TheThe instinct instinct to interpret to interpret life,life, to bring to bring something something intointo being being – to–leave to leave a mark a mark – is–undeniable. is undeniable. Why Why elseelse would would anyone anyone decide decide to bedazzle to bedazzle an iPhone an iPhone case? case? Providing Providing the the means means andand opportunity opportunity to leave to leave thatthat mark mark is is what what Eureka Eureka Springs Springs School School of the of the ArtsArts is allis about. all about. ForFor nearly nearly twotwo decades decades ESSA ESSA hashas been been a training a training ground ground andand playground playground for for folks folks of all of ages all ages andand skillskill levels levels whowho either either want want to hone to hone a a craftcraft or learn or learn one.one. Who Who hasn’t hasn’t wished wished at some at some point point theythey could could paint paint in in watercolors, watercolors, design design jewelry, jewelry, make make theirtheir ownown furniture furniture or even or even do something do something likelike make make backsplash backsplash tilestiles to match to match the the kitchen kitchen perfectly? perfectly? JustJust fill in fillyour in your ownown “wish “wish I knew I knew howhow to ____,” to ____,” andand it’s it’s likely likely there’s there’s an ESSA an ESSA workshop workshop in which in which youyou cancan learn learn to to do it. do it. BigBig oaks oaks from from little little acorns acorns grow grow Building Building on the on the legacy legacy of noted of noted artists artists Elsie Elsie andand Louis Louis Freund, Freund, whowho started started the the firstfirst art school art school in Eureka in Eureka Springs Springs in in the the 1940s, 1940s, ESSA ESSA waswas founded founded by widely by widely respected respected artists artists andand patrons patrons whowho felt felt an obligation an obligation to provide to provide art education art education for for everyone. everyone. From From a “school a “school without without walls” walls” withwith a few a few committed committed artists artists teaching teaching classes classes in their in their studios, studios, ESSA ESSA hashas grown grown intointo space space on on its own its own campus campus andand is now is now an incorporated an incorporated 501501 (c) 3(c)organiza3 organizationtion offering offering more more thanthan 70 workshops 70 workshops across across all disciplines. all disciplines. Each Each year, year, students students from from around around the the country country signsign up to uplearn to learn from from some some of the of the nation’s nation’s leading leading art instructors art instructors whowho come come to to teach teach three, three, fourfour or five-day or five-day workshops. workshops. It’s It’s a festival a festival of seriof seriousous funfun withwith opportunities opportunities for for individuals individuals at every at every skillskill level level to to engage engage in learning in learning everything everything from from watercolor watercolor andand oil painting oil painting to leatherwork, to leatherwork, jewelry jewelry making, making, beading beading andand bead bead making, making, book book making, making, photography, photography, metalsmithing, metalsmithing, sculpting, sculpting, drawing, drawing, basket basket weaving, weaving, textiles textiles andand fabric fabric arts,arts, furniture furniture building building andand finishfinishing,ing, printmaking, printmaking, pottery, pottery, mosaics, mosaics, woodworking woodworking andand more. more. There There are are perennial perennial favorites, favorites, but but most most workshops workshops andand in- instructors structors change change from from yearyear to year to year to provide to provide the the widest widest possible possible range range of art of and art and craftcraft instruction. instruction. Classes Classes are are heldheld in multi-purin multi-purposepose or medium-specific or medium-specific studios studios April April through through October October on the on the campus campus westwest of Eureka of Eureka Springs Springs on US on US 62 near 62 near Inspiration Inspiration Point. Point. Preserving Preserving heritage heritage artsarts PartPart of ESSA’s of ESSA’s mission mission is toisteach, to teach, andand thusthus preserve, preserve, traditional traditional craft. craft. In 2014 In 2014 an Iron an Iron Studio Studio waswas completed completed for for blacksmithing blacksmithing andand metal metal fabrication. fabrication. Up Up to 12 to students 12 students cancan be accommodated be accommodated andand taught taught to use to use coalcoal forges forges andand anvils anvils to to make make tools, tools, knives, knives, gates gates andand sculptures. sculptures. TheThe Association Association of of Arkansas Arkansas Blacksmiths Blacksmiths even even builtbuilt an experimental an experimental bloomery bloomery furnace furnace on the on the campus campus to extract to extract ironiron from from ironiron ore ore ... then ... then
successfully successfully extracted extracted it! it! Association Association President President Dale Dale Custer, Custer, firstfirst suggested suggested helping helping revive revive thisthis near-lost near-lost art to artESSA’s to ESSA’s Executive Executive Director, Director, Peggy Peggy Kjelgaard, Kjelgaard, whowho enthusiastically enthusiastically agreed. agreed. “This “This aligned aligned withwith the the vision vision of the of the school school as aasteaching a teaching facility facility which which allows allows traditiontraditional arts al arts not not onlyonly to survive, to survive, but but to thrive,” to thrive,” Peggy Peggy commented. commented. Other Other classes classes in traditional in traditional artsarts offered offered thisthis yearyear include include spinning spinning andand weaving, weaving, wood wood carving, carving, basket basket weaving weaving andand shoeshoe making. making. TheThe latest latest addition addition to the to the campus campus is aisleather a leather craftcraft studio studio complete complete withwith sewing sewing machines, machines, hand hand tools tools andand supplies supplies be- bequeathed queathed from from the the estate estate of deceased of deceased board board member, member, Linda Linda VanVan Trump, Trump, whose whose husband, husband, Larry Larry Gundlack Gundlack (also (also deceased), deceased), hadhad been been known known as an asaccomplished an accomplished leather leather craftsman. craftsman. TheThe bequest bequest borebore fruitfruit in May in May withwith the the firstfirst leather leather workworkshop, shop, “BYOB “BYOB - Build - Build Your Your Own Own Birkenstocks,” Birkenstocks,” taught taught by Floyd by Floyd Hilton, Hilton, a fifth-generation a fifth-generation leather leather bootboot maker. maker. In aInchance a chance meetmeeting ing earlier earlier in the in the year, year, Peggy Peggy hadhad learned learned Floyd Floyd waswas interested interested in helping in helping ESSA ESSA startstart a studio a studio to carry to carry on the on the tradition tradition of his of his family family andand thought, thought, “Aha! “Aha! ESSA ESSA willwill make make thisthis happen!” happen!” Hilton Hilton willwill teach teach another another BYOB BYOB workshop workshop JulyJuly 16 –1617, – 17, andand other other workshops workshops withwith Hilton Hilton andand various various leather leather workers workers are are scheduled scheduled for for the the fall.fall. There’s There’s a complete a complete schedule schedule of classes, of classes, instructors, instructors, feesfees andand registration registration infoinfo online online at www.essa-art.org, at www.essa-art.org, andand on the on the Eureka Eureka Springs Springs School School of the of the ArtsArts page page on Facebook on Facebook or phone or phone (479) (479) 253-5384. 253-5384. 2njoymag.com |
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July 6-10
Life Drawing/Mary Springer Basic Beading/Edwige Denyszyn (July 8-10) Imaginative Drawings on Clay/Miki Glasser Beginning Metalsmithing/Jewelry Judy Lee Carpenter
July 13-17
Drawing for 3-D Art/Dan Morris Off the Loom Weaving/Eleanor Lux Enameling: Picture in Picture in Picture/Andrew Kuebeck Bent Lamination: Dancing Stools/Chairs/Michael Brolly Beginning Sculpture/Lew Aytes
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Kresse Family Week at ESSA Pastels/Cynthia Kresse Portraiture in Clay/Kevin Kresse
August 10-14
Picasso’s “Lost Block” Printmaking/Jaimie Froelich Powder Coating/Janet Alexander Vacuum Lamination of Veneered Boxes/Doug Stowe
Acrylic Painting/Denise Ryan Ocean Necklace and Bracelet/Edwige Denyszyn (July 22-24) Joy of Woodworking/Steve Palmer (July 22-24)
August 17-21
July 27-31
August 24-28
Art Doll Making/Valerie Hubbard Damon (July 29-31) Layered Screen Printing Techniques with Fabric/Lisa Kerpoe Mixed Media Mosaics Icon/Fran Carlin (July 29-31) Intermediate Metalsmithing/Jewelry Judy Lee Carpenter
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August 3-7 Woodcarving/Watercolor Painting/John Engler
Improving on Your Paintings/John Willer Building/Using Hand Tools for Chasing and Repousse/Kirk Sullens (Aug. 16-22)
Beginning Acrylic Painting/Scott Wren
Learn to BEE Honey Savvy...
BY SUSAN TONYMON
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uying local honey has many benefits. But while consumers may purchase honey and other bee related products, they may not realize the positive impact that bees and their “keepers” have on the environment as well. Bees’ behavior, communication, and social structure are often mysterious, like some exotic combination of springtime pest and petite sweet treat maker. Bees are charming communicators beyond their buzz. Honey bees make use of five senses to help them communicate; however, honey bees also have extra tools, too. Pheromones are chemical scents that animals produce to trigger behavioral responses from the other members of the same species. Honey-bee pheromones have specialized purposes in each colony. Chances, if you’ve watched a bee for very long you may have glimpsed another bee communication tool called the waggle dance. Depending on the speed and form of the dance, bees can communicate amazingly precise information about the location of food sources, even at great distances. Environmental changes and Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD) are affecting bee colonies across the globe. Environmental changes are a growing concern for the potential long term effects on honey bee health and for the entire beekeeping industry. Often overlooked, honey bees have been under serious pressure from a mystery problem: Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD) which kills adult bees, except the queen and immature bees within the colony. Learn the real nature behind the mysterious bee colony. Tom Nichols of Prairie Grove, Arkansas, president of the NWA BeeKeepers organization, has raised bees and studied bee behaviors for many years. He is well known for his insight into the bees of today and has developed theories about why Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD) is occurring around the globe.
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute/University of Arkansas, 2 East Center Street, Fayetteville, Arkansas. www.olli. uark.edu, olli@uark.edu, 479575-4545. Facebook “Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at UARK” Susan Tonymon, author, director, Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at University of Arkansas, stonymon@uark. edu, 479-575-3581.
Nichols offered a course, “The Secret Life of Bees” for OLLI (Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, University of Arkansas) in May, 2015 at his bee colony located in Prairie Grove, Arkansas. Students learned about bee behavior, social structure, the nature of honey and saw how it was produced. For more information visit www.olli.uark.edu or call 479-575-4545. BY SUSAN TONYMON 2njoymag.com |
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65 years of Magic on the Mountain There are some who might think the word Opera next to the word Ozarks should be spelled Opry. But they’d be wrong. This is the real deal!
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he stage is set, the lights dim, the orchestra begins and the opera house at Inspiration Point Fine Arts Colony on U.S. Hwy. 62 west of Eureka Springs bursts into vibrant sound and color for the 65th season of Opera in the Ozarks. Within seconds, you’re awestruck. Who knew? All year, all across the country, talented young singers serious about an operatic career have been auditioning for a chance to knock your socks off, so you might as well plan on going home sockless. Even if you think you don’t like opera, the intimate and idyllic setting the venue at Inspiration Point lends to
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this centuries-old method of storytelling is likely to change your mind with an up-close, exciting experience in a way large opera houses can’t offer. The 2015 repertory includes Giuseppe Verdi’s La Traviata, the tale of a Parisian courtesan who gives up the man she loves to save his family’s reputation; Gioacchino Rossini’s La Cenerentola (Cinderella), a variation of the traditional fairy tale with a gold-digging stepfamily and a lost bracelet instead of a slipper; and Jacques Offenbach’s The Tales of Hoffman, inspired by three stories from German fantasy and horror storyteller E.T.A. Hoffman – one of the grandest and most expressive of 19th-century French operas.
Dates: The 65th Anniversary season of Opera in the Ozarks runs until July 17. Curtain time: 7:30 p.m. at Inspiration Point, 4 p.m. at Arend Arts Center Tickets: $20 - $25 online at www.opera.org or by calling (479) 253-8595. Information and directions: See www.opera.org or phone (479) 2253-8595. Special evenings July 13: Orchestra members step into the spotlight with a Chamber Music Concert July 14: An Evening of Opera Scenes from the 400-year history of opera spotlight the promise and individual talents of the 47-member 2015 Company.
By C. D. White
Addy Sterrett (Clorinda), Kathryn Rupp (Tisbe) and Lauren Davis in the auditorium production of Cinderella
The fully staged and costumed operas are sung by the exceptional voices of tomorrow’s operatic stars and accompanied by an orchestra of 25 gifted musicians. Opera in the Ozarks Artistic Director, Thomas Cockrell, promises, “The 2015 season’s operas are certain to dazzle with astounding vocal artistry, exuberant chorus scenes and poignant musical story telling.” From humble beginnings as a summer music camp in the 1950s, Opera in the Ozarks has become a nationally acclaimed program for emerging operatic professionals. During the intensive eight-week summer training
Your opera experience at Inspiration Point • There is no dress code, so feel free to dress up or down; but dress comfortably. • There is an optional Opera Talk at 7 p.m. The general director and two or three singers explain the plot of that night’s opera and answer questions. • Arrive 20 - 30 minutes early to find a parking spot and look around. • English supertitles are projected above the stage so you can follow operas sung in their original languages. • No concessions available except for water, so you may want to plan on dinner at one of Eureka Springs’ great restaurants before the opera.
and performance program artists are trained, conducted, coached and encouraged by a supportive, professional staff. Alumni of this program now sing in the major opera houses of the world and many others teach at prestigious colleges and universities. But the program at Opera in the Ozarks isn’t just about the voices. Each season the resident staff is joined by young musicians, costume makers, set builders and stagehands – all talented young people who have come to the campus prepared to give their best to achieve a dream. And together they produce some darned good entertainment. 2njoymag.com |
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Performance schedule at Inspiration Point
(Curtain 7:30 p.m. except where noted) July
5 Tales of Hoffman (4 p.m. Arend Arts Center) 6 La Cenerentola 7 La Traviata 8 Tales of Hoffman 9 La Cenerentola 10 La Traviata 11 Tales of Hoffman 11 Cinderella (2 p.m. Eureka Springs Auditorium) 12 La Traviata (4 p.m. Arend Arts Center) 13 Chamber Music Concert 14 Opera Scenes 15 La Cenerentola 16 La Traviata 17 Tales of Hoffman
Nick Aguirre as Dandini, Megan Berti as Angelina in La Cenerentola
Mary Bander as Violetta in La Traviata
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rrive early and browse the ‘Art in Opera’ Fine Art Group Show by Eureka Springs area artists featuring work based on the season’s repertoire or opera themes in general. Many artists donate a portion of the proceeds from sales to the Opera’s scholarship fund. It’s a great way to support the program and have an opera-inspired work of art for your home or to give as a gift! How Do You Paint a Song by Diana Harvey
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What We Owe Our
Soldiers
When They Come Home by TOM MURPHY Monday, May 31st 2010
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ecently I read a headline about the great number of soldiers returning from our wars with emotional scars. I met one of these soldiers. He was a seatmate of mine on a plane from Seattle to Los Angeles. Buff with a crew cut and muscles rippling below a green camouflage T-shirt, he was the last to board our midday flight. I learned he was a former soldier when he told me in words jumbled from a meeting he’d had with Jim Beam before meeting me. But liquor did a poor job covering whatever he was trying to mask. It wasn’t so much his exaggerated gestures of friendship
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- including a powerful handshake and a breezy “Hey, friend” salutation - that gave him away. It was how quickly he switched from light to dark. When he told me I needed to catch him if he fell, that’s when I knew his facile attempts at engagement were neither funny nor innocent. In these anxious times I could see the airline had a potential security risk on its hands as well. That became clear when a flight attendant passed up the aisle preparing the cabin for departure. The soldier asked her where he knew her from, and she grinned. But when he then adopted a sinister tone, followed by a contemptuous head fake toward me,
a cloud passed over her face. When he asked her if she thought I could be trusted in an emergency, that’s when she raised a finger and promised to be right back. A minute later a burly gate agent arrived and asked the soldier if he had been drinking. This was a telling moment - it could go either way, I sensed - but to my surprise the soldier’s chest deflated and he said, “Yes, sir,” in a whisper. The agent asked him if he had any carry-on items and he became limp as a puppy shown a rolled newspaper. The agent offered to help carry his items off the plane, and the soldier complied with a series of barely audible, “Yes, sirs.” I bring all this up on Memorial Day because watching this young man brought back memories of reading Ernest Hemingway’s “Soldier’s Home,” the story of a G.I. who returned home after the First World War with trauma invisible to everyone he passed along the street. Had what my seatmate seen during his tour of duty precipitated this behavior? Impossible for me to say, but shouldn’t the sight of a conflicted soldier trigger our curiosity? Maybe “no man left behind” needs to be a civilian call to action as much as a military one. Maybe our worthy calls for better government services for our returning veterans need to be matched by a willingness to pay attention to the men and women who have put their lives on the line for us - and now are hurting.
How did the story end? The soldier stood up and reached for his camouflaged backpack. Then silently he followed the agent off the plane. A moment later the door was closed and we were soon speeding down the runway. As we lifted off, I watched the terminal we had departed from fade and become a dot in the afternoon haze. As we leveled out at 30,000 feet I wondered what the rest of his day would hold. More importantly, what would his tomorrows hold? And what if he had never gone to war? Might his life have been like the young dad’s, his age, who sat four rows in front of me bouncing a giggling infant on his lap? Two hours later we touched down in Los Angeles, and I thought how 90 years had passed since Hemingway’s soldier had returned home. My soldier was a recent arrival, as he had revealed to me, but the ghosts carried by some of those who fight our wars never age nor fade. Murphy is the director of the Human Resiliency Institute at Fordham University and the author of “Reclaiming the Sky.” Watch for an exciting feature on EDGE4VETS focused on turning strengths of Military Service into “Tools” for success in school, work – and life in the fall issue of 2NJoy. Reprinted article: NY DAILY NEWS 2njoymag.com |
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Saving Cities from
Urban Blight How Springdale Goes Above and Beyond by Brenda Hancock
House donated by Wells Fargo to be renovated by Community Development Block Grant
D
on Hancock uses recycling and volunteers to extend the reach of a federal grant program to help low to moderate income families make their homes safer, more energy efficient and livable. Hancock is the manager of the Community Development Block Grant for Springdale. It’s a federal program financed by the Department of Housing and Urban Development that aims to help cities eliminate urban blight. Arkansas has 14 entitlement cities that benefit from this program. The majority of the funds from the grant for Springdale provide housing rehabilitation that enables extremely low to moderate income families who own their homes to bring them up to current housing standards. For many of these families, when an emergency arises such as a leaky roof or nonfunctioning heating and air conditioning unit, they have no reserve funding to alleviate these health or safety concerns. The grant enables qualified homeowners to rehabilitate and improve their residences, even when they do not have the funds to take care of emergencies. Springdale’s grant allows up to $30,000 to be spent on each house to bring it up to current housing standards. “Most of the time after we’ve done the renovations to these houses, the homeowner’s utility bills will be cut in half or even
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better. That gives them more money for food or medicine or other things that they need,” Hancock explained. The priority is to replace windows, doors, heating and air conditioning units with energy star rated units. Roofs and broken water or sewer lines are also replaced; however, the grant is not used for merely cosmetic improvements. Shortly after taking over management of the grant for Springdale, Hancock realized that more often than not, the windows being replaced were aluminum, a material that could be recycled instead of being placed in a landfill. Once he realized that these materials were just being dumped in landfills, Hancock decided to develop a recycling program. Commissioned to tear down a metal building in order to widen a road, Hancock used that metal to build a shed to house the recycling. After a little research, he realized that clean aluminum brings in more money than dirty aluminum, so he began spending almost every lunch hour taking apart windows in order to maximize the return. He then began recycling old heating and air units, metal bathtubs, electrical wire, copper pipes, and any other metal the contractors removed from the houses, taking them apart as well to maximize the return.
Since grant funds are not intended to be used for cosmetic improvements, Hancock decided the money from the recycling program could be used to help the homeowners beyond the realm of the grant. With the recycling money, he purchased landscaping tools and lawn equipment that homeowners could borrow to make improvements themselves. In the six years that the program has been in existence, Hancock has brought in more than $50,000 by recycling the materials instead of just having the contractors take them to the landfill. Because many of his clients are elderly or handicapped and cannot do the work themselves, he also developed a program he calls Volunteers Helping Homeowners. Many churches and businesses, after hearing of his program, volunteer their time to help paint, put up siding, and clean lawns in order to beautify the property. During the summer, Springdale’s volunteer program is at its peak.
Donated house after renovations by professionals and volunteers
Don Hancock (front) helping an all-women group of volunteers who painted the interior and sided the exterior of the house.
Don Hancock explaining work to be done to City of Springdale employees who volunteered to work on donated house.
“I’ve had 100 volunteers every day for a week in the summer who have worked on 10 different houses. In the fall the church groups help my clients rake leaves and clean up their yards. School groups also do community service projects. It’s really a good thing for them to learn at an early age how important it is to help out,” Hancock explained. His recycling and volunteer program has even helped homeowners build fences around their yards so their dogs can safely be outside, as well as erect storage sheds for their lawn equipment. Once a year city employees including police, fire and administrative employees spend a day volunteering for Hancock’s program. “Even the mayor grabs a paint roller and hits the high spots for us,” Hancock said. Since the volunteer program grew as a result of the recycling program, a need for an even larger shed to store tools and equipment and manage the recycling program became evident, and the city found room for Hancock’s ever-growing program. 2njoymag.com |
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City of Springdale firemen helping to side the donated house.
One final aspect of the Community Development Block Grant program that Hancock has taken advantage of is the Dollar Home Program. When a HUD home is in foreclosure and does not sell within a given time frame, that home is offered to the city for $1. Through this program, Springdale has bought four houses. Once the houses belong to Springdale, Hancock uses the grant to do major improvements and then uses volunteers to make cosmetic improvements before putting the house back on the market. All four houses gave qualified homeowners a like-new home at a very affordable price. Last summer Wells Fargo Bank donated a house to Springdale. Similar to the Dollar Home Program, Hancock used volunteers from the Arkansas Department of Corrections to complete the necessary demolition as well as some of the reconstruction of the house. Springdale’s volunteer day had city employees painting the interior and siding the exterior with Arvest Bank cooking and providing snacks and lunch. Through the generous help of these volunteers, the new owner moved into an almost-new home with all new appliances. The block grant program is a life-saver for many homeowners throughout the United States, but Hancock has taken the program far beyond its initial 32
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intent. Homeowners benefit, but so do the volunteers, who feel a deep sense of accomplishment at being able to help people who are unable to do things on their own. For more information about volunteering, contact Hancock at 479-750-8175 or email him at dhancock@ springdalear.gov.
Hawaii…Dream Vacation
My Favorite Top Ten Things To Do By Gail Weinberg
When most people think of a dream vacation Hawaii usually makes it to the top of the list. With perfect picturesque sunsets, swaying palm trees and crystal blue water, it truly is a spectacular place to visit.
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Here are my favorite top ten things to do or see on the beautiful island of Oahu:
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To start the truly “magical” vacation, plan a fun-filled day at the Polynesian Cultural Center. Experience the spirit of the Hawaiian culture by visiting six authentic villages where you can meet the natives of these islands who help make up the history and culture of Hawaii. A must see is the Canoe Pageant--where the Polynesians, in their colorful traditional costumes, entertain visitors with their dance and music. End the day with a luau and fire show.
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Be sure to see the world famous Waikiki Beach, shop its downtown wares and have the lunch buffet at Duke’s Restaurant. Stay around to enjoy the incredible night views while watching the fun street entertainers.
Along North Shore - Shop Haleiwa town, enjoy the wonderful shrimp food trucks and follow up with a shaved ice at Matsumoto’s. Also make time to see the large sea turtles eating and resting along the beaches.
For your souvenirs at the best prices, go to the Swap Meet located at the Aloha Stadium. Featured here are over 400 vendors offering imported merchandise, as well as local handmade crafts, sweet treats and fresh fruit. Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay is a favorite for tourists as well as locals. Bring along an underwater camera to capture these unforgettable moments.
If you’re up for hiking and a panoramic view of the area, Diamond Head is a must. There are plenty of other trails, including the Makapu’u Lighthouse trail, for those who want to work off the extra calories from the delicious international cuisine found all over Hawaii. 2njoymag.com |
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Be sure to use your suntan lotion and sunscreen while watching the surfers at Waimea and Sunset beaches. Afterwards visit Ted’s Bakery, where both locals and tourists line up for their famous Haupia pie. With coconut cream layered on top of chocolate, it’s certainly one of my absolute favorites. I guarantee you won’t have any to share!
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To pick up the freshest pineapple anywhere, why not go to the source? The Dole Plantation, which first opened as a fruit stand in 1950, has become one of the largest tourist attractions on the island (more than one million people per year). Here they enjoy the presentations and activities for the whole family while cooling down with a delicious Dole Whip (a frozen treat).
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The accommodations at Ko O’Lina (Marriott’s Beach Club and the Disney Resort) allow you to take in some of the most breathtaking sunsets and beaches you have ever seen. There are four lagoons, plus many pools, that give children a safe place to swim without having to worry about breaking waves. There is something for all ages--including challenging golf!
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For the history-minded be sure to visit the USS Arizona Memorial. This is where the United States was forced to become part of World War II after the bombing of Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941.
As you can tell, there is so much to see and do on Oahu. Of course, there are other islands offering up the most wonderful vacation ever imagined. You can stay as busy as you like, or just relax and enjoy your dream vacation.
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Prevention A
few years ago a visiting friend of mine plucked a plump creepy crawly off of his neck and looked at it with measurable curiosity. It was a tick that caused the creasing of the forehead and the furrow of the brow. Surprisingly, especially to me, he had never seen one before. I know that is hard to imagine but you see my friend was a Yaqui Indian visiting Northwest Arkansas and had been a lifelong desert dweller from the Sonoran area. He soon learned how itchy they and chiggers can be. We talked at length about the tick-borne ailments that can be transmitted through that suckling bite. My Yaqui friend is considered by many to be a powerful Medicine Man, though, in his ever humble way he denies this label. The conversation over a period days came around to me asking the question, “If all things on Earth are related and purposeful then what is the purpose of a tick, as rancid as they can be?” The old Medicine Man thought about the question for a long time. On our drive to the airport as he was leaving our beautiful part of the world, he talked about the tick again. His answer: “Yes, everything is connected but I can’t think of any reason for a tick but these two. They are here as bird food and they are here to humble us.” For sure, ticks humble us and keep us itching well into the Fall. Sometimes, they cause very serious illness that can last a lifetime. Because life is so verdant and abundant in the Natural State, enjoying nature brings with it many possibilities for a humbling experience … especially if you are new to our part of Eden. We all deal with patterns that are predictable, such as colds and flu in the winter, allergies in both the Spring and Fall and Brown Recluse spider bites, Poison Ivy, chiggers and ticks, heat stroke and sunburn in the summer. Preventing tick and chigger bites is key. I found Cactus Juice a couple of years ago and it has proven itself as a great product to be used during crawly and flying biter season. I can’t tell you legally it effectively repels all of those miserable many-legged creatures. But it is DEET free, completely safe and I don’t get
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Best Way to Deal With Summer Woes By Dr. Jim Fain
bitten at all when I use it and neither do other people. Simply spray it on your body and clothing before going into the wild country. Once a tick bites you and attaches, remove it right away. Most people do this by plucking, trying to get as close to the head as possible and pulling with a steady effort. Hopefully, the head will remain attached to the tick body and not yours. Some people have different ways of removal but the goal is the same and that is to keep the critter intact. After disposal, wash your hands with soap and water. You’ll get an itchy welt anyway that may swell and last for weeks or months. If you get a bull’s eye pattern, see a healthcare provider right away. Medical treatment is complementary to the choice of natural products for tick-borne diseases. Chiggers are hard-to-see mites. The welt is intensely itchy. Wash it and use the same natural topical products that are used for tick bites, such as plantain ointment. We are smack dab in the middle of the part of the country where the Brown Recluse spider prefers to live. The ground zero of the bite often turns black as the skin dies. A large red circular welt rings the black center. I’ve seen people take good care of themselves by putting comfrey or plantain directly on the bite secured with a bandage, taking grapefruit seed extract or monolaurin internally and of course boosting the immune system with astragalus or mushroom extracts. You might even consider using an old fashioned black drawing ointment or grapefruit seed extract ointment right on the wound. Keeping medical care on hand is a good thing and again complementary to natural products. Suggestions for poison ivy include the homeopathic Rhus Tox. There are many soothing and anti-itch sprays/gels to choose from and you can use simple baking soda as a powder to dry the blisters. A Jewelweed wash found in specially made lye soap is great as it dries the rash and neutralizes the poison ivy oil. No hot baths, just warm showers using the special soap is suggested. If the exposure is severe or in a delicate part of the body, prompt medical care is a very good thing along with the natural methods.
Summer can be very hot so heat stroke is possible. Avoiding heat stroke is far better than having it so stay in the shade, under fans or air conditioning and keep activity low during the worst of the heat. Drink plenty of fluids such as green tea (add mint to perk it up) to hydrate and reduce your chance of sunburn (yes, enough green tea consumed can reduce sunburn). Interestingly, supplementing daily with 800 micrograms (mcg) or more of folic acid may reduce the awful incidence of heat stroke, according to researchers at Penn State. Supplementing with a multi-mineral supplement is a good thing, too. For me, I plan on being on the lake, on my fishing boat or on my deck grilling. Of course enjoying my friends and chilling out as much as possible is on my agenda. Have fun!
I WILL HEAR BETTER
THIS YEAR
Call today for a FREE hearing screening
Celebrating 15 years in Bella Vista!
479.202.9653 www.bvhc.net
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A tale about the heat in the firefighter’s kitchen and the welcome respite it brings.
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he profession of a firefighter and paramedic is hard to understand, yet easy to appreciate. Faced with all manner of calamity that endangers them physically, they respond with bravery and exacting precision to many dangers. We, the citizenry of North West Arkansas, enjoy peace and security because of our first responders, which is often taken for granted. When the growling, glimmering red trucks and blinding flashing lights pull up to a scene that require a firemen’s presence, we are assured those who emerge do so with gallantry and practiced professional skill. The daily work they are involved in as a regular part of their work are not only putting out fires; but explosions, cave ins, floodings drownings, vehicle accidents and a litany
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of medical emergencies when a few seconds can mean a life saved. A firefighters commitment carries with it enormous responsibility. The hazards they are exposed to also bares one soul to life and death. When not responding to alarms they fill their day maintaining the equipment, training, cleaning, organizing and strategizing improvements to their own processes. Their 24-hour day has little time for sleep or lack of stress. But they have one time during the day when they gather together; a time as Deputy Chief Boydston states, “allows them to decompress and discuss the day and future actions.” Every firefighter has a story to tell and every firefighter is willing to listen to another firefighter tell his.
the dietary goings on of a firefighter’s life. When I confirmed the day and time of said interview, he insisted I join them for dinner. Some days have unexpected bonuses, that was mine. The Bentonville Fire Department has grown with our burgeoning metropolis. The role of the Bentonville Fire department began in 1887, just 14 years after official incorporation as a city. A volunteer force protected and served the public until the latter part of the 20th century, when the first vestiges of full time professionals began to emerge. Today, the Bentonville Fire Department has six stations located throughout the city and there are three shifts of highly skilled professionals that work 24 hours on, 48 hours off. As their motto states, since the beginning 128 years ago, they strive to: “Serve with courage, integrity, and compassion” As I approached the doorway to the Firehouse I passed a 48 inch gas grill and an equally impressive heavy metal smoker with a side box. It was my first clue that the food that awaited me would not be cold sandwiches and chili.
It is a time when the veterans are able to mentor and counsel. It is a time when all can learn from one another and a time when the energy and enthusiasm of the newer members can give the whole team a lift of hopeful expectation. That time is dinnertime. I have often wondered, what do they eat behind those firehouse walls as they wait for the siren call of help. As a frequent grocery shopper at my local Walmart, I would see these firefighters buying dinner provisions, but for what? Do they fix their own meals? For me, it remained one of the mysteries of the world, what do firefighters eat?
These are the same people I see speeding to fires and a host of other dangers. Somehow I could not see them cooking their own meal. Do they really have time for dinner? Do they eat, as popular culture would have us believe, cold sandwiches and chili? Hard to imagine a bowl of chili in a crock pot staying warm day and night just in case hunger pangs strike. My thirst to have this curiosity slaked was soon to happen. I called my local firefighter station, and spoke to Deputy Chief Kevin Boydston. He readily agreed to allow me to visit his crew; Shift “B”, Fire Station #1, Bentonville Fire Department and explore
I was welcomed by Deputy Chief Boydston and Battalion Chief Marcus Williams. It was one of those rare moments when the crew was principally gathered in the lounge area and I was greeted in friendly tones from the crew. It was Monday, Memorial Day about 4:15 PM, the time when dinner preparation begins. I thought the holiday might be a busy time. But according to Deputy Chief Boydston, it was the rains and possible flooding that worried the crew. They fully expected the busier time of their shift would be after sundown. I was introduced to Matt Perkins and Ben Snodgrass, they are the de facto kitchen leaders. But let’s be perfectly clear about a firefighters kitchen responsibility at Fire Station 2njoymag.com |
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#1, “B” Shift; everyone contributes to the meal and everyone at some time or other cooks. Matt and Ben know their way around the kitchen. They cook with confidence and authority. And they both handled a kitchen knife with deft skill. In last years Bentonville squirrel cook off they competed for the title but did not win. You certainly could not tell they were not the champions by the public support received. According to Ben, they had a line that snaked around the Bentonville Square to sample their dish. They prepared a classic forcemeat (sausage) and stuffed it back into the saddle, wrapped it in bacon and smoked it for two hours. That sounds like the people’s winner, the real prize. They will be back again this year in case you missed last year’s event. Ben and Matt had not planned a dinner of cold sandwiches and chili… thankfully. We were having Shrimp and Grits with Oven Roasted Aspara42
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gus. I did not conceal my surprise and delight in their evening offering. They began by peeling and deveining a large bowl full of huge, four bite shrimp, grating the cheddar cheese for the War Eagle Mill grits, and slicing and dicing the sweet peppers and onion. Matt proceeded to get out the largest cast iron sauteuse I have ever seen; it covered four gas burner tops. Matt told me matter of factly, “We cook for a lot of people, we need a pan like this.” I asked Battalion Chief Marcus… what happens when dinner is on and the alarm rings? He shrugged his shoulders and calmly said, “We leave, not a second to waste. Our job and responsibility is to serve the people of Bentonville.” True to his word, in the two and a half hours I visited with them, they had three calls, each time they were gone in a flash…and it was a slow day. Cold food is not an uncommon thing at Shift “B” Fire Station #1 and no doubt at any firehouse anywhere.
I just hoped it wouldn’t be tonight when Shrimp and Grits were on the table. Despite the interruption of one alarm call during preparation, the process of cooking was methodical, well planned and executed with precision. Just as I might imagine, this is how they perform their job in the face of danger and hazards. Measured steps were taken by all; the grits were simmering slowly, its cheesy fragrance permeated the cooking area and wafted into the dining area. The shrimp were sautéed with the sweet peppers and onions; a pan sauce was made from the juices emanating from the mélange of shrimp and vegetables. Lastly, the pans of spring asparagus were lifted from the cavernous heat of the ovens, the aroma of olive oil, mingled with the caramelized Parmesan. Ha! I thought, this meal puts an end to the idea firefighters live on cold sandwiches and chili. Dinner was off the fire and ready to be served. The alarm that went off
then was the enticing smells from the kitchen that called all to the forefront. Everyone helped to set up, just like a family familiar with the routine. The crew of eight gathered at a beautiful, long, wooden table, emblazoned with the Bentonville Fire Department crest. Dinner was on. We all sat down to eat, the joking and camaraderie was that of a caring family gathered together after a day of individualized thoughts. But also bound together by the common goal of serving the public good. I was regaling in the various conversations, noting the shepherding that was evidenced among the crew to each other. They had one another’s back, even in the preparations of their community meal. Halfway through the meal, the alarm rang, the staccato rhythmic voice of the dispatcher was calling the Bentonville Fire Department, Fire Station #1, Shift “B” to an all hands on deck emergency. The crew was up and running in seconds and the roar of the fire engine could be heard moments later as they were gone again, faithfully serving the public’s trust.
Ingredients for Shrimp:
For Shrimp:
• 6 TBS salted butter • 1/2 cup freshly minced garlic (about 1 ½ buds) • 3 bell peppers assorted colors medium dice • 6 lbs. raw shrimp, peeled and deveined • 1 TBS chili powder • 1 TBS paprika • 1-2 tsp. cayenne pepper ( a little more or less to taste) • 1-2 tsp. black pepper • Any all-purpose Cajun seasoning to taste • 3 TBS. all-purpose flour • Up to 3 cups water • 3/4 cup diced flat parsley, about 2 bundles (save some for garnish) • 1 cup thinly sliced scallions (save some of the green for garnish) • 3 lemons for finish
Preheat a large skillet to medium heat. Add the butter, garlic, and bell peppers. Sauté until peppers are soft 3-5 minutes. Add shrimp. Cook until shrimp begin to firm 5-10 minutes. Add chili powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and all-purpose Cajun seasoning. Then sprinkle in the flour and stir to coat the shrimp, cook 1-2 minutes. Add the water 1 cup at a time until you achieve the desired thickness for the sauce. Add the scallions and parsley and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Ingredients for Grits:
Serve the shrimp and sauce over grits. Garnish with scallions, parsley and a squeeze of lemon.
• 3 cups coarse ground grits (War Eagle Mill if you can) • 1 TBS salt • 9 cups water • 4 TBS salted butter • 1/2 lbs. cheddar cheese, grated
Ingredients for Asparagus: • 4 bundles of asparagus • 2 TBS olive oil • Salt and pepper to taste • 1\2 cup grated parmesan cheese
For Grits: Bring the water to a boil and add the salt. Slowly add the grits stirring frequently. Reduce the heat to low and cover. 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep the grits from sticking. When grits are finished stir in butter and cheese.
For Asparagus: Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Cut and discard 1-2 inches from the bottom of the asparagus. Toss with the olive oil, salt and pepper, and parmesan. Spread asparagus on baking sheets. Roast 5-10 minutes. Do not overcook, asparagus should be slightly firm. Serve immediately. 2njoymag.com |
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By Dr. Max Norris
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ow that it is summer, thoughts move toward vacation (and perhaps far away exotic locations), which usually involves travel. Travel across several time zones has its own unique set of challenges, one of which is Jet Lag! What we call “jet lag” is simply the disruption of our natural circadian rhythms--which are based on a 24-hour cycle. Thanks to high-speed travel in the modern era, we can travel great distances in such a short period of time that our body rhythms cannot keep up. (Or can they?) Now, it is time to showcase a technique used in acupuncture. Consider the general circulation of Chi (Qi or Ki) circulates rhythmically through the 12 main acupuncture meridians over a 24-hour period, peaking each meridian for two hours. A more western definition of Chi may be thought of as the Bipolar Electromagnetic Energetic Power Flow. I draw your attention to the chart. Known as the Horary Cycle, it depicts this energetic flow through the meridians as a timetable. Starting at the top and traveling clockwise, we have the Liver (LIV) meridian at its peak from 1-3 a.m.; the Lung (LU) meridian peaking from 3-5 a.m.; LI from 5-7, and so forth until it cycles around to the beginning at 1 a.m. with LIV. Note the time changes from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. during the Heart (HT) meridian’s peak.
Horary Cycle and Points
Illustration used by permission, International Academy of Medical Acupuncture and Dr. John Amaro.
Don’t worry so much with the names, but grasp the simple concept of the continuous cycle. How does this apply to jet lag, you ask? Well, here is a little trick to help reset your cycle and reduce the effects of jet lag. Think of what happens when you travel over several time zones. Your body’s own rhythms are out of sync with the time of day of your new location. This becomes apparent when you are tired and it isn’t bedtime or maybe you are needing a snack and supper is hours away. Prior to your departure, determine what time it is at your destination. Using the chart, find the corresponding time frame. For example, let us say you are at XNA at 3 p.m. flying to Tokyo, Japan. Tokyo is 9 hours behind, so 3 p.m. minus 9 hours makes it 6 a.m. in Tokyo. Looking at the Horary Cycle chart, you see that at 6 a.m. the Large Intestine (LI) meridian is at its peak. Surrounding this chart are images showing the locations of acupuncture points that can be stimulated to help “reset” your cycle. Find the image with LI on it. You will find LI-1 is at the base of the nail bed on the thumb side of your index finger. I stimulate this with my other thumb nail. Two hours later you will stimulate the next point in the cycle, which is the Stomach (ST)
meridian, and happens to be ST-36 which can be found by placing the hollow of your hand over your knee cap. The point will be where your ring finger falls in a little depression. Two hours later, find the next point: SP-3. Continue to do this every two hours until you reach your destination. Better results have been had if you continue for the entire 24-hour cycle, ending where you began. The return trip will be the opposite, that is, add back the nine hours and stimulate the point in the time frame that corresponds to your destination. This will greatly diminish the effects of jet lag. How to stimulate the points? Well, you won’t need a needle! I use my finger to press into the point and with pressure do little circles and vibration. Other methods can be to use a capped ink pen or other similarly shaped object, and tap on and around the point rapidly 5 times, pause, 5 more taps, pause, tap, etc. for about 30 taps total. The idea is to stimulate the point and reset your body clock. Keep this page with you on your next trip and give it a try. Not sure how to locate the acupuncture points? Stop by my office and I’ll show you how to find them. Bon Voyage! (Don’t forget to send a postcard.) 2njoymag.com |
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Community Profile
By Brenda Hancock
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aving your own pool during the summer can provide lots of fun, relaxation, and low-impact exercise, but anyone who has a pool will tell you that maintaining your pool is not an easy task. If you’d rather spend your time enjoying your pool instead of maintaining it, Taylor & Sons Pool Service will gladly help. Originating their pool service business in Arizona more than 10 years ago, Herb and Chris Taylor decided to relocate to Northwest Arkansas. Father of five sons and a daughter, Chris said, “We moved here because my sister already lived here, and it’s a better place to raise your kids.” Hoping to establish a business they can pass along to future generations, the Taylors already are training Chris’ 17-year–old and 15-year-old twin sons this summer. The three generations
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of Taylors vacuum, brush, and skim pools, while maintaining proper chemical balance and inspecting all equipment as well on a weekly basis. Their yearly service includes filter cleanings, repairs to motors and other pool equipment, stain removal, and repair of leaks. The Taylors also winterize pools at the end of the season and restart them at the beginning. If your pool needs it, they also drain and clean pools with an acid wash before restarting. With more than 10 years of experience, the Taylors offer a unique service with a flat-rate pricing that includes all chemicals used. For more information or to schedule services, you can visit their website at www.taylorandsonspools.com or call (520) 280-8377.
Community Profile
“The Dry-Shampoo Extraction Method”
Quality Doesn’t Cost, It Pays!
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i! My name is Phillip Mason and I love helping people feel clean and healthy in their homes and businesses. My brother Greg and I started DryMaster of Benton County doing mostly carpet, tile and upholstery cleaning. We grew up in a family of seven kids. Our Dad was a potato farmer in Washington State. He taught us to work hard and to earn our keep. My brother Greg is super smart and graduated from BYU with a BS in Public Health. His previous job was working at a lab. Greg is married to Rachel, who is a biologist and is currently working in health care. After earning a master’s degree from DePaul University, where I studied Health & Health Care Administration, I worked in the hearing health field before deciding to become an entrepreneur. My wife, Kirsten, and I have five wonderful children and a sixth one on the way. Sometimes customers ask us: “How on earth did you get to Arkansas?” First of all, we have family and friends living here who told us what a great place this is to live and raise a family. Secondly, we realized there was a void in carpet cleaning services offered in Northwest Arkansas. We knew this area was full of young families who wanted the best for their children and that the area was full of pet lovers who make sure their pets stay healthy. Those are a couple of the reasons that we decided to start our DryMaster business here. It is eco-friendly, using smaller amounts of water and green type products that are more organic — all EPA approved biodegradable, but still powerful enough to deep clean things. We recognized we could make a difference in helping people with allergies, children and pet issues and making their environment cleaner. I suffer from allergies; this makes a big part of each year miserable for me. I am always researching ways to make my environment pollen and dust-free. DryMaster provides a great way to remove the allergens in most carpets.
Owners, Greg & Phillip Mason
Other times a potential customer will ask us how we compare to steam cleaning. Steam cleaning using truck mounted set-ups is comparable to someone choosing a Chevy Corvette to get them from Bella Vista to Fayetteville. On the other hand we are the Toyota Prius or Nissan Leaf, people use us because we have a low impact on the environment and we are efficient and more economical in our cleaning processes. What we tell customers is that both vehicles will get you to your Fayetteville destinations but people have preferences on how they get there. When it comes to carpet cleaning, having more power doesn’t necessarily mean better. There really is such a thing as over-cleaning and attracting more dirt, hair and allergens back into your carpet prematurely. We knew the DryMaster method of cleaning would combat this problem, often associated with traditional methods of steam cleaning and the elementary do-it-yourself units found at grocery stores. Our products won’t leave harmful residue. You can trust us not to flood your carpet and pad with water. We normally use only five to 10 gallons of water to clean the carpets for an average home. By contrast, steam cleaning may use as much as 40-80 gallons of water for an average job. Most customers typically experience a one to three-hour dry time on their carpets that just need a basic cleaning. That is much faster than steam cleaning — which normally sees a one to three-day dry time. People hate disruption in their daily routines. When they do things the DryMaster way, they can start using their homes or businesses more quickly. We are the carpet cleaning alternative in Northwest Arkansas and we appreciate the warm welcome we have received. We find satisfaction in meeting and exceeding our customer’s expectations. We believe a good cleaning of one’s environment brings renewal to the human spirit. Let’s us bring the latest, healthiest carpet cleaning alternative to your home. Call us at 479-640-8841.
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Susan’s Signature Gallery | 78 Spring Street, Eureka Springs, AR | 479-253-8788 50
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