Butterfield LIFE November + December 2022

Quintin Trammell CEO

MARKETING

Kelly Syer

Director of Marketing

Leann Pacheco Sales Counselor

Dave Marks Move-In Coordinator

Elise Lorene Administrative Assistant

PROGRAMS

Riki Stamps

Director of Programs & Events

Michael Burks

Asst. Director of Programs & Events

RESIDENTS’ ASSOCIATION

2022 Council Members

Ellis Melton, President Jerry Rose, Vice President Frances Sego, Secretary Roy Penney, Past President Everett Solomon, Judy Higginbottom, Georgia Thompson, Roy Clinton, Vernon Collins, Nancy Mays, Bob Bender, Doug Prichard

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Jacqui Brandli, President

Robert (Bob) Kelly, Vice President David Williams, Treasurer Dr. Kim Chapman, Secretary Mark McNair, Dr. Michael Hollomon, Chuck Culver Beth Vaughan-Wrobel, Lance Brewer, Bill Mitchell, Chuck Nickle, Wulf Polonius, Will Clark

1923 East Joyce Boulevard Fayetteville, AR 72703

Main: (479) 442-7220

Marketing: (479) 695-8056 butterfieldtrailvillage.org

Butterfield LIFE may not be reproduced in whole or in part without permission from the publisher. Butterfield LIFE is published by Butterfield Trail Village. Contents © 2022. All rights reserved. Produced by DOXA / VANTAGE doxavantage.com

Opened in 1986, Butterfield Trail Village is a locally governed 501(c)(3) non-profit retirement community. As Northwest Arkansas’ only comprehensive Life Plan Retirement Community, BTV offers active older adults worry-free living that is secure, independent and fulfilling – and the freedom to enjoy plentiful activities both inside and outside the Village.

From the CEO

“It is not by muscle, speed or physical dexterity that great things are achieved, but by reflection, force of character and judgment.” – Cicero

As we prepare to turn the page into a new calendar, I am reflecting upon where we’ve come from, as well as what we’ve overcome. In 2022, we marked our 35th year of existence, all while still navigating the challenges of operating in the midst of nearly three years of a pandemic. We’ve all been tested, but our residents and staff have also endeavored to be intentional and deliberate about honoring Butterfield’s values and purpose. Because of that spirit and character, we should be mindful of how much there is to celebrate as we enter the holiday season – and this issue of Butterfield LIFE helps offer a glimpse of that.

You’re invited to read about some of our residents’ and staff members’ holiday traditions, and we’ve even convinced a few talented campus bakers to share their time-and tastetested cookie recipes, perfect for delicious gift-giving. You’ll meet Village Newcomers David and Jerilyn Renfroe, as well as have a chance to view recent bold, colorful updates made to the cheerful apartment of Sandra Brooks.

We take a look outward into the vibrant Northwest Arkansas community to see what non-stop arts and culture opportunities await us this winter. Look for an update on TheatreSquared’s current season programming – including the multi-award-winning comedy sponsored by Butterfield Trail Village, Stones in His Pockets, which enjoyed a popular four-year run in London’s West End. We are also pleased to welcome a guest-written article from Shiloh Museum of Ozark History that provides a nostalgic look back at bygone holiday celebrations in our region.

As we enter this season of festivity, we also know it takes balance to live our best lives. Fitness and Wellness Director Jennifer Neill recently reached out to an array of active BTV residents to reflect on what motivates them – in hopes of inspiring and encouraging others to be assertive about embracing an active lifestyle.

From all of us at Butterfield, may you experience a healthy holiday season filled with great memories and happiness!

Quintin Trammell Chief Executive Officer

Memories Build the Spirit of Christmas

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Christmas traditions and the memorable moments that make the yuletide season uniquely special are as wonderfully diverse and varied as we are as people. Most of us have a common definition of Christmas and its origins, yet individually we have our own experiences and rituals that make the holiday intensely personal. Whether we observe family traditions that date back generations — or discover brand new ways to seek meaning in our celebrations — every year Christmas offers us the opportunity to worship, give and reconnect with those important to us.

Butterfield Trail Village is a home and workplace for hundreds of people who live lives filled with meaning, purpose, fellowship and joy. While it is important to focus on what we do in the here and now, what makes us who we are is the lifetime collection of memories and experiences we carry with us to the present. As we enter the Christmas season, we thought it appropriate to offer a few vignettes about four of our residents who were kind enough to share their own holiday memories and traditions.

Susan Riggs and late husband Charles moved to Butterfield in late 2018, setting up a cozy Butterfield apartment adorned with a number of family heirlooms. Downsizing from a large home to a two-bedroom apartment was in some ways liberating for the Riggses, but it did have its challenges when it came to certain favorite Christmas traditions.

Susan said, “Growing up, my family always had a large real tree. Charles and I followed suit after we married. Moving into BTV and evolving health issues meant an end to that. Not to be deterred, I found a 6-foot-tall fake half-tree online and bought it. It is essentially a tree sliced vertically in half and it fits perfectly in a corner. So, I can still have my tall tree, even if it’s not real!” Susan’s tree tradition is also a bit simpler to manage now because she no longer has a family cat. “For years it loved to climb the Christmas tree, thus requiring that all our ornaments be unbreakable.”

In February 2021, Charles succumbed to lengthy illness. Faced with the emotion and difficulty of determining what to do with some of his personal possessions, Susan remembered seeing “memory quilts” made from special clothing items of loved ones who had passed away. She decided to commission a local seamstress to design and create three lap quilts –one for herself and for each of their two adult children, Stephanie and Brendon.

Susan gathered up a wide array of shirts and neckties especially representative of Charles’s well-known style, interests and school spirit. She grouped the clothing by colors she knew would best fit the décor of three different homes, as well as identified items and patterns that would serve as reminders of the unique relationship each of the three of them had enjoyed with Charles. He was a huge fan of the University of Texas, beautiful Hawaiian shirts, the Dallas Cowboys and Mickey Mouse, and the quilts all display some aspect of those loves. Additionally, Susan had the quilter

incorporate blocks embroidered with Charles’s favorite Bible verse, Philippians 4:13.

Susan gave Stephanie and Brendon their quilts as gifts for Christmas 2021, even flying to Texas with one held safely on her lap to ensure the precious item wasn’t lost or damaged. The beautiful finished quilts are full of character, integrating plenty of traces of special memories and shared interests that keep Charles’s memory alive. “I think they were both overcome at receiving them, but have grown to treasure them,” she said.

Sandi Villinski is a relative newcomer to Butterfield, moving to the Village in the summer of 2022. She has lifelong happy memories stemming from her family’s tradition of attending Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve. She said, “The Nativity scene, lighted candles and singing of Christmas carols create a reverent and spiritual atmosphere for every age.” Sandi also fondly recalled an extra-special gift she and late husband Ted were most excited to give. “One Christmas we announced to our parents that we were engaged and going to be married. They were all delighted, although I imagine my dad quickly started to calculate what the wedding was going to cost!”

The couple went on to enjoy a long, happy marriage full of travel adventures and three decades of living in multiple countries through Ted’s career in the Foreign Service Diplomatic Corps. Sandi described one particular Christmas when she, Ted and their four children were residing in Malaysia. “Living in Kuala Lumpur, baking supplies were difficult to find. Thankfully, a friend brought us some Hershey’s Kisses® from the U.S. The kids and I made Hershey’s Kiss cookies – a very special

In 1984 the Villinski family celebrated Christmas dinner in Malaysia, partaking of special local cuisine served on banana leaves. Food served in this manner is typically consumed using fingers rather than utensils, following a cultural history of elevating the dining experience so that meals are enjoyed with all five senses.

treat. The next day when we decided to sample the cookies, all of the Kisses were gone from them! It did not take Sherlock Holmes to figure out who the culprit was. As one, we all turned and pointed our fingers at the oldest son. He tried to proclaim his innocence, but we all knew he had done the dastardly deed. To this day, none of us can see a bag of Hershey’s Kisses without recalling and commenting on that Christmas event!”

fingers and the 24-karat gold paint used for the crowns of the Wise Men. An artist herself, Betty meticulously created and painted the stable and extended background, using surprisingly simple materials to complete the final look of the creche display. Betty has a very specific way of wrapping every item to keep everything perfectly safe when stored, and her technique has brought the muchloved Nativity through multiple moves to celebrate many Christmases over four decades.

Butterfield residents have lived both far and near prior to retirement, collecting friends, family and related memories along the way, yet some of the dearest times have occurred at the Village itself. John and Sally King fondly remember the very first Christmas they celebrated at Butterfield in 2014. The couple brought together their blended family for a very special gathering – and it is the only time when their children, spouses and all but one grandchild were able to be together for the holiday. (In the years following, they have newly acquired three grandchildren, a grandson-in-law and two great-grandchildren!)

For some, one of the best parts of the Christmas holidays is the building anticipation of unpacking and displaying seasonal decorations that connect us to memories of loved ones. Betty Loewer and husband Otto have resided in a gorgeously decorated Village Home since the fall of 2019. The couple displays a fantastic collection of porcelain art pieces, but the most cherished items come out just for the Christmas season.

Betty said, “My mother was a porcelain artist. About 40 years ago she poured Nativity figurines and animals which she painted for me. It is a beautiful set that is the first Christmas decoration I put out and the last to be packed away after the holiday. A true family treasure!”

Betty appreciates the incredible details her mother’s work demonstrates. Each human and animal face is expressive and beautiful, and the delicacy of the figurines is remarkable – right down to Mary’s tiny

Since that one treasured year of togetherness, Sally and John attend different family celebrations held elsewhere, sometimes one on Christmas Eve and another on Christmas Day. Even though every holiday is special when celebrated with loved ones, the Kings will always hold dear that particular Butterfield Christmas.

David & Jerilyn Renfroe

When did you move to Butterfield?

We moved to Butterfield in May 2022.

Where are you from?

In the beginning, shortly after the null and void (1949), David was born in Houston, Texas. Jerilyn was born in Salt Lake City, two years and one day after David. We grew up in our respective cities oblivious of one another until David transferred from the U of Houston to BYU in 1971, where we met and got engaged. David left in 1972 to go to Germany and Jerilyn went to Argentina for two years as missionaries. When David came home in 1974 we got married one month and one day later.

We have lived in Texas, Michigan, and came to Fayetteville 40 years ago. We have stayed put, but for a couple of years in Tamale, Ghana Africa where we served as missionaries from 2016 to 2018.

What did you do before retirement?

After getting a PhD at Texas A&M, David taught mechanical engineering at General Motors Institute in Flint, Michigan. When a faculty position opened up at the UofA we came down to Arkansas to defrost. In addition to teaching at the UofA, David owned a consulting business designing off-road vehicles and reconstructing accidents. One of the most famous was of the Princess Diana crash where his company modeled her motion in the vehicle and produced a video played on CNN.

Jerilyn received her degree in child development and family relationships from BYU and has practiced her craft by raising three daughters and two sons, as well as grandmothering 13 grandsons and six granddaughters. She taught violin at the Suzuki string school for several years and is an avid tennis player, coaching all of their children in tennis and music.

We have enjoyed and still enjoy serving in our church and community.

Do you have children and grandchildren?

We have five children and 19 grandchildren.

Why did you choose Butterfield?

The people are the major attraction. Also, the extended care provided all the way to death is a great consoling benefit, which we could find nowhere else. Butterfield puts us close to two of our children and their families.

Anniversaries

November

Hansell Schaefer and Barbara Mulkey 20th Mike and Susan Cruse 21st Lou and Trisha Beland 23rd Larry and Borgny Hanley 25th Richard and Susie Jones 25th Jack and Pat Smith 26th Paul and Susan Rountree 27th Bill and Betty Stewart 27th

December

Lee and Beverly Bodenhamer 18th Vernon and Paulette Collins 20th Gary and Adella Gray 26th Dwain and Glenda Newman 26th Doug and Barbara Prichard 27th Tony Stankus and Chris Soutter 29th Jim and Nancy Blair 30th

New Neighbors

Recent Village Move-Ins

Jane Spellman

Jan and Mary Gosnell

Barbra McHenry and Brad Brandes

Lidia Clark

David & Jerilyn Renfroe

BTV’s Transportation Team Has Fantastic Drive

A big consideration people make when looking at retirement life in a senior community is how they will get to appointments, do their shopping and attend local events. Most of Butterfield’s independent living residents have vehicles, yet all heartily agree it can be a real pleasure to let someone else worry about the traffic at times. It’s common to see Butterfield vans or the big black bus traveling area streets and highways throughout NWA, helping passengers attend to daily business and carrying large groups to take part in fun outings. Managing transportation needs for a campus of 400 people is critical, complex work and requires a great team of thoughtful, trustworthy people.

At a time of giving thanks, it is an honor to introduce the members of the Butterfield transportation team and express appreciation for how they make the lives of so many people easier and fuller. Assistant Director of Programs and Events Michael Burks is responsible for managing the team, and he cannot say enough about their impact and importance. “Our drivers are some of the best employees an organization could ever hope to ask for. They are dependable, dedicated and demonstrate safety consciousness at all times. Their pride in their duties exemplifies the quality of life BTV residents enjoy while living on campus. The transportation team is the first real hands-on team to introduce Carriage Club members to BTV life and the fun daily things we do. Our passengers all enjoy knowing they can ‘leave the driving to us’ and frequently comment on the team’s exceptional service.”

Harold Burch is a part-time driver who delivers groups to special excursions and ballgames. He is a “jack of all trades” and is always ready to pitch in help with anything needed, from driving to supporting big events. Harold said, “I enjoy helping folks keep active, and I wish people knew what great accomplishments BTV residents have made in this world.”

Jonathan Carter is a part-time driver supporting shuttle service on weekends and covering church transportation on Sundays. He has a very warm personality and works well with both the team and

his passengers. Jonathan said, “I really appreciate my great co-workers, and our residents are such a pleasure to be around.”

Roger Coker is a tremendous, forever thoughtful asset, managing shopping, excursions and much more. His professionalism is unmatched, consistently exceeding expectations for providing a safe and enjoyable experience. Roger said, “Everyone has a story. Butterfield residents care and always ask about my family. It’s a small world and we’re all a big family.”

Don Malone drives part-time and is an incredible help with shuttle service, excursions and more. He is a kind, dedicated individual with impeccable safety knowledge about Department of Transportationmandated trip inspections. Don said, “Until coming to Butterfield, I didn’t know I would ever have so many grandmas and grandpas!”

Matt Niccum is lead driver for medical appointments, handling daily demands with clear-headedness and organization. He pre-plans each day for medical driving staff and constantly proves his dedication and resolve. His actions speak volumes about his desire to always do the best job possible.

Nathan Sypult wears our campus event technician hat full-time, but also fills in as a medical driver when needed. His friendly spirit and willingness to do whatever is required to ensure residents of BTV are cared for is always evident. Nathan said, “I really value the people I work with and the relationships I get to have with our residents.”

“Our drivers are some of the best employees an organization could ever hope to ask for.”

-Michael Burks

(L to R) Don Malone, Roger Coker, Jonathan Carter, Matt Niccum, Harold Burch (Not pictured: Nathan Sypult)

Featured Village Events

NOV 4-5 | 7 PM

PERFORMANCE HALL

2022 Northwest Arkansas Gridiron Show

The Northwest Arkansas Gridiron Show is returning to the stage this November after a two-year absence because of the COVID-19 pandemic. And the stage itself is new – it’s the Butterfield Trail Village Performance Hall! The Friday, November 4 show will be for residents, staff and Carriage Club members only.

The theme this year, Keep Fayetteville Funny (NWA Too), reflects the move to Fayetteville after 18 years of performing in Rogers. The annual spoof of the year’s news events is written and performed by local journalists. Patsy Watkins, professor emeritus at the University of Arkansas School of Journalism and Strategic Media, will emcee the show; Dave Bostwick, SJSM professor, will serve as music director.

A public performance is set for Saturday, November 5. Please visit nwagridiron.com for Saturday ticket information. Butterfield is the host location only – all ticket sales or other inquiries should be directed to NWA Gridiron.

NOV 10 | 7 PM

PERFORMANCE HALL

Salute to U.S. Veterans Featuring Singing Men of Arkansas

Our nation’s flag will be proudly displayed during the Butterfield Trail Village Veterans Recognition Program. Guests are invited to honor those who served in the U.S. Armed Forces during wartime or peacetime, as we together seek a revived sense of patriotism for our homeland. All Americans enjoy democracy and freedom, an interwoven bond possible because of brave men and women like those we honor this evening. Appearing to make the tribute extra-special, the Singing Men of Arkansas will present a patriotic, uplifting performance.

DEC 9 | 6 PM

PERFORMANCE HALL

Fun! A Very Merry Christmas Party

The Butterfield Christmas Party is

evening and bring joyful, thankful hearts and smiles to share with Village friends.

The evening’s professional very merry line-up features the lovely Janet Rutland and Mischievous Swing Band, performing lively, danceable music. Chef Memo will put his special touch on delectable hors d’oeuvres, holiday cocktails and desserts –a gorgeous spread sure to tempt every appetite. Chuckle and pose in holiday attire with your friends, capturing moments from this special evening in a themed photo booth. The BTV event department is delighted to host this

and can’t wait to enjoy the

décor glitz,

and color of

Watermelon

Historic Cane Hill & Smithsonian Habitat Exhibition

New England Fall Foliage Tour

Village Luau

The Apartment of Sandra Brooks

Step just one foot inside Sandra Brooks’ apartment, and you’ll instantly experience the sensation of being bathed in the glow of sunlight. Entirely reflective of her warm personality and sense of humor, this cozy one-bedroom residence offers a bit of whimsy at every turn, seamlessly balanced with an eclectic collection of nostalgic items to remind her of a lifetime of special people and places.

Sandra’s space tells quite a story of what she loves. An ornate certificate from the International Star Registry shows coordinates of the star named for her late son to celebrate his life and contributions. Another frame contains a large newspaper ad of her grand-niece modeling for Seattle’s former Bon Marché department stores. On a velvety pink ottoman sits a tray filled with sparkling Austrian crystals from the Grand Palace Theatre in Branson – given to her by Branson Centennial Museum, where she volunteered prior to moving to Fayetteville.

While Sandra prefers to leave most of the cooking to others these days, her canary kitchen is fullyappointed, featuring fun pops of color and demonstrating her pride in being a U.S. Marine Mom.

The cheerful en suite bath is not just functional – it also serves as a gallery for a widely varied array of framed art, each piece meaningful.

Sandra's bedroom evokes serenity, decorated with muted tones. Thoughtful placement of special collectibles and framed family photos adorn the walls and credenza.

Sandra's patio carries her love of vibrant color outdoors, with a grouping of wrought iron furniture ready for bird watching and enjoying morning coffee in the sunshine.

Traditional Treats from Butterfield Bakers

Rum or Bourbon Balls

Makes approximately 25

If you’re in the mood for a holiday Rum or Bourbon Ball option, Linda Hayes shares her chocolatey recipe that comes together in a snap and stores beautifully for several days.

INGREDIENTS

1 box (3 cups) vanilla wafers (may substitute graham crackers or Sandies® cookies), finely ground

1/2 cup powdered sugar

6 Tbsp cocoa powder

1/2 cup nuts, finely chopped

1/4 cup butter, melted

1/3 cup rum, bourbon or brandy

INSTRUCTIONS

Mix all ingredients together, and shape into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in additional finely chopped nuts, powdered sugar or cocoa powder –or a combination of all three.

Best after aging a few days in a sealed container.

INGREDIENTS

Crust

Oatmeal Carmelitas

Makes 24 Ann Marie Ziegler’s Oatmeal Carmelita recipe is so memorably good, friends have resorted to calling this simple yet decadent, chewy-gooey cookie bar “Ann Maries.”

Filling

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup quick-cooking rolled oats

3/4 cup brown sugar, firmly packed

1/2 tsp soda

1/4 tsp salt

3/4 cup butter, melted

1 cup (6-ounce package) milk chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate pieces

1/2 cup pecans, chopped

3/4 cup caramel ice cream topping

3 Tbsp Pillsbury’s Best® All Purpose Flour

INSTRUCTIONS

Preheat oven to 350°F.

In a large mixer bowl, combine all crust ingredients. Blend well with mixer to form crumbs. Press half of the crumbs into the bottom of 11”x7” pan. Bake at 350°F for 10 minutes.

Remove from oven and sprinkle with chocolate pieces and pecans.

Blend caramel topping and flour, then spread over chocolate and pecans. Sprinkle with remaining crumb mixture.

Bake 15-20 minutes longer or until golden brown. Chill 1-2 hours before cutting into bars.

Rugelach

Makes 64

INGREDIENTS

2

8

1

2

1

ground nuts (pecans, almonds, or walnuts)

1 1/2 tsp

Gene Tweraser’s delightful recipe for the famous pastry-like cookie common to Jewish celebrations was shared with her by friend Susan Hamburger. The exceptionally tender, flavorful crust just begs to be served with coffee.

INSTRUCTIONS

Mix together first 3 ingredients. Divide and shape into 8 patties. Refrigerate overnight, covered.

Mix sugar, nuts and cinnamon. Sprinkle 1/4 cup of the mixture onto a flat surface and roll out a patty onto it. Turn over the patty and roll out more on other side. Continue until most of mixture is absorbed; each circle will be about 8”.

Cut each circle into 8 wedges and starting at the wide end, roll up. Repeat this process.

Bake at 350°F for 25 minutes. (Gene uses double layer baking sheets because the Rugelach can burn on thinner or darker sheets.)

Christmas Wreath Cookies

Makes approximately 24

INGREDIENTS

“Quickie”

1

1

1

1/2

2

Nothing is more festive at the holidays than colorful sweets, and Ginger Crippen shares her “Quickie Cookie” that bakes up in a flash to serve as the base for cheerfully decorated wreaths.

INSTRUCTIONS

Preheat oven to 350°F.

Combine DRY cake mix, nuts and cinnamon. Stir in water, oil and egg. Mix thoroughly by hand.

Drop by tablespoons onto ungreased cookie sheet and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. Cool on rack before icing.

Wreaths and bows are made with green and red decorating icing. Use “red hot” candies for “berries” (smaller quantities of the candies can typically be found in the baking section with sprinkles rather than buying a large bag of red hots.)

Cookies may be made in any size you prefer. Let the icing dry before storing.

NOTE: The Quickie Cookie recipe can be made with any cake mix for other seasons and the cookies are good even without icing.

Remarkable Live Theatre

Announcing a new season at TheatreSquared has always been momentous, says T2 Artistic Director Robert Ford – but these days, it’s even more so.

“It always feels emotional, but now there’s a sense, too, that it was almost taken away from us, and we didn’t let it happen,” he says.

That celebratory sentiment makes the 2022-23 season particularly exciting.

The new T2 season blasted off in a big way with the zany sci-fi musical It Came from Outer Space in August and September. And running through Nov. 6, Detroit ‘67 takes audiences to 1967 Detroit, when Motown music was getting the party started, and where characters Chelle and her brother Lank find themselves caught in the middle of the ‘67 riots. Winner of the Edward M. Kennedy Prize for Drama, this resonant play sizzles to the soundtrack of the 1960s.

Next up is Stones in His Pockets, an Olivier Award winner for Best New Comedy, written by Marie Jones. Butterfield Trail Village is a proud sponsor of this performance, and you’re invited to enjoy remarkable live theatre with your friends and neighbors – on view Nov. 19 through Dec. 18, or purchase tickets for the 2 p.m. matinee on Nov. 12 and ride the Butterfield bus to the show.

In this hilarious multi-award winner that ran for four years in London’s West End, Hollywood comes to rural Ireland, where small-town Irishmen Charlie and Jake are hired as extras in an epic American movie. But when a famous actress “takes a shine” to Charlie — and tragedy strikes — chaos ensues, resulting in a hilarious clash of cultures that pits harsh reality against Hollywood endings.

“We’re incredibly grateful for the rich partnership we’ve developed through the years with Butterfield Trail Village and are humbled by the applauseworthy support of the over 250 Butterfield residents and Carriage Club members who subscribe, donate, and believe in the work of the theatre,” says Ford.

December will feature the T2 classic, A Christmas Carol, featuring the beloved adaptation by Robert Ford and Amy Herzberg. This inventive, magic-filled T2 original has become a new Northwest Arkansas family tradition.

The first show of 2023 is Kim’s Convenience, on view Jan. 25 through Feb. 19. Before it became an award-winning hit comedy series on Netflix, this playful, sweet, and hilarious production was a smash on stage. At Mr. Kim’s corner variety store, the only thing that isn’t for sale is his family legacy, but with big-dollar projects moving in, does everyone have their price?

Sanctuary City, by Pulitzer Prize winner Martyna Majok, is T2’s next offering of the season, running March 1 through April 9. The play — a New York Times Critics Pick that appeared on their “Best Theater of 2021” list — is about two teenagers struggling with two kinds of unreciprocated love: the kind they feel for each other, and the kind they feel for their country. What are we willing to sacrifice for someone we love?

Next is Chicken and Biscuits, coming to the T2 stage April 19 through May 14, fresh from its 2021 Broadway debut. Rival sisters, Baneatta and Beverly, are trying to bury their father – without killing each other first. When a family secret is revealed at the church altar, things go from bad to bonkers. With fast-paced jokes that will have audiences rolling in the aisles — and Grandpa turning over in his grave — this dysfunctional family comedy is even more satisfying than its namesake.

Closing the season is the powerhouse Broadway musical Violet, from the Tony Award-winning composer of Fun Home – on stage June 7 through July 2. When Violet hops onto a Greyhound bus traveling across Arkansas towards a miracle in Tulsa, it turns into the journey of a lifetime in this Lucille Lortel and Drama Critics’ Circle Award winner for Best Musical.

For more information, including tickets and season subscription package options, visit theatre2.org

‘Tis the season for entertainment!

By Grace Lindquist

There is no place like Walton Arts Center for the holidays! Nothing puts you and your family in the holly-jolly spirit quite like dressing up and venturing out for a festive performance. Groups of 10 or more get discounts on tickets to most shows. So, bring your family or friends and start a new tradition.

Start your season celebrations with the delightful Royal Winnipeg Ballet’s The Nutcracker for four performances Nov. 25-27. Nothing captures the magic of the holidays quite like the story of Christmas dreams come to life, told by a cast of classically trained ballet dancers and Tchaikovsky’s memorable score. This year, 70 local children will be joining the performances as reindeer, polar bears, mice, angels and more, making this a magical evening that the whole family will love!

Million Dollar Quartet Christmas is a toe-tapping twist on the traditional holiday show. There’s no place like home for the holidays, and Sun Records is just that for rock ‘n’ roll newcomers and soon to be legends – Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and Elvis Presley. All four musicians stop by their Memphis recording studio alma mater the same wintry evening. Million Dollar Quartet Christmas, for three performances on Dec. 2-3, brings that momentous homecoming to life with unforgettable performances of classic holiday hits and favorite chart toppers that will have you rockin’ around the Christmas tree.

For more than half a century, The Swingles have pushed the boundaries of vocal music. The seven young singers that currently make up today’s London-based a cappella group are driven by the same innovative spirit that has defined the five-time Grammy®-winning group since they first made waves in the 1960s. Their 2022 Holiday Tour stops at Walton

Arts Center on Dec. 4, and it promises to be a festive and joyful event. If you started listening to holiday music in August, this is the show for you!

A holiday tradition continues when Walton Arts Center and the Symphony of Northwest Arkansas present The Snowman: A Family Concert on Dec. 11. Join us for a special screening of The Snowman, based on Raymond Briggs’ classic children’s book, with the original score performed live by SoNA. Following the screening, acclaimed Music Director Paul Haas will lead the audience in a sing-along of other holiday favorites.

Chart-topping country music star Martina McBride will herald holiday magic when she brings her 13th annual Joy of Christmas Tour to Walton Arts Center on Dec. 18. McBride, a 14-time Grammy® nominee, has sold more than 23 million albums and has earned 14 Recording Industry Association of America Gold® certifications. Her timeless approach to holiday standards paired with an authentic passion for music and storytelling is sure to get everyone into the holiday spirit.

Just before Santa’s big day, The Polar Express is making a stop at Walton Arts Center for a screening of the beloved holiday film. On Dec. 23, dress in your best PJs and cozy up with the family to watch this holiday animated classic on the big screen. Tickets to these two performances are free but reservations are required, and they are going fast!

Tickets to these performances and more can be purchased in-person at the Walton Arts Center Box Office weekdays 10 am until 2 pm, by calling (479) 443-5600 weekdays 10 am until 5 pm, or by visiting waltonartscenter.org. Don’t forget that Walton Arts Center tickets and gift cards make great gifts!

The Nutcracker

Million Dollar Quartet Christmas

The Polar Express

Donations/Memorials

Dick and Anne Booth in memory of Max Sutton Gaye Cypert in memory of Max Sutton

Carolyn Smart in memory of Dorothy Seaton Roy Clinton in memory of Georgia Thompson and Dorothy Seaton Morriss and Ann Henry in memory of Dorothy Seaton, Max Sutton, and Jackee Smith Ron and Polly Hanson in memory of Dorothy Seaton Ann Marie Ziegler in memory of Dorothy Seaton Pat Cornish in the memory of Winnie MacDonald, Georgia Thompson, and Fran Pearson

Health Care/Special Care/Sensory Garden Fund

Chuck and Donna Horne in memory of Max Sutton Susan Rieff in memory of Dorothy Seaton Kurt and Gene Tweraser in honor of Ardith Wharry Ray and Penny Culver in memory of Georgia Thompson and Dorothy Seaton Vernon and Paulette Collins in memory of Jackee Smith and Max Sutton Dick and Ann Booth in memory of Dorothy Seaton

Garden Fund

Dennis Nelson and Elizabeth Houle in memory of Georgia Thompson

Library Fund

Arline Daut

Kurt and Gene Tweraser in memory of Max Sutton Circle of Faith Central United Methodist Church in memory of Lynn Smith, Jeane Randle, Mary Lou Middleton, and Betty Compton

Moving Made Easy

John Elliott Dixie Cole Ann Roberts

BTV Christmas Purse Makes the Season Brighter

The BTV Christmas Purse is a wonderful Butterfield tradition that lets residents show their gratitude to Village employees for the excellent care and services they provide throughout the year.

Each year, Butterfield residents donate to the BTV Christmas Purse fund so that every eligible BTV employee receives a holiday bonus. Whether it’s to offset the cost of buying gifts, set aside for savings, or spent on something special for themselves, a bonus is appreciated by employees each year.

Residents may contribute to the Christmas Purse fund from November 14 through December 14, 2022. Individual employee bonuses are determined

by the total amount of contributions and the hours worked by each employee during the current year. To be eligible for the bonus, an employee must be on the payroll as of December 1, 2022. BTV Leadership staff are not eligible for the bonus.

Contributions may be made in the donation box at the Reception Desk in the lobby. For more information, contact Jerry Rose, vice president of the Residents’ Council, at jcrose@uark.edu.

Please give generously to the Christmas Purse this year – and help reward our faithful employees who stood with us during these uncertain times.

The Foundation is grateful for the gifts received between July 19 and October 1, 2022 from the following donors.

What Goes with Turkey, Stuffing and Pumpkin Pie? Football!

By Sandra Cox Birchfield

When the Arkansas Industrial University Cardinals ran on the football field for the first time in 1894, the team did so only 24 years after Congress declared Thanksgiving a national holiday. As new autumn traditions, it was almost inevitable that football and Thanksgiving would be celebrated together, even here in the Ozarks.

The new Cardinals football team had an unlikely coach in John C. Futrall, a young Latin professor who later became president of the institution after it was renamed the University of Arkansas. Futrall was tasked with leading the very green Cardinals in an 1894 Thanksgiving Day match in Austin with the more experienced University of Texas team. The outcome was nothing short of humiliating. Texas soundly handed the Cardinals their birdseed by scoring 54 points. Arkansas couldn't even get on the scoreboard. An intense Arkansas-Texas rivalry had begun.

As years passed, the Cardinals became stronger and more threatening. When Arkansas defeated LSU in 1909, then-coach Hugo Bezdek declared his team had played “like a bunch of Razorback hogs.” A few weeks later, the team lived up to Bezdek's assessment in a Thanksgiving game in Little Rock against Washington University, who lost with a score of 34 to 0. Arkansas celebrated

its first-ever undefeated season, and The Arkansas Gazette proclaimed a “new era” for the “cardinalclad gladiators.” A year later, this new powerhouse became the Razorbacks.

A challenge to Thanksgiving Day football came in August 1939 when President Franklin Roosevelt moved the holiday from the last Thursday of November to the fourth (November had five Thursdays that year) to help boost the Depressionera economy with a few extra shopping days before Christmas. It also boosted outrage by football coaches who now faced a dilemma: how to reschedule their Thanksgiving Day football game on short notice, including the Razorbacks' game against Tulsa. (So upset, Ouachita Baptist College's coach in Arkadelphia threatened to vote Republican!) Many governors heard these outcries, including Arkansas' and Oklahoma's, and ignored Roosevelt's declaration. The Razorbacks played Tulsa as originally planned and won.

Now, all states observe Thanksgiving on November's fourth Thursday with millions spending the day watching their favorite professional football teams compete on television. Thanksgiving Day Razorback football, however, didn't survive. Yet a newer tradition takes place: Razorback football on Black Friday.

This photo of the Arkansas Industrial University football team was taken in 1896, two years after its formation and Thanksgiving Day trouncing by the University of Texas.

Photo is from the Shiloh Museum of Ozark History's Washington County Historical Society Collection.

The Arkansas Razorbacks appear to have made a touchdown in this photo taken on the University of Arkansas campus in 1938, a year before President Franklin Roosevelt shook up Thanksgiving Day football plans by moving the holiday up a week. Note the WPA sign in the photo. The Works Progress Administration was an infrastructure program created by Roosevelt as a way to pull the nation out of the Great Depression.

Photo, taken by William Carl Smith, is from the Shiloh Museum of Ozark History's Ada Lee Smith Shook Collection.

The Secret to Aging Better… Is No Secret at All

The science is clear and the studies don’t lie: one of the most important ways to drastically improve health is to add more movement to your day. In fact, moving more today than yesterday can have a dramatic impact on both your mood and your physical well-being. Butterfield Fitness and Wellness Director Jennifer Neill says, “Just think – walking for a mere ten minutes after a meal can actually lower blood sugar by 12%. What’s more, exercise can improve your brain health, helping you to think, learn and problem-solve better.”

Jennifer’s checklist of clear benefits gets longer, “Exercise boosts the immune system so you will get sick less often. Working out helps you sleep better – and when you include some resistance training, you can also drastically reduce your risk of falling. Exercise is the one thing that will help improve all aspects of health.”

The notion that a person can become too old or out of shape to start moving more, is antiquated. Those who start exercising at any age or condition will begin to see and feel benefits almost immediately. Butterfield residents and Carriage Club members who regularly take part in fitness activities have plenty to say about how exercise has helped them, both body and mind:

“Exercise is a lifeforce! It wakes me up easily and focus becomes the incentive to have a beautiful day, appreciating the small things otherwise overlooked. Exercise is the ever-so-needed fuel for mind and body.” -Ingrid Polonius

“The early morning classes help me get started on the next phase of my day.” -Don Hunnicutt

“The classes help me learn ways to improve my posture and breathe better. Exercising with others holds me accountable.” -Sara

“Exercise has helped me stay limber and positive. It helps a lot with balance.” -Annette

“Exercise helps your breathing – learning to breathe deep rather than shallow. If you have arthritis in your feet, exercise helps with balance, strengthens your muscles and helps eliminate pain. Exercise just makes you feel better all over.” -Judy Doyle

“Exercise makes me happier! It makes me relaxed and being stronger helps me get things done. Try it, you’ll smile more.” –S. Raintree

“Exercise improves my attitude!” -Tom Townsend

“Exercise is the most engaging thing I do, and I look forward to it!” -Dale

“The exercise classes at BTV have given me more energy and more confidence that I can get strong again, maintain balance and learn to keep in shape. Exercise is crucial to my good health. Movement is essential.” -Nancy Garner

“I’ve done water aerobics since I was 32. I am now 86.” -Unknown

“Exercise, both resistance and riding, has helped me feel so much better. The key is being regular.”

-David Renfro

“Fitness class makes my day. It lifts my spirits.”

-Betty H

“Exercise classes at BTV are a good way to meet people. We have only been here a few months and everyone is very friendly in the classes. Exercise encourages me to drink more water, and it is important to just keep moving as we get older.”

-Lola Mae Shackelford

“I especially enjoy water aerobics because I love the water and we can do strenuous exercises for the legs without damaging the knees and ankles. The balance class is great for me because my balance is terrible and getting worse; the class helps slow my loss of balance.” -Roy Penny

If these testimonials are inspiring but you are having a hard time

finding the motivation to get started, contact the Butterfield Wellness Department at (479) 695-8035 for friendly, no-judgment solutions.

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