ABOUT | February 2020

FAITH & COMMUNIT Y

February 2020 • www.aboutrvmag.com

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

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DEVOTED

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SIMPLY DELICIOUS

Russellville School District School Choice Application Information and Important Dates for the 2020- 2021 School Year May 1, 2020 Deadline for parents to submit school choice applications to the NON-resident school district. *This is the district the parent prefers their student attend outside their current school district.

The NON-resident school district will send the time stamped application to the resident district.

July 1, 2020 The superintendent of the NON-resident school district will notify both the parent and resident school district in writing as to whether the student’s application has been accepted or rejected.

At RSD, students have a choice and voice in planning their futures.

School choice applications are available at the administration office of the district you are requesting your student attend for the 2020-2021 school year. *Applications will be available in February!

220 West 10th Street  Russellville AR. 72801  479.968.1306  www.rsdk12.net

February 2020 TABLE OF CONTENTS

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A Cornerstone of Faith and Community In 1885-86 the First Christian Church began as a single-story wooden structure based on a cruciform plan. The building was bricked and remodeled with a Gothic Revival exterior in 1925 with arches and 14 stained-glass windows.

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The best year yet Devoted Marital love often has a fairytale aura.

There’s talk of finding “the one,” the single person on this planet with whom we can connect on every level. It’s something so incredibly gossamer, yet, seemingly rock solid. We call it love.

The River Valley Citizen

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What you see is what you get Simple is often underrated. It’s easy to get caught up in fancy presentations and complexities in taste. But there’s something to be said for food that tastes exactly like you expect it to taste, too. It’s comforting.

Healthy doesn’t mean bland Precious Pollinators American Pokeweed

FEATURED MERCHANT Rose Drug Pharmacy, Gifts & More |

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10 things ABOUT...

ABOUT THIS MONTH’S COVER

Subscribe Today!

Have every issue of ABOUT the River Valley delivered to you monthly! Subscribe online today at www.aboutrvmag.com or send/drop-off a $20 payment for a One-Year Subscription (11 Issues) to: ABOUT Magazine 220 East 4th Street Russellville, AR 72801 Call 479.219.5031 for more information.

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~

FEBRUARY 2020

I was floored to learn that we have a Gothic Revival style church in the heart of Russellville. Blame my art background for the zeal, but combining the stories contained within it and the strength of its physical presence make for a really lovely way to begin another decade. My goal with this cover was to draw your attention to the stained glass coupled with the intrigue of an ajar door. They say when one door closes…

2020 LIVE AUCTION PACKAGES LAKE TAHOE SKI GETAWAY

WEEKEND AT THE LAKE

• Enjoy a 3 night stay in a standard guest room at the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino, Incline Village • $250 towards the purchase of lift tickets for skiing or snowboarding at Diamond Peak Ski Resort • Round trip coach class airfare for 2 to Reno, NV • Winspire booking and concierge service

Enjoy a 2 night stay in a small, fully furnished cabin that sleeps 6 at North Shores Resort & Marina.

• Guided fishing trip for 3 people with Xtreme Strike Guide Services • Lake Ouachita Striper Fishing-1/2 day guided trip • $25 gift certificate to Mary’s Kitchen

LADIES TOTAL REJUVENATION

TOTAL HOME MAKEOVER

• $2,000 River Valley Furniture credit and two hours with interior designer, Tanya • $200 Gift Card to Flowers Etc. • $100 Gift Card to K’s Junktique for plaster paint • Garage door Wi-fi conversion package from Overhead Door. Valued at $500 • Television donated by RAMCO

ALOHA MAUI!

June 6-13, 2020* • Enjoy a 7 night stay in a 2 bedroom, 2 bath ocean view villa at Ka’anapali Beach Club from Diamond Resorts • 4 one-way tickets from Southwest Airlines *Dates may be changed based upon availability.

JENNIFER GOODMAN PHOTOGRAPHY PACKAGE

Customize your photography session with one of Russellville’s top photographers, Jennifer Goodman. Jennifer uses her artistic talent to create beautiful memories for your family.

Session must be completed by Dec. 31, 2020 Photography package includes the following: • On-location session • Flash drive containing all images from your session • (1) 16X20 float wrap print

SAMUEL ADAMS BREWERY TOUR IN BOSTON

• Enjoy a 3 night stay in a standard guest room at The Fairmont Copley Plaza, including daily breakfast for 2 • Round trip coach class airfare for 2 to Boston, MA • Specialty tour and tasting for 2 at the Samuel Adams Brewery in Boston • 3-course dinner with beer pairing at Post 390 Urban Tavern • Winspire booking & concierge service

ULTIMATE SMILE BY DR. K

Ultimate smile makeover from the River Valley’s Board Certified Orthodontist-Dr.K! Whether you’re a teenager or an adult, this package will give you a more confident smile!

• First, you will receive a professional consultation and a No Yuck™ digital scan to determine your needs • Next, we will straighten and correct your teeth using traditional braces or clear Invisalign.

• Once we have your amazing smile ready, we will finish with Zoom professional whitening treatment-taking you up to 8 shades whiter in an hour!

PERSONAL MAKEOVER, NECKLACE & SHOPPING SPREE

• 30 minute massage & basic facial with Alice Crowe, LMT • Bayalage service, cut, and styling with Kara Asner at Allusions Salon & Spa • 1 month (8 sessions) of Booty Camp personal training with Jessica White, Personal Trainer at CrossFit Russellville • Manicure and Pedicure with Amber Ruiz at Mirage Day Spa • North Star Diamond Pendant Necklace in 14 karat rose gold. The star is surrounded by a round halo of diamonds. The pendant is a full 2/3 carat total weight in diamonds.

• $200 shopping credit for Agnes & Dora by Melissa Cutler

Enjoy services provided by Vitality Medical Spa and Physicians Laser Solutions located inside Vitality Medical Spa of Russellville • Laser hair removal package for one large area such as legs, chest, or back. Valued at $2,400 • Choice of anti-aging or acne skincare basket featuring brands such as Obaji, Colorscience, Eminence Organics, and Thermaderm • 3 Femtouch Laser Treatments. Femtouch is a non-surgical, out-patient, non-hormonal treatment for women’s health

BUY IT NOW PACKAGE LADIES SHOPPING EVENT AT LEANING WILLOW

• A ladies night out for up to 8 guests, $100 per person.

• Each guest will receive a gift bag valued at $150 and will be entered into a drawing for a $500 gift card to Leaning Willow • Enjoy hor d’oeuvres and drinks as you shop • Open dates but party needs to be booked

by June 1, 2020. Dates for party are based upon availability.

JEWELRY RAFFLE JOSHUA’S FINE JEWELRY RAFFLE

A beautiful piece sure to be the talk of the evening!

• A beautiful 14 karat white gold split band design ring with cushion shaped Citrine set in a diamond shape surrounded by a halo of white diamonds. The Citrine is 3 carats and there is 1/3 of a carat total weight in diamonds in the ring.

FEBRUARY 2020

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EDITOR’S LETTER

We can see it clearly There will be no vision jokes within this first issue of 2020. No ham-handed tries at hindsight puns or sad attempts at other ocular humor.

Instead, we’ll offer a continuation of what ABOUT has done for the past 15-plus years — bring stories and images reflecting the character of the River Valley to it’s readers with a style unparalleled by any other media outlet in the region. Looking back over more than a decade of ABOUT issues, it’s what we do best.

This particular issue features a continuation of our Devoted section, a spotlight on things matrimonial, with a little Q & A session for River Valley married couples who have or will shortly celebrate milestone years in their commitments. In the short answers provided, it’s easy to see that the simple shared vision of a future together is just as important as date nights and open communication We’ve also got an interesting story by Cathy Graves about Russellville’s oldest church — the foundation of the town itself in so many ways — accompanied by the always stellar photography of Liz Chrisman. Cathy’s words and Liz’s images combine to create a beautiful melding of the history of a people and the architecture that housed them. It’s a clear view of the power of community that was often fostered in frontier churches.

Added to the mix for ABOUT 2020 is the first of what will be a monthly column

by Kristin Foster dedicated to educating readers about the workings of local government. Think of it as a distilled version of civics class. This inaugural work by Kristin about bonds was eye-opening for yours truly, and our hope is that the column will lead to a more informed, thus, more engaged citizenry when it comes to local matters.

And then you’ll still see the regulars — Sarah Clower’s super power of always finding herself in weird situations with Cliff Thomas providing illustrations to compliment, Jill McSheehy’s innovative garden expertise, Hannah Butler’s spotlight on local businesses, 10 Things ABOUT your friends and neighbors, Valley Vittles pointing the way to good grub, and a look at rural life through essay in American Pokeweed contributed by Meredith Martin-Moats and me.

But don’t take my word on any of this.

Browse through the February issue at your own pace and discover some things about your home that maybe you never knew.

Look at our region through the lens of our talented writers and photographers. From our perspective, the River Valley never looked better.

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley since 2006 A Publication of One14 Productions, Inc Vol. XV, Issue 1 – February 2020

DIANNE EDWARDS | founding editor JOHNNY CARROL SAIN | managing editor johnny@aboutrvmag.com LIZ CHRISMAN | photography editor lizchrismanphoto@gmail.com BENITA DREW | advertising benita@aboutrvmag.com MEREDITH MARTIN-MOATS | freelance meredith@aboutrvmag.com JILL MCSHEEHY | freelance jill@aboutrvmag.com SARAH CLOWER | freelance sarah@aboutrvmag.com LYDIA ZIMMERMAN | columnist lydia@aboutrvmag.com CHRIS ZIMMERMAN | layout/design chris@aboutrvmag.com CLIFF THOMAS | illustrator maddsigntist@aboutrvmag.com

ABOUT… the River Valley is locally owned

and published for distribution by direct mail and targeted delivery to those interested in the Arkansas River Valley.

Material contained in this issue may not be copied or reproduced without written consent.

Inquiries may be made by calling (479) 219-5031.

Office: 220 East 4th Street

Email: info@aboutrvmag.com Postmaster: Please send address changes to: One14 Productions

220 East 4th Street

Russellville, AR 72801

Benita DREW

adver ti si ng

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CHRISMAN

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~

FEBRUARY 2020

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ZIMMERMAN

l ayou t/ d e s ig n

(479) 264- 2438

Cliff

THOMAS

il l u s tr a to r

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR OF EVENTS

February 2020 1st

— Savor the Symphony fundraiser, at the Russellville Country Club. Begins at 6p.m. with dinner at 7. For more information contact Judy Murphy at 967-1177.

2nd — Groundhog Day 2020. Let’s all hope and pray the little rodent doesn’t see his shadow.

8th

— Eagle Tour at Lake Dardanelle State Park from 3 - 4 p.m. Lake Dardanelle State Park is proud to offer free winter lake cruises for the best chance of seeing our national symbol, the bald eagle. Many other birds will be in the area for viewing including American white pelicans, ducks, and snow geese. Please dress warmly as temperatures and winds are more severe on the lake. In an effort to accommodate as many people as possible for our tours, we will be taking reservations. Call the visitor center at 967-5516 to reserve your seat. We will begin boarding 15 minutes before the tour at the boat dock near the tournament weigh-in facility. Tours are weather dependent.

14th

— Happy Valentine’s Day! Look for the Valley Vittles column in this and past issues of ABOUT for ideas about where to dine with your sweetie in the River Valley.

Find up-to-date information and future events @

www.aboutrvmag.com/events

14th-16th — Hikes, Hearts, and Hugs

Weekend at Petit Jean State Park. Enjoy historic Mather Lodge on Petit Jean Mountain and be treated to a romantic weekend. Activities such as guided trail hikes are geared toward couples. Admission is free. Contact the park for a schedule at 501-727-5441

21st — Bree Ogden at the Old Bank Bar

and Grill from 8 - 11 p.m. For more information contact 219-5181.

21st

— O.W.L.S. hiking/backpacking. Join Lake Dardanelle State Park staff for O.W.L.S. (Outdoor Women Learning Skills). This program series is designed to give ladies the opportunity to explore the available outdoor recreation found at Lake Dardanelle and the surrounding areas by learning skills and knowledge pertaining to nature. The series will be from 6-9 p.m. one evening a month for 6 months. Registration will be $30 per night. For more information please contact 967-5516.

25th — Pioneer Play at Lake Dardanelle

State Park from 11 - noon. Join a park interpreter in the grassy area across from the visitor center to discover what pioneer kids did to pass the time while the exploration and progress of their parents forged the culture

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23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 *Unless otherwise indicated, all area codes are 479. To have your event included in the ABOUT Calendar of Events, email: editor@aboutrvmag.com or fax to (479) 219-5031. Deadline is the 10th of the month preceding publication.

you find here today. Admission is free. For more information please contact 967-5516.

28th — River Valley Arts Center Beaux

Arts Awards. For more information contact 968-2452.

March 7th — Archeology Day at Petit Jean State Park. March is Archeology Month in Arkansas, and you are invited to spend a day finding out about the archeological treasures of Petit Jean Mountain, including the genuine American Indian pictographs of Rock House Cave. Admission is free. Contact the park for a schedule at 501-727-5441.

FEBRUARY 2020

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A Cornerstone of Faith and Community The First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) blends the history of religion, community, politics, and education throughout its 135-year history. Members of this church have enriched our community by reaching beyond the religious services and giving their time, assets, and talents where they were needed. Many of their iconic members’ names shine down from the stained glass windows in the church, buildings in downtown Russellville, and at Arkansas Tech University. This tradition of reaching beyond the church and into the community continues today.

Story by CATHY GRAVES | Photos by LIZ CHRISMAN

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FEBRUARY 2020

A FLEDGLING RELIGION ROUGHLY FORMED IN 1832, The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) is one of three religions associated with the Stone-Campbell movement which began in Kentucky and West Virginia. Frontier Americans desired freedom and simplicity, unity, and practicality. They hoped for a new approach to religion that would free them from European church structures, which weren’t meeting their needs. They felt they could read and interpret the Bible for themselves and build faith on reason. Today, the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) is one of the largest churches founded on American soil with more than 850,000 members in nearly 3,900 congregations across the U. S. and Canada.

The religion came to the frontier West in the form of revivals and camp meetings of non-denominational Christianity. It arrived in northern Arkansas with an evangelist named Elijah M. Northrum who served as the Arkansas state evangelist beginning in 1859. >> FEBRUARY 2020

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Dr. GW Harkey: 1st minister

Mr. Northrum organized the church at Russellville. A congregation of 57 members met at the Masonic Hall and voted for elders and deacons in 1882 with 22 of the original charter members named either Shinn or Harkey. The group met at the Masonic lodge for the next four years.

1897 Easter service in sanctuary

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The Structure Located at 103 South Boston in Russellville, the First Christian Church began as a single-story wooden structure based on a cruciform plan in 1885. Jacob Shinn and his wife Martha owned the property where the church was built and after the construction loan was paid, they deeded it to the church in 1889. The property had formerly been a grove of trees where the congregation enjoyed picnics.

Renovations have been done with minimal changes to the original sanctuary of the church building, with its rounded stage surrounded by pews. A baptistery was added in 1896 after the initial construction. Prior to that, members were baptized in the local ice factory’s water tank. A church annex was built in one day in 1916 by the men of the church.

The building was bricked and remodeled with a Gothic Revival exterior in 1925 with arches and 14 stained-glass windows.

Each window was purchased by individual members and Sunday school classes at a cost of $48 each Electronic chimes and an amplifying system were added on the

roof in 1952 but were later removed, an an educational annex was added in 1954. The last change to the church building was interior remodeling in the 1960s.

First Christian Church was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2006 as having “local significance” and for “being the oldest active church building in Russellville” according to the historical building application.

The Members The first pastor of this church was George W. Harkey in 1885, who had attended seminary school in Texas and was also a medical doctor. He joined the church in 1852 and organized the first

Sunday school. Harkey preached at various locations beginning in 1882 and until his death at 85 in 1915. An unusual feature at front entrance of the church is a memorial plaque in honor of Harkey. It sits on a horse hitching post next to a large rock. The plaque says “In 1885 Rev. G. W. Harkey the first minister had to step on this rock to mount his horse. Many of his family have been long-time supporters of this church.”

A significant event happened in 1934 when 59 new members were added to the church in a one-day revival, believed to be the first in Arkansas, according to the church historical records. >> 1900's photo of west side: exhibits original Carpenter Gothic features & cruciform design

FEBRUARY 2020

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The Reverend Leslie G. Smyth, pastor of the First Christian Church, came to Arkansas from Oklahoma. Despite doubts of current members and a downpour of rain, he hoped to convert 50 new members. According to the church’s historical records, “he received offers from publishing houses for a book he was writing, “Revival in a Service” and stacks of letters asking how he did it. The Reverend Smyth studied psychology at Texas Christian University.

Thirty members of First Christian Church served in the Armed Forces during World War I, from a congregation of 150.

Eighty-one members of First Christian Church served in the Armed Forces during World War II, from a congregation of 300.

During their absence, many of the leadership positions in the church were filled by women who had not previously been given the opportunity to perform those duties. However, it wasn’t until 1972 that the first female elders and deacons were elected.

Reese Caudle (1888-1955) served in the Arkansas House of Representatives from 1923-1928. He was a supporter of the Dardanelle Dam project and testified before Senator McClennan. The Caudle Building is located on W. 2nd Street downtown Russellville and is dated 1947.

John E. Tucker (1901-1983) served as head coach at Arkansas Tech University from 1933-47. He is responsible for ATU’s nickname when as a 17-year-old-freshman he scored two touchdowns and kicked two extra points in a 14-0 upset against Jonesboro.

For the effort, he and his teammates were referred to as “Wonder Boys” and the nickname stuck. Tucker served in various roles at Arkansas Tech including coach, athletic director, director of student affairs, and teacher. Two buildings on campus are named in his honor – Tucker Coliseum and Tucker Hall. He was inducted into the Arkansas Tech Hall of Distinction in 1965.

W. O. Young (1896-1941) served as business manager at Arkansas Tech from 1917-41, and interim president from 1923-25.

He was a member of the first class to receive bachelor’s degree from Tech in 1925. Mr. Young owned the original Jerry the bulldog, the school’s mascot in the 1930s. He was inducted into the Arkansas Tech University Hall of Distinction, and the Agricola yearbook was dedicated in his honor in 1924, 1925, and 1942. He is the namesake of the Young Building.

Wallace Bailey (1921-1969) became head football coach of Russellville High School in 1923. He created the Russellville High School Athletic Hall of Fame as a lasting tribute to the best athletes. He was also an educator and administrator.

L. L. “Doc” Bryan (1920-95) served in the Arkansas House of Representatives from 1967-95. He was an Arkansas Tech University Alumni who championed the cause of Arkansas Tech and higher education. He was influential in securing building funds for several buildings at the college. He is the namesake of Doc Bryan Student Services Center.

Former minister Thom Walker was actively engaged in mission in Mexico and Central America through this ministry at First Christian Church (1996-2003).

Current pastor Dr. Scot Crenshaw started the Arkansas Tech University campus ministry. Located in the Young Ballroom, the program is overseen by Leslie Dunn.

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Central Christian Church and First Christian Church are affiliated as part of the Christian Churches (Disciples of Christ) Denomination. It was developed in 1868 outside of Russellville for the black Christian community. It was formerly known as Edwards Chapel Christian Church. In “The History of Edwards Chapel/ Central Christian Church,” author William S. Richardson states “Dr. George Harkey took over the leadership of the congregation at some point during the 1880s. He was the prominent preacher for First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), which was established in 1882.”

The First Christian Church meets its members’ spiritual needs, maintains an optimistic outlook about the future, and respects the church’s past accomplishments. Active members

still include many descendants of the original 57 members who founded the church.

Bill Newton, owner of Newton’s Pharmacy, was raised in this church. His family has belonged to the church through multiple generations. Even Bill’s extended family has ties, and his aunt Martha Newton is the oldest member of the church at 99. His daughter is a First Christian Church minister in California. “It just makes me feel good to walk in the door. The church has been my anchor in life. The early shakers and movers were members of this church. When I sit below the stained-glass window with J.L. Shinn’s or any other founding member’s name on the plaques, it’s always a good feeling to know I was in the presence of these community icons.” l

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FEBRUARY 2020

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EVE RY DAY L I F E

The best year yet Story by SARAH CLOWER | Illustration by CLIFF THOMAS

NEW YEAR’S DAY is the perfect opportunity to gain a fresh start and develop lots of good, new habits. I feel refreshed and quite ambitious just saying the date — January 1.

Like almost everyone else, I tend to fall off the bandwagon, but I continue to revel in my New Year tradition because I feel that even a week’s worth of being proactive about my goals is better than not setting any goals at all.

So in the lull between Christmas and New Year’s Eve, I gathered up a pen and writing pad, plopped myself on the couch and proceeded to make a line down the

center of the pad. On one side I wrote “GOALS” and on the other “NEW HABITS TO PRACTICE.” As usual, as soon as I sit down to do something for myself, my son decides he needs attention.

“Can you open this for me, please?” he asked, as he handed one of his new Christmas gifts out for me to deal with the difficult plastic encasing.

“Sure, buddy,” I said.

I made swift work of the task and handed his toy back to him.

“Thanks! What are you doing?” He asked, eyeing my notepad and pen. He’s used to seeing me “work” on my laptop,

rarely seeing me with pen and paper.

“Well, I’m brainstorming about my goals for 2020. Because it’s a fresh new start to a new year, a lot of people want to write down their goals they want to achieve or new habits they wish to start practicing.

And that’s what I was about to do.”

“What are some of your goals for 2020?”

Raff asked.

“Well, my main goals for 2020 are to work out at least three times a week and save money by avoiding spending money on anything frivolous or on impulse purchases.”

“Mom, I don’t think you need to save

Show your car some with a trip to Sorrells!

1903 SOUTH ARKANSAS • (479) 968-3991 14

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~

FEBRUARY 2020

anymore money. You’re what Dad calls a ‘tight wad.’” Raff said as he scoffed.

“It’s always good to have plenty of money in savings, which I definitely do not.

And did you get presents for Christmas that weren’t needed in order to survive?” I asked.

“Yes…” Raff answered sheepishly.

“Then I can’t be too much of a tight wad, because I know of a certain 10 year old that got way more than he needed on Christmas morning,” I said.

“Well what are some new habits you want to have in the new year?” Raff asked quickly, trying to change the subject.

“Well, one goal is to start eating healthier, to meal plan as much as I can to avoid eating junk because I failed to have a dinner plan,” I stated.

“Well first things first, more water, less wine,” Raff said indignantly.

Where in the world did he hear that from?, I wondered to myself.

“Ummm… well yes, but I don’t drink that much wine,” I said, looking at my fingernails.

“Mom, Your friend gave you two bottles of wine and a glass that says ‘Mommy’s Juice’ on it.” Raff said as he raised his blonde eyebrows.

My face got red and I cleared my throat.

Nothing gets by this kid.

“What are some other goals you have?”

Raff asked, as he perched on the edge of the coffee table and crossed his ankle over his leg as if he were planning to stay a while.

“Well, I want to start waking up even earlier. I often feel as if I’m rushing around like a crazy person in the morning, and I don’t feel like I have time to do a lot of the things I need to do before it’s time to leave the house.” I intended Raff to take that as a hint that he too was going to have to get up earlier and be more independent in the mornings with less prompting to complete his routine tasks. The hint was completely lost on him.

“Then maybe your legs won’t feel like cactuses. Because when you put me to bed and read to me, they are so scratchy if they touch my leg. Maybe a good habit would

be to wear pajama pants instead of pajama shorts?” He suggested innocently.

I rolled my eyes.

“Yeah, maybe so.” I said, perturbed.

“And then maybe you won’t have to take me to school in your pajamas. And maybe find your real shoes instead of your fuzzy slippers.”

“OK. OK, I appreciate your suggestions.

You can go back to playing in your room now or I’m going make it a habit in 2020 to make you do way more chores!” I threatened.

Raff returned to his room without haste, taking his opened gift with him.

I sighed as I picked up my pen and paper again. Apparently my son had become more aware of some of my bad habits than I had. So I clicked my ball point and wrote out my first item under the “GOALS’”column: Pick a Saturday morning to wake up Raff with rollers in my hair and my robe on and pretend he is late for school with no time for me to change.

2020 is going to be the best year yet. l

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479.219.6030 FEBRUARY 2020

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

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FEBRUARY 2020 FEATURE SECTION ~ PHOTOS BY LIZ CHRISMAN

5

Years

10

25

Years

Years

Years

MARITAL LOVE OFTEN HAS A FAIRYTALE AURA. There’s talk of f inding “the one,” the single

instincts. It’s something so incredibly gossamer, yet,

person on this planet with whom we can connect on

Once we’re past the purply pink haze and into ma-

every level. It starts with a look, a magnetic attraction

ture relationship territory, when we’ve decided that

due almost entirely to hormones, which leads to

this is the person we want to spend our lives with, we

Best wishes

seemingly rock solid. We call it love.

infatuation, and f inally — as we really get to know

discover that there’s way more to the notion of “hap-

this person whom we just can’t stop looking at and

pily ever after” than we thought. And that’s when we

smelling of — we arrive at something more than

realize that despite the sweet scent and bright eyes

to all the newly engaged couples throughout the River Valley.

Contact us today for your bridal registry needs!

Mike & Margie Smith, Owners

Congratulations Hannah Grace and Rob! Thank you for choosing Rose Drug for your bridal registry needs!

Hannah Grace Knight and Rob Branscum

3103 W Main Place, Russellville AR | (479) 968-1323 • www.rosedrug.com 16

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of our chosen life partner, we’re going to need something else to make this thing work. What we need is commitment.

An enduring marriage requires this commitment from each partner to each partner, and, even more, to the union itself. It’s not just “you” and “me” anymore.

From this day forward, it will forever be “we” and “us.”

I visited four River Valley couples at or near various milestones in their marriage to record their

Save the Date

Calendar listings of engagement, wedding and anniversary announcements on the pages of each issue of ABOUT…the River Valley are available at no charge. They may be mailed to: ABOUT Magazine, P.O. Box 10176, Russellville AR 72812 or sent via email to: editor@aboutrvmag.com. (A phone number must be included for verification.)

MARCH 2020

MAY 2020

Anna Hughes & Tyler Calavatta (11th)

Tori Underhill & T.J. Glasse (31st)

Dakota Patterson & Brad McBryde (14th)

Lauren Kirby & Tripp Penney (TBD)

Brittany TeShay Sears & Malik Lamar Oliver (20th)

JUNE 2020

Cierra Gregory & Dillon Collins (21st)

Madison Reasoner & Jacob Morton (6th)

Amy Duncan & Michael Jennings (28th)

Hannah Key & Travis Farmer (13th)

Ashley Tallent & Roger Ellington (28th)

JULY 2020

Stephanie Cannon & Zach Carter (28th)

words of wisdom as they travel

April 2020

this life together. Each perspec-

Sarah Langston & Hunter Jackson (17th)

tive reveals that there isn’t really a

MAY 2020

secret to a lasting marriage.

ENGAGEMENTS

Charleigh Kennamore & Caleb Albrecht (5th)

AUGUST 2020 Andrea Dixon & Chad Stewart (15th)

Hannah Grace Knight & Robert Branscum (1st)

Meredith Hedberg & Morgan Link (29th)

It requires a deep appreciation of

Sidney Brandon & Jacob Taylor (10th)

OCTOBER 2020

similarities and differences, and a

Grace Sykes & Jeremy Smothers (15th)

Megan Ayres & Clay Moore (3rd)

devotion to promises made.

Tori Lantz & Mason Buerer (16th)

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

17

5

Years JUNE 21, 2014

AMANDA & NATHAN

George

Tell us about your most memorable anniversary.

(Nathan) To be honest, we haven’t really overtly celebrated our anniversary in a big way yet. We do a lot of celebrating our marriage and family throughout the year — take trips, gift giving, small tokens or actions.

I’m sure the longer we are married there may be something we do that is more official “anniversary” related.

(Amanda) Our first anniversary was our first outing after having our daughter, Ana Kate, who was a month old. It was dinner at Fat Daddy’s and a movie like we’ve done dozens of times, but it was a refreshing night of getting back to us even for just a short time.

When Jerry Maguire tells Dorothy that she completes him, he revealed a sincere sentiment. How does your spouse complete you?

(Nathan) With us, it’s all about our personalities. Amanda fits into the places where I am lacking and fully compliments me as a person. I feel I do the same for her.

I’m an introvert and hyper focused. She’s an extrovert that’s spontaneous. She’s better with detail planning and I see the big picture.

(Amanda) Nathan is the calm to my crazy, the logic to my drama, and the focus to my ADHD. He is also an introvert to my extrovert, which is definitely a key area we keep each other balanced. I keep him from being reclusive, and he makes me rest.

I wouldn’t call us opposites, necessarily, as we have many things in common, but we do complement each other where it’s important.

What is the recipe for an enduring marriage?

(Nathan) For me, it’s trust. I don’t just mean trust in regards to fidelity. I mean complete trust. Deep down to the bones. I 18

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~

FEBRUARY 2020

trust Amanda with my dirt. With my emotions. As a mother, a wife, a friend, she has all of me and I have all of her.

(Amanda) Communication. Mostly, I talk a lot. He never has to wonder what I’m thinking. But seriously, we talk everything out, from our celebrations to big and small decisions to giving each other criticism and our hard feelings. We keep everything on the table, we respect each other, and know that our opinions are valued from the other. Also, laughter is so important. Marriage and parenting is hard. You have to find the joy and silliness in all of it. We love to laugh together.

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10

Years MAY 29, 2010

STACY & JOSH

Kanady

Tell us about your most memorable anniversary.

(Josh) Pre-kids trip to Europe, celebrated with dinner in the Eiffel Tower.

(Stacy) For me, it was our fourth. Two weeks prior to that, I gave birth to our first baby.

She made us “Mommy” and “Daddy” and completely turned our lives around. We reflected on the years we’d had as a family of two and imagined what the future held for us as our family grew. It was a huge boost in our marriage as our hearts grew for our little one.

We leaned more on each other as we figured out (and failed) the parenting game.

When Jerry Maguire tells Dorothy that she completes him, he revealed a sincere sentiment. How does your spouse complete you?

(Josh) She’s so sweet and too good for me, she makes me constantly strive to be better.

(Stacy) Josh keeps me adventurous. He’s very spontaneous and is ready to pack up and go somewhere. We both tend to find happiness in the here and now. We’ve recently taken the Enneagram personality quiz and discovered that he’s a Type 8 and I’m a Type 7. This has opened our eyes on how to communicate with one another. While I like to look on the

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bright side of things, he helps me stay grounded and is more willing to face difficult situations. Josh has been and forever will be my rock.

What is the recipe for an enduring marriage?

(Josh) Compromise, admitting when you’re wrong, and keeping quiet when you’re right. I haven’t quite mastered the recipe yet, but getting flowers just because it’s Tuesday usually helps make up for it.

(Stacy) Faith, Love, Adaptability, Humility, Honesty, and Humor.

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

19

25

Years

APRIL 29, 1995

CHRIS & LYDIA

Zimmerman

Tell us about your most memorable anniversary.

(Chris/Lydia) It was our 15th Anniversary.

Lydia had always wanted to visit Natchez, MS, so we planned it and off we went. We stayed at the Dunleith Plantation Inn and toured several plantation homes during our visit. The history and sights of the area were incredible, but the cherry on top (according to Lydia) was “The Book of Us” that I had made for her that chronicled our life together up til then.

“It was the best gift (besides my Rainbow vacuum) he ever gave me. I loved it so much that I cried.” she says.

When Jerry Maguire tells Dorothy that she completes him, he revealed a sincere sentiment. How does your spouse complete you?

(Chris/Lydia) Easy, we’re opposites. I’m casual, she’s deliberate. I’m able to help her let her hair down and enjoy things in life she previously has not. In return, she’s helped me learn to not be so haphazard about things and has made me better as a result. We agree we’re opposites in most every way but we feel we balance out each others shortcomings rather well, and, thus, compliment or complete the other.

What is the recipe for an enduring marriage?

(Chris/Lydia) Our recipe: First, rank you priorities in life. Ours have always been The Lord, family, then the rest. We have a plaque on our wall that was given to us as a wedding gift that reads, “Marriage Takes Three. In homes where Christ is first, it’s obvious to see, that those unions really work, for marriage still takes three.” Secondly, as life becomes more and more hectic, always make time for your spouse and family.

Even if “date night” is running to Sonic for an ice cream or taking a drive without the kids, make a point of doing it at least once a month, if not more. Then last, communication. It is so important to talk with your spouse and listen to what they say. Work on becoming a better listener, and your marriage will only prosper.

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~

FEBRUARY 2020

www.kaspersclarksville.com

50

Years

AUGUST 29, 1969

JOY & MIKE

Miller

Tell us about your most memorable anniversary.

(Joy) There are several memorable anniversaries, but if I have to choose just one, I’ll say the last one. Our 50th was very special because both children and all their children were here with us to help us celebrate with many of our dear friends.

(Mike) Most memorable anniversary would probably be our last, our 50th. Our children were nice enough to host a party for us and invited some of our dear friends, some of which we had not seen in awhile. Great day, great friends, great kids, great wife.

Another anniversary that comes to mind is from years ago. I don’t even remember which one, but Joy and I both had been extremely busy. We had a meeting in Joplin that weekend. As we drove up the road, somewhere up just short of the Missouri line, the light went on for both of us about the same time — “hey, it’s our anniversary”.

Strange, some of the things we remember.

When Jerry Maguire tells Dorothy that she completes him, he revealed a sincere sentiment. How does your spouse complete you?

(Mike) I could never say enough kind things

We enjoy many of the same activities. We like watching volleyball, softball, basketball and baseball. We enjoy traveling together. We have fished several times in Alaska.

We’ve been to Europe, London, Canada, Brazil, the Virgin Islands, Mexico and many, many places in the United States.

We also share a strong faith and believe that faith has seen us through some major health issues in the past 11 years. I truly believe that Mike is a ‘walking miracle’.

about Joy. She truly is appropriately named

(Mike) Have fun in all that you do. And make sure it’s fun for both and not fun at your

and has been the “Joy” of my life for over 50

spouse’s expense. Do fun things together. Joy and I love to travel, love seeing and

years. I cannot imagine life without her.

doing new things together. We still have places that we haven’t been that we would

What is the recipe for an enduring marriage?

(Joy) I think the answer to both of the questions is the same. We like being together. We have a wonderful relationship in that we each have a unique sense of humor.

like to see and have places that we have been that we look forward to seeing again.

Have a Christ-centered marriage. Know that the Lord is in control and trust him in all issues. Much of our life has revolved around our church, related activities and Christian friends from all over.

Love and trust one another in every situation. No, you won’t always agree about every issue but learn to compromise always considering the other’s desires.

We laugh a lot — at ourselves, each other and

Be dependent on each other. Seems like in recent years, I’ve depended more on Joy

at the same things (most of the time). We

than vice-versa. On at least two separate occasions in recent years, I would have lost

also seem to weep about the same things.

my life had Joy not been there and reacted to the emergency.

FEBRUARY 2020

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

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COMMUNITY

Augsburg Fall Fest Proceeds presented to River Valley Christian Clinic and Augsburg Food Pantry Augsburg Fall Fest committee chairman Rusty Dorn presented a check to Diane Ragsdale of the Augsburg Food Pantry for $14,720.30 and a check to Don Guess of the River Valley Christian Clinic in Dardanelle for $14,720.30 at the Clinic on the evening of December 5, 2019. These two checks represent the proceeds of $29,440.61 from the 12th Annual Augsburg Fall Fest sponsored by Zion Lutheran Church on October 12. The 2019 festival was their most successful festival yet, bringing in over $5,000 more than the 2018 festival.

The presentation was made as the volunteers at the Christian Clinic ate dinner provided by members of Zion Lutheran Church.

Each year the festival proceeds are equally divided between the Christian Clinic and the Augsburg Food Pantry. As of this distribution of funds, Zion has contributed over $111,000 to the River Valley Christian Clinic and the same amount to the Augsburg Food Pantry.

The Augsburg Fall Fest committee would like to thank all of the festival sponsors, the people who attended, and the excellent group of volunteers, some from as far away as Iowa, California, and Hawaii, for their hard work to make the festival so successful.

Time Out for Tech 2020 scheduled for February 6 All high school seniors and their families are invited to Time Out for Tech 2020, which will be hosted by the Arkansas Tech University Office of Admissions on Thursday, February 6.

“Time Out for Tech provides prospective 22

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~

ATU students with a chance to learn more about the academic programs, student housing and campus life available on the Russellville campus,” said Jessica Brock, director of admissions at ATU. “The day is designed to be both informative and entertaining as we provide a glimpse of the supportive learning environment and varied opportunities that exist at our university.”

Time Out for Tech check-in and a registered student organization fair will start at 8:30 a.m. at Tucker Coliseum, followed by the opening session beginning at 9:30 a.m.

There will be a drawing during the opening session for three tuition scholarships to Arkansas Tech for the fall 2020 semester.

In order to win, individuals must be high school seniors and present.

Following the opening session, high school seniors and their families will have an opportunity to meet with faculty from the academic program that interests them the most.

Time Out for Tech will also offer campus tours, a chance to meet with representatives from student organizations and sessions with staff members from such campus entities as financial aid, athletics and fraternity and sorority life.

All high school seniors attending Time Out for Tech will receive a free T-shirt and a photo opportunity with campus ambassa-

FEBRUARY 2020

dor Jerry the Bulldog.

Advance registration is required for high school seniors planning to attend Time Out for Tech. Registration is available online at www.atu.edu/toft20.

For more information about Time Out for Tech or about applying to become a student at Arkansas Tech University, call (479) 968-0343.

ATU students investigate ways to engage with Russellville Downtown A collaboration between Main Street Russellville and the Arkansas Tech University Center for Community Engagement and Academic Outreach during the fall 2019 semester allowed eight ATU students to investigate ways in which their peers might become more aware of and involved in Russellville Downtown.

Senior Haylee Applegate of Jacksonville, junior Kara Dickens of Cedarville, senior Michael Jones of Cabot, junior Jacob Loomis of Bryant, senior Victoria Marchant of Russellville, senior Lorrel Passmore of Greenwood, freshman Grace Phillips of Salem and junior Kaitlyn Rankin of Perryville participated in the Interdisciplinary Project-Based Learning (IPBL) class. Danielle Housenick, executive director of Main Street Russellville, served as their instructor.

RUSSELLVILLE ANIMAL SHELTER

Featured Friends

By utilizing the Main Street America four-point approach of design, organization, promotion and economic vitality, the members of the class evaluated potential infrastructure improvements and activities in Russellville Downtown that might be feasible and attractive to ATU students.

“It awakened a child-like creativity,” said Marchant when asked about the class. “We don’t have room for that in many of our classes. It’s a lot of homework and tests.

Things are normally straightforward. Having the opportunity to approach something so open-ended with endless possibilities was unique and something that I cherished.”

Suggestions brought forth by the class included a park area in one of Russellville Downtown’s vacant alleys and more live

music at Depot Park during the academic year. Their suggestions were based upon data gathered through focus groups consisting of ATU students.

While implementation of the ideas would require more planning and resources, the class had an immediate impact on its participants.

Dickens plans to pursue an internship with Main Street Russellville to learn more about economic development and partnership building as components of her future career planning.

Loomis said the class heightened his interest in city planning. He has started looking for graduate schools that will allow him to study that topic.

Continued on pg. 25...

Peanut

This is Peanut. He’s a middle-aged Chihuahua-terrier mix who’s energetic beyond his years and loves attention. Peanut had an accident a while back that left him blind in one eye, but he’s still playful and would love to cuddle on a warm lap.

To learn more, or to adopt this month’s featured friend, please contact the Russellville Animal Shelter at (479) 968-1944.

Photos by MADISON REVES

Shannon Case, M.D., FACOG Obstetrics and Gynecology

Johnson Regional Medical Center is excited to welcome Dr. Shannon Case back to Clarksville.

She will begin practice at Clarksville Women’s Center this month. Dr. Case brings with her over 10 years of experience in Women’s Health.

To Schedule Your Appointment with Dr. Case, call (479) 754-5337 today.

MEDICAL CENTER SURGERY CLINIC

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2 Medicine Drive, Clarksville, AR • www.JRMC.com FEBRUARY 2020

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

23

T H E R IVE R VA L L EY C I T I Z E N

Bonds... revenue bonds Story by KRISTIN FOSTER

IN THE FIRST FOUR MONTHS OF 2019 the Arkansas legislature passed over 1,000 new laws. Amid the flurry of committee meetings and heated debates between lawmakers, a bill amending revenue bonds doesn’t get much attention. This particular bill was passed on April 2, 2019 and signed into law by Governor Hutchinson three days later. Once signed into law the bill became known as Act 703 which is about to get its first test run in Pope County. Beginning February 17, the Pope County electorate will cast their vote on a bond initiative that will authorize the quorum court to undertake future capital improvement projects through casino revenue bonds.

This is a complex initiative that has taken a winding road to the ballot. To make it easier to understand, let's break this issue down into two parts- the bond and the projects.

THE PROJECTS Voters will be asked to consider five proposed projects individually. The Criminal Justice Complex will be first on the ballot and is a top priority for the county. This $58.8 million project will encompass a 400-bed detention facility, two circuit courtrooms, and facilities for the office of emergency management, 911, and the Pope County Coroner. Next is the $8.4 million bond to finance the construction of a new Russellville Branch of the Pope County Library. The third project is a $2.1 million Wellness Improvement Bond that will include a gymnasium with an indoor walking track annex to the Pope County Senior Activity Center.

Fourth is a Public Safety Improvement Bond that would include a Russellville Fire Department sub-station, related equipment, and police vehicles for the Russellville Police Department. The bond amount for public safety improvements would be a maximum of $3.57 million. The fifth bond to consider is for $7.35

million to fund the construction of a multi-purpose event center at the Pope County Fairgrounds. If all projects are approved the total price tag comes in at $80.22 million.

THE BOND Typically revenue bonds are repaid through the project they are funding. For example, a bond may be undertaken to extend sewer service to residential customers who would then pay a higher cost for their sewer service until the bond has been settled. Act 703 makes a change to this rule by allowing the four Arkansas counties with licensed casinos to secure revenue bonds that would be repaid with gaming revenue, rather than through traditional tax revenue streams. It is important to note that bonds can only be used for capital improvement projects (CIP) which may include new construction, facility upgrades, land acquisition, equipment purchases, and a host of other expenses focused on the development of infrastructure of a public nature. Certain expenses cannot be included in the CIP budget, requiring payment through other revenue streams.

The excluded costs are generally thought of as the day-to-day operating expenses. Payroll, utilities, and supplies are all excluded from CIP budgets.

Casino gaming revenue for Pope County is expected to come in at approximately $4.375 million per year once operations are in full swing. The Legends Casino property currently sits just outside city limits in an unincorporated part of the county, meaning that all gaming revenue would be issued to the county government. If the property is annexed into Russellville city limits prior to bonding, approximately $3 million of the expected gaming revenue would be directed to the city, with the remaining funding going to Pope County. The proposed bond would allow Pope County government to promise up to 100%

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~

FEBRUARY 2020

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of their portion of gaming revenue to repay bond debt. Keep in mind that a bond would not be issued until the casino has been open and operational for at least six months. Voter approval of a project also does not guarantee that it will actually be undertaken. Approval merely gives government officials the authority to take out a loan in the future if they believe it is appropriate at that time.

phil wright

The idea of a casino coming to our community has been the most controversial issue in recent memory. The question for voters is no longer do you want a casino.

That question has been settled. Now we have to decide if we’re ready to decide how to spend the next 20 years of revenue before the casino has opened. l ...cont. from page 23 “Working creatively as a team was definitely an interesting aspect of the class,” said Jones. “Being able to bounce ideas off one another and receiving feedback was important. Working together, creatively, to solve this problem was enlightening.”

Marchant pointed out that the variety of students in the class made that creativity possible. Of the eight participants, there were four political science majors, one psychology major, one fisheries and wildlife science major, one cultural and geospatial studies major and one criminal justice major.

“It’s such a unique experience to get to work with students outside your discipline,” said Marchant. “It crushes creativity when you are with people who are like-minded.

Being around people who have such different points of view and different opinions was a really cool experience.”

Dr. Julie Mikles-Schluterman, professor of sociology, serves as director of the ATU Center for Community Engagement and Academic Outreach.

Organizations that would like to engage with ATU students on community enrichment projects may call (479) 498-6050 or send e-mail to jmiklesschluterman@atu. edu for more information.

Learn more about the ATU Center for Community Engagement and Academic Outreach at www.atu.edu/ipbl.

Learn more about Main Street Russellville at www.mainstreetrussellville.com. l FEBRUARY 2020

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

25

THE FALCON’S NEST (479) 754-9732 400 OAK COURT CLARKSVILLE

What you see is what you get Photos by LIZ CHRISMAN Story by JOHNNY CARROL SAIN

26

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~

SIMPLE IS OFTEN UNDERRATED. It’s easy to get caught up in fancy presentations and complexities in taste. My favorite part of the process in researching (read as “eating”) food for Valley Vittles columns are the often pretentious conversations with Liz about just what specific seasonings or cooking methods were used by chefs to arrive at the expressions of flavor in every bite. We’re looking for a surprise, a unique take that we may not have experienced in other interpretations of the dish.

But there’s something to be said for food that tastes exactly like you expect it to taste, too. It’s comforting.

At the Falcon’s Nest (named for the Special Olympics mascot), simplicity is

FEBRUARY 2020

part of the menu. It’s soups, salads, sandwiches, and desserts with a daily special of combos and a daily dose of delectability.

We sampled a wide array of The Falcon’s Nest sandwiches and desserts, but I was especially smitten with the chicken/ bacon/ranch grilled cheese sandwich accompanied by potato salad and polished off with vintage brownie cake.

The sandwich is simply savory, cheesy, comfort-food supremacy. The potato salad is full of traditional flavors with a subtle nod to innovative twists of taste. The vintage brownie cake… well, it’s just a forkful of heaven with every bite.

What you see is what you get at The Falcon’s Nest. And what you get is fresh, scrumptious food at an incredible value. l

FEBRUARY 2020

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

27

CO U N T E RTO P C R E AT I O N S

Healthy doesn’t mean bland…

Story by LYDIA ZIMMERMAN, Food Editor Photos by LIZ CHRISMAN

H

Banana Apple Nut Muffins

aving worked in a hospital for the last 26 years, I have repeatedly heard the phrase “heart healthy diet.”

Most people cringe when they hear that term, as they think of eating tasteless cardboard.

But it doesn’t have to be so.

Since February is national “Heart Healthy” month, I’ve collected some flavorful recipes that are also somewhat healthier than your average (much loved) Southern fried chicken and potatoes.

So eat well and take care of that heart at the same time.

And as always, enjoy!

HEART HEALTHY BANANA APPLE NUT MUFFINS ABOUT Magazine Featured Recipe ~ February 2020

1.5 c whole grain oats, ground in a blender 1 c whole wheat flour 1/2 tsp salt substitute 1/2 c baking soda 2 tsp baking powder 1 T cinnamon, ground 1 tsp ginger, ground 3 small overripe bananas 1 c unsweetened apple sauce 1/2 c honey

28

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~

3/4 c milk (2%) 2 tsp vanilla extract 3 egg whites (or egg substitute) 1 c walnuts (chopped) 1 c grated apple 1/2 c whole grain oats

FEBRUARY 2020

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Place oats in a blender and chop until they are very fine crumb consistency. Pour into a large mixing bowl and add wheat flour. Add salt substitute, baking soda, baking powder and spices. Mix all dry ingredients well.

Place bananas, apple sauce, honey, and milk in a blender. Blend together until mixture in smooth. In a small bowl separate egg whites from yolks and add vanilla extract.

Pour banana and egg mixtures into the dry ingredients and mix well.

Add walnuts and grated apple to mixture and stir until combined.

Fill muffin cups 3/4 way full with mix and sprinkle with oats.

Bake in oven for 20 minutes or until when toothpick is inserted it comes out clean. Makes 8 large muffins or 12 small muffins.

SHRIMP AND TURKEY MEATBALL STEW 10 oz pkg cooked, peeled and deveined shrimp 4 T olive oil, divided 1/2 c chopped onion 1/2 c chopped green pepper 2 tsp ground white pepper, divided 4 tsp minced garlic, divided 4 c water 1 bag PicSweet steerable mixed vegetables 1 can small sliced mushrooms 1 can black eyed peas (optional) 1 can cubed potatoes (optional) 1 lb ground lean turkey 1 pkg low sodium brown gravy mix 1 pkg ranch dip mix 1 T (or to taste) Tony Cachere’s No Salt Added seasoning Thaw shrimp according to package directions and then cut their tails off and set aside.

In a large skillet heat 2 T olive oil. Add onion, green pepper, minced garlic and 1 tsp ground white pepper to skillet. Saute for 3-4 minutes over medium heat, stirring frequently. Add shrimp to the skillet and continue to sauté for an additional 4-5 minutes. Set aside.

In a large stock pot bring 4 c water to a boil.

Shrimp and Turkey Meatball Stew

While water is heating, add 2 T additional olive oil to skillet used for vegetables and shrimp and heat. While oil is heating add 2 tsp minced garlic and 1 tsp ground white pepper to ground turkey.

Make marble sized meatballs and add to hot oil. Cook meatballs until they are browned. Remove from skillet and place on paper towels to drain.

After water in pot has come to a boil whisk in brown gravy and ranch dip mixes. Allow mixture to thicken slightly, then add vegetables, shrimp and meatballs. Turn heat to low and simmer 25-30 minutes, stirring frequently. Add additional water to desired consistency if mixture to thick.

Serve with whole wheat crackers or long grain brown rice. >>

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

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BLUEBERRY KUCHEN 1 1/2 c sifted whole wheat flour 1/2 tsp salt substitute 2 1/2 tsp baking powder 3/4 c sugar or granulated stevia 2 egg whites 3/4 c milk (2%) 1/4 c Land O Lakes No cholesterol margarine, melted 1 tsp lemon extract 2 c fresh blueberries 2 tsp cinnamon

te mushrooms and green onions until tender. Stir in spinach and pecans until spinach is wilted. Remove from heat; keep warm.

Sprinkle chicken with seasoning. Grill, covered, on an oiled grill rack over medium heat or broil 4 in. from heat on a greased broiler pan until a thermometer reads 165°, 4-5 minutes per side. Top with cheese; grill or broil until cheese is melted. To serve, top with mushroom mixture.

Recipe courtesy of tasteofhome.com

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Combined dry ingredients and sift well.

In a medium sized mixing bowl beat egg whites, margarine and lemon extract. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients, mix well.

Pour into a greased 8X8-in pan. Sprinkle with blueberries and cinnamon.

Bake at 350 degrees for 45-50 minutes.

Serve warm with whipped topping.

LOW SODIUM AMERICAN GOULASH 1 lb Ground Beef 1 T Olive Oil 1 T Paprika 1 tsp Ground Black Pepper 4 cloves Garlic - diced 1 T Red Wine vinegar 1 Medium Onion - chopped 1 Bell Pepper - chopped 2 c Tomatoes - diced no salt added if canned 16 oz Tomato Sauce (no salt added if canned) 1 c Shredded Swiss Cheese 1 lb Elbow Macaroni or Medium Shells lowest sodium you can find

SPINACH AND MUSHROOM SMOTHERED CHICKEN 1-1/2 tsp olive oil 1-3/4 c sliced fresh mushrooms 3 green onions, sliced 3 c fresh baby spinach 2 T chopped pecans 4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves (4 oz each) 1/2 tsp rotisserie chicken seasoning 2 slices reduced-fat provolone cheese, halved Preheat grill or broiler. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat; sau-

In a large saute pan or pot, add the oil, ground beef, garlic, onion and peppers and cook over medium high heat until the beef is browned and the onions and peppers are turning translucent.

Add the paprika, black pepper, red wine vinegar, tomatoes, and sauce and let simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

While the meat mixture is simmering, cook

LIFE INSURANCE

the pasta to an almost al dente status, then drain the pasta and add to the meat and sauce to finish cooking for 5 more minutes.

Serve into bowls and top with some shredded cheese and serve.

Recipe courtesy of hackingsalt.com CAJUN-CREOLE SMOTHERED STEAK 2 tsp salt-free Cajun-Creole seasoning blend 2 eye-of-round steaks (about 4 oz each), all visible fat discarded 2 tsp olive oil 1/2 14.5-oz can no-salt-added diced tomatoes, undrained (about 1 c) 1/4 c water 1/2 medium green bell pepper (chopped) 1/2 medium rib of celery, cut into 1/2-in slices 2 T chopped onion 1 medium garlic clove (minced) 1/4 tsp salt Sprinkle the seasoning blend over both sides of the steaks.

In a medium skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat, swirling to coat the bottom. Cook the steaks for 2 minutes on each side, or until browned. Transfer to a plate.

In the same skillet, stir together the tomatoes with liquid, water, bell pepper, celery, onion, garlic, and salt. Add the steaks.

Spoon the sauce over the steaks. Bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat and simmer for 1 hour 15 minutes, or until tender.

Recipe courtesy of recipes.heath.org

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~

FEBRUARY 2020

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Tues-Fri, 10-5 & Sat 9:30-3:30 109 Warehouse Row Russellville, AR

HEALTHY GREEN PINA COLADA SMOOTHIE 1 frozen banana 1/2 cup frozen pineapple 1/2 cup frozen mango 1 cup coconut milk or milk of your choice 1 cup baby spinach juice from 1/2 a lime 2 tbsp toasted coconut for garnish

for 3 minutes. Add the jalapeño, ginger, and garlic and cook, tossing occasionally, until the vegetables are just tender, 2 to 3 minutes more.

Add the cooked rice to the skillet and toss to combine. Serve with cilantro and lime wedges, if desired.

Recipe courtesy of womensday.com

PINEAPPLE AND HAM FRIED RICE 1 c long-grain white rice 1 T vegetable oil 6 oz thick-cut sliced ham (trim off any fat) 1 lb pineapple 1 large red pepper 1 medium Red Onion 1 jalapeño 1 piece fresh ginger 2 clove garlic chopped fresh cilantro Lime wedges

POT ROAST RATATOUILLE & PASTA olive oil spray 1 1/2 lb eye-of-round roast (all visible fat discarded) 1/2 tsp salt-free, all-purpose seasoning blend 1/4 tsp pepper 10.75 oz canned tomato puree 10 oz eggplant (chopped) 2 medium zucchini (sliced) 5 medium Italian plum (Roma) tomatoes (chopped) 1 large onion (chopped) 2 medium ribs of celery, sliced 1 tsp oregano or Italian seasoning, crumbled 1 medium garlic clove (minced) 1 medium dried bay leaf 1/4 tsp dried basil (crumbled) 8 oz dried, whole-grain pasta

Cook the rice according to package directions. Meanwhile, heat the oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the ham and cook, tossing occasionally, until beginning to brown, about 3 minutes. Add the pineapple and cook until beginning to brown around the edges, 3 to 4 minutes.

Add the pepper and cook, tossing, for 2 minutes. Add the onion and cook, tossing,

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly spray a Dutch oven with olive oil spray. Sprinkle the roast with the seasoning blend and pepper.

Heat the Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the roast for 2 to 3 minutes on each side.

Stir in the remaining ingredients except the pasta. Bake, covered, for about 2 hours, or until the roast is very tender when

Combine all ingredients in the blender and blend until completely smooth. Top with toasted coconut if desired!

Recipe courtesy of mynourishedhome. com

We Our Patients

tested with a fork.

Shortly before the roast is done, prepare the pasta using the package directions, omitting the salt. Drain well in a colander.

Transfer the roast to a cutting board. Cover with aluminum foil and let stand for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing very thinly across the grain, then slicing into thin strips. Discard the bay leaf from the sauce. Spoon the pasta onto plates. Arrange the roast slices on the pasta. Top with the sauce.

Recipe courtesy of recipes.heart.org EASY HOMEMADE DARK CHOCOLATE 1/2 c coconut oil 1 c unprocessed 100% cocoa powder or cacao powder 4 T honey or more for taste 1 tsp pure vanilla extract pinch of sea salt Begin by melting the coconut oil in a small pot over the stove top on a low heat.

Once melted remove the oil from the heat and add the cocoa powder, honey, vanilla, sea salt and any additional flavors you want to add.

Whisk everything completely until there are no remaining lumps of cocoa powder and the honey has dissolved into the chocolate mixture.

Pour the chocolate into silicone molds or a lined baking pan and transfer to the freezer for at least 30 minutes or in the fridge for at least an hour. Once they’ve hardened pop them out of the molds and enjoy.

Store in the fridge.

Recipe courtesy of asaucykitchen.com

Neylon S. Pilkington, M.D. | Robin Kirby, M.D. | Mallory Cranor, APRN

220 N. Sidney, Russellville | www.rpa.clinic | 479.498.0858 | Open 8am to 5pm Monday thru Friday | Saturday 9 am to 11pm FEBRUARY 2020

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

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COMMUNITY COMMERCE

Rose Drug Pharmacy, Gifts & More Story and photos by HANNAH BUTLER

SINCE 1966, Rose Drug of Russellville has been a pharmacy and wellness classes and multi-dose pill packaging are all available. gift shop that focuses on providing a personal touch for the com- With its drive-through window for pick-up or orders with curbmunity. The business puts an emphasis on reminders for customers side service is also provided. to receive vaccinations, or sending messages on customer’s birth- According to Margie, the added services has helped her busidays because the little thing matter ness exponentially. If there are cars wait “We try to offer personal service,” said ing in the drive-through, employees are Margie Smith of Rose Drug. able to go out to deliver medicine for conRose Drug Pharmacy, Gifts & More Although it’s focused on personalvenience. “We have a unique situation,” (479) 968-1323 ization, Rose Drug is also offers conveshe said. “None of the chains can offer 3103 W. Main Place nience. Services like medical synchrothis. There are different services that our Russellville, AR nization, delivery within the city limits, pharmacy does to make it a more pleasur-

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~

2731 S. Arkansas Ave, Russellville , AR | (479) 968-9732 • dwane.ahrens@gmail.com FEBRUARY 2020

able experience and more personalized,” she said. For another example, Rose Drug can also provide anti-bitter flavoring for some medicines to mask some medicines’ flavor.

Margie also takes in interest in education customers about pharmaceuticals, which can lead to better health and money saved.

Along with the improvements in the pharmacy, Rose Drug has added to its gift section, offering a special emphasis on both bridal and baby registry.

“We can assist new brides and new mothers with products and services,” Margie says. “In the baby section, we try to provide new and useful products for the moms to have. Some things are trendy but there are some items that they need that we can guide them with.” Sheets and changing table covers will soon be added to the selection.

Rose Drug has more than gifts for brides-to-be and new mothers. It also has dining, home decor, and kitchen products.

And all of the products in the gift shop are placed on display to show how to make place items within a home. Plus, every gift is wrapped with a handmade bow.

Margie’s goal is for everyone to feel comfortable and welcomed.“We want more people to be aware of who we are and where we are,” she says. “When people register with us and shop here, it’s helping a local business,” Margie says. “You’re supporting your local retailer by buying that wedding gift.” l

The first sign of a

healthy yard.

INDOOR POOL

OPEN YEAR ROUND INDOOR POOL MEMBERSHIPS

Indoor pool only (does not include waterpark) Single Day Use $6 00 1 Month $25 00 3 Month $60 00 6 Month $90 00 9 Month $125 00 12 Month $150 00 College Students (Sept-May) $99 00 WEEKEND SPECIAL (5pm Fri- 5pm Sun, all year long) $4 00

2019 INDOOR/OUTDOOR SEASON PASS #1

2019 INDOOR/OUTDOOR SEASON PASS #3

Valid through August 11, 2019 $95 00 (use both facilities, summer only) Family of 3 - Valid through August 11, 2019 $250 00 ($85 per additional person)

FAMILY MEMBERSHIPS Family of 3 / Must live in same household / children under 18

1 mo $60 00 $20 per additional person 6 mo $210 00 $70 per additional person 9 mo $310 00 $90 per additional person 12 mo $380 00 $112 per additional person

Members with 12 month Indoor Pool Memberships, valid through August 11, 2019 $55 00 (use both facilities, summer only)

PARTY ROOM (Kitchenette) $15 per hour PARTY ROOM (Courtyard) $30 per hour

Membership prices/fees cannot be refunded or transferred Pool scheduling/hours will change periodically Pool will be closed for public swimming during swim meets, inclement weather and maintenance Notices will be posted whenever possible but could happen without notice Membership fees/prices will not change due to closings

PRIVATE PARTY (Kitchenette only) $300 PRIVATE PARTY (Kitchenette and Courtyard) $350

(Room access only during normal business hours, does not include fee/access into pool area Anyone entering pool deck area must pay )

Only available Saturday or Sunday, 5:30pm to 8:30pm

ALL-INCLUSIVE INDOOR PARTIES starting at $100

479-754-4100

1611 Oakland St., Clarksville Clarksville Arkansas Parks and Recreation or Clarksville Aquatic Park

www.ClarksvilleAquaticCenter.com

FREE ESTIMATES 2909 South Arkansas

Locally Owned and Operated!

FEBRUARY 2020

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

33

in the Garden

Precious Pollinators Story by JILL MCSHEEHY Photo by JOHNNY CARROL SAIN

THE EASTERN SUN WARMED MY BACK. Droplets glistened on adolescent tomato leaves. Melodies of the birds tickled my ears. Ordinarily, I would have soaked in the iconic morning every gardener looks forward to, steaming coffee in hand.

But this was no ordinary morning. And I needed both hands free.

I made a beeline (pun intended, for reasons you’ll soon discover) for the sunshine-colored squash blossoms in their glory. Examining each one, I identified a

few female blossoms by the baby fruit at their base. Then my eyes rested on the male blossoms, much more numerous and obvious. I chose one of those and snapped off the flower. Peeling away the yellow petals, I found the female blossom and rubbed pollen from the male anther onto the female stigma. After repeating this action on

each female blossom and tossing the remaining male flower to my begging hens, I straightened up and narrowed my eyes at the honeybee hive just twenty feet away.

Where were the bees? Oh, I saw the honeybees from our new hive in a frenzy of springtime activity, but nary a one could be found in my vegetable garden.

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From a Single Room to Your Entire Home or Office For appointments or consultations contact (479) 890-1715 or email kirtm1101@hotmail.com 34

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~

FEBRUARY 2020

3115 E. MAIN STREET, RUSSELLVILLE • (479) 967-5575

Here I was in their stead, hand-pollinating my squash. Every morning. For a week.

Thankfully, this unwanted morning ritual only lasted a week. Native bumblebees and a few rogue honeybees finally showed up a week late -- better late than never.

But after I posted a video of hand-pollination on Instagram, messages flooded my inbox from people who had similar problems. Many weren’t as lucky as I was and had to hand-pollinate most of the season.

Where were the bees?

Most of us know about the decline in the European honeybee population -- commonly referred to as colony collapse disorder -- but most people do not realize that native bees are the more efficient pollinators and the ones our crops and flowering plants rely more heavily upon.

Most native bees, unlike the European honeybee, make their nests in the ground.

Others nest in wood or dead plant stems.

But when we douse our lawns with fertilizers and herbicides, or when we make a clean sweep of our flowerbeds and gardens at the end of the year, we threaten the very ones we depend on for pollination.

We also add to the stress on native bees by clearing out “weeds” whose flowers native bees depend on for pollen and nectar, like goldenrods and dandelions.

Personally, I had no idea of the complexity behind the decline of pollinators and insects in general until I read Dr. Douglas Tallamy’s new book, Nature’s Best Hope. I naively thought if I just planted more flowers I’d attract more bees.

In a sense, I wasn’t wrong. But the solution to the declining insect population isn’t so simple. It takes an understanding of the

wider ecosystem and how different parts of the food web fit together. Admittedly, this is an understanding I lack, as does most of the general population without an ecology background or education.

But that’s no excuse.

We can’t afford to relegate an issue that affects every human on this planet to the academics. Each of us can do something in our own backyards.

What can we do, then? I’m going to borrow from the research-backed wisdom of Dr. Tallamy: 1. Shrink the lawn. Lawns do not support local ecosystems. Replace a portion of your lawn with native trees (like oaks), shrubs (like blueberries), flowers (like sunflowers), and groundcovers (like coreopsis).

2. Remove invasive, non-native plants, and replace them with native species. Non-native plants support fewer insects (91% fewer according to one study). These are the insects that support our birds, and native bees rely more heavily on native flowering plants. For example, when you replace burning bush with blueberry bushes, you support native insects, get similar striking fall foliage, and can harvest berries as a bonus!

4. Do not spray or fertilize. Herbicides, pesticides, and fertilizers can harm insects or the surrounding environment, not to mention other environmental fallout and human health repercussions. Plus, the “weeds” we kill like dandelions and clover are plants our bees depend on.

Until last season when I spent a week of mornings hand-pollinating my squash, I didn’t realize the true issue of our declining insect populations. Thankfully, my problem righted itself, and I saw more native bees throughout the season. But you can bet I will be taking steps to support those bees in 2020 -- not just for my own yard, garden, and squash, but for the small piece of the world I steward.

You can read more from Dr. Doug Tallamy in his book, Nature’s Best Hope, releasing February 4, 2020. I was honored to read an advanced copy, and this book ranks among the top few worldview-changing books I have ever read. l

3. Plant for specialist pollinators. Many native bees are “specialists,” requiring specific flowering plants, but generalist pollinators like honeybees also benefit. Some of the best plants for these specialist pollinators include perennial sunflowers, goldenrods, native willows, asters, and blueberries.

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The Scarlet Locke Hair Lounge has space available for an experienced and fun sylist with clientele. Booth space is $85.00 per week.

We are in the heart of downtown Russellville and the only salon with a full beverage bar.

Call 479-747-3111 for more information.

FEBRUARY 2020

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

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Story & Photo by JOHNNY CARROL SAIN

A JOURNAL of our RURAL & NATURAL HERITAGE

Sunfish SUNFISH… Memories of sunburst colors that put most tropical fish to shame still spring to my mind whenever I hear the word “sunfish.” While they’re a blast on the fly rod or ultralight, they don’t trigger the dump of adrenaline that a bass does. This is more an indictment of my calloused system than the fish, but it is what it is. The sunfish plucking tiny poppers from the scummed surface of a local farm pond elicit a deliberate reaction from me.

It wasn’t always like this.

There was a time, decades ago, that an orange-bellied bull bluegill would usher in the shakes. A twitching cork float animated by an unseen force and then pulled under was the greatest thrill of my young life. I recall the leathery hands of mom’s dad, my Poppy, holding the dorsal fin flat as my chubby fingers traced around the copper sides and midnight blue gill flap before we threw the fish into a potato sack or strung it up on a nylon cord.

I remember Poppy calling some of the disk-shaped fish, what I would later learn are the Lepomis genus — the bluegills, redears, longears, pumpkinseeds and green sunfish — either “perch” or

36

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~

FEBRUARY 2020

“sunfish.” There are not now and have never been real perch in any Arkansas creek or farm pond around my home region, but “perch” was the generic name he gave to any fish in the sunfish family that was not a bass. Poppy didn’t know that his perch were part of the sunfish family and that bass were part of that family as well. Sunfish was a name he reserved for only the most vivid of perches.

Back from the pond, Poppy would fill a five-gallon bucket with chilly well water and my job was to empty the potato sack or

“I recall the leathery hands of mom’s dad, my Poppy, holding the dorsal fin flat as my chubby fingers traced around the copper sides and midnight blue gill flap before we threw the fish into a potato sack or strung it up on a nylon cord.”

“I rarely eat any fish I catch.

And in skipping out on this once vital component of fishing, the reason we started fishing, I’ve missed out on experiences and emotions from an array of perspectives — the nostalgic, the primal and, last but not least, the delectable.” stringer into that bucket while he gathered a bowl, a knife and a towel. The late morning sun reflecting off of glistening scales and a clean knife as Poppy scraped and sliced was mesmerizing. And then there was the meal.

We ate our “perch” whole with the skin on and the tail fin intact. The tail fin was my favorite part of the fish. And, no matter how many fish I ate, I saved the tail fins for last. It was a greasy, salty dessert, a taste and texture that I’ve heard described as the best potato chip in the world. If memory serves, though, the description is wrong. I have not tasted anything — and I’ve scraped the bottom on many a bag of chips — that came close to tasting like fried perch tail.

I haven’t eaten many sunfish in the years since. As a product of the catch-and-release generation of anglers, I rarely eat any fish I catch. And in skipping out on this once vital component of fishing, the reason we started fishing, I’ve missed out on experiences and emotions from an array of perspectives — the nostalgic, the primal and, last but not least, the delectable.

But that will be changing and soon.

The bluegill, and a scrappy hybrid of bluegill and green sunfish, have been my teachers on the fly rod much like Poppy’s perch were teachers of the angling world as a whole when I held my

first cane pole. Often willing and always feisty, the little sunfishes are there to show me what a bite looks and feels like, and when I should set the hook. Saviors also, they offer action when it seems that every bass in the water has lockjaw. And just the other day I decided that dinner would be added to their list of titles.

Nine palm-sized bluegill could not resist the fly kicking up spurts of muddy pond bottom through their nests, and nine bluegill rode home in the cooler. I sharpened the knife and reached into a wriggling mass of spiny dorsal fins to pull a glistening male bluegill from the water. His dark and prominent gill flap absorbed the muted rays filtering through an overcast sky but hints of peach and rose reflected from his breast. Luminescent teal highlighted his chin. I think he would qualify as a sunfish for Poppy. l

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Winter Sale ...and many, many more!

2320 West Main, Rsvl (479) 968-6464 Monday-Saturday 9:30-6:00 FEBRUARY 2020

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

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COMMUNITY LEADERS

...

Jimmy STREETT AGE: 41 OCCUPATION: Attorney at Streett Law Firm HOMETOWN: Born here at Saint Mary’s, which was

actually founded by my Grandfather, Martin Heidgen when my mother, Sue Streett’s, family relocated here from Chicago in the mid 1900’s.

FAMILY: Married to Elizabeth Streett with

three kids: Grace — 10, Charlie — 8, and Susie — 6. College at Loyola University New Orleans.

Took a year off and volunteered through Americorp with the Northern Cheyenne and Crow Reservations in Eastern Montana, and then went back to Law School at Vanderbilt. Moved back to Russellville to practice law with my father Alex Streett at the Streett Law Firm and did so for the past 12 years until he passed away earlier this year. He was the most honorable man and most talented lawyer I have ever known.

1

What is your favorite book and why?

Sophie’s World. I was begrudgingly forced to read it before starting my first year of college

by a friend of my family’s who was a professor at Loyola. It is a great “cliff notes” covering the history of philosophy written in novel form. Really changed the way I looked at things in a positive way.

2

Providing free quality instruction and support to literacyProviding free quality instruction & seeking adults. adults support to literacy-seeking Dog or cat? Why?

Cats. If I said anything else I would have to answer to my oldest daughter.

River Valley Adult Learning Alliance Photo by LIZ CHRISMAN 38

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~

FEBRUARY 2020

(479) 477-3910

rivervalleyliteracycouncil@gmail.com

3

What do you think is the most positive aspect of living in the River Valley?

The sense of true community. Even when you see division here it is a product of the truism that the closer you are as a family the more you argue with your siblings.

Everything here is truly personal and everyone here is truly invested in each other.

Even on our most divisive days I wouldn’t want it any other way.

4

What’s something no one would ever guess about you?

I am probably the least outgoing member of my family.

5

What is your favorite music genre and artist? Why? Love it all.

www.lizchrisman.com

6

What do you nerd out on?

9

Pizza, tacos, cheeseburger, or fried chicken? Any particular reason why?

I love the outdoors — hiking, hunting, fishing. There is no better place in the world than the Arkansas River Valley.

When its done right, fried chicken hands down.

7

10

What is your favorite quote?

Could be from an inspirational person, could be be an original.

If you could change one thing about the River Valley, what would it be?

I am a big “it’s not what you have but what you do with it” kind of person. I wouldn’t change a thing.

8

Wherever you go there you are...

Novel and Unique.

There’s something for everyone at the Art Walk

Where is the one location in the River Valley you would tell a firsttime visitor that they must go?

Make the rounds in Russellville Downtown to get a feel for the diversity of the people here (which I think is the best thing by far), and then hit the river and mountains in the fall to see what a uniquely spectacular part of the world we are blessed to call home.

Join us from 6-9pm: March 6th June 5th September 4th December 4th

For more info call (479) 967-1437

commercial art & portraiture

“pacific northwest peonies” FEBRUARY 2020

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

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