ABOUT | September 2020

A SESQUICENTENNIAL CELEBRATION

September 2020 • www.aboutrvmag.com

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

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September 2020 TABLE OF CONTENTS

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The river and the railroad Just south of Russellville, the warm olive currents of the Arkansas River curl through a channel chiseled by eons of water that is still slowly grinding at the river bed, altering the course millimeters at a time. Those waters have shaped the land and shaped the communities surrounding it. The river brought people to this region. The river is why Russellville, the city, is here today.

What is Russellville to you?

Powering life in the River Valley Arkansas Nuclear One has been powering Pope County and the state of Arkansas for decades. ANO strives to be a good neighbor to the Russellville and River Valley communities as a source of safe, clean, secure and reliable power.

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Valley Vittles: Russellville’s Finest A college town There’s a dam good reason Arkansas Tech University is located in Russellville. More than 110 years ago, virtually every municipality in the Arkansas River Valley threw its proverbial hat in the ring for the opportunity to host the school.

Several towns met the minimum requirements for land and finances asked for by the Board of Trustees of what was then known as the Second District Agricultural School.

Saving seeds, saving heritage 10 Things ABOUT: Richard Harris

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FEATURED MERCHANT Russellville School District |

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ABOUT THIS MONTH’S COVER This cover is the textbook definition of symbolic. I attempt to weave symbols in my photos frequently but this cover felt like the most obvious for the celebration of the 150th birthday of a place we all know and love. Those of us who had a hand in the creation of this official sesquicentennial mark, took account of all the symbols from the centennial (the cover of that celebration booklet is what the pin and coin are laying on) and honored the newest and longest lasting symbols of our area.

Russellville School District’s Athletic Department in conjunction with state guidelines handed downAthletic from theDepartment Arkansas Department of Health Russellville School District’s in conjunction with state will have newdown procedures in Arkansas place for this school year. guidelines handed from the Department of Health *Masks benew required in Cyclone Arena Stadium. willwill have procedures in place for and this Cyclone school year. *Masks will be required in Cyclone Arena and Cyclone Stadium. designated areas for seating as In order to comply with ADH directed by the ADHfor guidelines. guidelines outdoor designated areas seating as In order for to large comply withevents ADH there will for be large a limited number of directed by the ADH guidelines outdoor events Lawn chairs will beguidelines. permitted in ticketswill available each event. there be a to limited number of Lawn Cyclonechairs Stadium football will for be home permitted in tickets available to each event. games inStadium order to social Tickets will be pre sold for all home Cyclone for practice home football distancing. away RHS games in order to practice social and Tickets will be football pre sold games. for all home away RHS games.

Cyclone Stadium will close it’s gates and Tickets may befootball purchased through distancing. once theStadium allowedwill amount the Athletic closeofit’stickets gates Tickets may office. be purchased through Cyclone are sold. once the allowed amount of tickets Athletic the Band, Cheer,office.

Dance, and Football sold. information please contact For more parentsCheer, may purchase up Football to four are Band, Dance, and Athletic office, please 964.2411 or tickets RHSpurchase home football For more information contact parentsfor may up togames. four the 968.3151, information can also be the Athletic office, 964.2411 or tickets for RHS home games.

Football parents will football be given first found by visiting our website, www.

968.3151, information can also be option toparents purchase for first RHS Football willtickets be given rsdk12.net. found by visiting our website, www. away games. option to purchase tickets for RHS rsdk12.net. games. away Cyclone Arena, RJHS gymnasium, and RMSArena, gymnasium all have Cyclone RJHSwill gymnasium, and RMS gymnasium will all have 220 West 10th Street ■ Russellville, AR 72801 ■ 479.968.1306 ■ www.rsdk12.net 220 West 10th Street ■ Russellville, AR 72801 ■ 479.968.1306 ■ www.rsdk12.net

SEPTEMBER 2020

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EDITOR’S LETTER

A town like no other Since culture is directly derived from the physical features of a place, the culture of Russellville might be exactly what you’d expect from a city founded smack in the center of the most geographically and topographically diverse region in the state.

Russellville isn’t really in northwest Arkansas and it’s not really in central Arkansas. It’s not part of the Ozark Plateau, but it is bordered by bluff-lined mountains.

Russellville is a river town where the highlands meet the bottomlands. Two early names for the area now known as Russellville — Chactas Prairie and Cactus Flats — only add to the ambiguity.

This diversity of the land has constructed a unique heritage that’s not quite Southern, not quite Ozarkian, and not quite Midwestern. In short, it eludes any labels.

But who needs a label?

For 150 years now, the City of Russellville has grown in population, wealth, and influence while nestled into its own little corner of the state (physically and culturally) as one of Arkansas’ larger towns. It shares a niche with no other municipality.

A river town, a railroad town, an interstate town — Russellville sits at the crossroads that lead to everywhere else in the state.

If you want to get there, you’ll likely pass through Russellville.

Adding to the mix is a growing university, educating minds from across the nation and even the globe. Though the means of their transport has evolved over the last century and a half, new ideas, new people, and customs are still arriving daily in Russellville. And, though, the people of this community have held on to so much of who they once were — sometimes for the better and sometimes for the worse — perhaps within this constant of change is where their true identity lies.

Or maybe the city is best understood as a curious amalgam, like the land that surrounds it and upon which it is built.

It’s an odd combination of old timey charm and progressively progressive thinking.

Russellville has come a long way in 150 years— from a small river port to county seat to home of one the state’s premier institutions of higher learning to the home of Arkansas’ only nuclear power plant. Who knows what the next 150 will hold. But my bet is on that same steady growth in population, wealth, influence, and diversity all while still tethered to the best of those old values.

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley since 2006 A Publication of One14 Productions, Inc Vol. XV, Issue 8 – September 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.

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR OF EVENTS

September 2020

Find up-to-date information and future events @

www.aboutrvmag.com/events

With social distancing setting new parameters for our social lives, we present the September 2020 calendar of events you can attend and participate in online and otherwise utilizing social distancing guidelines. * Please confirm directly with the promoter to ensure event details have not changed.

Saturdays

— Dardanelle Farmers Market. Please practice social distancing.

Masks will be on-site and encouraged as well as hand sanitization. For more details about vendors or other restrictions, please visit the Dardanelle Farmers Market page on Facebook.

Saturdays & Tuesday evenings — Pope County Farmers Market.

Depot Park in downtown Russellville. The Saturday morning market runs from 8 a.m – 1 p.m. and the Tuesday evening market runs from 4-7 p.m.. For more information, or to get in touch with coordinators, please follow the Pope County Farmers Market page on Facebook.

4th — Downtown Art Walk in downtown Russellville. For more information, contact 967-1437.

12th

— Children’s Fishing Derby at Pleasant View Park in Russellville. For more information, contact 968-2098.

24th - 27th — Hawk Week at Mount Magazine State Park. Many animals mi-

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Th

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grate southward over Mount Magazine in September. Join a park interpreter and other bird enthusiasts to watch from high cliffs of Cameron Bluff for birds of prey flying by, sometimes at eye level. Help identify and tally hawks, falcons, eagles, and other migrating wildlife. Meet at the gazebo parking area on Cameron Bluff Overlook Drive (watch for a white Arkansas State Park van). For more information, contact 9638502.

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27 28 29 30 1 2 3 *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.

26th

— Great Arkansas Cleanup and National Public Lands Day from 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. at Petit Jean State Park. Help keep Petit Jean State Park clean and litter free. Join park staff for a few hours of litter pickup and be rewarded with a free cookout lunch.

Following lunch there will be a door prize giveaway for participants. For more information, contact 501-727-5441.

26th

— Great Arkansas Cleanup and National Public Lands Day 8 a.m. - noon at Lake Dardanelle State Park. National Public Lands Day unites people across the nation as they care for the public lands

which are used for recreation, education, and enjoyment. Join Lake Dardanelle State Park to volunteer for this NPLD cleanup, held in conjunction with the Great Arkansas Cleanup. Gather a group and volunteer to help keep Russellville clean and green.

Please contact Lake Dardanelle State Park to register your group. Supplies will be provided at no cost, and a free lunch for volunteers and activities will follow the cleanup. For more information, contact 967-5516.

Proud to be a part of the Russellville family.

As our community joins together to celebrate this 150 year milestone, we’re reminded how fortunate we are to be a part of this extended family.

At AMCARE, family is caring. Our local staff is prepared to help your loved one with safety supervision, daily health reminders, groceries and appointments, or personal care.

Call us today at (479) 880-1112 for your FREE ASSESSMENT. 914 West ‘B’ Street, Russellville AR | www.youramcare.com SEPTEMBER 2020

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

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The growth of Russellville and the River Valley was directly linked to the paths of commerce

ust south of Russellville, the warm olive currents of the Arkansas River curl through a channel chiseled by eons of water that is still slowly grinding at the river bed, altering the course millimeters at a time. Those waters have shaped the land and shaped the communities surrounding it. The river brought people to this region. The river is why Russellville, the city, is here today.

As Russellville celebrates its 150th anniversary, it’s important to remember the community didn’t just spring up on its own. The gradual progression of Euro-American settlers who travelled into what is now Arkansas first crossed the Mississippi River, many near Arkansas Post, and followed the Arkansas River northwest.

The Arkansas River was the first path to commerce in Arkansas, and every community in every county through which the river coursed benefited from it. None in the five-county region we consider the Arkansas River Valley benefitted more than Russellville, but the economies of surrounding small towns — especially in Pope, Yell, and Johnson counties — were integral to the Russellville economy as well.

When the railroad came to Russellville, the city’s status as commercial hub of the Arkansas River Valley was solidified. And as Russellville grew, so did opportunity throughout the region.

The history of commerce in Russellville could never be contained within its city limits or even the county borders. Commerce in Russellville has always encompassed more than the town and its citizens. The economic history of Russellville is, in many ways, the economic history of the River Valley.

A half-century ago, the Pope County Historical Society rallied the town together in celebration, culminating in the publication of one collective narrative entitled Russellville Centennial, 1870-1970: Arrows to Atoms. As a whole it is a story of hearty pride and collective hope. The various articles cite an abundance of what we today refer to as “wins,” from the robustness of local fiduciary entities to multiple Fortune 500 companies manufacturing their products nearby. The general tone and photos of grinning supporters tells of their faith in several newly implemented decisions – difficult decisions – which continued the trajectory of growth in the River Valley.

Thanks to both the Pope and Yell County historical societies, we have a wealth of other reports from a variety of no-less enthusiastic residents down through history. From on-thescene reporters to aging settlers’ children, all were anxious to speak of the abundance they had discovered within Arkansas’ boundaries.

Story by SALLY LAWRENCE. | Photos by LIZ CHRISMAN Supporting photos provided by: RUSSELLVILLE TOURISM AND VISITORS CENTER, KURT JONES PHOTOGRAPHY AND PETERS FAMILY LIVING.

SEPTEMBER 2020

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A Tamed Country

According to this narrative published in Dardanelle on July 4th, 1876, pioneers arrived to find some parts of the land already tamed by their Native American predecessors.

In about the year 1790 the natives had “cleared little patches of land in common, which they cultivated separately – each one’s share or cut, being designated by cornerstones, some of which are to be seen in their places in the neighborhood of Danville…The principal meat used by them was wild game, which existed here then in great abundance, including the elk and buffalo, long since driven from this part of the country. The writer has seen many of their skulls and horns lying in the hills and mountains where they were slain. Peaches and plums appear to have been their favorite fruits, and many of their old plum orchards are yet to be seen in this country.

They also raised a few hogs in and about Dardanelle, and in the summer months they had great abundance of melons.”

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Little Rock News

Another voice of the time comes to us from early publications that labored mostly at their own cost to report the local news and opinion. The first of these was in Little Rock, a village which quickly gained in popularity after the creation of the Arkansas Territory in 1819.

Although the first capital was at the Arkansas Post – east of what is today Pine Bluff – pioneers quickly swarmed across the land, including many a soldier who took the government up on an offer to claim a piece of the territory for themselves, in recognition of their service in the War of 1812.

According to the online Encyclopedia of Arkansas, “settlers moved into regions north, west, and southwest of the Post” so much so that just two years on, the capital moved up-river. Tidbits from the Arkansas Gazette provide a glimpse into what sorts of commercial activities merited column space in those early days, along with the seasonal challenges with which the pioneers contended.

SEPTEMBER 2020

1822, March 19th: The citizens of Little Rock were very agreeably surprised, on Saturday morning last, by a salute from the Steam-boat Eagle, Capt. Morris, which arrived here in 51 running hours from Arkansas, and 17 days from New-Orleans, bound to Dwight the Cherokee Missionary establishment on the Arkansas. She stopped here about an hour, then proceeded on her voyage.

This is the first steam-boat that has ever ascended the Arkansas to this place, and reflects much credit on Capt. Morris, for his enterprise. We are happy to learn from Capt. M that he encountered no material difficulty on his passage thus far, although the river is very low; at a higher stage, he thinks this river will be as well adapted to steam-boat navigation as any in the world.

The arrival of the Eagle opens a new and interesting era in the navigation and commerce of the Arkansas. Judging from the increasing industry of our citizens, and the efforts at present making for the raising of cotton, and other staple commodities,

The river brought people to this region. The river is why Russellville, the city, is here today.

it needs no inspiration to predict, that the time is not far distant, when steam-boats will be no less a novelty on this noble river, than they are at this time on the other principal tributaries of the Mississippi.

April 16th: Between 250 and 400 bales of Cotton were shipped from Hemstead (SIC) county to New-Orleans during last season. Commerce on the Red river is becoming so important that citizens of Hemstead county have commenced the building of a steam-boat there to employ in the trade of that county.

November 19th: On account of heavy rains mails are long delayed. One post-rider carried a heavy mail on his shoulders for thirty miles because he could not get his horse through. There is probably not a post-route in the United States more difficult to perform than that from the Post of Arkansas to the Chickasaw Bluffs, at Memphis, and yet it is the most important mail we have. Emigration to various parts of this Territory, appears to be pouring in at this time, with greater rapidity than at any former period.

December 3rd: The first snow of the season. On Sunday morning the mercury fell to 9°.

1823, February 4th: The present winter has been by far the most severe of any we have experienced in this Territory. The thermometer reached 11° below zero.

February 25th: We hear from almost every quarter of vast numbers of cattle that have died during the late extreme cold weather.

May 13th: One of the most violent tornadoes we ever witnessed, passed over this place Wednesday night last. The rain fell in torrents, accompanied by heavy peals of thunder, and a constant blaze of lightning.

The wind blew a hurricane, tearing up by the roots an almost incredible number of the largest trees of the forest.

A boat belonging to the Dwight Mission (Cherokee Nation) arrived at Little Rock on Saturday last with supplies. >>

SEPTEMBER 2020

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Early Pioneer Days

Mr. Boles, who declined to give his own name in this story, tells of his arrival in Dardanelle, then a part of Pope County.

My father, John Boles, moved into this country in February, 1842, and though I was quite a small boy then, my recollection of the condition of the country is quite fresh on my mind. The roads were few, crooked and narrow, so narrow the branches of the undergrowth would lap over them and brush you in the face as you passed...There were no bridges until 1850, (and) when the small streams were swollen, travel was suspended.

Arkansas’ Industrial Revolution

Water may have controlled the community at the time, but the community quickly learned how to control the water. Boles tells us the first water mill was built in 1839 on Spring Creek, six miles north of Danville.

Another on Dutch Creek in 1843, a third on Gaffords Creek the following year and a fourth in Chickalah in 1845. These were followed by many more as technology was shared across homesteads.

There were just three steam mills in existence up to the Civil War, the first two built in 1858 in Delaware township (now Logan County), and the third in Chickalah in 1859 or ’60.

The cotton gin transformed cotton production across the south, and Arkansas wasn’t to be left behind in this innovation either. The first in the county was built in 1838, then a second just three miles west of Dardanelle in 1840, and a third the same year. Another was built east of Bluffton in 1843, and the fourth in Dardanelle not long after.

The opportunities were here, and the increased regularity of river travel enabled visits to work awhile and sample the territory before making the more arduous and expensive journey with cattle and possessions in tow. Then with the Civil War tearing up the country like a monster storm, many of the younger generation were already uprooted and open to visiting a variety of destinations before putting down roots. An 1869 visit from John T. Torrence’s nephew for just this reason offered the opportunity to send this message back

Serving Russellville Since 1971 Ray’s Body Shop was established in 1971 by Raymond and June Sorrells in a two bay gas station. While it changed locations twice and name once, it never strayed from its core philosophy: Always perform top quality work and provide great customer service!

(479) 968-3991 | 1903 SOUTH ARKANSAS 14

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SEPTEMBER 2020

home to Gaston, North Carolina: Uncle John says, why dont Edwin leave that old, poor, sickly Country. He says You could live a great deal easier, enjoy better health, and in every respect be benefited by the move. Our Country is looking up very fast. Our Rail Road is progressing finely, and in 18 months, it will be completed from L.R. this far (75 miles) and in two years the whole distance from the Rock to Ft Smith.

The Company are offering $2.oo per day for hands to work on the road, hands can get from $15 to $20 per month for common farm work, and $1.00 per cwt for picking cotton and their board, or $1.25 if they furnish themselves, and a great many can pick 200 lbs per day.

Railroad Days

The coming of the railroad was longplanned but interrupted by the Civil War. When peace returned, the railroad would not be stopped, but continued along previously-discussed lines…with one exception. A member of the Shinn family provides this memory in his book, Pioneers and Makers of Arkansas.

Dover in 1853 was the most prominent town between Little Rock and Fort Smith, and in that little town was held in that year the first railroad meeting ever held in the State bearing on the Little Rock & Fort Smith Railroad. Men from all parts of the State attended that meeting, and out of it came the Little Rock & Fort Smith Railway.

The belief at the time was that Dover, then the seat of Pope County, would become the next railroad stop after Atkins.

Yet around the same time as that first meet-

ing, Jacob Shinn was situating himself as an influencer, being considered a hero of the Mexican War and having taken over the first store in Russellville from his uncles Silas and Madison. After the Civil War, he campaigned against the hated Federal militia that had been sent to restore peace, but which instead contributed to the murderous wrath that tainted the county. Shinn gained much popularity after railing publicly against them, bringing threats upon himself to the point that he was forced to escape for a time to Little Rock. When the dust cleared and the railroad once again pushed its way into the river valley, it was toward Shinn’s donated land a block north of his store.

No matter where they lived or which side they were on politically, the community enthusiastically welcomed the first trains churning through the valley. This was the technology that opened wide the gates of civilization. Russellville grew by leaps and bounds, and the nearby cities gleaned riches of their own. This bit of prose testifies to local enthusiasm for the technology of that age.

The Little Rock & Fort Smith Railroad came to Pope County in 1872-73. It has stations in this county at Atkins, Russellville, and several other convenient points. This railway has done much to develop the county and advance its best interests. It has had an influence upon settlements, the growth of towns, and in removing the center of trade and the seat of justice from the interior of the county to the Arkansas Valley. Russellville is on this line of railroad and has one of the largest and most fertile districts in Arkansas or any other State tributary to her, which promises shortly to be further opened up by a line of railway from Kansas City to Hot Sprints, thus crossing the State transversely to the Little Rock & Fort Smith Railroad, and making Russellville the distributing point for an immense area of as rich and fertile territory as presents its upturned face to the beams of Phoebus.

In 1895, a mere twenty years after the first steam locomotive whistled its arrival, we have this fly-on-the-wall description from a reporter at the Russellville Democrat: Our little city assumed quite a metropolitan air on Saturday last. Our streets were not only crowded but fairly jammed with wagons and people…The stores of the city,

with their four to twenty clerks were crowded to their utmost, and everything and everybody seemed to be full of the rush and bustle which characterizes city life. The reporter, while taking in this sight, invariably looked around for the passing trolley car, and up for the electric light wires (which were not there.) All Russellville lacks is water works, electric lights and street cars, then where will you find a city like us. Truly this is a great and growing town.

Let everybody open their hearts and pocket books…and we need not be afraid

but what the lights, waterworks and the people will come. Everybody put a shoulder to the wheel and push.

Yes, the transport, cotton, manufacturing, lights, water, and various sources of energy arrived in their time. They came by the grace of location, technology, and a persistent passion. We owe a debt of gratitude not only to Jacob Shinn, but others like him who brought about the developments that made us what we are today.

There are more stories to come; we only need people to tell them. l

MAKING EVERY YEAR EVEN

PHOTO: STEVE NEWBY

Better.

Celebrating 150 Years of Russellville At First Security, we are proud to be part of such a storied community. From local hangouts to time-honored traditions, this is a place people are happy to call home – including us. Congratulations to everyone who has invested in Russellville.

We look forward to serving you for all the years to come.

Member FDIC

SEPTEMBER 2020

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What is Russellv

“It’s near Russellville.”

T

hat’s one of the descriptors I’ve always used when telling people where my tiny hometown of Atkins is located on the map. As the largest city between Little Rock and Fort Smith, Russellville is well-known within Arkansas and sometimes even outside of the state.

Actually, though, I’ve enjoyed a Russellville address twice in my life.

The first time was from ages 2-4 when my parents rented an apartment off of 7T, now known as South Knoxville Avenue. Some of my memories there involve walking to Fourth Street with Mom and little sister Lori for a frozen treat at the Dairy Queen.

The second time I was a Russellville resident was just after Christine and I were married. Our first home was a cheap apartment near Tech. We lived there until I could not take the “city life” anymore and we fled to a dirt-road address in Yell County. Curiously, we again live on a dirt road in Yell County, but that’s another story.

Growing up, Russellville was where we went when we went to “town.”

It was where Dad worked and Mom bought our school clothes. It was where my parents banked and where we could get a pizza on Friday night before rollerskating. It was where we went on dates and just to hang with friends. Heck, back in my high-school garage-band days, we even wrote a song called “Highway 64” about heading west on the two-lane road that led to everything we couldn’t find in Atkins.

I’ve worked here. I’ve played here. I went to college here. And there are so many other people across the River Valley who share my experience of Russellville as the center for so many facets of our life yet never (or rarely) actually lived in Russellville. So while my time as a citizen of the city hasn’t amounted to much, Russellville has been, and continues to be, a large component of who I am.

Though, I know the town pretty well as a barely-sometimes Russellvillian and full-time River Valley resident, my knowledge is lacking in comparison to its citizens. There’s no way for me understand what it’s like to really be a part of the community of Russellville. And it’s tough to have a true grasp of the past and a vision for the future of a city you know only as a visitor.

So we’ve asked a few of those real Russellville folks — some lifers, some relatively newcomers, and some in-between — to tell us in their own words about the town they call home. You can find those essays spaced throughout this special issue of ABOUT the River Valley magazine. Each experience is both unique and similar, showcasing a personal perspective on the shared experience of life in Russellville.

Johnny Carrol Sain 16

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SEPTEMBER 2020

ville to you?

Photos by

SEPTEMBER 2020

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LIZ CHRISMAN

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EVE RY DAY L I F E

Never far from home Story by SARAH CLOWER Illustration by CLIFF THOMAS

LAST SUMMER WHILE TRAVELING IN EUROPE, my companion and I popped into a London cafe, ordered a couple of cappuccinos, and sat at an outdoor bistro table to enjoy our coffees and the view. My senses were whirling with the sights and sounds of a new city, and the wide variety of accents being spoken — all sorts of British accents (which I absolutely adore) and a lot of others, the origins harder to discern.

While obtaining a degree in English, I took a number of linguistics courses.

Languages and dialects have always been

fascinating to me, and I developed an uncanny ability to distinguish where a person is from based on their English accent, especially accents belonging to people from the United States. And I can even detect regional accents in Arkansans.

So while we were sitting at the cafe in London, I heard an American couple talking at the table behind ours. Not only was it American, it was distinctly Arkansan.

I turned around to peer at them. The pair looked to be in their 60s, appeared to be husband and wife, and the woman smiled slightly when she caught my eye. I smiled

back and turned in my seat so that I could speak with them.

“Hi! I couldn’t help but overhear you talking. Are y’all from Arkansas by any chance?” I asked.

The man and woman glanced at each other and then both smiled broadly.

“Why yes, we are,” the man said.

“Are you from Arkansas as well?” the woman asked. “I noticed the southern drawl and you said ‘y’all’.”

“I am! Actually, we both are,” I said, nodding to my companion. “Are y’all by any chance from Mcgehee, Arkansas?”

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~

SEPTEMBER 2020

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The couple looked at each other again.

“Why, yes! We are? How did you guess?” the woman asked, surprised.

“I could just tell from your accent. That region has a distinct dialect. I’m from Russellville.”

“That’s where we went to college! I was a Wonder Boy!” the man said. “My name is John, and this is Judy,” he said, motioning to his wife.

“Nice to meet you! I’m Sarah, and this is Paul.”

“Do you still live in Russellville?” Judy asked.

“Yes ma’am.”

“We haven’t been back to Russellville in years. Our daughters both went to Tech, just like us, but I bet we haven’t been there in 15 years. After our youngest daughter graduated, John retired and we just travel around now, mostly. We still have our house in Mcgehee, but it just seems so empty now,” Judy told me.

“Is Whatta-Burger still there?” John asked, with a concerned tone.

“It sure is!” I assured him.

“Oh good! That place has the best milkshakes. That’s where I took Judy on our first anniversary,” he said, with a dreamy look.

“What about Taco Villa? That cheese dip is hands down the best ever,” Judy quipped.

“Yes, it sure is.”

“No way, Stoby’s had the best cheese dip,” John argued. “Is Stoby’s still there?”

Welcome!

“Yes, sir!”

“What about C and D drugstore? I used to love to order a sandwich and browse in the store while I was waiting. They always had the best gifts and cute knick knacks.”

“Yes, it sure is. It’s actually just a few doors down from my salon,” I said, and told them all about the progress and resurgence of our downtown district. They were very impressed by all I told them.

“What about Leonard’s? I swear you can walk into that store and you just step back in time. And Judy wouldn’t complain when I wanted to go there because she would look at their purses. Whoever thought to put purses and kitchen stuff in a hardware store is a genius!” Bob laughed.

“And what about that cigar store? I think they had snakes and fish in there too, if I remember right.”

“Yes, Davis Smoke Shop and Pet Store.

Still there too!” I told them.

“And that diner that you can get breakfast or lunch any time of the day?”

“Old South? Yes it’s still there as well.”

They asked about some more restaurants, more stores, some had closed long ago, others were still in business.

We chatted a few more minutes, exchanged email addresses in case we wanted to keep in touch, and John and Judy went on their way.

I sipped my cappuccino and smiled to myself. There are some things that will always be iconic about Russellville, the

things that even people who hadn’t visited in years will always remember.

And that no matter how far from home you stray, there will always be things that will pull your heartstrings back to your favorite places. l

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SEPTEMBER 2020

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

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POWERING LIFE IN THE RIVER VALLEY Nuclear One continues long record of secure, reliable, emissions-free generation.

Story by TAYLOR KENDRICK | Photos by LIZ CHRISMAN

A

rkansas Nuclear One has been powering Pope County and the state of Arkansas for decades. ANO strives to be a good neighbor to the Russellville and River Valley communities as a source of safe, clean, secure and reliable power. The station currently employs more than 1,100 full-time nuclear professionals with an annual payroll of about $84 million. In addition, hundreds of baseline contractors are employed to assist in daily plant activities each year and hundreds of long-term contract personnel assist in completing major site projects.

The facility has a significant economic impact, both as a strong work place and as a source of community grants and volunteers. Its carbon-free electricity powers a clean, healthy environment.

The site is home to two pressurized water reactors. ANO Unit 1 began commercial operations Dec. 19, 1974, followed less than six years later

by Unit 2, which began commercial operations March 26, 1980. For more than 40 years, the station has provided low cost power to customers in Arkansas, including the River Valley. The two units at ANO have enough capacity to supply most of the power used by Entergy Arkansas commercial and residential customers. The two units

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generate enough power to meet approximately 56 percent of the total energy demand of Entergy Arkansas’ 700,000 customers.

Entergy and its predecessor companies have served Arkansas customers for more than 100 years.

The utility serves more than 700,000 customers in 63 counties. Entergy companies have approximately 3,500 employees in Arkansas, and approximately 1,400 Entergy retirees live in Arkansas.

In addition to electricity, ANO also generates a significant positive economic impact in the River Valley. Entergy remains one of the area's premiere employers and attracts highly-skilled, well compensated workers who live and invest in the community.

One of Entergy's core values is a commitment to communities, and ANO employees maintain a strong presence in Russellville and the surrounding Arkansas River Valley area. Each year, grants totaling more than $100,000 are awarded to local non-profit organizations, and employees partner with Entergy Corporation to donate in excess of $230,000 to the River Valley United Way for distribution to its partner agencies.

Arkansas Nuclear One History The Arkansas Nuclear One power plant, located a few miles west of Russellville in Pope County, is the state’s only operational nuclear power plant.

Entergy Arkansas, Inc., owns and operates it. ANO is one of six nuclear sites, with eight reactors, owned and operated by Entergy Corporation. In addition, Entergy provides management services to another reactor owned by the Nebraska Public Power District.

In the 1950s and 1960s, nuclear power was deemed to be a clean and efficient source of electricity, and nuclear power plants began to be constructed nationwide. Arkansas’s first nuclear reactor, ANO Unit 1 brought the state into the nuclear age of power. Later, Unit 1 was joined by ANO Unit 2. Bechtel Power engineered both units. Both are pressurized light water reactors. >> SEPTEMBER 2020

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

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The Babcock & Wilcox Company constructed the ANO 1 reactor, and Westinghouse developed the generator. When the unit went online, it was listed with a capacity of 836 megawatts (MWe) of electrical output but was upgraded to 846 MWe. At the end of 2003, the unit was operating at 91.2 percent capacity and generated nearly 6.8 million kilowatt hours of energy. ANO 1’s current license allows the plant to continue operations through May 20, 2034.

Combustion Engineering developed the ANO 2 reactor, and General Electric built the generator. When the unit went online, it was rated 858 MWe. It later was upgraded in capacity to 930 MWe. As of 2008, the unit was running at 83 percent capacity,

generation more than 6.1 million kilowatt hours of energy. In 2008, ANO 2 was averaging 92 percent of capacity, ranking it among the world’s highest in capacity utilization. Its 2008 output was 8 million kilowatt hours. The license for ANO 1 was to expire in 2014, and the license for ANO 2 was to expire in 2018, but both units have been approved for a 20-year extension by the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission.

The most notable feature on the 1,100-acre site is the 447-foot hyperbolic cooling tower, visible for miles. The plant uses water from the 34,300-acre Lake Dardanelle (also known as Dardanelle Reservoir) for its cooling units. Lake water never touches the nuclear reactors and remains clean.

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~

479.880.2005 SEPTEMBER 2020

Electrifying the Economy In addition to electricity, ANO continuously generates a significant positive economic impact in the River Valley.

Entergy remains one of the area’s premier employers and attracts highly skilled, talented and well-trained workers who live and invest in the community.

During a typical refueling and maintenance outage, about 1,000 additional workers – including hundreds of local workers – are hired to assist plant employees complete required maintenance activities.

Many workers travel to the area and are patrons of local hotels, restaurants and stores for up to a month or more during a given outage.

Economic gains are also realized through the annual purchase of materials, services and fuel from more than 175 Arkansas companies totaling well over $10 million.

The plant pays about $9 million in state and local taxes, which helps sustain the community and public schools.

Nuclear power market According to some United States estimates, Arkansas has ranked 19th in nuclear capacity and 20th in nuclear power generation. Currently, 45 percent of electricity in Arkansas is produced through coal and 19 percent from nuclear energy. The rest was contributed by natural gas (29 percent), hydroelectric (5 percent) and others forms.

Most of the reactors in the U.S. are more than 30 years old. Yet the country continued to rely more on nuclear power with an increase from 251 billion KWh in 1980 to 809 billion KWh just 30 years later.

To maintain the momentum, the NRC has concentrated on more efficient utilization of the existing capacity through proper maintenance and safety systems. This is being achieved by renewing the licenses at the existing nuclear plants. >>

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Over a Century of Service ~ 1916-2020

SEPTEMBER 2020

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

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By 2009, the U.S. NRC had extended the licenses of 59 reactors – more than half of all reactors in the US. Licenses for most reactors are expected to be renewed in the next 60 years.

This might prompt owners to invest in upgrade of their plants during the next 30 to 40 years.

Environmental Impact Generating electricity with nuclear energy prevents the emission of pollutants such as sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) and greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide (CO2) associated with burning fossil fuels.

According to 2018 data, environmental emissions avoided due to nuclear power plant operation in Arkansas included 9,505 short tons of sulfur dioxide, 6,240 short tons of nitrogen oxide and 7.9 million metric tons of CO2.

Emissions of SO2 lead to the formation of acid rain. NOx is a key precursor of both ground-level ozone and smog. Greenhouse gases like CO2 contribute to global warming.

Commitment to community Entergy and the employees of Arkansas Nuclear One have an unwavering commitment to help the communities where we serve. Each year, grants totaling as much as $100,000 are awarded to local nonprofit organizations, while employees’ partner with Entergy Corporation to donate in excess of $200,000 to the River Valley United Way for distribution to its partner agencies.

Various employee groups give their time and efforts to the local community as well. For instance, the ANO Women in Nuclear chapter has supported the Summer Food for Kids program in addition to sponsoring foster children from the Angel Tree program at Christmas time.

ANO employees enjoy educating school groups, leading scout troops, judging science fairs, coaching sports teams and being active in religious organizations and non-profit organizations. Many also serve on various community committees and boards dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in the River Valley. Countless

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hours are donated each year by employees who live and raise families in the community and have a vested interest in seeing their neighbors thrive.

2019 Entergy Community Grants & Support Entergy and ANO have supported the local community with charitable grants, not including direct donations from employees and volunteer time. Direct charitable grants have been awarded this year to the following organizations to assist in important community work: • Equestrian Zone Riding for a Reason • Dover Elementary School • Arkansas Center for Music Education • Boys and Girls Club of the River Valley • Arkansas Tech University • Russellville Junior High School • University of Arkansas Foundation • Dover High School • River Valley Christian Clinic • Russellville Development Foundation • River Valley Veterans Association • Oakland Heights Elementary • London Elementary School • River Valley child advocacy

• • • •

The Russ Buss Moreland Fire Department University of Arkansas Community College Superintendent of Dover public schools

Entergy Corporation (NYSE: ETR) is an integrated energy company engaged primarily in electric power production and retail distribution operations. Entergy owns and operates power plants with approximately 30,000 megawatts of electric generating capacity, including 9,000 megawatts of nuclear power. Entergy delivers electricity to 2.9 million utility customers in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas. Entergy has annual revenues of $11 billion and approximately 13,600 employees. l

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Omar Clemons

A

s Russellville celebrates its 150-year history, I can only reflect upon my nearly 30-year history with the city. My earliest memories are from moving here in grade school.

The talk of the town back then was Corliss Williamson — could we win a state championship with him leading our team, and would he play his college ball on the “Hill”? Too young for water-cooler talk, Russellville High school basketball games were the place to be on a Friday night in the early 90s. Williamson helped change the perception that Russellville did not welcome or accept blacks in its community. This was an unfortunate misperception. From my perspective, although there were and still are elements of racism from some, the Russellville community had grown from the era before my time, during the civil rights movement.

Russellville has continued to grow and offer opportunity. From great schools and teachers to great industrial opportunities, small business, banking, and our church communities. Russellville High School’s new basketball facility can rival many small college arenas. The addition of the Center for the Arts building and changes to the classrooms not only promote an integrated and progressive learning environment but also safe classroom set26

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~

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tings. Not to mention the building of a new middle school and a new junior high school, both comparable to tops in the state. This is all conducive to our kids getting the best education, the most opportunities. In conjunction with the career center (in which I took part of the medical professionals program) and Arkansas Tech, one of the premier universities in the state, Russellville’s combined educational systems have set a standard of opportunity and will add to the rich history of our town.

Small businesses like Feltner’s Whattaburger, Brown’s catfish, the former Ellen’s and Helen’s, Taco Villa, Old South restaurant, and many others of past and present have thrived in Russellville.

They’ve all added to the tasteful history of our hometown. Places like Maxx Nutrition gym, Parkway Cleaners, Parkway Dental, and Joshua’s Fine Jewelry are current indications that local-owned small businesses have a place to thrive in the heart of the River Valley. Large mainstays like Entergy’s nuclear plant, ConAgra Brands, Tyson Foods, and Firestone, among many others, have provided good paying jobs for the 30 years I’ve been here.

All of these things we have in common make us more than a collection of people. It makes us a community. All differences set aside.

Danielle Housenick

I

have a confession – I am not a Russellville native. My Pittsburgh accent betrays me every time I speak. My husband, two daughters, and I have lived in Russellville for over 10 years.

About two years ago, I accepted the position of executive director for Main Street Russellville. The job has only increased my love for Russellville.

It’s easy to learn about the history of Russellville – the railroad, the fire of 1906. These events shaped the stories that make Russellville what it is today. It is more difficult to look around and take stock of present-day Russellville. The trains still run through town and many of our historic buildings still stand. So what has changed in the last 150 years?

In 1927, Russellville recorded a population of 6,612 people according to the city directory. Today Russellville is home to almost 30,000 people. Even as the trains continue to run and the buildings stand, the people grow and change, which isn’t always easy but is vital to the future of our city.

Russellville Downtown is a perfect example of the passion that lives in Russellville. In the past few years, downtown has undergone a wave of preservation. Today we see buildings that were in

danger of collapse under restoration, public art is beginning to appear, and new businesses continue to spring up. The story of Russellville continues to evolve every day, and all because the people who live here and love this place overcome the challenges we face.

150 years from now, Russellville will probably look very different. Who knows what the architecture or transportation of tomorrow will look like? I definitely don’t know, but I can say with confidence the future of Russellville depends on the people of our city. It is not enough for us to simply dream or even plan for the future. Sure, dreams and plans are a good place to start, but that is all they are – a beginning. We need to continue writing our story, to invest in our future, get our hands dirty and do the actual work to grow our city.

In December of 1895, the Courier-Democrat described Russellville as, “a great and growing town.” Gone are the days of dirt roads and horses parked on Main Street, but Russellville is still “great and growing” and so are the people of Russellville. We may not know what the future of Russellville looks like, but I am confident that 150 years from now Russellville will continue to be “a great and growing town.”

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COMMUNITY

A fall semester unlike any other begins at Arkansas Tech University Katherine Smith was among the first students to greet the 111th session of Arkansas Tech University.

She sat in a corner at Baswell Techionery before 8 a.m. Wednesday, proudly wearing her Jerry the Bulldog T-shirt and contemplating the first day of a fall semester that will be far from routine due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

“It’s definitely not the norm,” said Smith.

“It’s an added challenge. Before we could freely roam and talk with friends. You have to think about everything that you’re going to do. I’m excited to take on this task. I’ve waited for a long time to get here, and for me it’s been difficult. I’m focusing on going forward even with all this happening.

Do the best you can with what you have.”

A product of Houston in Perry County, Smith believes the grit and determination that allowed her to make it this far will serve her well at ATU. “I really feel that I have my own motivation to get up and go,” said Smith, who is majoring in criminal justice and criminology. “Not just in the morning, but the whole day.”

Compassion is another word that Smith

is focusing on at the outset of the 2020-21 academic year.

“The faculty are learning about online learning just as much as we are as students,” said Smith. “We have to be patient with them. We have to consider what they are going through.”

As of the beginning of the fall 2020 semester, 28.5 percent of ATU classes on the Russellville campus are online, 24.7 percent are face-to-face and 46.7 percent are a hybrid delivery method --- some online and some in-person.

Dr. Mike Bradley is one of the ATU faculty members adapting to that learning environment. An associate professor of recreation and park administration, Bradley is beginning his first year at Arkansas Tech.

“My emotions are mixed,” said Bradley as he sat in a lobby at Rothwell Hall and awaited his first class. “I’m excited to start a new semester. Everything is new, and I’m anxious to meet my students and more people across campus. It’s an interesting time

as far as COVID-19. I’ve noticed that a lot of people are doing what they’ve been asked to do in terms of wearing masks and keeping a good distance. I’m encouraged by how everything is going. Even now, everybody is excited to be here.”

Samyia Williams, an ATU sophomore from Little Rock, is among those glad to be back on campus.

“Honestly, I thought we were going to be at home with no face-to-face,” said Williams. “It was exciting that we got to come back. I like seeing new people and all of the changes to make sure everyone is safe. I don’t want to catch the virus or take it back home to my family. The online classes will be tough. It was a struggle last spring, but I got through it. I learned a lot about how to work online classes and I’m glad I learned what to do and how to do it.”

The ATU pandemic recovery plan for academics was developed by its back to school transition committee, chaired by Dr. Richard Schoephoerster, and its academic

2320 West Main, Russellville | (479) 968-6464 | Monday-Saturday 9:30-6:00 28

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~

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contingency planning group, chaired by Dr. Jeff Aulgur.

Schoephoerster is dean of the ATU Graduate College and provides oversight for the university’s research initiatives, while Aulgur serves as interim associate vice president for academic affairs, interim dean of the ATU College of eTech and head of the ATU Department of Professional Studies.

“I think we’ve done everything within reason that we could do,” said Aulgur as he walked the campus on the first morning of fall 2020. “Like any other institution, it’s going to be a challenge. It’s going to come down to the compliance of our university family with what’s required to keep everyone safe. It’s good to have the students back. I know what it means to be part of the university community and having a daughter who is a junior at the university, I also have a personal investment in safety for students and our faculty colleagues.

“We look to this day every year,” continued Aulgur. “I have no doubt that with the work faculty, academic affairs and all the support teams across the university put in this summer, we’re committed to providing the best experience we can. As we work through it and become more experienced, it will be seamless. It’s just going to take some time to adjust.”

Cuttin’ Loose Cuttin’ Loose is a group of quilting women who meet the first Thursday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at the Pope County Senior Activity Center in Russellville. The group is not an official quilting guild although many who come are also members of the local guild. The women share ideas, inspiration,

Save the Date E N G A G E M E N T S

List your engagement or wedding announcements in the pages of ABOUT the River Valley magazine at no charge. You can email yours to: editor@aboutrvmag.com or mail to: ABOUT Magazine, 220 East 4th Street, Russellville AR 72801. A phone number must be included for verification.

SEPTEMBER 2020

OCTOBER 2020

Haley Fossitt & Thomas Avery (5th)

Hayden Reeves & Braden Bennett (17th)

Michaela Finley & Drew Papasan (12th)

Janeth Arreguin & Helton Lawson (17th)

Shelby Gray & Marty McNally (19th)

Sydney Richardson & Aaron Dale (21st)

Emily Roberts & Doug Smith 919th)

Bethany Knight & Eric Manning (24th)

Josie Dixon & Jonathon Myers (20th)

Avigail Yanes & Jacob Phillips (24th)

Abbie Moore & Kent McCoy (27th)

Kaitlin Chandler & Devin Lamb (25th)

OCTOBER 2020

Kaitlyn Gregory & Josh Tanner (31st)

Sarah Langston & Hunter Jackson (2nd)

Courtney Miller & Adam Parish (31st)

Megan Ayres & Clay Moore (3rd)

NOVEMBER 2020

Kayla Farris & Clay Moore (3rd)

Heather Bramlett & Christopher Steuber

Summer Rasmussen & Bobby O’Donnell (3rd)

(14th)

Jordin Stinnett & Dillon Tribble (3rd)

Shelby Bryant & Corey Hottinger (21st)

Lyndsey Balentine &. Jerry Boriboun (10th)

DECEMBER 2020

Krissy Davis & Jacob White (10th) Carmen Meadows & Matt Quain (10th)

McKenzie DuVall & David Meeks (12th)

Denise Nicole Reis & David Joshua Renfroe (10th)

JANUARY 2021

Emily Hoelzeman & Gage DeSalvo (10th)

Andrea Vega & Tyler Griffin (8th)

and talents with each other. Show and tell is always part of evening. Some members also participate in the national Quilts of Valor project that provides quilts for veterans.

The group organizes quilting retreats, projects, challenges, and other fun needle/fiber arts activities throughout the year. Anyone with an interesting in quilting is welcome to attend. l

Coming to Downtown Russellville SEPTEMBER 1, 2020 ~ 115 WEST MAIN

Support Friendship by making your gift online at www.fccare.org or contacting Mike Hutchison at 501.336.5500 or hutchisonm@fccare.org SEPTEMBER 2020

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

Ballot initiative 3: make an informed decision Story by KRISTIN FOSTER

Unless struck down by the courts, ballot initiatives appear with only their popular name and ballot title, making an informed decision on complex issues challenging for most voters. This third installment on 2020 ballot initiatives will provide detailed information on Issue 3, a constitutional amendment referred by state lawmakers.

Issue 3: Changing the Ballot Initiative Process HJR1008: A constitutional amendment to amend the process for the submission, challenge, and approval of proposed initiated acts, constitutional amendments and referenda.

Arkansas is one of only 15 states that allow citizens to bring state laws and constitutional amendments directly to voters for approval. This style of direct democracy has been in place in Arkansas since 1910. Over the years, citizens have led campaigns to pass ethics reform packages, minimum wage increases, term limits, and a slew of other laws. Issue 3 is a complex piece of legislation that makes substantial changes to the ballot initiative process. There are two main aspects of the constitutional ballot initiative process that would be changed: the citizen led initiative & referendum process and the legislatively referred amendment process.

Let’s start with changes to the citizen led initiative process. The

first change is to create an earlier filing deadline. Currently ballot initiative petitions must be submitted to the Secretary of State no later than four months before the election. If Issue 3 is passed the deadline for filing would be moved up to January of the election year, cutting approximately six months from the signature collection period. Right now a minimum number of signatures must come from at least 15 counties in the state. Issue 3 would increase that to include a minimum number of signatures from at least 3/5ths of all Arkansas counties(or 45 out of 75 counties). A third change to the process would be to implement a deadline for legal challenges to the sufficiency of an initiative. Currently there is no deadline for these court challenges.

Finally the last change to the citizen led initiative process under Issue 3 is the elimination of the amendment process, more commonly referred to as the “cure period�. When an initiative sponsor submits petitions to the Secretary of State it is assumed that a certain number will be disqualified for reasons such as a smudged signature, incorrect date, or bad address. The cure period grants the sponsor an additional 30 days for signature collection, if they have submitted valid signatures equal to at least 75 percent of the required minimum.

Issue 3 also addresses some changes to the process by which the state legislature may refer issues to the ballot for voter consideration. During each legislative session, which happens in odd numbered years, state lawmakers may send up to three constitutional amendments to the ballot. They may also refer an additional amendment to change the salaries for the offices of Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Attorney General, Secretary of State, Treasurer of State, Commissioner of State Lands, Auditor of State and for members of the General Assembly. Currently in order to refer an amendment to the ballot, both chambers of the state legislature must approve the proposed amendment by a simple majority. If passed, Issue 3 would increase that requirement for approval to a three-fifths majority vote.

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Additionally Issue 3 would lower the required public notice for referred amendments. Right now the state is required to publish a notice of proposed amendments in at least one newspaper in each county, where a newspaper is published, for six months leading up to the general election. Issue 3 would reduce that requirement to only one public notice in each county.

Supporters of Issue 3 argue that these changes are necessary to protect the initiative process from out of state interest groups. Opponents have labeled Issue 3 as a “petition killer” due to the impact it would have on citizens wishing to bring initiatives to the ballot. Several groups have formed to oppose the amendment claiming it will cause more wealthy special interest groups and lobbyists to take over the process due to the high cost of gathering signatures statewide. Issue 3 is currently the subject of a pending lawsuit that challenges the ballot title created by the 92nd General Assembly in 2019. l

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“Challenge Coin” SEPTEMBER 2020

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RUSSELLVILLE’S

Finest Photos by LIZ CHRISMAN Story by JOHNNY CARROL SAIN

DESPITE IT’S SMALL-TOWN STATUS, Russellville eateries have gained statewide and sometimes even nationwide fame. And, like so many other aspects of the city, the menu offerings in Russellville are diverse.

For this Russellville Sesquicentennial issue, we searched through past issues of ABOUT, sifting through Valley Vittles columns and photos, trying to pin down Russellville’s four most iconic restaurants.

The criteria was fairly simple: 1) A history of fantastic food. 2) Fantastic food now. 3) A unique, sometimes indescribable vibe that sets the restaurant apart from others offering similar meals. 4) Locally owned and woven into the community.

The list we settled on will likely draw debate, but we believe there’s little argument to be made against any establishment found on it. That being said, there’s more to the Russellville food scene than this quadruple of fine representatives.

Call on this foursome for toothsome local delights. But remember that the city is full of contenders for the title of Russellville’s most iconic restaurants.

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SEPTEMBER 2020 the the RIVER VALLEY SEPTEMBER 2020~ ~ABOUT ABOUT RIVER VALLEY33 33

STOBY’S

FOUNDED IN 1984 WHAT CAN’T YOU ORDER AT STOBY’S? Salads, burgers, quesadillas, breakfast, world-class cheese dip, their namesake sandwich, and so much more — diversity is on the menu and everything is delectable.

And then, of course you can eat in a train car and pull the whistle cord, too.

A delightful atmosphere, fantastic service, seemingly any dish you could ask for, and all prepared for the eye as well as the palate, Stoby’s is the place where any Russellville newcomer should dine first.

The biggest problem is what to order. The best solution is to try them all… over multiple visits, of course.

STOBY’S 405 W PARKWAY DRIVE RUSSELLVILLE

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OLD POST

FOUNDED IN 1979

OLD POST 407 S ARKANSAS AVE RUSSELLVILLE

THE PRIMAL CRAVING FOR GRILLED MEAT is buried deep in our DNA. We can try to deny it. We can try to fight it. But the growling carnivore within usually has its say. And then we’re on the hunt, searching online for places to eat, a dish to satisfy this old hunger.

Thankfully, Russellville has always had such a place and the lore surrounding it has only grown. With meals on the menu like “The Combo” — one pound of assorted grilled meats — and the astoundingly huge, slightly intimidating “Dagwood,” you’ll be full and searching for a comfortable spot to nap off the feast in no time.

Blending a bit from various barbecue styles and flavors, Old Post has a long history as the barbecue standard of Russellville.

A few barbecue newcomers in Russellville are closing the gap on Old Post. But we’ll check back in another 40 years, and odds are that Old Post will still be standing.

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TACO VILLA

TACO VILLA

FOUNDED IN 1976 FOR SO MANY YEARS, THIS WAS THE MEXICAN FOOD PLACE IN RUSSELLVILLE. And it’s not even really Mexican food. Call it Tex-Mex or even an entirely new genre all it’s own, Taco Villa is known far and wide for it’s unique take on southof-the-border cuisine. Gigantic burritos, edible bowl taco salads, a cheese dip that you just can’t stop eating, and absolutely addictive hot sauce.

When former residents are asked about some things they miss most about Russellville, Taco Villa is often near the top of the list. And the tiny restaurant on Fourth Street’s popularity has only grown over the years. Lines regularly spill outside the doors during any workday noon hour.

It’s more than just the spicy, cheesy, crunchy bites. Taco Villa is is a taste that leaves you craving more, a taste you want to share with others. Taco Villa is a taste of Russellville.

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420 EAST 4TH STREET RUSSELLVILLE

OLD SOUTH

F O U N D E D I N 1 9 47 TWO PRESIDENTS AND THE KING ATE HERE. What else do you need to know?

Well, you should know that there are myriad reasons, besides some famous customers, that you should visit Old South.

There’s the feeling that you’ve stepped back decades to maybe not a simpler time, but a time when things seemed more simple. The restaurant’s retro look is a huge component to the overall experience, and then there’s the food.

There’s some retro in the menu, too, and it’s done exceptionally well — chicken-fried steak, burgers, sandwiches, breakfast. There’s also the salads covered with that famous garlic ranch. There’s the Mickey Mouse pancakes. There’s the chocolate gravy… the chocolate gravy…

No other restaurant looks and tastes so much like our past as Old South. With neon tubes aglow and nostalgia in every bite, Old South is all that was and all that is excellent in Russellville eateries.

OLD SOUTH 1330 EAST MAIN STREET RUSSELLVILLE

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Hope Adair

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t’s not just the work/life balance. It’s not just the scenery or the manageable cost of living. I live in Russellville because Russellville embodies evolution.

I moved to Russellville in the summer of 2011, an aspiring music education student at Arkansas Tech already designing the blueprints for my escape upon graduation. During my tenure at ATU, I changed majors (multiple times), developed a substance addiction (overcame it), moved to all ends of town, held down several local jobs (lost a few), and found my tribe.

During my personal tumult, Russellville embraced and loved me, supported me, encouraged me, crafted me into the community enthusiast I am today. Russellville made me exchange my escape plans for business plans. This city, this sanctuary, made me OK with staying put, geographically, while evolving personally. It is a haven for misfits, for those in flux, for those who need a family. During my nine years in Russellville, I’ve seen businesses blossom, restaurants resurrect, and legislation legalized. In other words, I’ve seen evolution. Our community is developing into something more complex. “Complex” doesn’t necessarily equate to “beautiful,” or even “desired.” It

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ABOUT ABOUT the the RIVER RIVERVALLEY VALLEY ~~ SEPTEMBER SEPTEMBER2020 2020

just means we share many different and connected parts.

If you’re reading this right now, chances are that you’re a passionate local. Feel that passion right now. Why are you excited for this new ABOUT issue? Why did you make your favorite coffee to enjoy reading the thoughts of your peers?

Recently, it’s been easy to give in to our human nature, to focus on the divide. We tend to roll our eyes but, instead, this should be celebrated. These chasms in our community exist from passion.

How beautiful it is to live in a place peppered with the voices of those who care so intimately for their home and their neighbors.

This kind of diversity forces us to question, to grow, and to evolve.

Our city offers itself as a blank canvas for us to individually and collectively explore ourselves. Don’t you think we owe it to ourselves to truly grow? I came to Russellville a confused and broken child and this city provided the environment I needed to nurture myself into an energetic and fervent individual. Out of gratitude for letting us alter and modify it to our changing will, don’t we owe it to the City of Russellville to continue our personal growth? Shouldn’t we build a city that embraces that very evolution?

Breanne Davis

I

remember the day I moved to Russellville. I was a third grader who had just left all my friends behind in Atlanta, Georgia. I walked into Oakland Heights Elementary School where, “every heart beats true for the gold and the blue, the best school in every way.” It was a simpler time in 1991. Kids had more recess, Oregon Trail was the major technological learning tool in schools, and social media didn’t exist.

Now, three of my children are in the Russellville School District. Oakland Heights is their elementary school. They are in the same third grade classroom in which I was taught, only a lot has changed. Social media runs through every facet of our lives and students are learning to program robots in kindergarten. There are now 25 different languages spoken within RSD. We talk about living in a global economy, and you can see that so clearly within the walls of our schools. What an honor to educate students from all parts of the globe.

Growing up, I am sure I was not the only one who was told by my parents to leave a place better than I found it. It was instilled in me to respect other people’s property. I recent-

ly heard a twist on that principle. Last year, I was chosen as the Arkansas Mother of the Year and attended the American Mothers, Inc. Annual Conference in Washington, D.C. It was a wonderful time to learn from unbelievable women.

One mother gave a speech about leaving people better than you found them. When people have an interaction with us, they should walk away better than when they came to us.

Russellville has left me better than it found me on that October day in 1991. It has taught me good things about the world along with many tough lessons. One thing I’ve learned repeatedly is that just because my circumstances are hard, it does not mean they’re bad. It’s like Fredrick Douglass said, “without struggle, there is no progress.” It makes room for growth.

My hope is that we continue to encourage, support, and cheer on our local people, entrepreneurs, and students. Russellville, we’ve had a strong 150 years. And as we look forward to the next 150 years, I’m convinced of one thing: that we will continue to look for ways to leave people better than we found them.

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

What a way to end the summer Story by LYDIA ZIMMERMAN, Food Editor Photos by LIZ CHRISMAN

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he month of September not only marks the end of summer but also celebrates National Biscuit and National Honey Month.

There is nothing like a homemade biscuit right out of the oven with some fresh honey poured over it‌ except maybe a biscuit served with homemade gravy.

Whichever way you like to eat your biscuits or honey, I can just about guarantee you’ll find one of the tasty recipes I have gathered to suit your fancy.

As always, enjoy!

BERRY TEA BISCUITS WITH HONEY LEMON GLAZE

Biscuits: 1 pkg yeast 1 tsp granulated sugar 2 T warm water 3/4 c cooking oil 2 c buttermilk 5 c sifted all purpose flour 1 tsp baking soda 3 tsp baking powder

ABOUT Magazine Featured Recipe September 2020

Place warm water in large mixing bowl and dissolve granulated sugar in water.

Pour yeast on top of water and let set for 10 minutes.

Pour cooking oil and buttermilk into yeast mixture and stir well.

In another bowl sift flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt. Add brown sugar to mixture.

Add flour mixture into the yeast mixture and stir well.

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1 tsp salt 1/4 brown sugar, packed 2 c mixed berries, partially thawed (I used Great Value Berry Blend containing strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, raspberries) 1/2 c flour

In another bowl add partially thawed berries and 1/2 c flour. Coat berries with flour, then fold berries into biscuit dough.

On a clean floured surface roll dough out to approx 1/4 in thick and cut out the biscuits (I used the rim of a glass to cut mine).

You can cook them in an air fryer lined with parchment paper for 10 minutes at 360 degrees, turning them over 1/2 way through cooking.

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Glaze: 2 c powdered sugar 2 tsp lemon extract 2 tsp lemon zest 2 T honey 2-3 T milk

Or you can bake them at 375 degrees for approx 15-18 minutes.

Remove to a cooling rack after cooking to cool.

Preparing the glaze: Place powdered sugar into a medium size bowl, add lemon extract, lemon zest, and honey. Stir well and gradually add milk a tablespoon at a time to desired consistency. Drizzle over cooled biscuit and spread glaze over the biscuits with the back of a spoon.

BUTTERMILK BISCUITS WITH SAUSAGE GRAVY Biscuits: 2 c sifted flour 2 tsp baking powder 1/4 tsp baking soda 1 tsp salt 1/3 c cooking oil 2/3 c buttermilk Gravy: 2 T bacon drippings (saved from cooking bacon) 2 c milk 1 c sifted flour 1-2 tsp salt 1-2 tsp ground black pepper 1 c sausage, cooked and crumbled 2 slices cooked bacon, crumbled Preheat oven to 425 degrees.

For biscuits, add the above ingredients to a large mixing bowl and stir, mixing well.

Place dough on a clean floured surface and knead for approx 3 minutes.

Cut biscuits out and place on a lightly greased baking pan. Bake for approx 15-18 minuets or until browned.

For the gravy, while biscuits are baking, add bacon drippings to a large skillet over medium heat. After drippings are melted and hot add milk to mixture and stir well until milk is warm. Turn heat to low.

In a small bowl mix flour, salt and pepper, gradually add it to the skillet. Stir well after

Buttermilk Biscuits with Sausage Gravy

bottom of the banking dish, trying not to disturb the butter and sugar Bake the bananas for 15 minutes, or until they are lightly browned and the liquid in the bottom of the dish is bubbly. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly.

Combine the sour cream, honey and vanilla in a small bowl.

Serve bananas with a dollop of the honey cream sauce.

Recipe courtesy of Corrine Smith, Central Beekeepers Supply LLC

HONEY LIME FRUIT SALAD 1 lb fresh strawberries, chopped 1 lb chopped fresh pineapple, each addition.

When mixture has begun to thicken add 12 oz fresh blueberries crumbled sausage and bacon. Stir well. Re- 12 oz red grapes, sliced into halves 4 kiwis, peeled and chopped move from heat and spoon over biscuits.

12 oz pitted sliced cherries 1 small can mandarin oranges BAKED BANANAS & (you can substitute any fruit you’d like) HONEY CREAM 4 Bananas Honey Lime Dressing 4 T butter, cut into pieces 1/4 c honey 2 T brown sugar 2 tsp lime zest (zest of 2 medium limes) 1 c orange juice 1 1/2 T fresh lime juice 1 c sour cream 1 T honey Add all fruit to a large mixing bowl.

1 tsp vanilla extract In a small mixing bowl, whisk together they honey, lime zest and lime juice.

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

Peel and cut the bananas in half length- Pour over fruit and toss to evenly coat, ways. Place the bananas in a baking dish, dot serve immediately or refrigerate for later.

Recipe courtesy of Corrine Smith, Cenwith butter and sprinkle with brown sugar >> Carefully pour the orange juice into the tral Beekeepers Supply LLC

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GREEK HONEY LEMON CHICKEN KABABS For Chicken: 1/2 c olive oil 1/4 c flat leaf parsley, stems removed and chopped 3 T honey 2 lemons, zested and juiced 4 cloves garlic, crushed and roughly chopped *2 T Za’atar seasoning 1 1/2 lbs chicken tenders or breasts, cut into 1 in strips and skewered length-wise For Honey Taziki: 1 c whole milk Greek yogurt 1 English cucumber, seeds removed, finely grated and drained on paper towels, and squeezed dry 2 T fresh dil, chopped, plus a few sprigs for garnish 1 T honey 2 T fresh lemon juice 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 tsp kosher salt For Serving: *2 tsp Za’atar seasoning 2 T olive oil 1 lemon, sliced Preheat oven to 400°F. For the chicken, combine all ingredients except the skewered chicken, in a shallow dish add toss to coat the skewers. Let this marinate for at least 2 hours up to overnight.

For the Honey Taziki, combine all the ingredients in a small bowl, being sure the cucumbers are well-drained and squeezed dry with paper towels to remove extra moisture, cover and refrigerate.

Place the chicken kababs on a sheet pan and cook for 12-14 minutes, turning halfway through. When the chicken is cooked through, remove the kababs to a clean plate and cover.

Serve the kababs warm or room temperature. Drizzle the Honey Taziki with the olive oil and sprinkle with the Za’atar, serve with lemon slices and fresh pita.

Recipe courtesy of honey.com *Za’atar seasoning: 2 T dried oregano, preferably Greek or Turkish

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2 T sumac 2 T sesame seeds 1 T dried marjoram or additional oregano 1 T dried thyme 1 tsp fine sea salt Simply combine all of the ingredients in a bowl or jar, and stir to combine.

For enhanced flavor, warm the spices together in a medium skillet over medium heat, until fragrant and the sesame seeds are starting to turn golden. Remove from the heat and transfer to a bowl to cool.

Store za’atar in an air-tight container at room temperature for up to 1 month.

Recipe courtesy of cookieandkate.com SWEET HONEY JALAPEÑO CHEDDAR CORNBREAD BISCUITS 1 1/2 c all-purpose flour 1 1/2 c cornmeal 5 tsp baking powder 1/2 tsp baking soda 1/2 tsp salt 1/2 tsp pepper 1 1/2 sticks cold unsalted butter cut into small cubes 1 egg lightly beaten 3/4 c buttermilk 1/4 c honey 3/4 c sharp cheddar cheese cubed 2-3 jalapeños, deseeded and diced Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. In a large bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, baking powder, baking soda, salt and pepper. Whisk until combined. Using a fork, pastry blender or your hands, add butter pieces to the flour and mix until coarse little crumbles remain. Whisk together the buttermilk, egg and and honey and pour into the flour. Stir with a spoon until just combined, not over mixing. Use your hands if needed to bring the dough together. Fold in the cheddar cheese and jalapenos.

Use a 1/4 c measure to drop batter onto a nonstick baking sheet, or press dough on a sheet of parchment paper or cutting board, then using a biscuit cutter to shape the dough into rounds. Brush with buttermilk.

Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until biscuits are golden brown.

Recipe courtesy of halfbakedharvest.com

HONEY BALSAMIC ROASTED BRUSSELS SPROUTS 1.5 lbs brussels sprouts 3 T olive oil 1/2 tsp salt 1/4 tsp black pepper 2 T balsamic vinegar 2 tsp honey Preheat oven to 425 degrees.

Trim ends from each Brussels sprout. If needed, peel off the wilted outer leaves and discard. Cut each in half.

Arrange Brussels sprouts on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly. Spread vegetables into a single layer, making sure there is no overlap.

Roast Brussels sprouts for 18 to 20 minutes or until you see browned caramelized edges. Remove from oven.

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together honey and balsamic vinegar. Pour mixture over roasted veggies. Toss to coat evenly.

Serve right away.

Recipe courtesy of Corrine Smith, Central Beekeepers Supply LLC

16 minutes. At sea level, this may take more like 12-14 minutes. Keep an eye on them. Once they are golden brown on top, they are about ready to come out of the oven.

Serve warm.

Recipe courtesy of cookingandbeer.com

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VANILLA BEAN WHIPPED HONEY BUTTER 1/2 c butter room temperature 2 T milk or water 1/4 c honey 1/2 of one vanilla bean scraped or 1/2 tsp vanilla extract In the bowl of a stand mixer, or a large mixing bowl, whip the butter with the milk for 2-3 minutes until it is light and fluffy. Add the honey and beat for another minute, until well combined. Add the vanilla and beat just to combine. Scoop into a jar and use immediately or chill until needed. Bring to room temperature when ready to serve. Enjoy!

Recipe courtesy of barefeetinthekitchen. com l

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SKILLET GOAT CHEESE BEER BISCUITS 2 1/4 c all-purpose flour 1/4 tsp baking soda 1 T baking powder 1 tsp kosher salt 1 T granulated sugar 1/2 c COLD unsalted butter cubed 1 1/4 c goat cheese 1 tsp black pepper 1 1/3 cup beer Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt and sugar. Add the cold cubed butter, and crumble with your fingers until you reach a consistency that resembles coarse crumbles.

Add the goat cheese and black pepper. Stir to combine and then add the buttermilk.

With a heavy wooden spoon, combine the ingredients, making sure to not overwork the dough.

In 1/3 c increments, drop the dough in dollops straight into a preheated cast iron skillet. Sprinkle with more black pepper and bake at 425 degrees F for 14-

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A college town The success of Arkansas Tech University has been integral to the success of Russellville Story by SAM STRASNER | Photos by LIZ CHRISMAN & provided by ARKANSAS TECH UNIVERSITY

Writer's Note: Every word in this article is possible because of the research and expertise of two former members of the Arkansas Tech University history faculty: the late Dr. Kenneth R. Walker, author of "History of Arkansas Tech University: 1909-90," and Dr. Thomas A. DeBlack, author of "A Century Forward: The Centennial History of Arkansas Tech University." This article is no more than a re-telling of a small percentage of the treasure trove of Arkansas Tech history they mined and left for the education and enjoyment of those who love ATU.

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here’s a dam good reason Arkansas Tech University is located in Russellville.

More than 110 years ago, virtually every municipality in the Arkansas River Valley threw its proverbial hat in the ring for the opportunity to host the school. Several towns met the minimum requirements for land and finances asked for by the Board of Trustees of what was then known as the 44

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~

Second District Agricultural School.

But Judge R.B. Wilson, who was leading the effort to bring the school to Russellville, had an ace in the hole.

He knew that a new dam north of town on the Illinois Bayou had become operational as of November 1909, and that it was going to enhance the availability and efficiency of delivering running water and electricity to Russellville. As result, the

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offer from Russellville to the Second District Agricultural School Board of Trustees included something no other offer did: free lights and water for three years.

On Feb. 10, 1910, the board met in Ozark and voted to award the school to Russellville.

The story of Arkansas Tech University --- and three other universities in the state --- is rooted in a successful lobbying effort by the Farmers’ Educational and Cooperative Union. Its calls for better rural education led the Arkansas legislature to pass Act 100 of the 37th Arkansas General Assembly. It was signed into law by Gov. George Donaghey on April 1, 1909.

Domestic Science, 1917

The other schools created by Act 100 were located in Jonesboro, Magnolia and Monticello. Today, those schools are known as Arkansas State University, Southern Arkansas University and the University of Arkansas at Monticello.

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NINE FACULTY MEMBERS and 186 students reported to campus for the first day of class at the Second District Agricultural School on Oct. 26, 1910. Selecting a curriculum to pursue was not a difficult task. The boys were enrolled in agriculture classes, while the girls were provided academic opportunities in the domestic sciences (later known as home economics).

Stability was not the school's companion at the outset. There were four presidents in the first eight years. World War I led to a drop in enrollment from 350 students in 1914-15 to 110 students in 1917-18. As the search for the fifth president in Second District Agricultural School history commenced, it was necessary to identify a transformational leader with a vision for what the school could become. In walked Hugh Critz.

Soon after taking office in August 1918, Critz went about the task of ingratiating himself with agricultural leaders and organizations in the Arkansas River valley and northwest Arkansas.

John Tucker Alfred Crabaugh

He worked with the Second District Agricultural School Board of Trustees to begin shifting the curriculum of the institution toward a four-year, college-level program in agriculture and home economics.

By 1922, enrollment had reached an alltime high of 430 students.

Critz recognized the public relations value of a successful football team and worked to frame winning as a point of pride for both the school and the community to which it was tied.

In 1919, an upcoming game against the agricultural school from Jonesboro brought the Second District Agricultural School and Russellville together like never before. An Arkansas Gazette article in advance of the contest included the following passage: “If the Russellville Aggies lose to the Jonesboro Aggies here Friday afternoon, it will not result from lack of support… for the entire town of Russellville is backing the team to win. This fact was manifested last night at a rousing get-together meeting in the city hall under the auspices of the Russellville Chamber of Commerce.”

The article continued: “Pep was the slogan, and business men and professional men made enthusiastic talks pledging their attendance and support to Hugh Critz the home team.”

The Second District Agricultural School defeated the Jonesboro team 14-0 behind the exploits of a freshman quarterback named John Tucker.

The following season, Edgar O. Brown was hired away from Central College in Fayette, Mo., to coach the squad then known as the Russellville Aggies at the Second District school. With Tucker as the star player, the Second District school amassed a cumulative record of 31-3-5 from 192024. Its only three losses during that span were to the University of Tulsa (1922), Army (1923) and Texas A&M (1924).

One of the wins, a 13-0 triumph at what is now known as Henderson State University on Nov. 16, 1920, prompted the Arkansas Gazette to use the nickname Wonder Boys as a proper noun in describing the team for the first time. The nickname has stuck for a century.

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FOR ALL THE WINS during the Critz era, there was one defeat that is the biggest "what if?" in the history of Arkansas Tech.

As a graduate of and former faculty member at Mississippi A&M (now known as Mississippi State University), Critz had an ambition to establish a similar institution in Arkansas. To that end, he worked with State Rep. Reese Caudle of Pope County to introduce a bill in the Arkansas General Assembly that sought to move the agriculture and mechanical departments at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville to Russellville and give them greater emphasis in accordance with Critz's vision. >>

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Main Building, 1925

Legislators made on-campus visits to learn more about the possible benefits of the move, and the bill made it to the floor of the Arkansas House of JW Hull Representatives in January 1923. It was there and then that Rep. W.L. Lee of Pope County suffered a fatal heart attack while speaking on behalf of the measure. Recess was called. Momentum was lost. The bill was defeated.

Critz's vision, and perhaps a part of his spirit, was extinguished. He tendered his resignation as Second District school president on May 3, 1923, and after a oneyear leave of absence, he cited poor health in making his exit from the school official and final. He later served as president at the institutions now known as the University of Arkansas-Monticello and his alma mater, Mississippi State. He died in 1939 at the age of 62.

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MANY OF THE initiatives Critz advocated for continued to move the school forward even after his departure from the Second District Agricultural School. The progression toward a college-level curriculum led to Act 45 of 1925, which was signed by Gov. Thomas J. Terral on Feb. 10, 1925, and changed the name of the institution to Arkansas Polytechnic College.

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~

It has commonly been known as Arkansas Tech ever since.

Arkansas Tech awarded Bachelor of Science degrees in agriculture and home economics in 1925.

The high school curriculum was phased out and discontinued by 1930.

Persisting as a four-year college proved unsustainable at that time. By 1928, Arkansas Tech found middle ground as a junior college that continued to emphasize agriculture and home economics with some forays into fields such as engineering, teacher preparation and even a short-lived experiment in textile manufacturing education.

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Arkansas Tech initiated a search for its eighth president, Chambers championed another Yell County resident --- J.W. Hull --- for the job.

Hull had earned acclaim as the instructor of the top-ranked Future Farmers of America chapter in the U.S., and he had personally achieved the rank of Master Teacher of Vocational Agriculture in Arkansas.

“My grandfather saw the vision that Dr. Hull had much beyond Danville,” said John Ed Chambers III, a three-term member of the ATU Board of Trustees, during a 2011 interview. “It was an unbelievable step for him to go from teaching agriculture in Danville to serving as president at Arkansas Tech. My grandfather had great belief in Dr. Hull and his abilities. Dr. Hull was a great man, a great promoter and I’m very proud to have known him."

On Jan. 1, 1932, the Arkansas Tech Board of Trustees elected Hull as the college's new leader.

ARKANSAS TECH'S CAMPUS was placed in Russellville, but two of the most important figures in its development came to the university from neighboring Yell County.

Judge John Ed Chambers of Danville was appointed to the Arkansas Tech Board of Trustees for the first time in 1925. He served through 1937, from 1939-53 and again from 1955-63.

Sam Hindsman & Team As 1931 unfolded and

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HULL WAS ANOTHER Mississippi A&M alumnus, but 1932 was not a time for the pursuit of grand plans as had been the case during the Critz administration. It was a time for institutional survival amid what came to be known as the Great Depression.

Arkansas Tech finished the 1931-32 academic year with a budget deficit and was borrowing money from local banks to meet payroll.

Throughout the depression and the global conflict that followed, Hull's ingenuity allowed Arkansas Tech to remain afloat.

He took advantage of New Deal programs such as the Reconstruction Finance

Corporation, the Civilian Conservation Corps, the Civil Works Administration, the Public Works Administration and the National Youth Administration to gain revenue and improve college facilities.

During World War II, Arkansas Tech buildings and grounds were utilized to support Women's Army Auxiliary Corps, which offered training in clerical, administrative and stenographic duties. The on-campus airport was used to train U.S. Air Corps and U.S. Navy pilots.

Hull's pragmatic approach during difficult times was summarized by a 1935 Arka Tech student newspaper article that stated the college president would not build a new sidewalk until after the students' pedestrian patterns indicated where they should be installed.

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was hired as head of the English department at Arkansas Tech in 1929. Within two years, he was elevated to vice president.

Crabaugh served in the U.S. Navy and was an instructor in the Naval V-12 program at University of California during World War II. After the war, he came home to Arkansas Tech with a new mission in mind.

Emboldened by the post-war enrollment increase, Crabaugh fulfilled Arkansas Tech's deferred destiny to become a fouryear college. By fall 1948, a junior year of course work was offered. Those students rolled over into a senior year of study the following fall and became the first Arkansas Tech students in a quarter-century to receive baccalaureate degrees in 1950.

Crabaugh's pursuit was completed in 1951 when the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools granted Arkansas Tech accreditation as a four-year institution of higher learning. Arkansas Tech has maintained that accreditation ever since.

Following four decades of service to the institution, Crabaugh retired in 1969.

He remains the only person in the history of the institution to hold the title academic dean.

He is remembered as the father of the modern intellectual tradition at Arkansas Tech.

JUST AS TOUGH times reached the door of Arkansas Tech, good times followed as part of the post-war boon.

Bolstered by the G.I. Bill, enrollment rebounded from a wartime low of 133 students in fall 1943 to 1,159 students in fall 1948.

The Wonder Boys football team won five consecutive Arkansas Intercollegiate Conference titles (1945-49), including a 1945 season during which they dismantled their eight opponents by a cumulaHULL RETIRED FROM tive score of 311-6 under the presidency at Arkansas Tech on June 30, the direction of their head 1967. Over the span of his coach, the original Wonder 35 years in office, ArkanBoy, John Tucker. sas Tech's campus grew Sam Hindsman was from 17 major buildings hired at Tech in 1947 and to 46, and enrollment inwent about the task of Gene Witherspoon creased from 447 students building a basketball dyto 2,466. He remains the longest-serving nasty that spanned two decades and inpresident among the 12 individuals who cluded 11 AIC titles. have held that title at Arkansas Tech.

Gene Witherspoon became Arkansas Among the legacies of the Hull era is Tech director of bands in 1950 and established a national reputation for musical that it marked the beginning of a time excellence that has persisted for seven when an Arkansas Tech education is availdecades. able to all who wish to pursue it.

Of all the good news at Arkansas Tech George T. Hudgens became the first Affollowing World War II, none was more rican American graduate of Arkansas Tech important to its future than the return to in 1963. Hudgens completed the U.S. campus of Alfred J. Crabaugh.

Army ROTC program at Arkansas Tech Originally from Bentonville, Crabaugh as a Distinguished Military Graduate and

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Blacksmith Shop, 1912

Crabaugh Retirement Riot, 1968

went on to a 29-year career in service to his country that saw him retire at the rank of Colonel.

When Hudgens was inducted into the Arkansas Tech Hall of Distinction in 2017, he received a standing ovation from those assembled at Tucker Coliseum for spring commencement.

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CHEERING CROWDS WERE a familiar sight and sound for the 1971 Wonder Boys football team. Head coach Don Dempsey led Arkansas Tech to a 12-1 overall record, an AIC title and a berth in the NAIA national championship game. The 12 wins remain a single-season school record.

Arkansas Tech began offering graduate courses in fall 1976. As had been the case 51 years earlier, the substantial change in curriculum was paired with a name change. The institution became known as Arkansas Tech University.

Enrollment grew steadily from approximately 2,000 students to more than 4,000 during the two-decade presidency of Dr. Kenneth Kersh. >>

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college into one of five universities in the state with more than 11,000 students, oversaw the addition of more than 50 new programs of study, was integral in bringing Arkansas Tech-Ozark Campus into the university, guided the institution through its transition to NCAA Division II status, was at the forefront of the creation of the Great American Conference and led an investment of $260 million in new facilities, renovated facilities and campus infrastructure.

Following Brown's retirement, the ATU Board of Trustees bestowed upon him the titles president emeritus and distinguished professor of economics.

4

Dr. Robin E. Bowen’s 2015 Innaugaration as ATU’s 12th President

The only alumnus to hold the office of president at Arkansas Tech, Kersh oversaw the construction and/or planning of Tucker Coliseum, Crabaugh Hall, Tech Field (now known as Carl Baswell Field), Corley Hall and the Energy Center as part of his administration from 1973-93.

The Kersh presidency was capped by perhaps the greatest athletic achievement in Arkansas Tech history. Head coach Joe Foley led the Golden Suns women's basketball program to back-to-back NAIA national championships in 1992 and 1993.

Foley won a school-record 456 games in 16 years as the Golden Suns’ head coach from 1987-2003.

4

ON MAY 15, 1993, a family in Joplin, Mo., was gathered in its basement when the phone rang.

ATU Board of Trustees Chairman Johnny Morgan was on the other end of the line with a job offer that would lead to one of the greatest success stories in the history of higher education in Arkansas.

Four days later, Dr. Robert C. Brown was formally introduced by the ATU Board of Trustees as the 11th president of Arkansas Tech.

“We were looking for a candidate who was not only academically qualified, but one who had experience in different aspects of university life,” said Morgan. “We were particularly looking for someone who could project the proper image for Arkansas Tech and help us grow the university. He’s extremely bright. He is very articulate. He has a way of presenting a vision or a goal such that you believe it is going to get accomplished. That, as much as anything, is the character of Bob Brown.”

Over his 21 years as president, Brown transformed Arkansas Tech from a small

Jerry the Bulldog, ATU Campus Ambassador 48

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~

SEPTEMBER 2020

BROWN'S FINAL YEAR as president saw Arkansas Tech re-connect with a part of its past.

W.O. Young oversaw the business affairs of Arkansas Tech as secretary and bursar from 1917-42 and acted as interim president of the college from 1923-25.

During the 1930s, he owned a bulldog named Jerry who often accompanied him

Dr. Bob Brown & students

to campus. The original Jerry spent much of his time at the on-campus armory (later known as the Stroupe Building) with National Guard Battery F. The students and guardsmen there adopted Jerry as one of their own.

An article from the Feb. 26, 1936, issue of the Arka Tech student newspaper stated that Jerry was “always present at anything of importance at the armory,” which was a social center of campus at that time and the site of Arkansas Tech home basketball games.

When the original Jerry passed away in late 1937, the headline in the Arka Tech proclaimed “Campus Loses Mascot in Passing of Jerry.”

After those newspaper articles were unearthed in 2012, the ATU Student Government Association (SGA) conducted a review of them in consideration of restoring the tradition of Jerry the Bulldog. On Oct. 23, 2013, ATU SGA cast a unanimous vote to install Jerry as campus ambassador.

The first modern Jerry, whose full name is Jerry Charles Young I, was born on July 17, 2013. He is an English bulldog.

He was introduced during a Homecoming Saturday ceremony in front of Williamson Hall on Oct. 26, 2013, which was the 103rd anniversary of the first day of classes at Arkansas Tech.

4

DR. ROBIN E. BOWEN was unanimously elected the 12th president of Arkansas Tech University by the Arkansas Tech Board of Trustees on April 22, 2014. She took office on July 1, 2014.

“When Doug and I visited campus, we fell in love with the area, we fell in love with the people and we fell in love with Arkansas Tech University,” said Bowen

on the day she was announced as ATU's next president. “It was a delight to meet all of you. We felt like this was the perfect place for us to be, and I couldn’t be happier that you feel that it is a good match as well. For my family and for myself, in so many ways this is like coming home. I’m so grateful for this opportunity to serve the career center, the Ozark campus and the Russellville campus. We know that everything we do, first and foremost, is for the students. We are here for the students.”

Bowen is the first female president of a public, four-year university in Arkansas.

She is identified by the Arkansas Business Publishing Group as one of the Arkansas 250, an annual list of the state’s top influencers and newsmakers.

ATU has celebrated multiple record enrollments during the Bowen presidency, including an all-time high of 12,101 students during fall 2018. In addition, ATU has earned national acclaim from the CollegeNET Social Mobility Index as the top performing institution in Arkansas and among the top 5 percent of

institutions in the U.S. when it comes to providing students with access to an enhanced economic position following graduation. The first doctoral degrees in ATU history were conferred in 2017.

The institution has developed and enacted a new strategic plan, new campus master plan, new mission statement and new vision statement during the Bowen administration.

When she was inaugurated in April 2015, Bowen reflected on the essential collaboration between Arkansas Tech and Russellville that Judge Wilson sparked with that offer of free lights and water more than a century earlier.

“The community first gave this institution life, and it is the community that will help Tech grow," said Bowen. "I am impressed by the abundant goodwill toward Tech. I know that I am very fortunate to have landed in such a wonderful community. Life is good in the Arkansas River valley, but there is still much to do.

Together, we must find ways to make our community even stronger." l

SEPTEMBER 2020

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Jeannie Rodriguez

I

f the exit ramps on Interstate 40 are essentially our welcome mats and front porches, a liminal space that is constantly in flux yet imbued with a sense of who we are, then who are we? Certainly, we are parts of who we used to be, but because community is an evolving concept we are becoming more than we once were.

Appropriately, our linguistic landscape is not just welcoming travelers who happen to stop for awhile, but we are mirroring who we are to passersby and reminding ourselves of who we want to be.

Linguistic landscape is a term to describe the language embedded in the signs and visual imagery in a particular space. I admit that in my past I have been totally oblivious of these sometimes obscure messages, but things have changed as I enter my 26th year as a Pope County resident and my 60th trip around the sun. I seem to be acutely aware of the ghost signs in our shared place: what used to be where, how we preserve those memories, and how we choose to reuse those sites. We refer to these transformed places in our daily conversation, as in, “My favorite restaurant is Linh’s Vietnamese Cuisine. You know, where the old CJ’s Butcher Boy Burgers used to be on Knoxville across from the fair grounds.”

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~

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I’ve witnessed our tools for public discourse grow beyond monophonic signs and messages to include a more accurate reflection of the rich diversity that is the River Valley community.

In addition to iconic points of interest — Whatta-Burger, Russellville Depot, and Old South — we now have professional welcome signs on the interstate, and an increase of mixed-lingual operative signs in Atkins, Russellville, Dardanelle, Danville, and Clarksville informing us of a booming Latinx population and a colorful Karen community.

Like our ancestors, we place our signature on the surrounding canvas – even on the temporal highway signs that dot our freeway landscape. The murals and creative expressions bear witness to what we say we value.

We heart Russellville. Our conceptual front porches are abuzz with conversation and neighborliness, even if much of the conversation exists in a virtual realm as the case of a recent mural painted in the primitive tradition on a concrete wall in London.

Because we are a living community and not stuck wholly in our past, we are continually tweaking our identity, and that is a beautiful thing to be alive.

Christie Graham

B

eing born and raised in Russellville for all but a few years after moving off after college, I realized real quick how special this town was and how much I loved it.

I always thought I would go off to college, but then I stayed at ATU. I always thought I would move out of my parents’ home at 18, but I ended up staying until I graduated college and then bought my own place. I always thought I would live somewhere else, but I am still here after all these years, raising my kids in the town that I loved growing up in.

I rode my bike in the neighborhood I grew up in, and some of my best memories and days were

in that neighborhood. My husband, kids and I also lived 10 years in that same neighborhood and they experienced some of those same memories. From what I can tell, as I have been researching Russellville for the Sesquicentennial, is that Russellville has always been a special place for many reasons and still is to this day. From the state parks, rivers, lake, mountains, the good families that have had roots here for generations, to the Tech students that make this a temporary home, Russellville is a gem hidden in The Natural State of Arkansas. It’s simple in so many ways but rich in history and character.

Happy 150-year Birthday, Russellville. I am happy to call you home.

SEPTEMBER 2020

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COMMUNITY COMMERCE

Story by HANNAH BUTLER | Photos provided by RUSSELLVILLE SCHOOL DISTRICT

FORTY-SIX CHILDREN ATTENDED THAT FIRST YEAR OF SCHOOL IN RUSSELLVILLE. ONE HUNDRED YEARS LATER AND ENROLLMENT WAS AT 3,300 STUDENTS. From Russellville’s Centennial Booklet: “The schoolhouses, books, and methods have changed but the bright young faces and dedicated teachers have not been altered over the century.

When we look forward into the second hundred years we must not forget to look back and see where we have been to appreciate where we are today.”

Another 50 years later, and the words are still true to Russellville School District (RSD). It’s just filled with new students in new buildings.

More than 5,000 students are currently enrolled in the RSD. Six elementary schools, an upper elementary school, a middle school, a junior high, a large high school complex with secondary learning center, and The Center for the Arts on the high school campus offer opportunity without overwhelming.

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~

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Russellville School District 220 West 10th Street (479) 968-1306 www.russellvilleschools.net

The Russellville School District’s mission is to educate, equip and empower every student every day to become great leaders and citizens. And the students have responded to that mission.

The RSD robotics club continues to make headlines. Cyclone athletics are always competitive. The choir reached all the way to Carnegie Hall in 2018, and the high school band, led by Dewayne Dove for 30 years, has always been considered “the pride of Russellville.”

It’s a sentiment that truly encompasses the school district as a whole. And at the heart of RSD is strong leadership. In 2020 it all begins with Superintendent Dr. Mark Gotcher.

Mark started his career in education as a music teacher at Center Valley Elementary. He’ll still occasionally pop into classes or different elementary schools with his guitar to sing duets with principals and teachers while he’s roaming the buildings.

“Any day that I can spend time with our students and teachers is a great day,” Mark says. “They are truly the heart and strength of our district.”

For Mark, his care has excelled his craft. But he hasn’t done that alone. Rachel Jones, communications coordinator, and Renae Bailey, administrative assistant, are both vital to his work behind the scenes.

“I love meeting the public, helping parents and staff,” Renae says. “I feel blessed to have this job and work with wonderful people.”

Renae says that each building she’s worked at in the school district comes with a different story, and that working with so many different people has enriched her career. Besides adding to her job skills, Renae says that during her time at RSD she’s also made best friends and second families.

Renae says she’s also been proud of how the facilities have grown and improved over the years with new playground equipment, a robotics club and additions to staff as examples. “We have a nurse at every campus now, which is a huge plus for our office staff,” she says.

Renae’s 24 years in the school district almost matches that of Wesley White, a former high school principal and current school board member. Mr. White is a name that’s familiar to many alumni of RSD. For some, it’s the memories of him saying, “Here, kitty, kitty!” into the intercom when it was time to play the Wampus Cats from Conway.

“It made such an impact of so many Russellville alums’ memories,” Laura Wetzel, a 2005 graduate of Russellville Schools, remembers. “So many of us talk about that. To me, that was probably one of my most favorite times of the year.” >> SEPTEMBER 2020

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

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Wesley has refrained from saying “here kitty” out loud in school board meetings, but his legacy will always remain. His more recent work for the RSD includes writing grants for Project Lead the Way and improvements to the engineering program.

Project Lead the Way is a program that promotes a curriculum focused on science, technology, engineering and math, otherwise known as STEM. Sequoyah Elementary was the first school in the district to receive a STEM certification. It’s also been recognized as a national blue ribbon school by the Arkansas Department of Education in 2019.

“I felt like the support of the science program was something we really needed to do,” Wesley says. “Now, I feel like our STEM initiatives are one of the best in the country.”

Wesley is proud of his students and how much RSD has progressed. It’s why he’s spent eight years after his retirement to serve on the school board.

“It’s also just neat to keep up with the kids and see what they become,” Wesley says. “You’re on the front end on whether they want to be a doctor, or a lawyer, or in the mission field, then actually see that take place. It’s just neat to see those successes come through, and we’ve had a lot of successful people come through.”

Laura Wetzel believes those former students have succeeded because of RSD’s commitment to those students along with opportunities that just aren’t available in smaller districts. “ I want my kid to go to Russellville because I feel like there’s more op-

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portunity there,” Laura says. “There’s a lot of positive exposure there.”

Laura was involved in cross country, track and student council at RSD. As a small business owner and Junior Auxiliary president, the lessons from those experiences in RSD have guided her.

“It’s pushed me to work a little harder,” she says.

That sense of opportunity found in the school district has also influenced the community. “Another part about Russellville that’s a positive is that if you want to be involved, you can find things to be involved in,” Laura says. “There’s enough going on here and enough need that you can volunteer and try to make a positive influence if you can.”

Troy Norton, a 1989 graduate of RSD, has a long history of volunteer work with the Boys and Girls Club. Troy now serves as the athletic director for the BGC. His class, although made up of nearly 300 people, bonded tightly and he still enjoys getting together with his high school friends. “Our class was very competitive but we were more of a family,” he says. “We didn’t get into trouble much.”

When Troy reminisces on those times, it’s easy for him to reflect on what he learned from RSD. “I had some really great teachers and coaches,” Troy says. “Especially with playing sports, I learned about family, and being honest, and making sure I was loyal.”

Troy remembers all the speeches his coaches used to make when he played football and basketball. He’s carried those lessons with him throughout his life. And once he knew he wanted to coach, his teachers and coaches mentored and helped him to observe classrooms and to earn in his masters’ degree.

All of this is testament to the excellence of Russellville Schools where everyone works toward the mission to educate, equip and empower. l

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in the Garden

Saving seeds, saving heritage Story by JILL MCSHEEHY

I SLIPPED THE BLADES OF MY PRUNERS AROUND THE STEM AND SQUEEZED. Tossing the young, tender okra pod into my bucket, I looked forward to eating a “mess” of fried okra at dinner that night. (My mom always called it a “mess” -- not sure if that’s a southern term?)

The one “must-have” crop of my garden, okra holds many memories for me. When I was a child, my mom never failed to grow okra in her garden, and she always cooked it fried like any good Southern cook. One year in particular, her plants grew at least seven or eight feet tall. We were in a new house that year and apparently the previous owners spread chicken litter in the garden area. She was so proud of her okra that summer and had me take a rare photo of her in her okra patch.

Thirty years later, I’m proud of my okra, too, but for a different reason. I haven’t

had to buy okra seeds -- or okra itself -for years. From my earliest garden, I started saving the seeds of the staple Clemson Spineless okra to grow the next season.

From a practical standpoint, my family has been eating free okra for a long time.

But seed saving also holds rich history.

Dig into the stories behind heirloom plants like Craig LeHoullier’s Cherokee Purple tomato or Melissa K. Norris’s Tar Heel pole bean and you’ll learn there’s more to seed saving than planning for next season.

Seeds have stories. Seeds have history.

Even okra itself is thought to have come to North America through slave trade ships, where Africans wove the seeds in their hair

because the crop was so important to preserve and grow in their future land.

Though my original seed of Clemson Spineless okra did not come from any my mom had saved, I hope I can pass on the seed to my children. In this case, the history of this particular okra in my family starts with me.

Once I began saving a few seed varieties, I started saving more. Over the years, my crops of black-eyed peas, pole beans, and some tomatoes have come from previous years’ crops. Not only is this a fun, economical, and even nostalgic practice, but also -- this year more than ever -- I feel a necessity for it.

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SEPTEMBER 2020

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At the time of this writing, many popular seed companies remain sold out of staple varieties. In the spring of 2020, many of these companies had to close to new orders because they couldn’t ship fast enough to meet demand -- particularly when having to change their working operation to comply with social-distancing recommendations. As a result, consumers like us who have grown accustomed to procuring seeds, like buying candy at the supermarket check-out lane, found ourselves limited in our options.

To supplement the seeds I saved from last season, thankfully I had bought the seed I needed for 2020 in January. But will I be able to do the same in January 2021?

No one knows at this point. That’s why I’m expanding which seeds I’m saving from this year’s harvest and I encourage gardeners to do the same.

The truth is, saving seeds isn’t as complicated as you may think. You just have to keep in mind two important concepts: • Save seed only from open-pollinated (not hybrid) plants.

• Save seed only from plants that were

unlikely to have cross-pollinated with others in the same species.

Hybrid plants have their purposes, but seed saving isn’t one of them. If you bought a transplant at the nursery this year, find out what variety it is and do an Internet search to find out if it is open-pollinated (often labeled heirloom) or hybrid (often labeled F1).

If you find out that the plant is, in fact, open-pollinated, ensure it hasn’t had the opportunity to cross-pollinate with another plant of the same species. This can get complicated, but for the beginner, here are the plants that are generally safe to save seed from because cross-pollination isn’t as likely: • Tomatoes • Beans • Peas • Black-eyed peas If you only grow one variety of the following vegetables, you can save seed from them: • Peppers • Cucumbers • Cantaloupe • Watermelon • Okra • Summer Squash OR Zucchini (summer squash and zucchini can cross)

What a difference 150 years makes.

Happy Sesquicentennial, Russellville!

Once you decide which plants to save seed from, you want the fruit to fully ripen. In the case of peppers, for example, they will turn red. Cucumbers will turn yellow or orange. Okra, beans, and peas will turn brown and dry out. From there you can extract the seed and dry them out in a cool area.

In the case of tomatoes and cucumbers, place the seeds in a jar of water and let them sit for a day or two. Skim the scum off the top and fill again. Viable seeds will sink; non-viable ones will float. Take the viable seeds and spread out to dry as you did the others.

Once the seeds are completely dry, save them in a cool and dry location until you’re ready to plant next season.

If you’ve never tried seed saving, this is the year to start. At the very least, you’ll begin your own history and you’ll have your own stories to pass down with plants you grow year after year.

Just think: what if that history started with seeds you saved during the historical year of 2020? Now, that sounds like a story for the seed saving history books. l

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

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Story by T.L. SIMPSON

A JOURNAL of our RURAL & NATURAL HERITAGE

There and back again I OFTEN THINK OF MYSELF AS BILBO BAGGINS from J.R.R. Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings, and Russellville as The Shire.

In Tolkien’s fantasy novel, the Shire represents home. It represents the way things should be -- at least in Tolkien’s mind.

Tolkien wasn’t the biggest fan of the industrial machine. He was against building a straighter road when a gravel one through the country did more good for the soul.

And so you have The Shire — a place where things change slowly, “if they ever change at all.” And you also have the orcs, who burn down trees and burn fires in furnaces to ignite the war machine.

It makes sense. Tolkien fought in World War 1. He saw exactly the kind of damage the wrong sort of industry could bring.

The Shire is a land of hobbits, untouched by the politics or struggles of the world. And yet, through his adventures

and experiences with The One Ring, although he loves it very much, Bilbo finds he does not quite belong among the simple folk of The Shire. He adores the land, and he adores its people. And yet...he does not quite fit in. ”I want to see mountains again,” he tells his friend, the wizard Gandalf. And so often, I feel the same way. I love this place. And yet I wonder whether I truly belong here.

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It’s the same thing every day. The routine. The same rugged asphalt thudding against my feet.

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~

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And yet...

There’s a creek along the right and lefthand side filled with minnows and crawdads. Sometimes, you can see the gnarled shell of a snapping turtle darting through the water.

The trees overhead sway in the wind or and glimmer gold in the sunlight.

Neighbors wave. Cars give me a wide berth.

It’s the same, but I’m rooted here. Running. And running. And running.

Russellville isn’t as quaint as you might think. It’s no “Shire” by any true metric.

Believe me, I know. I covered crime in the area for several years. Three days per week I sat in court and wrote about drug busts, murders and other unspeakable crimes that happened in our area.

But I still feel safe within its limits if for no other reason than it’s familiar. And I think that’s what Tolkien’s Shire is all about. Time and life may destine you to leave this place, to scale mountains and battle dragons, and your personal growth may depend on it, but Russellville is the good thing worth remembering. Places like this are what we fight for.

Blink and a place like Fayetteville or Conway will evolve around you. But Russellville? “The L” is the same as it was when I was 12. The roads connecting with it are the same, and the roads beyond that also seem untouched by time.

For me, Russellville is the place you can always return, and it’s always there, and it’s always comforting.

For me, it will always be, “There and Back Again.” l

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COMMUNITY LEADERS

...

Mayor

Richard HARRIS

AGE: 60 OCCUPATION: Mayor of the City of

Russellville YEARS IN THE RIVER VALLEY: Since 1982.

FAMILY: Lisa Harris, three grown

children.

1

What is your favorite book and why?

In the Heart of the Sea: The Tragedy of the Whaleship Essex by Nathaniel Philbrick. It is an incredible nonfiction recount of the loss of the whaler Essex in the Pacific Ocean in 1820 and is the precursor to the literary classic, Moby Dick. The book narrates the crew’s struggle for survival after a vicious attack by a sperm whale that leaves them stranded. I like this book because it captures the rawness of human nature and shows the crew’s physical and mental battle against their dire situation.

2

Dog or cat? Why?

II am more of a dog person if I had to pick one. Growing up, we had guard dogs and hunting dogs. Now, I tend to gravitate towards dogs because of their loyalty to their owners. Dogs help our society in so many different ways from being sight dogs to K9 police dogs. My kids all have dogs and they bring pets with them whenever they visit.

3

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

The River Valley is one of the most beautiful places in all of Arkansas. We have natural beauty that is hard to find these days. We have rivers, streams, mountains, trails, and is home to an amazing community.

Photo by LIZ CHRISMAN 60

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~

SEPTEMBER 2020

4

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

This question is a challenge because I feel that I am open book. However, I guess most people do not know that all three of my children are adopted. My wife and I have been blessed to have raised and provide a loving and caring environment our children. I am very proud of all my kids.

5

What is your favorite music genre and artist? Why?

I am a big country fan. I grew up listening to country music and I always have it playing on my radio. A few of my favorite are old school artist like Johnny Cash, Merle Haggard and Conway Twitty.

6

it would be golf. I spend a lot of my free time playing golf and watching golf. I have traveled to watch tournaments and even have my favorite golfers that I follow. It is a relaxing pastime for me.

7

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

More opportunity in our city for young adults to work and raise their children.

The current economic climate makes it difficult at this time to recruit any business, much less high tech industry. However, we as a community, by continuing to work towards making our city more progressive in appearance and improving the quality of life aspects can provide incentive for businesses to grow and relocate to the River Valley.

What do you nerd out on?

I don’t really “nerd out” on anything. If I had to pick something

8

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

Mount Nebo at Sunset Point is one of the most beautiful views in all of Arkansas. From that point you will see the most amazing sunset. I suggest packing a picnic and eating while watching the sun set.

9

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

I love a good greasy cheeseburger. However, the older I get, the less often I can have one.

10

What is your favorite quote?

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

Psalms 90:2, “Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the whole world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God.”

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

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Hard Rock Construction Davis Neurology Denali Water Solutions

Roy's Heating & Cooling Newton's Pharmacy

Anderson Insurance

Landmark CPAs

Bill & Judy Galloway

Boyd Osborne Realtor Group

Rockline Industries

Centennial Bank

City Corporation

State Farm - Matt McCoy

First Security Bank

Brown & Brown Insurance

Arvest

The Nicholson Group

Suzanne Alford Hodges

Mike & Joy Miller

We would also like to extend our thanks to our 2019 Sponsors: Landmark CPAs

American Homes

ABOUT Magazine

Streett Law Firm

Russellville Tourism & Visitor's Center

Legends Resort & Casino

Rockline Industries

Cunningham Metal

Bank of England

State Farm - Matt McCoy

Mr. and Mrs. Ron Knost

St Mary's Regional Medical Center Little John Trucking Orr Auto Mall John G Harris Family Blackstone Construction First State Bank

Survival Flight

C & D Drug Store

Russellville Animal Clinic

Fat Daddy's Bar-B-Que

Joshua's Fine Jewelry

The Nicholson Group

Asurion

Mary & Richard Cohoon

Suzanne Alford Hodges

Sorrell's Body Shop

Peter's Family Living

Shinn Funeral Home

Roy's Heating & Cooling

Quick Service Cleaners

Susie Kroencke

Anderson Insurance

Bill & Judy Galloway

Boyd Osborne Realtor Group

Pina Gonzalo Landscaping

Will & Laura Wetzel - Moore & Company Realtors

City Corporation

Arvest

479-967-1437 | 320 W. C Street

www.mainstreetrussellville.com

Looking for something to do?

RUSSELLVILLE TOURISM & VISITORS CENTER

479-967-1762 | www.discoverrussellville.org

A Legacy of Quality Care Here...�r· At Saint Mary's, we think your family's health is one of the most important things in the world. That's why we are committed to being here, for you. Our expansive network, including our leading physicians, advanced health care providers, state-of-the-art tech­ nologies, and wellness services, is dedicated to one thing - your best health.

As a neighbor and partner for comprehensive primary, specialty, and acute critical care, Saint Mary's has proudly served this community since 1925. We look forward to continued service in the years to come, and ask that you join us in celebrating our city's 150th birthday. Together, let's grow a healthy Russellville, and a healthy Arkansas River Valley.

Making Communities Healthier ®

REGIONAL HEALTH SYSTEM

1808 West Main Street I Russellville, AR I 479.968.2841 I saintmarysregional.com I facebook.com/saintmarysregional